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Biomedical subjects

Jean C Wu

Publications and source records attributed to Jean C Wu.

3 recordsLinked to original sources

Reconstructive materials and bone tissue engineering in implant dentistry.

Periodontal function for natural teeth and dental implants depends strongly on the mechanical integrity of the bone in the maxilla and mandible. Ongoing healthy bone remodeling around a natural tooth or implant is critical for longevity. Chemical factors that influence bone remodeling have been explored with the goal of enhancing the growth and maintenance of good quality bone. Less, but increasing, effort has been directed at understanding mechanical signals and factors, including those affected by implant/prosthesis materials that transmit loads directly to the surrounding bone. This article reviews research on the effects of synthetic materials and resulting mechanical stimuli on bone tissue engineering in dentistry.

Animals↗

In vitro deformation of acetyl resin and metal alloy removable partial denture direct retainers.

STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM: Acetyl resin removable partial denture (RPD) direct retainers may provide an esthetic alternative to conventional metal direct retainers. The effect of repeated stress on acetyl resin direct retainers is unknown. PURPOSE: This study compared deformation of acetyl resin and metal alloy RPD direct retainers after repeated dislodgments over a test die. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Ten acetyl resin (Thermoflex) and 10 metal alloy (Ticonium Premium 100) RPD direct retainers, fabricated to manufacturers' specifications, were dislodged over a stainless steel die by means of a laboratory test apparatus for a simulated 3-year period (5000 cycles). Occlusal and facial digital images made before and after cycling were measured (mm) for direct retainer deformation by using computer-imaging software (Scion Image 1.62). Student t tests (alpha=.05) were performed for statistical comparisons. RESULTS: A significant difference in deformation between acetyl resin and metal alloy direct retainers occurred in the occlusal view (P=.045), but not in the facial view (P=.832). Average deformation varied but was greatest in the occlusal view: 0.09 +/- 0.8 mm for acetyl resin direct retainers compared with 0.01 +/- 0.9 mm for metal alloy direct retainers. Average facial view deformations revealed no significant differences: 0.039 +/- 0.6 mm for metal alloy and 0.033 +/- 0.7 mm for acetyl resin direct retainers. CONCLUSION: Within the limitations of this in vitro study, significantly greater deformation resulted with acetyl resin compared with metal alloy direct retainers after 3 years of simulated use.

Dental Alloys↗

Tissue engineering in dentistry.

Advances in tissue engineering provide an increased level of understanding of the mechanical and chemical stimuli that regulate tissue responses. Oral tissue engineering can be applied to recreate missing osseous or dental structures or correct orofacial deformities, changing the patient's smile, midfacial height, and the soft tissue drape. Biomechanical principles can also be applied to tissue engineering to enhance the bone/tooth or bone/implant functionality and long-term stability. Advancements are also being achieved in the area of biomimetics that will allow the creation of new biologic replacements for missing oral structures. The opportunity for bioengineering to charter the course of tooth regeneration is an exciting prospect and will improve the quality of life for patients for decades to come.

Biomechanical Phenomena↗