Anterior Ridge Extension Using Modified Kazanjian Technique in Mandible- A Clinical Study.

INTRODUCTION: Good alveolar ridge is a prerequisite for successful conventional/ implant supported partial/complete denture. Extensively resorbed ridges with shallow vestibule and high insertion of muscles in to the ridge crest, leads to failure of prosthesis. Success of prosthesis depends on surgical repositioning of mucosa and muscle insertions, which increases the depth of vestibule and denture flange area for retention. So, the study was planned to provide good attached gingiva with adequate vestibular depth using Modified Kazanjian Vestibuloplasty (MKV). AIM: To evaluate efficacy of MKV technique for increasing vestibular depth in anterior mandible so that successful prosthesis can be delivered. Efficacy of the technique was evaluated through operating time required, vestibular depth achieved, scarring or relapse and any postoperative complications associated with the healing. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Total of 10 patients were included in the study, who had minimum 20mm of bone height and less than 5mm of vestibular depth for MKV procedure. The results were tabulated and statistical analysis was carried out to assess vestibular depth achieved i.e. from crest of the ridge to junction of attached mucosa both pre and postoperatively. The study results were compared with existing literature. RESULTS: Healing of raw surface was uneventful with satisfactory achievement of vestibular depth. The average gain in vestibular depth was 11 mm. The patients had good satisfaction index for prosthesis. CONCLUSION: Even in the era of implant prosthesis Modified Kazanjian technique is worth to practice to achieve good results and overcorrection is not required as that of standard Kazanjian technique. It provides adequate attached gingiva for successful prosthesis. Extension of vestibular depth enables fabrication of better denture flange with improved oral hygiene. This technique does not require hospitalization and additional surgery for grafts.

Ergonomics and musculoskeletal disorder: as an occupational hazard in dentistry.

OBJECTIVE: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are commonly experienced in dentistry. The objective of this study is to determine the prevalence of ergonomics and MSDs among dental professionals. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 170 dentists of different specialties. The questionnaire gathered information regarding demographic details, MSDs, work duration, working status, awareness of ergonomics, etc. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 15.0. Student's t-test and analysis of variance (ANOVA) test was used for comparison in mean scores. Stepwise multiple linear regression analysis was used to assess the independent variables that significantly influenced the variance in the dependent variable (pain). RESULTS: It was found that 73.9% of the participants reported musculoskeletal pain and most common painful sites were neck and back. More than half of the participants, i.e. 232 (59.3%) were aware of correct ergonomic posture regarding dental. Almost percentage of pain increased significantly with increase in age and working time. Among all specialties, prosthodontics were found to have more prevalence of MSDs. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The appearance of musculoskeletal symptoms among dental professionals was quite common. It suggested that ergonomics should be covered in the educational system to reduce risks to dental practitioners.