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BACKGROUND: There is a general consensus among dental professionals regarding the extraction of impacted third molars in the presence of clinical symptoms. However, there is less agreement on the management of asymptomatic third molars. The objective of this study is to compare the perspectives of oral surgeons and orthodontists regarding the indications for the extraction of asymptomatic third molars. It is possible that healthcare professionals from different specialties may approach the extraction of these teeth in different ways. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, a web-based questionnaire has been employed to collect data by inquiring about the reasons why participants prefer the extraction of asymptomatic third molars. Descriptive statistics were employed to evaluate the data obtained. The level of significance was set at P < 0.05. RESULTS: Prophylactic extraction of partially impacted molars was more favored among the participants (P < 0.05). The orthodontists preferred prophylactic extraction due to the risk of late anterior dental crowding (LADC); however, the oral surgeons preferred pre-pregnancy extractions (P < 0.05). The extraction decision for partial impaction was higher in females when the risk of distal caries was considered. For fully impacted ones, it was higher in males when the risk of caries and pericoronitis were considered (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Orthodontists preferred extraction because of the risk of LADC and caries, while oral surgeons focused on preventing pericoronitis, pathology, focal infection, and symptoms during pregnancy. This divergence between the participants may inform the guidelines for prophylactic management of third molars. These findings may be pertinent in gender medicine. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This study has been enlightening for departments to consult each other before the extraction of a patient's asymptomatic third molar.

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OBJECTIVES: To investigate the influence of vertical facial type on esthetic perception of lower facial asymmetry as evaluated by orthodontists, dentists, and laypeople. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Three adult females were selected with normal growth patterns (NGP), vertical growth patterns (VGP), and horizontal growth patterns (HGP). Frontal photographs were made symmetric and digitally altered, rotating the lower facial third clockwise, ranging from 0° to 6° in 1° increments. A web-based survey was designed with 24 images (eight images for each model) in random order. Each image was rated using a scale ranging from 0 (unattractive) to 10 (the most attractive) by 75 orthodontists, 73 dentists, and 78 laypeople. Kruskal-Wallis test was used to determine whether differences among groups were significant. Pairwise comparisons were made with Mann-Whitney U test. The significance level was set at P = .05. RESULTS: In NGP, orthodontists and dentists could recognize slighter deviations (2°), while deviations in VGP and HGP under 3° were not recognized by all groups. Severe deviations (≥4°) were distinguished better in HGP by orthodontists and laypeople. In VGP and NGP, there was no significant difference over 4°. CONCLUSIONS: Growth pattern has a significant influence on perception of lower facial asymmetry. Less severe asymmetry can be detected better in NGP. In severe degrees, increments of asymmetry can be perceived more in HGP by orthodontists and laypeople.

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No study has examined the simultaneous effect of facial forms, midline deviations and midline angulations on facial beauty. Therefore, this comprehensive study aimed to evaluate these and many other hypotheses. This psychometric study was performed on 15,042 observations. A female frontal photograph was edited to 45 perceptometric images with controlled anatomical alteration: 3 facial forms (euryprosopic [brachyfacial], mesoprosopic [mesofacial], leptoprosopic [dolichofacial]), each having either 9 bidirectional midline deviations (0, 1, 2, 3, and 4 mm deviated to the left and right) or 7 bidirectional midline angular deviations (0°, 5°, 10°, and 15° deviated to the left and right). One of the photographs were repeated. These 46 images were esthetically judged by 327 participants (243 laypeople, 49 orthodontists, and 35 'prosthodontists or restorative dentists'). Hierarchical mixed-model multiple linear regressions and post hoc tests were adopted to evaluate the simultaneous impacts of the photomodel's facial forms, midline deviations to the right or left, and midline rolls to the right or left plus sex, age, experience, and dental specialty of the referees on their perception of facial beauty as well as the tolerable zones of midline alterations. These were also done separately for each specialty group, and also for each facial face. Ideal combinations of anatomic features were determined using repeated-measures ANOVAs. Differences between esthetic preferences of different groups in terms of each image were assessed using one-way ANOVAs and t-tests (α = 0.05, α = 0.008, α = 0.001). All 5 anatomical features significantly and independently influenced perception of facial beauty. The tolerance threshold for midline deviations was 1 mm deviations to the right and left sides. For midline rolls, the only tolerable form was the no-roll ('on') midline; the judges preferred right-oriented defects over left-sided ones. The most beautiful facial form was mesoprosopic, followed by leptoprosopic. Men perceived the female face slightly more attractive than did women. The viewers' specialty (or lack of it), their age, or their experience did not affect their esthetic preferences. Predictors of esthetic preferences were all 5 anatomical features plus views' sex, but not their dental specialty, age, or experience. Zones of acceptability and also the ideal range of anatomical features were determined.

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BACKGROUND: Information on previous traumatic dental injuries is important as they can lead to increased complications during orthodontic treatment and impact the treatment planning and outcomes. The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge of Jordanian orthodontists in orthodontic management of traumatized permanent teeth. METHODS: Cross-sectional survey among active registered orthodontists using a questionnaire distributed by hand. RESULTS: The study included 139 orthodontists. Nearly half of orthodontists treated between one to three patients with a history of traumatic dental injuries in the past 3 months. Only 43.2% of the participant asked routinely about history of trauma. A vast discrepancy in times waited before orthodontic movement and in the orthodontic management approach of traumatized teeth was noted. A statistically significant negative relationship between age and knowledge level was found (p = 0.002). A significantly higher level of knowledge was found among participants who had fellowship or board certification than those having the high diploma degree (P-0.032) and also who had treated patients with history of dental trauma in the last 3 months than those who did not (p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The knowledge of the surveyed orthodontists in both the recommended observation period before orthodontic treatment and management approaches of traumatized teeth during orthodontic treatment was insufficient. Years of clinical experience significantly affected knowledge, with older participants having lower levels of knowledge. Orthodontists who treated patients with history of dental trauma in the last 3 months had significantly higher knowledge in orthodontic management of traumatized teeth. Orthodontists needs to be aware of the proper timing and strategies on orthodontic management of traumatized permanent teeth to improve the long term prognosis and to reduce further complications during orthodontic treatment through proper management.

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INTRODUCTION: The removal of residual resins is a routine procedure in orthodontic clinics and of great importance to the final result of the treatment. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the main methods of residual resin removal used by orthodontists, and the main reasons for choosing these methods. METHODS: A questionnaire consisting of 21 questions: 6 relating to demographic data and the other 15 relating to two methods used to remove residual resins (drills or pliers) was sent by e-mail to orthodontists registered with the Regional Councils of Dentistry of São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) within April and June, 2023. Questionnaires were sent back by 153 professionals. RESULTS: Residual resin removal is always carried out with high speed drill for 44.7% of the sample, and with low speed drill for 28.7%; 61.3% use irrigation. The multi-laminate carbide bur is used by 82.5% of orthodontists. Pliers are always used by 12.4%. Resin-removing pliers with Widia are used in 39% of cases. The use of high speed was justified by the shorter working time, and the choice of pliers was justified by the smaller damage to the tooth enamel. CONCLUSION: The most used residual resin removal method was the multi-laminate carbide bur at high speed with irrigation, justified the by shorter working time.

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PURPOSE: The Covid-19 epidemic has imposed profound changes on the practice of orthodontics. It was in this anxiety-inducing context that drastic measures were imposed on orthodontists. The main aim of this online survey is to highlight the measures that are still in place in French orthodontic practices three years after the emergence of the pandemic. METHODS: A cross-sectional online survey was distributed to French orthodontists from march to June 2023. The questionnaire, consisting of 32 questions, was divided into five sections covering habits before and after the pandemic, and the feelings of professionals. RESULTS: In this survey 230 complete answers were recorded. Three years later, the daily pace had returned to its pre-crisis level. Disinfection and aeration times were still present (p < 0.001). Orthodontists maintained and generalized the use of protective glasses (p = 0.17) and visors (p < 0.001). The same was true for the FFP2 mask and its frequency of change, as well as rigorous hand washing. Finally, the dedicated layout of the practices was maintained: protective screen, filtration system, supply of SHA, travel paths, removal of magazines (for all, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: This study shows that the professional practices imposed by the Covid-19 crisis have been adopted by the majority of French orthodontists, and now appear to be anchored in their routine practice. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: opinion n°2023-004, dated 01.25.2023.

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OBJECTIVE: In developed countries, orthodontists utilize social media platforms as a pivotal component of their marketing strategies. However, there exists a gap in understanding the broader perspective of healthcare professionals on the utilization of social media in healthcare service delivery. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the perceptions of healthcare professionals in Turkey regarding the integration of social media within healthcare service delivery. MATERIALS & METHODS: This cross-sectional study, conducted between January and February 2023, surveyed 378 members of the Turkish Orthodontic Society. The survey consisted of two parts: a demographic questionnaire with 28 items and a 21-item "Social Media Marketing Activities Scale," developed with input from three experts. Data analysis will include an explanatory factor analysis. This study provides a snapshot of orthodontists' perspectives on social media marketing practices. RESULTS: When participants' views of patient communication through social media were examined, 19.8% said they "thought it was right" and 80.2% said they "thought it was wrong". The treatment and treatment alternatives shared with patients through social media were implemented in 16.5% of cases and not implemented in 83.5% of cases. When examining the social media accounts used by participants to communicate with patients, 56.8% used personal accounts, 43.2% used professional accounts, and when analyzing the social media accounts they used for promotional purposes, 15.8% had personal accounts, 84.2% of them used professional accounts. More than half (59.8%) of orthodontists believed that communicating with patients on social media could cause legal problems. The majority of orthodontists (88.7%) followed their competitors. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of participants' use of social media posts for advertising purposes was low, and it was determined that the main reason for this was the prohibition of advertising in the provision of health services.

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BACKGROUND: The acceptability and preference for clear aligner therapy (CAT) has been increasing among orthodontists, but there is still a lack of consensus regarding CAT best practices. Consequently, this study aimed to investigate CAT practices among orthodontists practicing in Canada. METHODS: The survey was conducted among orthodontists practicing in Canada using a modified previously published survey. Sixty orthodontists participated (6.1% response rate). It consisted of 11 sections with open and closed questions related to demographic information and particularities about using or not using CAT. The survey responses were exported from REDCap to a Microsoft Excel (Microsoft, Redmond, Wash) spreadsheet, then statistically analyzed using SPSS software (SPSS for Windows, version 21.0; IBM Inc., Armonk, NY, USA). The comments were categorized under themes and subthemes. Data were organized in descriptive statistics, expressing frequencies and percentages. RESULTS: Almost 30% of the orthodontist's annual caseload was treated with CAT, most frequently prescribed to adult patients. Case complexity and patient cooperation were the factors that most influenced the decision to prescribe CAT. Almost half of orthodontists reported sometimes combining CAT with adjunctive fixed appliances. CONCLUSIONS: Most orthodontists prescribe CAT, and its use is based on the malocclusion's complexity. Orthodontists who do not prescribe CAT believe that fixed appliance therapy has superior treatment outcomes.

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This study aimed to compare the smile's attractiveness in patients submitted to the treatment of gummy smiles with botulinum toxin or maxillary impaction surgery. The retrospective sample comprised 26 patients divided into two groups: Group 1 (BTX): 13 patients (12 females and 1 male) with a mean age of 28.06 years (s.d. = 6.09) and mean gingival exposure during smile of 5.18 mm (s.d. = 1.51) treated with botulinum toxin; Group 2 (SURGICAL): 13 patients (9 females and 4 males) with a mean age of 30.59 years (s.d. = 5.72) and mean gingival exposure during smile of 5.21 mm (s.d. = 1.55) treated with orthognathic maxillary impaction surgery. The group of evaluators comprised 317 participants, divided into 143 orthodontists (85 females and 58 males) with a mean age of 41.40 (s.d. = 9.30); 62 dentists (47 female and 15 male) with a mean age of 35.44 (s.d. = 10.44), and 112 lay people (74 female and 38 male) with a mean age of 46, 91 (s.d. = 10.11) in a questionnaire on Google Forms. Without knowing the therapy used, the evaluators assigned scores to the photographs of the posed smile taken before (T1) and after (T2) treatment. Intergroup comparison of smile attractiveness was performed using the t-independent, one-way ANOVA, and Tukey tests. There was a significant improvement in smile attractiveness with treatment in both groups; however, the improvement was significantly better in the surgical group than in the BTX group. Orthodontists rated smile attractiveness significantly higher than dentists and laypersons for the final phase of the BTX and surgical groups. There was a significant improvement in the smile attractiveness with botulinum toxin application and orthodontic-surgical treatment. However, orthognathic surgery promoted a greater improvement in smile attractiveness than the application of botulinum toxin.

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BACKGROUND: The American Association of Orthodontists white paper on obstructive sleep apnea and orthodontics remains the most authoritative statement on the topic. This was produced in 2019 due to increasing orthodontic interest in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and the lack of formal guidelines for orthodontists. Since the white paper's release, advocacy for contrarian ideas and practices remain. Orthodontists are sometimes acting as primary care providers for OSA. Procedures appropriate only for screening are sometimes being used for diagnosis. The side effects of effective treatments such as mandibular advancement devices need further consideration. Also, research has clarified the effectiveness and ineffectiveness of treatments such as palatal expansion. RESULTS: Part of an orthodontist's role is screening for OSA. The correct action when this is suspected remains referral to the appropriate physician specialist for diagnosis and treatment or coordination of treatment. Orthodontists may participate in the treatment of patients with OSA as a member of a multi-disciplinary team. Effective orthodontic treatments may include orthognathic surgery with maxillomandibular advancement and mandibular advancement devices. The negative effects of the latter make this a choice of last resort. Current research indicates that OSA alone is not sufficient indication for palatal expansion. CONCLUSIONS: Orthodontists should appropriately screen for obstructive sleep apnea. This may be done as part of our health histories, our clinical examination, and review of radiographs taken for purposes other than the diagnosis and screening for OSA. Orthodontic treatment for OSA can be helpful and effective. However, this may be done only after referral to the appropriate physician specialist, as part of a multi-disciplinary team, with consideration of the likely effectiveness of treatment, and after all likely and potential negative consequences have been considered and thoroughly discussed with the patient.

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Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) can affect children and adults, and, if left untreated, could have a major impact on the general and overall well-being of the patient. Dental health care providers and orthodontists have an interdisciplinary role in screening patients at risk for OSA and make a referral to establish a definitive diagnosis by a sleep physician. The gold standard of diagnostic testing is polysomnography. The adeno-tonsillar hypertrophy is the primary cause of sleep apnea in children; therefore, adeno-tonsillectomy must be the first line of treatment. Post adeno-tonsillectomy, if there is residual OSA due to underlying skeletal discrepancy, the patient may be referred to an orthodontist for appropriate management. Currently the evidence in the literature for prophylactic growth modification in children to prevent OSA is weak. In adults, the gold standard for managing OSA is Positive Airway Pressure (PAP) therapy; however, adherence to this treatment is rather low. The oral appliance (OA) therapy is an alternate for PAP intolerant patients and for mild to moderate OSA patients. The OA therapy has to be administered by a qualified dentist or orthodontist after careful examination of dental and periodontal health as well as any pre-existing joint conditions. The OA therapy could cause OA-associated malocclusion and patients have to be made aware of prior to initiating treatment. In patients with severe OSA, surgical maxilla-mandibular advancement (MMA) is highly effective.

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INTRODUCTION: Mouthguards (MGs) have the potential to prevent contact sport-related dental injuries. However, varying perceptions of their effectiveness persist, influencing recommendations by dental professionals. AIM: To assess the attitudes, knowledge, and perceptions of orthodontists, other dental practitioners (general dentists and other dental specialists), and orthodontic patients involved in contact sports regarding the use of MGs. METHODOLOGY: A cross-sectional survey was designed to collect information from dental clinicians (orthodontists and other dental practitioners) and their orthodontic patients about using MGs during sports participation. A convenience sampling technique was used to recruit the participants for an online survey. A total of 107 (32 males/75 females) dental clinicians and 147 (75 males/72 females) orthodontic patients (mean age 17.5 ± 5.84 years) participated in the study. Pre-validated questionnaires, specifically designed for dental clinicians and orthodontic patients, were used. Data were analyzed using SPSS software (version 28.0; SPSS). RESULTS: Nearly 50% of dental clinicians have recently recommended MGs to their patients in their clinical practice out of which 59% preferred the stock type; 33% of dental clinicians enquired their patients about involvement in contact sports during initial visits. The majority of orthodontic patients acquired knowledge about MGs through the Internet. More than half of orthodontic patients expressed unwillingness to pay for MGs, and 89% of orthodontic patients found using MGs during contact sports uncomfortable. CONCLUSION: The findings provide valuable insights into the practices and attitudes of dental clinicians and orthodontic patients regarding MGs, their recommendations, and the comfort levels associated with using them during contact sports.

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INTRODUCTION: The objectives of this study were to evaluate how laypersons and orthodontists evaluate and rank aesthetic parameters of an implant-supported crown (ISC) on the canine position (ISC-C) and lateral position (ISC-L). METHODS: A digital survey of 11 cases, 5 ISC-C, 5 ISC-L and 1 control case without ISC, was distributed to 207 laypersons and 296 orthodontists. All cases included one extraoral photograph and three intraoral photographs. The respondents were asked to identify the ISC and to evaluate the aesthetic parameters regarding colour of the implant (CI), shape of the implant (SI) and gingival colour around ISC (GCI). Differences within and between the groups were tested using Chi-2-test and Independent-Samples t-test. RESULTS: All invited laypersons and 184 orthodontists (62% response rate) answered the survey. Orthodontists (89%) more correctly identified the ISC, regardless of its position, than laypersons (50%) (p < 0.001). Both laypersons (54%) and orthodontists (23%) rated higher proportions of acceptance of CI, SI and GCI in favour for the ISC-L than ISC-C (laypersons: 40%, orthodontists: 10%) (p < 0.001). Assessing each parameter separately, orthodontists rated higher for ISC-L, compared to the ISC-C (p < 0.001). In general, laypersons and orthodontist ranked tooth colour (mean, standard deviation [SD]:8.0,1.5 and 9.0, 1.0) and tooth shape (mean, SD: 8.0, 1.7 and 8.8, 1.2) as aesthetically higher than the gingival colour (mean, SD: 7.2, 2.2 and 8.0, 1.7) (p > 0.001).  Conclusion: Laypersons and orthodontists consider the ISC-L as aesthetically more preferable, compared to the ISC-C.

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INTRODUCTION: Soft skills represent a range of personal skills, attitudes and characteristics relevant to success and adequate work performance. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge and usage of soft skills in Orthodontics. METHODS: The participants answered a questionnaire containing 27 objective questions on awareness and frequency of soft skills in their professional activities. Participants were also asked to rank the soft skills in a crescent order of importance. The sample was divided into subgroups: A) residents in Orthodontics; B) orthodontists with less than 5 years of experience and C) orthodontists with more than 5 years of experience. Intergroup comparisons were performed using the Kruskal-Wallis test. Sexual differences were compared using Mann-Whitney test (p< 0.05). RESULTS: The sample of this observational study comprised 129 experienced orthodontists and residents in Orthodontics (92 women, 37 men) with mean age of 35.3 years. From the total sample, 54,6% of respondents reported no previous instructions on soft skills. All respondents reported using the analyzed soft skills with a similar frequency (median 4-5). Residents reported accessing reliable sources in bibliographic research less frequently (46%). Female orthodontists reported to seek help from teachers and other professionals more often than males. Ethics and communication were frequently ranked as the most important soft skills. Information management and leadership were frequently less ranked as important soft skills. CONCLUSION: Poor knowledge of soft skills was demonstrated by residents and orthodontists. Communication skill was highly used and frequently ranked as the most important soft skill.

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BACKGROUND: Accelerated orthodontic teeth movement are procedures carried out to increase the rate of tooth movement thereby reducing treatment time. There are numerous techniques currently available to accelerate orthodontic treatment time, but evidence is still needed to determine the degree to which orthodontists accept and practice accelerated orthodontics. The present study is aimed at assessing the knowledge of Orthodontists on the practice of accelerated orthodontics; as well as their willingness to adopt it as a treatment option for their patients. METHODOLOGY: Ethical approval was obtained before the commencement of the study. The study population comprised all orthodontists practicing in Nigeria. Questionnaires were administered physically to the orthodontists at their annual general meeting. E-mails were further used to distribute the questionnaire to the orthodontists who were absent from the annual meeting. The questionnaire obtained information on respondents' biodata, knowledge, attitude, and practice of accelerated orthodontic treatment procedures.Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS software version 27. The level of significance was 0.05 for all statistical analysis. RESULTS: The study participants comprised 60 respondents, with a mean age of 34.18 years and a male-to-female ratio of 1.3:1. A Majority of them were satisfied with treatment time/duration (61.7%), they had a good knowledge of accelerated orthodontics (83.3%) with piezocision (75%) and micro-osteoperforation (63.3%) being the most popular. All orthodontists were interested in accelerated orthodontics, if it offered up to 30% reduction in treatment time. Major limitations to the practice included unavailability of technique materials (50%), insufficient knowledge (41.7%) and cost (35%). CONCLUSION: Most orthodontists did not routinely practice accelerated orthodontics despite adequate knowledge. They were willing to offer accelerated orthodontic treatment (AOT) if patients were willing to pay an additional fee. The less invasive methods were more accepted.

CONTEXTE: Les mouvements dentaires orthodontiques accélérés sont des procédures réalisées pour augmenter la vitesse de déplacement des dents, réduisant ainsi le temps de traitement. Il existe de nombreuses techniques actuellement disponibles pour accélérer le temps de traitement orthodontique, mais des preuves sont encore nécessaires pour déterminer dans quelle mesure les orthodontistes acceptent et pratiquent l'orthodontie accélérée. La présente étude vise à évaluer les connaissances des orthodontistes sur la pratique de l'orthodontie accélérée, ainsi que leur volonté de l'adopter comme option de traitement pour leurs patients. MÉTHODOLOGIE: L'approbation éthique a été obtenue avant le début de l'étude. La population étudiée comprenait tous les orthodontistes exerçant au Nigeria. Des questionnaires ont été administrés physiquement aux orthodontistes lors de leur assemblée générale annuelle. Des courriels ont ensuite été utilisés pour distribuer le questionnaire aux orthodontistes absents de l'assemblée annuelle. Le questionnaire a recueilli des informations sur les données biographiques des répondants, ainsi que sur leurs connaissances, attitudes et pratiques en matière de traitement orthodontique accéléré. L'analyse statistique a été réalisée à l'aide du logiciel IBM SPSS version 27. Le niveau de signification était de 0,05 pour toutes les analyses statistiques. RÉSULTATS: Les participants à l'étude étaient au nombre de 60, avec un âge moyen de 34,18 ans et un ratio hommes-femmes de 1,3:1. La majorité d'entre eux étaient satisfaits du temps/durée du traitement (61,7 %), ils avaient de bonnes connaissances en orthodontie accélérée (83,3 %) avec la piezocision (75 %) et la micro-ostéoperforation (63,3 %) étant les plus populaires. Tous les orthodontistes étaient intéressés par l'orthodontie accélérée, si elle offrait une réduction allant jusqu'à 30 % du temps de traitement. Les principales limitations à la pratique comprenaient l'indisponibilité des matériaux de technique (50 %), le manque de connaissances (41,7 %) et le coût (35 %). CONCLUSION: La plupart des orthodontistes ne pratiquaient pas systématiquement l'orthodontie accélérée malgré des connaissances adéquates. Ils étaient prêts à proposer un traitement orthodontique accéléré (TOA) si les patients étaient prêts à payer des frais supplémentaires. Les méthodes moins invasives étaient plus acceptées. MOTS-CLÉS: Orthodontie accélérée, orthodontiste, temps de traitement, piezocision.

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OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate orthodontists' utilization and perceptions of tele-orthodontics. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A 30-item online survey was distributed to members of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO). The questionnaire encompassed topics concerning the orthodontists' utilization, perceptions, clinical applications, limitations, and concerns regarding tele-orthodontics. Descriptive statistics were employed, and comparisons between responses from users and non-users were conducted  using Wilcoxon rank-sum tests and Fisher's exact tests. RESULTS: 152 members completed the survey, (response rate: 2.4%). More than two third of respondents (69.74%) were users of tele-orthodontics. Users were more aligned with the belief that tele-orthodontics facilitates effective communication (mean ± standard deviation (SD) 4.06 ± 0.83 vs. 3.33 ± 0.94, p < 0.001). Both groups agreed on the requirement of patient fees for tele-orthodontic visits (mean ± SD: 3.62 ± 1.11 users vs. 3.74 ± 1.02 non-users, p = 0.659), and on the capability  of the system to reduce unwarranted referrals (p = 0.20). The majority of participants acknowledged  the utility of the system in monitoring aligners' patients (89% in users vs. 61% in non-users, p < 0.001). Non-users expressed greater concerns regarding privacy risks (mean ± SD: 3.06 ± 0.97 users vs. 3.57 ± 0.86 non-users, p = 0.002). Both groups stressed the significance of obtaining informed consent before utilizing tele-orthodontics. CONCLUSIONS: The widespread acceptance of tele-orthodontics among AAO members was apparent, as demonstrated by their recognition of its effectiveness. There was notable variation in how users and non-users perceived tele-orthodontics. The study's results offer valuable insights into both the potential benefits and drawbacks of incorporating this technology into clinical practice from the clincians' perspective.

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Introduction: Common Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD) involve the masticatory muscles, temporomandibular joints, and/or their associated structures. Clinical manifestations can vary, including sounds (cracking, crepitus), pain, and/or dyskinesias, often corresponding to a limitation of mandibular movements. Signs or symptoms of muscular or joint disorders of the masticatory system may be present before the initiation of orthodontic treatment, emerge during treatment, or worsen to the point of stopping treatment. How do you screen for common TMD in orthodontic treatment? Materials and Methods: The main elements of the interview and clinical examination for screening common TMD in the context of orthodontic treatment are clarified and illustrated with photographs. Moreover, complementary examinations are also detailed. Results: A clinical screening form for common TMD is proposed. A synthetic decision tree helping in the screening of TMD is also presented. Conclusion: In the context of an orthodontic treatment, the screening examination for common TMD includes gathering information (interview), a clinical evaluation, and possibly complementary investigations. The orthodontist is supported in this approach through the development of a clinical form and a dedicated synthetic decision tree for the screening of TMDs. Systematically screening for common TMD before initiating orthodontic treatment allows the orthodontist to suggest additional diagnostic measures, implement appropriate therapeutic interventions, and/or refer to a specialist in the field if necessary.

Introduction: Les dysfonctionnements temporo-mandibulaires (DTM) concernent les muscles masticateurs, les articulations temporo- mandibulaires et/ou leurs structures associées. Les manifestations cliniques peuvent être diverses : bruits (craquements, crépitements), algies et/ou dyscinésies correspondant le plus souvent à une limitation des mouvements mandibulaires. Or, des signes ou symptômes de troubles musculaires ou articulaires de l'appareil manducateur peuvent être présents avant le début de la prise en charge orthodontique, voire apparaître en cours de traitement ou s'aggraver au point de remettre en question la poursuite du traitement engagé. Comment conduire un dépistage de DTM communs dans le cadre d'une prise en charge orthodontique ? Matériel et méthodes: Les éléments essentiels de l'entretien et de l'examen clinique d'un dépistage des DTM communs dans le cadre d'une consultation d'orthodontie sont clarifiés et illustrés à l'aide de photographies. Le recours aux examens complémentaires a également été détaillé. Résultats: Une fiche clinique de dépistage des DTM communs est proposée. Un arbre décisionnel synthétique aidant au dépistage des DTM est présenté. Conclusion: Dans le cadre d'une consultation d'orthopédie dento-faciale, l'examen de dépistage des DTM communs inclut un recueil d'informations (entretien), une évaluation clinique et éventuellement des examens complémentaires. L'orthodontiste est soutenu dans cette démarche par la création d'une fiche clinique et d'un arbre décisionnel synthétique dédiés au dépistage des DTM. Effectuer systématiquement un dépistage des DTM communs avant d'initier un traitement orthodontique permettra à l'orthodontiste de proposer des moyens diagnostiques supplémentaires si nécessaire, et de mettre en place la prise en charge adéquate et/ou de référer à un spécialiste du domaine pour démarrer le traitement orthodontique dans les meilleures conditions.

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OBJECTIVES: To survey treatment-planning practices of orthodontists related to the Invisalign Lite clear aligner appliance (Align Technology, San Jose, Calif). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients satisfying inclusion and exclusion criteria and treated with Invisalign Lite were selected from a database containing more than 17,000 patients. Relevant data regarding treatment-planning practices were obtained from Align Technology's treatment-planning facility, ClinCheck, and evaluated. RESULTS: Most (n = 135; 79.9%) patients were female and had a median (interquartile range [IQR]) age of 30.5 (23.8, 43.1) years. The median (IQR) number of aligners for the sample was 23.0 (14, 28) for the maxilla and 24 (14, 28) for the mandible. Most (n = 122; 72.2%) patients required at least one additional series of aligners. More locations for interproximal reduction (IPR) were prescribed in the mandible (mean 1.91 [1.78]) than in the maxilla (1.03 [1.78]; P < .024) in the initial accepted plan of all patients. More teeth were prescribed composite resin (CR) attachments in the maxilla (P < .0001) in the initial accepted plan of all patients. Issues regarding tooth position protocols (n = 50; 53.3%) and requirement for additional IPR (n = 68; 45.3%) were reasons for treatment plan changes before acceptance of the initial treatment plan by orthodontists. CONCLUSIONS: More than 7 of 10 patients required at least one additional series of aligners after the initial series of Invisalign Lite aligners was completed. Prescription of IPR was more common in the mandible, and prescription of CR attachments was more common in the maxilla.

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BACKGROUND: Did the COVID-19 pandemic affect orthodontists' use of remote monitoring platforms? The goal of this research was to examine orthodontists' experiences implementing remote monitoring platforms before, during, and after the initial COVID-19 lockdown. METHODS: In this descriptive cross-sectional survey study, an electronic, anonymous questionnaire consisting of a series of 31 short-answer and multiple-choice questions was administered to an international sampling of practicing orthodontists. The target population in the study included currently practicing orthodontists who were graduates of an accredited orthodontic residency program. Participants were recruited in 2021 through collaboration with the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) Partners in Research Program and the Harvard School of Dental Medicine Orthodontic Alumni Association. Descriptive analysis was conducted, reporting frequency (N and %) distributions for each question. The questionnaire aimed to describe whether orthodontists incorporated remote monitoring platforms into their practices, their experiences doing so, and if the COVID-19 pandemic influenced their use of these resources. RESULTS: Orthodontists' use of remote monitoring platforms was negligible prior to the pandemic; however, a quarter of surveyed orthodontists began using a remote monitoring platform during COVID-19 and nearly all respondents plan to continue using remote monitoring for the foreseeable future. Approximately half of orthodontists believe most patients' treatment progress can be monitored to the standard of care between in-person orthodontic appointments using remote monitoring platforms. Half of the orthodontists who do not currently use a remote monitoring platform in their practice are interested in learning more about how to implement one. CONCLUSIONS: The COVID-19 pandemic led to an increase in the interest and adoption of remote monitoring platforms in orthodontic practices. Most orthodontists had not incorporated remote monitoring platforms into their practices prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, this study revealed that a subset of orthodontists utilized the pandemic as motivation to incorporate remote monitoring into their practices and an additional group of orthodontists were interested in incorporating one in the future. Remote monitoring platforms garnered interest and importance with the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic and may only have an increasing role in the field in years to come.

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