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Dr Ray Lansdowne
Dr. Ray Lansdowne a Wichita native, attended Friends University, graduated from Baylor University College of Dentistry, and served in the Air Force as a dentist before taking over an existing Pediatric Dentistry practice in Wichita. Although Dr. Lansdowne does not specialize in children's dentistry, he holds a special place in his heart for serving children's dental needs. Currently, he is the first General Dentist to serve as Trustee for the A.A.P.D. (American Assoc. of Pediatric Dentistry). Alpha Omega Dental Center at 250 N. Tyler Rd., is a state of the art Family Dental Practice. He is active in numerous dental organizations and has served on various committees, boards and in elected office for local, state and national dental organizations. Reach him by e-mail at rlansdds@aol.com or fax at (316) 729-2754.
Dental
2003-12-01 09:52:00
Dental crowns in one visit?
ANSWER:  To continue our discussion on the CAD/CAM (Computer Assisted Design/ Computer Assisted Manufacturing) technology from last month’s issue:     The CAD/CAM has advantages that were all listed in the article you are referring to.  The precaution to which many dentists subscribe is not to be the first neither to be the last to become involved in the technological advances.  That way one does not buy into something that will not be sufficiently tested and proven to be better than that which is currently utilized or that something that will be obsolete before it produces income.  This particular device is somewhere in its third generation of development and shows great promise.  Most technology will increase in capabilities and come down in costs after the initial offering (note the history of the computer).  This particular system has virtually no competition, yet.  Several competitors are on the verge of introducing their products.  When that happens, dentists will have a better feel for the efficacy of the device in relation to its cost.   At some point, most dentists will undoubtedly have a similar system.  It will in my estimation have to be better for both the patient and the dentist than what is now utilized (but we are getting closer, just as we are with lasers, air abrasion, and caries detection without the explorer).  The restorations must have had a track record of durability in short term studies at least as good as the short term studies of successful traditional restorations.  It is best if long-term studies have been accomplished, however, if one waits for the time required for long-term studies to be complete better procedures and materials will be available.  For me, I must utilize the traditional methods for now weighing all the factors such as optimal fit, esthetics, costs and obsolescence.  For me, until technology advances to the point of replacing the traditional method, not just enhancing or augmenting the old, I will stick to the tried and true and not be swayed by the sales pitches that appeal to the emotions or ego.  I am not advocating that anyone leave their dentist because he/she utilizes these high tech items, but by the same reasoning, it may be that the care and services utilizing the more traditional methods are just as valid.  Technology is most effective when it enables one to deliver services or products at a savings in time and/or costs as compared to the existing procedures without sacrificing quality.  When that happens, then it is time to get on board.  Until then, one either enjoys the toys at the expense of personal economy, or passes on the costs of health care services.
 
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