Reaching New Heights

Whether they are general practitioners or specialists, or recent graduates or dentists in the twilight of their careers, so many clinicians in our profession are trying to learn about the different styles of implant dentistry and their associated techniques for planning, placement, and restoration. At this point in time, we are likely to see a large number of revisions of full-arch implant-supported restorations over the next 5 to 15 years, and this next wave will present opportunities to utilize more exotic implant techniques, from zygomatic and pterygoid to trans-sinus, transnasal, and beyond. Simultaneously, digital dentistry will finally mature in terms of specific applications for implant dentistry. The opportunities are almost endless.

Being associated with a number of well-respected groups within the field of implant dentistry is a blessing in this ongoing pursuit of knowledge. The goal in compiling Inside Dentistry's 2023 special issue on implants was to provide dentists with the opportunity to "listen in" on some high-level conversations and see some of the most advanced, authentic, and professional work being done on the cutting edge. The voices featured in this issue are all leaders in their own areas, so introducing their viewpoints and their work to Inside Dentistry's audience is an honor.

Since the days of Brånemark's early work, our profession has sought to understand the various facets of implant dentistry—from bone and soft-tissue needs to how implant placements relate to occlusion  and other factors affecting success. The modern-day implant dentist, however, will have a different kind of mountain to climb in the future. We now have a very strong understanding of the biologic workings of single implants, which have so many landmarks and a defined box in which to put the abutment and restoration, so the remaining questions to answer are related to performing full-mouth rehabilitations. Can we potentially improve them with more advanced techniques? Can we use technology differently to maximize efficiency? So many tools and techniques are available to the modern-day implant dentist, and our hope is that some of those featured in this issue will be useful to dentists of all skill levels who are seeking to round out their development.

Christopher W. Barrett, DDS
Guest Editor
Inside Dentistry
Private Practice
Scottsdale, Arizona

Robert C. Margeas, DDS
Editor-in-Chief, Inside Dentistry
Private Practice
Des Moines, Iowa
Adjunct Professor
Department of Operative Dentistry
University of Iowa
Iowa City, Iowa
robert.margeas@broadcastmed.com