Never a Dull Day

One of the things that keeps the job of “dental practitioner” interesting is that every patient is different. Each one’s needs are unique, and we can never be quite certain what intriguing case will walk through the door next. Whether you’re a GP or specialist, if you have a full slate of patients lined up, your day likely will be anything but dull.

Thankfully, there are fundamental guidelines to help practitioners navigate the range of cases they may encounter from day to day. Our first CE article this issue offers such tangible decision-making guidance. In a discussion on sinus augmentation, the authors note that platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) provides a number of biological advantages for the regeneration of the poorly vascularized sinus cavity. The question facing clinicians is whether to use this platelet concentrate alone or in combination with a bone grafting material. As the article states, the answer essentially depends on the size of the sinus cavity. This article proposes parameters for the use of PRF with or without a bone graft in these cases.

In our second CE article, we see how patients with salivary gland hypofunction, a condition quite common in older individuals, may present with a wide variety of clinical signs and symptoms. The author emphasizes the importance of providing individualized treatment and offers diagnosis and management strategies, including how to conduct objective testing.

This month’s Kois Center Case demonstrates dental therapy for a patient who underwent hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. The article depicts how occlusal palliation was provided to the patient and stresses the need for collaboration with the patient’s medical team. Another interesting case report illustrates autotransplantation, a little-used but potentially effective procedure that can help delay the need for implant placement.

Additionally, we feature a review of tranexamic acid as a hemostatic adjunct in dentistry, for use when treating a warfarin-anticoagulated patient. Also, our Roundtable highlights a discussion of endodontic treatment: pulpotomy/pulp-capping versus pulpectomy. In dentistry there is rarely a dull day. When clinicians face tough decisions or rare cases, preparation is a valuable asset. Compendium is here to help you prepare to make the right choices.

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