Toothbrushing barriers for people with developmental disabilities: a pilot study.

Purpose: The aims of this study were: (1) to determine which step in tooth brushing is most difficult for individuals with developmental disabilities and (2) to determine if oral hygiene instruction improves technique.

Material And Methods: Once per week for 6 weeks, disclosing solution was applied to the teeth of 14 subjects who were observed individually in their tooth brushing technique. Fourteen distinct steps were measured on a 4-point Likert scale.

What is in a name? Oral and maxillofacial surgeon versus oral surgeon.

Purpose: In 1975, the American Society of Oral Surgeons officially changed its name to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. This change was intended to address the specialty's expanding surgical scope. However, today, many health care professionals continue to use the term oral surgeon.