Surendra Lodha

Mandibular morphology and pharyngeal airway space: A cephalometric study

Introduction: Mandibular retrognathism is considered to be the most important risk factor for upper airway obstruction. Aim: This cross-sectional study intended to examine the relationship between craniofacial morphology and the pharyngeal airway space (PAS) in patients with mandibular retrognathism and mandibular prognathism, when compared to normal subjects. The study also analyzed the influence of mandibular morphology on pharyngeal length (PL). Materials and Methods: The PAS was assessed in 92 females (age 15-30 years) further divided into three groups - Group 1- normal mandible (76°≤ SNB ≤82°; n = 31); Group 2- mandibular retrognathism (SNB <76°; n = 31); Group 3-Mandibular prognathism (SNB >82°; n = 30). All subjects were examined by lateral cephalometry with head position standardized using an inclinometer. Craniocervical angulation, uvula length, thickness and angulation were compared among different groups. Results: The results showed no statistically significant difference in the pharyngeal airway between the three groups. Measurements of PL showed statistically significant higher values for retrognathic mandible group than normal and prognathic mandible group. Conclusion: There is no significant difference between PAS between patients with mandibular retrognathism, normal mandible and mandibular prognathism. Mandibular retrognathism patients show a significantly higher uvula angulation than patients with mandibular prognathism. Craniocervical angulation showed maximum value in retrognathic mandible group followed by normal and prognathic mandible group respectively. Mean PL for retrognathic mandible patients was significantly higher than prognathic mandible patients.

Unusual impaction of mandibular second premolar

The present case report demonstrates an unusual impaction of mandibular second premolar and a new classification for impaction of mandibular premolar based on the previous case reports.

Comprehensive and Conservative Management of Talon Cusp: A New Technique.

Talon cusp is a common dental anomaly affecting maxillary central incisors. Gradual grinding of this additional cusp is commonly followed now. Advocated below is a new technique explaining the use of air abrasion and putty index during the stepwise reduction of the cusp. The technique is advantageous in preventing patient discomfort and tracking the amount of reduction in a predictable way.

Double-loop de-rotator

Rotation of a tooth means labial and lingual movements of a tooth around its long axis. It is most evident when viewed from an occlusal perspective. This article describes a simple and economical technique to de-rotate a severely rotated tooth.

Interdisciplinary Treatment of a Periodontally Compromised Adult

This case report describes the interdisciplinary treatment of a 32-year-old female patient showing protrusive profile, a Class I canine relationship complicated with multiple missing teeth, extruded upper left first molar, exaggerated curve of Spee, generalized bone loss and an endoperio lesion involving lower left first premolar. After achieving a complete control of active periodontal disease, extraction of third molars, endodontic therapy of lower left first premolar, followed by orthodontic treatment was carried out. A functional and esthetic occlusion with improved facial profile was established at the end of treatment combined with esthetic restorations of upper anterior teeth to close the black triangles and prosthetic replacement of missing teeth. Chronic periodontal disease create multitude of complications which needs to be treated by a team of dental specialists and not by one individual; in the best interest of the patients including their apprehensions, medical and oral conditions, time and cost.