Orthodontic Know-How
Inside Dentistry provides the latest in endodontics, implantology, periodontics, and more, with in-depth articles, expert videos, and top industry insights.
April 1, 2021
Volume 17, Issue 4, April 2021
Page(s): p. 2
Historically, general practitioners have referred their patients for orthodontic treatment to correct a variety of issues in the absence of other major restorative concerns; however, when misaligned teeth require restoration, many dentists default to more aggressive preparation to achieve the patient's goals. Whether it's about time or other patient preferences, which may not be fully informed, or simply that their restorative paradigm doesn't predominantly feature orthodontics as a tool, this approach does not align with our mission to provide conservative, minimally invasive dentistry. To address this issue, our April cover story examines the benefits of orthodontic-restorative treatment and discusses indications, protocols, resources, and how the use of clear aligners has made adding orthodontics to treatment plans faster and more patient-friendly.
If orthodontics is undeniably the best option, and the patient declines, I do not start the case. I will not compromise my treatment. The patient may not want orthodontics, but that does not mean that he or she won't ultimately accept it if I clearly explain the importance. Esthetics aside, we need to ensure that our patients receive conservative treatments that maximize long-term function. As John C. Kois, DMD, MSD, says, "There is no dentistry better than no dentistry."
Robert C. Margeas, DDS
Editor-in-Chief, Inside Dentistry
Private Practice, Des Moines, Iowa
Adjunct Professor
Department of Operative Dentistry
University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
rmargeas_eic@aegiscomm.com
