Dentistry a la carte: in-office CAD/CAM technology.

This article examines the differences among four in-office computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing restorative technologies. Two acquisition media systems, 3M ESPE's Lava COS and Cadent's iTero, are compared and contrasted. Additionally, two acquisition and manufacturing media, Sirona's CEREC AC and D4D's E4D, are examined. Image acquisition techniques and cast fabrication methodologies are compared between Lava COS and iTero. In addition, image acquisition, cast fabrication, and restoration fabrication methodologies are discussed as related to CEREC AC and E4D. Strategies for computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing incorporation into practice are explored.

Realigning biomedical science instruction in predoctoral curricula: a proposal for change.

Currently in North America, there is an active dialogue going on about the state of predoctoral dental education and the need for curriculum change, innovation, and the adoption of contemporary, competency-based educational models. At the institutional level, curriculum committees struggle with requests from faculty to add new content to an overburdened didactic and clinic schedule. This article will describe potential solutions centering on the role and scope of the biomedical sciences in predoctoral dental education. The authors propose that dental educators and institutions reconsider the current admission prerequisites and curriculum content of the biomedical sciences in predoctoral programs. The proposed changes are intended to eliminate content redundancy between undergraduate and predoctoral dental education by integration of the biomedical sciences--in particular, biochemistry, microbiology, and physiology--into other clinically oriented coursework and learning experiences in the curriculum based on a pathophysiology model that fosters students' comprehension of the etiology of oral and systemic diseases encountered by the general dental practitioner. The authors explore how changes in the biomedical science prerequisites for dental school matriculation and associated modifications in curriculum focus and content would impact admissions testing, composition of national board exams, and strategies for teaching and learning within dental schools.

Simplified clinical procedure for fitting and removing inlays/onlays prior to cementation.

This article describes a procedure in which polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) tape is used as a liner for fitting intracoronally retained, indirect restorations. The minimal thickness of the tape allows complete seating and confirmation of marginal fit of restorations during try-in, yet the tape is tough enough to permit trouble-free removal of the restoration afterward. Protection against inadvertent loss of the restoration can be gained if a knot is placed close to the occlusal surface of the restoration prior to its removal.