Orthodontics: History and Clinical Examination

Vocabulary flashcards covering the introductory concepts of orthodontic assessment, database collection, patient history, and diagnostic planning from Lecture 1.

Purpose of an Orthodontic Assessment

To gather information about the patient in order to produce an accurate orthodontic diagnosis.

Decision Making in Orthodontics

A process requiring the establishment of a prioritized problem list before considering treatment options.

Elective Treatment Consideration

The principle that because orthodontic treatment is almost always elective, assessment must identify potential risks as well as benefits, allowing the patient to make an informed decision on whether to proceed.

Elements of the Database

The three components used to assemble patient diagnostic information: taking a full history, undertaking a clinical examination, and collecting appropriate records.

Orthodontic Diagnostic Process Flowchart

A schematic diagram showing how the questionnaire/interview, clinical exam (including oral health findings and classification), and diagnostic records combine into the database to yield the prioritized problem list and diagnosis.

Case History

The information gathered from the patient, parent, or guardian to aid in the overall diagnosis of the case; includes personal details, chief complaint, and past and present history.

Patient Name Recording

Documenting the patient's name for communication, identification, and adding a personal touch that arouses familiarity and comfort with a positive psychological effect.

Age and Date of Birth in Orthodontics

Essential patient data used in treatment planning to address specific orthodontic issues at appropriate stages of dental development.

Interceptive Orthodontics

An orthodontic approach highlighted as often being more effective for children with developing dental problems.