Factors delaying the diagnosis of oral and oropharyngeal carcinomas.

Most squamous cell carcinomas of the oral cavity and oropharynx are not diagnosed until they have attained at least the T2 stage (greater than 2.0 cm). This study identifies factors which may contribute to the delayed diagnosis of these tumors, despite the fact that they frequently arise at sites readily accessible to examination.

Absorbed radiation doses in transcranial temporomandibular joint radiography.

Lateral transcranial radiographs are commonly used to evaluate TMJ morphology and function. This study evaluated the use of four TMJ positioners in controlling the amount of radiation absorbed at predetermined sites on a phantom head. Use of positioners and collimators can reduce the amount of radiation exposure.

Changing trends of tobacco use in a teenage population in western Pennsylvania.

Information on tobacco use was obtained from an anonymous questionnaire distributed to 609 8th, 9th, and 10th grade students in the Pittsburgh area. The data disclosed that 22 per cent of the girls and 11 per cent of the boys were smoking. However, 35 per cent of the young men reported using smokeless tobacco; snuff dipping (6 per cent), tobacco chewing (10 per cent), and snuff and/or tobacco chewing (19 per cent).