Dental Principles for Plastic Surgery

Learning Objectives: After studying this article, the participant should be able to: 1. Understand the relevant dental anatomy, chronicity, nomenclature, and diagnostic imaging. 2. Identify dental pathologies, including congenital abnormalities and dentofacial developmental disorders. 3. Review management strategies for dental infections or trauma. 4. Highlight the role of orthodontics in orthognathic and craniofacial reconstructive surgery. Summary: Craniofacial surgery requires a thorough understanding of dental pathology and basic orthodontic principles to treat patients presenting with complex congenital disorders, trauma, and maxillomandibular discrepancies. Despite the close relationship between dentistry, orthodontics, and plastic surgery that dates to the late 1800s, there is a dearth of formalized education of basic dental and orthodontic concepts within plastic surgery curricula. This article outlines basic principles of dental anatomy, dental anomalies, and technology managed by orthodontists to optimize the multidisciplinary approach to craniomaxillofacial pathology.