• Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics
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• v.43 no.4
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• pp.42.1-42.7
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• 2018

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate the C-shaped root canal anatomy of mandibular second molars in a Korean population. Materials and Methods: A total of 542 teeth were evaluated using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). The canal shapes were classified according to a modified version of Melton's method at the level where the pulp chamber floor became discernible. Results: Of the 542 mandibular second molars, 215 (39.8%) had C-shaped canals, 330 (53%) had 3 canals, 17 (3.3%) had 2 canals, 12 (2.2%) had 4 canals, and 8 (1.7%) had 1 canal. The prevalence of C-shaped canals was 47.8% in females and 28.4% in males. Seventy-seven percent of the C-shaped canals showed a bilateral appearance. The prevalence of C-shaped canals showed no difference according to age or tooth position. Most teeth with a C-shaped canal system presented Melton's type II (45.6%) and type III (32.1%) configurations. Conclusions: There was a high prevalence of C-shaped canals in the mandibular second molars of the Korean population studied. CBCT is expected to be useful for endodontic diagnosis and treatment planning of mandibular second molars.

• The korean journal of orthodontics
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• v.49 no.5
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• pp.326-337
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• 2019

Objective: The objective of this study was to develop new parameters based on the foramina of the trigeminal nerve and to compare them with the conventional cephalometric parameters in different facial skeletal types. Methods: Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans and cephalograms from 147 adult patients (57 males and 90 females; mean age, 26.1 years) were categorized as Class I ($1^{\circ}$ < ANB < $3^{\circ}$), Class II (ANB > $5^{\circ}$), and Class III (ANB < $-1^{\circ}$). Seven foramina in the craniofacial area-foramen rotundum (Rot), foramen ovale (Ov), infraorbital foramen, greater palatine foramen, incisive foramen (IF), mandibular foramen (MDF), and mental foramen (MTF)-were identified in the CBCT images. Various linear, angular, and ratio parameters were compared between the groups by using the foramina, and the relationship between the new parameters and the conventional cephalometric parameters was assessed. Results: The distances between the foramina in the cranial base did not differ among the three groups. However, the Rot-IF length was shorter in female Class III patients, while the Ov-MTF length, MDF-MTF length, and Ov-MDF length were shorter in Class II patients than in Class III patients of both sexes. The MDF-MTF/FH plane angle was larger in Class II patients than in Class III patients of both sexes. Most parameters showed moderate to high correlations, but the Ov-MDF-MTF angle showed a relatively low correlation with the gonial angle. Conclusions: The foramina of the trigeminal nerve can be used to supplement assessments based on the conventional skeletal landmarks on CBCT images.

• Journal of the Korean Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
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• v.45 no.5
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• pp.276-284
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• 2019

Objectives: This study sought to compare efficiency results between the use of a customized implant (CI) and a reconstruction plate (RP) in mandibular defect reconstruction in an animal model. Materials and Methods: Fifteen rabbits underwent surgery to create a defect in the right side of the mandible and were randomly divided into two groups. For reconstruction of the mandibular defect, the RP group (n=5) received five-hole mini-plates without bone grafting and the CI group (n=10) received fabricated CIs based on the cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) data taken preoperatively. The CI group was further divided into two subgroups depending on the time of CBCT performance preoperatively, as follows: a six-week CI (6WCI) group (n=5) and a one-week CI (1WCI) group (n=5). Daily food intake amount (DFIA) was measured to assess the recovery rate. Radiographic images were acquired to evaluate screw quantity. CBCT and histological examination were performed in the CI subgroup after sacrifice. Results: The 1WCI group showed the highest value in peak average recovery rate and the fastest average recovery rate. In terms of reaching a 50% recovery rate, the 1WCI group required the least number of days as compared with the other groups ($2.6{\pm}1.3days$), while the RP group required the least number of days to reach an 80% recovery rate ($7.8{\pm}2.2days$). The 1WCI group showed the highest percentage of intact screws (94.3%). New bone formation was observed in the CI group during histological examination. Conclusion: Rabbits with mandibular defects treated with CI showed higher and faster recovery rates and more favorable screw status as compared with those treated with a five-hole mini-plate without bone graft.

• The Journal of Korean Academy of Prosthodontics
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• v.57 no.1
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• pp.57-65
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• 2019

Computer aided design and manufacturing and implant surgery using a guide template improve restoration-driven implant treatment procedures. This case utilized those digital technologies to make definitive prostheses for a patient. According to the work flow of digital dentistry, cone beam computed tomography established the treatment plan, which was followed to make the guide template for implant placement. The template guided the implants to be installed as planned. The customized abutments and surveyed fixed restorations were digitally designed and made. The metal framework of the removable partial denture was cast from resin pattern using an additive manufacturing technique, and the artificial resin teeth were replaced with the zirconia onlays for occlusal stability. These full mouth rehabilitation procedures provided functionally and aesthetically satisfactory results for the patient.

• The korean journal of orthodontics
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• v.49 no.3
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• pp.170-180
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• 2019

Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between the facial skeletal patterns and the shape of the mandibular symphysis in adults with malocclusion by using a structural equation model (SEM). Methods: Ninety adults who had malocclusion and had records of facial skeletal measurements performed using cone-beam computed tomography were selected for this study. The skeletal measurements were classified into three groups (vertical, anteroposterior, and transverse). Cross-sectional images of the mandibular symphysis were analyzed using generalized Procrustes and principal component (PC) analyses. A SEM was constructed after the factors were extracted via factor analysis. Results: Two factors were extracted from the transverse, vertical, and anteroposterior skeletal measurements. Latent variables were extracted for each factor. PC1, PC2, and PC3 were selected to analyze the variations of the mandibular symphyseal shape. The SEM was constructed using the skeletal variables, PCs, and latent variables. The SEM showed that the vertical latent variable exerted the most influence on the mandibular symphyseal shape. Conclusions: The relationship between the skeletal pattern and the mandibular symphysis was analyzed using a SEM, which showed that the vertical facial skeletal pattern had the highest effect on the shape of the mandibular symphysis.

• The korean journal of orthodontics
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• v.51 no.3
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• pp.145-156
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• 2021

Objective: The aim of this retrospective study was to assess the midfacial soft tissue changes following maxillary expansion using micro-implant-supported maxillary skeletal expanders (MSEs) in young adults by cone-beam computerized tomography (CBCT) and to evaluate the correlations between hard and soft tissue changes after MSE usage. Methods: Twenty patients (mean age, 22.4 years; range, 17.6-27.1) with maxillary transverse deficiency treated with MSEs were selected. Mean expansion amount was 6.5 mm. CBCT images taken before and after expansion were superimposed to measure the changes in soft and hard tissue landmarks. Statistical analyses were performed using paired t-test and Pearson's correlation analysis on the basis of the normality of data. Results: Average lateral movement of the cheek points was 1.35 mm (right) and 1.08 mm (left), and that of the alar curvature points was 1.03 mm (right) and 1.02 mm (left). Average forward displacement of the cheek points was 0.59 mm (right) and 0.44 mm (left), and that of the alar curvature points was 0.61 mm (right) and 0.77 mm (left) (p < 0.05). Anterior nasal spine (ANS), posterior nasal spine (PNS), and alveolar bone width showed significant increments (p < 0.05). Changes in the cheek and alar curvature points on both sides significantly correlated with hard tissue changes (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Maxillary expansion using MSEs resulted in significant lateral and forward movements of the soft tissues of cheek and alar curvature points on both sides in young adults and correlated with the maxillary suture opening at the ANS and PNS.

• The korean journal of orthodontics
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• v.51 no.4
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• pp.250-259
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• 2021

Objective: The aim of this study was to compare the differences in mandibular posterior anatomic limit (MPAL) distances stratified by vertical patterns in patients with skeletal Class III malocclusion by using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Methods: CBCT images of 48 patients with skeletal Class III malocclusion (mean age, 22.8 ± 3.1 years) categorized according to the vertical patterns (hypodivergent, normodivergent, and hyperdivergent; n = 16 per group) were analyzed. While parallel to the posterior occlusal line, the shortest linear distances from the distal root of the mandibular second molar to the inner cortex of the mandibular body were measured at depths of 4, 6, and 8 mm from the cementoenamel junction. MPAL distances were compared between the three groups, and their correlations were analyzed. Results: The mean ages, sex distribution, asymmetry, and crowding in the three groups showed no significant differences. MPAL distance was significantly longer in male (3.8 ± 2.6 mm) than in female (1.8 ± 1.2 mm) at the 8-mm root level. At all root levels, MPAL distances were significantly different in the hypodivergent and hyperdivergent groups (p < 0.001) and between the normodivergent and hyperdivergent groups (p < 0.01). MPAL distances were the shortest in the hyperdivergent group. The mandibular plane angle highly correlated with MPAL distances at all root levels (p < 0.01). Conclusions: MPAL distances were the shortest in patients with hyperdivergent patterns and showed a decreasing tendency as the mandibular plane angle increased. MPAL distances were significantly shorter (~3.16 mm) at the 8-mm root level.

• Imaging Science in Dentistry
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• v.51 no.2
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• pp.175-185
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• 2021

Purpose: The primary objective of this study was to analyze the thickness and height of alveolar bone around the maxillary and mandibular incisors. Additionally, this study aimed to compare bone parameters between Caucasian (CC) and African American (AA) female patients. Materials and Methods: In this retrospective pilot study, 50 female subjects(25 CC and 25 AA) were included. The inclusion criteria were AA or CC women between the ages of 18 and 50 with a normo-divergent facial pattern and Angle's class I, end-on class II, or mild class III malocclusion. The distance from the cementoenamel junction (CEJ) to the buccal and lingual alveolar crest; the alveolar ridge thickness at the mid-root and apex; and the buccal and lingual bone thickness at 3, 6, and 9mm from the CEJ were measured. Results: No significant difference was found (P>0.05) in the cortical bone thickness at 3mm, 6mm, or 9mm from the alveolar crest between CC and AA populations for most measurements. A significant difference in bone thickness was found (P<0.05) for the lingual surface of the central incisor, with maxillary bone thickness found to be higher than mandibular bone thickness. The measurements of lingual thickness were larger than those of buccal thickness for both races. Conclusion: There were no differences in maxillomandibular anterior alveolar bone measurements between normo-divergent adult AA and CC women, except for a few parameters at varying locations. However, future studies can be planned based the current pilot study data, which may provide valuable information.

• Imaging Science in Dentistry
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• v.51 no.1
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• pp.17-25
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• 2021

Purpose: This study was performed to investigate mandibular canal displacement in patients with ameloblastoma using a 3-dimensional mirrored-model analysis. Materials and Methods: The sample consisted of computed tomographic scans of patients with ameloblastoma (n=10) and healthy controls (n=20). The amount of mandibular canal asymmetry was recorded as a continuous variable, while the buccolingual (yaw) and supero-inferior (pitch) directions of displacement were classified as categorical variables. The t-test for independent samples and the Fisher exact test were used to compare groups in terms of differences between sides and the presence of asymmetric inclinations, respectively (P<0.05). Results: The length of the mandibular canal was similar on both sides in both groups. The ameloblastoma group presented more lateral (2.40±4.16 mm) and inferior (-1.97±1.92 mm) positions of the mental foramen, and a more buccal (1.09±2.75 mm) position of the middle canal point on the lesion side. Displacement of the mandibular canal tended to be found in the anterior region in patients with ameloblastoma, occurring toward the buccal and inferior directions in 60% and 70% of ameloblastoma patients, respectively. Conclusion: Mandibular canal displacement due to ameloblastoma could be detected by this superimposed mirrored method, and displacement was more prevalent toward the inferior and buccal directions. This displacement affected the mental foramen position, but did not lead to a change in the length of the mandibular canal. The control group presented no mandibular canal displacement.

• Imaging Science in Dentistry
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• v.52 no.2
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• pp.155-164
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• 2022

Purpose: The aim of this study was to systematically screen the literature for studies reporting cosmetic material in the oral and maxillofacial complex to shed light on the types of cosmetic materials, their radiographic appearance, and possible complications. Materials and Methods: Five electronic databases were reviewed for eligible studies. The general search terms were "cosmetic," "filler," "face," and "radiograph." Demographics, material types, clinical and radiographic presentation, and complications were recorded. Results: Thirty-one studies with 53 cases met the inclusion criteria. The mean age was 52.6±15.4 years with a 4 : 3 female-to-male ratio. The most common material was calcium hydroxyapatite (CaHa) (n=14, 26.4%), found incidentally. The materials were generally located within the upper cheek and zygoma (n=35, 66.0%), radiographically well-defined (n=44, 83%), and had no effects on the surrounding structures (n=27, 50.9%). The internal structure was radiopaque (calcification, hyperdensity) for gold wires, CaHa, bone implants, and secondary calcification or ossification. Outdated cosmetic materials or non-conservative techniques were infiltrative, had effects on the surrounding structures, and presented with clinical signs, symptoms, or complications. Conclusion: Conventional radiography, cone-beam computed tomography, and multi-detector computed tomography are useful to differentiate several cosmetic materials. Their magnetic resonance imaging appearance was highly variable. The infrequent inclusion of cosmetic materials in the differential diagnosis implies that medical and dental specialists may be unfamiliar with the radiographic appearance of these materials in the face.