Separation of overlapping dental arch objects using digital records of illuminated plaster casts.

Background: Plaster casts of individual patients are important for orthodontic specialists during the treatment process and their analysis is still a standard diagnostical tool. But the growing capabilities of information technology enable their replacement by digital models obtained by complex scanning systems.

Method: This paper presents the possibility of using a digital camera as a simple instrument to obtain the set of digital images for analysis and evaluation of the treatment using appropriate mathematical tools of image processing.

Evaluation of dental morphometrics during the orthodontic treatment.

Background: Diagnostic orthodontic and prosthetic procedures commence with an initial examination, during which a number of individual findings on occlusion or malocclusion are clarified. Nowadays we try to replace standard plaster casts by scanned objects and digital models.

Method: Geometrically calibrated images aid in the comparison of several different steps of the treatment and show the variation of selected features belonging to individual biomedical objects.

Possibility of reconstruction of dental plaster cast from 3D digital study models.

Objectives: To compare traditional plaster casts, digital models and 3D printed copies of dental plaster casts based on various criteria. To determine whether 3D printed copies obtained using open source system RepRap can replace traditional plaster casts in dental practice. To compare and contrast the qualities of two possible 3D printing options--source system RepRap and commercially available 3D printing.

Concentrations of MMP-9 and TIMP-1 in lip tissue and their impact on cleft lip surgery healing.

Aim: To compare aspects of wound healing after cleft lip surgery performed within one week of age and wound healing after surgery performed within 2 - 4 months of age, especially concentrations of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-1 (TIMP-1) in tissue removed during surgery.

Methods: 34 tissue samples (26 boys and 8 girls) were removed during surgery within one week of age (n=19) or within 2 - 4 months of age (n=15). Tissue samples were separated into epidermis, dermis and mucous membrane.

Effectiveness of physiotherapy and GaAlAs laser in the management of temporomandibular joint disorders.

Objective: Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is a treatment method commonly used in physiotherapy for musculoskeletal disorders. The aim of this study was to monitor the function of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and surrounding tissues and compare the objective measurements of the effect of LLLT.

Background Data: LLLT has been considered effective in reducing pain and muscular tension; thus improving the quality of patients' lives.