A novel removable appliance for canine retraction: a case report.

This case report outlines the use of a modified Leighton's retractor as a method for canine retraction in a patient with severe hypodontia, a history of aggressive periodontitis with tooth loss and idiopathic root resorption affecting multiple teeth. Treatment involved an upper removable appliance in combination with a lower sectional fixed appliance with the aim of improving aesthetics and function for the patient, whilst balancing the need to minimise treatment duration and modify treatment mechanics to reduce the orthodontic risks.

Eating disorders and the orthodontist: Diagnosis, considerations and referral.

BACKGROUND: Eating disorders are relatively common mental health disorders in Western European and North American populations. The peak incidence occurs within the adolescent years, which correlates with the largest orthodontic patient population. The morbidity associated with these psychological conditions is significant, and has a direct impact upon patient well-being, orthodontic outcomes and the success of treatment. Therefore, it is of relevance to the orthodontist to be aware of potential presenting features of these conditions, when and where to seek advice, and how such disorders may impact upon orthodontic outcomes. METHODS: Articles published on PUBMED and MEDLINE relevant to orthodontics and eating disorders were reviewed. Key information was extracted, and the relevant evidence for the orthodontist summarised. RESULTS: Eating disorders may present to the orthodontist in specialist or hospital practice, either undiagnosed or as a co-morbidity. Orthodontists may benefit from an appreciation of these potential diagnoses, the orthodontic implications and to have the confidence to refer their patients to the necessary services. LIMITATIONS: There is little existing research in this area. CONCLUSIONS: These conditions have a significant impact on patient morbidity and mortality. This cohort of patients is not suitable for orthodontic treatment while their disease is active. The impact of a developing eating disorder can adversely affect orthodontic treatment.

Tooth loss as a result of a bonded retainer: a case report.

To reduce the risk of unwanted post-treatment changes following orthodontic treatment, use of bonded retainers is gaining popularity. Despite their efficacy and popularity with patients, it has been widely reported that there are significant risks with bonded retainers if they are not maintained and monitored. This case report demonstrates how unwanted tooth movement caused by a bonded retainer can lead to catastrophic failure and ultimately, tooth loss. The importance of active and regular monitoring of bonded retainers is highlighted and recommendations are made to the wider dental community on how to monitor such retainers in clinical practice.

The importance of the Basic Periodontal Examination for paediatric orthodontic patients.

Periodontal disease is considered to increase in prevalence around adolescence, owing to pubertal hormonal changes, early presentation in at-risk individuals and the challenges in maintaining patient motivation at this age. Adolescence provides the ideal stage of dental development for orthodontic assessment. Active periodontal disease can increase tooth mobility during orthodontic treatment. Therefore, it is essential that children and adolescents have appropriate and timely periodontal screening before commencing orthodontic treatment. The British Society of Periodontology and the British Society of Paediatric Dentistry recommend a modified Basic Periodontal Examination (BPE) assessing index teeth for paediatric patients.This paper will summarise the recommended paediatric periodontal assessment and review a case which highlights the need for routine periodontal examination of orthodontic patients, by both general dental practitioners and orthodontists, to identify patients at risk for periodontal disease. The modified BPE for this younger cohort is simple and allows for rapid screening of periodontal disease. Where it is needed, further detailed examination and treatment can then be initiated to prevent exacerbation of an existing problem.