From the Editor: Experts in Mouth Improvement

Most of us have seen myriad episodes of “This Old House.” Usually, Norm Abram or Kevin O’Connor (or in the original shows, Bob Vila) and friends are called in to assess and restore an old, typically dilapidated home that was perhaps victimized by years of neglect or maybe damaged in a storm of some sort. It is always fascinating to watch the transformation of the beat-up, run-down house into a sparkling, attractive, functional dwelling.

The dictionary defines restore as “to bring back to a former, original, or normal condition,” or “to bring back to a state of health, soundness, or vigor.” Another definition is simply “to give back.” While it is certainly true that dentists are in the healthcare business, it could be said that, like the construction gang on the popular TV show, dentists are also in the restoration business. “This Old Mouth,” if you will.

Restorative dentistry thrives on new materials and innovative techniques. In this issue of Compendium, the focus is on dental materials and how they are being used to improve restorative outcomes. One CE article highlights the emerging category of universal adhesives. The author’s thorough review of this topic examines the origin, chemistry, strengths, weaknesses, and clinical relevance of this new genre of dental adhesives. Our second CE article discusses ceramic systems and processing techniques available today in dentistry.

In a variety of case reports, clinical material reviews, and a product-in-practice report, this thematic issue also delves into other key topics that are impacting today’s practice of restorative dentistry. These include the use of veneered zirconia, RMGI liners, a new bioactive dental repair product, and more, as well as a review of current provisional materials.

We hope you’ll find this issue on materials to be a valuable resource as you continue to grow in your practice. If it helps you restore a patient’s mouth back to its former glory, then we’ll be well pleased. Please drop us a line at lrose@aegiscomm.com with any questions, comments, or suggestions.

Sincerely,

Louis F. Rose, DDS, MD
Editor-In-Chief

Elizabeth M. Bakeman, DDS
Editorial Advisory Board Member
Guest Editor