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Inside Dentistry
Nov/Dec 2009
Volume 5, Issue 10

From the Editor

Gerard Kugel, DMD, MS, PhD

This Month,
our cover feature presentation reviews the manner in which the term biomimetics is used in the dental industry to describe materials and techniques for re-creating biological tissues, as well as to differentiate those clinical protocols that are respectful of natural structures and produce a mimicked biological effect. Although different, the uses of the term biomimetics share a philosophy that values what is inherently natural and biological.

A Different Kind of Dentistry Awaits Us. Among the perspectives presented this month is one that views the current way of restoring teeth as xenodontic—using foreign materials to replace and repair what’s missing or diseased. As biomimetic materials are developed, perfected, and introduced for dentistry, the way we practice dentistry will change. Not only will we continue to emphasize prevention, but we’ll look to remineralize and regrow tooth structure when faced with caries and disease. We’ll also be able to realize a practice in which restorations may have the ability to repair themselves and, therefore, potentially not need replacement.

Conserve, Preserve…and Reserve Your Judgment. Just as the paradigm in dentistry has shifted from a drill-and-fill model to one of medical management, so too will a shift take place in what type of materials are used for the repair and treatment of oral lesions and diseases. However, as always, it will be imperative for dental professionals to evaluate the validity of the scientific evidence that’s presented in support of a given biomimetic product or technique. Such scrutiny shouldn’t be cut short simply because the material is biological and naturally derived.

Support the Science, the Development, and the Dissemination. All of the efforts underway in science and research will only benefit the profession and our patients if we are aware of them, understand how to apply them, and have clinically proven products that fully harness the power of the innovative processes that they represent. Biomimetics encompasses many areas of oral health, from teeth to alveolar bone, saliva to gingival tissues. At the dental school, research facility, and manufacturer level, support is needed to ensure that scientific discoveries are translated into clinical applications.

We hope you enjoy this issue and find that it helps to broaden your understanding of biomimetics—both in terms of the scientific research that is taking place and in terms of how clinical protocols are being modified to reflect a biomimetic philosophy. Please send us your feedback to letters@insidedentistry.net. Your thoughts, opinions, and reactions motivate us to continually improve our clinical content and coverage of the issues shaping our profession. Thank you for reading and for your continued support.

With warm regards,

Gerard Kugel, DMD, MS, PhD
Associate Dean for Research
Tufts University School of Dental Medicine
Boston, MA
gkugel@aegiscomm.com

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