Petra Saitos

Background/Objectives: Full-arch implant-supported prostheses have become a widely accepted solution for edentulous patients, yet long-term biological and mechanical complications remain a clinical concern. Methods: This retrospective study included 70 fully edentulous patients (362 implants) rehabilitated with either fixed or removable implant-supported prostheses. Data were collected on demographics, medical status, type and location of prostheses, implant type, abutments, method of fixation, and complications. Statistical analysis included Fisher’s exact test, the Mann–Whitney U test, and chi-squared tests, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. Results: Mechanical complications occurred in 41.4% of patients (29 out of 70), with framework fractures reported in eight cases (27.6%), ceramic chipping in six cases (20.7%), and resin discoloration in four cases (13.8%). The prostheses were fabricated using monolithic zirconia, metal–ceramic crowns, zirconia on titanium bars, and hybrid resin/PMMA on cobalt–chromium frameworks. Gingival inflammation was also noted in 41.4% of cases (n = 29), predominantly in posterior implant regions. Younger patients and those without systemic diseases showed a significantly higher incidence of mechanical complications. Conclusions: Two years post-treatment, mechanical and biological complications appear to be independent phenomena, not significantly associated with most prosthetic variables. Patient-specific factors, particularly age and general health status, may have greater predictive value than prosthetic design. Limitations of the study include its retrospective design and the lack of radiographic data to assess peri-implant bone changes.

Stomatognathic dysfunctions, particularly bruxism, orofacial pain, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, are frequently associated with anxiety and depression. However, the reverse hypothesis that these dysfunctions may act as peripheral stressors contributing to neuropsychological imbalance by activating the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis remains underexplored. Objective: To assess the relationship between the severity of stomatognathic symptoms and both physiological and psychological stress markers to determine whether such dysfunctions may influence or exacerbate anxiety and depressive disorders. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted on 120 adult patients. Clinical assessment was included evaluation of TMJ function, bruxism, and orofacial pain. Psychological screening was performed using validated questionnaires (GAD-7 for anxiety and PHQ-9 for depression). Electromyographic (EMG) analysis of the masseter and temporalis muscles was conducted, along with the quantification of salivary cortisol using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Multiple regression models were applied to identify statistically significant correlations (p < 0.05). Results: A positive correlation was found between the severity of stomatognathic dysfunction and scores on anxiety and depression measures, along with elevated salivary cortisol levels and increased masticatory muscle activity. Conclusions: These findings suggest a bidirectional relationship between stomatognathic dysfunctions and neuropsychological status, underscoring the potential value of integrated therapeutic approaches that combine dental care with psychological support.

Background/Objectives: Children with Down syndrome are predisposed to various oro-dental conditions, which can impact their oral-health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) and overall well-being. Given their critical role, parents’ and caregivers’ perceptions are essential for understanding the challenges in oral care access and quality. This narrative review aimed to synthesise the available evidence on parental and caregiver perceptions regarding oral health, OHRQoL, and dental care access for children with Down syndrome. Methods: A literature search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus, covering studies published between January 2015 and January 2025. The search included the keywords “Down syndrome”, “oral health”, “oral health-related quality of life”, “caregivers”, “parents”, “dental care access”, and “special needs children”. Thirteen studies were included after applying eligibility criteria, which selected original research focusing on the target population and themes. Results: The findings highlighted that oral health significantly affects the quality of life of children with Down syndrome, influencing their functional, emotional, and social well-being. Caregivers often reported a gap between perceived and clinically observed oral health. Barriers to dental care access included insufficient training of dental professionals, financial constraints, systemic limitations, and perceived biases. Variations across different countries also revealed the influence of cultural and healthcare system factors. Conclusions: Oral health plays a critical role in the lives of children with Down syndrome and their families. Strengthening caregiver education, improving communication, validating adapted OHRQoL instruments, and enhancing dental professionals’ training in special needs care are crucial steps to ensure equitable and family-centred oral healthcare.