Considerations for Orthodontic Treatment in Elderly Patients

BACKGROUND: The growth of elderly population increased the need for oral health care. Elderly patients with poor teeth alignment needs more attention with orthodontic treatment METHODS: Elderly patients visiting department of orthodontics, Kangdong Sacred Heart Hospital between 2000-2004 were treated with fixed appliances in one or both dental arches. Treatment plans were different from than that of younger patients and included uncommon and strategic removals of teeth and prosthesis. RESULTS: There was decrease in orthodontic treatment forces with increasing age, and the observation made from this study was favorable in the patients' as well as in the orthodontist's, point of view. It was possible to move the remaining teeth considerably, and the retention was made with various fixed appliances. CONCLUSIONS: Orthodontic treatment is not limited by patient age. However, it is wise not to extend treatment goals too far beyond the patients' objective needs

The first year study on the marginal bone loss after the implant installation

40-years old) was 1.80+/-0.52mm and 1.51+/-0.58mm in younger age(<40-years old). The period between L2-and L3 showed significant changes in marginal bone oss(p<0.05). In conclusion, the marginal bone loss in L2-L3 period was most severe. Thus, the intensive care and follow-up in this period will be required to prevent excessive bone loss.

Reconstruction using mandibular horizontal distraction osteogenesis and implant prosthesis in mandibular deficiency: a case report

Distraction osteogenesis is a biologic process in which new bone is formed between bone fragments being separated by a tractional force. This technique has the advantage of initiating new bone growth without bone transplantation and promoting the growth of soft tissue. Mandibular distraction osteogenesis has shown to be effective to treat congenital or acquired mandibular hypoplasias. On the basis of positive results with implant-supported prostheses, the use of implants in the distracted site can significantly help stabilize the prosthesis. We obtained good result in the patient with mandibular deficiency due to trauma, who have been reconstructed with distraction osteogenesis and implant. We report our experiences with literature view.