FIXED ORTHODONTICS FOR THE GENERAL PRACTITIONER

Book excerpt: This book is the Course Manual for Academy of Fixed Orthodontics (AFO) courses in Orthodontics for the general dental practitioner and has been written exclusively for the general dentist who wants to incorporate fixed orthodontics into their practice. Towards this goal the course manual is a concise treatise on the study and practice of fixed orthodontics in general and explains in particular, the technique of MBTTM prescription of preadjusted edgewise appliance system (Straight WireTM). Within about 100 pages of text amply illustrated with color photographs and line drawings, the reader is introduced to the basics of orthodontic theory and practice. Biomechanics of tooth movement and the theory behind the preadjusted appliance system is given in brief. Basic instruments and materials for the fixed orthodontic practice is presented with photographs. Diagnosis and Treatment planning using Clinical tools, Cephalometrics and cast analysis is explained in enough detail. Banding and Bonding of the appliance and wire changes through planned sequence are presented succinctly. Each type of clinical cases (malocclusion) and the extraction and non-extraction methods to be followed is explained in detail. The chapter on Standard Operating Protocol gives the reader the entire steps in practice of straight wire fixed orthodontics in just 3 pages. Four pages of sample Cast Analysis form allows for a thorough practice and at the end of the book few blank pages are given so that the reader can write any notes if needed. All these features make this a unique handbook and desktop reference for the dentist who would like to lean fixed orthodontics. As this is a course manual, it is highly recommended to take up the entire Academy of Fixed Orthodontics course, which is supported by Videos and Lectures and effective post course mentoring. The concepts and implementation of this course will allow the participant to choose the content and period of study that best suits her practice. The course also teaches the latest in fixed orthodontic treatment mechanics including Tip-Edge, Lingual Orthodontics, Orthodontic Mini-Screws and the Self Ligating systems. The course is designed in such a way that the participant can easily understand the basics and will confidently be able to incorporate fixed orthodontics in the general practice. This is a handbook for the clinical practice of fixed orthodontics and is not a textbook on the subject.