Fixed prosthodontics

  • H. W. Anselm Wiskott
UK: Quintessence price £90.00; pp 768 ISBN 9781850972082 | ISBN: 978-1-8509-7208-2

Written by an American-qualified dentist practising in Switzerland, this is a first edition text, which is comprehensive and easy to read. Although addressed to dental students, it also serves as an excellent resource for postgraduates, general practitioners and those with an interest in restorative dentistry.

The book contains 20 chapters that give the reader a broad summary of fixed prosthodontics and the necessary basic science. Early chapters (1-6) introduce the prosthodontic environment and the oral environment in relation to anatomy, pathophysiology, aesthetic factors, mastication, occlusion, materials and dental structures. Treatment planning is then discussed (chapter 7); the remainder of the book is then organised under the headings 'Preprosthetic phase' and 'Prosthetic phase and follow-up'. This layout allows the reader to learn the procedure(s) for the provision of fixed prosthetic restorations sequentially and methodically. In addition to the strategic, operational, and technical levels of prosthodontics, the interdisciplinary relationships between periodontics, orthodontics, operative dentistry and implantology are also discussed under these headings.

Each chapter establishes the relevant scientific background and then builds towards its clinical applications, promoting an understanding of the concepts implemented at each stage of treatment. Both this and the sequence in which the chapters are arranged help introduce the reader to the concepts and terminology in an orderly fashion - something the author aimed to achieve. His vast clinical experience is evident throughout the text, but the style of writing helps simplify the concepts and the clinical stages which less experienced students and young dentists could potentially find difficult.

There are sections that document the historical background of certain topics. Some of these may no longer be clinically relevant, but they can be of interest and show how the profession has evolved should the reader find it appealing.

One of the book's great strengths is its numerous black and white, schematic illustrations which clarify the principles and clinical situations within the text further. Although they are a simplification of reality, they highlight the elements of fixed prosthodontic work in terms of their scientific basis and clinical adaptation. The book also contains radiographs, diagrams, charts, graphs, tables and clinical photographs; perhaps more photographs would be welcome in future editions.

I would highly recommend this reader-friendly book to students, teachers and restorative dentists.