In this podcast/interview with Karma dentistry, I discuss my practice experience and philosophies with Biomimetic Dentistry. The important concepts I emphasize are education, mentorship, and passion. There are no shortcuts or secrets. Dentistry is my hobby, and I'm passionate about constantly improving. Biomimetic Dentistry is the type of dentistry that aligns perfectly with this mentality.
I have had some amazing mentors who inspired me to practice the highest level of Biomimetic Dentistry. When I started dental school, I wanted to own multiple offices and be a "business owner" dentist but that all changed when I met Dr. Pascal Magne. During dental school, I trained with Pascal Magne for nearly two years in a program called the "Esthetic Selective." I learned all about Biomimetic and Esthetic dentistry and witnessed the amazing power of adhesive dentistry when all the science and concepts are applied to their full potential. This is really when I saw the impact Biomimetic Dentistry would have on my career and the profession. After school, I met David Alleman and continued my education, spending the next 10 years reviewing the scientifically published science and literature dating as far back as 1955. David and I have taught numerous courses together and I have tremendous respect for him.
So far during my career, I have learned there is no such thing as "good enough". I'm inspired to make an impact on the profession, and my satisfaction comes from improving every time I do something. This is one of my "secrets". Daily small consecutive changes make a big cumulative impact.
We then review a case of a tooth that was planned for a root canal and a "post" because there was very little tooth structure left. The patient was referred for a root canal but got a second opinion from her endodontist (specialist) friend who determined no root canal was necessary. The patient ultimately ended up in my chair for evaluation. The solution was very clear to me: the tooth was alive and with the biomimetic approach we could avoid unnecessary procedures. Biomimetic Dentistry is all about preserving intact tooth structure and avoiding the need for root canals and posts. This was remarkable for both the patient and her orthodontist who had never seen anything like this approach. This is something I commonly experience because many professionals rely on concepts that were taught in school years ago, but there have been significant advancements since. Unfortunately, it is very difficult to stay ahead of all the changes and learn these techniques when you are busy practicing and providing dentistry. Adhesive science is something I am extremely fascinated by, and I have devoted a significant portion of my career to understanding concepts such as polymerization and shrinkage stress, along with the techniques and materials which can enhance bond strengths.
The importance of teamwork and growing together is vital and I have had the privilege and opportunity to work with the best dental technicians in the world. I have learned so much from all of them and grown from these experiences. Today, I am fortunate to have one of the top ceramists in the world working alongside me every day, Paulo Battistella (Oral Design). Our goals are perfectly aligned on the concepts of biomimetic and esthetic dentistry. He authored an amazing book on dental ceramics that reviews layering concepts aimed at mimicking the properties of the various layers of natural teeth (ENAMEL, DENTIN, DEJ). For me, this is the best approach and together we have been able to push the boundaries of these concepts with each restoration and we have really had the most amazing time working together.
We conclude the interview with a discussion of the rapidly growing interest in biomimetic dentistry. Both patients and dentists have become increasingly aware of the advantages and benefits of biomimetic dentistry. Unfortunately, it has become one of those terms that everyone has started using even without any formal training or experience. The term becomes meaningless when it is used for purely marketing purposes, and it is deceptive to patients who are expecting something different than they receive. This type of dentistry requires years of practice and study. I think ethically, we need to avoid this type of misleading marketing because it doesn't help our patients!
I hope you enjoy this interview and there will be plenty more to come.
Subscribe to my channel and comment to let me know what you want to see more of! Stay Bonded- Matt Nejad DDS
Discussed/ Recommended Products:
Keep It Simple Book- Paulo Battsitella: amzn.to/2xB2sYz
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Dr. Matt Nejad
Practice:
Helm | Nejad | Stanley Dentistry
P: (310) 278-0440
W: HNSdentistry.com
IG: @Dr_MattNejad
Education & Lecturing:
Nejad Institute
W: nejadinstitute.com
IG: @Nejad_Institute