Evidence or else: Concerning trends and the legal risks of unsubstantiated orthodontic-surgical practices.

BACKGROUND: Over the past decade, orthodontics has advanced markedly with digital methods, cutting-edge biomechanics, and 3-dimensional diagnostics. However, the rapid adoption of these innovations without rigorous evaluation of their evidential support has led to new unsubstantiated orthodontic-surgical indications. METHODS: This article explores emerging orthodontic practices, focusing on the interpretation of orthodontic principles and the reliance on imaging-based diagnoses. RESULTS: Strict adherence to mechanistic orthodontic principles and reliance on imaging findings can result in overzealous treatment protocols. It also emphasizes the state of knowledge regarding temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) and the lack of consensus and evidence-based guidelines. CONCLUSIONS: There is an urgent need for the profession to integrate TMD knowledge, adopt evidence-based practices, and critically evaluate new methods before implementation. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: Orthodontists should move away from outdated mechanistic beliefs and integrate clinical knowledge from TMD research into their practices. Increased awareness and potential legal repercussions may drive a necessary reevaluation and stronger adherence to evidence-based methods.

Bridging semantics and medical ontology in the definition of bruxism: An argument for a holistic definition.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this commentary is to advocate for a holistic, ontology-based definition of bruxism. The intention is to synthesise the best aspects of current definitions into a structured ontological model, thereby refining and enhancing a comprehensive understanding of the full spectrum of bruxism. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The commentary elaborates on the process of integrating these insights into a hierarchical ontology that aligns with ontological principles. SETTINGS AND SAMPLE POPULATION: Not directly applicable as this is a commentary. RESULTS/CONCLUSION: The proposed ontology-based definition of bruxism aims to clarify communication within the medical community and advance research by enabling a comprehensive ontology-based classification of bruxism. By aligning with ontological principles, this approach aspires to act as a catalyst for further research, discussion and consensus in the field.

Tardive Oromandibular Dystonia Induced by Trazodone: A Clinical Case and Management from the Perspective of the Dental Specialist.

BACKGROUND: Tardive Oromandibular Dystonia is an iatrogenic drug-induced movement form of extrapyramidal symptoms associated primarily with chronic consumption of dopamine receptor blocking agents. Tardive symptoms attributable to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors antidepressants are far less prevalent. CLINICAL CASE: The authors will present a clinical case and management, from the dental specialist perspective, of a 55-year-old female patient who developed tardive oromandibular dystonia induced by Trazodone prescribed for sleep insomnia. CONCLUSIONS: Trazodone-induced oromandibular dystonia is extremely rare. Early identification and assessment of tardive symptoms are imperative for successful treatment. Trazodone should be prescribed with caution in patients taking other medications with the potential to cause tardive syndromes.