Distraction osteogenesis versus orthognathic surgery for the treatment of maxillary hypoplasia in cleft lip and palate patients: a systematic review.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the effectiveness of distraction osteogenesis to orthognathic surgery for the treatment of maxillary hypoplasia in individuals with cleft lip and palate. METHOD: A systematic review of prospective randomized, quasi-randomized or controlled clinical trials. MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL, CENTRAL, trial registers and grey literature were searched. Hand searching of five relevant journals was completed. Two reviewers independently completed inclusion assessment. Data extraction and risk of bias assessment were completed by a single reviewer and checked by a second reviewer. RESULTS: Five publications all reporting different outcomes of a single randomized controlled trial are included within the review. The quality of the evidence was low with a high risk of bias. Both surgical interventions produce significant soft tissue improvement. Horizontal relapse of the maxilla was statistically significantly greater following orthognathic surgery. There was no statistically significant difference in speech and velo-pharyngeal function between the interventions. Maxillary distraction initially lowered social self-esteem, but this improved with time resulting in higher satisfaction with life in the long term. CONCLUSIONS: The low quality of evidence included within the review means there is insufficient evidence to conclude whether there is a difference in effectiveness between maxillary distraction and osteotomy for the treatment of cleft-related maxillary hypoplasia. There is a need for further high-quality randomized controlled trials to allow conclusive recommendations to be made.

3D asymmetry of operated children with oral clefts.

OBJECTIVES: To explore three-dimensional (3D) facial asymmetry differences in operated children with oral clefts and to compare the results with a control group. SETTING AND SAMPLE POPULATION: The sample comprised one hundred and three 8- to 12-year-old children: 40 with unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP); 23 with unilateral cleft lip and alveolus (UCLA); 19 with bilateral cleft lip and palate (BCLP); 21 with cleft palate (CP) and 80 sex- and age-matched controls living in the North East of England. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 3D stereophotogrammetric facial scans were recorded for each participant at rest. Thirty-nine landmarks were recorded for each scan. The x, y and z coordinates for each landmark were extracted. Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests were conducted to identify 3D landmark asymmetry differences between the groups. RESULTS: Statistically significant differences were observed between all the groups. The UCLP and UCLA patients displayed the greatest asymmetry, followed by the BCLP group. The CP group was the least asymmetric among the cleft groups. Asymmetry was present to a lesser extent in the control group. CONCLUSIONS: Shape analysis indicates the possible differences in the aetiology and growth pattern of the CP group compared to UCLA or UCLP and BCLP groups.

3D facial morphometry in children with oral clefts.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to characterize three-dimensional (3D) facial morphological variation of children with cleft lip and palate compared to an age- and sex-matched control group. DESIGN: Cross-sectional, case-controlled observational morphometric study. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Subjects were 103 children aged 8 to 12 years old with cleft lip and palate-40 with unilateral cleft lip and palate, 23 with unilateral cleft lip and alveolus, 19 with bilateral cleft lip and palate, and 21 with isolated cleft palate (ICP)-and 80 sex- and age-matched control subjects. Subjects were scanned using 3D stereophotogrammetry. Thirty-nine landmarks were digitized for each scan, and the x, y, and z coordinates for each landmark were extracted. Linear and angular facial measurements were computed. Multivariate analysis of covariance was undertaken to detect significant differences in facial morphometry between the groups. RESULTS: Statistically significant differences (P < .05) were observed between all groups. The greatest morphometrical impact was seen in those groups where both lip and palate were affected and repaired; the group with ICP was the most similar to the control subjects. CONCLUSIONS: Significant differences were seen in 3D soft-tissue measurements, mainly in the nasolabial region, between the cleft groups where the lip is affected and the ICP and control groups.

Adhesives for fixed orthodontic bands.

BACKGROUND: Orthodontic treatment involves using fixed or removable appliances (dental braces) to correct the positions of teeth. It has been shown that the quality of treatment result obtained with fixed appliances is much better than with removable appliances. Fixed appliances are, therefore, favoured by most orthodontists for treatment. The success of a fixed orthodontic appliance depends on the metal attachments (brackets and bands) being attached securely to the teeth so that they do not become loose during treatment. Brackets are usually attached to the front and side teeth, whereas bands (metal rings that go round the teeth) are more commonly used on the back teeth (molars). A number of adhesives are available to attach bands to teeth and it is important to understand which group of adhesives bond most reliably, as well as reducing or preventing dental decay during the treatment period. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effectiveness of the adhesives used to attach bands to teeth during fixed appliance treatment, in terms of:(1) how often the bands come off during treatment; and(2) whether they protect the banded teeth against decay during fixed appliance treatment. SEARCH STRATEGY: Electronic databases were searched: the Cochrane Oral Health Group's Trials Register (29th January 2007), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (The Cochrane Library 2007, Issue 1), MEDLINE (1966 to 29th January 2007) and EMBASE (1980 to 29th January 2007). A search of the internet was also undertaken. There was no restriction with regard to publication status or language of publication. SELECTION CRITERIA: Randomised and controlled clinical trials (RCTs and CCTs) (including split-mouth studies) of adhesives used to attach orthodontic bands to molar teeth were selected. Patients with full arch fixed orthodontic appliance(s) who had bands attached to molars were included. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: All review authors were involved in study selection, validity assessment and data extraction without blinding to the authors, adhesives used or results obtained. All disagreements were resolved by discussion. MAIN RESULTS: Five RCTs and three CCTs were identified as meeting the review's inclusion criteria. All the included trials were of split-mouth design. Four trials compared chemically cured zinc phosphate and chemically cured glass ionomer; three trials compared chemically cured glass ionomer cement with light cured compomer; one trial compared chemically cured glass ionomer with a chemically cured glass phosphonate. Data analysis was often inappropriate within the studies meeting the inclusion criteria. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: There is insufficient high quality evidence with regard to the most effective adhesive for attaching orthodontic bands to molar teeth. Further RCTs are required.

Adhesives for fixed orthodontic bands.

BACKGROUND: Orthodontic treatment involves using fixed or removable appliances (dental braces) to correct the positions of teeth. It has been shown that the quality of treatment result obtained with fixed appliances is much better than with removable appliances. Fixed appliances are, therefore, favoured by most orthodontists for treatment. The success of a fixed orthodontic appliance depends on the metal attachments (brackets and bands) being attached securely to the teeth so that they do not become loose during treatment. Brackets are usually attached to the front and side teeth, whereas bands (metal rings that go round the teeth) are more commonly used on the back teeth (molars). A number of adhesives are available to attach bands to teeth and it is important to understand which group of adhesives bond most reliably, as well as reducing or preventing dental decay during the treatment period. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effectiveness of the adhesives used to attach bands to teeth during fixed appliance treatment, in terms of:(1) how often the bands come off during treatment; and(2) whether they protect the banded teeth against decay during fixed appliance treatment. SEARCH STRATEGY: Electronic databases were searched: the Cochrane Oral Health Group's Trials Register (July 2005), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (The Cochrane Library Issue 2, 2005), MEDLINE (1966 to July 2005) and EMBASE (1980 to July 2005). A search of the internet was also undertaken. There was no restriction with regard to publication status or language of publication. SELECTION CRITERIA: Randomised and controlled clinical trials (RCTs and CCTs) (including split-mouth studies) of adhesives used to attach orthodontic bands to molar teeth were selected. Patients with full arch fixed orthodontic appliance(s) who had bands attached to molars were included. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: All review authors were involved in study selection, validity assessment and data extraction without blinding to the authors, adhesives used or results obtained. All disagreements were resolved by discussion. MAIN RESULTS: Five RCTs and three CCTs were identified as meeting the review's inclusion criteria. All the included trials were of split-mouth design. Four trials compared chemically cured zinc phosphate and chemically cured glass ionomer; three trials compared chemically cured glass ionomer cement with light cured compomer; one trial compared chemically cured glass ionomer with a chemically cured glass phosphonate. Data analysis was often inappropriate within the studies meeting the inclusion criteria. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: There is insufficient high quality evidence with regard to the most effective adhesive for attaching orthodontic bands to molar teeth. Further RCTs are required.

Adhesives for fixed orthodontic brackets.

BACKGROUND: Bonding of orthodontic brackets to teeth is important to enable effective and efficient treatment with fixed appliances. The problem is bracket failure during treatment which increases operator chairside time and lengthens treatment time. A prolonged treatment is likely to increase the oral health risks of orthodontic treatment with fixed appliances one of which is irreversible enamel decalcification. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effectiveness of different orthodontic adhesives for bonding. SEARCH STRATEGY: Electronic databases: the Cochrane Oral Health Group's Trials Register, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE and EMBASE. Date of most recent searches: August 2002 (CENTRAL) (The Cochrane Library Issue 2, 2002). SELECTION CRITERIA: Trials were selected if they met the following criteria: randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and controlled clinical trials (CCTs) comparing two different adhesive groups. Participants were patients with fixed orthodontic appliances. The interventions were adhesives that bonded stainless steel brackets to all teeth except the molars. The primary outcome was debond or bracket failure. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Data were recorded on decalcification as a secondary outcome, if present. Information regarding methods, participants, interventions, outcome measures and results were extracted in duplicate by pairs of reviewers (Nicky Mandall (NM) and Rye Mattick (CRM); Declan Millett (DTM) and Joy Hickman (JH2)). Since the data were not presented in a form that was amenable to meta-analysis, the results of the review are presented in narrative form only. MAIN RESULTS: Three trials satisfied the inclusion criteria. A chemical cured composite was compared with a light cure composite (one trial), a conventional glass ionomer cement (one trial) and a polyacid-modified resin composite (compomer) (one trial). The quality of the trial reports was generally poor. REVIEWER'S CONCLUSIONS: It is difficult to draw any conclusions from this review, however, suggestions are made for methods of improving future research involving orthodontic adhesives.

Stomatology--an intriguing blend of traditional Chinese medicine and Western-style dentistry.

I have long been fascinated by the antiquity and mystique of Chinese medicine, but try as I might, I could find virtually nothing in print, nor trace anybody in Britain who professed to know much about dental treatment in modern China. I decided, therefore, to visit China and find out myself exactly what dentists do in the Peoples' Republic of China, and satisfy my professional curiosity about how their work might relate to traditional medical practices.

Undergraduate orthodontic teaching in the new millennium--the Newcastle model.

This paper identifies the main factors which have influenced the nature of the undergraduate orthodontic curriculum presently taught at Newcastle University. It also outlines the philosophy that underpins the teaching, states the professional aims of the tutors and spells out the clinical objectives set for the students.

Osteogenic distraction within the craniofacial complex.

Osteogenic distraction is a method of increasing bone length, and was developed by orthopaedic surgeons. It is now being used in the craniofacial region. This paper outlines some of the suggested uses: mandibular distraction can be used to correct hypoplasia and asymmetry in both children and adults; maxillary distraction can bring the midface forward, and holds potential for people with cleft lip and palate; augmentation of alveolar ridges and regeneration of mandibular tissue following tumour resection show considerable promise. The complex spatial dimensions of the craniofacial bones present considerable challenges for this developing technique.

Current products and practice section: religious, cultural, and ethical dilemmas in orthodontics.

There are potential religious, cultural and ethical dilemmas facing patients who are undergoing orthodontic treatment. Opinions were collected from religious and cultural leaders, as well as from non-religious groups who take an ethical standpoint on certain medical or dental treatment. Factors relating to ingredients in orthodontic products, timing of orthodontic appointments, and the effects of religious fasting are all discussed. It is important to recognize all patients' opinions and beliefs when planning and undertaking orthodontic treatment.

A comparative micro-topographic study of the buccal enamel of different tooth types.

The aim of this study was to perform an in vitro examination of the etch pattern achieved on the orthodontic bonding area (OBA) of different tooth types, and to compare the extent and definition of etch achieved. Six examples of each permanent human tooth type were studied. These were collected from adolescents. A standardized etch regime was employed on the OBA and the etch pattern examined under the scanning electron microscope. The degree of definition of etch achieved on every third enamel prism was evaluated. Results showed that the extent of etch achieved decreased toward the distal end of each arch and was significantly less on the first molars (covering <2% OBA) than on the incisors (covering >90% OBA). It was also noted that the degree of definition became poorer towards the distal end of the arches and was worst on the mandibular molars. It is suggested that the etched enamel morphology of different tooth types could affect composite resin bond strengths. Consequently, this feature could effect the clinical survival of orthodontic brackets and contribute to the higher failure rate of brackets on posterior teeth.

Ethical and scientific decision making in distraction osteogenesis.

OBJECTIVE: To propose a prospective registry for distraction osteogenesis research. RESULTS: The search strategy identified 82 reports, of which 11 were review articles, 17 were animal studies, 5 were theoretical models, and 49 were case reports/series. CONCLUSIONS: So far, the literature concerning distraction osteogenesis does not allow reliable choices to be made on the most appropriate form of distraction osteogenesis in different clinical decisions or whether it is superior to osteotomy or nontreatment. A prospective registry is proposed to hasten critical appraisal of distraction osteogenesis.

Mandibular advancement using an intra-oral osteogenic distraction technique: a report of three clinical cases.

Osteogenic distraction has been used for decades to lengthen limbs and now attention is focused upon its use within the craniofacial skeleton. This paper addresses distraction of the mandible. It is proposed that mandibular osteogenic distraction could be a possible adjunct to the orthodontic treatment of those adult patients with skeletal anomalies, who would benefit from combined orthodontic/orthognathic treatment. Three consecutive cases from one unit are presented, where adult patients with severe Class II division 1 malocclusions have undergone orthodontic treatment combined with mandibular osteogenic distraction, instead of conventional bilateral sagittal split osteotomies.

Smile aesthetics and malocclusion in UK teenage magazines assessed using the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN).

OBJECTIVE: There is a significant demand for orthodontic treatment within the UK from adolescent girls, a group known to be influenced by the media portrayal of body form and body image, which may extend to the presentation of malocclusions. This study examined the portrayal of malocclusion in a media type that targets teenage girls under 16 years of age. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A representative selection of 1 month's magazines targeting this group were investigated, and the frequency and severity of malocclusions displayed were assessed. Two calibrated examiners viewed all the smiles (on two occasions) using a modification of Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN) and assigned an Aesthetic Component Score to each smile. RESULTS: It was found that the aesthetic score is low (less than 7) for the majority of models (92.8%) indicating no need or a borderline need for treatment. Only 7.2% of models exhibited a definite need for treatment. CONCLUSION: It appears that the portrayal of malocclusion in teenage magazines does not reflect the general treatment need of the adolescent population.

The diagnostic value of routine intra-oral premaxillary radiographs in orthodontic assessment.

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to determine whether significant dental abnormalities are likely to be overlooked in the anterior region of the maxilla if, in the absence of any clinical indication for further views, the only radiograph used during an initial orthodontic assessment is a good-quality orthopantomogram (OPT). SAMPLE AND METHODS: Two orthodontists examined, retrospectively, the written and radiographic dental hospital records of 1169 consecutive, new, young patients who on their first visit to a dental teaching hospital underwent radiographic examination comprising an OPT and one or more supplementary radiographs of the anterior maxilla. RESULTS: In five cases (0.43%) significant findings would have been overlooked if the intra-oral views had not been taken. These included periapical lesions and supernumerary teeth, but in three of the cases the image quality of the OPT was poor. CONCLUSIONS: If the OPT is not routinely supplemented by intra-oral views, the chances of completely missing significant findings in the anterior maxilla are small, provided a thorough history and clinical examination have been completed and the image quality of the OPT is good.

Fluoride-releasing elastomeric modules reduce decalcification: a randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether fluoride releasing elastomeric modules reduced the incidence of decalcification around orthodontic brackets during a complete course of orthodontic treatment. DESIGN: A randomised controlled, split mouth design. SETTING: The study was carried out in the orthodontic department of Newcastle-upon-Tyne Dental Hospital, UK. SUBJECT AND METHODS: 21 consecutive patients (126 teeth) undergoing fixed appliance therapy were studied. A split mouth technique was adopted to examine the upper labial segment, where one side (left or right) was randomly assigned to the experimental group, and the opposite side served as a control throughout their course of orthodontic treatment. INTERVENTIONS: The control teeth were ligated to the archwire using conventional modules. The experimental teeth were ligated to the archwire using Fluoride releasing elastomeric modules. OUTCOME MEASURES: Standardised photographs were taken of the upper labial segment before and after completion of orthodontic treatment, and the degree of decalcification assessed in each tooth quadrant, using a modification of the Enamel Defect Score. RESULTS: Decalcification was found to occur in both treatment groups, though to a significantly greater degree on the control side (p = 0.002). The fluoride module side showed significantly fewer serious decalcified lesions than the control (p = 0.013). No patients withdrew from the study. CONCLUSIONS: It would appear that the use of fluoride releasing elastomeric modules reduces the degree of decalcification experienced during orthodontic treatment.

Orthodontic adhesives: a systematic review.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate which orthodontic adhesives (a). bond orthodontic brackets to teeth more reliably and (b). are more effective at preventing decalcification. DATA SOURCES: The search strategy for the literature review was carried out according to the standard Cochrane systematic review methodology. The Cochrane Clinical Trials Register and the Cochrane Oral Health Group Specialized Register were searched for randomized clinical trials and controlled clinical trials. All volumes that had not already been assessed by the Oral Health Group in the European Journal of Orthodontics, American Journal of Orthodontics, Journals of Orthodontics, and Angle Orthodontist were hand-searched. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied when considering the studies to be included in this review. DATA SELECTION: The primary outcome measure was the failure of the orthodontic adhesive. A secondary outcome of decalcification occurring around the orthodontic bracket was also recorded, if data were available. DATA EXTRACTION: Two randomized clinical trials and one controlled clinical trial were identified that fulfilled all the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The trials compared: (a). light- and chemically-cured composite; (b). chemically-cured composite and conventional glass ionomer cement; and (c). chemically-cured composite and light-cured compomer. DATA SYNTHESIS: Each paper was quality assessed by two people independently. A qualitative analysis of the trials in the review is presented. The data presentation, for the majority of the trials, precluded the use of suggested Cochrane Health Group statistical analysis. CONCLUSIONS: It is difficult to draw any conclusions from this review; however, suggestions are made for methods of improving future research involving orthodontic adhesives.