Postoperative infection is one of the most common complications of tooth extraction. It may manifest as localized infection or develop to systemic infection. Clinically, oral surgeons can prevent postoperative infections by urging patients to strengthen oral hygiene, applying antibiotics in a rational and compliant manner, and choosing appropriate surgical methods for tooth extraction. For the treatment of infection, the oral surgeon should formulate a response strategy on the basis of different diagnoses. For local infections such as dry socket, delayed alveolar osteitis, gap infection, and marginal osteomyelitis of the jaws, the infection can be controlled by local debridement, therapeutic use of antibiotics, and incise and drain if necessary. For patients suspected of necrotizing fasciitis, timely extensive debridement should be made to reduce the area of tissue necrosis. For those who have received radiotherapy or anti-resorptive drugs, tooth extraction should follow the recommendations of the relevant clinical guidelines or expert consensus to minimize the risk of osteonecrosis of the jaws. For patients with poor systemic health or dysfunction of the immune system, attention should be paid to identifying infective endocarditis and intracranial infection to ensure the life safety of patients. In this study, the author intends to combine literature review and clinical experience to tackle postextraction infection and its prevention to provide a reference for colleagues on oral and maxillofacial surgery.

Congenital orofacial cleft, the most common birth defect in the maxillofacial region, exhibits a wide range of prognosis depending on the severity of deformity and underlying etiology. Non-syndromic congenital orofacial clefts typically present with milder deformities and more favorable treatment outcomes, whereas syndromic congenital orofacial clefts often manifest with concomitant organ abnormalities, which pose greater challenges for treatment and result in poorer prognosis. This consensus provides an elaborate classification system for varying degrees of orofacial clefts along with corresponding diagnostic and therapeutic guidelines. Results serve as a crucial resource for families to navigate prenatal screening results or make informed decisions regarding treatment options while also contributing significantly to preventing serious birth defects within the development of population.

Root canal therapy is the primary treatment method for pulpal and periapical diseases. Various advanced endodontic instruments for mechanical preparation have been marketed. The emergence of nickel-titanium rotary instruments has greatly improved the efficiency of root canal preparation. New demands have been put forward for nickel-titanium rotary instruments as a result of the deepening of clinicians’ awareness of root canal anatomy system as well as the purpose and prognosis of root canal treatment. These clinical-oriented demands accelerate instrument reform and innovation. This work presents new marketed nickel-titanium systems and discusses the advantages and limitations of these systems and how they perform in terms of the efficiency and outcome of root canal preparation.

Anterior diastema is a common esthetic defect in China. The general treatment for a patient with diastemata, including orthodontics and direct and indirect restorations, is a multidisciplinary clinical procedure covering the orthodontics, operative dentistry, general dentistry, and prosthodontics department. Given the diversity of departments and the complex etiology of this defect, decision-making regarding the closing methods and time selection is undefined and unintegrated, which makes the long-term stability of closure unpredictable. This article proposed an etiology-based decision tree with actual measurement of diastemata width for diastemata closure. The decisional steps include classifying the etiological factors based on patients' medical history and clinical manifestation to evaluate the stability of diastemata. After maintaining the stability of diastemata, contemporary and multidisciplinary treatment plans were selected in accordance with the measured width of diastemata and patients' cosmetic psychology, economics, and available time. These decision trees focus on the challenges of collaboration among dental departments, propose an objective and efficient ways for connections, and promote efficient and effective diastemata closure.

Biodegradable magnesium-based metal-guided bone regeneration (GBR) membranes possess excellent mechanical properties, biodegradability, and osteopromotive capabilities, making them ideal implants for the treatment of maxillofacial bone defects. This review summarizes the current status and future research trends related to magnesium-based GBR membranes. First, the research history and application fields of magnesium-based metals are introduced, and the advantages of the use of magnesium-based materials for GBR membranes, including their mechanical properties, biocompatibility, osteopromotive performance, and underlying mechanisms are discussed. Finally, this review addresses the current limitations of magnesium-based GBR membranes and their applications and prospects in the field of dentistry. In conclusion, considerable advancements have been in fundamental and translational research on magnesium-based GBR membranes, which lays a crucial foundation for the treatment of maxillofacial bone defects.

Objective This study aims to compare the effects of two orthodontic treatment modalities for skeletal class Ⅲ malocclusion on specific changes in airway volume, morphology, palatal angle, mandibular rotation, and bone displacement. Results provide scientific evidence for the selection of orthodontic treatment plans and reduce the risk of developing obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS). Methods Thirty-six patients diagnosed with skeletal class Ⅲ malocclusion at the Department of Orthodontics, the Affiliated Stomatological Hospital of Nanjing Medical University from September 2018 to December 2023 were divided into two groups: orthodontic-orthognathic treatment group (18 patients) and camouflage orthodontic treatment group (18 patients). Changes in airway volume, cross-sectional area, palatal angle, mandibular, and tongue positions were observed through pre- and post-operative cone beam computed tomography and 3D cephalometric measurements. Results In the camouflage orthodontic treatment group, nasopharyngeal volume and oropharyngeal volume statistically increased after treatment (P<0.05). In the orthodontic-orthognathic treatment group, changes in nasopharyngeal volume, nasopharyngeal airway, distance from posterior tongue to pharyngeal wall, palatal angle, mandibular rotation, and hyoid bone displacement were statistically significant after surgery (P<0.05). In the comparison between the two groups after treatment, changes in the distance from posterior tongue to pharyngeal wall, palatal angle, and distance from hyoid bone to sella turcica point were statistically significant (P<0.05). Conclusion Patients in the orthodontic-orthognathic treatment group showed significantly greater changes in oropharyngeal cross-sectional area, palate angle, and tongue position compared with patients in the camouflage orthodontic treatment group. As individuals susceptible to OSAHS often exhibit mandibular retrusion and decreased minimum airway cross-sectional area, special attention should be paid to airway morphology changes when adopting orthodontic-orthognathic treatment to avoid adverse consequences.

Hypophosphatemia rickets is a rare disease that is divided into two categories, namely, hereditary and acquirability. Its clinical manifestations include growth disorders, limb deformities and dysfunction, poor mineralization of the teeth, and growth retardation in children as well as hyperparathyroidism, osteoarthritis, osteomalacia, and pseudofracture in adults. Oral manifestations include non-carious teeth with recurrent apical periodontitis, periapical abscess and even cellulitis, periodontitis, and early tooth loss. X-linked hypophosphatemia rickets (XLHR) accounts for approximately 80% of all hypophosphatemia rickets. We report a 3-year-old child with XLHR whose first diagnosis was apical periodontitis of multiple non-carious and non-traumatic teeth. Through medical history, clinical examination, laboratory examination, radiographic findings, genotype testing, and literature analysis, we analyze the pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, radiographic features, diagnosis and differential diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up. This work provides reference for clinical diagnosis and treatment and reduces missed diagnosis and misdiagnosis by dentists.

Objective The objective of this study is to measuring the morphology and position of bilateral temporomandibular joints in patients with unilateral and bilateral molar scissor bite and simulating the deformation of the mandible during occlusion, in order to provide thesis for the diagnosis of temporomandibular joint disease in patients with unilateral and bilateral molar scissor bite. Methods This study was a retrospective study. A total of 10 patients with unilateral molar scissor bite (the unilateral molar scissor bite group) and 10 patients with bilateral molar scissor bite (the bilateral molar scissor bite group) were selected as the experimental group, and 20 adult patients with classⅠ of angle classification of similar ages were selected as the control group. All patients underwent cone beam computed tomography scans, by measuring the width of the fossa, height of the fossa, articular eminence inclination, long axis of the condyle, minor axis of the condyle, horizontal angle of the condyle and the space of the temporomandibular joint, compare temporomandibular joint morphology and position. The three-dimensional finite element analysis of the mandible morphology was carried out to evaluate the force and deformation of the mandible by using software to simulate the occlusion of the patients. It was further explored the relationship between the force of the mandible morphology and the possible temporomandibular joint disorder symptoms of the patients. Results Intergroup comparisons for the unilateral molar scissor bite group and left sides of the other groups revealed that the superior articular space in the group with unilateral molar scissor bite was shorter than that in the control group (P<0.05); the long axis of the condyle in the unilateral and bilateral molar scissor bite group were both shorter than that of the control group (P<0.05); among which the unilateral group was larger than the bilateral group, and the minor axis of the condyle in bilateral molar scissor bite group was smaller than in the control group (P<0.05), and the unilateral and bilateral condylar groups were larger than the control group (P<0.05); and the condylar horizontal angle in the unilateral and bilateral groups were larger than that in the control group (P<0.05). The normal sides of the unilateral molar scissor bite group and right sides of the other groups had smaller superior articular space than the control group (P<0.05); and the condylar long-axis in bilateral group was smaller than the control group (P<0.05); and the normal side of the condylar short-axis unilateral group was larger than that of the bilateral condylar group. Three-dimensional finite element analysis: the condyle of patients with molar scissor bite was a concentrated area of deformation during the bite of the mandible, when the first molar occlusion of the scissors bite side was simulated, the maximum deformation was located in the condyle in the X-axis and Z-axis directions. The amount of deformation was greater than that of the scissor bite side in the X-axis direction, while in the Z-axis direction, the normal side was greater than the scissor bite side. The maximum sites of local deformation in the X-axis direction were located in anterior and posterior the transverse crest of scissor bite side, and the minimum sites of local deformation was at 1/3 of the anterior slope of the inner pole of the normal side, the maximum local deformation sites in the Z-axis direction were located in the outer pole and below the outer pole of the normal side. The X-axis deformation value was the largest in the molars occlusion on the normal side, the Y-axis deformation value was in the premolars occlusion on the normal side, and the Z-axis deformation value was the largest in the centric occlusion, the deformation value of the condyle was not most significant in molar scissor bite. Conclusion Unilateral and bilateral molar scissor bite resulting in a short condyle morphology, and the bilateral group had a shorter condylar morphology than the unilateral group. The condyle of the patient with molar scissor bite is a concentrated area of poor occlusal deformation, and the largest sites of deformation are distributed near the transverse ridge of the inner and outer poles of the condyle. Different occlusion conditions have an effect on condylar deformation values, but do not indicate whether there is a clear association between them.

Peri-implantitis is a pathologic condition associated with dental plaque that occurs in the implant tissue and is characterized by inflammation of the mucous membrane surrounding the implant, followed by the progressive loss of supporting bone. In this study, a case of guided bone regeneration therapy based on plaque control of peri-implant inflammation was reported. Four years after surgery for the left second premolar implant, the patient presented with “left lower posterior tooth swelling and discomfort for more than 2 years”. The X-ray periapical film showed a decrease in distal bone mineral density of implant, and the clinical diagnosis was peri-implantitis of the left second premolar. Implants underwent guided bone regeneration and regular periodontal maintenance treatment. Re-examination at 3.5 months, 11 months, 18 months, and 7 years showed that the alveolar bone height and bone mineral density were stable, and the periodontal depth became shallow. However, the gingival recession was mild. In the present case, follow-up at 7 years demonstrated that the clinical periodontal indexes could be remarkably improved after complete periodontal treatment for peri-implantitis, and the alveolar bone could be well restored and regenerated.

Objective To study the clinical effect of the L-shape technique combined with concentrated growth factor on the horizontal bone defects of maxillary anterior teeth. Methods Twenty-five implants from 25 patients who underwent single maxillary anterior tooth implantation with simultaneous bone grafting were selected as the study subjects. Based on the bone grafting techniques, the patients were divided into a test group (L-shaped technique with guided bone regeneration combined with concentrated growth factor, 11 cases) and a control group (traditional guided bone regeneration combined with concentrated growth factor, 14 cases). The early discomfort and wound healing conditions in the two groups at two weeks after surgery were compared. The horizontal bone thickness, vertical bone thickness, and grayscale values in the augmentation area were measured immediately postsurgery and six months after surgery. Implant stability, hard tissue resorption within six months, and grayscale values were compared between the two groups. Results Differences in early discomfort, wound healing, implant stability, and grayscale values between the two groups were not statistically significant (P>0.05). Vertical bone thickness in the test group was significantly better than that in the control group at six months after surgery (P<0.05). The variation in horizontal bone thickness in the test group was significantly higher than that in the control group (P<0.05). Conclusion The application of the L-shape technique with concentrated growth factor for horizontal bone defects in the anterior maxillary area yielded satisfactory short-term results in terms of bone augmentation, early discomfort, wound healing, and implant stability at six months after surgery.

Objective The effect of metal precrown restoration of distal proximal maxillofacial caries in the first deciduous molar on the composite resin filling of mesio-adjacent maxillofacial caries in the second deciduous molar was investigated. Methods A total of 80 children aged 4-8 who visited our clinic were selected, and 120 teeth were examined. Two consecutive deciduous molars in one jaw were considered a single case when the distal proximal maxillary surface of the first deciduous molar and the mesial proximal maxillary surface of the second deciduous molar simultaneously had caries. The teeth were randomly divided into two groups: group A (68 cases), in which the first and second molars were repaired with composite resin, and group B (52 cases), in which the first deciduous molar was repaired with metal precrown after composite resin filling and the second deciduous molar was filled with composite resin. The two groups were compared in terms of the success rate of composite resin filling in the second deciduous molar. Results At 3 months, no significant difference (P>0.05) was found between groups A (92.65%) and B (96.15%). At 6 months, no significant difference (P>0.05) was observed between groups A (89.71%) and B (94.23%). At 12 months, statistically significant difference (P<0.05) was found between groups A (73.53%) and B (88.46%); At 24 months, statistically significant difference (P<0.05) was found between groups A (66.18%) and B (86.54%). Conclusion Compared with composite resin filling of the first deciduous molar, the metal precrown restoration of the first deciduous molar can improve the success rate of composite resin filling of the second deciduous molar.

Objective This study aims to explore the effect of improving clinical efficiency by replacing traditional impression workflow with centralized digital impression workflow. Methods The department of prosthodontics in Center of Stomatology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital has improved the clinical workflow by replacing the traditional impression made by doctors using impression materials for each patient with a centralized digital impression made by one technician for all patients in the department. This cross-sectional study recorded the chairside time required for impression taking in patients undergoing single posterior zirconia full crown restoration before clinical process improvement; the time required for centralized digital impression production; the comfort level of patients; and the adjacency relationship, occlusal contact relationship, and time required for prostheses adjusting (i.e., whether centralized digital impressions would compromise the quality of pro-stheses and increase the time of prostheses adjusting). Results The average time to make a traditional impression was (9.98±1.41) min, and the average time required for each patient to make a centralized digital impression was (5.98±1.49) min, which was shorter than that to used make a traditional impression (P<0.05). Centralized digital impression made patients feel more comfortable compared with traditional impression (P<0.05). The adjacency relationship of restorations by centralized digital impression was more appropriate (P<0.05), and no significant difference in occlusal relationship was found (P>0.05). The time required for adjusting prostheses also had no significant differences (P>0.05). Conclusion Centralized digital impression can improve clinical efficiency for patients undergoing single posterior zirconia crown restoration. The time for impression taking is shorter, and patients feel more comfortable without compromising the quality of the prostheses.

Objective To address the quality problems caused by high porosity in the preparation of dental cobalt-chrome alloy prosthetics based on selective laser melting (SLM) technology, we investigated the influence mechanism of different forming process parameters on the microstructure and properties of the materials. Moreover, the range of forming process parameters that can effectively reduce defects was precisely defined. Methods The effects of laser power, scanning speed, and scanning distance on the pore properties, surface roughness, and hardness of dental cobalt-chrome alloy were investigated by adjusting the printing parameters in the process of SLM. Through metallographic analysis, image analysis, and molten pool simulation, the pore formation mechanism was revealed, and the relationship between the porosity and energy density of SLM dental cobalt-chrome alloy was elucidated. Results When the linear energy density was higher than 0.18 J/mm, the porosity defect easily appeared at the bottom of the molten pool. When the laser energy density was lower than 0.13 J/mm, defects occurred in the gap of the molten pool due to insufficient melting of powder. In particular, when the linear energy density exceeded the threshold of 0.30 J/mm or was below 0.12 J/mm, the porosity increased significantly to more than 1%. In addition, we observed a negative correlation between free surface roughness and energy density and an inverse relationship between macroscopic hardness and porosity. Conclusion On the basis of the conditions of raw materials and molding equipment used in this study, the key process parameters of SLM of molding parts with porosity lower than 1% were successfully determined. Specifically, these key parameters included the line energy density, which ranged from 0.13 J/mm to 0.30 J/mm, and the scan spacing should be strictly controlled below 90 μm.

Objective This study aimed to investigate the clinical characteristics of deciduous fused teeth and their inherited permanent-tooth performance type by using panoramic radiographs. Methods A total of 14 404 panoramic radiographs of 3- to 6-year-old children with deciduous dentition were collected from January 2023 to July 2024. The incidence of deciduous fused teeth was observed, and the abnormality of permanent teeth was recorded. SPSS 24.0 software was used for statistical analysis. Results The incidence of deciduous fused teeth was 3.06% (441/14 404). The order of dental position was as follows: mandibular deciduous incisors and cusp teeth fused (58.18%) > mandibular deciduous central and lateral incisors fused (30.91%) > maxillary deciduous central and lateral incisors fused (8.89%) > deciduous incisors and supernumerary teeth fused (2.02%). Deciduous fused teeth were found in 226 boys and 215 girls, with no significant difference between the sexes (P>0.05). We observed one pair (87.76%, 387/441) and two pairs (12.24%, 54/441) of fused teeth (54/441), respectively. A total of 287 pairs of fusion teeth on the right side more than 208 pairs on the left side, and the difference between them was statistically significant (P<0.01). More fusion teeth existed in mandibular deciduous teeth (443 pairs) than in maxillary ones (54 pairs), and the difference between them was statistically significant (P<0.01). More unilateral deciduous teeth (387 subjects) were found than bilateral ones (54 subjects), and the difference between them was statistically significant (P<0.01). Three types of deciduous fused teeth with inherited permanent teeth were observed as follows: 1) 49.49% (245/495) of inherited permanent teeth was absent, 2) 46.67% (231/495) of inherited permanent teeth was not absent, and 3) the number of fused permanent teeth accounted for 3.84% (19/495). Conclusion The incidence of deciduous fused teeth was 3.06%, mostly occurring in the lower anterior teeth region, with no gender difference. One pair of fused teeth is commonly observed, more often on the right than the left. These fusions occur more frequently in the mandible than the maxillary, and unilateral cases are more common than bilateral ones. Deciduous fused teeth had a certain impact on inherited permanent teeth. Pediatric dentists should pay attention to and closely observe whether any abnormality exists in the permanent dentition for early detection to prevent the harm caused by deciduous fused teeth.

The clinical demand for occlusal reconstruction increases rapidly with increasing number of patients who have lost their normal occlusion because of tooth wear and dentition defects. Occlusal reconstruction is a special type of restoration defined as a comprehensive restoration of the function of the stomatognathic system by reestablishing a uniform and stable occlusal relationship between the upper and lower dentitions. Occlusal function analysis is an important part of occlusal reconstruction to achieve accurate restoration design and adjustment. Digital occlusal function analysis was conducted to monitor the movement of the mandible and obtain related data for the parameter design of occlusal reconstruction. Preoperative design, intraoperative adjustment, and postoperative verification were achieved, thereby improving the efficiency and accuracy of occlusal reconstruction.

Objective This study aims to compare the sedative effects of remimazolam and midazolam during impacted tooth extraction to provide a comfortable sedation treatment for patients with dental anxiety. Methods A prospective randomized controlled trial was conducted, in which 60 patients undergoing intravenous sedation for mandibular impacted third molar extraction were evenly divided into either the remimazolam or midazolam group. Prior to receiving a nerve blocker, the patients were sedated with remimazolam or midazolam. Various parameters were recorded and analyzed, including onset time, awakening time, recovery time, modified dental anxiety scale (MDAS) scores before and after surgery, patient-doctor satisfaction levels, postoperative side effects within 24 hours, heart rate (HR), and mean arterial pressure (MAP) at different time points. Results Compared with the midazolam group, patients in the remimazolam group demonstrated significantly shorter onset, awakening, and recovery times as well as lower postoperative MDAS scores and higher levels of patient-doctor satisfaction. Fewer postoperative side effects were reported in the remimazolam group, although the differences were not statistically significant. Conclusion The use of remimazolam demonstrates faster onset and recovery, superior efficacy in reducing dental anxiety, and enhanced satisfaction among patients and doctors, thereby presenting distinct advantages for sedation treatment for patients with dental anxiety.

Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of collagen modification on the osteogenic performance of different surface-modified titanium, including alkaline etching, alkaline etching followed by silanization, and alkaline etching followed by dopamine modification. The proliferation, adhesion, and osteogenic differentiation abilities of MC3T3-E1 cells on the surfaces with collagen modification were analyzed and compared. Methods Collagen was immobilized on the surfaces of pure titanium (Ti-C), alkaline-etched titanium (Ti-Na-C), alkaline-etched and silanized titanium (Ti-A-C), and alkaline-etched and dopamine-modified titanium (Ti-D-C), with pure titanium (Ti) as the control group. The surface morphology was observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and the surface elemental composition was analyzed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Contact angle measurements were conducted to evaluate the hydrophilicity of the surfaces. MC3T3-E1 cells were cultured on the surfaces, and their proliferation, adhesion, and osteogenic differentiation abilities were assessed using CCK-8 assay, laser scanning confocal microscope, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining, Alizarin red staining and quantitative analysis, as well as real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) to evaluate the mRNA expression levels of osteogenic-related genes, including ALP, typeⅠcollagen (COL-1), osteocalcin (OCN), osteopontin (OPN). Results SEM and XPS results confirmed the successful immobilization of collagen on the titanium surfaces, with the Ti-Na-C group exhibiting a higher amount of collagen modification. Contact angle measurements showed improved hydrophilicity of the surfaces after collagen modification. CCK-8 results indicated good compatibility of the materials with MC3T3-E1, with enhanced cell proliferation on the collagen-modified surfaces. Cell fluorescence staining revealed better cell spreading on the collagen-modified surfaces, and ALP and Alizarin red staining results suggested that the Ti-Na-C group exhibited the best osteogenic performance, with significantly higher absorbance values in the Alizarin red quantification analysis. RT-qPCR analysis showed that the Ti-Na-C group had the highest expression of the osteogenic-related gene OPN. Conclusion Among the different collagen modification approaches employed in this study, collagen modification on alkaline-etched titanium surfaces showed the most conducive effects on MC3T3-E1 cell adhesion, spreading, proliferation, and osteogenic differentiation. This approach can be considered as the optimal collagen modification strategy for enhancing osteogenesis on titanium surfaces.

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the critical functional unit in the human stomatognathic system. Damage of the TMJ causes orofacial dysfunction and secondary jaw deformities, leading to seriously decreased quality of life in patients. The TMJ prosthetic replacement is an important treatment method for severe joint destruction because of its remarkable advantages compared with other methods. In recent years, this technique has gradually attracted wide attention in China, but it has not been popularized on a large scale in our country because of several limitations. Thus, in this study, the clinical experience of patients with TMJ prosthetic replacement in clinical units was summarized, and the treatment principles, treatment processes, and technical advantages were systematically discussed, aiming to promote the popularization and application of TMJ prosthetic replacement in China.

Objective This study aims to observe the clinical effect of bone plate reduction in combination with a resorbable plate on large mandibular cysts. Methods Between October 2017 and September 2022, patients with large mandibular cysts in the presence of labial and buccal cortical bone were involved in the study. Intraoral approach was performed for bone plate reduction. Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scan was reviewed at 3, 6, and 9 months postoperatively to observe postoperative complications. Osteogenic results were assessed at these times to determine the clinical outcomes of this procedure. Results Eleven cases with large mandibular cysts in the presence of cortical bone were evaluated. The average thickness of the cortical bone on the labial and buccal sides was measured to be about (1.98±0.37) mm before surgery, with a mean value of (0.73±0.17) mm at the thinnest part of the plate and up to 0.51 mm at the thinnest part of the plate. The cystic cavities were well revealed during the surgeries, which were completed successfully. Postoperatively, the wounds healed in one stage without infection. The percentages of cyst shrinkage were 20.01%, 41.76%, and 73.41% at 3, 6, and 9 months after surgery, respectively. Quantitative measurement of bone mineral density in the jaws by CBCT with MIMICS software. The bone mineral densities of the adult bone were 313.78, 555.85, and 657.45 HU at the 3, 6, and 9 month time intervals, respectively. No significant change in the patient’s maxillofacial appearance were observed from the preoperative period as assessed by the patient’s and observer’s visual analog scale. Conclusion Bone plate reduction is an effective treatment for large mandibular cysts of the oral and maxillofacial region with the presence of cortical bone.

Objective This study aims to investigate bond strength between zirconia and resin cement through surface treatments with Er: YAG laser, Nd: YAG laser, and Si-Zr coating. Methods Seventy-five round pre-sintered zirconia discs with a diameter of 18 mm and a thickness of 1.5 mm were prepared by a powder compactor. Fifty discs were randomly divided into five groups of 10 discs each and were subjected to five surface treatments: no treatment (control group), sandblasting with alumina particles (sandblasting group), Er: YAG laser treatment (Er: YAG laser group), Nd:YAG laser treatment (Nd: YAG laser group), and Si-Zr coating treatment (Si-Zr coating group). The discs were then bonded to composite resin columns with resin cement. The shear bond strength of each group was tested with a universal tester. Roughness tester, scanning electron microscope (SEM), and energy dispersive spectroscopy were used to analyze surface performance. Results The bond strength of the Si-Zr coating group was higher than that of the remaining groups (P<0.05). The difference in bond strength between the sandblasting group and the Er: YAG laser group was not statistically significant (P>0.05), but both of them had higher bond strength than the Nd: YAG laser group (P<0.05). The Si-Zr coating group had the highest surface roughness (P<0.05). The surface roughness of the sandblasting, Er: YAG laser, and Nd: YAG laser groups was higher than that of the control group (P<0.05), but the difference among the three groups was not statistically significant (P>0.05). SEM observations showed irregular scratches on the surface of the sandblasting group and large pits with holes on the surface of the Er: YAG and Nd: YAG laser groups. In the Er: YAG laser group, the crystal structure was replaced by a smooth surface with a large amount of microcracks due to partial melting. Complex porous structures that comprised “island-like” structures and mass pores among the grains were observed on the surface of the Si-Zr coating. Only Zr, O, and Y were detected on the surfaces of the control, Er: YAG laser, and Nd: YAG laser groups. Al was found on the surface of the sandblasted group, and a higher proportion of Si was detected on the surface of the Si-Zr coating group. Conclusion Er: YAG laser and Nd: YAG laser treatment on the zirconia ceramic surface could increase roughness and improve the bond strength to resin cement. Si-Zr coating treatment is an effective alternative for increasing the roughness and bond strength of zirconia surface and is superior to sandblasting and laser treatments.

Objective This work aimed to evaluate the effect of artificial aging on the translucency and color difference (ΔE) of ultra-translucent zirconia and provide a reference for clinical application. Methods The discs of ultra-translucent zirconia from six brands (Wieland, 3M ESPE, Amann Girrbach, Kuraray Noritake, Upcera, and Besmile) were cut and sintered according to each manufacturer’s product instructions; the experimental groups were named ZNT, LVP, AG, KAT, UPC, and BSM, respectively. IPS e.max Press was used as the control group (PLT). The specimens (n=6) were prepared with a diameter of 14 mm and a thickness of 1 mm. The specimens were subjected to artificial aging treatment according to the following conditions: in an autoclave at 134 ℃ at 0.2 MPa for 4, 8, and 12 h. According to the CIE1976Lab system, the CIE L*, a*, and b* values of the specimens before and after aging were measured by a co-lorimeter. The translucency parameter (TP) and ΔE were calculated. Results The mean TP values of each group before aging inorder were PLT>KAT>AG>ZNT>BSM>UPC>LVP. We found no significant difference in translucency in all experimental groups after aging for 4 and 8 h compared with those before aging. After 12 h of aging, the TP values of the KAT and ZNT groups were not significantly different from those before aging, but the TP values of the AG, BSM, LVP, and UPC groups were significantly lower than those before aging (P<0.05). The TP value of the control group was significantly higher than that of the other experimental groups at different stages (P<0.05). ΔE=3.3 was considered the visible color difference, and ΔE was less than 3.3 in all groups after 4 h of aging. After aging for 8 h, ΔE of the UPC group was slightly higher than 3.3. ΔE of the BSM and UPC groups was greater than 3.3 after 12 h of aging. Conclusion The TP and ΔE of different brands of ultra-translucent zirconia may change after various aging times. The translucency of some zirconia showed a decreasing trend and the color difference showed an increasing trend with the aging time.

Centric relation (CR) was used in the complete dentures for edentulous jaws firstly. Then, CR was gradually applied in the clinical diagnosis and treatment of dentate jaws. Regarding the application of CR in dentate jaws, there are many doubts about its rationality. For instance, should CR be the core of diagnosis and treatment of temporomandibular disorders? Should CR be used as the jaw position of establishing occlusion in occlusal reconstruction? Should CR serve as the target jaw position in orthodontic treatment? Meanwhile, varieties of CR clinical applications are objective. According to the existing evidence, this paper summarizes the applicable conditions of several main clinical situations with little controversy. We preliminarily put forward the decision tree for the clinical application of CR, which can be used as a reference in clinical practice.

Objective This study aims to compare the accuracy of self-developed universal implant guide (SDG), 3D printed digital guide (DG), and free hand (FH) simulated implantation in the posterior tooth area of dental models. Methods Ten junior dentists were selected to place three implants in the 35, 37, and 46 tooth sites of the mandibular models (35, 36, 37, and 46 missing teeth) by using SDG, DG, and FH, and the process was repeated again to take the average value. Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) was used to evaluate the global coronal deviation, global apical deviation, depth deviation, and angular deviation between the actual position and preoperative planned position. Results The coronal deviation and apical deviation of the three implant sites in the SDG group were not significantly different from those in the two other groups (P>0.05). The depth deviation and angular deviation in the SDG group were smaller than those in the DG group (P<0.05) and FH group (P<0.05), respectively. All deviations at site 37 in the SDG group were not different from those at site 35 (P>0.05), while the depth and angular deviation at site 37 in the DG group were higher than those at site 35 (P<0.05). Conclusion The precision of the self-developed universal dental implant guide can meet the requirements of clinical posterior implantation.

Oral wounds caused by injuries, surgeries, diseases, and chemical irritations bring pain to the patient and increase the risk of infection. Effective wound protection and repair are crucial for improving patients’ quality of life and maintaining oral health. Wound dressings provide ideal healing conditions by isolating the wound from the oral environment. However, in the highly moist, microbiologically rich environment of the oral cavity, maintaining the stability of wound dressings remains a considerable challenge. Hydrogels show promising prospects for oral applications and are gradually becoming a research hotspot for addressing the challenges of oral wound protection and repair due to their excellent biocompatibility and versatile performance. In this paper, the current design strategies of hydrogel wound dressings that overcome the unique oral environment, achieve sustained adhesion and fulfill their functions are reviewed to provide new insights for the design of ideal oral wound barrier materials.

Objective This study aimed to evaluate the application of digital impression and resin model technology in removable partial dentures (RPD) for Kennedy classⅠandⅡdentition defects. Methods Patients with Kennedy classⅠorⅡdental defect were selected and grouped in accordance with the following denture production processes: digital impression/resin model/cast cobalt-chromium alloy framework group (group A), digital impression/resin model/laser printed titanium framework group (group B), alginate impression/plaster model/cast cobalt-chromium alloy framework group (group C), and alginate impression/plaster model/laser printed titanium framework group (group D), with 40 cases in each group. The final RPD was examined in place in the mouth, and the evaluation indicators included the retention force of clamp ring, the tightness of connector and base, and the accuracy of occlusion. The evaluation scores of each index were used for analysis on the Kruskal-Wallis rank-sum test. Results No statistically significant difference in the score of each index was found among the four groups in RPD. Conclusion The cast cobalt-chromium alloy and laser-printed titanium framework RPD using digital impression and resin model can meet the clinical restoration requirements of patients with Kennedy classⅠandⅡdentition defects.

Objective This study aims to compare and analyze three types of generative artificial intelligence (GAI) and explore their application value and existing problems in the field of stomatology in the Chinese context. Methods A total of 36 questions were designed, covering all the professional areas of stomatology. The questions encompassed various aspects including medical records, professional knowledge, and translation and editing. These questions were submitted to ChatGPT4-turbo, Gemini (2024.2) and ERNIE Bot 4.0. After obtaining the answers, a blinded evaluation was conducted by three experienced oral medicine physicians using a four-point Likert scale. The value of GAI in various application scenarios was evaluated. Results Gemini scored 45, ERNIE Bot scored 38, and ChatGPT scored 33 for clinical documentation and image production. For research assistance, Gemini achieved 45, ERNIE Bot had 39, and ChatGPT scored 35. Teaching assistance capabilities were rated at 54 for ERNIE Bot, 50 for Gemini, and 48 for ChatGPT. In patient consultation and guidance, Gemini scored 78, ERNIE Bot scored 59, and ChatGPT scored 48. Overall, the total scores were 218, 190, and 164 for Gemini, ERNIE Bot, and ChatGPT, respectively. Among GAI applications, the top scoring categories were article translation and polishing (26), patient-doctor communication documentation (23), and popular science content creation (23). The lowest scoring categories were literature search and reporting (13) and image generation (12). Conclusion In the Chinese context, the application value of GAI is the highest for Gemini, followed by ERNIE Bot and ChatGPT. GAI shows significant value in translation, patient-doctor communication, and popular science writing. However, its value in literature search, reporting, and image generation remains limited.

Objective This study aims to investigate the primary target and potential mechanism of mangiferin (MF) in treating oral submucous fibrosis (OSF) through Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database chip mining, network pharmacology, and molecular docking techniques. Methods Potential therapeutic targets for OSF were identified using GEO chip data. The potential targets of MF were predicted, and disease-related targets for OSF were collected from databases. A Venn diagram was created using the EVenn platform to identify overlapping targets. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed using the STRING database. Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses were performed using the DAVID platform. Cytoscape 3.10.1 software was used to visualize a drug-target-pathway-disease network, while AutoDocktools 1.5.6 software was employed for molecular docking analysis. Results A total of 356 potential targets for MF and 360 disease-related targets for OSF were obtained from multiple databases. The top 15 key target proteins in the PPI network were selected as significant candidates. GO function and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses revealed that MF treatment primarily involved advanced glycation end products-receptor (AGE-RAGE), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), and other signaling pathways associated with OSF pathogenesis. Molecular docking analysis demonstrated that MF exhibited a strong binding activity toward AKT serine kinase 1 (AKT1), tumor necrosis factor (TNF), and other core targets. Conclusion These findings suggest that MF may exert its therapeutic effects on OSF through a multitarget approach involving various signaling pathways.

Objective This study aimed to systematically compare the effects of flapless and flapped implantations on the surrounding soft tissues of dental implants. Methods Nine databases were searched, including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Clinical Trials, OpenGrey, OpenDoar, Scopus, and Ovid, from January 1, 2013, to August 27, 2023. Randomized controlled trials comparing flapless implantation with flapped implantation for restoration of missing teeth were included. Meta-analysis was conducted on studies that met the inclusion criteria by using RevMan 5.3 and Stata 14.0. Results A total of 1 245 articles were retrieved, and 17 studies were ultimately included. The results of Meta-analysis showed that flapless implantation resulted in better healing of the soft tissues around the dental implants than flapped implantation. Moreover, flapless implantation showed superior changes in implant success rate [mean difference (MD)=1.06, 95% confidence interval (CI) (1.02, 1.10), P=0.004], the width of keratinized gingival changes [MD=0.10, 95%CI (0.00, 0.20), P=0.04], and probing depth [MD=-0.60, 95%CI (-0.67, -0.53), P<0.000 01], with statistically significant differences. The final combined results of modified plaque index [standardized mean difference (SMD)=-0.41, 95%CI (-0.81, 0.00), P=0.05] and modified sulcus bleeding index [SMD=-0.44, 95%CI (-0.78, -0.10), P=0.01] showed superiority over flapped implantation. The papillary presence index was higher in the flapless implantation group than in the flapped implantation group. No statistically significant differences were observed in plaque index and gingival indices changes between the two groups. Conclusion Flapless implantation can achieve higher implant success rate, smaller changes in the width of keratinized gingival, and smaller probing depths than flapped implantation. It also has advantages in terms of modified plaque index, modified sulcus bleeding index, and papillary presence index.

Objective This study aims to investigate possible hub genes, associated pathways, and transcription factors between chronic periodontitis (CP) and Parkinson’s disease (PD). Methods Gene expression profiles of CP (GSE16134, GSE23586, and GSE10334) and PD (GSE20141 and GSE49036) were downloaded from the gene expression omnibus (GEO) database for differential expression analysis and functional clustering analysis. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed, and hub genes were screened by four topological analysis algorithms and modular segmentation. Functional clustering analysis was performed. The hub genes were validated by external datasets of CP and PD, and causal relation was further assessed by Mendelian randomization (MR). Results After merging the data, 1 211 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened in the CP datasets; of which, 551 were upregulated and 660 were downregulated. A total of 2 407 DEGs were screened in the PD dataset, of which, 1 438 were upregulated and 969 were downregulated. The PPI network included 145 nodes and 126 edges. Four hub genes (FCGR3B, PRF1, IL18, and CD33) and three transcription factors (HSF1, HSF2, and HSF4) were finally screened. The relevant pathway was predominantly natural killer (NK) cell-mediated toxic effects. The MR results suggest a possible positive causal relationship between CP and the risk of developing PD. Conclusion This study indicated the probably shared pathophysiology and possible causal relationship between CP and PD and may offer novel concepts and therapeutic targets for future mechanistic investigations.

Objective This study aimed to investigate the incidence and severity of surgical fear in patients with oral and maxillofacial tumors. Methods The survey participants were composed of patients with oral and maxillofacial tumors, who were scheduled to undergo surgery. A general information questionnaire, the Surgical Fear Questionnaire (SFQ), the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ)-9, and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)-7 score were used for the investigation. Results A total of 203 patients were investigated. Among them, 85.22% had fear of surgery. The median score of SFQ was 20, and the quartile was (6, 36). The patients were categorized into none, mild, moderate, and severe groups according fear level. Gender, diabetes, obvious discomfort before surgery, PHQ-9, and GAD-7 scores were the variables with statistical difference in each fear level. Multifactor analysis showed that women were more likely to have moderate and severe fear than men (OR=2.19, P=0.03; OR=2.72, P=0.01), patients with obvious preoperative discomfort symptoms were more inclined to have no fear (OR=4.73, P=0.02), and patients with diabetes were more likely to have severe fear (OR=3.33, P=0.02). The incidence rates of depression and anxiety were 31.03% and 24.63%, respectively. The incidence of anxiety and depression in patients with severe fear was 40.00%. Surgical fear was moderately positively correlated with anxiety (r=0.491, P<0.001) and depression (r=0.514, P<0.001). Conclusion The fear of surgery in patients with oral and maxillofacial tumors is common and distributed in all levels. Medical staff can screen and assess patients with moderate and severe fear of surgery in accordance with the influencing factors and implement targeted interventions to reduce fear of surgery, anxiety, and depression on the basis of the source of fear.

Objective This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of concentrated growth factor (CGF) membrane and collagen as barrier materials in sealing the alveolar socket in alveolar ridge preservation (ARP) in the posterior region during a one-year follow-up. Methods A total of 24 patients who underwent ARP in the posterior region were selected for inclusion and randomly assigned to the CGF group (12 cases) and Collagen group (12 cases). The patients in both groups underwent extraction of posterior teeth. The extraction sockets were filled with a bone substitute to the level of the pre-extraction buccal and lingual or palatal alveolar bone plates. The wounds in the CGF group were closed with a fabricated CGF overlaying the upper edge of the bone substitute material, whereas those in the Collagen group were closed with Bio-Oss Collagen. The implants were placed after 6 months. The evaluation was based on implant retention, re-grafting rate, and vertical and horizontal alveolar ridge bone volume changes measured by cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). Data were statistically analyzed using SPSS 28.0 software. Results No patient withdrew throughout the follow-up period. No implant failure and no severe peri-implant or mucosal soft tissue complications were observed. Six months after the operation, the degree of vertical alveolar ridge height resorption in the CGF group was lower than that in the Collagen group (P<0.05). There were no statistically difference between the groups at 1 year after the operation (P>0.05). The amount of bone reduction in horizontal alveolar ridge width showed no difference between the groups at 6 months and 1 year after surgery (P>0.05). Conclusion CGF membrane and Bio-Oss Collagen as barrier materials for posterior ARP inhibited reduction in alveolar ridge bone mass.

Objective This study aimed to investigate the temporal and spatial changes in the expression of periostin during periodontal inflammation in mice. Methods A periodontitis model was constructed using silk thread ligation. Mice were randomly divided into five groups including control group, 4-day ligation group, 7-day ligation group, 14-day ligation group, and self-healing group (thread removal for 14 days after 14-day ligation). Micro-CT and histological staining were performed to characterize the dynamic changes in the mouse periodontal tissue in each group. RNAscope and immunohistochemical staining were used to analyze the pattern of changes in periostin at various stages of periodontitis. The cell experiment was divided into three groups: control group, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation group (treated with LPS for 12 h), and LPS stimulation removal group (treated with LPS for 3 h followed by incubation with medium for 9 h). Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to detect the expression of periostin, transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), and matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2). Results Significant alveolar bone resorption was observed 7 days after ligation. With increasing duration of ligation, the damage to the mouse periodontal tissue was aggravated, which manifested as increased osteoclasts, widening of the periodontal membrane space, and decreased alveolar bone height. Some degree of periodontal tissue repair was observed in the self-healing group. Periostin expression decreased at 4 and 7 days compared with the control group and increased at 14 days compared with 4 and 7 days. A significant recovery was found in the self-healing group. The qRT-PCR results showed that the expression of periostin and TGF-β1 in the LPS stimulation group decreased compared with that in the control group but significantly recovered in the LPS removal group. Conclusion Periostin expression in the PDL of mice showed a downward and upward trend with inflammation progression. The significant recovery of periostin expression after removing inflammatory stimuli may be related to TGF-β1, which is crucial to maintain the integrity of the PDL.

Most of the maxillary impacted third molars are located in the maxillary tuberosity, where the vision and operation space are limited. This paper reports a case of surgical extraction of the left maxillary horizontal superhigh impacted third molar, which is located between the roots of the adjacent teeth and is closely related to the maxillary sinus. The digital simulation technology was used to reconstruct a three-dimensional visual image of the patient’s maxilla, related teeth, and other adjacent anatomical structures to assist in finding the optimal surgical method accurately. Root dislocation before the crown not only protects the roots of the adjacent tooth, but also reduces the risk of maxillary sinus lining damage or perforation during operative procedures, improves the efficiency of the operation, and reduces surgical trauma, which conforms to the concept of minimally invasive surgery and provides a new idea and experience for the clinical extraction of such maxillary impacted third molars.

Objective This study aims to provide craniofacial features and incisor position prediction models among esthetics population after orthodontic treatment. Methods A total of 338 patients with esthetic profiles were selected from 1 055 post-orthodontic adults based on inclusion and exclusion criteria and scored by five dental students. Mean values of cephalometric measurement were demonstrated with gender and sagittal skeletal pattern (ANB) differences assessed by generalized estimating equation. Correlations among age, skeletal, and soft tissue variables in different genders were determined. Multivariate analysis was used to assess the influence of skeletal and soft tissue variables on orthodontic incisor position. Results Within the esthetic cohort after orthodontic treatment, gender differences existed in cranial and mandibular length, mandibular rotation, protrusion of pogonion, inclination of maxillary incisors, upper lip thickness, lower 1/3 face height, and nose protrusion. However, in class Ⅰ malocclusion, the development of the chin showed no significance, whereas the protrusion of the lower lip significantly differed between genders, with less protrusion in males. In males, the protrusion of lip and chin varied among groups, with thinner basic upper lip thickness of class Ⅱ than class Ⅰ and greater lower lip height of class Ⅲ than class Ⅰ. In females, the protrusion and height of the upper lip and chin varied in groups, with thicker basic upper lip thickness of class Ⅲ than class Ⅰ. Upper lip thickness, female basic upper lip thickness, and female lower lip height were correlated with age. The protrusion of the upper lip was mainly correlated with posterior cranial base, mandibular body length, ANB in male and SNA, ANB, sagittal maxillary length, mandibular rotation, and protrusion of pogonion in female. The protrusion of the lower lip in males was mainly correlated with ramus height, mandibular rotation, protrusion of pogonion in male and ANB, mandibular rotation, and protrusion of pogonion in females. After employing skeletal variables to fit dental parameters, optimal results were achieved in male IMPA (adjusted R²=0.712) and female G Vert-U1 (adjusted R²=0.795). After employing skeletal and soft tissue variables simultaneously, optimal results were achieved in male and female G Vert-U1, which was mainly influenced by the protrusion of the chin and nasal base in males (adjusted R²=0.836) and the protrusion of the nasal base as well as ANB in females (adjusted R²=0.842). Conclusion This study demonstrated the craniofacial features of esthetics population after orthodontic treatment and revealed the correlation of gender, age, skeleton, and soft tissues to provide reliable prediction models for aesthetic orthodontic incisor position.

Dental invagination is an abnormality of the crown or root development induced during tooth germ development when the enamel-forming apparatus or epithelial root sheath overpopulates and folds into the papilla. In severe cases, the invaginated channels are connected to the pulp and periodontal tissues, often causing endodontic and periapical diseases. The complex anatomical pattern of this disease adds difficulty in its preoperative diagnosis and clinical operation. In this paper, we report a case of non-surgical treatment assisted by cone beam CT and microscopy for maxillary lateral incisor double dens invaginatus type Ⅲ (Ⅲa and Ⅲb) with apical periapical infection. After 1-year follow-up, the affected tooth was asymptomatic and the periapical lesion was significantly reduced.

This study explores the potential application of computer aided design (CAD)/computer aided manufac-turing (CAM) for one-piece glass fiber posts and cores in restoring tooth defects post-removal of a broken fiber post using a digital guide plate. This paper reports a fractured left upper incisor fiber post removed using a customized needle and digital guide plate. Following root canal retreatment, CAD/CAM integrated fiber post-core and zirconia full crown restoration were completed. The occlusion testing was conducted using the T-Scan Ⅲ system. This study offers insights for managing secondary repair after fiber post fractures.

In clinical dentistry, addressing unique conditions such as tilted, elongated, and torsion teeth during preparation can be effectively managed through digital tooth morphology design. The production of a multi-stage 3D-printed guide offered a more efficient and accurate solution. This article presented a case of significant inclination, elongation, and torsion in the maxillary and mandibular canines that were successfully treated using crown restoration modification. A crown preparation guide was fabricated based on the final form design of the restoration using the target restorative space analysis technique to ensure precise tooth preparation. A tooth preparation guide was also designed and utilized further to enhance accuracy and efficiency during complex tooth preparation. The combined application of these multi-stage guides demonstrated promising clinical prospects.

Oral cancer represents a serious public health problem affecting oral and system health with a high global incidence. Treatment strategies for oral cancer vary in different disciplines and are likely to be limited to certain doctor’s personal experience. While clinical practice guidelines are considered to enable doctors to determine the most appropriate and consistent treatment strategy according to the patient’s situation. National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) clinical practice guidelines have become the most prevalent in global clinical oncology practice. This article mainly focuses on cases to discuss the normalized treatment strategy for oral cancer in different stages based on the NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology (NCCN Guidelines): Head and Neck Cancers, Version 3, 2024.

Objective This study aimed to explore the heterogeneity and gene ontology of Wnt1-Cre-marked and Pax2-Cre-marked first branchial arch cranial neural crest cells (CNCs) in mice. Methods The embryos of Wnt1-Cre;R26R^mTmG and Pax2-Cre;R26R^mTmG at embryonic day (E)8.0-E9.25 were collected for histological observation. We performed immunostaining to compare green fluorescent protein (GFP)-positive CNCs in Pax2-Cre;R26R^Ai9 and Wnt1-Cre;R26R^Ai9 mice at E15.5. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) was used to analyze the first branchial arch GFP-positive CNCs from Wnt1-Cre;R26R^mTmG and Pax2-cre;R26R^mTmGmice at E10.5. Real time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction (q-PCR) was performed to validate the differential genes. Results Wnt1-Cre-marked and Pax2-Cre-marked CNCs migrated from the neural plateto first and second branchial arches and to the first branchial arch, respectively, at E8.0. Although Wnt1-Cre-marked and Pax2-Cre-marked CNCs were found mostly in cranial-facial tissues, the former had higher expression in palate and tongue. The results of scRNA-seq showed that Pax2-Cre-marked CNCs specifically contributed to osteoblast differentiation and ossification, while Wnt1-Cre-marked CNCs participated in limb development, cell migration, and ossification. The q-PCR data also confirmed the results of gene ontology analysis. Conclusion Pax2-Cre mice are perfect experimental animal models for research on first branchial arch CNCs and derivatives in osteoblast differentiation and ossification.

Objective This study aims to establish an approach to integrate autonomous maximal smile (AMS) 3D facial image with digital 3D dental models to demonstrate the digital orthodontic set-up in the 3D facial context. Methods Using Geomagic Studio software, the AMS 3D facial image and pre-treatment dental model were manually and globally registered. Subsequently, the pre-treatment dental model was substituted with the predicted post-treatment dental model. The intraoral region of the AMS 3D facial image was removed, achieving a conjunctive display of the AMS 3D facial image and the post-treatment dental set-up. The distances between four groups of corresponding landmark pairs on the AMS 3D facial image and the pre-treatment dental set-up were calculated, and the accuracy of the registration operation was evaluated by paired t-test. Results The novel approach effectively facilitated the integration of AMS 3D facial images with the pre-treatment and predicted post-treatment 3D dental models. The average distances between the pairs of points were (1.19±0.55) mm and (1.55±0.59) mm for the two registrations, respectively. Notably, no statistically significant difference was observed between the two measurements (P>0.05), indicating a high agreement (intraclass correlation coefficient=0.914). Conclusion This study established an approach to integrate AMS 3D facial images with digital 3D dental models. Through this approach, the digital orthodontic set-up design can be displayed in the context of a 3D facial image, which may help to improve the quality of outcome set-up in digital orthodontics, such as clear aligner therapy.