Biomedical subjects
Publications and source records attributed to A T Dibiase.
A case is reported of what appears to be a transposition affecting the mandibular first, second, and third molars. The possible aetiology is discussed in relation to previously published studies. In the case described the primary actilogical factor appears to intraosseous migration of the developing tooth germ.
Primary failure of eruption is a condition where there is eruption failure in the permanent dentition with no obvious mechanical cause. It has previously been reported in the literature as a cause of posterior openbite, with a varying degree of familial inheritance. This case report describes two sisters that experienced eruption failure in the permanent dentition, most notably of the first and second molars, with greater severity in the younger sister. Teeth were exposed in both patients and orthodontic traction was applied with little or no success. The report provides further evidence of the genetic contribution to the aetiology of this condition and also highlights the problems in attempting treatment, including exposing to the oral environment teeth that are infra-occluded and difficult to clean effectively.
Occasionally orthodontic appliances or parts of orthodontic appliances have caused problems with either the airway or the gastrointestinal tract. The type of appliances that have caused problems and their clinical management are discussed. A case is described in which an upper removable appliance with inadequate retention became lodged in a patient's pharynx lacerating the palatine tonsils. Suggestions are made to try and avoid the problems that were encountered in this case and others reported in the literature in patients undergoing orthodontic treatment.