Ep. 647 - 50 Years in Dentistry: Tools, Tips, and Techniques from a Seasoned Pro

How can you ensure predictable outcomes when dental materials evolve faster than clinical protocols?

Dr. Howard Glazer brings five decades of clinical experience to this comprehensive discussion of modern dental materials and techniques. As a Fellow and Past President of the Academy of General Dentistry, former Assistant Clinical Professor at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Fellow of the American College of Dentists and International College of Dentists, Diplomate of the American Board of Aesthetic Dentistry, and Deputy Chief Forensic Dental Consultant to the Office of Chief Medical Examiner in New York City, Dr. Glazer has established himself as one of dentistry's most respected materials evaluators. He currently publishes the bi-monthly column "I Have It...You Need It!" in Dental Economics and lectures internationally on dental materials, cosmetic dentistry, and patient management.

This rapid-fire discussion covers the essential materials and technologies every dentist encounters daily, from composite resins and curing lights to provisional materials and patient management systems. Dr. Glazer shares his clinical philosophy of "faster, easier, better" while emphasizing that improvements must benefit both the practitioner and patient. The conversation addresses critical decisions facing modern practitioners: when to adopt new materials, how to evaluate product claims, and which technologies truly enhance clinical outcomes.

Episode Highlights:

• Nano-filled composites with organically modified ceramic resins (ormocer) offer superior strength and polishability compared to traditional macro-fill materials, with tighter nanoparticle structure preventing the chipping and ditching commonly seen in older formulations. Modern composite selection should include multiple A2 shades from different manufacturers since each offers unique color characteristics for optimal patient matching.
• Bulk-fill composite placement in deep preparations (7-8mm to axial gingival floor) requires curing lights with sufficient power output and direct beam collimation to ensure complete polymerization at the base. Inadequate light penetration often causes post-operative sensitivity due to incomplete cure at the deepest portions of the restoration.
• Tissue retraction for digital impressions can be achieved through three primary methods: traditional retraction cord, soft tissue diode lasers, or aluminum chloride retraction paste that provides hemostasis, tissue displacement, and sulcus drying. Regardless of impression technique, complete margin visualization remains absolutely critical for successful crown and bridge fabrication.
• Provisional restorations serve multiple critical functions beyond tissue protection, including aesthetic preview, treatment communication with laboratories, and long-term durability for bite-raising cases. Materials like bis-acryl formulations can provide 3-6 months of service when needed, with some requiring minimal polishing while maintaining high luster throughout treatment.
• Electric handpieces have become the standard in 56 of 62 dental schools, with modern units achieving 28% lighter weight and 23% smaller size compared to earlier generations. The consistent torque delivery of electric handpieces provides superior cutting efficiency and tactile feedback compared to air-driven alternatives.

Perfect for: General dentists, dental residents, and specialists seeking evidence-based guidance on material selection and clinical technique optimization. Particularly valuable for practitioners evaluating new technologies or updating their armamentarium with proven solutions.

Discover how five decades of clinical testing translates into practical material selection strategies for your practice.