Browsing by Author "Avci, Burcin"

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The Effect of Dental Occlusion on Masseter Muscle Thickness in Adolescents: an Ultrasonographic Evaluation
(Springer, 2025) Kaya, Sema; Avci, Burcin
Objectives This study aimed to investigate the relationship between masseter muscle thickness and variables such as age, gender, dental occlusion, and parafunctional habits in adolescents aged 11-15 years using ultrasonographic measurements. Methods A total of 168 adolescents aged 11-15 years who were referred to the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology at Van Yuzuncu Yil University for routine dental examinations participated in this cross-sectional study. Data on parafunctional habits, age, height, and weight were collected. Dental occlusion and tooth loss were documented during clinical examinations. Masseter muscle thickness was measured bilaterally at rest and during contraction using ultrasonography. Statistical analyses included Kolmogorov-Smirnov, Wilcoxon, and Mann-Whitney U tests, with a significance level of p < 0.05. Results No significant differences in masseter muscle thickness were observed between genders, either at rest or during contraction (p > 0.05). Similarly, muscle thickness did not significantly differ according to dental occlusion or parafunctional habits such as mouth breathing and swallowing (p > 0.05). However, a positive correlation was found between the number of premolar and molar teeth and masseter muscle thickness on the left side during contraction (p = 0.006, r = 0.213). Conclusion Dental occlusion and parafunctional habits appear to have minimal impact on masseter muscle thickness in adolescents. Ultrasonography provides a reliable and non-invasive method for assessing masseter muscle thickness, supporting its utility in clinical practice.
Impact of Mesiodens on Transverse Jaw Dimension and Nasal Septum Deviation in Pediatric Patients: A Retrospective CBCT Study
(BMC, 2025) Avci, Burcin; Kaya, Sema
BackgroundMesiodens is the most prevalent type of supernumerary tooth and frequently interferes with the eruption of maxillary incisors. While its dental implications are well described, its potential impact on maxillofacial structures-such as nasal septum deviation (NSD) and transverse skeletal development-has not been thoroughly investigated. This study aimed to evaluate these effects in pediatric patients using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). MethodsA total of 102 pediatric patients with mesiodens and 102 age- and sex-matched controls were retrospectively evaluated. Maxillofacial parameters, including nasal base width, maxillary and mandibular transverse widths, and the presence of NSD, were assessed using CBCT. Statistical analyses involved independent t-tests, chi-square tests, and one-way ANOVA with post hoc comparisons (p < .05). ResultsThe presence of mesiodens was significantly associated with a narrower nasal base width (p < .001) and a higher prevalence of NSD (p = .009). No significant differences were observed between groups regarding maxillary (p = .260) or mandibular width (p = .078). ConclusionsThese findings suggest that mesiodens may influence not only dental eruption but also broader craniofacial development. Early detection and comprehensive radiographic evaluation may help mitigate potential maxillofacial complications associated with this anomaly.
Parental Perceptions of Ultrasonography in Pediatric Dental Diagnostics: a Cross-Sectional Study
(Bmc, 2025) Avci, Burcin; Kaya, Sema
Background The use of ultrasonography in pediatric dentistry has gained attention due to its safety, diagnostic versatility, and ability to minimize radiation exposure in children. This study aimed to evaluate parents' knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions regarding the use of ultrasonographic imaging in pediatric dentistry. Methods This cross-sectional study included the parents of 347 children aged 1 to 13 years who attended the pediatric dentistry clinic of a public dental school in Van, eastern Turkey. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a 27-item questionnaire covering parents' demographic characteristics, knowledge, attitudes, and concerns about ultrasonography. Chi-square and correlation analyses were used to evaluate the relationships between variables. Results Parents' knowledge and attitudes varied significantly by educational level and gender. Those with higher education levels demonstrated greater awareness and positive attitudes toward ultrasonography in dentistry. Female parents showed a greater preference than male parents for using ultrasonography in their children's dental treatment. Correlation analyses revealed strong positive associations among knowledge, attitudes, perceived benefits, and health literacy scores (r = 0.764-0.923, p < 0.001). Conclusions Although parents generally held positive attitudes toward ultrasonography in pediatric dentistry, their level of knowledge was limited. Educational level and gender significantly influenced parental knowledge and health literacy. These findings highlight the need for targeted educational interventions to support informed participation in dental diagnostics.