The Evolution Continues

Throughout my career, I’ve seen many evolutions in dentistry—how we perceive and render patient care, the treatments we use, the tools at our disposal. In recent years, minimally invasive dentistry has driven much of the research and development in oral healthcare. In particular, to support efforts to preserve natural tooth structure longer, attention has focused on improving adhesion and resin bonding—disturbing less to preserve more.

Dental manufacturers supply us with state-of-the-art materials, but it’s our workmanship, acumen, and craftsmanship that determine the final outcomes for our patients. Therefore, we must continually learn as much as we can. With more of our aging patients retaining their natural teeth longer, we owe it to them, as well as to all of our patients, to know the latest innovations in dental materials science. While implants and full-coverage restorations are critically important treatment protocols, these therapies should remain options for severe cases. Modern patient care dictates that our ethical obligation is to practice minimally invasive dentistry.

This Annual Materials Issue of Compendium of Continuing Education in Dentistry features one of the most renowned researchers in restorative sciences, Markus B. Blatz, DMD, PhD, as guest editor. Among his many academic responsibilities, Dr. Blatz has faithfully served on Compendium’s editorial advisory board, presenting his invaluable perspectives on materials science and adhesion dentistry. He is Chair and Professor of Preventive and Restorative Sciences at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. We are indebted to him for his passion and devotion to the field and for spearheading this excellent presentation in this issue of the journal.

Dr. Blatz curated content from leading researchers, garnering their insights on the latest in dental materials research. This special issue provides a unique glimpse into current developments in this field and will help readers acuminate their scientific knowledge. We hope you enjoy reading it as much as we relished assembling it.

As always, I welcome your comments and feedback.

Sincerely,
Louis F. Rose, DDS, MD
Editor-In-Chief
lrose@aegiscomm.com

"Modern patient care dictates that our ethical obligation is to practice minimally invasive dentistry"