October 18th 2023
A report by William Bonab, final-year dental student at Kings College, London
The current state of dentistry stands as a unique juncture in the history and future of our profession. It is improbable that we will again witness a period where both traditional and modern approaches, techniques, and technologies coexist to address the diverse needs of our patients.
After a warm greeting to all attendees at the inaugural Alpha Omega meeting of the season and a welcoming introduction to the speaker by the current Chairman Dr Jayne Cooper,
Dr. Basil Mizrahi, a distinguished authority in traditional prosthodontics who has borne witness to the ascent of digital dentistry during his career, shared his thoughts on this pivotal matter on a rainy evening at the British Dental Association (BDA). His lecture captivated the audience, comprised of members and guests from the Alpha Omega London Society.
Dr. Mizrahi presented a compelling argument, praising the virtues of contemporary "new school" methods, particularly with advancements in materials and adhesive technology. However, he remained steadfast in his conviction that there is an enduring place for traditional approaches. The prevailing consensus was that there are still many areas where traditional methods ensure greater longevity.
To best serve our patients, we must judiciously choose the most appropriate method, be it a novel innovation or a tried-and-true tradition. What should guide our selection is not a blind allegiance to the latest trends, but a commitment to what is most predictable and has the longest expected longevity.
The evening concluded with a thought-provoking discussion encapsulated by the concept, "Longevity mitigates biological cost." This adage underscores the notion that as treatment becomes more invasive, the importance of achieving long-lasting results becomes paramount. In such cases, there is minimal room for error or the possibility of remediation, making precision and technical excellence imperative at every stage of the process.
The Alpha Omega London Chapter extends its heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Basil Mizrahi for generously sharing his wealth of knowledge, unwavering commitment to excellence, and his infectious enthusiasm. His insights illuminated the path forward for dental practitioners, urging them to harmonize the best of the old and new to serve their patients with the utmost precision, integrity, and foresight.
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