The effect of passive clear aligners on masticatory muscle activity in adults with different levels of oral parafunction.

Background: There is limited knowledge of the possible side-effects of clear aligners on jaw function.

Objectives: To determine the short-term effect of passive clear aligners (PCAs) on masticatory muscle activity (MMA), occlusal discomfort (OD) and temporomandibular disorder (TMD) symptoms in adults with different levels of self-reported oral parafunction.

Materials And Methods: Participants were screened for oral parafunctional behaviours using the oral behavioural checklist.

Investigation of dental materials as skin simulants for forensic skin/skull/brain model impact testing.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to measure the tear strength and hardness of four different dental silicones in comparison to that of porcine skin.

Methods: Specimens were prepared (n = 20/group) according to ASTM D624-00, using three hydrophilic vinyl polysiloxane impression materials, one duplication silicone, and fresh porcine skin. A universal testing machine was used to strain each test specimen until complete rupture and calculate its tear strength (kNm(-1)).