Exploring the Antimicrobial Mechanisms and Efficacy of Green-synthesized Silver-Zinc Oxide Nanocomposite Oral Rinse against Key Oral Pathogens Najiya VP, Remmiya Mary Varghese World Journal of Dentistry, 2026 have been previously used to synthesize silver nanoparticles with notable antibacterial properties. [11][12]2][13][14] Similarly, green-synthesized ZnO nanoparticles demonstrate significant antimicrobial activity, supporting their application in dental formulations. IntroductIonOral infections such as dental caries, gingivitis, and candidiasis arise due to microbial imbalance in the oral cavity.Despite the widespread use of antimicrobial oral rinses, the prevalence of such infections remains high. 1,2Although standard formulations, particularly those containing alcohol and synthetic agents such as chlorhexidine, are effective, they may cause adverse effects such as taste alteration, mucosal irritation, xerostomia, and disruption of beneficial oral microflora.In addition, increasing antibiotic resistance reduces the efficacy of many conventional antimicrobial agents, creating a demand for safer, biocompatible alternatives. 3,4anotechnology offers promising solutions in dentistry, enabling the development of advanced antimicrobial materials. 5Silver (Ag) and zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles are well documented for their potent, broad-spectrum antimicrobial action. [6][7]7][8] However, chemical synthesis of nanoparticles often involves hazardous reagents and energy-intensive processes.Green synthesis utilizes plant-derived biomolecules as reducing and stabilizing agents, offering an environmentally friendly route for nanoparticle production. 9,10Ocimum species
Green Synthesis, Antimicrobial Efficiency, and Cytotoxic Effects of Silver–Zinc Oxide Nanocomposites: An In Vitro Study Amritha Nehru, Remmiya Mary Varghese World Journal of Dentistry, 2026 Original researchwith increasing interest in eco-friendly synthesis methods to ensure sustainable application in oral healthcare. [6][7]][8][9][10] Incorporation of these nanoparticles into mouthwashes, toothpaste, and bioactive dental materials can provide sustained protection against cariogenic and periodontopathic microbes.Moreover, nanodelivery enables IntroductIonThe global increase in antibiotic-resistant pathogens has substantially undermined the effectiveness of conventional antimicrobial treatments in dentistry.Diseases such as dental caries, periodontitis, and endodontic infections continue to pose serious public health challenges, with microorganisms such as Streptococcus mutans, Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and Candida albicans playing key roles. 1,2hese microbes are capable of developing robust biofilms and demonstrating elevated resistance to commonly used antibiotics, highlighting the critical need for innovative antimicrobial strategies.Nanotechnology offers a promising solution, with metal-based nanoparticles demonstrating broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity.Among these, silver (Ag) and zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles have been extensively studied for their potent bactericidal and fungicidal properties.Ag nanoparticles disrupt microbial cell membranes and interfere with DNA replication, while ZnO nanoparticles generate reactive oxygen species and release Zn 2+ ions, both of which contribute to microbial inactivation, and combining these two materials into an Ag-ZnO nanocomposite can yield synergistic effects, enhancing antimicrobial efficacy and reducing the likelihood of resistance development. [3][4]4][5] As resistance to conventional treatments grows, nanotechnology provides a promising alternative,
Comparison of Rate of Maxillary Canine Retraction between Synergy and Self-ligating Brackets: A Split-mouth Clinical Trial Shreya Kishore, Remmiya Mary Varghese, Vanita Barai, Saravana Dinesh, Lincy Rachel Thomas, Meher Kiranmayi Gaddam World Journal of Dentistry, 2026 Background: Orthodontic treatment efficiency depends on appliance design and biomechanics.While self-ligating brackets reduce friction, Synergy brackets incorporate a unique rounded arch slot to minimize resistance.This study compares the rate of maxillary canine retraction using Synergy and self-ligating brackets.Aim: To evaluate the rate of maxillary canine retraction and anchorage loss in Synergy brackets compared to self-ligating brackets using bodily mechanics.Materials and methods: A prospective, randomized, split-mouth clinical trial was conducted on 16 patients requiring first premolar extractions.The left and right quadrants of each maxillary arch were randomly assigned Synergy and self-ligating brackets.Retraction was performed using 0.019 0.025 inch stainless steel wire and NiTi closed-coil springs applying 150 gm force.Measurements were taken at 0, 4, 8, 12, and 16 weeks using digital Vernier calipers.The rate of canine retraction and anchorage loss was statistically analyzed.Results: The Synergy bracket group exhibited a significantly higher retraction rate (1.933 0.645 mm) compared to the self-ligating group (1.337 0.624 mm) (p < 0.05).Anchorage loss was comparable between both groups (Synergy: 0.323 0.272 mm; self-ligating: 0.317 0.205 mm).Conclusion: Synergy brackets demonstrated a significantly higher rate of canine retraction than self-ligating brackets without significant anchorage loss.These findings suggest that Synergy brackets may offer improved efficiency in orthodontic space closure compared to selfligating brackets.Further research with larger sample sizes and long-term follow-ups is recommended.
Virtual screening of potential inhibitors against catechol‑o‑methyltransferase (COMT) for temporomandibular joint disorders Siddhant Thorat, K. S Nagachandran, Remmiya M. Varghese, Lincy R. Thomas Journal of Orthodontic Science, 2025 BACKGROUND: Temporomandibular joint pain dysfunction syndrome (TMJPDS) is a musculoligamentous condition causing dull, aching pain in the masticatory muscles, influenced by jaw movement. Computer-aided drug design (CADD) uses computational methods to support modern drug discovery. Molecular docking, a core CADD technique, predicts drug-target interactions, aiding in stable, specific, and effective drug design. AIM: The aim of this study was to use the docking technique for COMT inhibitors. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Four COMT inhibitors were selected from the literature, and their compound structures were obtained from the Zinc15 database. The COMT protein was designated as the target and was refined utilizing the RCSB Protein Data Bank. After pharmacophore modeling, 20 novel compounds were found, and SwissDock was used to dock them with the target protein. We compared the binding energies of the newly discovered compounds to those of the previously published molecules with the target. RESULTS: The findings revealed that out of the 20 molecules, ZINC101880339 and ZINC100287288 demonstrated the highest binding energy and showcased superior characteristics compared to the remaining molecules. CONCLUSION: The study concluded that ZINC101880339 and ZINC100287288 demonstrated higher binding affinity than known COMT inhibitors. Consequently, these two molecules hold promise as potential leads for treating TMJPDS and may be utilized in targeted drug therapy. Categories: Dentistry, TMJ, Computational Screening
Comparative assessment of shear bond strength and adhesive remnant scores of orthodontic adhesive containing copper-substituted hydroxyapatite nanoparticles with conventional orthodontic adhesive: An in vitro study Kavitha Ramsundar, Remmiya Mary Varghese, Nivethigaa Balakrishnan, Aravind Kumar Subramanian Journal of Orthodontic Science, 2025 BACKGROUND: An ideal orthodontic adhesive should provide a bond strong enough to withstand the forces of orthodontic treatment and mastication without dislodging, while also being safe enough to prevent surface damage debonding. Shear bond strength (SBS) is a critical factor that determines the quality of bonding in orthodontics. Nanoparticle-enhanced adhesives have been reported to offer additional benefits such as antimicrobial properties and remineralization effects, making them worth investigating for their shear bond characteristics. Aim: This in vitro study aimed to evaluate and compare the SBS and Adhesive Remnant Index (ARI) scores of orthodontic adhesives containing copper-substituted hydroxyapatite (Cu-HA) nanoparticles with a conventional orthodontic adhesive. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-eight extracted human premolar teeth were randomly divided into two groups of 14. In Group 1, orthodontic brackets were bonded using Enlight adhesive mixed with Cu-HA nanoparticles, while Group 2 used conventional Enlight adhesive. SBS was measured using a Universal Testing Machine, and the debonded samples were evaluated for ARI scores under scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Statistical analyses were performed using independent t-tests for SBS comparison and Mann-Whitney U tests for ARI score differences. A P value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: The group using Enlight adhesive with Cu nanoparticles exhibited a significantly higher mean SBS (9.03 ± 6.17 MPa) compared to the conventional adhesive group (5.51 ± 2.099 MPa, P = 0.003). The median ARI score for the Cu-HA nanoparticle group was 3, while the conventional group had a median ARI score of 2 (P = 0.022). Both SBS and ARI scores were significantly higher in the Cu-HA nanoparticle group. CONCLUSION: Copper-substituted hydroxyapatite nanoparticles enhance bond strength and adhesive retention, making them a promising alternative to conventional adhesives in orthodontics. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The findings indicate that adhesives containing Cu-HA nanoparticles, especially when combined with the Enlight adhesive, offer superior bond strength and adhesive retention compared to conventional adhesives. This could lead to improved clinical outcomes in orthodontic bonding, potentially reducing bracket failure rates and enhancing treatment efficiency.
Nanoparticle-based oral rinse in prevention of white spot lesions in orthodontic treatment: A systematic review Shifo Savio, Remmiya Mary Varghese, Aravind Kumar Subramanian, Rajeshkumar Shanmugam Journal of Orthodontic Science, 2025 BACKGROUND AND AIM: White spot lesions (WSLs) are the most common lesions in orthodontic treatment. Preventing WSLs during and after orthodontic treatment is a major challenge in modern dentistry. Introducing nanotechnology-based materials with antimicrobial, anticariogenic, and remineralizing potential is the emerging trend to prevent WSL. This systematic review was conducted to find the effectiveness of nanoparticle-based oral rinses in preventing WSL in orthodontic treatments. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The systematic review included human trials published in English between January 2010 and September 2024. The search strategy involved exploring electronic databases such as PubMed Central, SCOPUS, Web of Science, and Cochrane. The reviewers individually assessed the risk of bias in the included studies using the recommended assessment of the risk of bias approach in the included studies. RESULTS: One study that met the inclusion criteria was included in this systematic review. The overall incidence of WSLs per tooth after six months was 9.52% for the nanosilver (NS) mouthwash, compared to 24.4% for both the fluoride and chlorhexidine (CHX) mouthwashes. The right maxillary lateral incisor had the highest incidence (38.09%). Gingival margins of maxillary teeth had a higher incidence of WSLs compared to mandibular teeth, as the formation of biofilm is high in maxillary teeth. CONCLUSION: Nanosilver mouthwash reduces the incidence of WSLs by over 80% compared to chlorhexidine and fluoride mouthwash in fixed orthodontic treatment. Furthermore, better-conducted trials with various nanoparticle-based mouthwashes are necessary for their clinical use in orthodontic patients.
Exploring Therapeutic Insights: Computational Docking Analysis of 5HTR2A Protein Structure involved in Temporomandibular Joint Disorders Shravani VP, Nagachandran KS, Remmiya Mary Varghese, Sivakamavalli J International Journal of Orthodontic Rehabilitation, 2025 INTRODUCTION: Dysregulated HTR2A receptor function and serotonin signaling pathways can contribute to TMJ disorders, underscoring the significance of comprehending structural variations in the HTR2A gene protein for pioneering therapeutic strategies. This study aims to explore the molecular interactions between HTR2A receptor and potential therapeutic ligands via computational docking, aiming to pinpoint innovative targets for intervening pain in TMJ disorders. METHODS: A virtual screening of 100 candidate compounds was performed based on drug-likeness, molecular docking scores, and ADMET profiles. The 3D structure of the HTR2A receptor was retrieved (PDB ID: 6A94), and docking simulations were conducted using AutoDock Vina and BIOVIA Discovery Studio. Pharmacophore models were generated using LigandScout, and key ligands were analyzed using PyRx, PyMOL, and pkCSM tools. RESULTS: The PyRx molecular docking analysis identified two novel compounds, 2,5-Dimethoxy-4-iodoamphetamine and 2,5-dimethoxy-4-methylamphetamine, displaying robust binding affinities with the HTR2A gene in comparison to conventional compounds. In addition, these newly identified compounds satisfied stringent pharmaceutical criteria, meeting criteria such as Lipinski's Rule, Ghose's Rule, Veber's Rule, Egan's Rule, and Muegge's Rule, suggesting their potential as promising therapeutic options for treating TMJ disorders. CONCLUSION: The study highlights the strong binding affinity between the 5HTR2A gene and novel compounds, suggesting their potential as effective therapeutic agents for TMJ disorders, with promising pharmacokinetic profiles and implications for advancing computational drug discovery in medical research.
Assessment of condylar and glenoid fossa dimension in various sagittal skeletal malocclusions Ashish Ravi Kallur, Remmiya Mary Varghese Journal of Orthodontic Science, 2025 INTRODUCTION: Jaw mobility and oral function depend on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), with the dimensions of the mandibular condyle and glenoid fossa being important for understanding dental and orthodontic conditions. Additionally, advanced imaging, like cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), has improved the study of condylar morphology, aiding diagnosis and treatment planning. AIM: To perform morphometric analysis of the TMJs using CBCT in all three dimensions in various skeletal malocclusions. MATERIALS AND METHODS: CBCT images of 84 patients were collected for the study. FACAD (ILEXIS AB, Linköping, Sweden) software was used to divide the patients into Class I, II, and III skeletal malocclusions. Dolphin software was used to measure the width, length, and height of condyles and glenoid fossa of the patients from the CBCT images. The Shapiro–Wilk test was used to check normality. ANOVA test was performed to assess the statistical significance of the results between the 3 groups. RESULTS: The sample consisted of 30 patients with class I skeletal relation, 34 patients with class II relation, and 20 patients with class III relation. In class I relation, the average condylar height is found to be 16.32 mm ± 2.16 mm, width is 16.47 mm ± 2.61 mm, and length 7.65 mm ± 1.5 mm. The average dimensions of the glenoid fossa in class I skeletal relation were measured to be 19.93 mm ± 2.64 mm in width, 13.93 mm ± 1.45 mm in length, and 6.4 mm ± 1.49 mm in height. CONCLUSION: A statistically significant difference was noted in the condylar width and condylar height among the various skeletal malocclusions. The morphological parameters assessed in this study require more investigation to fully understand the mechanisms underlying them and investigate the consequences for orthodontic treatment and TMJ health.
Unlocking ADAMTS-5: In Silico insights into TMJ proteomics and docking dynamics Anjusha Divakar, Nagachandran Kandasamy, Remmiya Mary Varghese, Sivakamavalli Jeyachandran, Lincy Rachel Thomas Journal of Orthodontic Science, 2025 BACKGROUND: Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder refers to a condition involving dysfunction or pain in the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement. It can affect one or both sides of the jaw and can cause various symptoms, including Jaw pain or tenderness; Difficulty or discomfort when chewing; Clicking, popping, or grating sounds in the jaw joint; Jaw locking or limited movement; Earache or pain around the ear; Headaches or migraines; Neck and shoulder pain; Swelling on the side of the face. TMJ disorder can have various causes, including injury to the jaw joint, teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism), arthritis, stress, misalignment of the jaw or teeth, and excessive gum chewing. Computer-aided drug design (CADD) comprises a range of theoretical and computational strategies employed in contemporary drug discovery. Molecular docking stands out as a key technique within CADD, aiding in the comprehension of drug-molecule interactions for rational drug design, mechanistic investigations, and the creation of stable complexes with heightened specificity and potential effectiveness. Through the docking process, valuable information regarding binding energy, free energy, and predictions of complex stability is obtained, offering significant insights into drug development endeavors. AIM: The objective of this research was to employ docking methodology to identify potential ADAMTS-5 protein for TMJ. Four ADAMTS-5 protein inhibitors previously reported in the literature were selected, and their compound structures were obtained from the Zinc15 database. The ADAMTS-5 protein was designated as the target and optimized utilizing the RCSB Protein Data Bank. Following pharmacophore modeling, 20 novel compounds were identified, and SwissDock was utilized to dock these compounds with the target protein. A comparison was made between the binding energies of the newly discovered compounds and those of previously published molecules with the target. RESULTS: The results indicated that among the 20 ZINC1846088 and ZINC33606904 exhibited the highest binding energy and displayed superior properties compared to the other molecules. CONCLUSION: The study concluded that ZINC1846088 and ZINC33606904 exhibited greater binding affinity than the reported inhibitors of ADAMTS-5 protein. Therefore, these two molecules can be used as a potential and promising lead for the treatment of TMJ and could be employed in targeted drug therapy. CATEGORIES: Dentistry, TMJ.
Comparative Zebrafish Embryonic Toxicology Assessment of Silver and Zinc Oxide Nanoparticle-Based Oral Rinse Versus Commercial Oral Rinse Journal of International Dental and Medical Research, 2025
A retrospective analysis of patients preference to clear aligner therapy over conventional orthodontic therapy International Journal of Dentistry and Oral Science, 2021
A retrospective study assessing the frequency of patient’s requiring tpa/lsa during orthodontic therapy-an institutional study International Journal of Dentistry and Oral Science, 2020
Prevalence of posterior alveolar bone dehiscence and fenestration in adults reporting for orthodontic treatment-a cbct study International Journal of Dentistry and Oral Science, 2020
