Forces Generated During Plush Animal Pacifier Use: A Pilot Study.

Purpose: Plush animal pacifiers (detachable weighted stuffed animals) have gained popularity. Although pacifiers have well-known benefits, they can also affect the development of the cranio-facial-respiratory complex. The purpose of this study was to study the forces gener- ated on the maxillary arch region during the use of plush animal pacifiers.

Dental needs and conditions of individuals with Lowe syndrome: An observational study.

Introduction: Lowe syndrome (LS) is an uncommon condition that affects the brain, kidneys, nervous system, and eyes, predominantly in males. The aim of this study was to examine dental conditions, dental treatments, and access and/or barriers to care for those with LS compared to healthy individuals.

Methods: Surveys assessing dental conditions, dental treatments, and access and/or barriers to care were administered to families in the Lowe Syndrome Association and families with healthy children who had dental appointments at the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine (TUSDM) pediatric dental clinic.

Functional comparison of pacifiers using finite element analysis.

Background: Pacifiers have been shown to affect maxillary growth related to the anatomic structure of the palate and forces placed upon it during sucking. This study compares and evaluates the mechanical behavior of pacifiers of different design and size (i.e.

Computational simulation of pacifier deformation and interaction with the palate.

Objectives: The objective of this study is to demonstrate that computational finite element models can be used to reliably simulate dynamic interaction between a pacifier, the palate, and the tongue during nonnutritive sucking (NNS). The interactions can be quantified by the results of finite element analyses which include deformation, strain, stress, contact force, and contact area.

Materials And Methods: A finite element model was created based upon CAD solid models of an infant pacifier and palate.

Effectiveness of the D-TERMINED Program of Repetitive Tasking for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of the D-TERMINED Program with standard behavior guidance techniques (SBGTs) used for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in a private dental setting.

Methods: A retrospective data analysis was performed from records of children with ASD who received treatment using either the D-TERMINED program or SBGTs at two private dental practices. Data were analyzed using chi-square, Fisher's exact, Wilcoxon Signed Rank, and Mann-Whitney U tests and logistic regression.