This book covers the case histories of six individuals and the dental problems they encounter through their lives. Each case is loosely based on a real individual to allow the senior dentistry student to develop an understanding of the many issues they may face in daily clinical practice. Although all the patients featured in the book have problems related to oral and dental diseases, their successful long-term management requires both a profound awareness of modern treatment options and a broad knowledge of law applied to dentistry, the ethics of dental care, plus the psychology and sociology of disease and health-related behaviour.

• In line with current teaching methods, this book takes an holistic approach to patient care
• The cases and oral health outcomes are considered, not only from the standpoint of restorative dentistry, but also from legal, ethical, and psycho-social perspectives so that the reader understands the long-term consequences of poor decision making
• Brings dentistry to life by concentrating on real cases
• Includes explanatory comments from a barrister, a restorative consultant, a psychologist, and a dentist to ensure that all aspects of care are addressed

1. Tilly - a Lancashire mill worker; 2. Josh - a lad with problems; 3. David - a law abiding customer; 4. Kylie - a nervous mum; 5. Robert - a traumatic blow; 6. Jess - the disappearing teeth

Elizabeth J. Kay – Professor of Dental Health Service Research, Turner Dental School, Manchester, UK

Ann C. Shearer – Consultant in Restorative Dentistry, Dundee Dental School, UK

Andrew M. Bridgman – Honorary Lecturer in Law and Ethics for Dentistry, Turner Dental School, Manchester, UK

Gerald M. Humphris – Chair of Health Psychology, Bute Medical School, University of St Andrews, UK

'The study of this book, by any dental practitioner and certainly by anyone new to practice, can be of great benefit. It successfully presents the myriad of psychological and financial considerations which influence the final choice of treatment, by the patient and by the practitioner.'