MD927 Fixed Orthodontic Appliances

Aims & Learning Outcomes

On completion of the module, you should be able to...

4.1 describe the history of fixed appliances and evaluate the different types of fixed appliances; understand the advantages and disadvantages of fixed appliances

4.2 place and remove orthodontic separators; identify and select orthodontic bands appropriate for the patient; place, adapt and cement bands to achieve an ideal fit

4.3 identify attachments appropriate for individual teeth; be able to

4.4 clean and prepare the tooth surfaces for orthodontic bonding

4.5 evaluate the use of orthodontic adhesives and cements

4.6 place attachments, including bonded retainers, onto the teeth in the correct position

4.7 prepare archwires; insert and ligate archwires and archwire auxiliaries; ligate groups of teeth together and describe the technique of welding attachments to bands.

4.8 release and remove ligatures; archwires and archwire auxiliaries, cemented and bonded attachments; differentiate between dental tissues, dental deposits, adhesive and cement and be able to remove orthodontic adhesive and cement residues from the teeth

4.9 carry out supragingival cleaning and polishing of the teeth using both powered and manual instrumentation, including stain removal and prophylaxis where directly relevant to orthodontic treatment

4.10 understand the effect of diet on oral health with particular reference to orthodontics and the potential risks to the patient of poor diet whilst wearing orthodontic appliances; give diet and oral health advice to orthodontic patients

4.11 Assess and manage fear and anxiety with behavioural techniques and empathise with patients in stressful situations

4.12 understand the manifestations of anxiety and pain and the various methods available for their management and control

4.13 identify damaged and distorted orthodontic appliances and take limited action to relieve pain or make an appliance safe in the absence of a dentist; identify when a situation is beyond the orthodontic therapist’s expertise and requires the patient to be seen by a dentist; understand the need to arrange early attention by a dentist following the emergency treatment