Actual Dentistry

Prevalence of Organ of Vision Lesions in the Professional Practice of a Dentist and Their Prevention.

2026-07-10T10:01:36+03:00

Features of the Relationship Between Periodontal Diseases and Somatic Pathology: A Literature Review

2026-08-03T18:25:10+03:00

Background. Periodontal diseases represent one of the leading causes of oral tissue destruction worldwide and continue to pose a significant challenge to both dental practice and public health. Increasing evidence indicates that chronic inflammation of the periodontal tissues is closely associated with a broad spectrum of systemic disorders, particularly those affecting the cardiovascular, endocrine, gastrointestinal, respiratory, and immune systems. Disturbances in general health may alter host immune responses and tissue metabolism, thereby promoting the initiation and progression of periodontal inflammation, whereas, conversely, chronic oral infection may contribute to the systemic inflammatory burden.

Objective. This review aims to critically evaluate contemporary scientific evidence regarding the relationship between periodontal diseases and systemic disorders. Particular attention is given to the biological mechanisms responsible for this bidirectional interaction, including the influence of periodontal inflammation on systemic health and the impact of chronic systemic diseases on the structure and function of periodontal tissues. In addition, the review seeks to summarize current knowledge of the pathogenic pathways involved and to determine their clinical significance for improving preventive and therapeutic strategies.

Materials and Methods. A comprehensive literature review was performed using a structured search of the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases between January and February 2026. The review methodology was developed in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) recommendations. Publications issued between 2010 and 2024 were screened using combinations of the following Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms: Periodontitis, Periodontal Diseases, Systemic Diseases, Diabetes Mellitus, Cardiovascular Diseases, Atherosclerosis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Respiratory Tract Diseases, Gastrointestinal Diseases, and Chronic Inflammation. Boolean operators AND and OR were applied to maximize the retrieval of relevant studies.

Results. The available evidence demonstrates that chronic generalized periodontitis develops through complex interactions among microbial, immunological, metabolic, and environmental factors. Systemic diseases are frequently accompanied by impaired immune regulation, microvascular dysfunction, and metabolic abnormalities that accelerate periodontal tissue destruction. At the same time, persistent periodontal infection contributes to chronic low-grade systemic inflammation, which may adversely influence the onset, progression, and prognosis of several systemic disorders. The strongest evidence for a bidirectional association has been reported for diabetes mellitus, whereas substantial epidemiological data also support links with cardiovascular diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, respiratory disorders, and gastrointestinal diseases.

Conclusion. Current scientific evidence indicates that periodontal diseases and systemic disorders influence one another through multiple interconnected biological pathways. Recognition of these interactions supports the implementation of an integrated, multidisciplinary approach that combines periodontal management with the assessment of the patient’s systemic health. Such an approach may improve treatment outcomes, reduce the burden of chronic inflammation, and decrease the risk of both oral and systemic complications.

The Use of Dexamethasone in Maxillofacial Surgery: A Literature Review with Regard to the Ukrainian Experience

2026-07-30T09:31:44+03:00

Objective — to conduct a systematic analysis of evidence-based data regarding the effectiveness and safety of dexamethasone in the perioperative management of dental implantation.

Materials and Methods. A literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar for the period 2013–2024 using the keywords: dexamethasone, dental implant, postoperative pain, swelling, trismus, glucocorticoids. Analyzed parameters included dosages (1–8 mg), routes of administration (oral, intramuscular, intravenous, submucosal, topical), visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores, swelling volume, degree of trismus, and the frequency of adverse events.

Results and Discussion. Dexamethasone reduced pain intensity by 30–45%, swelling by 25–43%, and trismus by ~30%. The greatest effect was observed with preoperative administration of 4–8 mg 30–60 minutes prior to implantation. Adverse events were minor (3–5% of cases) and predominantly presented as transient hyperglycemia in patients with diabetes mellitus. Ukrainian clinical data confirm the feasibility of short-term dexamethasone regimens with no negative impact on osteogenesis.

Conclusions. Dexamethasone is an effective, safe, and pathogenetic-based component of pharmacological support in dental implantation. A single preoperative dose of 4 mg is optimal for most patients. Conducting Ukrainian multicenter randomized controlled trials (RCTs) is recommended to standardize relevant protocols.

Assessment of the Oral Health Status of Women of Reproductive Age Using Hormonal Contraception

2026-08-10T19:01:31+03:00

Relevance. Determining the role and extent of hormonal influences on the oral health of women of reproductive age is of particular clinical importance, given the widespread use of hormonal contraceptive methods worldwide.

Aim. To analyze contemporary scientific literature regarding the specific features of oral health in women of reproductive age using hormonal contraception.

Materials and methods. A search of scientific publications published between 2005 and 2025 was conducted across the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, ResearchGate, and Google Scholar databases using predefined keyword combinations. The study employed theoretical synthesis, grouping, comparative analysis, and data generalization.

Results and discussion. The review revealed that the vast majority of researchers acknowledge the adverse effects of hormonal contraception on periodontal tissues and oral microbiome composition. However, certain findings remain heterogeneous, which can be attributed to variations in pharmacological composition, dosage, treatment duration, and differences in study designs.

Conclusions. Although hormonal contraception is a widely utilized family planning method, it should be recognized as a key modifying risk factor for women’s oral health, necessitating appropriate interdisciplinary monitoring and targeted preventive strategies.

Historical Aspects of the Development of Forensic Odontology in Ukraine: From the Middle Ages to the Present Day

2026-07-22T12:03:22+03:00

Background. Forensic odontology is an interdisciplinary field that integrates expertise from dentistry, forensic medicine, and criminalistics. This branch of forensic examination plays a pivotal role in human identification, the analysis of maxillofacial injuries, bite mark examination, and the evaluation of dental care quality. Analyzing the historical trajectory of forensic odontology in Ukraine across different eras allows for a systematic understanding of its development and helps forecast future trends and prospects in the field.

Aim. To identify and systematize the historical stages of the development of forensic odontology in Ukraine from the 9th century through the first quarter of the 21st century.

Materials and Methods. A total of 32 printed and 67 digital historical sources regarding forensic odontology research in Ukraine across various historical periods were analyzed.

Results. The article presents a detailed breakdown of the three historical stages in the development of forensic odontology in Ukraine. For each stage, the key figures who contributed to the establishment of forensic odontology as a distinct field are highlighted, including specialists in forensic medicine (M. S. Bokarius, M. O. Obolonsky, etc.) and dentistry (I. M. Starobinsky, O. E. Rauer, A. I. Rybakov, etc.). From a historical perspective, the article highlights the establishment and activities of the Scientific and Educational Center of Forensic Dentistry in Uzhhorod, as well as the scientific and practical contributions of key scholars, including Professor V. D. Mishalov (Head of the Department of Forensic Medicine at P. L. Shupyk National Healthcare University of Ukraine), Professor Ye. Ya. Kostenko (Director of the Scientific and Educational Center of Forensic Dentistry), and M. Yu. Honcharuk-Khomyn, PhD. Additionally, the publication of the textbook Forensic Dentistry by Professor B. V. Mykhailichenko and co-authors is noted. Finally, current challenges and development perspectives of this interdisciplinary field are outlined.

Conclusions. An analysis of the historical development of forensic odontology enables tracing the evolution of this discipline and evaluating the key milestones that have advanced human identification methods based on dental status. The article delineates the historical stages of forensic odontology in Ukraine from the earliest elements of forensic medical and dental examination in the 9th century through the first quarter of the 21st century—a period marked by expanding international cooperation, digital transformation, and advanced research methodologies. Special emphasis is placed on the integration of forensic dentistry into higher medical education in Ukraine, the contributions of Ukrainian scholars, and modern challenges stemming from armed conflicts and mass casualty events. Currently, the advancement of this field relies on implementing innovative technological solutions, unifying expert methodologies, fostering international collaboration, and systematically enhancing specialist training. Forensic odontological expertise plays a critical role in judicial proceedings, human identification, and criminal investigations. Achieving its full potential requires addressing key challenges, notably the continuous professional development of experts and the timely integration of cutting-edge technological tools into routine practice.

Correction of Periodontal Microcirculatory Disorders in Patients with Arterial Hypertension Associated with War-Induced Stress

2026-08-06T13:58:00+03:00

Background: Hypertensive disease remains one of the leading contributors to cardiovascular morbidity and mortality worldwide and significantly impairs the quality of life of patients with chronic periodontitis. Concurrently, war-induced stress has emerged as a major aggravating factor in cardiovascular pathology, exerting adverse effects on endothelial function and exacerbating microvascular dysfunction.

Objective: To evaluate the clinical efficacy of an L-arginine-based pharmacological composition (Patent No. 97987) as part of comprehensive therapy in patients with hypertensive disease associated with war-induced stress and concomitant generalized chronic periodontitis through laser Doppler flowmetry evaluation of periodontal microcirculation.

Materials and Methods: A total of 82 patients with hypertensive disease, stress-induced vascular disorders, and generalized chronic periodontitis were enrolled in the study. Comprehensive periodontal examinations were performed before and after treatment. Clinical efficacy was assessed using the Schiller–Pisarev test, Papillary-Marginal-Alveolar (PMA) index, O’Leary Plaque Index, Green–Vermillion Simplified Oral Hygiene Index (OHI-S), and Kulazhenko vacuum test. Periodontal microcirculation and endothelial reactivity (Amax E) were quantitatively evaluated by laser Doppler flowmetry (LAKK-02) with wavelet analysis.

Results: Incorporation of the proposed L-arginine-based pharmacological composition into comprehensive therapy yielded significant improvements in clinical and microcirculatory outcomes (p < 0.05). Treatment led to a marked reduction in periodontal inflammation, as evidenced by decreased PMA index values, prolonged hematoma formation time in the Kulazhenko test, optimized oral hygiene indices, and statistically significant enhancement of microvascular perfusion across all periodontal regions of the maxilla and mandible.

Conclusions: The application of the L-arginine-based pharmacological composition substantially enhances the efficacy of comprehensive therapy in patients with hypertensive disease, war-induced stress, and generalized chronic periodontitis, restoring endothelial function and significantly improving periodontal microcirculation.

Preventive Dentistry as a Guarantee of Health: “Gum Health Day” 2026

2026-07-30T10:43:43+03:00

Background. Modern periodontology views periodontal diseases not merely as localized oral pathologies, but as critical components of systemic health. Disease prevention remains the cornerstone of overall wellness. Among international public health initiatives, “Gum Health Day,” organized by the European Federation of Periodontology (EFP), represents one of the most prominent frameworks for advancing preventive dentistry.

Objective. To analyze oral and periodontal health parameters among young adults within the framework of the international event “Gum Health Day 2026.”

Materials and Methods. A total of 12 young adults underwent comprehensive preventive periodontal and oral examinations during the “Gum Health Day 2026” initiative. Clinical evaluation included the DMFT index, O’Leary Plaque Index, Bleeding on Probing (BOP) index, and Periodontal Screening and Recording (PSR) codes. Local and systemic risk factors were recorded, and the gathered data underwent statistical analysis (M ± m, Me[Q_I–Q_III]).

Results and Discussion. A high prevalence of periodontal disease was established among the examined cohort (66.7%, n = 8), represented by dental plaque-induced gingivitis. Key local and systemic risk factors affecting oral health were identified, predominantly inadequate oral hygiene, orthodontic anomalies/occlusal pathology, and nicotine product consumption (smoking).

Conclusions. Periodontal disease prevention, risk factor identification, early diagnosis, and the promotion of a oral and gum health culture constitute essential strategic priorities in modern dentistry. Disease prevention is fundamental to preserving both oral and systemic health.

The Impact of Surgical Guides on the Accuracy of Dental Implant Placement

2026-07-22T17:52:35+03:00

Objective. This review aimed to examine the impact of digital treatment planning and various surgical guide systems on the accuracy of dental implant placement by comparing planned and postoperative implant coordinates. An additional objective was to analyze clinical, anatomical, and technical variables influencing the precision of guided implant surgery.

Materials and Methods. A narrative review of contemporary peer-reviewed publications was performed to evaluate current approaches to digital implant planning and computer-guided implant surgery. Particular attention was given to cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT)-based virtual planning, the characteristics of tooth-, mucosa-, and bone-supported surgical guides, stereolithographic manufacturing technologies, planning software, and various factors that may affect the accuracy of implant placement.

Results. The available evidence indicates that digitally guided implant placement generally provides greater positional accuracy than conventional freehand surgery, resulting in significantly lower linear and angular deviations from the virtual treatment plan. The precision of implant positioning is enhanced when prosthetically driven planning is combined with accurate three-dimensional imaging and an appropriate guide-support design. Nevertheless, the final outcome remains influenced by numerous variables, including bone density and morphology, soft tissue thickness, implant dimensions, guide stability, the surgical protocol, manufacturing accuracy, and the clinician’s experience level.

Conclusion. The integration of digital planning with guided implant surgery contributes to more accurate, predictable, and safe implant placement while facilitating prosthetically driven treatment. Despite these advantages, clinicians should recognize the cumulative effect of technical inaccuracies and patient-related anatomical factors that may compromise surgical precision. Future prospective clinical studies using standardized assessment methods are required to compare different guide-support concepts and to further define the contribution of individual variables to implant placement accuracy.

Cervical Vertebral Maturation as a Moderator of the Relationship Between Sagittal Malocclusion Type (Skeletal vs Dentoalveolar) and Dynamic Postural Balance in Children and Adolescents: A sex-stratified analysis

2026-08-10T18:00:13+03:00

Introduction. The relationship between sagittal malocclusions and postural balance remains controversial due to inconsistent findings in previous literature and insufficient consideration of biological age and skeletal maturation. Cervical Vertebral Maturation (CVM) may play a key role in postural adaptations; however, its moderating effect on the occlusion–posture axis remains underinvestigated.

Aim. To evaluate the role of CVM as a moderator of the relationship between sagittal malocclusion type (skeletal vs dentoalveolar) and dynamic postural balance parameters in children and adolescents, accounting for sex differences.

Materials and Methods. A cross-sectional controlled study included 250 participants aged 9–18 years: 200 patients with sagittal malocclusions (Class II/1, Class II/2, and Class III) and 50 controls with physiological occlusion. The malocclusion type was determined based on clinical examination and cephalometric analysis (ANB angle), categorizing cases into skeletal and dentoalveolar forms. Biological maturity was assessed using the Cervical Vertebral Maturation (CVM) method (CS1–CS6 according to Baccetti et al.), categorized into prepubertal, pubertal, and postpubertal stages. Dynamic postural balance was evaluated using a Zebris FDM stabilometric platform (center of pressure [CoP] displacement, sagittal instability, head inclination, and plantar load distribution). Statistical analysis involved ANOVA, non-parametric tests, Spearman correlation, and moderation analysis (PROCESS macro for SPSS, Model 1), stratified by sex and malocclusion class.

Results. Patients with skeletal malocclusions demonstrated the most pronounced impairments in dynamic postural balance during the pubertal growth peak (CS3–CS4), whereas dentoalveolar forms showed no significant deviations from age norms. Moderation analysis revealed a statistically significant moderating effect of CVM stage on the relationship between skeletal malocclusion and postural balance parameters in males (p < 0.05), whereas in females this effect did not reach statistical significance.

Conclusions. Cervical Vertebral Maturation (CVM) serves as a key biological moderator of the relationship between sagittal malocclusion type and dynamic postural balance. The most pronounced postural disturbances occur in males with skeletal malocclusions during the pubertal growth period, underscoring the necessity of incorporating biological age and sex into the comprehensive functional assessment of orthodontic patients.