A Multi-Disciplinary Approach To Challenges Faced By Regional Dentistry Professionals

Dentistry symposium to look at imaging capabilities in dentistry

Oral and maxillofacial radiology has experienced rapid development in the last seven years. This is according to Juan F Yepes, Associate Professor, Division of Oral Diagnosis, Medicine and Radiology, University of Kentucky College of Dentistry who will be conducting a workshop on “Updates in Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology” at the upcoming Dentistry Exhibition & Conference, from 9 to 11 November, 2010, at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC).

Digital radiology was developed in the late 1980’s but the full expansion of the system happened in the last decade. Cone Beam CT (CBCT) technology started to be used in dentistry in 2003 and since then, the improvement in the imaging capabilities in dentistry is unbelievable, says Dr Yepes.

“Two digital radiology technologies are available in the market today,” says Dr Yepes. “The first one is called “indirect” or phosphorous plates (PSP). This technology uses a similar receptor size and a processing station that retrieves the digital imaging from the receptor. The receptor can be used multiple times and there is a short learning curve because the similarities of the receptor with the conventional film. The other technology is called “direct” or sensor-type. The sensor is connected directly with the computer and the acquisition of the digital image is immediate. While both technologies offer advantages and disadvantages for the dental practitioner both provide a significant improvement over conventional radiology.

“CBCT, without any question, is the most significant technology advancement in oral and maxillofacial radiology in the last 50 years. CBCT allows us to analyse the anatomic structures of the head and neck in three dimensions. Multiple uses have been developed in dentistry using this technology. Oral surgery, implantology, periodontology and oral pathology are just a few of the fields of dentistry using the maximum capabilities of 3D imaging. The workshop at Dentistry 2010 will discuss the main characteristics of CBCT including examples of applications in dentistry.”

This workshop at Dentistry 2010 is oriented to the dental practitioner regardless of the specialty. The topics covered during the seminar are important for all dentists that use radiology and imaging as part of their practice. Dr Yepes will present the most up-to-date information in digital imaging, including CBCT.

“These technologies are changing right now, and so is the way that we treat our patients. This workshop will bring the participants information necessary to make decisions in clinical dentistry to improve our treatment outcomes,” he says.

Dentistry 2010 will incorporate a multi-track, accredited conference and an exhibition showcasing a wide-range of dental products in designated zones including imaging, surgery, materials and equipment. The event is supported by UAE Ministry of Health and the Dubai Health Authority.

Prof Dr Asmat Lone, Chairman, Dentistry 2010, says: “As a multi-disciplinary approach is encouraged and sought by most dentists, we have therefore focused on this approach to our conference streams addressing challenges faced by regional professionals which may be applied at their practice the very next day.”

Trade visitors have unlimited access to the exhibition, and may register their participation at any time during the event.

For more information about Dr Yepes’ workshop or Dentistry 2010 please call +971 4 407 2743 or visit www.dentistryme.com.
 

View News Headlines