Technology Triggering Brighter Smiles - dentistry - Brief Article

USA Today (Society for the Advancement of Education), Nov, 2000

Dentists are working with the latest technology to engineer smiles for a lifetime, according to Ronald E. Goldstein, clinical professor of oral rehabilitation, Medical College of Georgia School of Dentistry, Augusta, and author of Change Your Smile. "We are looking at the many possibilities in the future application of today's ongoing research. For example, there is much anticipation about research in gene therapy and tissue engineering, the possible use of tooth regeneration techniques instead of dental implants, and the use of more biocompatible materials in helping improve one's smile. Current advances in cosmetic dentistry now offer patients new opportunities in esthetic restorative procedures that have the potential to reverse the signs of dental aging, making them look younger."

A state-of-the-art comprehensive imaging system can help predict what a new smile will look like before any work is done. Dentists are utilizing computer-assisted anesthesia systems that numb teeth, a laser that removes decay, and computer-aided design and manufacturing to construct all-ceramic restorations. Moreover, most modern restorative materials are more natural looking than what was used in the past.

The dental profession's traditional role was centered on the eradication of oral diseases, Goldstein points out. "But today, that role has been expanded to improve the shape of the mouth and face," he explains. People are living longer, and this aging population has an increasing number of natural teeth. "And the physical and esthetic attributes of aged teeth are identifiable and, over time, alter the appearance of the teeth and smile."

Goldstein cites research that the public places an increasing priority on a healthy and attractive smile, and that the value of one's teeth has taken on greater importance to the baby boomer and subsequent generations. "The effort to meet this need has become a multi-billion-dollar industry and is fueled increasingly by the desire for whiter, brighter, younger-looking smiles."