Article
Adhesive dentistry
In the context of COVID-19, non-aerosol dentistry seems to have become the now recommended pathway for dental treatment and, in consequence, conservative, non-destructive, adhesive dentistry will very probably see a major renaissance.
I started using bonding for wear cases, where appropriate, some 25+ years ago and have found it an extremely useful tool to help patients to maintain tooth substance. When I used to teach at Guy's, one of my mantras always was: remember tooth tissue does not grow back! Therefore, think (and plan) before you cut and explore all other options first.
Following that simple principle I have had, and am still having, a very happy career in dentistry, which I have much enjoyed and have spent heading for 40 years in practice – so far without a single medico-legal case…..touch wood.
Having worked in central London throughout my career, first on Shaftsbury Avenue, then for the last 30+ years in my own Practice near Chancery Lane, I have weathered IRA bombs, 9/11, Swine Flu, King's Cross Bombs, stock market downturns. I worked through the emergence of HIV and did carry on seeing my patients if they developed issues – always very carefully and following what I felt was the safest route, and I intend to do the same in the current crisis (although I feel that the Government's lack of practical guidance must leave many of us wondering how best to care for our patients).
Dentistry will, I feel sure, adapt and this old dinosaur will adapt too. Maybe COVID-19 will bring us back to the more health-orientated maintenance style approach and away from the ‘Dental Sales’ mentality, which seems so far spread these days and often results in destructive treatment, with high maintenance requirements and, often, long-term diminished levels of dental health.
I always say, that any dentistry that one needs to sell to a patient, the patient clearly does not need. A dentist should recommend and advise, not sell. Adhesive dentistry does not need to be sold!