AIM. This systematic review aims to systematically assess the efficacy of selective enamel etching compared to conventional etching methods in reducing the incidence and severity of white spot lesions during fixed orthodontic therapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS. A systematic literature search was performed following the PRISMA 2020 statement and was registered on PROSPERO (CRD420251026790). The databases PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Google Scholar were searched for randomized controlled trials, split-mouth studies, and prospective cohorts up to 15 July 2025 that compared selective and conventional enamel etching in patients undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment. The primary outcomes included incidence, severity, and timing of white spot lesions during orthodontic treatment. The study quality was assessed using the JBI checklist.

RESULTS. Four studies, including 131 patients, fulfilled the inclusion criteria. All the included studies showed that selective etching decreased the early development of white spot lesions or delayed it for a period, especially in the first 3–6 months of orthodontic treatment. The long-term differences, however, were less pronounced at the end of the treatment. No adverse effects or an increased bond failure rate related to selective etching was reported.

CONCLUSIONS. Selective enamel etching offers an initial protective effect because it delays the development of white spot lesions in the early stages of orthodontic treatment. However, it is not known with certainty if selective enamel etching has a long-term benefit due to the limitation of evidence. Therefore, it must be considered an adjunctive preventive measure until confirmation is obtained from larger, standardized clinical trials.

AIM. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease known by immune response disturbance and imbalanced in oxidative stress status. one of the SLE features is an oral ulcer that is associated with oxidative stress, the present study aims to assess some oral ulcer types and features with GST (GSTT1, GSTM1 and GSTP1) null genotyping in SLE with and without oral ulcer in addition to its types and features.
MATERIALS AND METHODS. Null genotyping PCR was used to detect GSTT1, GSTM1 and GSTP1.
RESULTS. They show significant association of GSTM1 and GSTP1 with SLE (p = 0.0010, p = 0.0024) respectively, and non-significant changes of GSTT1 (p = 0.7426) when compared with the control group. a cross section comparison GST between SLE patients with and without oral ulcer shows a significant association of GSTT1 (p = 0.0367) and a non-significant association of GSTM1 (p = 0.1056) and GSTP1 (p = 0.218). The number of oral ulcers (single and multiple ulcers) shows a non-significant association in all GST genes (p = 0.882, 0.959, 0.552) respectively. The painful oral ulcers show non-significant association of GST genes (p = 0.803, 0.143, 0.585) respectively, the oral ulcer types included buccal, palatal, labial and tongue, were non-significantly (p = 0.608) correlated with GST.
CONCLUSIONS. There was a strong association of GSTM1 and GSTP1 with SLE, a non-significant association of the GST with oral ulcer types and features.

AIM. Enterococcus faecalis is a gram-positive facultative anaerobe commonly known as the primary pathogen implicated in persistent and secondary endodontic infections, due to its exceptional capacity to invade dentinal tubules, form resistant biofilms and survive in nutritionally adverse alkaline environments. Although effective, conventional chemical irrigants like sodium hypochlorite and chlorhexidine have been found to cause cytotoxicity and other unwanted effects. Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) is a medicinal plant that has shown promise as a natural antimicrobial agent due to its richness in flavonoids, polyphenols, carotenoids and unsaturated fatty acids. The purpose of this review is to summarize and examine existing evidence on the antimicrobial efficacy, mechanisms of action, and clinical potential of sea buckthorn against E. faecalis in the context of root canal infections.

MATERIALS AND METHODS. The literature review was conducted thoroughly by using the PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Library databases. The review incorporated studies in English that involved phytochemical, microbiological, in vitro, and in vivo studies that were relevant to the study involving the use of sea buckthornderived agents when conducting dentistry and endodontics research.

RESULTS. Extracts of sea buckthorn exhibit broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity that can be ascribed to bioactive compounds, such as quercetin, kaempferol, isorhamnetin, palmitoleic acid and ascorbic acid. Disruption of bacterial cell membranes, inhibition of biofilm formation, suppression of acid production, and modulation of host inflammatory responses are all reported antibacterial mechanisms. Aqueous and hydroalcoholic leaf extracts have demonstrated growth-inhibitory action against E. faecalis, whilst, pulp oilbased preparations have demonstrated anti-biofilm activity against a variety of oral pathogens. Comparative studies indicate similar, and in certain cases better, efficacy compared with chlorhexidine, and much better biocompatibility.

 CONCLUSIONS. Sea buckthorn is a biocompatible, multifunctional adjunct that can be used as an endodontic irrigant or intracanal medicament. Nonetheless, before it can be adopted into routine clinical practice, standardization of extraction techniques, optimal concentrations, and optimally designed randomized clinical trials are required.

INTRODUCTION. Maxillary lateral incisor (MLI) hypodontia is a significant developmental dental anomaly with profound aesthetic and functional implications. While global prevalence typically ranges from 1.6% to 6.9%, data regarding its occurrence in specific Middle Eastern populations remains limited. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence, distribution, and sex-specific patterns of MLI agenesis in an Iraqi adolescent cohort from Babylon City.

MATERIALS AND METHODS. A retrospective cross-sectional analysis was conducted on 2,196 high-quality orthopantomograms of patients aged 12–18 years, retrieved from academic and private clinical archives between 2017 and 2023. Cases with craniofacial syndromes, previous orthodontic extractions, or trauma were excluded. MLI agenesis was radiographically confirmed by the absence of the tooth germ. Statistical analysis was performed using chi-square tests (p < 0.05).

RESULTS. The overall prevalence of MLI hypodontia was 13.8% (n = 304), notably exceeding reported global averages. No significant difference was found in overall occurrence between males (13.8%) and females (13.9%) (p = 0.98). Unilateral agenesis was significantly more frequent than bilateral involvement (70.1% vs. 29.9%, p < 0.001). Left-sided agenesis (52.6%) was the most common presentation. Distinct sex-dimorphic patterns were observed: males exhibited higher proportions of bilateral and right-sided agenesis, whereas females demonstrated a predilection for unilateral left-sided involvement (p = 0.016).

CONCLUSIONS. The prevalence of MLI hypodontia in Babylon City is remarkably high, characterized by a predominant unilateral, left-sided distribution. The identified sex-specific patterns suggest potential underlying genetic or epigenetic influences within this population. These findings underscore the necessity for early radiographic screening and a coordinated multidisciplinary approach to mitigate the long-term aesthetic, occlusal, and psychological sequelae associated with this condition.

AIM. The objective of this study is to understand the knowledge of periodontal medicine among third year, final year and dental interns.

MATERIALS AND METHODS. This cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted among dental students in Chengalpattu district, Tamil Nadu – India, belonging to third year, final year and Interns. A total of 15 questions about the prevalence, etiology, signs, association, risk factors, and treatment of periodontal medicine were included in the questionnaire.

RESULTS. Based on our study findings, a Moderate level of overall periodontal medicine knowledge was found. Although there were differences between genders in years of study in regards to disease prevalence / reasons / associations – there were statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) regarding the clinical signs of periodontal disease (i.e., clinical signs of scurvy). A few associations were also identified as having a relationship between periodontal disease as well as two or more systemic diseases i.e., atherosclerotic heart disease. In each domain of knowledge there were identifiable risk factors associated with periodontal disease – while low-dose doxycycline was found by essentially all participants to be the best treatment of periodontitis for diabetic patients in comparison to other medications. There was no statistically significant difference found for either gender or the year of study.

CONCLUSIONS. Among the dental students, there is a good amount of knowledge regarding the relationship between periodontal disease and various systemic illnesses. Further, knowledge should be spread on anticipatory guidance to patients on periodontal disease and its association with systemic illnesses.

INTRODUCTION. The optimum root canal treatment outcome is usually governed by excellent instrumentation and shaping of the endodontic system, debridement and ultimate disinfection protocol. Therefore, it is extremely necessary to investigate the complicated morphology of the endodontic system with a reliable and accurate methodology.

MATERIALS AND METHODS. Three hundred and eighty-four CBCT images (620 total number of teeth) of Iraqi people aged 15–45 years old and obtained between 2019–2024 were collected. CBCT scans of maxillary premolars (U4 and U5) were examined in three different planes (axial, coronal, and sagittal) to identify root number, root canal number and its configuration (according to Vertucci classification) and, tooth anomalies including. These findings were correlated with gender. Pearson chi-square (χ²) test was used for data comparison at confidence interval (95%), and margin of error (0.05).

RESULTS. Seventy percent of the examined U4 had 2 roots, while triple and single-rooted represented 1% and 29% of overall samples, respectively. Seventy-nine percent of the examined U5 had 1 root, while triple and double-rooted represented 0% and 21%, respectively. The predominant canal number in the U4 was two (71%), followed by single and triple canals in 27% and 1% respectively with predominant type V configuration. For U5, 70% comes with single canal and 29% with double canals with type I predominant configuration. Majority of these parameters showed statistical relations with tooth and gender.

CONCLUSION. This study used CBCT to identify internal canal anatomy in a sample of permanent maxillary premolars drawn from an Iraqi population, with variations in prevalence related to gender and tooth. With particular reference to the little likelihood of presenting more than two roots and canals in the U4 and more intricate canalicular anatomy in the middle third of this root, clinicians should be mindful of the tooth’s diversified anatomical complexity. This could help dentists perform endodontic procedures and hence impact the result. However, there is not enough data to suggest that this tooth be scanned in three dimensions prior to endodontic treatment.

INTRODUCTION. Dental caries is one of the most common and multifactorial dental diseases. Dental caries in children aged 6 to 71 months is a complex and serious issue in pediatric dentistry. Risk factors for the development of this disease require a comprehensive and integrated assessment to understand the causes and develop prevention programs. Sociological research is essential for assessing and analyzing the risk factors for early childhood caries. Surveys, as one of the sociological research methods, can provide a high level of sample size and the data necessary for analyzing the risk factors for early childhood caries.

AIM. To study prenatal and postnatal risk factors for early childhood caries based on questionnaire data.

MATERIALS AND METHODS. A survey of 1,440 children aged 1 to 5 years living in Moscow was conducted. During the clinical examination, a questionnaire was administered to parents (legal guardians) to assess prenatal and postnatal risk factors for early childhood caries. The questionnaire questions concerned the course of pregnancy, especially the second half; at what age it is necessary to visit a pediatric dentist; whether primary teeth need to be treated; whether the child was night-fed after the eruption of primary teeth; the timeliness of primary teeth eruption; and at what age teeth cleaning and oral hygiene are started. All questions had one answer option. The questionnaire data were entered into Excel tables and statistical processing of the research results was performed using the R 4.2.2 programming language for statistical data processing. Statistical significance was assessed at the α = 0.05 level; the results were considered statistically significant at p < 0.05.

RESULTS. A statistically significant relationship was found between the prevalence of early childhood caries and the pathological course of the mother’s second pregnancy (χ² = 600.1, df = 1, p < 0.0001). A statistically significant relationship was found between the prevalence of early childhood caries and the timing of eruption of primary teeth (χ² = 278.1, df = 2, p < 0.0001). The risk of developing caries with early eruption is 2.6 (95% CI (2.24–2.92)) times higher than with timely eruption, and 3.96 (95% CI (3.09–5.07)) times higher than with late eruption. A statistically significant relationship was found between the prevalence of early childhood caries and the time of initiation of tooth brushing (χ² = 15.15, df = 2, p < 0.00051). The risk of developing caries in the absence of oral hygiene is 1.3 times higher (95% CI (1.07–1.56)) than in children who start brushing their teeth at 12 months, and 2.6 times higher (95% CI (1.98-3.48)) than in children with good oral hygiene from the moment of eruption. A statistically significant association was found between the absence of caries and night feeding of a child after the eruption of primary teeth (χ² = 227.8, df = 1, p < 0.0001). Night feeding of children up to 12 months after the eruption of primary teeth is not a risk factor for early childhood caries. The prevalence of early childhood caries in patients who began visiting a pediatric dentist before 12 months was 33.3%, from 12 – 40.8%, in case of the need for dental treatment – 33.4% (χ² = 7.38, df = 2, p < 0.025). However, the odds ratio for the groups before 12 and from 12 months did not reach statistical significance 1.22 (95% CI (0.91–1.65)), which makes it difficult to interpret the effect size. A statistically significant relationship was found between the prevalence of early childhood caries and parents’ knowledge about the need for treatment of primary teeth (χ² = 13.33, df = 1, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS. The questionnaire method allowed for a high level of participation in the study and the data necessary for analysis. Analysis of the questionnaire results revealed that the most important prenatal risk factor for early childhood caries is the course of pregnancy, particularly the second half, as this is when the mineralization of primary tooth buds begins. Postnatal risk factors for early childhood caries include the early eruption of primary teeth, the lack of hygiene measures after the eruption of primary teeth, the lack of awareness among parents regarding the need for visits to a pediatric dentist to discuss a preventive care plan, and a lack of awareness regarding the need for treatment of primary teeth. In children under 12 months of age, night feeding after the eruption of primary teeth is not a risk factor for early childhood caries.

AIM. The study was intended to compare the shear bond strength (SBS) of universal composite with three different liners and two different adhesive systems.

MATERIALS AND METHODS. Sixty maxillary premolar teeth with 3mm diameter and 2 mm depth cavities were prepared and categorized into 3 groups of twenty each. Each group was filled with the respective liners Group I: Biodentine; Group II: Resin Modified Glass Ionomer Cement (RMGIC); Group III: Mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA). Each group had two subgroups according to the adhesive system used: Group A (Prime & Bond, universal adhesive) and Group B (Te-Econom Bonding agent). A split teflon mould was used to build a composite resin of dimensions 2 mm in diameter and 4 mm in depth, and light-cured. The SBS was determined by utilising a knife-edge blade in a universal testing machine, and fractured surfaces were evaluated under a scanning electron microscope.

RESULTS. The findings revealed that RMGIC achieved adequate SBS to universal composite and showed a mixed mode of failure compared to other groups. Applying a self-etch adhesive (Prime & Bond) between RMGIC and universal composite resin significantly enhances SBS as opposed to a total-etch adhesive (Te-ECONOM). Whereas Biodentine and MTA exhibited lower SBS when immediately bonded to the universal composite.

CONCLUSIONS. Based on the findings of this study, RMGIC is established as an optimal material for indirect pulp capping in clinical practice, and Biodentine and MTA are ideal for vital pulp therapy in cases of pulp exposure, with Biodentine yielding superior results.

INTRODUCTION. Geographic Tongue is the most common abnormalities of the tongue that etiopathogenesis of them remains to be clarified. This disorder is strongly suspected to be influenced by genetic factors and other predisposition factors. Several studies have revealed that this lesion occur more frequently on women than on men.

AIM. The aim of this research is to determine the distribution of geographic tongue, based on the gender, burning sensation, sites of occurance and predisposing factors among the dental students.

MATERIALS AND METHODS. By distributing a questionnaire, 110 dental students participated in a cross-sectional study. A statistical study that was both descriptive and inferential was conducted.

RESULTS. Geographic tongue was mostly reported in female students (51.1%), most of the affected student was suffered from burning. The higher percentage was recorded in both dorsal and lateral tongue sites (77.0%). Stress showed the most common etiological factor for geographic tongue among dental students (48.6%).

CONCLUSION. Fifth grade dental students reported geographic tongue with female predilection and different etiological factors, stress was the most common one.

AIM. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of different instrument tapers on the enlargement and morphological alterations of the apical foramen in curved mesial canals of mandibular molars.

MATERIALS AND METHODS Forty mesial canals from mandibular molars with moderate curvature were randomly allocated into five experimental groups (n = 8) based on the taper of the final instrumentation file: 25/.01, 25/.03, 25/.04, 25/.05, and 25/.06. Irrigation was performed with 2.5% sodium hypochlorite and 17% EDTA. The foraminal area and shape were assessed using stereomicroscopy (40x magnification) and ImageJ before and after preparation. Non-parametric tests (Dunn and Wilcoxon) were used for intragroup and baseline comparisons. Parametric tests (ANOVA and Tukey) were applied to compare the percentage of foraminal enlargement between groups, and the Chi-square test evaluated alterations in foraminal shape. The significance level was set at 5% (α = 0.05).

RESULTS. All tapers resulted in a statistically significant increase in the apical foraminal area (p < 0.05). The 25/.01 and 25/.06 instruments produced the greatest percentage increases in area (85.09% and 92.76%, respectively), whereas the 25/.03 and 25/.05 instruments promoted the most conservative enlargement (39.43% and 32.41%, respectively). However, no statistically significant difference was observed among the groups regarding the alteration of the foraminal shape (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS. The taper and the cross-section design of the endodontic instrument significantly influenced the apical foraminal enlargement but did not have a significant effect on the preservation of its original morphology. Instruments with .03 and .05 tapers resulted in the most conservative foraminal preparation.

INTRODUCTION. Chronic periodontitis, especially its destructive forms, remains one of the leading causes of tooth loss. This requires the improvement of therapeutic approaches to preserve the functionality of the dentofacial system and enhance the quality of life.

AIM. To systematically analyze the literature and summarize the available evidence on modern approaches to the treatment of chronic apical periodontitis associated with stable positive outcomes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS. Modern data from Russian and international literature, 80 sources, over the past 15 years on effective methods and aspects of treatment of chronic apical dental periodontitis have been studied and analyzed in the databases: PubMed, eLibrary.ru, CyberLeninka, Google Scholar, Crossref, and Green Version.

RESULTS. The analysis of this literature allows us to consider chronic periodontitis as a widespread pathology. Effective treatment requires: a comprehensive approach, strong manual skills of the dentist, adequate equipment and a structural understanding of the processes occurring at each stage of treatment. The sources we have studied report an 85% success rate in treating periodontitis. Furthermore, crown fracture accounts for 15% of treatment failures, occurring sometime after successful endodontic therapy. This issue can be resolved through post-supported restoration and appropriate crown prosthodontics.

CONCLUSIONS. Modern treatment methods include comprehensive, conservative, and innovative technologies supported by evidence-based medicine and confirmed by numerous clinical studies. The use of an endodontic microscope, ultrasound activation, irrigation solutions of antiseptics, antibiotics, guided bone regeneration drugs, bioceramic filling materials and new physiotherapy techniques significantly increases the effectiveness of therapy and reduces the duration of treatment.