Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Evaluation Of A No-Code Ai Model For Detecting Periapical Radiolucencies: Impact Of Anatomical Region On Diagnostic Performance, Manal Hamdan, Kevin W. Yu, Marguerite Miller, Stephanie J. Sidow, Zaid Badr, Sergio E. Uribe

School of Dentistry Faculty Research and Publications

Background

To develop a no-code artificial intelligence (AI) model for the detection of apical radiolucent lesions and to assess how lesion location influences the model’s diagnostic performance.

Methods

312 periapical radiographs were retrospectively collected, each accompanied by a corresponding cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scan obtained within six months and a radiology report authored by board-certified oral and maxillofacial radiologists. These reports served as the reference standard, and all findings were cross-verified by the primary investigator through CBCT review. The dataset included 181 images with at least one apical radiolucent lesion and 131 lesion-free controls. Using the no-code AI platform LandingLens …

J Mich Dent Assoc Nov. 2026

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The November 2026 issue of the Journal of the Michigan Dental Association provides comprehensive coverage of professional, legal, and operational developments impacting Michigan dentists. Key topics include an analysis of dental emergency visits at Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), leadership principles within organized dentistry, advocacy efforts surrounding Senate Bill 105 regarding virtual credit card reimbursement fees, practice transition, embezzlement prevention, employee documentation compliance, and member services. This issue highlights community, equity, and legislative engagement aimed at supporting dental practices and improving statewide public oral health.

Nov. 2026 From The Editor - Wicked Problems, Shared Solutions, Romesh Nalliah

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This editorial reflects on systemic issues in public oral health through the historical tragedy of Deamonte Driver and broader national statistics on emergency department fatalities from dental conditions. It emphasizes the complex, 'wicked' nature of oral healthcare access and highlights research in this issue examining how Michigan's Federally Qualified Health Centers handle emergency care. The editor urges member dentists to actively participate in organized dentistry and legislative advocacy to achieve meaningful, long-term health policy reform.

Nov. 2026 The Back Page - Life Membership Status Awarded To 70 Members, Mda Membership Department Staff

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The Back Page celebrates seventy Michigan Dental Association members who achieved Life Membership status in 2026. Organized by local dental districts (including Central, Cloverland, Detroit, Jackson, Kalamazoo Valley, Lakeland Valley, Oakland County, and West Michigan), the feature honors their decades of clinical practice, dedicated service, and sustained support for organized dentistry across Michigan.

Analysis Of The Dental Emergency Visits At Fqhcs In Michigan And Recommendations For Change, Xuesi Hua, Martha Mccomas, Elizabeth Hatfield

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This mixed-methods study evaluates emergency dental operations across Michigan's Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs). Utilizing clinician interviews, surveys, and state usage data, the authors examine care delivery models, identify clinician and patient barriers to access, and analyze reasons why patients utilize hospital emergency departments rather than community health centers. System-level recommendations are proposed to optimize emergency triage, expand capacity, and improve outcomes for underserved populations.

The Potential Relationship Between Red Complex Tannerella Forsythia And Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Abby Dibble Ms, Kristi M. Soileau

New Orleans Dental Association News

The pathogenesis of periodontitis is no longer attributed to a single infectious organism but rather to a dysbiosis-affiliated microbial community that disrupts host immune response. Within this polymicrobial ecosystem, Tannerella forsythia has emerged as one of the principal periodontal pathogens because of its ability to evade host defenses, promote tissue destruction, and establish cooperative interactions with neighboring microorganisms. As a Gram-negative, obligate anaerobic bacterium belonging to the red complex group, T. forsythia is consistently associated with advanced periodontal disease and is increasingly recognized as an important contributor to both local periodontal destruction and systemic inflammation. A 2024 meta-analysis of ten …

The Whole Patient: What Fascia Reveals About Pain, Adaptation, And The Case For Treating Together, Kelly Davis Pt, Dpt, Faaompt, Mt

New Orleans Dental Association News

The final piece in this series looks at fascia and the autonomic nervous system — the connective tissue and nerve pathways linking the jaw, neck, and airway into one continuous system — and why both matter to dentistry. Dr. Davis draws on current fascia and pain science research, including work from the 2025 International Fascia Research Congress in New Orleans, to explain how a misaligned bite can travel through this tissue and surface as headaches, how tongue posture and breathwork affect jaw stability, and why complex, chronic cases so often need more than one discipline to make headway. Told partly …

Noda News October 2026

New Orleans Dental Association News

New Orleans Dental Association (NODA) News includes regular columns with regional news impacting the New Orleans membership including: columns from the President and Executive Director, feature articles relating to the field of dentistry, association events and upcoming activities, component news, continuing education opportunities, and classifieds.

The Lateral Recovery Position In Medical Vs Dental Emergencies, John Regis, Steven Saxe, Jason Ciccotelli, Saskia Richter, Jessica Immonen

The Journal of Integrative Physiology

The lateral recovery position is widely used in prehospital and clinical settings to help maintain airway patency in unconscious patients who are breathing spontaneously. Tracheal anatomy and asymmetries in respiratory structures, along with gravitational effects on soft tissues, may influence the efficacy and safety of this positioning. Clinical nuances related to the setting and secondary health concerns interestingly create disagreement on preferred side for lateral placement. This article explores the anatomical and physiological considerations that support the lateral recovery position—focusing on tracheal asymmetry and its implications for airway patency—along with emergency medical practices in medical versus dental emergencies. It also …

Effect Of Multiple Uses And Sterilization Of Abutment-Level Peek Implant Scan Bodies On Complete-Arch Intraoral Digital Scans Trueness: An In Vitro Study, Georgio Zeidan, Maryse Nassif, Ghida Lawand, Hani Tohme

International Arab Journal of Dentistry

Introduction: Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) implant scanbodies (ISBs) offer favorable optical properties for digital impressions but may be susceptible to wear and dimensional changes with repeated clinical use and sterilization. While previous studies have examined these variables separately, no investigation has simultaneously evaluated their combined effects on abutment-level PEEK ISBs in complete-arch implant situations.

Aim: To evaluate the effect of multiple uses and autoclave sterilization of abutment-level PEEK implants can bodies on the trueness of complete-arch intraoral digital scans in an in vitro setting.

Methods: A maxillary edentulous reference cast with four implants in an All-on-4 configuration was fabricated …

Efficacy Of Diode Laser As An Adjunct To Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy In The Treatment Of Stage Ii And Iii Periodontitis: A Randomized Clinical Trial, Heba Samir, Ayat Gamal-Abdelnaser, Marwa Elsayed

International Arab Journal of Dentistry

Objectives: The goal of periodontal therapy is to reduce the bacterial deposits in the pockets; which is mainly achieved by non surgical periodontal therapy (NSPT). Despite effective, it may sometimes be insufficient. Laser offered several advantages as bactericidal, disinfectant and healing accelerator. The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of the use of adjunctive diode laser to NSPT compared to NSPT alone in the treatment of periodontitis.

Methods: In this randomized controlled study with parallel groups, 12 periodontitis patients were randomly assigned to either control group (NSPT only, n=6) or intervention group (laser + NSPT, …

Influence Of Head Posture In Sitting And Standing Positions On The Vertical Dimension Of Rest Value In Dentate Patients: A Comparative Clinical Study, Mia Bardawil, Carole Abi Ghosn, Jihad Fakhouri

International Arab Journal of Dentistry

Introduction: This study investigates the value of the vertical dimension of rest (VDR) in dentate patients in different head postures, supported and unsupported by the headrest of the dental chair, as well as in standing position.

Methods: The VDR was measured and compared in 60 dentate individuals aged 20–25 in different positions (sitting with and without head support, and standing) three times per position. The head was aligned according to the Frankfurt plane when unsupported or standing. Data were analyzed using the Shapiro-Wilk test for normality and ANOVA to assess the effects of posture, gender, and their interaction. …

The Immediate Impact Of Fixed Appliances And Aligners On Perioral Soft Tissues And Speech: A Comparative Approach, Nissi Gurindapalli, Lakshmi Mani Kumari Nachu, Divya Bhavani Vasamsetti, Ramesh Kumar Budumuru, Lakshmi Manojna Nachu, Mohan Kumar Pasupuleti

International Arab Journal of Dentistry

Background and Objective: Facial aesthetics and self-presentation assume significant importance in modern society and augmenting interest in orthodontic treatment practices. Fixed labial, or regular, appliances, namely braces, and clear aligners are the most common orthodontic modalities, and these two vary in their effects on perioral soft tissues and speech. The objective of this study was to compare the immediate effects of fixed labial appliances and clear aligners on perioral soft tissues and speech.

Methods: Anin-vivo comparative study was conducted at Vishnu Dental College. The samples included an equal number of orthodontic patients who were randomly allocated into two …

Comparative Evaluation Of The Effect Of Different Desensitising Methods On The Retention Of Crowns Cemented With Resin Modified Gic: An In-Vitro Study, Zainab Inayatullah, Kartika N. Kumar, Punit Rs Khurana, Anju Aggarwal, Aditya Chaudhary, Naila Perween

International Arab Journal of Dentistry

Introductions: This in vitro study aimed to evaluate and compare the effect of three different desensitizing methods— Admira Protect, dentin bonding agent (Tetric N Bond), and diode laser—on the retention of porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns cemented with resin-modified glass ionomer cement (RMGIC).

Methods: Forty extracted, non-carious human premolars were prepared for full-coverage crowns and divided into four groups (n = 10): Group I (Control, no desensitizer), Group II (Admira Protect), Group III (Dentin bonding agent), and Group IV (Diode laser). Standardized tooth preparations were performed and PFM crowns were fabricated and cemented using RMGIC (RelyX Luting 2, 3M ESPE). …

Effect Of Beverages With Varying Acidity On The Surface Microhardness Of Resin Composites: An In Vitro Study, Vishnu S, Shweta Purohit, Yashas Dm, Mangala G K, Chinnu Mary Jose, Athira Bs

International Arab Journal of Dentistry

Introductions: The increasing consumption of acidic beverages has raised concerns regarding their impact on the longevity of composite resin restorations. Surface microhardness is a critical parameter for evaluating the mechanical performance and durability of restorative materials.

Aim: To evaluate and compare the effect of beverages with varying acidity on the surface microhardness of different composite resin materials and to assess the relationship between beverage pH and microhardness reduction.

Materials and Methods: This in vitro experimental study included 140 disc-shaped specimens of four composite resins: Filtek Z350 XT, Tetric N-Ceram, Beautifil II, and Charisma Smart (n = 35 …

Evaluation Of Enamel Demineralization Around Bonded Lingual Retainers Cured Using The Transillumination Technique: An In Vitro Sem Study, Monis Raza, Achint Juneja, Udit Chaudhary, Anju Treesa Jacob, Vikas Thakur, Aayush Sudan

International Arab Journal of Dentistry

Introduction: Polymerization technique may influence enamel demineralization around bonded lingual retainers by affecting adhesive integrity.

Methods: Eighty-four mandibular incisors were randomly allocated to conventional curing (30 s), transillumination (30 s), or combined curing (15 s each). Specimens underwent pH cycling and were evaluated using scanning electron microscopy. Demineralization was scored (0–3), and linear lesion depth was measured. Data were analyzed using Kruskal–Wallis, Bonferroni, and Mann–Whitney tests (p ≤ 0.05).

Results: Combined curing significantly reduced demineralization compared with conventional and transillumination protocols (p < 0.001). Gingival regions showed significantly greater demineralization than occlusal regions across all groups.

Conclusions: Combined curing improved enamel preservation and may be an effective strategy for bonded …

Comparing Condylar Parameters Assessed By Ultrasonic And Mechanical Axiography: An In Vivo Pilot Study, Mark Salame, Amine El Zoghbi, Marina Daher, Carole Abi Ghosn, Paul J. Boulos

International Arab Journal of Dentistry

Objectives: The objective of this clinical pilot study was to compare the condylar parameters (condylar path inclination and Bennett angle) obtained from two different axiographs: a mechanical axiography system and an ultrasonic axigraphy system, and thus to judge the reliability and degree of accuracy of the mechanical axiography compared with the ultrasonic axiography considered as a reference technique.

Methods: Eleven candidates, aged between 20 and 25 years, were selected (n = 11) following strict inclusion and exclusion criteria. Each individual underwent two axiographic recordings by a single experienced operator. The first one was done with an ultrasonic axiograph, …

Effectiveness Of Animated Video And Electronic Dental Booklet Among Children In Primary Healthcare Centers, Kediri, Indonesia: A Prospective Interventional Study, Arini Indriyasari, Sayekti Wahyuningsih, Indasah Ir, Yuli Peristiowati

International Arab Journal of Dentistry

Introductions: Dental caries and poor oral hygiene remain major public health problems among children in Indonesia. Conventional dental health education has shown limited effectiveness in achieving sustainable behavioral change. Digital media, such as an animated video and an electronic dental booklet (e-Saku Gigi), offer a promising strategy to improve oral hygiene behavior in children.

Aim: This study evaluated the effectiveness of a Dental Health Education (DHE) intervention using an animated video and e-Saku Gigi on oral hygiene status (OHI-S), dental caries experience (DMF-T), and the knowledge–attitude–behavior pathway.

Methodes: A two-stage design was used. The first stage employed an …

Destaining Of Stained Clear Aligners When Subjected To Different Cleaning Techniques: A Comparative In Vitro Analysis, Malik Cn Sadah, Raj Kumar Jaiswal, Amit Kumar Singh, Nishtha Srivastava, Stuti Raj, Ayushi Singh

International Arab Journal of Dentistry

Introduction: Clear aligners are widely used due to superior esthetics; however, staining and loss of transparency remain major clinical concerns. This study evaluated color changes in stained clear aligners after different destaining techniques.

Methods: In this in vitro comparative study, 40 new clear aligners were stained using coffee solution and divided into four groups: control, Invisalign cleaning crystals alone, crystals with ultrasonic cleaning, and crystals with motorized brushing. Color change was assessed using VITA Easyshade spectrophotometer, Adobe Photoshop LAB analysis, and Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Data were analysed using ANOVA, Tukey post hoc test, Kruskal–Wallis, and Mann–Whitney U …

Cholesterol Metabolism And Oral Health: An Integrative Review, Raíssa Colherinhas, Carla Guimarães Moutinho, Ana Cristina F Vinha, Carla Alexandra Lopes Andrade De Sousa E Silva

International Arab Journal of Dentistry

Background: This integrative review associated changes in cholesterol metabolism and oral diseases. Conditions such as periodontal disease, tooth loss and oral cancer may be influenced by imbalances in lipid levels through mechanisms involving inflammation, oxidative stress, and immune modulation.

Highlight: This review examined scientific studies published mainly in the last decade. The findings indicate consistent associations between hypercholesterolemia or hyperlipidemia and periodontal disease, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, cardiovascular conditions, peri-implant health, and tooth loss. Hypocholesterolemia was associated with oral squamous cell carcinoma. Periodontal disease was the most frequently investigated oral condition, representing almost half of the included studies.

Conclusion …

Psychological Therapy In The Management Of Temporomandibular Disorders: A Systematic Review, Pragatheeswari R, Kavitha M, Sarumathi T, Niveditha B, Barkavi Panchatcharam, Pavithra D, Samu Fathima A I, Vigneshwaran J

International Arab Journal of Dentistry

Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of psychological therapy in the management of temperomandibular disorders compared to other treatment modalities.

Methodology: Studies were selected according to PICO criteria, considering the RDC/TMD as a reference, improvement of pain and psychological parameters were the primary outcomes. Data search was mainly carried out through electronic search in several renowned databases: PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science and Google scholar. The publications collected were published between 2010 and 2024. Randomized clinical trials that compared the efficacy of psychological treatment modality with other conservative treatment modalities were screened and evaluated. A total of 5 …

Stem Cell-Based Therapies In Periodontology And Implant Dentistry: A Systematic Review And Meta-Analysis, Abdullah Saeed, Marycris Padrigo

International Arab Journal of Dentistry

Introduction: Periodontal disease and peri-implantitis remain the leading causes of tooth and implant loss, and conventional regenerative procedures consistently fall short of full structural restoration. Stem cell therapies have emerged as a promising alternative, operating through multi-lineage differentiation, immunomodulation via paracrine signaling, and extracellular vesicle communication. Prior systematic reviews, however, lacked methodological rigor — omitting clustering adjustments, REML/HKSJ estimation, prediction intervals, and publication bias modeling.

Aim: This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated whether stem cell therapy produces superior clinical and radiographic outcomes compared to cell-free controls in adults with periodontal or peri-implant bone defects.

Methods: Searches across …

Bioactive Resin-Based Composites For Direct Posterior Restorations: A Contemporary Narrative Review, Ruaa Neamah Muslim, Ghadeer Shakir Shabaa, Wasan Abdulridha Hasan

Maaen Journal for Medical Sciences

Background and Rationale: Failure of dental restorations due to secondary caries remains one of the common problems in restorative dentistry. In order to solve the shortcomings of conventional bioinert materials, bioactive composite resins have recently been developed, allowing fluoride, calcium, and phosphate ion delivery as well as reducing the acidic activity of biofilm.

Aim of the Review: This literature review evaluates chemistry, mechanisms of action, clinical effectiveness, and physical handling properties of resin-based bioactive materials used for direct posterior restoration in permanent dentition.

Material Categories Examined: This literature review includes such material categories as resin-modified glass ionomers, S-PRG-giomers …

Oct. 2026 - 5 Clinical Questions. Better Clinical Decisions., Timothy Rath

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This feature previews the continuing education program presented by Dr. Melissa Seibert at the 2027 Sun, Sand & CE Cruise. Focusing on minimally invasive caries management and evidence-based restorative dentistry, the article outlines five daily clinical challenges faced by practitioners. Topics include determining when to restore versus monitor lesions, evaluating caries risk, selecting therapeutic agents, and translating dental research into practical workflows. The piece emphasizes practical decision-making and peer networking to help clinicians improve patient outcomes and return to practice reenergized.

Oct. 2026 - A Lifetime Of Saying Yes To Service, Timothy Rath

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This biographical feature profiles Dr. Raymond Gist, celebrating his receipt of the key to the city of Flint, Michigan, and his six-decade career in dentistry. Tracing his journey from Flint to becoming the first Black president of the American Dental Association (ADA), the story highlights his dedication to patient care, mentorship, and leadership within organized dentistry. Dr. Gist encourages early-career and underrepresented dentists to embrace leadership roles and community involvement, demonstrating how committing to service elevates the profession and advances oral health equity.

Oct. 2026 - Mastery Creates Presence, Anish Gupta D.D.S.

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Written by oral surgeon Dr. Anish Gupta, this reflective essay explores the connection between clinical mastery and patient-centered hospitality in surgical practice. Defining practice core values as "be the best, do the best" and "unreasonable patient-centeredness," the author illustrates how technical expertise frees clinicians to be fully present and empathetic with anxious patients. The article emphasizes that clinical competence should serve to alleviate patient fear, remove practice friction, and elevate the healthcare experience through mindful, compassionate service.

Oct. 2026 At Your Service - Answers On Address Changes, Staff Credentials, And Retirement, Mda Membership Department Staff

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This member service Q&A feature provides practical administrative guidance for Michigan Dental Association members. It addresses legal requirements regarding patient requests for dental hygienist licensing credentials, clarifying that practices must provide names but are not required to provide license numbers. It outlines retirement procedures, detailing eligibility for reduced dues, retired life membership status, and continued participation in continuing education and volunteer initiatives. Additionally, the article guides members on seamlessly updating home address information and personal profiles using the online MDA Member Compass portal.

Oct. 2026 From The Editor - Advocacy Works. We've Seen It., Romesh Nalliah

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

In this editorial, the Editor-in-Chief emphasizes the vital role of professional advocacy in protecting patients and sustaining dental practices. Drawing inspiration from historical advocacy efforts, such as Benjamin Ricci's fight for institutionalized care standards, the article highlights recent victories achieved by the Michigan Dental Association. Key achievements include securing increased Medicaid reimbursement rates after decades of stagnation and advocating for the passage of Senate Bill 105 to eliminate burdensome virtual credit card fees. The author underscores that health policy change requires active engagement from dentists advocating on behalf of their patients and profession.

J Mich Dent Assoc Oct. 2026

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The October 2026 issue of the Journal of the Michigan Dental Association highlights advocacy, leadership, clinical practice, and practice management for Michigan dentists. The cover story examines how MDA advocacy led to the passage of Senate Bill 105, prohibiting forced virtual credit card transaction fees. Features include a profile on Dr. Raymond Gist, first Black ADA president; clinical guidance on caries management with Dr. Melissa Seibert; insights from the LEAD leadership program; and surgical mindfulness by Dr. Anish Gupta. Regular departments cover unlicensed employee legalities, supporting caregiver employees, open health insurance enrollment, and MDA organizational updates.

J Mich Dent Assoc Jul 2017

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Archival issues of the Journal of the Michigan Dental Association may include reports on the activities of the association and its members, clinical articles, information on legal and ethical practice considerations, and perspectives of interest to MDA members and those in the oral health profession.