Relevance. Treating caries in deciduous teeth remains one of the most complex challenges in pediatric dentistry. The bond strength between the enamel and dentin of deciduous teeth and restorative materials is crucial for the durability of hard tissue restorations in these teeth. This article evaluates the adhesive strength of restorative materials to the enamel and dentin of deciduous teeth using a universal adhesive system, both with and without prior etching with orthophosphoric acid.

Purpose. To assess the adhesive bond strength of dental filling materials to the hard tissues of deciduous teeth, contingent upon the enamel and dentin etching techniques used with a universal adhesive system.

Materials and methods. This study measured the adhesive strength of a composite filling material to the enamel and dentin of deciduous teeth using a universal adhesive system. The methods included both the absence of preliminary etching with 37% orthophosphoric acid (self-etch technique) and the application of preliminary etching of enamel and dentin with 37% orthophosphoric acid (total-etch technique). Sixty extracted deciduous teeth from children aged 6-8 years were used. Adhesive strength was assessed using the shear test of the filling material in cylinder form against the substrate surface.

Results. Significant differences were observed in the adhesive bond strength of the composite material to the hard tissues of deciduous teeth when using 37% orthophosphoric acid before applying the adhesive system (total-etch technique) compared to no preliminary etching (self-etch technique). When filling carious lesions in deciduous teeth, if the defect is within the enamel, etching the surface with 37% orthophosphoric acid significantly (by two-fold) enhances the adhesive strength of the bond with the composite material using a universal adhesive. However, when repairing defects located deeper than the enamel layer in deciduous teeth, no statistically significant differences were observed in the adhesive strength with or without dentin etching. The optimal adhesive bond strength of composite materials to the hard tissues of deciduous teeth under laboratory conditions was attained by selectively etching the enamel with 37% orthophosphoric acid, followed by the application of a universal adhesive system to both the enamel and dentin.

Relevance. Xerostomia, commonly known as dry mouth, is a prevalent orofacial disorder among pregnant women experiencing isthmic-cervical insufficiency. This condition manifests as a burning sensation in the mouth, pain, and discomfort during eating. A clear correlation exists between pain, taste alterations, and the perception of oral dryness, highlighting the multifaceted impact of xerostomia on affected individuals. Pregnant women with isthmic-cervical insufficiency, a complication that significantly increases the risk of preterm labor, are particularly susceptible to xerostomia. This condition is often accompanied by heightened psycho-emotional stress, which can exacerbate the symptoms of dry mouth. Despite the multitude of treatments available for xerostomia, the primary objective for dentists is to formulate an appropriate and effective treatment plan, tailored to the physiological needs of the patient. This study evaluates the efficacy of Argymax spray in alleviating xerostomia in pregnant women with isthmic-cervical insufficiency.

Materials and methods. A study was conducted involving 84 pregnant women who were assessed and treated over a three-week period to evaluate the rate of mixed saliva secretion. Subjective data were collected using a five-point scale to analyze the reduction in pain potential, itching, and burning. Hygienic and periodontal indices were determined before therapy and three months after the use of the spray.

Results. The study demonstrated that Argymax spray begins to act within seven days of initial application and maintains its effectiveness throughout the observation period.

Conclusion. Hormonal changes during pregnancy affect both the overall body and the condition of the oral cavity, making it particularly vulnerable. Early diagnosis and appropriate management strategies can prevent the development of several oral mucosal diseases associated with xerostomia. Argymax spray is recommended as symptomatic therapy for the treatment of xerostomia in pregnant women with isthmic-cervical insufficiency.

Relevance. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pathology, along with the resultant facial asymmetry, is a common condition within maxillofacial disorders. Addressing the rehabilitation of these patients within specialised medico-social care is a crucial and challenging task.

Purpose. To develop a comprehensive rehabilitation protocol for patients with severe asymmetric jaw deformities caused by TMJ pathology.

Materials and methods. From 2018 to 2023, ten patients with defects and deformities of the TMJ condylar process, presenting with severe asymmetric jaw deformities, were treated. An assessment of subjective and objective facial aesthetic parameters was conducted based on photographic protocols, as well as 2D and 3D cephalometric facial measurements. Comprehensive preparation for orthognathic surgery with simultaneous endoprosthesis replacement was performed based on the collected data. A regimen of postoperative therapeutic procedures was prescribed following the surgery.

Results. All patients achieved the intended statistically significant outcomes: in the sagittal plane, an improvement in facial profile was noted based on the position of the chin (Pog) relative to the true vertical line passing through the subnasale point. In the frontal plane, alignment of the occlusal plane and normalization of the central line of the upper and lower incisors relative to the midline of the face were observed.

Conclusion. The algorithm for the comprehensive preparation of patients with asymmetric jaw deformities, developed during growth, prior to performing orthognathic surgery with simultaneous TMJ endoprosthesis replacement should include: orthodontic treatment aimed at aligning teeth position and dental arches, eliminating rotations and pathological inclinations of teeth using a bracket system, fully restoring interocclusal height with temporary implant-supported structures, using occlusal splints and temporary composite restorations, as well as employing separating orthodontic plates. These stages enabled the achievement of good aesthetic results and improved patients' quality of life.

Relevance. Malocclusion often cause morphofunctional and aesthetic disturbances in the dentoalveolar system, and the lack of nasal breathing in children exacerbates existing deviations.

Purpose. To assess morphofunctional parameters and quality of life indicators in children with impaired nasal breathing.

Materials and methods. Photometric facial analysis, cephalometric and anthropometric calculations, anterior active rhinomanometry, and an oral health-related quality of life questionnaire for children (OHRQoL) were conducted.

Results. In patients with impaired nasal breathing, social and family well-being parameters were reduced in the quality of life assessment.

Conclusion. An orthodontist can determine the causes and degree of nasal breathing impairment by analyzing teleradiographs, orthopantomograms, and studying the quality of life in children. This aids in interdisciplinary planning for early diagnosis and treatment of children with maxillary constriction.

Relevance. The successful completion of the rehabilitation process for patients with complex congenital defects, specifically those with a combination of orofacial clefts (OFC) and malformations in other organs and systems, presents a significant challenge. This challenge is pertinent not only to medical practice but also to the socio-psychological development of the child.

Objective. To identify predictive factors that diminish the success of the rehabilitation process in patients with congenital OFC combined with malformations in other organs and systems by systematising and addressing these factors at various stages of specialised care.

Materials and methods. An analysis of medical records was conducted for 2,475 patients with congenital orofacial clefts (OFC) over a 24-year period (1998-2022) who were under dispensary observation at the "Bonum" Center in Yekaterinburg. Among these patients, 823 (33.25%) had OFC combined with malformations in other organs and systems. A comprehensive study was conducted among these 823 individuals within the framework of dynamic observation and treatment, focusing on patients who had reached 18 years of age and were subsequently removed from dispensary observation. The study included an examination of staged treatment and discharge summaries, alongside the clinical characteristics of the restored midface area following surgical correction of OFC amidst correction for concomitant congenital malformations.

Results. Among the 823 individuals surveyed, a retrospective study registered 591 (71.81%) who had completed the main stages of comprehensive specialised care amidst concomitant malformations, while the remaining 232 (28.19%) continue to receive combined rehabilitation. Within the 591 patients, a subgroup of 123 (20.81%) individuals who had reached 18 years of age, completed the full cycle of medical-social rehabilitation at the "Bonum" Center, and were removed from dispensary observation due to age, was selected and studied in detail. Questionnaires, parent interviews, and analysis of the results obtained were conducted. The study identified predictive factors reducing the effectiveness of the rehabilitation process in patients with congenital orofacial clefts (OFC) combined with malformations in other organs and systems.

Conclusion. The multifaceted study conducted has facilitated the identification and systematisation of predictive factors that reduce the success of the rehabilitation process. Consequently, this enables the enhancement of comprehensive specialised treatment outcomes for this category of patients.

Relevance. Palatoplasty is a technically demanding reconstructive surgery for congenital full-thickness defects of the palate, with more than 20% of cases reporting postoperative complications. The primary cause of these complications is chronic oral inflammation. To mitigate inflammatory reactions, medications with antibacterial, bactericidal, and antiseptic properties are employed. Given the age-specific characteristics of children and the presence of full-thickness palate defects, it is essential to administer anti-inflammatory medications in an adapted, prolonged, and safe form. Consequently, we have developed a prolonged-release phytocomplex in the form of lozenges.

Purpose. To evaluate the effectiveness of a prolonged-release phytocomplex in preventing postoperative complications in children following palatoplasty.

Materials and methods. This study presents clinical and laboratory examination data from 90 children aged 2.5 to 5 years with cleft palate who underwent palatoplasty, and 45 healthy children aged 3 to 8 years. The study involved measuring the levels of secretory immunoglobulin IgA in the oral fluid using the 'IgA Secretory ELISA-BEST' reagent kit, cytokines (interleukins-2, 4, 6), and gamma-interferon through enzyme immunoassay with kits from 'Vector Best' (Russia), and lysozyme using the Lysozyme-96 kit.

Results. It was observed that following the use of the prolonged-release phytocomplex, the levels of sIgA, lysozyme, and interleukins-2, 4, and 6 in the oral fluid of the children were significantly elevated compared to the control group. Additionally, the gamma-interferon levels returned to normal.

Conclusion. The findings of this study demonstrate the positive antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and woundhealing effects of the developed prolonged-release phytocomplex in the form of lozenges.

Relevance. One of the challenges in endodontic treatment is preventing the presence or introduction of pathogenic flora into the root canal. Modern treatment protocols aim to maintain aseptic conditions throughout all stages of treatment. Before the final sealing of the root canal, it is dried using endodontic paper points (absorbers). Using previously opened packages of absorbers can pose a risk of contamination by environmental microorganisms.

Purpose. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of microbial decontamination of endodontic absorbent paper points using various ultraviolet (UV) irradiation treatments.

Materials and methods. The study used standard endodontic absorbent paper points, manufactured by compressing paper into cone shapes of various sizes, designed to remove residual moisture from the root canal. The experiment was conducted at the subdivisions of KubSMU of the Ministry of Health of Russia. During the study, absorbers were placed in a bactericidal UV chamber for 1, 3, and 7 days according to the study design. Subsequently, the paper points were immersed in nutrient media and incubated. Results were recorded daily by visually checking for signs of microbial growth (turbidity, sediment, flakes, and other changes in the media). Decontamination was considered complete in the absence of microbial growth in all test tubes. The comparison of the number of positive results was performed using the analysis of four-field contingency tables (comparison of percentage shares in two groups) using the Chi-square test with Yates' correction for independent groups and the McNemar test for dependent groups using Statistica 8.0 software (StatSoft, USA).

Results. Analysis of the results from culturing the test samples in nutrient media confirms the safe use of endodontic absorbent paper points immediately after opening the commercial package. In the model used, microbial growth was observed in 22.2% of cases on various media. No positive results for bacterial or fungal contamination were found in samples after treatment. Comparison of the proportion of positive contamination results showed a statistically significant difference according to the McNemar test (p = 0.027). Similarly, a statistically significant difference in the proportions of positive contamination results was observed when comparing with the control group using the Chi-square test with Yates' correction for independent samples (p = 0.009).

Conclusion. The study demonstrated that using a UV chamber for storing and decontaminating endodontic absorbent paper points is effective after just one day, significantly reducing the risk of microbial complications in endodontic treatment.

Relevance. The prevalence of various types of orthodontic pathology among the Russian population is quite high. Depending on the region, malocclusion are registered in 30.9% to 76.5% of cases. The high prevalence of orthodontic pathology and the unresolved issues related to both the pathology itself and the presence of concomitant diseases indicate the necessity for personalized methods of prevention and treatment of malocclusion during both the primary and mixed dentitions, which in 70-84% of cases are treated using both removable and fixed orthodontic appliances.

Materials and methods. An observational study was conducted to identify factors contributing to the increased intensity of caries among children aged 6 to 11 with orthodontic pathology. The study evaluated the characteristics of hygiene knowledge and skills, as well as the Approximal Plaque Index (API), in children using various orthodontic appliances. To assess hygiene knowledge levels, a survey was administered to two groups of children aged 6-11: those undergoing orthodontic treatment and those who visited the dental clinic for a routine check-up and were diagnosed with orthodontic pathology. The questionnaire included questions about the primary and supplementary tools and practices for daily oral hygiene, the frequency of hygiene activities, and the patients' awareness of the importance of professional oral hygiene.

Results. Factors that statistically significantly influence the level of hygiene and the Approximal Plaque Index (API) were identified. A computer program was developed to forecast the dynamics of oral hygiene levels (based on the API index) when using different orthodontic appliances. An algorithm for predicting changes in the API hygiene index was created, considering the use of orthodontic appliances, oral status, adherence to hygiene procedures, presence of harmful habits, and dietary behaviors. Negative factors significantly impacting hygiene levels include bruxism and daily consumption of sweets, while positive factors include adherence to the recommended frequency and duration of tooth brushing (at least twice a day) and the use of a medium-hard toothbrush when permanent teeth are erupting. During orthodontic treatment, additional negative factors impacting hygiene status include gingival bleeding (gingivitis), lack of lip closure, and harmful habits. The study of changes in hygiene levels over one year of treatment with various orthodontic appliances (braces, Haas appliance, SPA) showed that the fixed Haas appliance for treating dental and maxillofacial anomalies is the most favorable orthodontic design for mixed dentition.

Conclusion. Factors significantly affecting the level of oral hygiene have been identified. The dynamics of the API hygiene index with various orthodontic appliances have been established. The most favorable appliance for mixed dentition is the HAAS appliance for rapid palatal expansion.

Relevance. Acute respiratory infections account for over 90% of infectious diseases in children. These children are classified as frequently ill, representing a significant concern in contemporary pediatrics. The presence of odontogenic infections further depletes their immunity and acts as a persistent source of sensitisation for the child's body.

Materials and methods. A clinical-laboratory longitudinal prospective study was conducted on 477 children aged 12 and 15 years. The children were categorised into groups based on their risk of developing caries (minimal, moderate, high). Oral health status was assessed using the DMF index, oral hygiene was evaluated using the OHI-S index, and periodontal tissue condition was assessed using the PMA index. The activity of cariogenic flora aggression enzymes was measured by the level of salivary sialidase. The child's health status was evaluated using the infection index and the recurrence index. The schoolchildren were recommended a course of a preparation consisting of a combination of the probiotic Streptococcus salivarius M18 (at least 5 x 10^8 CFU) and vitamin D3 (320 IU or 8 µg of vitamin D3) at a dosage of one tablet per day, taken sublingually, for two months twice a year.

Results. The study identified moderate correlations between salivary sialidase levels and several indicators, including the gingivitis index, the quantity of dental plaque, and the increase in sialidase activity in saliva. The level of salivary sialidase is regarded as a marker for plaque formation and the extent of periodontal tissue inflammation. Comprehensive oral sanitation, coupled with the strategic use of immunoprophylactic agents, resulted in significant improvements in oral health indicators (OHI-S, PMA, caries reduction) and specific child health metrics (infection index, recurrence index). Additionally, there was a notable reduction in salivary sialidase levels. The method demonstrated the highest efficacy in 12-year-old children who were at high risk of developing caries.

Conclusion. The obtained data should be considered when planning individual therapeutic and preventive measures for schoolchildren with varying risks of developing caries and differing overall health statuses. Probiotic-based preparations should be incorporated into these measures.

Relevance. Children suffering from hemophilia primarily receive dental care when they present with acute tooth pain or exacerbation of an existing condition. Due to the rarity (orphan nature) of hereditary coagulopathies, dentists often lack the experience and knowledge to utilize modern methods of prevention and treatment for this patient category. Additionally, the lack of regular dental check-ups for children with hemophilia often leads to a high level of oral morbidity and a need for specific treatments, as indicated by literature data.

Materials and methods. The primary methods used to assess oral health in children with hemophilia included detailed questioning, detection of carious lesions in dental hard tissues, assessment of oral hygiene, and the condition of periodontal tissues.

Results. Among pediatric patients with hemophilia, poor oral hygiene was associated with a high prevalence of carious lesions (100%) and very high caries intensity values (8.8, ranging from 7 to 11). Additionally, there was a relatively high prevalence of gingival inflammation, accompanied by pronounced gingival bleeding. A direct correlation was identified between the level of oral hygiene and the degree of gingival bleeding in children aged 6-17 years with hemophilia. The deterioration of dental indicators corresponded to the severity of hemophilia, the primary disease in these children.

Conclusion. The study demonstrated that pediatric patients with hemophilia, particularly those with moderate to severe forms, had significantly worse indicators of oral hygiene, dental hard tissues, and gingival health compared to generally healthy children. The results indicate the necessity for dental monitoring and rehabilitation for children with hemophilia to detect and effectively treat oral diseases at early stages.

Relevance. Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) often progresses to a chronic form that is challenging to treat with established methods. This issue is well known to dentists and frequently leads to frustration despite significant efforts to advance knowledge in the fields of etiopathogenesis, diagnosis, and therapy. Most treatment protocols focus on normalizing physiological parameters, such as restoring masticatory function, achieving stable occlusal relationships, alleviating pain, and enhancing the psychological well-being of these patients. Therefore, the need for non-invasive diagnostics to assess functional activity and monitor the condition of masticatory muscles during treatment is crucial. This study aims to address this need.

Materials and methods. The examination and treatment of 64 patients with myofascial pain syndrome were conducted in two stages—clinical and electromyographic. During the clinical examination, tenderness of the masticatory muscles during palpation and the degree of mouth opening were assessed. The electromyographic research was also conducted in two stages. The first stage assessed the average amplitude and total biopotential of the masticatory and temporal muscles on both the right and left sides. The second stage evaluated the symmetry index of the masticatory muscles, as well as torsion and masseter indices. The first group received conventional treatment combined with laser therapy, while the second group received ozone therapy and kinesiology taping in addition to the conventional therapy.

Results. In the short-term observations over 14 days, both groups achieved positive results. However, patients undergoing ozone therapy and kinesiology taping showed statistically significant improvements in their parameters by the third day of observation compared to their baseline values.

Conclusion. For diagnosing this pathology, it is advisable to incorporate electromyography into the examination protocol to allow non-invasive evaluation of the functional activity of the masticatory muscles. For treating myofascial pain syndrome, minimally invasive methods with anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and muscle relaxant effects are recommended. While all treatment methods yielded favorable results, ozone therapy combined with kinesiology taping effectively eliminated both subjective and objective symptoms in this patient category.

Relevance. Distal occlusion is one of the most frequently encountered anomalies in orthodontic practice among patients with both temporary and permanent dentitions. When selecting a treatment method for this anomaly, it is crucial to consider several significant factors, including the craniofacial stage of skeletal maturity and the type of jaw growth. Special attention should be given to the method of treating patients with incomplete skeletal growth using a twin-block appliance, followed by continued orthodontic treatment with fixed orthodontic appliances (braces).

Clinical case description. This article presents a clinical case of treating a patient with distal occlusion in the peripubertal stage of skeletal growth, which is the most optimal for the initial stage of orthodontic treatment.

Conclusion. Sequential treatment of distal occlusion during the pubertal growth spurt using a twin-block appliance and braces allows achieving the most physiological jaw relationship, ensuring proper functioning of the dentoalveolar system and harmonious development of the body as a whole.

Relevance. Retention cysts of the salivary glands are a frequent occurrence in dental practice. Traditional treatments, such as cystadenectomy and cystotomy, are commonly employed. However, these procedures are associated with postoperative complications, including recurrence, damage to adjacent structures (e.g., ducts of neighbouring salivary glands, blood vessels, and nerves), and inadvertent opening of the submandibular salivary gland capsule.

Description of clinical cases. This paper presents clinical cases of four pediatric patients diagnosed with retention cysts of the salivary glands, treated at the Department of Pediatric Maxillofacial Surgery, Russian University of Medicine. All patients received treatment with "Lauromacrogol-400" ("Ethoxysclerol") and "Bleomycin." In the postoperative period, no complications or adverse effects related to the administered drugs were observed. Follow-up examinations revealed no clinical manifestations of retention cysts or ultrasonographic evidence of cysts.

Conclusions. Sclerotherapy using "Ethoxysclerol" and "Bleomycin" for the treatment of retention cysts of the salivary glands presents a viable minimally invasive alternative to conventional surgical methods, potentially mitigating the risks associated with more invasive procedures.