Orthodontics and Periodontology in Children and Adolescents

This volume arises from the synthesis of pure clinical interceptive orthodontic therapy and classical periodontal and surgical treatment with the orthodontically and periodontally guided protocol in adults developed by the authors. The periodontal approach in diagnosis, treatment planning and orthodontic mechanics in children and adolescents represents a revolution that must become an integral part of daily orthodontic practice. The book addresses major periodontal pathologies in paediatric and adolescent patients and highlights the importance of periodontal screening to enable early detection of both dental and systemic issues. The integrated evaluation of treatment risk factors — fundamental in periodontal therapy — is incorporated into the treatment plan for children through the p-OPRA (paediatric-Ortho-Perio-Risk Assessment) protocol. From an orthodontic-periodontal standpoint, the management of teeth at risk of retention is explored from a diagnostic and interceptive perspective, followed by therapeutic strategies. The text details all stages of soft tissue management in the surgical approach to impacted teeth, including incisors, canines (most frequently affected), premolars and molars. Additionally, numerical anomalies such as agenesis and supernumerary teeth are examined, along with rehabilitation challenges in light of the periodontal approach and the growth of young patients. These concepts are illustrated through a wide range of clinical cases. Finally, the book provides a comprehensive, orthodontically and periodontally guided approach to the resolution of transverse, sagittal and vertical facial orthopaedic discrepancies, outlining their clinical management and treatment strategies in children and adolescents in the view of their adult ortho-perio health stability.