ORIGINAL ARTICLE
Relevance. Collaborative assessments by maxillofacial surgeons and otolaryngologists have revealed a high prevalence of ear, nose, and throat (ENT) disorders among patients with transverse maxillary constriction. Investigating the association between adenoid hypertrophy, nasal obstruction, and maxillary narrowing is of current clinical relevance, particularly in the context of developing an interdisciplinary approach to diagnosis and treatment.
Materials and methods. A retrospective analysis was conducted on 156 medical records of patients diagnosed with transverse maxillary constriction to identify the presence of ENT-related disorders. Patients were grouped according to the type of disorder, and a treatment algorithm was developed for each subgroup.
Results. Among the 156 patients reviewed from 2023-2024, chronic conditions were identified in 65 cases, with ENT disorders present in 63 of them. In the younger age group, adenoid hypertrophy was the most prevalent condition, while nasal septum deviation predominated among older patients. A comprehensive treatment algorithm was proposed for each subgroup.
Conclusion. The findings indicate a strong association between transverse maxillary constriction and adenoid hypertrophy. A properly developed treatment algorithm ensures complete patient rehabilitation, thereby enabling harmonious development in children.
Relevance. Genetically determined metabolic disorders and the resulting hypomineralization of dental and periodontal tissues may increase the risk of inflammation and structural damage in the oral tissues of children with hypophosphatemic rickets (HR).
Materials and methods. The study involved 46 children aged 6–17 years, including 29 diagnosed with hypophosphatemic rickets (HR) and 17 practically healthy controls. Oral hygiene was assessed using the Fedorov–Volodkina Hygiene Index and the Simplified Oral Hygiene Index (OHI-S) by Green and Vermillion. The severity of dental caries and its complications in primary and permanent teeth was evaluated using the dft/DMFT and pufa/PUFA indices, respectively. Periodontal status was assessed using the PMA index, while gingival sulcus bleeding was evaluated using the Sulcus Bleeding Index (SBI). Levels of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), procalcitonin (PCT), and D-dimer in mixed saliva were measured using solid-phase enzymelinked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits (Vector-Best, Russia).
Results. Children with HR exhibited unsatisfactory oral hygiene and moderate periodontal inflammation. The pufa/ PUFA index was 7.6 times higher in this group compared to healthy controls. These clinical findings were accompanied by significant differences in salivary biochemical parameters, including elevated levels of MCP-1, VEGF, PCT, and D-dimer. A positive correlation was observed between MCP-1 and PCT, as well as between MCP-1 and VEGF (r = 0.49 and r = 0.59, respectively; p < 0.05), suggesting a potential prognostic role of these biomarkers in the development of oral inflammation in children with HR.
Conclusion. Children with hypophosphatemic rickets showed clear signs of periodontal inflammation. The detection of MCP-1, VEGF, and D-dimer in mixed saliva highlights their diagnostic potential as markers of inflammatory activity in the oral cavity in this patient population.
Relevance. This study explores the characteristics of maxillary sinus ballooning in rabbits following surgically induced trauma.
Materials and methods. The experimental setup included a physiodispenser, turbine handpiece, disc burs, bellied scalpel, hemostatic clamp, anatomical forceps, biodegradable suture, balloon tampon, and the LAKK-M laser Doppler flowmetry system.
Results. inducing surgical trauma to the anterior wall of the maxillary sinus and inserting a balloon catheter into the sinus via the nasal passage. The feasibility of investigating microcirculation in the maxillary sinus was assessed. Macro- and microscopic examinations were performed on the maxillary sinus tissue complex of three rabbits (mean body weight: 3200 ± 600 g) at the sites of balloon contact with the surgically injured area.
Conclusion. The findings confirm that rabbits with a mean body weight of 3200 ± 600 g are a suitable model for studying the effects of maxillary sinus ballooning following surgical trauma. These results are of relevance to both maxillofacial surgery and otorhinolaryngology.
Relevance. During pulpotomy procedures in primary teeth, the contamination of cavity walls by the applied pulpotomy material is unavoidable and may compromise the adhesion of restorative materials. Notably, the use of rubber dam isolation does not eliminate the risk of dentin surface contamination within the area of endodontic access. Objective. To evaluate the effect of two pulpotomy materials—one containing MTA and the other a non-MTA-based formulation with moderate fixative action—on the shear bond strength (SBS) between a composite restorative material and primary dentin when a universal adhesive system is used.
Materials and methods. This study evaluated a modern universal adhesive system (OptiBond Universal) in combination with its corresponding proprietary composite restorative material. Extracted first primary molars from 6- to 7-year-old children, removed for surgical indications, were used. Two types of pulpotomy materials were applied to the dentin surface of the specimens: an MTA-containing material (Group 1) and a non-MTA-based material with moderate fixative action (Group 2). Each material was applied for 60 seconds and then removed using a cotton roll. The SBS between the composite material and dentin was measured in accordance with GOST R 51202-98. Morphological evaluation of the specimens before and after testing was conducted using fluorescent microscopy at magnifications of ×30, ×250, and ×300. The Mann–Whitney U-test was used to assess the statistical significance of differences in SBS values between the two independent groups.
Results. The SBS of the composite material to primary dentin using the universal adhesive in Groups 1 and 2 indicated that exposure to the MTA-containing material did not result in a statistically significant difference in mean SBS values compared to the control group. In contrast, exposure to the non-MTA-based pulpotomy material with moderate fixative action led to a 22% reduction in the mean SBS value relative to the control group.
Relevance. Cleft lip and palate in children are among the most severe congenital anomalies and represent developmental disorders of the craniofacial region. These conditions disrupt vital functions such as breathing, sucking, swallowing, and speech development. Early and accurate diagnosis of the size and nature of the defect enables timely determination of the appropriate timing for successful surgical interventions at various stages of multidisciplinary rehabilitation. Objective. To develop and implement a clinically applicable method for the quantitative assessment of hard palate defects in children.
Materials and methods. A series of anatomical landmark measurements was performed on plaster models of 32 children with congenital clefts of the hard and soft palate, followed by calculation of a defect coefficient.
Results. A defect coefficient is proposed to help differentiate the severity of the defect, standardize the diagnostic process, and support individualized treatment planning.
Conclusion. The method proved to be highly effective and clinically applicable in craniofacial surgical practice.
Relevance. Craniofacial morphometric parameters are known to influence the characteristics of the masticatory muscles. Previous studies have demonstrated that cranial dimensions affect the structure and function of the masticatory musculature. However, there is a lack of data on the relationship between cranial morphology and the electromyographic activity of masticatory muscles—specifically, the temporalis muscle, which tends to show higher activity in children with a dolichocephalic head shape, and the masseter muscle, which is typically more developed in brachycephalic individuals. The present study aimed to assess the correlation between craniofacial morphometric characteristics and masticatory muscle activity patterns using surface electromyographic (EMG) analysis.
Materials and methods. The study involved 32 children aged 7 to 12 years. Each participant underwent a comprehensive clinical examination and surface electromyographic (EMG) assessment of the masseter and temporalis muscles to evaluate their functional activity.
Results. A mixed masticatory pattern was identified in 56.3% of participants, a temporalis-dominant pattern in 18.8%, and a masseter-dominant pattern in 24.9%. An indirect inverse correlation was observed between craniofacial morphometric parameters and the Statistical Stabilizing Occlusion Index — a calculated EMG parameter reflecting the spatial position of the functional center of masticatory muscle activity. The Pearson correlation coefficient was 0.92. As cranial index values increased, the Statistical Stabilizing Occlusion Index decreased, indicating a shift in the functional muscle activation center.
Conclusion. The study demonstrated a correlation between masticatory muscle activity patterns and craniofacial morphometric characteristics in children. These findings should be considered in the functional diagnosis and treatment planning of pediatric patients. Early intervention to correct masticatory muscle function may contribute to the prevention of certain dentofacial disorders.
Relevance. The wide range of available treatment methods often complicates the selection of an appropriate therapeutic strategy. The developed physicomathematical model enabled investigation of maxillary expansion biomechanics and supported the selection of an appropriate treatment approach.
Materials and methods. Based on an analysis of craniofacial computed tomography (CT) data, a physicomathematical modeling method for distraction osteogenesis was developed to study the biomechanics of maxillary expansion and to facilitate surgical planning in maxillofacial surgery.
Results. A physicomathematical model of distraction osteogenesis was developed that simulates the biomechanics of maxillary expansion during the distraction process. This model supports surgical planning and enables assessment of relapse risk.
Conclusion. The proposed modeling approach proved effective in optimizing treatment planning for transverse dentofacial anomalies in pediatric patients undergoing distraction osteogenesis.
Relevance. Dental caries in primary teeth remains one of the most prevalent oral health challenges in pediatric dentistry. This is attributed to both the anatomical features of these teeth and their increased vulnerability to carious lesions. Although considerable progress has been made in dental care, the management of caries in primary teeth remains a significant clinical concern. Existing treatment methods – including various restorative techniques and materials – offer specific advantages and drawbacks, highlighting the need for continued research and refinement. Developing effective strategies is crucial not only for eliminating carious lesions but also for ensuring the long-term preservation of tooth hard tissues.
Objective. To enhance the effectiveness of treating caries and its complications in primary molars by evaluating various restoration methods using an artificial intelligence program.
Materials and methods. The study involved children aged 3 to 6 years who underwent treatment for 150 primary molars diagnosed with dentin caries (K02.1) or pulpitis (K04.0). The treated teeth were categorized into groups according to diagnosis and method of hard tissue restoration. Restoration methods included composite resin, stainless steel crowns, and zirconia crowns. Each group comprised 25 teeth. Treatment outcomes were evaluated using an artificial intelligence program that analyzed radiographic images taken immediately post-treatment and at a six-month follow-up.
Results. The artificial intelligence program showed that teeth restored with stainless steel crowns demonstrated no deviations from the evaluation criteria, regardless of the initial diagnosis (dentin caries or pulpitis). In contrast, composite restorations exhibited a high rate of deviations across various criteria for both caries and pulpitis. Zirconia crowns showed no deviations when used for pulpitis treatment.
Conclusion. According to all evaluation criteria assessed by the artificial intelligence program, stainless steel crowns are recommended for the treatment of caries and its complications in primary molars.
Relevance. The tongue is a powerful muscular organ that plays a critical role in the postnatal growth and development of craniofacial structures. Disruptions in tongue posture and function are recognized as significant aetiological factors in the development of dentofacial anomalies and deformities. Clinical diagnosis of tongue dysfunction in children remains challenging due to limited patient cooperation and anatomical limitations of the oral cavity. These limitations underscore the need for improved methodological approaches and diagnostic algorithms for detecting dysfunction of this organ.
Objective. To identify the predominant swallowing pattern in children during the mixed dentition period using ultrasonographic assessment and to evaluate its association with dentofacial morphology.
Materials and methods. A total of 428 children aged 6 to 12 years (mean age 7.9 ± 1.8) were examined using clinical evaluation, electromyography, mandibular kinesiography, and a novel ultrasonographic method developed to identify the predominant swallowing pattern in children during the mixed dentition period (patent application No. 2025107573, submitted 28.03.2025). Associations between swallowing dysfunction and the development of occlusal anomalies were assessed using Pearson’s χ2 test with Yates’ correction and Cramér’s V coefficient.
Results. The prevalence of the infantile swallowing pattern (ISP) among children in the mixed dentition period was 57.7% (p < 0.05). The anterior subtype was identified in 67.9% of cases, the lateral subtype in 17.4%, and the combined subtype in 14.7%. Tongue dysfunction in anterior and lateral directions during swallowing was most frequently associated with anterior open bite (34.1%) and combined malocclusion patterns (20.6%) (p < 0.001). Notably, 13.4% of children exhibited physiological occlusion, among whom the anterior subtype of ISP was most frequently observed during spontaneous swallowing under ultrasonographic control, accounting for 19% of cases (p < 0.001).
Conclusion. Abnormal tongue posture and articulation during swallowing are closely associated with the morphological characteristics of the dentofacial complex. Functional assessment of the stomatognathic system in 86% of growing patients revealed asymmetrical mandibular movements and unbalanced muscular activity consistent with the presence of anterior, lateral, or combined ISP subtypes. These findings highlight the importance of continued investigation into the aetiology and pathogenesis of functionally induced malocclusions to clarify the predictive role of tongue dysfunction in dentofacial development during the mixed dentition period. This will help inform and enhance therapeutic, preventive, myofunctional, and speech-language interventions for children affected by this condition.
Relevance. Dental caries remains highly prevalent and severe in children during the mixed dentition period. Its development is influenced by both local and systemic factors. Although local aetiological factors of caries in children are relatively well understood, systemic health remains an important determinant of caries severity. Vitamins substantially impact metabolic processes in children and are essential in clinical practice, including pediatric dentistry. Objective. To investigate the role of selected vitamins and minerals, as measured in serum and hair, in preventing dental caries in children with low enamel mineralization.
Materials and methods. The study included 143 children aged 6 to 12 years (mean age ≈ 8.7 ± 1.3 years). Clinical examination involved the assessment of caries severity using the DMFT index and evaluation of caries increment. As prescribed by a pediatrician, blood and hair samples were collected in a clinical laboratory, and vitamin or vitamin–mineral supplements were administered accordingly.
Results. Among children who received an age-appropriate vitamin complex for three months, the DMFT index increased from 2.31 ± 0.07 to 3.43 ± 0.05 over the one-year observation period, corresponding to a caries increment of 1.12 ± 0.02. In those who received a combined vitamin–mineral supplement, the DMFT index rose from 2.10 ± 0.02 to 2.70 ± 0.80, with a lower caries increment of 0.60 ± 0.78. Among children administered an Mg + B6 supplement daily for three months, the index changed from 2.25 ± 0.02 to 2.31 ± 0.78, resulting in a caries increment of 0.85 ± 0.60. In contrast, the control subgroup showed the highest increase, with the DMFT index rising from 2.25 ± 0.02 to 4.23 ± 0.05 and a caries increment of 2.13 ± 0.03.
Conclusion. Combined supplementation with vitamins and minerals was also associated with a more favorable caries increment in this group.
REVIEW
Relevance. Numerous physiological changes affecting all body systems during pregnancy and the postpartum period can influence a woman’s overall health, including oral health. This underscores the importance of studying oral diseases that are most prevalent during these stages.
Materials and methods. A systematic search and analysis of global scientific literature published over the past 10 years was conducted using electronic databases including PubMed, Google Search, and eLibrary. Printed sources were reviewed according to the following inclusion criteria: women during pregnancy and up to one year postpartum, with uncomplicated pregnancies and vaginal deliveries, in whom the prevalence and severity of oral diseases were assessed. A total of 1843 sources were initially identified. After removing duplicates, 541 studies remained available for screening. Of these, 56 publications met the inclusion criteria and were incorporated into the systematic review and quantitative analysis.
Results. The available scientific evidence indicates both progression and structural changes in oral diseases during pregnancy. Among hard tissue conditions, acute dental caries and relapses were reported in 38–45% of cases. Early signs of periodontal disease typically appear by the second or third month of pregnancy and are correlated with gestational age, most often manifesting as catarrhal or hypertrophic gingivitis. Researchers also report an increase in dental plaque accumulation, progression of marginal gingival inflammation, and a shift in oral fluid pH toward acidity during and after pregnancy. Publications specifically addressing oral diseases in the postpartum period are scarce in both domestic and international literature. However, the limited available data suggest a continuing negative trend in oral health, extending up to two years postpartum.
Conclusion. Based on the available global literature, there is a clear need for further research into postpartum oral health due to ongoing adverse changes in the oral cavity and the overall lack of studies addressing this period.
CASE REPORT
Relevance. The skeletal form of anterior open bite accounts for up to 13.5% of all dentofacial anomalies. In such cases, the outcomes of camouflage treatment tend to be unstable and often require long-term follow-up and adjunctive speech therapy. To shorten the duration of orthodontic treatment, reduce the risk of post-treatment instability within the dentoalveolar complex, and achieve stable functional and aesthetic outcomes, it is advisable to include orthodontic treatment in combination with orthognathic surgery as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
Clinical case description. This article presents a clinical case of a patient with anterior open bite and Class II malocclusion managed post- pubertal growth spurt, a key factor guiding the decision to pursue a combined orthodontic–surgical approach.
Conclusion. Combined treatment of anterior open bite and Class II malocclusion in a post-growth patient provides stable long-term functional and aesthetic outcomes and ensures greater post-treatment stability of the dentoalveolar structures.
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