Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry
Orthodontics
Know growth and development of the craniofacial complex, the mixed dentition analysis (space analysis, Bolton, Tanaka–Johnston), and the timing of interceptive treatment. Know the Angle classification of malocclusion and the concept of skeletal versus dental discrepancy. Know cephalometric landmarks and the ANB, SNA, SNB angles and their interpretation. Know appliance types: removable (Hawley, functional appliances - Twin Block, Frankel), fixed (brackets, bands, archwires), clear aligners, and temporary anchorage devices. Know anchorage concepts and the biomechanics of tooth movement (optimal force, hyalinisation, undermining resorption, root resorption risk). Know retention principles and the risk of relapse.
Pediatric dentistry
Know child development and behaviour management (tell-show-do, positive reinforcement, voice control, distraction, parental presence decisions). Know caries in children: early childhood caries, the role of feeding practices, fluoride varnish and silver diamine fluoride, sealants, and restorative options (stainless steel crowns, strip crowns, hall technique). Know pulp therapy in primary teeth (pulpotomy, pulpectomy) and the rationale. Know trauma in primary versus permanent teeth - the key difference being the risk of damage to the developing permanent successor. Know local anaesthesia in children (dose calculation by weight, behaviour considerations). Know space maintenance and serial extraction concepts.
Traps
- In primary dentition trauma, do not replant an avulsed primary tooth - risk to the permanent germ.
- Intrusion of a primary tooth is more dangerous to the successor than extrusion.
- Functional appliances work best during growth spurts, not after.
- Skeletal Class II with a retrognathic mandible is treated differently from dental Class II.
Rule of thumb
For a child, calculate LA dose by weight, use the smallest effective volume, and always consider the developing permanent tooth when managing primary trauma.