Here you will find updates about the institute, information about our corporate partners, new product information and of course, the H.O.T tip . . . directly from the desk of
Dr. Hebel and Dr. Gajjar

So, let's get started . . .

H.O.T tip...
from the desks of Drs. Hebel & Gajjar

Implant Maintenance

The Implant is in, the crown has been inserted . . . now what??

Although an implant replaces the root of a natural tooth, and an all ceramic or PFM restoration replaces the crown of a natural tooth, the maintenance protocol initially is just a little different.

During the insertion appointment, if you are cementing your restoration onto the implant abutment, you must aggressively remove all of the cement subgingivally. The tissue will be irritated and inflamed. Make sure that you explain to the patient that the tissue will resolve in a few weeks!!

This is the protocol we then follow:

1. 2 weeks after insertion: a tissue check is performed at this time to make sure that the tissue is healing and there is no evidence of inflammation. If the tissue is not resolving at this time, the most likely problem is that there is still some cement left in the sulcus. Deal with any issues you see at this time immediately!
2. 3 month recall: the patient is then placed on a 3 month recall for the first year. At each recall appointment, we perform a tissue check and take a radiograph to verify the integrity of the bone around the implant. These appointments are also critical to review oral hygiene with the patient. If you see any problems during these recalls, do not adopt a “wait and see” approach. You need to deal with any issues immediately!
3. 6 month recall: after the first year, the patient is then placed on a 6 month recall. The same protocol is followed – a tissue check, hygiene maintenance and a radiograph. Depending on the patient’s oral hygiene and tissue/bone health around the implant the patient remains on a 6 month recall.
4. 1 year recall: if the patient is not having any issues with their implant, and they are obtaining their general recall maintenance at another dental office, (ie: in a referral situation), the patient can then be placed on an annual recall. Once again, the same procedure is followed – tissue check with a radiograph.

It is important to remember that patients are not usually aware if problems arise around or with their implant restorations, so recalls are extremely important as a preventive measure!

Why are we so popular??

Our programs are filling up – course after course after course . . . Why are we so popular?

Well, it could be because we get rave reviews, or because our programs are so great, or because of the outstanding food, or the fun social events, or the unforgettable lifetime learning experience!!!!

However, it’s probably because of the paradigm shift that's occurring today in dentistry . . . read on . . .

The Paradigm Shift

Today, implant dentistry is being accepted into mainstream dentistry, just as crown and bridge was accepted into mainstream dentistry in the 1950’s. As we know today, practically every dentist participates in crown and bridge as a component of a successful practice.

There is a paradigm shift occurring. More and more dentists are realizing the benefits of implant therapy, and are starting to make implant dentistry a routine part of everyday practice. Also, more and more patients are starting to ask about implant therapy and looking to their dentist for the best treatment options.

Today’s progressive dentist is becoming involved with implant dentistry to create a high profile profitable practice. If you wish to change your practice and your lifestyle, become involved in this paradigm shift. Otherwise, get prepared to be left behind . . .

Dentists are becoming excited about implants, and are realizing that this is one of the best treatment solutions in Dentistry . . . So give us a call, and see what type of training would be best for you!

US or Canadian program? – Confused?

We have now started the mini-residency programs in the US, and dentists are rushing to sign up (remember the paradigm shift?)!!

Our first program in California was sold out – with several people on the waiting list. The New Jersey program in November has only a few spots left, so if you were planning to sign up, don’t delay!!

The 8-day program offered in the US is presented over two sessions, and contains the same didactic information as our programs in Canada, with hands on surgeries performed on models.

Our Canadian program is 11 days, presented over 3 sessions, and offers the hands on model surgeries, along with live surgeries performed by Dr. Hebel and also by the participants.

Our next Canadian program which still has availability is Session 1, offered November 24-27, 2005.

US or Canadian? Click here for more detailed information, or call 1-888-806-4442

Increase Case Acceptance with Teamwork

Have you taken lots of training but are having difficulty getting patients to sign up for implant treatment?

Is it possible that you, the dentist, is the only one in your office that has taken implant training and really understands the benefits for the patient?

Don’t forget, Dentistry is all about Teamwork. It is your staff that provides the infrastructure within which you create your practice. Face it, without our staff, we are nothing (only people with dental degrees)!!!

So if you are trying to embrace a new procedure, or incorporate new technology into your practice, you need to involve your team so that they can continue to provide the necessary support for you to be successful. How can you expect your patient coordinator to discuss implant cases with patients, if they themselves have not been educated in the procedures and benefits? How can you expect your dental assistant to assist during implant procedures, if they have not been properly trained?

Whether you choose to train your team yourself or you sign them up for a structured program, we encourage you to invest the time and money, and see what a difference it will make in your case acceptance.

Find out about our Staff Training Program offered December 8-9, 2005.

Ask A Question

We are starting a question and answer section in our Newsletter that will address questions from YOU! Questions can be anything you want – from clinical questions to case presentation to practice management . . .

Click here to submit a question. Not all questions can be answered, however, we will address the most common questions in our next newsletter.

Don’t be shy – we want to hear from you!!

Leasing Program

The leasing program is becoming a very popular way for dentists to become involved in implant dentistry. Click here to download a PDF file for more details, or contact your local Nobel Biocare representative.

It really is too good to pass up!

Sharing with your colleagues

If you enjoy reading our newsletter, why not share it with a friend. Click here and send a copy of our newsletter to all your friends. After all, learning together is so much more fun!

And don't forget about our referral program. Refer a friend and save $500.00 off your next course. Click here for details.

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