Contributor

Prof. A. Athanasiou

Country - institution

Department of Orthodontics

School of Dentistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece

Title

Risk Management In Orthodontics

Summary

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 medico-legal issues and risk management within the orthodontics community. The presentation refers to the many 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. The presentation includes the following: 

(1) classification of undesirable tissue, organ and system effects hypothetically linked to orthodontics; (2) enamel alterations associated with orthodontics; (3) minimizing orthodontically induced root resorption; (4) damage to tooth-supporting tissues in orthodontics; (5) release of wear and corrosion products from orthodontic alloys; (6) pain and discomfort in orthodontics; (7) TMD and orthodontics; (8) orthodontic treatment for the medically compromised patient; (9) risk management; (10) malpractice aspects of orthodontic treatment in patients with periodontal disease; and (11) avoiding malpractice lawsuits and important practical legal aspects.

Reference: Graber TM, Eliades T, Athanasiou AE. Risk Management in Orthodontics: Experts' Guide to Malparctice. Chicago: Quintessence Publishing Co., 2004.