Aim This cross-sectional study aims to assess levels of antioxidants, including Superoxide Dismutase, Glutathione Peroxidase, Catalase, and Uric acid, in the saliva of patients with erythema multiforme. The saliva samples were collected during the active stage of the disease, approximately 2–4 days after lesion onset. Additionally, correlations were examined to assess differences in antioxidant levels between patients with recurrent episodes and those with a single episode of the disease. An independent t-test was utilized to compare controls with patients, and Pearson correlation analysis was performed for subgroup comparisons. Methods A total of 45 patients and 45 controls participated in the study. Saliva samples were collected to determine levels of the above antioxidants in both groups. The presence of typical target skin, in addition to a previous prodrome of moderate fever, is considered a diagnostic feature. The patient group was divided into two subgroups: the first subgroup included patients with recurrent EM episodes in the previous year, and the second subgroup included patients with a single episode. Results The calculated levels of all measured salivary antioxidants were lower in patients with erythema multiforme than in the control group, with a significant difference in catalase ( P -value < 0.05) and a highly significant difference in glutathione peroxidase, uric acid, and superoxide dismutase ( P -values < 0.001). The group of patients was further subdivided into those with a single episode of erythema multiforme and those with multiple episodes; the difference was insignificant for all measures except catalase, which was significantly lower in the multiple-episode subgroup ( P -value < 0.05). Discussion This study revealed an important difference in antioxidant levels between the control group and EM patients. Definitely, the salivary concentrations of SOD, GSH-Px, and UA in EM patients were particularly lower compared to those in the control group, suggesting that EM patients have a compromised antioxidant defense. Conclusion The salivary secretion of erythema multiforme patients demonstrated a modified antioxidant status, characterized by lower levels of these markers compared to those of healthy individuals. These findings reflect association rather than causation due to the cross-sectional design, and longitudinal validation is required. The difference in Catalase levels between the single-episode and multiple-episode erythema multiforme subgroups may reflect differences in oxidative-stress dynamics in recurrent disease, warranting further investigation.

Aim & Background Recent research has documented that new bone can form in and around the dental implants placed after maxillary sinus floor elevation (SFE) without the use of bone grafts. This article reviews the existing literature on the SFE technique without the use of bone grafts to determine the extent of research on this topic. The objectives of the study are to evaluate the vertical bone gain and implant survival rates associated with the technique. Materials and Methods A review was conducted by searching the relevant articles based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The main search engines were PubMed, Google Scholar, and Cochrane. We used special algorithms related to the keywords ‘maxillary sinus lift’ and ‘graftless’ to identify the randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that studied the effectiveness of the graftless SFE with respect to implant survival and vertical bone gain. We included only RCTs that studied the graftless sinus lift technique related to implant survival rates and vertical bone gain, including both direct and indirect approaches to graftless SFE, and studies with at least 6 months of follow-up. Only English-language articles were considered. We excluded non-randomized studies and studies that did not report implant survival rates and vertical bone gain. Results Out of 429 articles, only ten RCTs involving 209 participants satisfied the inclusion criteria. Increased implant survival rates were demonstrated with the graftless procedure, using both direct and indirect approaches. Significant effectiveness in terms of endosinus bone gain (ESBG) using the graftless SFE technique was reported. The results were comparable to SFE with graft placement. Discussion Traditional approaches for the maxillary sinus floor augmentation have utilised the use of bone grafts. Regardless of the high success documented with these techniques, the use of bone grafts has several limitations, such as prolonged operating time and disease transmission. Additionally, the risk of complications and failures is common. Consequently, the graft-free SFE appears to be a valid minimally invasive alternative. Using this approach, most of the complications can be prevented or eliminated. Therefore, understanding this technique is essential for optimizing dental implantology practices. Conclusion Graftless SFE may be a viable technique for maxillary sinus floor augmentation. The utility of this technique lies in mitigating the complications associated with the grafting materials, thereby reducing the morbidity of the procedure and the cost burden. Future research with large RCTs using standardised methods and outcome measures is required to provide more robust evidence on the utility of this technique.

Introduction Discoloration of endodontically treated teeth is an aesthetic concern. The primary causes include persistent pulpal tissue breakdown and the use of various irrigants. This study compared the effects of different endodontic irrigants on tooth color stability over time. Materials and Methods Eighty single-rooted human central incisors were allocated into eight groups ( G ): G1, G2, G3, G6, and G7 used sodium hypochlorite and silver-based compounds; G4 received Photodynamic Therapy (PDT); G5 received combined PDT and NaOCl; and G8 was treated with 0.9% normal saline. Tooth shade was assessed at baseline (T0), after 1 (T1), 7 (T2), 14 (T3), and 28 days (T4) using a spectrophotometer. Results At T1, G5 showed the least color change (ΔE), while G2 had the most ( p <0.05). By T2, G1 had lower ΔE values than G3 and G7 ( p <0.05). At T3, G5 showed the least ΔE changes compared to G2, G3, G6, and G7 ( p <0.05). Conversely, G7 had the highest ΔE compared to G1 and G4 ( p <0.05). At T4, G7, G6, G2, and G3 exhibited higher ΔE than G5, G4, G1, and G8 ( p <0.05). Discussion Silver-based irrigants caused significant darkening due to silver deposits in dentinal tubules and silver-protein precipitates. Sodium hypochlorite caused fewer changes due to its crystallization potential. Photodynamic therapy led to color changes above clinical thresholds, but its combination with NaOCl reduced discoloration to imperceptible levels. Silver-based irrigants should be used cautiously in anterior teeth due to their high staining potential. Conclusion Root canal irrigants induced varying degrees of tooth color changes. Among them, silver fluoride caused the most significant early darkening, while the combination of photodynamic therapy with sodium hypochlorite resulted in minimal darkening over time.

Introduction This study investigates tongue-cleaning habits, an often neglected aspect of oral hygiene, and the factors influencing these practices among medical students. Materials and Methods A cross-sectional survey of 961 Hanoi Medical University students used a questionnaire to collect data on demographics, tongue-cleaning frequency, tools, gag reflex, and related behaviors. Statistical analyses included logistic and linear regression models and chi-square tests to explore associations with tongue-cleaning habits. Results Only 65.76% of participants reported regularly practising tongue cleaning, with 47.81% doing it daily. The majority used toothbrushes (51.8%) rather than specialised tools. The gag reflex was prevalent (70.42%) and was significantly associated with reduced use of tongue brushes. Factors, such as female gender, perceived oral cleanliness, desire for information on tongue hygiene, and regular dental visits, were positively associated with better practices. Discussion Despite medical training, only two-thirds of students practiced tongue cleaning, and less than half did so daily. Females showed greater adherence but reported stronger gag reflexes. Motivators included perceived cleanliness and information-seeking, consistent with the Health Belief Model. Toothbrush reliance stemmed from accessibility and lack of guidance, while the gag reflex, linked to gender and beverage intake, hindered adherence. Tongue-cleaning behavior is influenced by demographic, perceptual, physiological, and educational factors. Conclusion Tongue cleaning among medical students is limited by the use of suboptimal techniques and tools. Gender, hygiene practices, gag reflex, and information-seeking shape habits. Integrating tongue hygiene education into medical curricula, guided by health behavior models, is crucial for enhancing practice and promoting sustained adoption.

Introduction This study aimed to evaluate nasolabial appearance following lip repair using the Cronin technique in patients with complete unilateral cleft lip by utilizing the unilateral cleft lip surgical outcomes evaluation (UCL SOE) scale. Methods Nine evaluators of different backgrounds, including three oral and maxillofacial surgeons, three oral and maxillofacial surgery residents, and three dental nurses, conducted the evaluations. Twenty-four pairs of photographs of patients with unilateral cleft lip who underwent lip repair using the Cronin technique were evaluated. Intra- and inter-evaluator reliability tests were conducted using the intraclass correlation coefficient. Results The intraclass correlation coefficients for each component and the total score revealed that oral and maxillofacial surgeons had very high intraclass correlation coefficients and scored 1.00 on nearly all components, indicating an almost perfect correlation. Conclusion In this study, intra-evaluator and inter-evaluator intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) showed consistent and reliable results for evaluating the esthetic outcomes of unilateral cleft lip repair using the Cronin lip repair technique; however, differences exist in the assessments between the different groups of evaluators. The evaluation of nasolabial appearance with the UCL SOE scale showed good reliability and consistency regardless of the evaluator's background. In addition, the technique used in this study, the Cronin method, can be recommended for unilateral cleft lip repair.

Introduction Demineralization and remineralization are naturally occurring processes. Since the type of food and its ingredients have a significant effect on the above-mentioned processes, this study aimed to investigate the effect of almond powder and banana milk on primary enamel erosive lesions caused by jelly gum and jelly candy. Method This in vitro study was conducted on 80 primary molar teeth. After the initial microhardness measurement, half of the teeth were immersed in an edible jelly solution, while the other half were immersed in a jelly gum solution for 5 minutes twice a day for 5 days. At the end of the fifth day, the microhardness of the samples was measured again. The teeth in each group were then randomly divided into four subgroups (n = 10) for immersion in 80% almond suspension, banana milk, artificial saliva, and fluoride gel for 15 minutes. Next, the microhardness of the teeth was measured for the third time, and the results were analyzed using ANOVA, ANCOVA, and post-hoc tests (α = 0.05). Results The microhardness of the specimens in the jelly group was significantly higher than that of the specimens in the jelly gum group. The microhardness of the specimens in the saliva group was significantly the lowest ( p <0.05); while the other remineralizing agents showed no significant difference with each other ( p >0.05). Discussion This study demonstrated that both jelly and jelly gum significantly reduced enamel microhardness, with jelly gum showing a stronger demineralizing effect. Almond powder and banana milk effectively restored enamel hardness, exhibiting remineralization comparable to fluoride. These findings suggest that natural, calcium-rich foods such as almonds and banana milk, may serve as viable alternatives for managing early erosive lesions in children. Conclusion According to the results, jelly candy and jelly gum increase dental erosion, and the demineralizing effect of jelly gum is greater than that of jelly candy. Almond and banana milk cause enamel remineralization, similar to fluoride.

Introduction Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) ankylosis is a debilitating condition that can lead to severe functional limitation and dentofacial deformities. We report a case of a young adult male with unilateral left bony TMJ ankylosis, presenting with a Class II Division 1 malocclusion on a Class II skeletal base, marked mandibular retrognathia (micrognathia) with chin deficiency, and facial asymmetry. Case Presentation A 16-year-old male presented with a 10-year history of restricted mouth opening following trauma (fall from a bicycle). Clinical and radiographic evaluation revealed left-sided bony TMJ ankylosis with associated facial asymmetry, chin deviation, and micrognathia. Mouth opening was limited to 4 mm. The patient underwent interpositional gap arthroplasty with temporalis muscle graft and advancement genioplasty in a single operative session. Postoperatively, there was gradual and sustained improvement, with mouth opening reaching 40 mm at 1-year follow-up. The surgical site remained healthy, and significant aesthetic enhancement was achieved. Conclusion This case demonstrates that single-stage surgical correction of TMJ ankylosis and associated facial deformities, such as micrognathia, is not only feasible but also effective in improving both function and facial harmony. Early surgical intervention using a combined approach can prevent long-term complications such as obstructive sleep apnea, speech disturbances, and psychological distress, making it a valuable strategy in managing pediatric and adolescent TMJ ankylosis.

Background Hypophosphatasia (HPP) is a rare inherited metabolic disorder of low prevalence, characterized by low activity of tissue-nonspecific alkaline phosphatase (TNSALP), causing defective mineralization of teeth and bone. Odontohypophosphatasia (odonto-HPP) is the mildest form of hypophosphatasia, with manifestations limited to dental features, such as premature loss of primary teeth. Case Report This case report presents a 3-year-old female patient who was diagnosed with odonto-HPP. There was a history of premature exfoliation of the lower primary central incisors shortly after eruption, without any accompaniment of pain or bleeding. She was referred at the hospital on a clinical suspicion of hypophosphatasia for further evaluation. The diagnosis of odonto-HPP was confirmed following bone densitometry and genetic analysis, which revealed a subtle mutation of the ALPL gene. Clinical assessment revealed normal body growth without systemic defects. Mandibular anterior region showed bone resorption and gingival recession, whereas the overall eruption pattern of teeth was normal. Treatment included vitamin D supplementation and dietary counseling. The patient is currently receiving follow-up every two years. Conclusion The case, as the second reported case of HPP on Lesvos Island, highlights the importance of recognizing early dental manifestations of the condition and the critical role of the dentist in the recognition and referral of such cases. Early diagnosis promotes effective surveillance and avoids unwarranted intervention.

Introduction Ozonized sunflower oil is increasingly employed in the management of oral conditions due to its antimicrobial and immunostimulating properties. While topical use is generally considered safe, off-label applications, such as intrasulcular or periapical injections, may pose unexpected clinical risks. The aim of the present report was to describe an unusual complication due to an improper use of ozonated oil and its management. Case Description We, herein, report the case of a 67-year-old female presenting with facial swelling unresponsive to antibiotics and corticosteroids. Initial evaluation suggested an odontogenic abscess; however, ultrasonography revealed an irregular, avascular intramuscular collection with a surrounding hypoechoic halo. The patient disclosed prior treatment involving ozonized sunflower oil, raising suspicion of an inadvertent submucosal injection. Surgical drainage yielded brownish fluid, with microbiological analysis proving negative. A second aspiration was required due to residual swelling. The patient reported near-complete symptom resolution following the second intervention. This case highlighted the potential adverse outcomes of non-topical administration of ozonized oil, which is non-resorbable and may induce a foreign body inflammatory response. Ultrasonography played a key role in differential diagnosis and guided therapeutic intervention, which was successfully managed with needle aspiration. Conclusion Off-label injections of ozonized oil should be avoided. Ultrasound assessment is instrumental in diagnosis, and needle-driven aspiration may offer an effective, minimally invasive treatment.

Introduction Oral health significantly impacts overall well-being. Emerging research has focused on systemic factors, including ABO blood groups, as potential influencers of oral disease susceptibility. The purpose is to understand the potential physiological and/or immunological association between the ABO blood groups and susceptibility to periodontal diseases and dental caries. This might aid in developing early diagnostic and treatment strategies for these conditions based on the individual ABO blood group. Methods This review synthesizes findings from cross-sectional studies published between 2015-2025, exploring the association between ABO blood types and susceptibility to dental caries and periodontitis, and examining immunological and physiological mechanisms underpinning these relationships. A set of inclusion and exclusion criteria was adopted to ensure proper search, sound evaluation, and conclusions. Results A systematic search of the major databases identified 29 relevant cross-sectional studies involving diverse populations, of which 21 studies discussed the ABO blood group association with periodontitis. Findings indicated that individuals with blood group AB exhibited an increased risk of developing dental caries, while those with blood group O were at higher risk of developing periodontitis. Possible explanations include the presence of salivary immunoglobulins (IgA, IgM, IgG), the ABO antigen secretion status, or the combination of both. Although these associations were significant, blood groups alone do not conclusively determine disease development. Additional factors, such as oral hygiene, dietary habits, ethnicity, and genetics, play critical roles. Conclusion In-depth research including various confounders is needed to provide a comprehensive conclusion. Findings reported here can have practical implications in dental practice by incorporating blood group data into the patient assessment profile in dental screenings.