Dental Tribune U.S. Edition

COSMETIC TRIBUNE The World’s Cosmetic Dentistry Newspaper · U.S. Edition Caries removal and esthetic direct composite restorations By Ian Shuman, DDS, MAGD BEFORE Fig. 1a: Patient reported with the chief com- plaint of hav- ing cavities in his upper front teeth. When treating a carious lesion, it is critical to identify and remove only infected tooth structure, avoiding the needless removal of healthy tissue. Past techniques were unreliable for the sole removal of diseased tissue; however, current advances have improved both the recogni- tion of what is considered active caries and those methods for its elimination. Research conducted at Temple University has verified that a new instrument made from a unique polymer resin technology is able to remove decay, and unlike car- bides and other burs, is the only rotary cutting instrument that is incapable of cutting healthy tissue. The Smartburs II works because it is harder than decay, but not as hard as healthy dentin. Mode of operation The Smartburs II uses an extraor- dinary concept in blade configura- tion and material structure, allow- ing it to remove carious dentin only, and rendering it incapable of cutting healthy dentinal tissue. By eliminating contact with the dentinal tubules, pain is virtually eliminated. During the removal process, patients have reported only a feel- ing of pressure, thereby eliminat- ing the need for anesthesia. This improvement in clinical efficiency translates into savings of both time and cost and an increase in patient referrals. In cases where the lesion is deep and anesthesia is required, pulp exposure can be greatly reduced, providing safer, more comfortable and effective treatment; making 28 earn AACD accreditation: largest class in history The American Academy of Cos- metic Dentistry (AACD) announced that 28 dental professionals have recently been awarded accredita- tion status — the largest group to be awarded the coveted AACD creden- tial to date. There are only 331 dental pro- fessionals worldwide who have achieved this prestigious honor, having reached this achievement after completing a rigorous creden- tialing process including a written examination, oral examination and the submission of clinical cases for peer-reviewed evaluation. These professionals practice internationally and in the United States. The newly accredited AACD members are shown in the box at right. The accreditation process, which was developed by the AACD and is the world’s most recognized advanced credentialing program, encourages further education, inter- action with like-minded colleagues and the opportunity for professional growth. Accreditation requires dedi- cation to continuing education and responsible patient care. “We are honored to welcome these professionals to the ranks of AACD accredited members,” said Dr. Nils Olson, chairperson for AACD Accreditation. “Accredited dentists and laborato- ry technicians are the most passion- ate and committed dental profes- sionals. Those who have achieved accreditation have improved their skills, acquired new techniques and can provide their patients with bet- ter care and services. “They understand that a smile is more than just an anatomical part, it’s an expression of who their patients are,” Olson added. The 28 newly accredited den- tal professionals will receive their recognition and award at a special ceremony during the 27th Annual AACD Scientific Session, to be held May 18–21 in Boston. For more information about AACD accreditation, visit www.AACD.com/ accreditation. About the AACD The AACD is the world’s largest non-profit member organization dedicated to advancing excellence in comprehensive oral care that combines art and science to opti- mally improve dental health, esthet- ics and function. Composed of more than 6,300 cosmetic dental professionals in 70 countries worldwide, the AACD ful- fills its mission by offering superior educational opportunities, promot- ing and supporting a respected accreditation credential, serving as a user-friendly and inviting forum for the creative exchange of knowl- edge and ideas, and providing accu- rate and useful information to the public and the profession. CT g CT page 2C February 2011 www.dental-tribune.com Vol. 4, No. 2 R. Steven Ballback, DDS Angela Britt, DMD Randall S. Burba, DMD Stephen D. Doan, DMD Juan M. Escobar, CDT Henry F. Evans, DMD Craig P. Goldin, DDS Prashant A. Hatkar, BDS, MDS Ross S. Headley, DDS James C. Hodge, Jr., DDS Gary R. Hubbard, DDS Donald M. Jayne, DDS Michael J. Koczarski, DDS Ryan Langer Gerard J. Lemongello, Jr., DMD Dianna Lenick, DDS Elizabeth L. Lowery, DDS Adamo E. Notarantonio, DDS Jason S. Olitsky, DMD Nicholas J. Pournaras, DMD Denise L. Quitter James D. Salazar, DDS Naoki Ned Shimizu, DDS Robert E. Stafford, DDS Shoji Suruga, CDT Nathalie Vachon, DMD Mark B. Whaley, DDS Barbara Warner Wojdan, CDT Newly awarded AACD accreditation AFTER Fig. 1b: Tis- sue appear- ance after one week.