- A case study by Dr. Clarissa Jänig The desire for whiter teeth and attaining the associated ideal of beauty are probably as old as mankind itself. However, it is interesting to note that many patients are still hesitant and critical when it comes to tooth whitening. Questions about the possible risks for enamel and general oral health keep coming up. There are also concerns about irreversible sensitivities and related complaints. In these cases comprehensive counseling is particularly important. We inform patients that, contrary to numerous rumors, the enamel is neither removed nor damaged, because when professional whitening products are used, molecules are exchanged during the whitening process. During this process, oxygen radicals decompose the color pigments in the tooth and start the whitening process. In our practice, it is important for us to exclusively use products that do not cause enamel damage, as their mode of action is based on the exchange of molecules. Furthermore, we are careful to choose products based on potassium nitrate, which reduce dehydration of the teeth and thus counteract the formation of sensitivities during treatment. In our experience, sensitivities can thus be virtually ruled out. Should sensitivities nevertheless occur, they usually disappear again within a few days by themselves. To accelerate this, patients should drink plenty of water, particularly in the morning, to compensate for dehydration. In some cases, additional treatment can be carried out with a desensitizer based on potassium nitrate, such as UltraEZ TM, if necessary.

A study has shown that we generate approximately 50% of our income with treatments using light polymerization (direct or indirect restorations). That‘s why this topic deserves an appropriate degree of attention: Which lights do I use? How are they handled?

Class II restorations are the bread and butter for many general practitioners, and Class II posterior restorations can make up roughly half of the cases performed by general dentists.

We recently had the opportunity to sit down with Dr. Richard B. Price to discuss curing lights. For those not familiar with Dr. Price and his work, he’s widely considered the dental industry’s premier expert on curing lights and research surrounding dental light curing. In fact, he’s been cited in more than 3,000 peer-reviewed, published research articles in over 140 publications throughout his career, and he shows no sign of slowing down. His innate curiosity for studying the reasons behind common issues that dentists in every field face unexpectedly led him to his chosen field of study. He now finds great satisfaction in mentoring and conducting research with the upcoming generation of dental students, dentists, and dental researchers at Tufts University School of Dentistry and at various dental schools in Canada, Brazil, and Europe.

By Leo Tjäderhane; DDS, PhD, professor of Cariology and Endodontics.

By Dr. Gary Findley

Photobiomodulation (PBM), or low level laser therapy, is a photo-chemical reaction where light energy of a certain wavelength, intensity, and duration is absorbed at a cellular level, improving local circulation, oxygenation, and enzyme activity. It has been clinically tested and shown to help improve tissue repair and reduce pain and inflammation.

The chemistries you use are different. Some are chemically activated and must be mixed immediately prior to placement. Others have varying viscosities. Some work in pits and fissures, some inside canals, and some on smooth surfaces. Each chemistry you use is designed for a specific purpose. Shouldn't the same be true for your applicator tips?

In the search of a more conservative, affordable and aesthetic approach, direct composite restorations are the most common choice. However, achieving success in a timely manner remains a challenge.