Covering All Angles

Jason Mazda

Adhesive dentistry, at its core, brings together multiple elements, including chemistry, physics, and biology. As a result, it is a complex topic. A thorough understanding of not only the latest adhesives themselves but also the available restorative materials, the most effective techniques, and the most relevant clinical research are necessary in order to maximize the benefits of adhesive dentistry for patients. However, these are all fast-evolving areas, so staying up to date can be challenging. For this year's special issue on adhesion, Inside Dentistry spoke with some leading experts about various perspectives and developments, with the goal of helping readers decide how best to apply adhesive materials and techniques in their own offices.

The Experts

Expert: Gary Alex, DMD
Topic: The Latest Developments in Universal Adhesives
Gary Alex, DMD, is a private practitioner in Huntington, New York, who lectures extensively on adhesion and authored the frequently cited 2015 Compendium of Continuing Education in Dentistry article, "Universal Adhesives: The Next Evolution in Adhesive Dentistry?"

Expert: Nathaniel Lawson, DMD, PhD
Topic: 3D Printed Permanent Crown Materials
Nathaniel Lawson, DMD, PhD, is the director of the Division of Biomaterials at the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Dentistry. He has published more than 200 articles, abstracts, book chapters, and periodicals related to dental materials.

Expert: Jed M. Best, DDS, MS
Topic: Glass Ionomers
Jed M. Best, DDS, MS, practiced pediatric dentistry for 42 years in New York, New York, and he currently holds academic appointments as a clinical professor at the Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine, an associate professor at the Columbia University College of Dental Medicine, and an instructor at the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Dentistry.

Expert: Amanda N. Seay, DDS
Topic: The Esthetic Impact
Amanda N. Seay, DDS, is the founder, CEO, and clinical director of Expertise Dental in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina. She is also a fellow of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, Inside Dentistry's restorative section editor, and the director of outreach and engagement for the Seattle Study Club.

Expert: Peter Pizzi, MDT, CDT
Topic: The Laboratory Perspective
Peter Pizzi, MDT, CDT, is the owner of Pizzi Dental Studio in Staten Island, New York. He is also the editor-in-chief of Inside Dental Technology and an adjunct instructor at the New York University College of Dentistry.