A finite-element model study of occlusal schemes in full-arch implant restoration.

A three-dimensional finite-element model of a human mandible is presented, and the stresses and deformations computed for loading states induced by two different gnathologic reconstructions using six and four implants are discussed. Occlusal canine guidance and posterior and anterior group functions on cantilevered and distally supported prostheses have been simulated. The stress distributions generated by the different loading conditions on either the osseointegrated prosthesis or the bone tissue surrounding the implants are described.

Photopolymerization of dental composite matrices.

The kinetic behaviour of dental composite is traditionally studied, considering only the isothermal behaviour, whereas a fast and highly non-isothermal bulk polymerization is expected as a consequence of the significant heat developed due to the exothermic nature of the polymerization reaction. In this paper the photopolymerization kinetics of a commercial dental composite activated by visible light are analysed by differential scanning calorimetry. This technique is applied to determine the degree of reaction and the glass transition temperature of thin layers of the composite matrix, at different isothermal cure temperatures.

Blood in saliva of HIV seropositive drug abusers: possible implication in AIDS transmission.

We have studied hemoglobin concentration in saliva of anti-HIV positive and anti-HIV negative intravenous drug abusers (IVDA) and normal controls and the relationship between hemoglobin concentration in saliva and number of CD4+ cells and clinical status of AIDS in anti-HIV positive IVDA. 120 anti-HIV positive IVDA, 112 anti-HIV negative IVDA and 116 normal healthy subjects not belonging to any risk group for HIV infection completed the study. Saliva was collected at awakening before brushing teeth and the concentration of hemoglobin was determined.

[Occlusal planning according to classical gnathology].

The importance of perfect knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the stomatognathic complex for any understanding of the aetiopathogenic mechanisms behind temporomandibular joint pain dysfunction syndrome is emphasised and the fundamental concepts underlying the use of the bite plane as a valuable aid in the diagnosis and initial treatment of articular dysfunction are described.

[Free gingival graft in mucogingival surgery].

Palatine grafts, which today represent the simplest and most reliable technique for enhancing the adherent gum--a problem of great importance in periodontal treatment--are discussed together with other techniques designed for the same purpose. Bone site palatine grafts which restore adherent gum on the alveolar bone, are distinguished from osteo-dental site grafts which are proposed for the treatment of split gums and which only take partially on the radicular surface.

[Lateral sliding flaps in mucogingival surgery].

Reference is made to parodontal surgery techniques employing lateral sliding flaps mucogingival for the treatment of gingival schisis. Grupe & Warren (1965) proposed the use of a flap from the parts contiguous to that affected by the schisis. The technique was then developed by the introduction of bipapillar flaps and a flap taken from a toothless saddle.

[Clinico-statistical study of the period of formation and mineralization of the 3d molar].

Examination of 540 Italians indicated that the third molar may form between the 6th and 13th year of life. The statistical possibilities of forecasting agenesis of this tooth at different periods of life are evaluated in this light of the data obtained.