Optimising volumetric arc radiotherapy for dental rehabilitation in oropharynx cancer - A retrospective dosimetry review and feasibility planning study.

Purpose: To assess the dosimetry to dentally relevant substructures within the mandible/maxilla, establish the predictors of increased mean anterior mandible dose and assess the feasibility of rationale optimisation of dose to the anterior mandible (AM) volume to aid reconstructive dental surgery planning, where the AM is a critical structure.

Materials And Methods: In a cohort of radically treated oropharynx cancer patients we conducted a retrospective dosimetry analysis of mandible/maxilla volumes, created using a published atlas. Comparisons of mean AM dose and clinical parameters between groups were tested using Wilcoxon rank-sum and Kruskal-Wallis tests.

Long and short term management of implant-supported mandibular overdentures.

Unlabelled: Common problems with the long term clinical use of implant-supported mandibular overdentures (ISMDs) include fractures of dentures, bars and clips, and reactivation of clips. Many general dental practitioners (GDPs) are reticent to be involved in the maintenance of ISMDs, especially if they have not had any further training or are unfamiliar with implant components and systems. This article highlights the need for the training of GDPs in maintenance and management of ISMDs as an increasing number of edentulous patients are being provided with ISMDs, resulting in an increasing need for the maintenance of the prosthesis in the primary care setting at a possible cost to the patient.

Sectional dentures revisited.

Unlabelled: Sectional dentures are constructed in separate parts which join together intra-orally to create a single prosthesis. They are used to exploit undercuts around teeth, hard and soft tissues which require more than one path of insertion, and are usually of split pin or locking bolts design. By using two case studies, we aim to illustrate the provision of sectional dentures and to which situations their uses are best suited.

Management of periodontal disease in general dental practice.

Unlabelled: This paper reviews the important parameters deemed useful in the diagnosis and management of periodontal disease in general dental practice. We aim to highlight the importance of these when making a diagnosis and the necessary treatment undertaken in general dental practice before considering referral to specialist services. We also provide guidelines to assist the referral of patients for periodontal treatment in specialist care settings.

Principles of crown lengthening surgery.

Unlabelled: Crown lengthening is an invaluable tool for the restorative dentist in the management of short clinical crown heights. This procedure, as an adjunct to a holistic restorative treatment plan, can produce predictable results, whilst ensuring good aesthetics and maintaining periodontal health. Crown lengthening procedures are invaluable where toothwear or lack of supragingival tooth substance would render full coverage restoration difficult.