Introduction. Dental erosion is a pathology characterized by the irreversible loss of dental structure due to certain non-bacterial acids. These acids may originate from internal sources such as gastroesophageal reflux and vomiting, among others. They can also come from external sources like alcohol consumption and acidic beverages. In addition, there is a relationship with bruxism, which can exacerbate dental erosion, attrition, abrasion, abfraction, and multiple combined factors, significantly compromising oral health. Objective. To consider the updated classification of maxillary anterior dentition affected by dental erosion. Methodology. This study was conducted as a descriptive investigative review. Searches were conducted in indexed databases such as PubMed, Scopus, SciELO, and Google Scholar, using relevant keywords and Boolean operators. Zotero software was used for bibliography management. Results. A total of forty-three studies were reviewed. The findings highlighted the effectiveness of the Tooth Wear Index (TWI), BEWE System, and ACE classification in evaluating dental erosion in the maxillary anterior dentition. These classifications provide clear and practical guidelines for diagnosis and treatment based on the severity and extent of dental wear, significantly improving the ability of dental health professionals to address this condition. Conclusion. TWI, BEWE System, and ACE classification effectively evaluate dental erosion.

Introduction.  Due to concerns about the prolonged duration of orthodontic treatment, various methods have been developed to reduce this time and provide greater comfort, well-being, and safety for both the patient and the operator. There are several modalities for accelerating tooth movement, such as surgical, biological, and physical techniques; however, surgical and biological approaches represent very invasive methods and are, therefore, less preferred by patients. Among the physical methods, vibration devices are widely accepted for their ease of use and convenience. These devices generate micropulses to apply controlled cyclic forces and can operate at frequencies equal to or higher than 90 Hz, referred to as high frequency, while those operating at frequencies equal to or lower than 45 Hz are classified as low frequency. Objective. Review the literature to determine whether the use of vibration devices generates a significant acceleration in orthodontic tooth movement.  Methodology.  An exhaustive literature review was carried out using different databases, including Pubmed, Cochrane and Google Scholar where information was collected from 21 articles, related to the use of vibration devices in orthodontics, regardless of the type of appliance used during treatment. Results.  The evidence provided by the 14 articles shows varied results, where 5 of them report a significant increase in the rate of acceleration of tooth displacement using vibration devices and the remaining 9 articles show that vibration devices influence tooth movement, but the acceleration obtained is not statistically significant. Conclusion.  Vibration devices can influence tooth movement; however, the rate of acceleration achieved through their use is not considerably significant. Nevertheless, this provides a valuable starting point for future research.

Introduction: The study examines the characteristics of the posterior ocular segment and its impact on the visual health of patients at the Instituto de la Vision in Manta and Portoviejo. It highlights the importance of understanding these characteristics to improve the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of ocular diseases. The research focuses on identifying patterns and characteristics using advanced imaging techniques and data analysis, considering factors such as age, gender, and medical history. Objective: To characterize the posterior ocular segment of patients at the Instituto de la Vision Manta-Portoviejo. Methodology: The study analyzes the characteristics of the posterior ocular segment of 433 patients with fundus abnormalities, previous diagnoses, special studies and corrected visual acuity who were treated in 2019, using a cross-sectional, correlational-causal/descriptive approach to identify significant patterns. Statistical tools such as SPSS version 26 were used, analyzing data through frequencies (n) and percentages (%). Results: The study reveals that glaucoma is more common in women, while macular edema predominates in men, primarily affecting individuals aged 61 to 80 years (48.1%). It emphasizes the need to improve eye health services for older adults and infrastructure in rural areas. Diabetic retinopathy (30.9%) and glaucoma (20.3%) are the most prevalent posterior segment pathologies, with a high proportion of bilateral involvement. Conclusion: The findings underscore the need for early detection and equitable access to diagnostic and treatment services. The importance of a multidisciplinary approach that incorporates the prevention and management of systemic conditions in care is highlighted. The study provides crucial information to improve optometric/ophthalmological clinical practice and raise awareness of the importance of regular fundus check-ups to improve care.

Introduction. Safety in collecting blood for transfusions is a critical aspect in transfusion medicine. One of the main concerns is bacterial contamination, which can compromise the quality of blood components and put the health of recipient patients at risk. Despite the implementation of strict skin disinfection procedures prior to puncture, bacteria present on the skin surface can get into the blood bags during the extraction process. Objective. Evaluate the efficacy of pre-collection bags in reducing bacterial contamination in blood donations. Methodology. A study was conducted on extramural collection donors. Skin samples were taken prior to puncture and from the pre-collecting bags. Cultures were performed to detect the presence of bacteria. The blood components were evaluated if the pre-collection bags were positive. Results. Of 75 samples, 93.33% of the skin samples did not present bacterial growth. Staphylococcus hominis was detected in 4 skin samples (5.33%) and in 1 pre-collection bag (1.33%). The blood components of the donations with positive cultures in the pre-collection bags do not show contamination. Conclusion. The use of pre-collection bags demonstrated efficacy in reducing bacterial contamination, minimizing the risks to the blood components obtained from donations. The additional cost involved in this device in the collection bags is justified by the benefit in terms of patient safety and efficiency in the handling of blood products justifying the investment.

Introduction: Endodontics focuses on diagnosing and treating pulp and periapical tissue diseases by cleaning microorganisms and shaping the canal for proper sealing. An accurate diagnosis is essential for selecting the rehabilitation that restores the functionality and aesthetics of the tooth. After treatment, it is crucial to assess structural loss to choose the appropriate rehabilitation. While posts were traditionally used, they can cause root fractures due to poor force distribution, especially in molars and premolars. As an alternative, endocrowns are proposed for more effective post-endodontic rehabilitation. Objective: To establish the clinical and radiological criteria for endodontic treatments for endocrowns through a meta-analysis. Methodology: An exhaustive systematic review was conducted across various databases such as PubMed, Scielo, Scopus, and Web of Science, among others. Data was compiled using Microsoft Office Excel 2016 for standardization. The studies were tabulated with the following data: Author, year of publication, abstract, introduction, methods, results, discussion, and other information, in accordance with the PRISMA and Modified CONSORT statements. The analyzed articles were evaluated based on the Cochrane guidelines, focusing on selection bias, performance bias, detection bias, and incomplete data bias. Results: The observed standardized mean differences ranged from 0.0273 to 1.4852, with most estimates being positive. The average standardized mean difference estimated using a random effects model was μ^=0.6425\hat{\mu} = 0.6425μ^​=0.6425 (95% CI: 0.0496 to 1.2354). Therefore, the average result differed significantly from zero (z = 2.1239, p = 0.0337). The Q test for heterogeneity was not significant, but there may still be some heterogeneity in the true results (Q (4) = 8.5752, p = 0.0726, tau² = 0.2431, I² = 53.6752%). Conclusion: It was concluded that there is no statistically significant difference between endocrown restoration and conservative treatment from the perspective of established endodontic criteria.

Introduction: It is estimated that half of the world's population has been infected with H. pylori at some point; infection usually occurs in childhood and can persist for life in the stomach if untreated. Objective: To compare the different diagnostic methods for H. pylori, and to describe new diagnostic alternatives currently available. Methodology: A detailed search of scientific databases was conducted, choosing relevant studies according to specific criteria. The characteristics of each diagnostic method, advantages and disadvantages, limitations present, using tables and narrative compilations were considered. Results: Accurate and efficient diagnostic methods that allow early identification of the presence of H. pylori were identified. In addition, molecular diagnostic methods such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) were described. Conclusion: This review emphasizes the relevance of timely diagnosis for H. pylori by highlighting the existing new diagnostic methods and the requirement for further research; since, despite advances in diagnosis, there are still challenges and limitations to be overcome. General area of study: Microbiology. Specific area of study: Bacteriology. Type of study: Original article.

Introduction: Healthcare-associated infections (HAI) are acquired inside hospitals, constituting a significant public health problem at the in-hospital level due to the increase in morbidity and mortality. The transmission of these infections occurs due to three factors: the agent, the host, and the environment. Furthermore, bacterial resistance poses a significant challenge due to the high resistance to beta-lactam antibiotics. Objective: To describe the characteristics of Enterobacterales from isolates from hospital surfaces using microbiological methods and evaluate susceptibility using the Kirby Bauer technique. Methodology: A descriptive, cross-sectional observational study was conducted. Samples were obtained from the operating room, newborns, neonatology, adult ICU, emergency room, and hospitalization at the Catholic University Hospital of Cuenca. The different bacterial species were identified using API 20E—Biomérieux galleries, and the susceptibility evaluation was elaborated using the Kirby-Bauer method. Results: A group of 16% of the total samples showed growth of different bacterial species, and strains of Pantoea spp 8%, Enterobacter cloacae 4%, Escherichia coli 2%, and Yersinia pestis 2% were identified. E. coli showed resistance to ceftazidime, amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, ceftriaxone, cefoxitin, ciprofloxacin, and amoxicillin; Yersinia pestis showed resistance to ceftazidime, amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, ceftriaxone, ciprofloxacin, and cefuroxime; and, in the same line, Pantoea spp and Enterobacter cloacae presented resistance to different beta-lactam antibiotics. Conclusion: Enterobacterales with significant resistance profiles on hospital surfaces were evident.

Introduction. Oroantral communication (OAC), a connection between the oral cavity and the SM, is a common surgical complication in exodontia. If not treated in time, it can cause sinusitis and oroantral fistulas (OAF). Diagnosis includes radiographic testing and, in advanced cases, surgical intervention, such as the buccal advancement flap, is required. Objective. The purpose of this research project is to establish the management of oroantral communications in the field of general dentistry. It was conducted through an exhaustive review of scientific literature, based on the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systemic Reviews and Meta-Analysis) indications. Methodology. A variety of scientific articles from journals indexed through databases such as PubMed, Science Direct and Google Scholar over a period of 10 years, i.e., from 2013 to 2023, were used for the review process, where 41 publications of excellence were selected. Results. The management of oroantral communications (OAC) in general dentistry depends on the size of the defect. Defects smaller than 2 mm can be closed spontaneously, while larger ones require immediate surgical closure, ideally within 24-48 hours to avoid complications such as chronic sinusitis. The most recommended surgical technique for closures is the buccal advancement flap, due to its high success rate. The tooth most associated with COA is the upper first molar, and the prevalence is higher in men, although women are more prone to develop complications. Conclusion. After analyzing the information, it was concluded that the management of oroantral communication is based on an accurate and effective diagnosis during the general consultation, supported by clinical maneuvers recommended by the literature and diagnostic tests such as CT, thus avoiding major complications that make it difficult to approach in the general dental setting. General area of study: Dentistry. Specific area of study: Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. Type of study: Original articles.