Dental school has been an interesting experience so far. Never in my life have I been so focused and absorbed in a single cause. Sometimes I feel that I’m living life with blinders on, disregarding what life will be like after graduation or challenges that dentists face today. Recently in a Cariology class we had an interesting discussion on some controversial dental topics, including fluoridated public water and the use of amalgam. For a short period of time, I took my blinders off and began thinking about real life as a dentist. What controversies will I face during my professional career? Will the topics we debate today continue to be discussed 10 years from now?
The Chicago Dental Society recently met to address some of the growing controversies in dentistry today. Questions from the audience were answered by a panel of dental experts, with Dr. Gordon Christensen serving as moderator. Some of the questions that were debated and answered during this meeting are summarized below. Let us know where you stand with these hot dental topics.
If implants are relatively inexpensive to manufacture, why is the fee to the patient so high?
Dr. Low from the University of Florida College of Dentistry shared that “in the last few years, implant companies have seen an increase in net profits of 25% to 30%,” whereas “12% to 13% profit is what you like to see for most dental equipment.” After acknowledging the financial burden each dentist faces, he mentioned that “we are outpacing middle-class America when it comes to them being able to afford dentistry” and that “unless it becomes more affordable, someone else will regulate it.”
Is there a conflict of interest between implant companies and practicing dentists? If so, how will this be addressed? Will dental implants become more affordable as placement becomes more popular among general dentists?
At what point should a tooth be extracted versus leaving it in and placing an endodontic crown?
Dr. Beagle, who practices in Indianapolis, believes that there are many factors in deciding whether or not to extract. “If a patient has a high caries rate, the tooth is severely broken down, and chances of failure are very high, I think we need to start thinking about extracting.” Two other important factors include the experience of the dentist, and whether conservative therapy is appropriate.
What determines whether or not conservative therapy is appropriate? Should a dentist decide treatment based on his/her experience or comfort level?
You can read the full report on this meeting at DrBicuspid.com. Let us know what controversies you think are most pertinent to dentistry today!
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