M. T. Cobourne, P. S. Fleming, A. T. DiBiase, S. Ahmad. UK: Wiley-Blackwell price £59.99; pp 456 ISBN

9781405197793

Written in a case-based format, this book considers a wide variety of orthodontic cases treated mainly in the secondary care setting. There is a logical progression of chapters, however, they are written such that they could also be read in isolation. Each chapter begins by introducing the subject area, followed by a series of relevant cases illustrated with clinical photographs, radiographs and diagrams. The teaching expertise of the authors, four consultant orthodontists, is clear as the cases are well structured with apt questions and answers for the reader to consider. This problem-based approach makes the 11 chapters both easy and interesting to read.

Chapter one introduces clinical examination and outlines the role of cephalometric analysis in treatment planning. Management of the developing dentition is described in the second chapter and the success of appropriate interceptive orthodontic treatment is nicely illustrated with several examples. Chapters three to six are divided into specific malocclusions: Class I, Class II division 1, Class II division 2 and Class III respectively. The reader is guided through the management of each malocclusion in turn, with high quality clinical images and pertinent questions throughout. Chapter seven focuses on problems associated with tooth impaction. Fixed appliances are discussed in Chapter eight, however, I felt that more detail and further explanation would have been beneficial at times. The ninth chapter covers post-treatment stability and the importance of long-term retention. Chapter ten explores orthognathic surgery and is a very interesting read with many fascinating cases. Finally, Chapter 11 considers development of the craniofacial region, another chapter which I feel could be expanded upon in future editions.

Despite some minor typing errors, the text certainly fulfils its aim to 'illustrate contemporary practice using clinical cases and individual examples'. It is thoroughly referenced and I agree with the authors' suggestion that it would be 'of particular benefit for postgraduate orthodontic students preparing for their MSc, MClinDent DDS and Membership examinations in orthodontics'.It covers the salient points of modern orthodontics and would be well used to supplement more theoretical orthodontic textbooks. Although perhaps beyond the scope of that required for the undergraduate curriculum, the text would nevertheless be useful and compelling reading for dental students. Overall it is a well written, illustrated and referenced book that I would recommend to any dental professional with an interest in orthodontics.