Australasian Orthodontic Journal Feed

Single incisor intrusion with thermoformed aligner and inter-arch elastomeric

Fri, 16 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

This case report describes a simple method for single tooth intrusion using a modified thermoform aligner and an orthodontic elastic. This technique allows for an aesthetic and monetarily beneficial solution for the patient. The biomechanical advantage of this technique leaves the adjacent dentition unaltered and does not require multiple appliances or attachment, like other clear aligner techniques. In addition, it may be used as an adjunctive in clear aligner therapy.

Bone- and tooth-borne maxillary protraction with miniscrews and class III elastics: A pilot case-control study

Mon, 12 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

BackgroundBone-Anchored Class III Elastics (BAC3E) with miniplates offer better skeletal outcomes but require invasive surgical placement and removal. This pilot study explores a minimally invasive alternative by assessing the dental, skeletal, and soft tissue effects of miniscrew-assisted maxillary protraction (MAMP) combined with computer-aided design/manufacturing (CAD/CAM) in skeletal Class III patients.MethodsEleven pre-peak subjects (seven females, four males) with a retrusive maxilla were treated with MAMP and compared with two retrospective control groups (BAC3E and untreated Class III controls). Subjects were matched for age, gender, and vertical skeletal pattern. Pre- and post-treatment lateral cephalograms were taken. The MAMP protocol involved custom CAD/CAM frameworks with four miniscrews, with Class III elastics worn full-time. Paired t-tests and ANOVA were employed for statistical comparisons.ResultsThe MAMP group showed significant maxillary skeletal improvements (SNA, +2.5°; Co-A, +2.4 mm), reduced SNML angle (−0.6°), maxillary incisors retroclination (U1-PP, −4.7 °), mandibular incisors proclination (L1-ML, +1.6°), and improved overjet (+3.8 mm). Compared to BAC3E, the MAMP group had significantly smaller midfacial advancement but significantly greater maxillomandibular outcomes than untreated controls. No significant differences in mandibular sagittal position were found between the MAMP and BAC3E groups, but the MAMP group exhibited significant Co-Gn changes compared to untreated controls. No significant vertical changes were observed among the three groups.ConclusionsMAMP with CAD/CAM frameworks offers an effective, minimally invasive approach for early Class III intervention, with favourable skeletal improvements and vertical control.

Airway analysis in orthodontics: a comprehensive review of methods, relevance, and clinical implications

Mon, 12 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Learning about and assessing any airway-related issues is crucial for each patient who comes to the orthodontic office. An essential part of the decision-making process should be assessing the impact of orthodontic treatment on the upper airway's dimensions. There is strong evidence that various therapeutic techniques, including RME, functional jaw orthopaedics, and especially maxillomandibular advancement treatments, have positive associations and effects on airway-related problems. In this review article, we have tried to give a comprehensive description of the various methods for assessing the airway and its clinical consequences in orthodontics. An essential part of the decision-making process should be assessing the impact of orthodontic treatment on the upper airway's dimensions.

Advances in the diagnosis and management of impacted canines: An updated evidence-based review

Mon, 12 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Impacted canines present significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges in orthodontics, with potential consequences including root resorption, malocclusion, and compromised aesthetics if left untreated. This review illustrates current advances in the diagnosis and management of impacted canines, emphasizing an evidence-based approach. Emerging diagnostic modalities, particularly cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), have allowed precise three-dimensional localization and assessment of root proximity, although their use must be justified against radiation exposure. Orthodontic strategies, including traction biomechanics for effective traction and minimizing adverse effects on adjacent teeth. Surgical management techniques, including open and closed exposure protocols, are discussed with attention to periodontal health and long-term outcomes. Additionally, the use of orthodontic miniscrews as skeletal anchorage has enhanced control over tooth movement, reducing unwanted side effects and improving predictability. Collectively, these advances facilitate safer, more efficient, and more esthetically favorable results. However, the ultimate treatment goal remains the establishment of a functionally stable occlusion and an attractive smile, maintained through careful long-term retention.

Total arch distalisation using clear aligners and micro-implant anchorage for treating crowding and lip protrusion in an adult

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

This case report presents a treatment approach which combines clear aligners and skeletal anchorage, mainly micro-implants, to address crowding and lip protrusion in a middle-aged adult who presented with multiple prosthetic restorations. Tooth movements were strategically staged in a virtual setup, beginning with canine retraction using micro-implants to resolve anterior crowding, followed by en-masse distalisation of the dentition. For refinement, additional in-house aligners were employed alongside fixed auxiliaries. The total treatment duration was 9 months, demonstrating high time efficiency. Cone beam computed tomography superimposition indicated posterior tooth distalisation, slight dental arch expansion, and predominantly tipping movements of the distalised teeth. This approach of total arch distalisation rather than conventional sequential distalisation, proved to be temporally efficient against equivalent treatment results. Further research is warranted to improve biomechanical predictability and develop standardised treatment protocols.

‘Occlusion and temporomandibular joint disorders: a meta-analysis of psychosocial outcomes’

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Evaluation of the shear bond strength of metal brackets to 3d-printed crowns fabricated with permanent crown resins: an in vitro comparative study

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMT

IntroductionThe bond strength of metal brackets to dental restorations directly affects the success of orthodontic treatment. In recent years, the clinical use of permanent restorations for adult patients and fabricated using three-dimensional (3D) printers has been increasing. Therefore, the present study aims to evaluate the shear bond strength (SBS) between orthodontic metal brackets and three different permanent restorative resins.MethodsA total of 120 central incisor-shaped samples (n=40 per group) were fabricated from three different permanent restoration resins using a 3D printer: Saremco Print Crowntec (CR), VarseoSmile Crown Plus (VS), and P-Crown V3 (PC). The samples were polished, and the surface area for bracket bonding was roughened under standardised conditions using Al2O3 sandblasting. Following cleaning, metal brackets were bonded using a bis-acryl composite resin according to the adhesive protocol. To simulate intraoral conditions, all samples underwent thermocycling (10,000 cycles between 5°C - 55°C), followed by bond strength testing using a universal testing machine. SBS values and the Adhesive Remnant Index (ARI) scores were recorded. ANOVA was performed to assess the effect of the different resin types on SBS. A Fisher–Freeman–Halton exact test was applied for the comparison of ARI scores.ResultsThe mean and standard deviation of SBS values were 13.28 ± 2.85 MPa for the CR group, 13.92 ± 1.60 MPa for the VS group, and 13.33 ± 2.75 MPa for the PC group. Statistical analysis using the ANOVA test revealed no significant differences between the three resin groups (p = 0.738). In the comparison of the ARI scores between the different resin types, no statistically significant differences were observed (p >0.05).ConclusionsThe bond strength values between permanent restorative resins and metal brackets were found to be clinically acceptable, and the structural differences between the resins did not affect bond strength.

Treatment duration for impacted maxillary canines: A comparison between surgical exposure and conservative non-surgical orthodontic space opening

Fri, 26 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMT

ObjectivesThe present study aimed to identify factors predictive of increased treatment duration in patients presenting with impacted maxillary canines, and to assess the suitability of space opening as an alternative management technique compared to surgical exposure.MethodsA retrospective investigation of case records and radiographs of 73 patients who presented with impacted maxillary canines was undertaken. A control group of 45 patients with matching age and gender profiles was also collected. Patient age, gender, treatment modality (orthodontic space opening and/or surgical exposure), and overall treatment duration were recorded. The variables describing canine location and orientation were assessed on two-dimensional orthopantomograms (OPGs).ResultsThe treatment of labial/mid-alveolar sites of canine impaction took 32.1 weeks longer, and palatally-impacted canines 43.5 weeks longer, compared with conventional orthodontic cases. The assessment of multicollinearity found a significant correlation between the radiographic descriptors of canine impaction identified on OPGs. The group of variables was strongly associated with treatment time (p<0.001) and explained 24.03 per cent of the variability. Treatment by surgical exposure was associated with a statistically insignificant 32.3-week reduction in treatment time compared to space opening (p=0.07) while a change from space opening to surgical exposure was associated with a statistically insignificant 17.3-week reduction in treatment time compared to space opening (p=0.27). However, the case selection for surgical and non-surgical management of impacted canines differed significantly. All labial/mid-alveolar canines, and palatal canines in sectors I and II, or vertical (KPG) classification 1 were successfully treated by space opening. Most palatal impactions in sector IV, and all vertical (KPG) classification 4 canines required surgical exposure. For appropriately case-selected patients, treatment time did not differ significantly between space opening (128.9 weeks) or surgical exposure (136.0 weeks).ConclusionsThe increased total treatment duration for impacted maxillary canines is associated with worsening impaction as assessed on OPGs. Space opening is a valid treatment modality for all but the most severely impacted maxillary canines.

Landmark validation for a mandibular horizontal plane for analysing facial asymmetry: Mental foramen versus Gonion

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMT

ObjectiveThis study aimed to compare the validity of the mental foramen (MF) and gonion (Go) as landmarks for a mandibular horizontal plane by assessing their vertical positions and line angulations.MethodsNinety cone-beam computed tomography scans of skeletal Class III adult patients were included. The patients were divided into two main groups: symmetry (n=30) and asymmetry groups (n=60). The asymmetry group was subdivided into the roll (n=30) and non-roll types (n=30). A three-dimensional co-ordinate system was established using the best-fit mirroring superimposition of the mandibular body. Landmark positions of the MF and Go were analysed and line angulations were calculated using their coordinates.ResultsThe Go line angulation relative to the x-axis in the mandibular co-ordinate system was significantly greater than the MF line angulation in both groups and asymmetry types (P<0.05). The difference between the Go line and the MF line angulations was significantly greater in the roll type than in the non-roll type. The bilateral vertical discrepancy in Go position was significantly greater than that of MF for both groups and asymmetry types.ConclusionsThe bilateral vertical discrepancy of the MF was significantly smaller than that of Go in symmetrically positioned mandibles. The mandibular roll may be assessed differently when using MF-based versus Go-based mandibular planes.

A voxel-based CBCT superimposition of upper molar distalisation using clear aligners in conjunction with Class II elastics

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMT

ObjectiveThe discrepancy between an anticipated digital configuration and the realised results poses a continual challenge during clear aligner therapy. The present study aims to examine the generated tooth movement achieved when upper molars are moved distally using clear aligners and Class II elastics.Materials and methodsThirty adult patients (13 males and 17 females) aged between 18 and 35 years-old were analysed. CBCT scans taken before and at the end of a distalisation phase were superimposed using a voxel-based registration. Molar distalisation efficiency, tipping and rotation angles, and changes in arch width were quantified to assess the achieved tooth movement. Pearson’s correlation coefficients and multiple linear regression models were applied to examine the tooth changes, and how gender, attachments, and initial crowding affected the results.ResultsThe study determined that the effectiveness of moving upper molars distally using clear aligners along with Class II elastics was 60% ± 7% of the designed movement. Due to a counterforce, the upper incisors experienced labial tipping of 3.84° ± 1.1°, the lower molar was mesialised by 0.64 mm ± 0.27 mm, and the lower incisors underwent labial tipping of 2.61° ± 1.13°. The upper archwidth displayed a non-significant increase, whereas the width of the lower arch exhibited a non-significant reduction. Furthermore, molars with attachments exhibited reduced distal tipping and rotation. The initial crowding was inversely related to the amount of upper molar distalisation and positively related to tipping.ConclusionThis is the first CBCT superimposition study to reveal the achieved tooth movements during upper molar distalisation. The results suggest that multiple factors impact tooth movement.

Controlled rotation and maxillary premolar extractions for the management of bilateral mandibular lateral incisor-canine fusion: A case report

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Tooth fusion in the permanent dentition is exceedingly uncommon, particularly if involving a mandibular lateral incisor–canine pair. Bilateral fusion is even more rare. The present study describes a 27-year-old female who presented with severe maxillary anterior crowding and bilateral mandibular tooth fusion, which was complete on the right and incomplete on the left side. After discussion of alternative options, treatment comprised the extraction of both maxillary first premolars, conservative reduction of the right fused unit and a controlled 90° rotation of the left fused mandibular teeth, while applying a self-ligating fixed appliance system. Over 25 months of comprehensive orthodontic therapy, Class I molar and canine relationships were maintained, the mandibular midline was corrected, the maxillary incisors were uprighted and retracted, the mandibular incisor inclination was reduced, and overjet and overbite were normalised. At a three-year review, occlusal stability, periodontal health and patient satisfaction were upheld. This proof-of-concept demonstrates that rotational mechanics can effectively create space and harmonise tooth form in cases of rare fusion anomalies without compromising pulp vitality or periodontal integrity and further, highlights the need for larger cohort studies to confirm long-term predictability.

The accuracy and reliability of a novel smartphone application for orthodontic soft tissue analysis: A pilot study

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Background and aimTo establish a smartphone-based application (App) for orthodontic soft-tissue analysis and to compare the derived soft-tissue linear and angular measurements to those acquired from conventional lateral cephalometric and digital photogrammetric analyses.MethodologyA pilot study was conducted on 26 participants aged between 14 and 30 years who intended to undergo orthodontic treatment. Each participant was subjected to three methods of soft tissue measurement: lateral cephalometric tracing measurements using Dolphin Imaging software, digital photogrammetric tracing measurements using WebCeph Website (webceph.com), and Smartphone App tracing measurements (SOFTBLINK). The applied linear and angular measurements were: Profile facial third, Profile angle, Nasiolabial angle, Mentolabial angle, and Mandibular plane angle. The values obtained from the Dolphin imaging software, WebCeph, and SOFTBLINK application were compared using the repeated measures MANOVA test.ResultsDespite the mild variation obtained in the mean values between the three methods of soft tissue analyses, the MANOVA and the subsequent multiple pairwise comparison tests revealed a statistically non-significant difference between the three methods of soft tissue measurement regarding all of the tested linear and angular measurements.ConclusionsThe results obtained by the SOFTBLINK App showed comparable measurements with the Dolphin Imaging software. User-friendly mobile Apps can be utilised with sufficient accuracy for the soft tissue analysis required in daily clinical orthodontic practice

Consumer perceptions and expressed satisfaction of traditional braces and clear aligners

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 00:00:00 GMT

AimTo investigate and compare patient perceptions and satisfaction regarding traditional braces and clear aligners.Materials and methodsIn this qualitative, interpretive study, a total of 40 participants were recruited from a public institution and a private clinic. Participants were over the age of 18 years and categorised into six groups, dependent on treatment type and stage. A qualitative questionnaire, asking 16 open-ended questions was distributed by email and was hosted online using XM Qualtrics. All responses to the questionnaire were organised into themes using NVIVO and were then analysed using the Braun and Clarke reflexive thematic analysis approach.ResultsPatient perceptions towards braces were primarily influenced by family, friends and research on the internet, while clear aligner consumers’ perceptions appeared to be greatly influenced by social media. Patients generally perceived braces to be unaesthetic, painful and inconvenient. Clear aligners were considered aesthetic, but also associated with possible pain, increased oral hygiene practices and reported clinical limitations. Throughout treatment, braces users were less concerned regarding the aesthetics of their appliances when compared to the pain and other faced inconvenience. Clear aligner patients were mostly satisfied with the aesthetics of their appliance and least satisfied with the inconvenience of having to insert and remove them before and after meals.ConclusionBraces users relied on dentists and family for information, while aligner users sought online sources and social media. Braces were associated with poor visible aesthetics and discomfort, while aligners were preferred for their discrete appearance and convenience. Braces affected eating and oral hygiene to a greater extent, while aligners required frequent removal for meals, which posed challenges. Negative experience perceptions continued post-treatment for wearers of braces but did not for users of aligners. Treatment choice should consider patient priorities and case complexity, but also the manner by which consumers seek information and evaluate experience expectations related to pain and aesthetics.

Diagnosis and management of molar incisor hypomineralisation in children: An evidence-based overview

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Molar incisor hypomineralisation (MIH) is a developmental, qualitative enamel irregularity associated with a reduction of inorganic and mineralised components, leading to tooth discolouration and weakening of tooth structure. Patients presenting with one or more teeth affected by MIH are common in dental practice. With a broad range of clinical manifestations, MIH can be difficult to diagnose. The condition may have a deleterious impact on the general health, psychosocial well-being and the quality of life of children who are affected. Teeth with MIH can result in hypersensitivity, sub-optimal aesthetics, and a rapid increase of dental caries. It also presents additional challenges for the orthodontist in relation to the management of affected patients. The present paper provides an evidence-based overview of the prevalence and aetiology of the condition, with specific emphasis on the orthodontic implications. The paper summarises the clinical characteristics of MIH and the range of potential management options. An accurate and timely diagnosis can enable effective planning and appropriate management that is tailored for the individual child patient.

Occlusion and temporomandibular joint disorders: a meta-analysis of psychosocial outcomes

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 00:00:00 GMT

ObjectivesThis meta-analysis aims to evaluate the effects of occlusal therapy, specifically the use of occlusal splints, on psychosocial outcomes in patients with temporomandibular joint disorders (TMDs). While occlusal splints are commonly used to manage TMD symptoms, their impact on psychological and quality-of-life outcomes, such as anxiety, depression, oral health-related quality of life, sleep quality, and overall quality of life remains unclear.MethodsA systematic search was conducted across databases including PubMed, Google scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science, focusing on studies which assessed the psychosocial impacts of occlusal splint therapy in adult TMD patients. Eligible studies, published between 2000 and 2024, included quantitative measurements of the specified psychosocial outcomes. A total of 17 studies met the inclusion criteria and were subjected to meta-analytic review. Effect sizes were calculated using a random-effects model, with subgroup analyses conducted to explore potential moderators.ResultsThe overall findings suggest that occlusal splint therapy does not significantly improve anxiety, overall quality of life, nor sleep quality in patients presenting with temporomandibular joint disorders (TMDs). The significant improvement observed in depression symptoms, while small, could imply a potential mental health benefit of splint therapy. Similarly, the improvement in oral health-related quality of life with occlusal splints indicates a specific benefit for oral health perceptions and related quality of life.ConclusionsThe meta-analysis suggests that occlusal splint therapy has a limited and variable impact on the psychosocial and quality of life outcomes for patients presenting with temporomandibular disorders (TMDs).

Mandibular buccal shelf asymmetry and bone density in vietnamese adults: a CBCT study

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMT

ObjectivesTo assess using CBCT, the mandibular buccal shelf (MBS) bone thickness asymmetry and its relationship with cortical and cancellous bone density in Vietnamese adults presenting with Class I bimaxillary protrusion (Class I BP) and skeletal Class III malocclusions.Materials and MethodsCBCT scans of 60 Vietnamese adults (30 Class I BP: 7 males, 23 females, mean age 27.63 years; 30 Class III: 15 males, 15 females, mean age 23.63 years) were analysed. Total bone thickness (dTB) was measured at 6, 9, and 12 mm below the cementoenamel junction at the mandibular first and second molars (R6G, R6X, R7G, R7X). Cortical (MĐV) and cancellous (MĐX) bone density were evaluated. Left-right asymmetry was tested using Wilcoxon or t-tests, and correlations were assessed using Spearman’s rho coefficient (P<0.05).ResultsClass I BP cases showed significant left-right asymmetry in dTB at R6G and R6X (e.g., R6G 6 mm: 1.57±0.93 mm vs. 2.25±1.38 mm, P=0.004). The Class III group showed no asymmetry (P>0.05). No significant correlations were found between dTB and MĐV or MĐX (e.g., Class I BP, R7X 12 mm: r=-0.087, P=0.646 for MĐV). No intergroup differences in dTB were observed (P>0.05).ConclusionsA Class I BP malocclusion exhibited MBS asymmetry at R6G and R6X, unlike a symmetrical Class III malocclusion. No correlation between bone thickness and density suggested independent adaptations, aiding miniscrew placement in Vietnamese adults.

Evaluation of the responses from different chatbots to frequently asked patient questions about impacted canines

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMT

BackgroundTo evaluate the responses given by ChatGPT 4.0, Google Gemini 1.5 and Claude 3.5 Sonnet chatbots to questions about impacted canines in relation to reliability, accuracy and readability.MethodsThirty-five questions were posed to 3 different chatbots and 105 responses were received. The answers were evaluated in relation to reliability (Modified DISCERN), accuracy (Likert scale and Accuracy of Information Index (AOI)) and readability (Flesch-Kincaid Reading Ease Score (FRES) and Flesch-Kincaid grade level (FKGL)). Statistical significance was set at p<0.05.ResultsGemini had the highest modified DISCERN score (33.66 ± 2.64), followed by Claude (29.70 ± 3.08) and ChatGPT (28.13 ± 2.83). ChatGPT had the highest mean Likert score (4.76 ± 0.43), while Claude and Gemini had 4.71 ± 0.47 and 4.66 ± 0.47, respectively. For the AOI index, ChatGPT had the highest mean score (8.67 ± 0.55), which was statistically significant when compared to others (ChatGPT vs Claude: p=0.042, ChatGPT vs Gemini: p=0.036). All chatbots showed similar readability FRES and FKGL scores without any significant differences (p=0.121 and p=0.377, respectively). Claude expressed responses with significantly fewer words than the other chatbots (Claude vs ChatGPT: p=0.019, Claude vs Gemini: p=0.001) and ChatGPT was the AI service that used the most words (239.74 ± 114.21).ConclusionsIn answering questions about impacted canines, Gemini showed good, while ChatGPT and Claude provided moderate reliability. All chatbots achieved high scores for accuracy. However, the responses were difficult to understand for anyone below a college reading level. Chatbots can serve as a resource for patients seeking general information about impacted canines, potentially enhancing and expediting clinician–patient communication. However, it should be noted that the readability of chatbot-generated texts may pose challenges, thereby affecting overall comprehension. Moreover, due to patient-specific, case-based variations, the most accurate interpretation should be provided by the patient’s healthcare professional. In the future, improved outcomes across all parameters may be achieved through advancements in chatbot technology and increased integration between healthcare providers.

Digital workflow to fabricate a 3D-printed monobloc mandibular advancement appliance for primary snoring and obstructive sleep apnoea

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 00:00:00 GMT

ObjectiveMandibular advancement appliances (MAAs) are used to treat primary snoring and obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) by advancing the mandible to maintain upper airway patency during sleep. The conventional fabrication of custom-made MAAs requires skilled technicians and specialised laboratories, resulting in longer processing times and higher outsourcing costs. Advancements in 3D-printing technology offer an efficient in-office alternative. The present paper aims to demonstrate the potential of digital technology in fabricating in-office, 3D-printed, non-adjustable monobloc MAAs.MethodsThe fabrication and refinement processes of non-adjustable monobloc MAAs were carried out on three patients of whom two presented with primary snoring and one with mild OSA. The appliances were designed using Appliance Designer™ software (3Shape, Copenhagen, Denmark) and 3D-printed with a stereolithography printer (Uniz 3D printer, San Diego, US) using Ortho Flex resin (NextDent, The Netherlands).ResultsOne MAA was made for each patient and incorporated specific refinement strategies to optimise fit and retention. Improvements in snoring were noted in all patients. The Apnoea-Hypopnoea index (AHI) was normalised from 11.2 to 4.6 for the patient with mild OSA.Conclusion3D-printed MAAs were successfully employed to manage patients presenting with primary snoring and mild OSA. The digital workflow for fabricating 3D-printed MAAs, including refinement strategies to enhance fit and retention was presented, thereby laying the groundwork for future investigations and the development of in-office 3D-printed MAAs.

In vitro evaluation of the caries-preventive effect of bioactive resin composites for orthodontic clear aligner attachments

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 00:00:00 GMT

AimThe increased risk of caries during orthodontic treatment is a significant prevention challenge. This in vitro study aimed to evaluate the caries-preventive potential of bioactive composites used in clear aligner attachments.MethodsA bioactive composite group consisted of Activa Bioactive Restorative (Pulpdent, USA), while a traditional flowable composite group included G-Aenial Universal Flo (GC, Japan). A total of 24 sound extracted human teeth were cleaned using pumice, and all surfaces except for a 3 × 3 mm area on the buccal crown were coated with acid resistant varnish. Standard acid etching and bonding protocols were applied to the exposed area, after which clear aligner attachments were created using a mould. The specimens underwent pH cycling, consisting of immersion in a demineralising solution for 48 hours followed by immersion in a remineralising solution for 24 hours, repeated three times. Sections were obtained from the attachment areas, and demineralisation depths were measured using a digital microscope. Statistical analysis was performed using an independent samples t-test.ResultsThe mean lesion depth for the bioactive composite (Activa Bioactive Restorative) was 120 ± 29 μm, while the traditional flowable composite (G-Aenial Universal Flo) exhibited a mean lesion depth of 150 ± 41 μm. According to the t-test results, significantly less demineralisation depth was observed in the bioactive composite group (p < 0.05).ConclusionUnder in vitro conditions, bioactive composites exhibited lower demineralisation depths compared to traditional flowable composites. The findings suggest that bioactive composites may offer caries-preventive benefits when used in clear aligner attachments, although further studies are needed to confirm the effects.

Accuracy of linear smartphone measurements compared to a digital single lens reflex camera

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 00:00:00 GMT

ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to compare the accuracy and reproducibility of linear measurements on photographs taken using a smartphone and a DSLR camera, using the DSLR camera as the gold standard for comparison.Materials and methodsA total of 120 clinical photographs were taken of 30 participants who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Each participant had four standardised photographs captured: one extraoral and one intraoral view using a smartphone (Xiaomi) and repeated using a DSLR camera. Five linear measurements from the extraoral photographs and four linear measurements from the intraoral photographs were recorded. Measurements were analysed using an image software program with a precision of 0.01mm. Accuracy was assessed using the paired t-test/Wilcoxon signed ranks test while reproducibility was assessed using the paired t-test/Wilcoxon signed ranks test and ICC.ResultsThe mean differences in measurements for the photographs captured with a DSLR camera and a smartphone were statistically significant, with the smartphone measurements consistently smaller. The reproducibility was excellent for the extraoral measurements and good to excellent for the intraoral measurements while the paired t-test showed no identified statistical differences.ConclusionLinear measurements taken from the tested android smartphone (Xiaomi Mi 10T Pro) were consistently underestimated compared to a DSLR gold standard, but intraoral discrepancies were clinically acceptable and measurement reproducibility rated good to excellent. These findings apply only to the device evaluated and should not be generalised to other smartphone models.