The aetiology of enamel demineralization during fixed orthodontic treatment and its sequelae are discussed. A summary is given of the various methods available to assess the risk of demineralization prior to active treatment. The best preventive strategy would appear to be an assessment of risk factors prior to banding, coupled with fluoride rinses, regular reinforcement of oral hygiene, and dietary advice throughout the course of treatment.

No abstract

The effects of orthodontic tooth movement on pulpal responses are of interest to the clinician. Alterations to pulpal physiology may result in altered responses to external stimuli. This pilot project tested a small group of orthodontic patients during the early stages of treatment. Heat, cold and electrical stimuli were applied prior to treatment, after the placement of fixed appliances and after one month of force application. A smaller group was tested after two months of force application. One month after force application there was a lack of response to electrical stimulation but there was continued response to thermal stimulation. The lack of response to electrical stimulation continued in the smaller group up to two months. The results suggest that the outcome of electric pulp testing during orthodontic treatment should be interpreted cautiously. Thermal testing will offer more reliable data.

Background:No studies have been reported on the frequency and aetiology of facial injuries due to MVAs in Queensland. This study aims to investigate the incidence, aetiology, age and sex distribution of facial injuries resulting from MVAs for a period of three years. Method: Cases were identified from the Motor Accident Insurance Commission, Queensland. Information including the type of injury sustained, the time, age and role of the patient in the accident were recorded and analysed. Results: There was an average maxillofacial injury incidence of 4.8/100,000 per year, 53.5 per cent in males and 46.5 per cent in females. A peak incidence was found for both sexes aged 18 to 22 years. In males, 57 per cent of facial injuries occurred in this age group compared to 41 per cent in females. Conclusions: Maxillofacial injuries as a result of MVAs are still relatively high regardless of the legislation for compulsory seatbelt use. Recent advances in seatbelt systems have the potential to reduce the risk of head and face impacts. The airbag is also well established as an effective means of preventing serious head and face injury. However, more research is required to further reduce the incidence of maxillofacial injuries as a result of MVAs.