JOHN C. BENNETT, FDS, DOrth RCS
2nd edition. 109 pages. 110 illustrations. $99. 2010.
Le Grande Publishing, 43 Stapleton Road, Orton Southgate, Peterborough PE2 6PD, United Kingdom.
(44) 1733-235-234; www.legrandepublishing.com.
Dr. John C. Bennett has become a household name in orthodontics, not only for his five textbooks and numerous articles, but also for his work with Drs. Richard P. McLaughlin and Hugo J. Trevisi in designing the McLaughlin Bennett Trevisi (MBT) system. The experience and knowledge gained in creating the MBT philosophy translates well into his most recent textbook, Fundamentals of Orthodontic Bracket Selection: A User Guide. Because the initial edition was a paperback orientation handbook published only in the Middle East, this will be the first chance for most orthodontists to obtain the material.
As Dr. Bennett clearly articulates in this book, not all brackets are created equal, and many perform much better clinically than others. In the author's words, "The aim of this book is to set the record straight, discuss the misconceptions of the entire 'self-ligating saga', and to revisit some o the values and principles of the orthodontic specialty."
The 11 chapters pragmatically break down the components of bracket design while detailing the causes and effects of modifications. One of the most valuable aspects of the book is the rationale used to develop the MBT prescription. In-depth discussions of tip, torque, rotation control, bracket thickness, slot size, and friction will help clinicians evaluate their current bracket systems in terms of ideal treatment outcomes, patient comfort, and esthetics. Although the book contains no case presentations, it does provide 12 recommendations as a user guide to selecting the most appropriate bracket for each patient.
Overall, this text would be a great asset to orthodontists and students seeking a fundamental knowledge of bracket design, especially for those currently using a conventional (not self-ligating) preadjusted appliance system.
MICHAEL MERU, DDS
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