Teeth extractions are followed by a reduction of the bucco-lingual as well as the vertical dimension of the residual alveolar ridge. The ensuing resorption is progressive and even the basal jaw may become involved. In the lower jaw, the....
Routine evaluation of a patient’s temporo-mandibular joint function is an integral part of any oral examination.
Moreover, good muscular control and painless coordination of jaw movements are desirable in the management of edentulism...
Most patients’ mouth opening readily permits access for routine prosthodontic and surgical treatment interventions. Limited mouth opening or microstomia is encountered in patients exposed to sclerodermia, diffuse systemic...
Children and adolescents (during ongoing bone/skeletal development), unless in selected anodontia patients. However, implant placement for orthodontic treatment purposes is indicated.
Uncontrolled metabolic diseases such as Diabetes Mellit...
Parafunctional activities can apply high forces to both implant and prosthetic components. These forces can lead to fracture or loosening of screws and abutments, chipping of the veneering material or fracture of the prosthetic reconstruction...
It is important to evaluate signs indicating if the patient abuses alcohol or takes recreational drugs and may have developed addictions. In general these drugs have a psychedelic,...
The medical history should reveal if the patient takes any prescribed medication and especially whether in the correct dosage. Fear of oral surgery may induce a temporary overconsumption of drugs such as beta-blockers or...
Smoking and nicotine consumption have a constrictive effect on blood vessels thereby reducing blood supply. It increases the susceptibility to periodontal inflammatory diseases, dry extraction sockets and wound healing...
Edentulism as a consequence of (sub)total agenesis of deciduous and/or permanent teeth in children and adolescents is extremely rare. It is commonly a component of a generalized underlying condition such as ectodermal dysplasia. There are...
A thorough risk assessment forms the cornerstone of successful patient treatment. Four key sources of information permit the clinician to identify pertinent risks and to determine the seriousness of each risk...
The key questions in a complete anamnesis are related to: mouth opening, salivary output, presence of mucosal diseases, gingival health, signs of previous periodontal surgeries, tooth hypermobility, TMJ problems, orthodontic...
It is helpful if a clinician is situated so that his/her eyes are at the level of the patient's eyes. For example, if the patient is seated, the clinician should also be seated. It is beneficial if the interview between clinician and...