What’s Best for the Patient

Thanks to the ever-present relentless development of technology, the practice of dentistry is perhaps more exciting today than ever before. With such technological gadgets as CAD/CAM, CBCT, optical scanners, intraoral cameras, 3D printing, and more at their disposal, dentists are able to offer their patients a level of care that far surpasses treatments of the past.

Yet, even with an office filled with high-tech devices, materials, and equipment, dentists still must constrain their treatment decision-making to what is best for the patient. Although "treatment A" may represent the latest trend and utilize the newest procedure, depending on the patient's situation and considering all the factors involved in the case, "treatment B," though not as revolutionary, may be the better choice.

This approach is demonstrated in our first continuing education (CE) article in this issue. In it, the author discusses the importance of treatment planning for patients with a failing dentition. While fixed and removable options may both be available to the patient, factors such as financial limitations may influence the clinician's management strategy of the case. This article discusses keys to evaluating and treating patients seeking dual-arch implant treatment options and highlights how different patients have different priorities.

Another way of doing what's best for the patient in dentistry today is by coordinating efforts with other specialists. In our second CE article, orthodontic therapy is utilized to enhance the success of orthognathic surgery. Orthodontics, both presurgically and postsurgically, along with the surgical procedure itself, may help manage dentofacial deformities. The authors provide recommendations for case diagnosis, presurgical preparation, and postsurgical management of surgical-orthodontic cases.

A coordinated approach is also seen in our Kois Center Case this month, as orthodontics, periodontal therapy, and restorative dentistry were combined in the treatment of a worn dentition. Rather than simply repairing the patient's teeth to help her regain her smile, the clinician worked to determine the causes of the excessive wear, leading to a conservative restorative treatment plan.

Taking the time to diagnose and properly manage each case helps ensure that every patient will receive the treatment that is best for them. Please enjoy this issue, and visit compendiumlive.com for more clinical content on finding ideal options for patients.

Sincerely,

Markus B. Blatz, DMD, PhD
Editor-in-Chief
mblatz@aegiscomm.com