Martyn Cobourne and Andrew DiBiase. Elsevier price £48.99 pp 571 ISBN

9780723438076

This textbook covers both the theoretical and clinical aspects of orthodontics. Although targeted at undergraduate students, orthodontic postgraduate students and orthodontic therapists, it is also a useful reference book for general practitioners. The authors have done well to make the book comprehensive yet compact, such that it is easily transported and can be at hand as a quick reference guide.

The initial chapters deal with the scientific basis of orthodontics, focusing in particular on embryology, craniofacial development, growth and the biology of tooth movement. Next, the authors comprehensively cover aspects of clinical orthodontics, starting with examination and diagnosis, then treatment planning and the use of contemporary removable and fixed appliances. There is one chapter dedicated to orthodontics and orthognathic surgery, and another dedicated to cleft lip and palate and other syndromes affecting the craniofacial region. The authors end with a very basic introduction to evidence-based orthodontics.

The presentation and layout of this textbook is excellent with hundreds of high quality illustrations and photographs used to visually portray the written descriptions contained within the text.

What sets this book apart from the others in the same field, in my opinion, is the clever use of boxes and tables embedded within the chapters to communicate key points and topics to the reader. There are three main boxes. Firstly, factual green boxes which give the reader succinct key information. The sharpness of the colour draws the eye to these boxes, which supports the statement made earlier about the book being a useful 'quick' reference guide. The second are purple 'discussion' boxes where the authors open discussion with the reader, using references and quoting sources to back up any statements made. Finally, a new addition to the second edition, is the use of blue 'Where is the Evidence?' boxes. These are used to communicate areas where there is relevant evidence available to the content of that chapter.

I feel that due to the clever way in which the authors have written this book they have managed to create a comprehensive and informative textbook, with an interactive element. The book is a pleasure to read and makes learning most interesting.