Risk Management in Orthodontics: Experts' Guide to Malpractice

Although the risk of harm in orthodontics is considerably limited compared to surgery or other invasive medical and dental therapies, there is nonetheless growing concern about medicolegal issues and risk management within the orthodontics community. This book describes the myriad potential malpractice problems associated with orthodontics therapy and provides sound advice about how to avoid them. It is divided into two parts: avoiding potential iatrogenic responses associated with orthodontic treatment and malpractice and risk management. An essential resource for all orthodontists, other dental professionals, and trial lawyers.



Contents

1 Classification of Undesirable Tissue, Organ, and System Effects Hypothetically Linked to Orthodontics: An Introduction

2 Enamel Color Alterations Associated with Orthodontics

3 Enamel Effects During Bonding-Debonding and Treatment with Fixed Appliances

4 Metabolic Profile of Orthodontic Patients Exhibiting Root Resorption: An Assessment of the Biologic Predisposition Hypothesis

5 Minimizing Orthodontically Induced Root Resorption

6 Damage to Tooth-Supporting Tissues in Orthodontics

7 Release of Wear and Corrosion Products from Orthodontic Alloys: A Review of Mechanisms and Biologic Properties

8 Polymers in Orthodontics: A Present Danger?

9 Pain and Discomfort in Orthodontics

10 Temporomandibular Disorders and Orthodontics

11 Orthodontic Treatment for the Medically Compromised Patient

12 Risk Management

13 Malpractice Aspects of Orthodontic Treatment in Patients with Periodontal Disease

14 Avoiding Malpractice Lawsuits: Lessons Learned from Actual Malpractice Case Histories

15 Practical Legal Advice for Avoiding Malpractice Lawsuits