Tooth mobility is a frequently encountered clinical finding and can lead to discomfort and impairedmasticatory function. Its primary causes include alveolar bone loss due to periodontitis, occlusal trauma,or a combination of both. This review summarizes current evidence on the etiology, assessment, and treatmentindications for tooth mobility in the context of periodontal disease. While tooth mobility may affectclinical attachment level (CAL) and long-term prognosis, many mobile teeth can be preserved over time.Therefore, mobility alone should not be considered an indication for extraction. Splinting can be useful asan adjunctive approach to enhance functional stability but does not directly promote periodontal healing.The influence of occlusal trauma on the progression of periodontitis has been suggested in animal models;however, causal relationships in humans remain unclear. Diagnosis of occlusal trauma often relies on presumptiveclinical findings, with particular attention required for “progressive mobility,” which may indicatea pathological state. This article reviews the basic and clinical research on tooth mobility, highlightingcurrent understanding, diagnostic challenges, and therapeutic strategies.

View full abstract

Background: Zirconia ceramics are increasingly used for monolithic restorations due to theirfavorable mechanical and esthetic properties. However, their wear behavior against opposing enamel,particularly after different surface finishing procedures, remains a concern. Objective: This studyaimed to evaluate the influence of various polishing protocols on the wear of anatomic contour yttriastabilizedtetragonal zirconia polycrystal (Y-TZP) and an opposing enamel-mimicking material.Methods: Disk-shaped enamel-mimicking specimens (carbonate apatite, C/P=1, sintered at 800 °C)were fabricated. Y-TZP zirconia antagonists (Ø3mm, 6mm thick) were prepared and assigned tofour groups: (1) Polished with 4000-grit SiC paper (Struers)(ZP); (2) ZP + grinding with vitrifieddiamond (Shofu)(ZPG); (3) ZPG + polishing with Zircoshine (coarse, medium, fine; Shofu)(ZPGP);(4) ZPGP + polishing with Zircon-Brite (DVA)(ZPGPP). Two-body wear testing was performed (75N,10,000 cycles, 30° rotation, 37°C water). Zirconia wear was assessed by thickness decrease; enamelmimickingwear was measured as maximum surface depth (Rz, μm). Results: Significant differencesin wear were observed for the enamel-mimicking specimens. Wear (Rz) was greatest for ZPG (125.7μm), followed by ZPGP (13.8μm), ZPGPP (8.7μm), and ZP (1.8μm). No significant differences in wearwere detected among the zirconia specimens across the four finishing protocols. Conclusion: Withinthe limitations of this in vitro study, mirror-polished zirconia resulted in minimal wear of the opposingenamel-mimicking material.

View full abstract

Lithium disilicate glass-ceramics, evolving from IPS Empress 2 (IVOCLAR VIVADENT) toe.max CAD (IVOCLAR VIVADENT), have been widely utilized for esthetic all-ceramic restorations.Effective bonding of these ceramics necessitates hydrofluoric acid (HF) etching, typically followed bysilane application. As ceramic strength is influenced by surface defects, HF etching, while crucial foradhesion, could potentially compromise the material's mechanical integrity. This study investigatedthe effect of HF acid etching duration on a lithium disilicate core material's surface characteristicsand flexural strength. Specimens were subjected to varying HF etching times. Within the limitationsof this study, HF acid treatment, applied for durations clinically relevant for bonding, did notsignificantly alter the flexural strength of the lithium disilicate material.

View full abstract

Accurate centric relation (CR) acquisition is fundamental to occlusal examination, yetstandardized methods and their diagnostic implications remain debated. The variability inCR recording techniques can lead to operator-dependent outcomes, potentially hinderingpatient understanding and treatment efficacy, especially considering the multifactorialnature of occlusal problems. This report explores the rationale and utility of combiningCR acquisition methods in routine occlusal examinations. We discuss how a multimethodapproach may enhance diagnostic accuracy, improve patient communication bydemonstrating occlusal relationships, and contribute to a more comprehensive understandingof mandibular position for individualized treatment planning.

View full abstract

This study evaluated the correlation between temporomandibular joint (TMJ) internalderangement and the intercuspal position (ICP) to retrusive contact position (RCP) discrepancy.Seventy-one individuals (13 male, 58 female) were assessed via MRI and grouped as: normal TMJ,TMJ disk displacement, or mandibular condylar changes. The ICP-RCP discrepancy significantlyincreased with the severity of TMJ pathology: 0.09 mm (normal), 0.96 mm (disk displacement),and 1.80 mm (condylar changes). While unilateral TMJ alterations were associated with anincreased discrepancy, no significant difference was observed between unilateral and bilateralinvolvement. Joint effusion did not significantly affect the discrepancy. These findings suggestthat TMJ internal derangement contributes to a progressively larger ICP-RCP discrepancy as thecondition worsens.

View full abstract

This case report describes the comprehensive multidisciplinary management of a patient with nonsyndromicoligodontia and associated dental malalignment. 【Case summary】 The 24-year-old malepresented with chief complaints concerning his dental alignment and anterior esthetics. 【Treatmentplan and progress】Treatment plan was established based on an orthodontic setup model providedby the orthodontist and a diagnostic wax-up provided by the dental technician. Implant-anchoredorthodontic therapy was utilized for tooth alignment and space management. Subsequently, morphologicalabnormalities of the maxillary anterior teeth were addressed with prosthetic rehabilitation using laminateveneers. 【Conclusion】 This integrated approach, combining implant therapy, orthodontics, and prosthetictreatment, successfully achieved significant esthetic and functional restoration for the patient.

View full abstract

Conventional crown lengthening procedures can be invasive, involving full-thickness flaps and ostectomies,contributing to patient burden and prolonged healing. This article introduces a minimally invasive crownlengthening technique using a multipurpose dental ultrasonic device. The method comprises gingivectomyunder infiltration anesthesia, followed by a closed-flap, ultrasonically guided osteotomy. An esthetic gingivalline, pre-designed to respect biological width, guides the precise osseous recontouring. Key advantagesinclude minimal debridement, typically no sutures, leading to predictable outcomes, simplified postoperativemanagement, and reduced patient morbidity. This ultrasonic-assisted technique presents a reliable, lessinvasive alternative for achieving optimal gingival contours.

View full abstract