The function and durability of Implant based rehabilitation of the dentition has proved to be comparable to traditional prosthodontics. However, loss of implants do take place from time to time as the result of inadequate osseointegration or as the result of peri-implantitis. In addition to methodological and materials related subjects research in this field has […]

Dental materials are easily colonized by bacteria, and microbial attack is the main cause of dental implant failure and periodontitis. The aim of this project was to formulate nanoparticle-based (NPsol) coatings that reduce bacterial adherence on materials used in dentistry. Pre-treatment of the surfaces with such coatings could create a time window that allows for killing of the surrounding bacteria prior to or shortly after adhesion. One option is to apply antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT).

The buildup of dental plaque is the first step towards the oral diseases caries and periodontitis. Identification of pathogenic substances and matrix components is of importance when choosing an appropriate treatment plan. Hyperspectral imaging combines spectral- and spatial information, providing new possibilities for precise optical characterization of biological tissue [1,2], including dental plaque.

The increased occurrence of antibiotic resistance in general necessitates development of alternative antimicrobial drugs or methods. Further, certain cases of periodontitis respond poorly to conventional treatment. The principle of photodynamic therapy, currently used against certain cancers, may be a practical treatment modality for oral infections, presumably with low possibility for development of resistance. The treatment requires the presence of light-absorbing molecules (photosensitizer; PS) and irradiation with a light source emission that spectrally matches the light-absorption of the PS.

Primary osteoporosis signifies the loss of trabecular bone mass following menopause and is linked to decreased production of estrogen. The condition increases the risk of traumatic fractures of peripheral bones such as wrist or femur and compression fractures of the spine. The degree of osteoporosis is determined by assessing the mineral density of different skeletal bones. Jawbone, including the tooth supporting alveolar process, may also be affected by osteoporosis.