This study compared the retention of polyamide clasps engaging porcelain-fused-to-metal and zirconia retainers with identical 0.50 mm undercuts in posterior free-end saddle maxillary removable partial dentures. Four standardized acrylic resin models simulating maxillary bilateral posterior edentulous with first premolar abutments were prepared to receive either porcelain-fused-to-metal or zirconia crowns incorporating mesial occlusal rest seats. Polyamide RPA clasps were fabricated using an injection molding technique and tested for retention using a universal testing machine at a crosshead speed of 5 mm/min. The mean retention force of polyamide clasps was 6.68 ± 2.59 N for zirconia crowns and 5.47 ± 2.27 N for porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns. The results demonstrated minimal loss of retention for polyamide clasps against both ceramic materials, with no significant difference in retention related to the type of ceramic retainer.

Abstract:

This study aimed to compare the amount of stress generated on two versus four implants with equator attachments in maxillary implant overdentures with palatal coverage and palateless designs. Four standardized educational edentulous maxillary models simulating bone type II were used. The models were divided into two main groups according to palatal design (palatal coverage and palateless), and each group was further subdivided based on the number of implants (two or four implants). In the two-implant subgroup, implants were placed bilaterally in the canine regions perpendicular to the residual ridge using a surgical stent, whereas in the four-implant subgroup, implants were installed bilaterally in the canine and second premolar regions. Equator attachments with appropriate cuff heights were selected, and framework patterns were constructed. Four strain gauges were cemented to each fixture using strain gauge cement. A LLOYD digital loading device was used to apply compressive loads to measure the resulting stresses around the implants for each attachment configuration. The results demonstrated a statistically significant difference between stresses on two implants with equator attachments (74.53 ± 35.9 N/m × 10²) and four implants with equator attachments (10.85 ± 10.81 N/m × 10²) within the same palatal coverage design. Similarly, a statistically significant difference was found between stresses on two implants with equator attachments (123.75 ± 44.60 N/m × 10²) and four implants with equator attachments (14.51 ± 14.60 N/m × 10²) within the same palateless design. It was concluded that stress on two implants with equator attachments was markedly greater in the palateless design compared with the palatal coverage design, whereas stress on four implants with equator attachments was slightly greater in the palateless design than in the palatal coverage design, with no statistically significant difference.

Abstract:

This study aimed to evaluate stress distribution around two and four implants supporting maxillary implant overdentures retained by locator attachments, comparing full and partial palatal coverage designs. Four identical acrylic models representing completely edentulous maxillary arches were fabricated and covered with polyvinyl siloxane impression material to simulate the oral mucosa overlying the residual ridge. The models were divided into two main groups according to the number of installed implants (two or four), and each group was further subdivided based on palatal design (full or partial palatal coverage). Locator abutments (female components) were secured to the implants using an abutment driver, after which the prosthetic frameworks were constructed. Four strain gauges were bonded to each implant fixture using strain gauge cement to record strain values. A LLOYD digital loading device was employed to apply controlled compressive loads, and the resulting stresses around the implants were measured for each configuration.

Statistical analysis revealed a significant difference in stress values between two-implant overdentures with full palatal coverage (30.64 ± 17.47 N/m × 10²) and those with partial palatal coverage (49.72 ± 23.17 N/m × 10²), with higher stresses observed in the partial coverage design. In contrast, although four-implant overdentures with partial palatal coverage (8.77 ± 4.54 N/m × 10²) demonstrated higher mean stress values than those with full palatal coverage (5.51 ± 3.83 N/m × 10²), this difference was not statistically significant.

Within the limitations of this in vitro study, full palatal coverage design resulted in lower stress values compared to partial palatal coverage in two-implant-supported maxillary overdentures. For four-implant-supported overdentures, full palatal coverage also showed lower stress values; however, the difference was not statistically significant.

Abstract

Natural dentin repair is a biologically mediated process that preserves tooth vitality through odontoblast activity and intracellular signaling pathways. This study employed a mixed methods design, combining laboratory experiments with descriptive analytical surveys of dentists in Egypt, to investigate the mechanisms of odontoblast differentiation and assess clinical knowledge and practices related to regenerative dentistry. Laboratory analyses included microscopic and molecular techniques to evaluate cellular signaling during dentin repair, while questionnaires were distributed to 100 dentists across public and private sectors. Data were analyzed using quantitative statistics, qualitative assessments, and integrative interpretation of laboratory and clinical findings. Results revealed significant positive correlations between dentists’ knowledge of intracellular signaling and their clinical practices, with Spearman correlation coefficients ranging from 0.52 to 0.65 (p = 0.01). A majority of respondents (80%) reported experience with mesenchymal stem cell therapy for craniofacial bone remodeling or dental tissue regeneration, and 70% observed improvements in bone density, while 65% reported enhanced dental tissue regeneration. Imaging studies were widely used, with 85% of participants undergoing radiographic or CT evaluations to monitor progress. Despite these encouraging outcomes, only 35% of dentists were familiar with molecular techniques targeting signaling pathways, and just 40% reported applying clinical strategies to enhance odontoblast differentiation. Notably, 75% expressed interest in specialized training to improve their knowledge and practices in regenerative dentistry. The study concludes that while theoretical awareness of dentin repair mechanisms is relatively strong, clinical application remains limited. Bridging this gap through structured training and evidence-based protocols will be essential for integrating molecular insights into routine dental practice, thereby improving dentin repair outcomes and long-term tooth vitality.

Abstract

Periodontal disease is a multifactorial condition characterized by chronic inflammation and progressive destruction of supporting tissues, with significant implications for oral health and systemic well-being. This study investigated the correlation between inflammatory responses and regenerative outcomes in periodontal supporting tissues, emphasizing the role of epigenetic regulation. A mixed methods approach was employed, combining clinical assessments, patient-reported outcomes, and molecular analyses. Spearman correlation analysis revealed strong associations between clinical indicators of inflammation and perceived regenerative improvements, underscoring the interplay between destructive and reparative processes. Demographic and lifestyle factors, including smoking and systemic health conditions, were found to influence variability in responses. Regenerative therapies demonstrated favorable outcomes in terms of clinical attachment gain, alveolar bone support, and patient satisfaction. These findings highlight the importance of integrating epigenetic insights with clinical practice to develop personalized strategies for managing periodontal disease and enhancing tissue regeneration

Abstract

Stem cell therapy has emerged as a promising approach for craniofacial bone remodeling and dental tissue regeneration. In this study, a mixed-methods design was employed, combining laboratory analyses with clinical data from 100 participants. Results demonstrated that 80% of respondents had received mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy, with 70% reporting improvements in bone density and 65% noting enhanced dental tissue regeneration. Imaging tests confirmed progress in 85% of cases, while overall satisfaction with therapy outcomes was reported by 80–85% of participants. Correlation analysis revealed strong positive relationships between stem cell treatment and improvements in bone and dental tissues, with coefficients ranging from 0.60 to 0.70 (p < 0.01). Side effects were minimal, with only 20% reporting complications such as swelling or pain. These findings underscore the therapeutic potential of stem cell-based interventions, highlighting both their efficacy and safety. The study concludes that stem cell therapy represents a viable and effective strategy for regenerative dentistry and craniofacial surgery, though larger multicenter trials are needed to standardize protocols and validate long-term outcomes.

While most pregnant women in Gharyan city demonstrated adequate oral health knowledge, gaps persist in

preventive practices, particularly regarding fluoride use and dental visits. Education level and dental visits

during pregnancy were significant determinants of knowledge. These findings highlight the need for targeted

oral health education programs and increased access to dental services for pregnant women to improve oral

health outcomes for both mothers and their infants.

Abstract

Complete dentures remain an essential treatment option for edentulous patients, especially in regions where implant-supported prostheses are limited. Successful prosthodontic outcomes require systematic execution of clinical steps, including patient examination, impression taking, custom tray fabrication, jaw relation recording, try-in, and post-insertion management. This study aimed to assess the knowledge of complete denture fabrication among fourth-year dental students. A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed among 37 students (94.9% response rate) enrolled in 2024 at the Department of Prosthodontics, Faculty of Oral and Dental Medicine, Gharyan University. Data were collected using a validated, self-administered questionnaire covering patient assessment, primary and final impressions, custom tray design, jaw relation records, occlusal plane orientation, articulator use, try-in procedures, and post-insertion care, and analyzed descriptively.

All students (100%) reported performing histories, oral examinations, primary impressions with alginate, and centric relation registration. Knowledge gaps were observed in advanced procedures: 75.7% selected light-cure acrylic for custom trays, awareness of spacers, stops, and relief holes was limited, polyvinylsiloxane was the most frequently used final impression material (62.2%), yet 59.5% disinfected impressions improperly with water alone. None used a face bow or semi-adjustable articulators, relying solely on non-adjustable types. Students demonstrated solid foundational knowledge of basic procedures; however, deficiencies in custom tray design, post-palatal seal determination, impression disinfection, and articulator use indicate a need for enhanced clinical teaching and practical training to meet current prosthodontic standards.

Keywords. Complete Denture, Dental Students, Prosthodontics, Impression Technique.

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