A novel and straightforward digital workflow is described to aid clinicians in producing in-office hybrid posts and cores. The method is based on scanning and using the basic module of a computer-assisted design and computer-assisted manufacturing (CAD-CAM) software program for dental applications. The applicability of the technique in a digital workflow is the simplicity of in-office production of a hybrid post and core that can be delivered to the patient in the same day.
Background/Objectives: The purpose of this study was to develop a digital workflow to incorporate the mucosal projection of the pathways of the greater palatal artery into a static surgical guide used for free gingival graft harvesting and connective-tissue grafting techniques. Methods: A cone-beam computed tomography file was uploaded and segmented using specific tools from digital design software. The artery pathways were identified and marked on cone-beam computed tomography. A standard tessellation file format was obtained and uploaded into three-dimensional mesh-processing software; this was merged into an intraoral scan file. New files were obtained and uploaded into three-dimensional modeling software. The final model with projections of the artery pathways was generated using specific tools. The digital model was uploaded into guided surgery planning software to design a digital surgical guide that could later be printed with the artery pathways marked on its surface. Results: The static surgical guide to the palatal mucosa could be used during a surgical approach for marking the safe-zone area against the artery pathways. Conclusions: The proposed technique is a viable method for visualization and marking the artery pathway projection on a static surgical guide when performing free gingival graft harvesting and connective-tissue grafting techniques.
Background/Objectives: The increasing prevalence of video gaming has raised concerns about its potential impact on musculoskeletal health, particularly temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). This study aims to compare TMD symptoms, mandibular function, and dental wear between gamers and non-gamers among university students. Methods: An observational study included 108 students aged 20 to 23 years, divided into gamers (n = 48) and non-gamers (n = 60). Participants completed questionnaires assessing TMD symptoms, gaming habits, and screen time. Clinical examinations measured mandibular movements, palpation-induced pain, and dental wear using the Smith and Knight Tooth Wear Index. Statistical analyses included independent t-tests, chi-square tests, Pearson’s correlations, and logistic regression. Seven comprehensive tables present the findings with p-values. Results: Gamers reported significantly higher screen time (Mean = 6.5 h/day) compared to non-gamers (Mean = 4.0 h/day; p < 0.001). Maximum unassisted mouth opening was greater in gamers (Mean = 48.31 mm) than in non-gamers (Mean = 46.33 mm; p = 0.04). Gamers exhibited a higher prevalence of pain on palpation of the masseter muscle (45.8% vs. 30.0%; p = 0.05). Dental wear scores were significantly higher in gamers for teeth 2.3 (upper left canine) and 3.3 (lower left canine) (p < 0.05). Positive correlations were found between hours spent gaming and maximum mouth opening (r = 0.25; p = 0.01) and dental wear (r = 0.30; p = 0.002). Logistic regression showed that gaming status significantly predicted the presence of TMD symptoms (Odds Ratio = 2.5; p = 0.03). Conclusions: Gamers exhibit greater mandibular opening, increased dental wear, and a higher prevalence of masticatory muscle pain compared to non-gamers. Prolonged gaming may contribute to altered mandibular function and increased risk of TMD symptoms. Further research is needed to explore underlying mechanisms and develop preventive strategies.