In Pursuit of Evidence-Based Dentistry

We just got back from a very exciting and invigorating continuing education course on minimally-invasive state of the art dental techniques. We spent last week at the Texas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies learning from the pioneers of cutting edge dental practice.

Even though we graduated from dental school with the most current training almost 6 years ago, there is always something more to learn, and we strive to be the very best for our patient family. Not only does this assure our skills and talents are sharp, but it excites us about practicing in this day and age.

That is why we are looking at introducing several new techniques and technologies over the next few months, ones which will minimize loss of healthy tooth structure, prevent breakdown of tooth-protecting enamel, disinfect oral wounds and lesions, and speed up healing following surgical procedures.

One such technique is the relatively new use of air abrasion instead of a dental drill to remove cavities. This innovative system allows us to conserve more of the patient's natural tooth structure and reduce the risk of enamel micro-fracturing. Because the equipment does not produce vibration or heat, patients require NO anesthetic. Air abrasion is quieter, faster, and more comfortable than the dental drill.

A second is the use of ozone therapy for disinfection of infectious lesions.