Issue 3.4

Abstract: The use of so-called “distalization” mechanics to correct Class II malocclusions is a common treatment modality. This type of mechanotherapy is typically used in patients with maxillary skeletal and/or dentoalveolar protrusion. Most traditional approaches to molar distalization require considerable patient compliance to be successful. More recently, the subjectivity and problems of predicting patient behavior have led many clinicians to devise appliances that minimized reliance on the patient and which are under the control of the clinician. A distant relative of the pendulum appliance is the Distal Jet, as another method of distalizing molars without active patient compliance. This appliance has many features in common with the pendulum appliance, but it has two distinct advantages. First, the upper molars are distalized without the lingual movement that occurs with the pendulum appliance. Second, the Distal Jet can be converted to a Nance holding arch easily after molar distalization is completed. Complete sequences of Class II correction after molar distalization in growing as in adult patients are described.

Abstract: Gli autori mettono luce le gravi carenze diagnostiche e classificative oggi presenti in ortodonzia, attribuendo ciò alle peculiarità di questa disciplina medica. A partire da questa base e con argomentazioni aggiuntive descrivono l’attuale disordine metodologico e operativo che condizionano teoria e pratica ortodontica. Propongono dunque una soluzione originale al problema con l’adozione di modelli cognitivi di derivazione matematica definiti neurali per la loro analogia con la struttura biologica del sistema nervoso centrale. Da qui è nato un programma che, attualmente, è ancora in fase sperimentale, ma che è già in grado di simulare correttamente il ragionamento diagnostico clinico. Vengono così introdotti in ortodonzia i concetti di riproducibilità, ripetibilità e falsificazione propri delle scienze più mature.

Abstract: Thirty lateral cephalometric radiographs were assessed using each of three methods: manual tracing, using a digitising tablet and on-screen digitisation of the image of the cephalogram using a computer “mouse”. There were significant differences between the three methods, with the on-screen digitising having advantages, in particular regarding the time taken to enter data, ability to enhance and enlarge portions of the image and ease of producing customised analyses.