The present direction of research in forensic odontology.

Forensic odontology is receiving increased attention in the literature and has become a widely recognized field of expertise with broad ramifications. With this growth, research is needed to solve the most pressing problems of the discipline. The purpose of this paper is to identify current trends in research in forensic odontology.

Ameloblastic fibrosarcoma.

Ameloblastic fibrosarcoma is an extremely rare tumor. To date only 43 cases have been reported in the literature. An additional case of ameloblastic fibrosarcoma is presented; the clinical features, histologic characteristics, treatment, and the relevance of the presence of dental hard tissue are discussed.

The effect of knowledge of the desired outcome on dental motor performance.

Knowledge of the desired outcome of a series of movements is a critical component of motor performance, since it is used to develop the appropriate motor program and to form a basis for understanding terminal extrinsic feedback and formulating subjective reinforcement. In dentistry, information about the desired outcome is almost always disseminated in a lecture and laboratory manual, and a demonstration often is provided. However, mastery by students usually is not given the importance it deserves.

Multiple oral petechiae and ecchymoses in a patient with osteoarthritis.

Ibuprofen is a frequently used medication, and possible drug reactions should be familiar to the clinician. Because oral manifestations of thrombocytopenia are often the initial finding and possibly represent the only clinical evidence of this disease, the dentist should be able to recognize the significance of these lesions and refer the patient for appropriate evaluation and therapy.