Exploring the World of Veneers in Conservative Dentistry
The World of Biopsy in Eyes of Dental Practitioners in Madurai – A Cross Sectional Survey
Assessment of Gingival Phenotype - A Key Determinant for Treatment Planning using Two Different Methods
Sjögren's Syndrome with Bilateral Multiple Parotid Sialolithiasis – Diagnostic Approach and Management
Verrucous Carcinoma of Buccal Mucosa Associated with Oral Submucous Fibrosis - A Case Report and Review
Computerized Cepholometric Surgical Prediction in Orthognathic Surgery with Facad 2d Software
Cheiloscopy and Palatoscopy - An Aid for Human Identification
Management of Palatogingival Groove Associated with Localized Periodontitis - A Case Report
A Review of Wegener's Granulomatosis - A Rare Granulomatous Disease
Root Resorption in Orthodontics
Assessment of Gingival Phenotype - A Key Determinant for Treatment Planning using Two Different Methods
Drug Induced Oral Erythema Multiforme: A Case Report
Comparison of TMA, Stainless Steel and Timolium for Friction, Load Deflection and Surface Characteristics
Evaluation of Diagnostic Accuracy of Ki - 67 (Immunocytochemistry) and AgNOR in Detecting Early Changes in Smokers and Tobacco Chewers.
One Step Apexification "The Apical Barrier Technique”
Veneers have revolutionized aesthetic dentistry by enabling clinicians to deliver highly esthetic outcomes with minimal removal of tooth structure. As a conservative treatment modality, veneers effectively manage a range of clinical conditions, including discoloration, enamel defects, minor malalignment, and morphological anomalies of anterior teeth. This comprehensive article explores the clinical and material aspects of veneers, focusing on the principles of case selection, tooth preparation, bonding protocols, and recent material advancements. It outlines the evolution from direct composite veneers to advanced ceramic systems, including feldspathic porcelain, lithium disilicate, and CAD- CAM fabricated restorations. Emphasis is placed on the importance of enamel preservation, optimal adhesive strategies, and advancements such as no-prep and pre-fabricated veneer systems for example, lumineers, componeers, edelweiss. These innovations offer enhanced esthetics, improved mechanical properties, and simplified workflows. The article highlights evidence-based practices to maximize long-term success and patient satisfaction, reinforcing the role of veneers as a durable, minimally invasive, and esthetically superior restorative option in contemporary dentistry.
Dental practitioners should be able to detect and identify various oral lesions and hence provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan to the patient for a better prognosis. Some oral lesions that give similar clinical appearances must be confirmed by adjunctive procedures such as biopsy. They should be knowledgeable about various techniques used for oral biopsy and should have the ability to understand and formulate a treatment plan based on the biopsy report. Thus, the aim of the present study was to carry out a questionnaire-based survey of dental practitioners in Madurai to assess their knowledge, practice, and attitude regarding biopsy procedures. This cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was done on 180 dental practitioners in Madurai, consisting of 17 questions formulated to collect information through an online platform on various aspects of oral biopsy. The data thus collected was tabulated. The response rate was 90%. Most of the DPs had a good knowledge about biopsy, but there were conflicting results on performing biopsy. Most of the dental surgeons are not comfortable performing biopsies; the majority seem to lack experience and skill. There is a need to organize training for dental surgeons to enhance their practical skills.
The term gingival phenotype was developed to reflect the common clinical finding of notable variation in the degree of thickness and width of keratinized tissue. The thickness of the gingiva in the faciopalatal/faciolingual dimension is known as gingival biotype. Reduced gingival thickness is one factor that may contribute to a patient's marginal tissue recession and loss of periodontal attachment, which is a serious concern for the progression of periodontal disease. Gingival biotypes might have a thin, scalloped appearance or be broad and flat. Gingival thickness less than 1.5 mm is referred to as thin tissue biotype, while gingival thickness more than 2 mm is referred to as thick tissue biotype. Gingival biotypes can be assessed directly by eye, with the use of a periodontal probe, or directly by measuring with calipers, endodontic spreaders, and endodontic files. A number of invasive and non-invasive methods have been proposed for measuring tissue thickness; these include direct measurement, ultrasound devices, transparency (TRANSP) of the periodontal probe through the gingival sulcus, transgingival probing method (TRANS), and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans. This study includes the changes in the gingival thickness in the gingival recession patients preoperatively and postoperatively.
Sjögren's syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disorder that primarily affects exocrine glands, leading to dryness in the eyes, mouth, and other mucosal areas. It may present as a primary condition or with other autoimmune diseases. The main pathology is lymphocytic infiltration of the exocrine glands, resulting in xerostomia and xerophthalmia. Though dryness of eyes, dry mouth, and parotid enlargement are considered the triad of Sjögren's syndrome, it can rarely present with sialolithiasis. This case involves a 52-year old female with a 3-year history of dry eyes, dry mouth, fatigue, and joint pain. Laboratory tests were positive for anti- SSA (Ro) and anti-SSB (La) antibodies. CBCT imaging revealed bilateral multiple parotid sialoliths. Minor salivary gland biopsy revealed lymphocytic infiltration, confirming the diagnosis of Sjögren's syndrome. The patient was treated with artificial tears, oral hydration, and systemic prednisolone and chloroquine. Follow-up showed significant improvement in symptoms, energy levels, and joint symptoms. This case emphasizes the importance of diagnosis and symptomatic management to alleviate discomfort and prevent complications, including dental decay and corneal damage. Regular follow-up is crucial for managing systemic involvement and ensuring long-term health.
The occurrence of verrucous carcinoma (VC), a rare, well-differentiated variant of squamous cell carcinoma, in conjunction with oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF), a potentially malignant disorder characterized by progressive fibrosis of the oral mucosa, is uncommon. This paper presents an unusual case involving a 48-year old male patient who had a history of chewing areca nuts and who presented with a painless, exophytic lesion in the left lip and buccal mucosa, along with symptoms of restricted mouth opening and mucosal blanching typical of OSMF. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of verrucous carcinoma arising in the background of OSMF, and the patient underwent surgery with wide local excision. Post-surgery, the patient developed persistent trismus that was not responsive to conservative therapy. Surgical reconstruction with a nasolabial flap was performed, resulting in a significant improvement in mouth opening and oral function.
