J. Dent. 1994; 22: 127-l 28
Book reviews Section
Editor: P. N. Hirschmann
Magnetic Resonance of the Temporomandibular Joint. E. Palacios, G. E. Valvassori, M. Shannon and C. F. Reed. Pp. 132. 1990. Stuttgart, Georg Thieme Verlag. Hardback, DM 98.00. Over the last few years there has been a proliferation of books about the temporomandibular joint and its clinical problems. This volume, produced by ten experts from various centres in the USA, is principally devoted to imaging; the title is also somewhat misleading as the eight chapters also contain aspects of diagnosis, tomography, arthrography and management. The book commences with a brief chapter on ‘clinical considerations’, essentially a guide to history-taking and examination, consisting of example patient questionnaires and history forms. While somewhat superficial for the clinician, it is probably sufficiently detailed to acquaint a general radiologist with the essentials of the subject. The second chapter deals with arthrography. This is an excellent summary of the subject, although the authors limit themselves to describing the dual-space singlecontrast technique. CT of the TMJ follows. Most authorities now believe that CT is inferior to other imaging modalities for imaging the soft tissues of the joint. In contrast, Dr Bell presents a spirited argument in favour of direct sagittal CT, citing cost, low morbidity and acceptable radiation levels as justification. The bulk of the text is concerned with magnetic resonance imaging. A useful chapter on the physical principles is followed by an excellent description of MR anatomy of the TMJ and a superbly illustrated section on histopathology. I was particularly impressed by the 46-page section on internal derangement and other pathology, which would itself justify the purchase of the book due to the quality of the images and accompanying line diagrams. Just what is needed by a novice radiologist. This book is ideal for the dentist or oral surgeon with a special interest in the TMJ and for radiologists working with MRI who may be asked to perform TMJ examinations. I have no hesitation in recommending it for purchase. K. Horner.
Bonded Ceramic Inlays. J.-F. Roulet and S. Herder. Pp. 103. Quintessence. Softback, f45.00
199 1. New Malden,
This is an interesting practical guide to bonded ceramic inlay technique, written by acknowledged experts in the field. Many of the clinical illustrations they use are taken from a teaching videotape they and others developed. The quality of the clinical illustrations is therefore not of the usual standard associated with Quintessence books, but nevertheless, the detail and realism is such that their o 1994 Butterworth-Heinemann 0300-5712/94/020127-02
Ltd.
educational value is high. The book can be divided into three sections. The first 30 pages give a concise and relevant review of the tooth-coloured restorative materials available to the practitioner for Class II restorations in molar teeth. Not surprisingly, there is an emphasis on the ceramic and glass ceramic inlay systems, although comparative data are also given for both direct composite restorations and composite inlay techniques. The advantages of all approaches to the aesthetic Class II restoration are discussed and some comparison is made with cuspal coverage cast gold restorations. This review is worthy of study in its own right and will guide the interested reader to much useful information. It should be noted that many of the references cited are in German journals. The second section gives a detailed account of the clinical and laboratory procedures associated with the provision of a cast glass ceramic inlay in a premolar tooth. The various stages of cavity preparation, recording the impression, technical procedures and luting techniques are described and illustrated in detail. This section would prove an excellent guide for the practitioner wishing to embark upon this technique for the first time. The final section provides a useful summary of the clinical technique and describes some of the materials available on the American market for use with glass ceramic restorations. This book is interesting reading for those embarking upon the use of ceramic inlay restorations and will provide a useful basis for reference in the future. A. W. G. Walls
Radiographic Interpretation in Orofacial Disease. S. 13.Porter and C. Scully. Pp. 108. 199 1. Oxford, Oxford University Press. Softback, f 19.50. Radiographic Interpretation in Orofacial Disease is a stimulating book and an excellent aid in training undergraduate and postgraduate students in the interpretation of intra- and extraoral radiographs. A collection of plain radiographic and CT images, arranged in the challenging form of questions and answers, is presented. Additional information, such as the history, physical findings and medical investigations is given when appropriate, motivating the reader to consider them during the process of interpretation, and serves both to increase the interest, and improve his/her diagnostic skills. Students will find this book useful as, in many cases, examinations in radiographic interpretation are carried out in a similar manner. A wide variety of problems and interesting clinical conditions, ranging from dental anatomy and diseases to general systemic diseases affecting the jaws, are presented. The discussion in the ‘Answers’ section is valuable. It would have been more beneficial if the book was arranged more systematically by specific topic. In addition, more emphasis on