I just had the chance to sit in on an implant technique course. It was a course that I originally took 15 years ago, but as we all know, the world of implant dentistry has changed a little. Or I should say that my implant dentistry has changed a lot. It was nice to see how there have been some changes in techniques, but nothing I would describe as revolutionary. Some tweaking of principles and materials from years of experience.

There was a surgeon there who was the sponsor of the event. Very nice guy and knowledgeable, but a not a big believer of guided placement. For routine placement, the additional expense of a guide would make the patient decline treatment and irritate the referring dentist. The surgeon didn’t want to get tied into a specific location because the bone might not be good there.

There was a lab guy there who was also knowledgeable. Gave great insight on the larger cases. When we were diagnosing, he was very familiar with the principles of facially generated treatment planning. He was able to answer every question but one, and that one was from me: “What is an Implant handling fee?” He offered an explanation and I told him it didn’t make any sense. I told him it is a remnant of times past when dentists didn’t know any better. Implant dentistry is not rocket science; there is no reason to be intimidated.

I am not saying that all the tried-and-true methods that have given us success in the past need to be forgotten, but as with most things in life, we need to see how the technological advances of the day can make our lives better.

Calendars with pencils, pegboards and card files, film and diptanks – I can’t imagine going back. Digital imaging and computerized practice management software have allowed us to streamline the practice.

Shouldn’t dentists have the same opinion on technology and implants?

People are going crazy over curing lights that save a few seconds, bulk fill materials that may save a minute or two. Why wouldn’t people be interested in making their implant dentistry easier and more predictable? Know how the bone is before dropping a flap, know where the implant should be placed for an ideal restoration, be able to have the temp prepared prior to the surgery, and be able to produce perfect custom abutments designed for the idea restoration. The advantages are huge; in the words of a popular commercial – PRICELESS.

Peter do you suggest an implant technique course that is beneficial and more geared towards the cerec and sirona cadcam. Thqanks for your input.

There isn't one specific course. I have taken a whole range from various manufacturers. Zimmer, 3I, Biohorizons, Megagen.
I have also taken level 6 @ the scottsdale center which covers more of the cerec - galileos integration material.

Implantology is not a static topic, its constantly changing and you need to keep up with the changes by taking continuing ed to stay on the leading edge