Contemporary Orthodontics (2012)

As has become customary for all of the previous editions, this book represents a valuable teaching resource for all students interested in orthodontics. The previous editions have needed no real introduction, and this edition also adds to the reputation of the authors. It consists of 19 chapters over 724 pages (excluding the index). A major step forward is the availability of the book and images on the internet. This is a major development for which the authors and publishers should be highly commended. HOORAY! But how long has this taken to arrive as a regular feature in dental publishing? However, looking at the subject-matter, the book’s content and format has also clearly been updated with areas of current development, including Cone Beam Computed Tomography, Ligature-less bracket systems, positioner type orthodontic appliances, and a critique of some of the false commercial claims now littering our profession. There is also inclusion of oscillating appliances to speed up tooth movement. As with previous versions, it is quite unique to see an American publication with an implicit realization that literature and data are actually published outside of America. There is a broad representation of articles in the references used. Many dated to 2011 and some ‘In Press’ articles to validate the contemporary opinion in the textbook. A few points immediately stand out for comment (but to say these were major issues would be churlish in the extreme). For example on page 41 the features being depicted are not that obvious; page 75 does not mention Hassall or Lamparski; page 227 has out-of-focus extra-oral features. There could also easily be a physiologist’s debate over the time scale of piezoelectric charge (page 280) and the colour balance of the histology detracts from the quality of the image. These are very very minor points. The logical layout, clear text, and illustrations overwhelm these comments. For example there are some clear and precise flow charts (such as the one on page 416) which assist the reader and it is heartening to see efficient use of removable appliances (page 436) used to distalize and derotate a mesial migrated molar tooth. Any student of orthodontics wishing for self-improvement should acquire the latest text. The reader will not be disappointed. I am also sure the authors will reap their just reputational rewards.