Odovtos - International Journal of Dental Sciences
Odovtos – International Journal of Dental Sciences (Odovtos-Int J Dent Sc) is the official scientific publication of the Faculty of Dentistry, University of Costa Rica. The main objective of this peer-reviewed journal is to disseminate original and transcendental knowledge in the field of dentistry and its specialties. Odovtos-Int J Dent Sc primary readership consists of dentists, dental educators, academics, dental students, researchers, health professionals and general public interested in expanding their knowledge in the area. Our journal consider unpublished and original manuscripts in ENGLISH with a prominent focus on critical and innovative data, promoting major clinical, academic and scientific research, based on International Committee of Medical Journal Editors (ICMJE) recommendations. Odovtos - Int J Dent Sc offers Online-First publication, allowing frequent dissemination of its content. You can access our Journal Normalized Citation Impact and Citation Impact in InCites-Clarivate: Incites - Clarivate Citation Impact 2025 JCR Impact Factor list of Clarivate Analytics: 0.9 Qualis 3 SCOPUS WHY SUBMIT YOUR PAPER TO OUR JOURNAL? Odovtos – International Journal of Dental Sciences compromises to disseminate their contents worldwide, through collaborations with several Dental Schools, online databases, index and repositories, website, social media, among others. All submitted manuscripts are peer-reviewed based solely on the criteria of quality, innovation and pertinence. The pre-publication process is brief due to online submission. Moreover, Odovtos-Int. J. Dent. Sc. is an Online-First Journal, which allows frequent publication in Internet according to Open Access Initiative, favoring the diffusion of its content. Journal indexed: ODOVTOS is indexed in Clarivate Analytics with a 2025 JCR Impact Factor list of Clarivate Analytics: 0.9 <a href="https://www.scimagojr.com/journalsearch.php?q=21101088429&tip=sid&clean=0#:~:text=%3Ca%20href%3D%22https%3A//www.scimagojr.com/journalsearch.php%3Fq%3D21101088429%26amp%3Btip%3Dsid%26amp%3Bexact%3Dno%22%20title%3D%22SCImago%20Journal%20%26amp%3B%20Country%20Rank%22%3E%3Cimg%20border%3D%220%22%20src%3D%22https%3A//www.scimagojr.com/journal_img.php%3Fid%3D21101088429%22%20alt%3D%22SCImago%20Journal%20%26amp%3B%20Country%20Rank%22%20%20/%3E%3C/a%3E"> Our journal is also indexed in: Scopus SCIELO REDALYC LATINDEX LILACS DIALNET ESCI-CLARIVATE ANALYTICS REDIB PERIODICA ICJME MIAR ROAD BIBLAT EUROPUB EBSCO PROQUEST ULRICHS COPAC PKP INDEX JOURNAL TOCS DRJI DAIJ J-GATE INDEX COPERNICUS
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Effect of Different Dentin Desensitizing Agents on Bond Strength and Dentin Morphology in Eroded Cervical Dentin
This study evaluates the effect of different dentin desensitizing agents on the bond strength of a universal adhesive system applied using the self-etch strategy to eroded cervical dentin, as well as their impact on dentin morphology. A total of 100 bovine teeth were sectioned, and standardized dentin specimens were obtained. Erosion was simulated with hydrochloric acid and a daily acid/abrasive challenge using orange juice and abrasive toothpaste for 7 days. Five groups (n=20) were formed according to the desensitizing agent applied: Clinpro White Varnish (sodium fluoride/tricalcium phosphate varnish; 3M), MI Varnish (CPP-ACP/sodium fluoride varnish; GC), Fluor Protector (fluorosilane varnish; Ivoclar), Shield Force Plus (light-cured resin-based desensitizer; Tokuyama), and Desensibilize KF 2% (potassium nitrate/sodium fluoride gel; FGM; active control). Half of the specimens were analyzed via scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to evaluate precipitate formation and the percentage of open dentinal tubules. The remaining samples underwent microtensile bond strength (μTBS) testing with a universal adhesive. Data were analyzed using ANOVA, Kruskal-Wallis, and respective post-hoc tests (α=5%). The active control showed the highest overall bond strength (55.85±2.85 MPa), whereas Clinpro showed the highest bond strength among the tested desensitizing agents (51.80±3.69 MPa). MI Varnish presented the lowest bond strength (36.89±2.03 MPa) (p<0.05). Fluor Protector significantly reduced the percentage of open dentinal tubules compared with MI Varnish (p<0.05). Despite the higher descriptive prevalence of surface precipitate scores observed with MI Varnish, Fluor Protector, and Shield Force Plus, no significant improvement in adhesion was observed. The findings highlight the importance of selecting dentin desensitizing agents that ensure both substrate protection and adequate bonding to eroded dentin.
Dentin; Dental adhesives; Tooth erosion; Varnishes; Scanning electron microscopy.
Copyright (c) 2026 Jaime Barcena-Taco, César A. Lea-Condori, Diana D. Pumahualcca-Coila, Jorge A. Borda Bizaga, Gabriela M. Castro-Núñez, Wilfredo G. Escalante-Otárola. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Effectiveness of Chatbot-Assisted Learning in Real Dental Student Cohorts: A Systematic Review, Exploratory Meta-analysis, and Functional Narrative Synthesis
Artificial intelligence chatbots are increasingly being incorporated into dental education, but their effectiveness in real student cohorts remains uncertain. This systematic review, meta-analysis, and functional narrative synthesis evaluated the educational impact of chatbot-assisted learning interventions in dental students, focusing on student performance, self-efficacy, and domain-specific applications. A systematic search of PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Embase was conducted for studies published up to May 2026. Eligible studies included real dental students exposed to chatbot-assisted educational interventions and assessed using explicit comparators or meaningful pre-post designs. Risk of bias was assessed with RoB 2.0 and the JBI checklist, and certainty of evidence was evaluated using GRADE. Eight studies involving 716 undergraduate dental students were included in the qualitative synthesis, and two studies were included in an exploratory meta-analysis. The pooled estimate favored chatbot-assisted learning over comparator conditions for overall student educational performance (SMD=0.62, 95% CI: 0.37 to 0.87; I²=0%), although this finding should be interpreted cautiously because only two studies were pooled and they assessed different manifestations of educational performance. Certainty of evidence was low. Functional narrative synthesis identified four educational domains: knowledge acquisition and academic performance; clinical reasoning and diagnostic communication; operative and procedural skill support; and academic writing, evidence handling, and reflective tasks. Chatbot-assisted learning appears promising, but current evidence remains limited, heterogeneous, and context-dependent.
Chatbot-assisted learning; Dental education; Artificial intelligence in dentistry; Systematic review; Meta-analysis.
Copyright (c) 2026 Eliana Pineda-Vélez, Diego Villada-Osorio, Carlos M. Ardila. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Evaluation of the Quality and Reliability of Gingival Recession-Related Content on YouTube and TikTok
This study evaluated the quality and reliability of information about gingival recession on YouTube and TikTok, and compared videos across platforms. Videos uploaded between December 2017 and December 2022 were searched and screened on January 13, 2023, yielding 1,882 videos of which 248 met the inclusion criteria (YouTube: 175, TikTok: 73). Videos were assessed for scientific credibility, information quality, and popularity using the Global Quality Scale (GQS), DISCERN, and JAMA benchmarks. Visual content richness, duration, likes, dislikes, views, sources, and video types were also recorded. Overall, the information quality was low to medium. YouTube videos had higher GQS (2.55) and DISCERN (1.88) scores than TikTok videos (1.92; 1.42) (p<0.05). Periodontologist videos showed significantly better visual content richness on YouTube (p<0.001), while no difference was observed on TikTok (p=0.111). TikTok videos had higher view rates (440.5 vs. 174.9; p<0.05), but YouTube videos were longer (p<0.001). Across both platforms, specialist-uploaded videos achieved significantly higher GQS and DISCERN scores than other sources (p<0.005). YouTube and TikTok provide accessible but overall low to medium-quality information on gingival recession, with frequent unreliability regarding causes and treatment. Patients should be encouraged to approach such content critically and prioritize information from verified professional sources.
Gingival recession; Discern; Global quality scale; Social media; Youtube; Tiktok.
Copyright (c) 2026 Omercan Aktar, Sadiye Gunpınar, Demet Sahin Aksoy. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Deep Learning-Based Tooth Localization and Abnormality Detection on Panoramic Radiographs
Automated analysis of panoramic radiographs remains challenging due to anatomical complexity and image variability. While deep learning has shown strong performance in dental imaging, most studies focus on isolated tasks. This study aimed to propose a hierarchical YOLOv8-based framework aligned for comprehensive analysis of panoramic radiographs using structured dental annotations. A three-stage deep learning pipeline based on YOLOv8 was developed using the DENTEX dataset. The framework includes (1) quadrant classification, (2) tooth enumeration (FDI 11-48), and (3) tooth-level abnormality detection using a two-stage approach (binary screening followed by subtype classification). Panoramic radiographs with hierarchical annotations were used, with an 80:20 train–validation split. Performance was evaluated using mAP50, mAP50-95, precision, recall, and F1-score. The model achieved near-perfect performance for quadrant classification (mAP50=0.994, mAP50-95=0.750, precision=0.994, recall=0.995, and F1=0.994) and strong performance for tooth enumeration (mAP50=0.936, mAP50-95=0.536, precision=0.902, recall=0.897, and F1=0.899). Abnormality detection showed moderate performance (mAP50=0.687, mAP50-95=0.480, precision=0.655, recall=0.742, and F1=0.696). At the class level, impacted teeth (F1=0.904) and caries (F1=0.885) were well detected, whereas periapical lesions (F1=0.568) and deep caries (F1=0.585) showed lower performance. Precision and recall were balanced across tasks. The proposed hierarchical framework enables anatomical localization and integration of detection tasks of panoramic radiographs within a unified pipeline using YOLOv8. While performance is near-ceiling for anatomical tasks, disease detection remains challenging, particularly for low-contrast lesions.
Panoramic radiographs; Hierarchical framework; YOLO.
Copyright (c) 2026 Tung Hoang Pharm, Young-Seok Park, Khoa Van Pham, Huong Thu Vu, Khanh Hung Nguyen, Soyeon Kim, Van Mai Truong. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Ectopic Pleomorphic Adenoma of the Cervical Region: Case Report with Integrated Clinical, Radiologic, and Embryologic Insights
Pleomorphic adenoma (PA) is the most common benign salivary gland neoplasm. Its development in ectopic salivary tissue of the lateral neck is exceptionally uncommon, clinically deceptive, and carries a low but documented potential for malignant transformation. Understanding the embryologic basis of cervical salivary heterotopia is essential for accurate diagnosis. A 54-year-old male presented with a painless, slowly enlarging, left lateral cervical mass. Imaging and preoperative fine-needle aspiration cytology suggested a benign salivary-type neoplasm. Complete surgical excision of the mass with an intact capsule was performed. Final histopathology and immunohistochemistry confirmed the diagnosis of pleomorphic adenoma arising in heterotopic salivary tissue, with no continuity to the major salivary glands. No recurrence was detected at 12- month follow-up. Ectopic PA should be considered in the differential diagnosis of left lateral cervical masses. Complete excision and long-term surveillance are recommended because of the risk of late recurrence and malignant transformation. Embryological and molecular insights into its pathogenesis are also provided.
Pleomorphic adenoma; Lateral cervical mass; Head and neck pathology.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ernesto Bruno, Fabio Luciani, Pietro Tatangelo, Bora Kerpi, Carla Sgroi, Ermal Pashaj, Filadelfo Coniglione, Tommaso Perretta, Erina Alushi. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Influence of Commercial Toothpastes on Surface Roughness and Color Stability of a 3D-Printed Resin: A Pilot In Vitro Study
This pilot in vitro study evaluated the effect of different commercial toothpastes containing hydroxyapatite, activated charcoal, or conventional abrasive systems on the surface roughness and color stability of a 3D-printed resin material. Disc-shaped specimens were fabricated and subjected to simulated toothbrushing using toothpaste slurries for a standardized number of cycles. Surface roughness was assessed using a contact profilometer, and color changes were measured spectrophotometrically. Data were analyzed using non-parametric statistical tests with a significance level of 0.05. Toothpaste composition significantly influenced both surface roughness and color stability. The highest roughness values were observed in the activated charcoal group, whereas the lowest color change values were detected in the Be You group. Under the conditions of this pilot study, Be You, a hydroxyapatite-containing toothpaste, showed more favorable optical behavior, while hydroxyapatite-containing products did not show a uniform response across all outcomes. These findings indicate that the abrasivity and composition of commercial toothpastes may influence the surface integrity and optical performance of 3D-printed resin materials. However, these results should be interpreted as preliminary and confirmed in future studies with larger sample sizes.
Hydroxyapatite; Toothpastes; Surface properties; Color stability; Dental materials.
Copyright (c) 2026 Daniela Carrill, Carlos Molina, Carlos López-López, Cristian Sánchez, Wilfredo Gustavo Escalante-Otárola. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Fracture Resistance of CAD-CAM Interim Crowns Fabricated by Additive Versus Subtractive Manufacturing: An In Vitro Study
Additive manufacturing has gained increasing popularity for the fabrication of interim restorations because of its efficiency, reduced material waste, and workflow flexibility. However, concerns remain regarding the mechanical reliability of additively manufactured materials compared with CAD-CAM-milled restorations. This in vitro study compared the fracture resistance of interim crowns fabricated by additive manufacturing and CAD-CAM milling. Twenty standardized interim crowns were digitally designed and distributed into two groups according to the manufacturing technique (n=10): additively manufactured crowns fabricated with a ceramic-filled nanohybrid resin using LCD technology, and CAD-CAM-milled crowns fabricated from prepolymerized polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) blocks. Fracture resistance was evaluated under compressive loading using a universal testing machine at a crosshead speed of 1 mm/min until failure. Data were analyzed with the Shapiro-Wilk test and independent t test (α=.05). CAD-CAM-milled crowns demonstrated significantly higher fracture resistance than additively manufactured crowns, with mean values of 439.1±24.0 kgf (4306±235 N) and 244.7±34.9 kgf (2399±342 N), respectively. The findings suggest that the manufacturing technique significantly influences the mechanical performance of interim restorations, with CAD-CAM-milled PMMA crowns exhibiting greater resistance to compressive loading under the conditions evaluated.
Computer-aided design; Printing, three-dimensional; Fracture resistance; Dental materials.
Copyright (c) 2026 Leonard Walter Huamani Diaz, Kelly Romero, Ricardo Fabian Reyes Mansilla, Iliana Linares, Consuelo Marroquín-Soto, César-Augusto Padilla-Avalos. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Evaluation of Cellular Response to 3D-Printed Scaffolds Based on Polyhedral Geometries: Icosahedron, Dodecahedron, and Truncated Icosahedron
Tissue engineering has increasingly focused on developing scaffolds capable of providing structural support while promoting cell adhesion and distribution on the scaffold surface, thereby supporting tissue regeneration. In this study, polyhedral-based scaffolds with dodecahedron, icosahedron, and truncated icosahedron geometries were designed and fabricated from polylactic acid (PLA) using fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printing. The morphology and pore size of the scaffolds were characterized using optical microscopy, and their mechanical behavior was evaluated through uniaxial compression tests in flat and vertical orientations. Human gingival fibroblasts (HGF) were cultured on the scaffolds to evaluate cell proliferation using WST-1 assays after 1, 3, and 7 days, as well as cell morphology and distribution by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and fluorescence microscopy after 24 h. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Tukey’s post hoc test (p<0.05). The results demonstrated that the scaffold geometry and loading orientation significantly influenced the mechanical behavior of the printed structures. The vertically oriented icosahedron scaffold exhibited the highest compressive strength (378.45±0.09 MPa), whereas the truncated icosahedron exhibited the highest elastic modulus (147.07±2.13 MPa). HGF proliferation remained comparable to that of the tissue culture plate control over the evaluated time periods. SEM and fluorescence microscopy revealed cell adhesion and distribution on all scaffold surfaces, although differences in cell organization were observed depending on the scaffold geometry. The results indicate that polyhedral architectures influence both the mechanical properties and cellular response of 3D-printed PLA scaffolds.
Tissue engineering; Scaffolds; Mechanical properties; 3D-printing; Polyhedron; Cellular response.
Copyright (c) 2026 Iriczalli Cruz-Maya, Rafael Álvarez-Chimal, Janeth Serrano-Bello, Jesús Ángel Arenas-Alatorre, Marco Antonio Álvarez-Pérez. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Skull Base Comparisons in Individuals with Cleft Lip and Palate, and Class I-III Skeletal Malocclusions
The morphology of the skull base and its variations cause multiple alterations not only in the pharyngeal space but also in respiratory function, masticatory force, and occlusal relationships. The objective was to compare the morphology of the cranial base in individuals with no syndromic cleft lip and palate (CLP) with that of control subjects with Class I and III skeletal malocclusion. Retrospective cross-sectional study based on digital lateral skull radiographs. Subjects were classified as having unilateral CLP (UCLP) or bilateral CLP (BCLP). Comparisons were made with Class I and III skeletal malocclusion. Triangular areas were estimated algebraically. Intra and interrater correlations were high (Spearman’s rho >0.98). Nonparametric statistical tests were used in addition to ANCOVA and MANCOVA models. A total of 238 individuals were included: 80 with Class I malocclusion, 80 with Class III malocclusion, and 78 with CLP (31 BCLP and 47 UCLP). Of the total, 41.59% (n=99) were women. Comparisons of the measured lengths and angles revealed significant differences between groups. As age increased, the length of the anterior (NS) and posterior (SBa) cranial bases increased, with differences between age ranges. Likewise, a shorter cranial base length and a larger cranial base angle (NSBa) were observed in the CLP group compared with the others. The results of this study identified significant differences in cranial base measurements between individuals with CLP and those with Class I and III malocclusions.
Cleft Lip; Cleft palate; Malocclusion; Skull Base; Dental anomaly; (MeSH).
Copyright (c) 2026 Salomón Yezioro-Rubinsky, Jaime Moreno-Chaparro, Julián Ruiz Pineda, Lina Escobar Márquez, Javier H. Eslava-Schmalbach. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Bridging Developmental Biology and Regenerative Endodontics: Postnatal Rat Tooth Germ as A Model for Root Dentinogenesis
Regenerative endodontic treatment (RET) aims to promote continued root maturation and restoration of the pulp–dentin complex through tissue-engineering principles. However, conventional infection-based experimental models introduce inflammatory and microbial confounders that may obscure the intrinsic mechanisms of physiological root dentinogenesis. This narrative review evaluates postnatal day 7-19 rat mandibular first molar root tooth germ as a biologically defined developmental model for mechanistic RET research. The literature was searched in PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science using predefined developmental, molecular and regenerative endodontic keywords. Studies addressing root development, Hertwig’s epithelial root sheath (HERS), odontoblast differentiation, dentin matrix protein expression, stem cells of the apical papilla (SCAPs) and inflammatory effects on odontogenic signaling were included. Evidence indicates that the P7-P19 developmental window encompasses sequential HERS elongation, odontoblast differentiation, predentin secretion, dentin mineralization and an early cementogenesis. The model also preserves physiological signaling pathways, including Wnt/β-catenin, BMP and TGF-β networks without the confounding influence of lipopolysaccharide-induced NF-κB activation or matrix metalloproteinase-mediated extracellular matrix degradation. Although translational limitations between rodent and human biology remain, the reviewed evidence supports the value of this normal-tissue developmental model as a reproducible baseline for mechanistic studies in regenerative endodontics.
Rat tooth germ; Root dentinogenesis; Regenerative endodontic treatment; Hertwig's epithelial root sheath; Odontoblast differentiation; Postnatal molar development.
Copyright (c) 2026 Maryam Hameed Alwan, Jwan Arkan M. Saeed. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Strategy to Promote Scientific Publications in Dental Students
Copyright (c) 2025 Jorge H. Wilches-Visbal, Midian C. Castillo-Pedraza https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/
Employment Outlook for Newly Graduated Dentists in Colombia
Copyright (c) 2024 Cristian C. Morales-Lastre, Midian C. Castillo-Pedraza, Jorge H. Wilches-Visbal https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/
Effect of Prophylactic Treatments on Demineralized Dental Enamel
Although professional prophylaxis is beneficial in controlling dental biofilm, its effects on tooth surfaces with white spot lesions are still poorly understood. The objective of this study was to evaluate, in vitro, the effect of different methods used in dental prophylaxis on the mineral content of demineralized enamel surfaces, using quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF). Extracted sound premolars were used (n=40). The sample was made up of 4 groups: G1 - Robinson brush and pumice stone; G2 - Robinson brush and prophylactic paste; G3 - Rubber and pumice bowl; G4 - Rubber cup and prophylactic paste. The evaluations were carried out at 3 levels: with the tooth healthy, immediately after the demineralization process and after application of the proposed treatments. The primary variable analyzed was the mineral content of the enamel, quantified using QLF. The data did not meet the assumptions for parametric tests, so the Friedman variance test was applied using version 5.0 of the BioEstat program. The significance level adopted was 5%. In Group I, a statistically significant difference (p<0.001) was observed between the mineral content of the sound tooth and after demineralization, indicating a white spot formation, but no significant changes (p=0.082) post-treatment with a Robinson brush and pumice stone. Group II showed similar results. Group III exhibited significant changes (p<0.001) post-demineralization and improvement (p<0.001) with a rubber cup and pumice stone. Group IV also showed significant demineralization (p<0.001) and partial remineralization (p<0.001) with a rubber cup and prophylactic paste, indicating that these treatments can improve mineral content in demineralized enamel. In conclusion, treatments using a rubber cup with pumice stone or prophylactic paste resulted in partial remineralization of demineralized enamel, while treatments using a Robinson brush did not cause significant changes in mineral content.
Tooth enamel; Tooth demineralization; Dental prophylaxis.
Copyright (c) 2024 Fernanda Ferrari Esteves Torres, Aylton Valsecki Júnior, Luis Eduardo Genaro, Silvio Rocha Corrêa da Silva, Elaine Pereira da Silva Tagliaferro, Felipe Eduardo Pinotti, Fernanda Lopez Rosell https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/
Calibration Process for Diagnosing Dental Caries Using the DMFT Index
The DMFT index is an optimal tool for assessing dental caries experience over a person's lifetime, necessitating that examiners of these epidemiological indices be properly standardized through a rigorous process such as calibration. The objective of the study was to develop a calibration process for diagnosing dental caries using the DMFT index among three groups of dentists. A cross-sectional study conducted with a population of 15 dentists who volunteered to participate, organized into 3 groups based on their area of practice. The calibration process was conducted both virtually and in-person. Statistical analysis involved calculating validity and reliability values using the Kappa coefficient, with a confidence level of 95% and significance set at p<0.05. For photographic results, Kappa values ranged from 0.55 (p<0.001) to 0.91 (p<0.001) in the first process, and from 0.73 (<0.001) to 1.00 (<0.001) in the second process. For dental assessments, values ranged from 0.20 (p=0.090) to 0.81 (p<0.001) in the first stage, and from 0.31 (p=0.002) to 0.89 (p<0.001) in the second. Out of the initial 15 examiners, 46.67% (n=7) achieved "almost perfect agreement" and 20.00% (n=3) achieved "substantial agreement."
Public health dentistry; DMF index; Dental health surveys; Data collection; Calibration; Health status indicators.
Copyright (c) 2024 María Claudia Garcés-Elías, Anna Paola Fernández-Coll, Jorge A. Beltrán, Roberto A. León-Manco, Janett Mas-López https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/
Effect of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Educational Indicators in the Dentistry Career of the University of Costa Rica
This study aimed to determine the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the educational indicators of students who enrolled in the dentistry program at the University of Costa Rica between 2015 and 2021. Records of 522 students were analyzed, considering variables such as gender, age at entry, nationality, marital status, children, place and type of high school attended, and course performance. Information was extracted from the Student Applications System, physical records, and the Civil Registry of Costa Rica. Descriptive and bivariate analyses were performed to identify patterns and correlations between variables, and approval rates before and during the pandemic were evaluated. Seventy percent of the students were women, predominantly Costa Rican, aged between 19 and 23, from public high schools, and originating from the Greater Metropolitan Area. Terminal efficiency was zero due to the closure of clinical courses in 2020, which prevented the 2015 to 2017 cohorts from graduating within 12 semesters. The dropout rate was highest in the first and second semesters, with a progressive decrease in subsequent semesters. Most cohorts experienced delays, particularly in semesters 7-8 and 9-10. First-attempt approval rates increased in some service courses with virtualization during the pandemic, such as Intensive General Chemistry and Elementary Mathematics, but no difference was observed in the courses specific to the School of Dentistry. The COVID-19 pandemic had varying impacts on educational indicators, with virtualization improving performance in some theoretical courses while posing challenges in those with practical and clinical components.
COVID-19; Academic performance; Dentistry; Dental student; Virtual systems; Educational measurement.
Copyright (c) 2024 Natalia Gutiérrez-Marín, Adrián Gómez-Fernández, Cristina Castro-Sancho https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/
Importance of Assessing the Impact of Combined Lifestyle Factors Related to Periodontitis in Costa Ricans
Periodontal disease is an infectious and inflammatory disease, which is characterized by the destruction of tooth supporting tissues: root cementum, periodontal ligament and alveolar bone. Dental biofilm or plaque is the etiological risk factor for gum disease. There are a variety of risk factors that may contribute the onset and progression of periodontitis. Modifiable risk factors are habituated risk factors that can be changed by adjusting behavioral attitudes. These adjustments minimize the possibility of chronic disease occurrence. Thus, it becomes important, to identify individual modifiable factors such as lifestyle factors, which could influence the severity and higher risk of progression of periodontitis. Diet, physical activity, stress levels, sleep quality, smoking, and alcohol consumption, in relation to periodontal disease have been studied individually. Little is known about the combined effect of these health-related lifestyle patterns related to health and periodontal status. Studying the combination of lifestyle factors is recommended to establish an adequate management and treatment plan of patients with periodontitis. Costa Ricans present a unique pattern of sociodemographic, ethnic, cultural diversity, and lifestyle factors. Assessing these variables in different populations are a priority, to prevent and treat chronic diseases, such as periodontitis.
Alcohol; Diet; Health-related lifestyles; Lifestyle factors; Physical activity; Sleep quality; Smoking; Stress; Periodontitis.
Copyright (c) 2024 María Fernanda Rodríguez-Callaci, Karol Ramírez https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/
Medicinal Plants and their Potential Application in Health "Green Dentistry": A Literature Review
This study focuses on describing the potential use of medicinal plants in oral health. An electronic search was conducted in the PubMed and Scopus databases, limited to the last ten years. Key terms such as “phytodentistry”, “medicinal herbs”, “antimicrobials”, “dentistry”, “hygiene”, and “oral health” were used. In addition, a manual search was performed to verify the articles cited in the bibliographies of the initial documents and the websites of the corresponding journals were explored. The search strategy was specifically adapted for Scopus and PubMed. In this review, articles dealing with medicinal plants and their potential use in oral health were selected. The results of the reviewed studies were grouped into three main categories: plants with anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and healing properties. An overview of the main characteristics, materials used, and designs of the reviewed studies is provided. It was found that several medicinal plants, such as Aloe Vera, Turmeric, and Cocoa, have significant potential for use in oral health. These plants have proven to be effective in studies to improve oral health. However, further research is needed to confirm these findings and develop practical applications for their use in dentistry. This study underscores the importance of further exploring the potential of medicinal plants in promoting oral health.
Phytotherapy; Medicinal plants; Oral health; Review.
Copyright (c) 2024 Nayeli Lagos, María Bernal, Fran Espinoza-Carhuancho, Daniel Alvitez-Temoche, Franco Mauricio, Frank Mayta-Tovalino https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/
Effect of Epigenetic Inhibitors on Adipogenesis in Human Periodontal Ligament Stem Cells
Histone H3 lysine 9 acetylation is a crucial epigenetic mark in mesenchymal stem cell differentiation processes like adipogenesis. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of epigenetic inhibitors on adipogenesis in human periodontal ligament stem cells, using histone deacetylase inhibitors such as valproic acid and trichostatin A. The cells were treated independently with 8 mM valproic acid and 100 nM trichostatin A for 72 hours to inhibit class I histone deacetylases. Subsequently, the cells underwent adipogenic induction for 28 days. Morphology and intracellular lipid deposition were analyzed using Oil-Red oil staining. Protein extracts were prepared on days 0 and 28 to analyze histone H3 lysine 9 acetylation levels via Western blot. Our results demonstrated that cells treated with either VPA or TSA showed, on average, a 1.275-fold increase in lipid deposition during the adipogenic process, with no significant differences between the treatments compared to the control group. Further, by day 28, histone H3 lysine 9 acetylation levels were 1.43 times higher in cells treated with valproic acid and 2.52 times higher in those treated with trichostatin A.These findings suggest that the inhibitors could have differential effects on chromatin remodeling in different regions by increasing acetylation, contributing indistinctly to lipid deposition due to the greater expression of genes associated with the adipogenic phenotype.
Histone acetylation; Periodontal ligament; Stem cell; Valproic acid; Trichostatin A.
Copyright (c) 2024 Julio A. Montero-Del-Toro, Angelica A. Serralta-Interian, Geovanny I. Nic-Can, Rafael Rojas-Herrera, Leydi M. Carrillo-Cocom, Beatriz A. Rodas-Junco https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/
Comparison of Surface Microhardness of Portland Cement Associated with Niobium Oxide and Zirconium Nanoparticles with the Mineral Aggregate Trioxide
To determine the surface microhardness of white portland cement associated with niobium nanoparticles, white portland cement associated with zirconium nanoparticles, and mineral trioxide aggregate. The present study is an experimental in-vitro study. The sample consisted of 03 study groups. These were divided into 09 subgroups of 04 hours, 14 days and 28 days. The instrument used to record the surface mechanical microhardness was the Vickers microdurometer. The Shapiro-Wilk statistical analysis was then performed to identify the normality of the data. The Anova test was applied to compare between the three groups and then the Tukey test for multiple comparisons with a 95% confidence level. White Portland cement associated with zirconium nanoparticles had the highest hardness value (p<0.05), followed by white Portland cement associated with niobium nanoparticles and aggregate control cement of mineral trioxide. The lowest value of surface microhardness was obtained by the addition of mineral trioxide (p<0.05). Surface microhardness values were significantly higher at 28 days than at 04 hours for all groups evaluated. White Portland cement with/without nanoparticulate additives generated higher surface microhardness than the control group added mineral trioxide in the evaluation periods.
Surface microhardness; Compressive strength; MTA; Calcium silicate; Nanoparticles; Portland cement.
Copyright (c) 2024 Angel Eduardo Pinedo Saldaña, Carmen Rosa García Rupaya https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/
Scientometric Analysis of Activated Carbon or Probiotics in Mouthwashes or Toothpastes: Dynamicity, Spatiotemporal Evolution and Trends
The use of activated charcoal and probiotics is a controversial topic nowadays due to their potential oral health benefits. Thus, the aim of this research was to perform a scientometric analysis of activated charcoal or probiotics in mouthwashes or dentifrices by means of dynamicity, spatiotemporal evolution, and trends. A study was carried out to look back at scientific publications between 2005 and 2022 using the Web of Science. To analyze the data, various bibliometric indicators were used. The process of retrieving information was completed on July 28, 2023. It was found that only 1 article was published in 1990. Furthermore, the highest co-citation occurred in cluster 9 (Dentistry, Dermatology, Surgery), indicating a higher relevance and frequency with cluster 8 (Molecular Biology, Genetics). In the cluster view, 15 large clusters were identified, with cluster 0 (Activated Carbon) being the largest and occupying the greatest centrality. On the other hand, the cross-country collaboration map showed active collaborations between Australia and New Zealand, Brazil, and Canada. We found a significant growth of scientific publications on probiotics and activated charcoal in the field of dentistry and related disciplines between 1990 and 2023.
Activated carbon; Probiotics; Scientometrics; Web of science.
Copyright (c) 2024 Franco Mauricio, Cesar Mauricio-Vilchez, Diego Galarza-Valencia, Daniel Alvitez-Temoche, Luzmila Vilchez, Fran Espinoza-Carhuancho, Frank Mayta-Tovalino https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/
Intraoral and Extraoral Scanning Technologies in the Digital Workflow Era: An Integrative Review with Artificial Intelligence
The aim of this integrative review is to investigate the possibility of aligning three-dimensional intraoral scanner data with facial mobile device data, as well as comparing the effectiveness of AI-based search with manual search methods. This investigation adhered to the PRISMA guidelines aiming to answer the PICO question: “Does the facial and intraoral three-dimensional technologies are compatible and clinically applicable in oral rehabilitation?”. Was employed a search strategy incorporating specific keywords ("dental", "intraoral", "photogrammetry", "stereo photo", "scanner", "three-dimensional", "stereophotogrammetry", "scan", "virtual articulators", "facebow", "face", "facial") within multiple databases (Pubmed, BVS, and Scielo), including artificial intelligence (Scite.ai). Of the 7128 initially identified articles, 4 articles of manual search were included but none article of the artificial intelligence website were added. Among the most used: at the intraoral scanners were the TRIOS (3shape) (n=2) and for facial images the Apple Inc. cell phones (n=2). The most frequently reported software was Bellus3D (Bellus3D Inc.) with particular emphasis on the georeferencing tactic software. Several commonalities were observed, including the requirement for a 30cm spacing during cell phone-based extraoral scanning, the necessity for multiple captures, and the inclusion of landmarks and/or perioral and nasal scans. Manual searching is still the gold standard scientific searching data; Both stereophotogrammetry and mobile device scan can be used for facial scanning and the files can be integrated by utilizing georeferencing tactic software.
Three-dimensional imaging; Artificial intelligence; Dental articulator; Temporomandibular joint; Photogrammetry.
Copyright (c) 2024 Juliana Lujan Brunetto, Manuel Martin Adriazola Ique, Clovis Lamartine de Moraes Melo Neto, Victor Perinazzo Sachi, Daniela Micheline dos Santos, Marcelo Coelho Goiato https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/
Sodium Hypochlorite in Endodontic Therapy: Immutable Hero or Imminent Threat?
Historically, in its beginnings, sodium hypochlorite was only related to the bleaching of garments, however, over the years its use was extended to the medical area thanks to its disinfectant qualities, and its application continued in the field of dentistry, especially in endodontics, so much so that it has come to be considered today the gold standard in endodontic irrigation. This article aims to briefly highlight its importance in endodontics and the qualities that allow its continued use.
Sodium hypochlorite; Endodontics; Root canal irrigants; Disinfection; Antibacterial agent; Toxicity.
Copyright (c) 2024 Edgar García-Torres https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/
Factors Associated with the Perception of Prehospital Internship Training of Dental and Other Health Sciences Students in the COVID-19 Context
During the COVID-19 pandemic, pre-internship training of Health Sciences students took on an essential role. The shift to virtual practices and a project-based learning approach brought challenges, but also opened doors for adaptation and learning in a constantly evolving healthcare landscape. To determine the factors associated with the perception of Peruvian health sciences students during the period of isolation due to the COVID-19 pandemic regarding their training prior to hospital internship. A Cross-sectional analytical study was performed. Students from professional schools of health sciences who entered the hospital internship 2022 and students from the year prior to the internship from a Peruvian public university were evaluated. Data collection was performed with a 49-question questionnaire. Female participants were more prevalent with 384 (70.98%) students while the medical career had the highest participation with 152 respondents (28.1%) followed by the dental career with 134 (24.77%). In the adjusted logistic regression model no influence of associated factors on students' perception of their preparedness for hospital internship in the isolation period due to the COVID-19 pandemic was found. Peruvian Health Sciences students self-perceive themselves prepared for hospital internship in Comprehensive Care, Prevention, Collaboration and Self-Learning, but less so in Practical Skills, Understanding Science, Interpersonal Skills and Confidence.
COVID-19; Dental students; Medical education; Perception.
Copyright (c) 2024 Juan Alvitez, Luis Huarachi, Abigail Temoche, Miriam Rojas, Daniel Alvitez-Temoche, Frank Mayta-Tovalino https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/
Immunohistochemical and Clinicopathologic Correlation of DNA Methyltransferase 3A and (C-X-C motif) Ligand 1 in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
DNA methyl transferase 3A (DNMT3A) is an enzyme acting by adding a new methyl group to DNA favoring DNA silencing and carcinogenesis. Cytokines were said to assist epigenetic switch and enhance the activation of methyltransferases in many cancer types. The role of chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 1 (CXCL1) in cancer development was proved in many reports. In this study, we suggested that CXCL1 might induce activation of DNMT3A, affecting carcinogenesis of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Immunohistochemical (IHC) scoring was calculated and statistical correlation was performed to evaluate the expression of epithelial DNMT3A in addition to epithelial and mesenchymal CXCL1 in OSCC and normal mucosal samples. DNMT3A, epithelial, and mesenchymal CXCL1 revealed a statistically significant increase in immune scoring from normal mucosa and between different tumor grades, besides a significant relation of the expressions with tumor size, stage, and lymph node involvement. Pearson’s correlation detected a statistically significant correlation of DNMT3A with epithelial and mesenchymal CXCL1. Thus, CXCL1 overexpression may be associated with DNMT3A upregulation. DNMT3A, epithelial, and mesenchymal CXCL1 were associated with histological grades and advanced tumor characters suggesting them as reliable prognostic biomarkers in patients of OSCC.
Oral squamous cell carcinoma; DNA methyltransferase 3A; CXCL1; Immunohistochemistry; Tumor grading; Clinical characteristics.
Copyright (c) 2024 Basma Abdelrahman Ahmed, Mai Hafez Mohamed https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/
Preservation of Socket for Immediate Dental Implants in Aesthetic Zone from Upper Jaw: Aesthetic Approach-Case Report
Ensuring optimal aesthetic outcomes in dental implant cases within the maxillary anterior area requires careful consideration of socket preservation and atraumatic tooth extraction. These factors play a crucial role in achieving successful and aesthetically pleasing treatments. The objective of this study is to present a series of clinical cases involving dental extractions of anterior maxillary teeth with a poor prognosis. This study highlights the importance of socket preservation and atraumatic tooth extraction in ensuring optimal aesthetic results in dental implant cases within the maxillary anterior area. In these cases, a two-armed lever technique was planned for atraumatic alveolar preservation during the extraction process.Following the tooth extraction, the fresh socket was reclassified, and dental implants were subsequently placed using a modified drilling technique in certain cases. The authors assessed the primary stability of the implants, while in other cases, bone regeneration procedures were performed. The presented clinical cases demonstrate the successful implementation of the two-armed lever technique for atraumatic alveolar preservation, leading to favorable outcomes in terms of primary implant stability and bone preservation. Techniques for bone preservation after tooth extraction aim to minimize post-extraction bone resorption. By implementing appropriate protocols, such as the concept of the dual zone and the two-armed lever technique, successful outcomes can be achieved in terms of both aesthetics and preservation of the alveolar bone.
Atraumatic extraction; Two armed-lever; Allografts; Socket; Preservation; Dual zone
Copyright (c) 2024 Juliana Colorado-Zuluaga, Eilien Tovío-Martínez , Samuel Urbano-del-Valle https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/
Genetic Analysis of TPM1 Gene Polymorphism (rs11071720) in Patients with Non-Syndromic Cleft Lip/Palate in the South Indian Population. A Case Control Study
The aim of this study was to find out if there was an association between TPM1 gene polymorphism (rs11071720) and non-syndromic cleft lip and palate in humans. Twenty five patients with non-syndromic cleft lip and palate (NSCL/P) and twenty five healthy patients as controls were enrolled in the study. Whole blood drawn from the participants was used to obtain genomic DNA. Sequence specific primers were used to amplify the region spanning the polymorphic site of the TPM1 gene using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The genotype of the subjects was identified employing the RFLP technique. The genotype and allele frequency distributions in the non-syndromic cleft lip and cleft palate patients and control groups were compared using Chi-square test. In the NSCL/P, the genotype in the order from highest to lowest frequency was TC (48%), followed by CC (32%) and TT (20%). Although the genotype frequency of the case and the control groups were found to be in agreement with Hardy Weinberg Equilibrium, the genotype frequencies TC, CC and TT of the polymorphism (rs11071720) among the two groups were not statistically significant which was evident from the p-value 0.8472. No significant association was found between TPM1 gene (rs11071720) polymorphism and NSCL/P.
Polymorphism; TPM1 gene; Non-syndromic cleft lip and cleft palate; Genetic disorder.
Copyright (c) 2024 Dhakshinya Murugesan, A. Sumathi Felicita, Vijayashree Priyadharshini Jayaseelan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/
The use of thyroid shielding and lead apron in dentistry. Position Statement from the Costa Rican Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology
Copyright (c) 2024 Deivi Cascante-Sequeira, Lucía Barba Ramírez, Ana Cecilia Ruiz-Imbert https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/
Current Perspective on Fiberglass Posts Length: Finite Element Study
The literature to date has not reported a clear consensus on the optimal length of fiberglass posts for efficient clinical performance when restoring endodontically treated maxillary incisors with severe crown destruction. This study aimed to determine the stress distribution of fiberglass posts at different lengths using finite element analysis. Five 3D finite element models (groups A-E) were created, each representing a restoration system for endodontically treated maxillary central incisors. The models included post-core crowns with crown-root ratios of 1/3, 1/2, 2/3, 4/5, and 1/1. A static load of 100N force was applied to the palatal surface at 45º to the long axis of the tooth. Von Mises values and | maximum stresses in the crown, dentin, resin cement, and post-core were evaluated separately. The maximum stress experienced was A < C < B < E < D. Von Mises stresses were located in the upper and middle buccal thirds and in the apical palatal third of post A, as well as the upper and middle buccal thirds in posts B, C, D, and E. The lowest distribution of maximum and Von Mises stresses was observed in model A.
Finite element analysis; Maxillary central incisor; Endodontically treated teeth; Fiberglass post; Post length; Fracture resistance.
Copyright (c) 2024 Fredy Hugo Cruzado-Oliva; Alexander Vega-Anticona, David Arturo Ortiz-Diaz, Luisfelipe Carlos Alarco-Jurado, Heber Isac Arbildo-Vega https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/
Genotoxicity Evaluation of a Hyperosmotic Solution Proposed as Endodontic Irrigant
One of the main aims of a root-canal treatment is to disinfect the root-canal system through mechanical instrumentation and cleaning by endodontic disinfection solutions. The most common endodontic disinfection solution used has been the sodium hypochlorite. However, it has been reported some important biological adverse effects and risks related to it, so it is necessary to propose and evaluate alternatives to be used as an endodontic disinfection solution. Hyperosmotic solution based on sodium chloride and potassium sorbate previously has been shown an adequate antimicrobial effect against endodontic microorganisms in planktonic and biofilm forms. This study evaluated the genotoxicity of a hyperosmotic solution proposed as an endodontic disinfection solution. Human fibroblast cells were seeded and incubated into well-culture plates and exposed to the hyperosmotic solution (30% and 100%) and compared to NaClO 1%, after cells were cultured, an evaluation was performed by Micronucleus, Tunel and Mitotracker assays. Based on results, the hyperosmotic solution is a safe potential endodontic disinfection solution or adjuvant for root canal system disinfection.
Root-canal treatment; Root-canal system disinfection; Endodontic disinfection solution; Sodium hypochlorite; Hyperosmotic solution; Genotoxicity.
Copyright (c) 2024 Abraham Israel Muñoz-Ruiz, Corazón de María Martínez Figueroa, Amaury de Jesús Pozos-Guillén, Diana María Escobar-García, Jairo Mariel-Cárdenas, Francisco Javier Gutiérrez-Cantú, Ricardo Oliva-Rodríguez https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/
Cellular Response of Surface Functionalized Polymeric Fiber Mesh Coating Onto Dental Titanium Implants
The purpose of this in vitro study was to develop a polymeric nanofiber mesh coating for titanium implant surfaces and assess its contribution to the cellular response. Two types of dental implants TiUltraTM and TiUniteTM (Nobel Biocare) were coated with poly (lactic acid) nanofibers fabricated using the air-jet spinning technique (AJS). The morphology of the polymeric nanofibers was characterized by scanning electron micros­copy (SEM), and the biocompatibility was evaluated in terms of cell adhesion by using human fetal osteoblasts (hFOB). The cellular localization was observed under a fluorescent microscope, and the gene expression of Col 1, ALP, and OCN was evaluated by RT-PCR. The micrographs showed that the polymeric nanofiber coated the titaium (Ti) dental implant surfaces with a randomized deposition anchored between the depth of the threads, and well-interconnected pores were observed. Cell adhesion increased significantly (P<.05) more on the surfaces of Ti dental implants coated with the polymeric nanofiber mesh than on those not coated. After 21 days, the cell adhesion decreased significatively on the uncoated surfaces (P<.05). Col 1 and ALP genes showed a higher level of expression on dental implant surfaces coated with polymeric nanofibers mesh than on uncoated surfaces. Coating Ti dental implant surfaces with polymeric nanofiber mesh is a straightforward deposition technique for stimulating the cell response and improving the gene expression of osteogenic markers.
Nanofibers; Osteoblasts; Cell response; Titanium dental implant; Surface; Poly (lactic acid).
Copyright (c) 2024 Febe Carolina Vázquez-Vázquez, Jesús Arenas-Alatorre, Daniel Chavarría-Bolaños, Amaury Pozos-Guillén, Marco Antonio Alvárez-Pérez, Marine Ortiz-Magdaleno https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/