This study evaluates the efficacy of digital radiography and ultrasound (USG) for the distinction between periapical cysts and granulomas, determines the nature and extent of the periapical lesion, visualizes the lumen of the lesion, assesses its size, content, and vascularity. Material and MethodsThirty patients, ages 18 to 40, with well-defined periapical radiolucencies on maxillary or mandibular teeth, indicated for the extraction or periapical surgery, underwent digital radiography examination using the paralleling technique, followed by USG examination. A sonologist evaluated the lesions' size, echogenicity, and vascular content. The diagnosis was compared to histopathological examinations of tissues obtained through extraction or periapical surgery. ResultsThe diagnostic value of USG compared to the histopathological diagnosis of the periapical cyst was greater than that of the radiographic diagnosis, with an ultrasonographic diagnostic sensitivity (SN) value of 60% and a radiographic diagnostic SN value of 40%, respectively. The diagnostic value of USG imaging against the histopathological diagnosis of periapical granuloma was slightly lower than that of digital radiography, with an SN value of 72.2% for USG and 83.33% for digital radiography. However, the specificity (SP) value and precision of USG imaging were superior to those of digital radiographic diagnosis. USG imaging and radiographic diagnosis had 58.33% and 50% SP values, respectively. In cases of periapical abscess, the diagnostic values of USG against histopathological diagnosis were lower than those of radiographic diagnosis, which had an SN value of 100%. ConclusionUSG with color doppler is a more effective tool than digital radiography for diagnosing periapical lesions. The echo structure of the lesions and the presence of vascularity on USG with color doppler correlated with histopathology better than the radiological diagnosis.

Amelogenesis imperfecta (AI) refers to a group of inherited odontological disorders that alter enamel formation. The AI variant is based on the primary enamel defect, classified as hypoplastic type I, hypo maturation type II, hypo calcification type III, and hypo maturation type IV. AI is commonly linked with the loss of the normal occlusal plane, the loss of the vertical dimension of occlusion (VDO), and impaired functions and esthetics. This case report describes the Hobo and Takayama twin-stage procedure for the rehabilitation of a patient with hypoplastic AI.

Statement of problemDental restorations are subjected to tensile stresses from oblique or transverse loading of their complex geometric forms, making tensile strength a fundamental mechanical property. Since composite core buildup materials are brittle, the integrity of the post and core depends on their tensile strength and resistance to fracture when utilized with various prefabricated post systems. Therefore, it is essential to determine the tensile strength of the prefabricated metallic and nonmetallic posts used to reinforce the composite resin core. PurposeThis study compared the diametral tensile strength (DTS) of three prefabricated post systems with composite core build-up material. Material and methodologyTen composite resin cores from four different groups were formed. The control group was the composite resin core without a post (group 1). Group 2 was composed of composites with metal posts, group 3 was composed of composites with glass fiber posts, and group 4 was composed of composites with carbon fiber posts. All the samples were kept in a humid place for seven days to mimic the conditions in the mouth. DTS was determined by recording the tensile force required to fracture the core material by performing a diametral compression test for tension after a week. The observations were analyzed using a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), followed by a post-hoc test. ResultsThe tensile strength of the resin core material was decreased by 28.1%, 20.8%, and 10.4% by using posts made of stainless steel, carbon fiber, and glass fiber, respectively. Among the three post systems, stainless steel had the lowest mean DTS values, while glass fiber had the highest mean DTS values. ConclusionComposite core glass fiber post systems showed higher tensile strength than other post systems.