The Human Touch

We are undoubtedly plugged into a modern era of dentistry, in which technology proliferates. While this is certainly a welcomed enhancement to the care that we deliver, it can also cripple us if we do not adhere to our principles. After all, we are both master clinicians and competent communicators, able to efficiently diagnose and confidently treat disease. These basics are the promises to care for our patients with the human touch and human intelligence that we learned in dental school.

On the cover, we profile an Alpha Omega International Dental Fraternity article by Pinhas Adar, a dental technician who emphasizes that amid the proliferating technology at our disposal that we remember a driving force—our patients, who rely on us to use our humanity, intelligence, and artistry. These qualities and talents are fundamentally unique to us as humans, and as healthcare professionals, we must keep them at the forefront of our care. A growing faction of technicians and dentists has been particularly concerned about maintaining our standards of esthetics and function as the use of machines in restorations becomes more common.

On a sad note, we have lost an incredible dentist. It’s been said that the measure of a man’s life is not in how he died, but in how he lived; not in what he gained but in what he gave and in the lives of those he’s touched. Dr. Cy Evian was one of those men who lived life to the fullest, gave selflessly, and touched the lives of his students, colleagues, family, and friends.

Cy was born, raised, and educated in South Africa before immigrating to the United States with his wife and unborn child. His ambition to set a higher standard for himself and his family brought him to the University of Pennsylvania where he studied periodontics. He worked hard and eventually fulfilled his dream of opening his own state-of-the-art practice while teaching at Penn, New York University, University of Maryland, and Temple University. Cy had a passion to educate, and he encouraged his students to reach their utmost potential to become the finest professionals and technically advanced practitioners. Cy was a sought-after lecturer both nationally and internationally. A great teacher and a tireless educator, he also published extensively in the field of periodontics and implant dentistry.

I had the privilege working with Cy on many endeavors. But most importantly, I was honored to have him as a friend. I saw and experienced firsthand his dedication to our profession while always exuding humor and kindness toward others.

Although Cy was passionate about dentistry, his main devotion was to his family. While writing this piece, I came across a quotation that Cy wrote regarding his philosophy of life. It said, “Work hard and play hard, know when to work and when to play, and never mix the two.” This is great advice.

The Evian family has lost a caring, loving husband, father, and grandfather. The dental community has lost a powerful advocate and mentor. Cy Evian will be missed but never forgotten.

Sincerely,

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