Eyelid grafting as a preprosthetic measure for restoring facial defects

Prosthetic restoration of a facial defect involving the loss of an eye and associated orbital tissues may be restricted by incorrect orientation of the prosthesis if the reconstructed tissue bed is uniform and without distinctive orbital landmarks. A surgically grafted eyelid is useful in this situation. The lower eyelid graft serves to provide an anatomical guide with which to position the ocular component of the orbital prosthesis in relation to its established visual axis. This assists the subsequent orientation of the adjoining tissue portion of the orbital prosthesis, contributing to a well-positioned and cosmetically pleasing result.     

Knowledge and practice of behavioral management principles among dentists treating adults with learning disabilities

This study investigated U.K. dentists’ knowledge and practice of behavioral management principles (BMPs) as applied to adults with learning disabilities (AWLD). A postal questionnaire enquired into the dentists’ experience in managing AWLD, utilization of behavioral management techniques, and knowledge of BMPs. The response rate was 41% (N = 53). Two groups were investigated: specialists (dentists registered on the Special Care Dentistry specialists’ list, n = 37) and nonspecialists (dentists not on the list, n = 16). Although specialists treated more AWLD than nonspecialists, both groups of dentists reported they felt highly confident in managing AWLD. However, all dentists’ knowledge of the principles of nonpharmacological BMPs was low. Specialists had a tendency to use a greater range of nonpharmacological behavioral management techniques compared to non‐specialists. These results suggest that dental team members need more training in the theory and practice of BMPs, which might lead to less reliance on costly pharmacological interventions and a clinical experience that is more respectful of the dignity and independence of AWLD.     

Occlusal plane orientation in complete denture construction

Guides to the orientation of the occlusal plane in complete denture construction are reviewed and the current opinions of some British dentists are reported.

It is concluded that this element of complete denture construction owes less to the intelligent application of scientific principles than to a form of guesswork.     

Ludwig''s Angina. The anaesthetic management of nine cases

We reviewed nine patients with Ludwig's angina who required surgical drainage over a 24-month period. This represents the largest series reported in world literature. All of these patients were managed successfully by a combination of tracheal intubation and early surgical intervention. None required tracheostomy, which is the previously recommended procedure of choice for airway management.