In this study, dentin bond fatigue resistance and interfacial science characteristics of universal adhesives through etch-and-rinse and self-etch modes were investigated. Resin composite was bonded to human dentin with four universal adhesives, namely, Adhese Universal, All-Bond Universal, G-Premio Bond, and Scotchbond Universal Adhesive. The initial bond strengths, bond fatigue strengths, and interfacial science characteristics of the universal adhesives with dentin through etch-and-rinse and self-etch modes were determined. Bond fatigue resistance (initial bond strength and bond fatigue strength) of universal adhesives in etch-and-rinse mode showed no significant difference in contrast to that in self-etch mode and was material-dependent regardless of the etching mode. Although phosphoric acid conditioning of dentin did not have a strong impact on the bond fatigue resistance, surface free energy and parameters of dentin were significantly decreased by etching and by application of universal adhesives regardless of etching mode. Changes in γS and γSh for when universal adhesive was applied to etched and ground dentin were significantly different depending on the adhesive. The results suggest that bonding performance of universal adhesives was effective in both etching modes; however, bonding mechanisms may be different for each.

Peri-implantitis is an inflammatory condition induced by bacterial biofilm that affects the soft and hard tissues surrounding dental implants, compromising the success of implant therapy. Recent studies have highlighted the potential links between peri-implant health and systemic inflammation, including uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, psychological stress, cardiovascular disease, obesity, and infectious diseases such as COVID-19. As an inflammatory disease, peri-implantitis may trigger systemic inflammation by elevating circulating levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which could have unknown impacts on overall health. While the relationship between periodontal health and systemic conditions is better understood, the association between peri-implant disease and systemic inflammation remains unclear. Therefore, this comprehensive review aims to summarize the most recent evidence on the relationship between peri-implantitis and systemic inflammation, focusing on biological complications, microbiology, and biomarkers. This review aims to enhance our understanding of the links between peri-implantitis and systemic inflammation and promote further research in this field by discussing the latest insights and clinical implications.

The aim of this in vitro study is to compare the color stability and surface roughness of conventional and self-blending resin composites before and after staining and aging. Three conventional composites (Filtek Z350, IPS Empress Direct, and Estalite Palfique LX5) and one self-blending (Omnichroma) resin composite were used in this study. Sixty discs were prepared and polymerized in a metal mold (n = 15 per group). Samples were then finished and polished by Layan discs. Color testing and roughness testing were measured as a baseline (T0) by a spectrophotometer and profilometry. Samples were then stained with tea for 24 h, water aged for 30 days, and then a second reading (T1) was performed. Finishing and polishing were performed again, and a third reading (T2) was collected. All groups showed significant decrease in all color parameters (L*, a*, and b*); however, after polishing, all groups showed color enhancements matching pre-experiment baseline colors in all color parameters (L*, a*, and b*), except for Estelite Palfique LX5, which showed a significant difference in L relative to the baseline. Furthermore, Estalite Palfique LX5 showed increased roughness after staining compared to the baseline, unlike other groups. No significant differences in color stability were found between self-blending composites and other composite materials. Accelerated aging and staining had minimal effects on the surface roughness of self-blending composite.

Background and Objectives: The report describes a technique using a diagnostic mock-up as a crown-lengthening surgical guide to improve the gingival architecture. Materials and Methods: The patient’s primary concern was improving her smile due to her “gummy smile” and short clinical crowns. After clinical evaluation, surgical crown lengthening accompanied by maxillary central full-coverage single-unit prostheses and lateral incisor veneers was recommended. The diagnostic mock-up was placed in the patient’s maxillary anterior region and used as a soft tissue reduction guide for the gingivectomy. Once the planned gingival architecture was achieved, a flap was reflected to proceed with ostectomy in order to obtain an appropriate alveolar bone crest level using the overlay. After six months, all-ceramic crowns and porcelain veneers were provided as permanent restorations. Results: A diagnostic mock-up fabricated with a putty guide directly from the diagnostic wax-up can be an adequate surgical guide for crown-lengthening procedures. The diagnostic wax-up was used to fabricate the diagnostic mock-up. These results suggested that it can be used as a crown-lengthening surgical guide to modify the gingival architecture. Several advantages of the overlay used in the aesthetic complex case include: (1) providing a preview of potential restorative outcomes, (2) allowing for the appropriate positioning of gingival margins and the desired alveolar bone crest level for the crown-lengthening procedure, and (3) serving as a provisional restoration after surgery. Conclusions: The use of a diagnostic mock-up, which was based on a diagnostic wax-up, as the surgical guide resulted in successful crown lengthening and provisional restorations. Thus, a diagnostic overlay can be a viable option as a surgical guide for crown lengthening.

Chitosan, a natural polysaccharide sourced from crustaceans and insects, is often used with hydrogels in wound care. Evaluating its cytotoxicity and antimicrobial properties is crucial for its potential use in dentistry. Objective: To investigate the mechanical properties of gelatin hydrogels based on decaethylated chitosan and antimicrobial activity against Streptococcus mutans and their biological effects with stem cells from apical papilla (SCAPs). Material and methods: Gelatin–chitosan hydrogels were synthesized at concentrations of 0%, 0.2% and 0.5%. Enzymatic and hydrolytic degradation, along with swelling capacity, was assessed. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis was employed to characterize the hydrogels. The interaction between hydrogels and SCAPs was examined through initial adhesion and cell proliferation at 24 and 48 h, using the Thiazolyl Blue Tetrazolium Bromide (MTT assay). The antimicrobial effect was evaluated using agar diffusion and a microdilution test against S. mutans. Uniaxial tensile strength (UTS) was also measured to assess the mechanical properties of the hydrogels. Results: The hydrogels underwent hydrolytic and enzymatic degradation at 30, 220, 300 min and 15, 25, 30 min, respectively. Significantly, (p < 0.01) swelling capacity occurred at 20, 40, 30 min, respectively. Gelatin–chitosan hydrogels’ functional groups were confirmed using vibrational pattern analysis. SCAPs proliferation corresponded to 24 h = 73 ± 2%, 82 ± 2%, 61 ± 6% and 48 h = 83 ± 11%, 86 ± 2%, 44 ± 2%, respectively. The bacterial survival of hydrogel interaction was found to be 96 ± 1%, 17 ± 1.5% (p < 0.01) and 1 ± 0.5% (p < 0.01), respectively. UTS showed enhanced (p < 0.05) mechanical properties with chitosan presence. Conclusion: Gelatin–chitosan hydrogels displayed favorable degradation, swelling capacity, mild dose-dependent cytotoxicity, significant proliferation with stem cells from apical papilla (SCAPs), substantial antimicrobial effects against S. mutans and enhanced mechanical properties. These findings highlight their potential applications as postoperative care dressings.