Embarking on a skiing adventure requires enthusiasm and the right equipment tailored to your skiing style, skill level, and terrain you plan to conquer. With many options available, navigating the world of ski gear can be overwhelming for both beginners and experienced skiers. Here’s a guide to help demystify choosing the right ski equipment:

1. Skis: Selecting the appropriate skis is crucial and depends on various factors:

Type of Skiing: Different types of skis cater to specific terrains. All-mountain skis are versatile for various conditions, while powder skis excel in deep snow. Carving skis offer precision on groomed slopes, and freestyle skis suit terrain parks and tricks.

Length and Width: Ski length and width impact stability, maneuverability, and floatation. Beginners often benefit from shorter skis, while longer skis provide stability at higher speeds. Wider skis are better for powder, while narrower ones offer better grip on hard snow.

2. Ski Boots: Comfortable and well-fitted ski boots are essential for control and performance:

Fit and Flex: Boots should snugly fit without causing discomfort or pressure points. Consider the flex rating, which indicates stiffness; higher flex suits aggressive skiers, while lower flex is suitable for beginners or lighter skiers.

3. Ski Bindings: Bindings connect your boots to the skis and play a critical role in safety:

Compatibility: Ensure bindings are compatible with your ski boots and adjusted correctly based on weight, skiing ability, and boot sole length. Seek professional help for proper adjustments.

4. Ski Poles: Poles provide balance and aid in maneuvering on the slopes:

Length: Choose poles that allow for a comfortable 90-degree elbow bend when holding them. Adjustable bars offer versatility.

5. Ski Helmet and Safety Gear: Safety should always be a priority on the slopes:

Helmet and Goggles: Invest in a well-fitted, certified ski helmet to protect against head injuries. Choose goggles with UV protection, anti-fog features, and suitable lens tint for varying light conditions.

Protective Gear: Consider wrist guards, spine protectors, or padded shorts, especially for beginners or those exploring challenging terrain.

6. Ski Clothing and Accessories: Dress appropriately for warmth, comfort, and weather protection:

Layering: Wear moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outer layers.

Gloves or Mittens: Insulated, waterproof gloves or mittens are essential for warmth and protection.

Socks: Opt for moisture-wicking, cushioned ski socks to keep your feet warm and dry.

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In today’s fast-paced world, holistic wellness, encompassing the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit, has gained prominence as individuals seek a more comprehensive approach to health and well-being. Embracing holistic practices involves nurturing all aspects of oneself to achieve overall balance and harmony. Let’s delve into the significance of holistic approaches to wellness and how they contribute to a healthier, more fulfilling life.

Mind-Body Connection: Holistic wellness emphasizes the deep connection between mental and physical health. Stress, anxiety, or emotional imbalance can manifest physically, affecting overall well-being. Practices such as mindfulness, meditation, yoga, and deep-breathing exercises help manage stress, promote relaxation, and enhance mental clarity, fostering a harmonious relationship between the mind and body.

Nutrition and Physical Health: A holistic approach to wellness emphasizes the importance of a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep for optimal physical health. Consuming nourishing foods, staying hydrated, engaging in physical activity, and prioritizing restful sleep is integral to supporting the body’s natural healing mechanisms and maintaining vitality.

Emotional and Spiritual Well-being: Holistic wellness extends beyond physical health, encompassing emotional and spiritual aspects. Cultivating positive relationships, practicing gratitude, fostering self-awareness, and engaging in activities that bring joy and fulfillment contribute to emotional resilience and spiritual growth.

Natural Healing Therapies: Holistic wellness embraces various natural healing modalities that complement conventional medicine. These include acupuncture, herbal medicine, aromatherapy, chiropractic care, massage therapy, and energy healing practices like Reiki. These therapies focus on restoring balance and harmony within the body, aiding healing, and promoting overall well-being.

Environmental Consciousness: A holistic approach to wellness recognizes the interconnectedness between individual health and the environment. Adopting eco-friendly practices, reducing exposure to toxins, spending time in nature, and connecting with the natural world contribute to overall wellness and connectedness.

Holistic Healthcare Providers: Choosing healthcare providers who embrace a holistic approach ensures comprehensive care that addresses the whole person rather than solely focusing on symptoms. When developing treatment plans, holistic practitioners consider individual lifestyles, emotions, and beliefs, promoting personalized and patient-centered care.

In summary, holistic approaches to wellness emphasize the importance of nurturing the mind, body, and spirit as interconnected elements contributing to overall health. By incorporating practices that foster balance, mindfulness, self-care, and a deeper connection with oneself and the environment, individuals can experience a more holistic and fulfilling way of living, promoting long-term well-being and vitality.

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Dentistry represents the perfect intersection between scientific precision and artistic creativity. It is not simply about treating teeth; dentists are artists who blend their understanding of biological sciences with exceptional artistic skills to craft smiles that suit every face, making dentistry the beaming face of medicine. As dentists, our training involves working on extremely small areas, often no larger than a few millimeters. We understand how even a minuscule difference can dramatically alter a patient’s appearance, which can lead to meticulous overthinking and a relentless pursuit of perfection.

Even when you create a stunning smile, you may only be able to focus on a quarter-millimeter discrepancy that’s visible to others only under magnification. This attention to detail can lead to frustration or regret over hours of effort, even though the result is excellent from the patient’s perspective (and might even impress other dentists). This never-ending quest for perfection is the foundation of our high standards and causes us to continuously push the boundaries of precision and excellence in dentistry.

The perils of perfectionism

What is perfectionism? It’s the continuous search for flawlessness and the rejection of anything short of it. The problem, though, is that when you seek perfection, your goals continually change and are always just out of reach. Think of it as a race where the finish line is always three steps ahead, no matter how long you run.

This drive for perfection might initially motivate young achievers by offering a lofty goal to strive for. However, it can gradually become toxic as it depletes your energy, causes feelings of chronic inadequacy and makes the accomplishments that you do reach less joyful because they never reach your idea of “perfect.” As the saying goes, courtesy of Winston Churchill, “Perfection is the enemy of progress.” The relentless pursuit of perfection can be damaging to your mental health, often leading to stress, anxiety and depression. Furthermore, if you’re constantly seeking perfection in one area, you may miss other opportunities that make your professional and personal lives rewarding and enjoyable.

Recalibrate your perceptions

When the search for perfection becomes too much, recalibrate your perceptions — remember that perfection is only an illusion, but striving for excellence is possible. It’s a small shift, only a single word, but it’s enough to reframe your mind and prevent the unavoidable burnout associated with the quest for perfectionism.

In my own journey, I have learned that, ultimately, God will bring about what is meant to be, and I will receive what I deserve, even if it isn’t the perfect outcome I initially envisioned. In my culture, we emphasize balance, saying, “Moderation is the adornment of matters,” highlighting that finding equilibrium is key to achieving true fulfillment. Shifting my focus toward inner peace and excellence rather than perfection has been transformative. This change has allowed me to grow, mature and gain wisdom, focusing on the best outcomes for everyone rather than selfishly seeking perfection.

Dealing with comparisons has been crucial in this journey. Some people seem to have everything perfectly done and portray life as flawless, making you question, “What’s wrong with me?” There’s a saying, “He exaggerates and makes a big fuss out of a tiny thing,” which captures this well. Some do this intentionally, while others do it unintentionally to feel happy. I learned not to judge others and to take only the positive aspects from these portrayals, focusing on my progress without unrealistic comparisons. Often, I hesitate to try things because they are marketed as extraordinary feats. However, when I finally attempt them, I realize they are neither as difficult nor as impressive as portrayed. This understanding has helped me approach challenges with a balanced perspective, focusing on my capabilities and progress.

Create a life outside of your work

Loving your work and being proud of what you do is natural, but it’s important to remember that dentistry is just one aspect of your identity. Allocate time for rest, social activities and breaks to maintain a well-rounded work-life balance. You’ll perform better at work when you give yourself ample time away from it. The term “work-life balance” is used a lot, but it’s a myth — you cannot treat both equally. Instead, you can strive for harmony by aligning your actions with your unique values, goals and life circumstances.

Find hobbies outside of work that bring you joy, help manage your stress and allow you to step out of the work headspace. Whether it’s playing football (or should I say, soccer), hiking or learning a musical instrument, engaging in activities you love can remind you there’s more to life than career “perfection.”

Volunteer

Finding fulfillment often means looking beyond perfection, and volunteering can be a key to this realization. Giving back to the community, especially to those underserved, shows that perfection isn’t necessary to make a positive impact. Furthermore, sharing your knowledge and mentoring others can foster positive changes, reinforcing the idea that everyone has something valuable to offer.

Volunteering provides a sense of purpose and perspective. By focusing on the needs of others and tackling real-world problems, you’ll see that the value you bring isn’t reliant upon flawless performance, and success can be found solely with continual progress. Volunteering fosters empathy, reduces stress and builds community connections, enhancing personal growth and well-being. It promotes a balanced outlook on life and achievements, which is particularly beneficial for high-stress professions like dentistry, where perfectionism is common.

Steer clear of social media comparisons

“Comparison is the thief of joy.” — Theodore Roosevelt. Social media is a double-edged sword; it connects us with others but also puts our colleagues’ achievements on display, often without revealing how many struggles they faced along the way. This creates a distorted reality where we compare our behind-the-scenes to others’ highlight reels.

While social media offers opportunities for networking and professional growth, the curated perfection seen online can lead to unrealistic expectations and feelings of inadequacy, contributing to stress, imposter syndrome and burnout. To avoid these toxic effects, it’s crucial to approach social media mindfully. Reflect on your journey and acknowledge your unique challenges and milestones without comparing them to others’. Your path is uniquely yours, and any progress you make is noteworthy.

Ditch the idea of perfect

Perfectionism often does more harm than good. It can cause career stagnation, drive self-deprecating thoughts and foster imposter syndrome, all in the interest of creating something unattainable: perfection. If your goals always feel out of reach, take time to reevaluate and possibly dial them back to the realm of realism. Remember, while perfection is an illusion, excellence is something tangible to strive for. Reshape your perception, embrace your imperfections and see how excellence, not perfection, is the true path to professional and personal fulfillment.

By understanding the perfectionist mindset and implementing these strategies, we can transform our approach to dentistry. Embrace progress and self-compassion to find fulfillment in our achievements, and enjoy the journey toward excellence without the burden of perfectionism.

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Running is not just a physical activity; it’s a practice that profoundly intertwines the mind and body, showcasing the profound connection between mental fortitude and physical performance. The relationship between the mind and body plays a crucial role in a runner’s success and overall experience. Here’s a deeper exploration of the mind-body connection in running:

1. Mental Preparation and Focus: The mental aspect of running is as essential as physical training. Mental preparation involves setting goals, visualizing success, and maintaining focus during runs. Concentration on breathing, form, and pacing helps runners stay present and enhances performance.
2. Positive Mindset and Motivation: A positive mindset is a powerful tool in running and maintaining optimism and self-belief, and motivation aids in overcoming challenges and pushing through difficult moments during runs. Positive self-talk and affirmations contribute to mental resilience.
3. Mental Toughness and Resilience: Running often involves facing physical and mental barriers. Mental toughness enables runners to endure discomfort, overcome fatigue, and persist through challenging conditions. Developing resilience helps navigate setbacks and setbacks encountered during runs.
4. Stress Relief and Mental Well-being: Running is a stress-relieving activity promoting mental well-being. The release of endorphins during exercise elevates mood, reduces stress, and alleviates symptoms of anxiety or depression. Many runners find solace and mental clarity while running.
5. Mindful Running and Awareness: Mindfulness techniques enhance body awareness, such as mindful breathing or focusing on sensations while running. Awareness of posture, movement, and how the body feels during runs helps prevent injury and improves running efficiency.
6. Flow State and Runner’s High: Experiencing a flow state or “runner’s high” involves effortless concentration and enjoyment during runs. This state of optimal performance occurs when the mind and body synchronize, leading to a sense of euphoria and increased performance.
7. Visualization and Goal Achievement: Visualization techniques involve mentally rehearsing successful runs or achieving specific goals. Visualizing crossing the finish line, reaching a personal record, or conquering a challenging route can boost confidence and motivation.
8. Recovery and Mindfulness Practices: Rest and recovery are vital aspects of the mind-body connection in running. Practices like meditation, yoga, or relaxation techniques aid in recovery by promoting mental relaxation and reducing stress, leading to better physical recovery.

The mind-body connection in running underscores the significance of mental strength, focus, and emotional well-being in optimizing physical performance and overall running experience. Embracing this connection allows runners to tap into their full potential, fostering a harmonious balance between the mind and body to achieve tremendous success and enjoyment in their running journeys.

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Telemedicine, a rapidly evolving aspect of healthcare, has transformed how patients access medical care and interact with healthcare professionals. It involves the remote delivery of healthcare services through telecommunications technology, offering consultations, diagnoses, treatment plans, and even monitoring of patients from a distance. Let’s explore how telemedicine is reshaping healthcare and why it’s considered the future of medical consultations.

Accessibility and Convenience: One of the most significant advantages of telemedicine is its accessibility. Patients no longer need to travel long distances or wait for appointments to consult with a healthcare provider. Through telemedicine platforms, individuals can access medical advice and care from the comfort of their homes, eliminating geographical barriers and saving time.

Improved Healthcare Delivery: Telemedicine facilitates efficient and timely delivery of healthcare services. Patients can connect with healthcare professionals swiftly, particularly in urgent situations where immediate medical advice is crucial. This accessibility minimizes delays in treatment, potentially preventing the worsening of health issues.

Remote Monitoring and Follow-ups: Telemedicine allows healthcare providers to monitor patients’ health conditions remotely, track progress, and conduct follow-up appointments. Remote monitoring tools, such as wearable devices or smartphone applications, enable the collection of vital health data, empowering healthcare professionals to make informed decisions and provide timely interventions.

Cost-Effectiveness: Telemedicine can be a cost-effective alternative to traditional in-person consultations. It reduces expenses related to travel, parking, and waiting times for both patients and healthcare providers. Additionally, telemedicine may lead to fewer hospital readmissions and emergency room visits, potentially reducing overall healthcare costs.

Expanded Access to Specialists: For individuals residing in remote or underserved areas, telemedicine bridges the gap by granting access to specialists and healthcare services that may not be readily available locally. Patients can connect with experts across various medical fields, receiving specialized care without geographical constraints.

Enhanced Patient Engagement: Telemedicine encourages active patient participation in their healthcare journey. Patients have easier access to their medical records, test results, and treatment plans, fostering better communication and understanding between patients and healthcare providers.

Adaptability and Technology Integration: Advancements in technology continue to refine telemedicine services. Integration with electronic health records (EHRs), artificial intelligence (AI), and telehealth platforms allows for seamless communication and data sharing, improving the overall quality of care.

The future of healthcare consultations undoubtedly embraces telemedicine as an integral part of delivering efficient, accessible, and patient-centric care. As technology evolves and healthcare systems adapt, telemedicine will become increasingly crucial in transforming the healthcare landscape, providing personalized and convenient healthcare solutions for individuals worldwide.

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I started working with seniors and patients with special health care needs last year. This was a result of my general practice residency, during which I learned how to care for patients with more complex needs. Finding care for many of these patients is especially difficult. Some patients are restricted because of resources or their support systems; others are limited by a disability from leaving their home and getting the dental care they need. At Enable Dental, we are able to provide fully functional portable dental services to our patients in their homes, thereby eliminating frequently encountered barriers in accessing care.

I often get questions from friends, family and colleagues on what exactly I do in “portable dentistry.” To be completely clear, we do not have a dental van with chairs in it that patients get to use. We mobilize all dental equipment and take it into our patients’ homes or assisted/independent living centers.

Here are some of the highlights and challenges associated with working in portable dentistry:

1. We have long commutes.

Since we go see our patients at assisted living centers or their homes, we often have to drive long distances. Most of the time we drive together in a single vehicle and split driving among each other. Long commutes mean long days. I often get home after 6 p.m. on such days. Those are days I do not cook dinner.

2. We do dentistry standing up, bending or occasionally sitting down.

Recently I had a patient sitting in her arm chair and prepped for a few extractions. Unfortunately, I didn’t have the foresight to move her into a chair without thick arm rests beforehand. After a lot of changes to my positioning and sweating/sighing, I ultimately sat on the floor and extracted Nos. 12 and 13. Afterwards, my assistant said, “Congratulations, you just delivered two boys!” That cracked me up, and the whole room, including our patient, erupted in giggles.

3. I wear excellent loupes because I have to.

I recently made the decision to buy an ergonomic set of loupes. They have been a godsend. The loupes have prevented me from worsening my upper back and neck. Especially with the work I do, having a nonergonomic set of loupes would have made life miserable.

Ergonomic loupes have a slight bend in them, which means the loupes do the bending for you, instead of your neck. You can stand and look straight ahead and still see everything you need to in a patient’s mouth. The power at which I use my loupes gave me no headaches and did not require any time getting used to.

4. We provide a ‘good and better’ plan for patients.

Most of our patients are above the age of 75. It may not always be reasonable for us to plan extensive care for them. Many are looking for palliative care and regular hygiene appointments only. Most are looking for someone to talk to for an hour. It’s an honor for me to feel included in my patients’ lives and listen to their stories during these times. Our treatment plan is based on what is realistic for us to achieve given their medications and complex needs. This can be very different from what we are traditionally able to achieve in a regular dental clinic environment. We always provide one to two alternatives to all treatment plans.

5. We address complex medical histories.

I have to admit that after residency, complicated medications and medical histories do not scare me as much as they used to. My general practice residency prepared us for the most medically complex conditions. If you are a dental student and not considering a residency, let this post make you reconsider.

When it comes to our patients, it is important to put their diet, medications, preference and dental needs in a neat bow and come up with the right plan. There are several patients for whom I have to regularly contact physicians, endocrinologists or cardiologists to have an educated conversation about test results and next steps. A dentist can be an important person to alert the care team on things that are amiss. We need to remember that patients see their dentists more often than their physicians. I usually set aside a half day for these consultations. I’ve also found that having phone conversations about important topics is much better than requesting a standard medical clearance that comes back saying “patient cleared for dental treatment.”

There was a patient we saw in residency with an abnormally high blood sugar level that needed full-mouth extractions and dentures. We declined to do the extractions until his blood sugar is under better control because of postoperative healing considerations. This prompted his care team to start the patient on insulin. The patient may not have gotten the needed care and medications had it not been for our team creating this alert.

6. We have a committed, motivated team.

It is hard to be in a job like this and not be committed to our work. Our assistants lug heavy equipment to and from every patient’s home and then commit 100% to their treatment plan and care. The nature of our work and patients we see also makes it easy for us to love our jobs. Before I started doing this, I used to think pediatric dentists probably have the most fun jobs in the world. Seeing adorable small kids all day — how cute! However, now I think treating seniors is just as fun (or even more).

7. Our patients are amazing.

We are often the last resort for our patients, and that becomes very evident when we meet them. Most are very happy to see us and thankful for a dental team that can come to their doorstep to care for them. We also, of course, have patients who are less than overjoyed to see us. Those are the patients whose children are scheduling dental treatments for them. There are also patients who may be confused by our presence. This could be because of advancing dementia or other neurological conditions.

8. I was able to work longer while pregnant.

I worked through nearly 35 weeks of pregnancy in this job. Had it been a traditional brick-and-mortar space, the size of my belly would have probably impeded my ability to practice beyond 25 weeks, the way it does most clinicians. Since I stand while I do most treatments, I was able to perform dentistry much longer. My caring team also took extra steps to make sure I was more comfortable during this time, and my patients gave my child many, many blessings. The constant moving around also helped me stay active throughout pregnancy.

All patient interactions have taught me significant lessons about society, the aging process, the importance of family and support systems, patience, compassion, and different cultures. These are lessons I would not find in any other job. I hope this post inspires other new dentists to work with seniors and patients with special health care needs. Getting anxious about treating these populations is only natural; however, with time and proper education via residency or dedicated continuing education, it will become easier.

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As dentists, it is important for us to understand mental health illnesses are on a continuum, from mild or none to moderate or severe, and they are diagnosable and treatable health conditions. Everyone has a state of mental health and wellness, which can be good or poor or somewhere in between. Mental health and wellness can vary or change at different ages and phases and changes in life. Not having a mental illness does not guarantee good mental health, and similarly, having mental illness does not guarantee poor mental health.

Recently, I was reminded of this through meditation and my spirituality. I underwent events at work that caused a downturn in my well-being, and I decided to refocus through meditation and church.  During the meditation, the instructor said to think of events and challenges as waves in the ocean.  There will be ups and downs and times when things are rough, but there will also be times where the sea is calm.

As I work towards more optimal mental health, I have found that it is helpful to track my well-being over time. One of the initiatives from the ADA Wellness Ambassador Program was a pilot of the Well-Being Index from Mayo Clinic. The index is an anonymous self-assessment tool that was created to measure distress, well-being, quality of life, fatigue and provider burnout.

The ADA’s Council on Dental Practice and Dental Team Wellness Advisory Committee have been advocating for mental health and wellness for oral health care providers. The ADA created the Wellness Ambassador Program and hosted a Health and Well-Being Summit in September 2023. At the summit, each wellness ambassador was able to share their work in progressing mental health and well-being.

Through my wellness journey, I was able to be a part of the Well-Being Index pilot program and take monthly self-assessments. When I took my first assessment, I realized I had fallen below average and was able to change my path through my habits at home and work. I have found the monthly assessments also keep my wellness on track even when I am not in a state of poor mental health, as I have feedback about where I am as a health care professional.

Recently, the ADA made the index available to all members of the organization, including dental students. The assessment only takes a minute to complete, provides immediate ADA and some state-specific resources to participants, and allows them to track their progress over time.

Personally, the index has been a wonderful resource, not just when times have been challenging for me, but also at times when I am well. I would encourage all members to utilize the index, as our bodies and minds are our greatest resources in our journey of life.

For additional wellness resources, visit ADA.org/wellness.

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Running is a simple yet rewarding activity requiring minimal equipment, but having the right gear can significantly improve a runner’s comfort, performance, and overall experience. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned runner, here’s a comprehensive guide to essential items that should be part of every runner’s kit:

1. Running Shoes: Investing in high-quality running shoes is paramount. Choose shoes with proper support, cushioning, and stability for your foot type and running style. Regularly replace worn-out shoes to prevent injuries and maintain optimal performance.
2. Moisture-Wicking Apparel: Opt for moisture-wicking, breathable clothing made from technical fabrics that help manage sweat and keep you dry and comfortable during runs. Wear moisture-wicking tops, shorts, or leggings suitable for different weather conditions.
3. Technical Socks: Select socks designed for running, preferably made from moisture-wicking materials that prevent blisters and provide cushioning and support. Proper running socks can significantly enhance comfort and reduce the risk of foot-related issues.
4. GPS Running Watch or Smartphone App: A GPS running watch or smartphone app can track distance, pace, route, heart rate, and other essential metrics. These devices help monitor performance, set goals, and track progress during training sessions.
5. Hydration Gear: Hydrate during runs by carrying a handheld water bottle, hydration belt, or hydration pack. Ensure you have access to water or electrolyte beverages, especially during longer runs in hot conditions.
6. Reflective Gear and Lights: For running in low-light conditions or at night, wear reflective clothing or accessories to enhance visibility to vehicles and other runners. Consider using a headlamp or a clip-on light for added safety.
7. Running Hat or Visor: Protect yourself from the sun and keep sweat out of your eyes with a lightweight, breathable running hat or visor. Choose one that offers sun protection and allows for ventilation.
8. Recovery Tools: Include recovery tools such as foam rollers, massage balls, or compression gear in your kit. These aids help alleviate muscle soreness, improve recovery, and prevent injury by promoting better circulation and muscle relaxation.
9. Sunscreen and Sunglasses: Apply sunscreen before running to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Wear UV-protective sunglasses to shield your eyes and improve visibility in bright conditions.
10. First Aid Kit: Carry a small kit containing essentials like adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, blister pads, and pain relief medication for minor injuries or discomfort during runs.

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Dental implants have revolutionized dentistry, offering a permanent solution for replacing missing teeth and restoring functionality and aesthetics. Understanding the various types of dental implants and their respective benefits is crucial for individuals seeking to regain their smiles. Let’s explore the different types of dental implants and the advantages they offer:

1. Endosteal Implants: Endosteal implants are the most commonly used type of dental implants. These implants are surgically placed directly into the jawbone, acting as artificial tooth roots. Once the implant fuses with the bone during the healing process (osseointegration), a connector called an abutment is attached, onto which the artificial tooth or crown is placed. Endosteal implants are versatile, suitable for most patients, and offer a robust and stable foundation for replacement teeth.

Benefits: Strong and durable foundation. Support for single or multiple teeth replacements. Long-lasting solution with proper care and maintenance. It preserves jawbone density and prevents bone loss.

2. Subperiosteal Implants: Subperiosteal implants are placed on or above the jawbone but beneath the gum tissue. These implants consist of a metal framework atop the jawbone, with posts protruding through the gums to hold the artificial teeth securely. Subperiosteal implants are often recommended for patients with insufficient jawbone density or those unable to undergo bone grafting procedures.

Benefits: Suitable for patients with reduced bone density. Minimally invasive compared to bone grafting. Supports the placement of prosthetic teeth without extensive surgery.

3. All-on-4 Implants: All-on-4 implants offer a comprehensive solution for patients missing an entire arch of teeth. This technique involves the placement of four implants per arch strategically positioned to support a complete set of fixed prosthetic teeth. All-on-4 implants provide stability, functionality, and aesthetics similar to natural teeth, often eliminating the need for bone grafting in some instances.

Benefits: Immediate restoration of a complete arch of teeth. We have reduced the need for bone grafting. It improved chewing ability and speech. It enhanced aesthetics and confidence.

4. Zygomatic Implants: Zygomatic implants are advanced dental implants used in cases where patients have severe bone loss in the upper jaw. These implants are anchored into the cheekbone (zygomatic bone) rather than the maxillary bone, providing stability and support for fixed prosthetic teeth.

Benefits: Ideal for patients with extensive bone loss in the upper jaw. Avoids the need for bone grafting procedures. Offers a reliable solution for fixed teeth restoration.

Understanding the different types of dental implants and their benefits allows individuals to make informed decisions about their dental restoration journey. Consulting with a qualified dental professional is essential to determine the most suitable implant type based on individual needs, ensuring successful and long-lasting results in restoring a natural-looking smile and improving oral health.

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Kimiko Agari, D.D.S., M.D., and Kristi Agari, D.M.D., M.D., are sisters who received training in the same oral and maxillofacial surgery program. I interviewed both Drs. Agari to understand their journeys into a surgical career.

Dr. Hung: You may be the only sisters who pursued a career in oral and maxillofacial surgery together and in the same residency program. Could you talk about your journey?

Kristi: Growing up, we were influenced by many family friends in the profession who told us that dentistry is a very good field. We lived in Stockton, California, where there’s a special accelerated dental track at the University of the Pacific. In high school, I explored other fields, taking business and art classes at the local community college and volunteering in different professions, to come back and see that dentistry was what I wanted to pursue.

Kimiko: I always knew that I wanted to pursue a health care career. I was obsessed with the show “House” and wanted to be a doctor like him. I loved the sciences, and biology was always my favorite class. I ultimately decided to pursue health care because it was a good combination of all of my interests and a way that I could help people. Like Kristi said, we had many family friends in the dental field, and they seemed very satisfied with their careers, so I think that influenced us to pursue that route. We both attended the University of the Pacific and participated in their pre-dental program, and afterward, we continued on to different dental schools. I went to the University of California, San Francisco, where I first discovered my passion for surgery. During my first year of dental school, I attended an event called Passing the Scalpel dedicated to inspiring the next generation of oral surgeons. The event consisted of a cadaver dissection lab where oral surgery residents demonstrated various types of procedures that included surgical approaches, dentoalveolar procedures, orthognathic surgery and complex trauma. It was my first introduction to the scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery.

Dr. Hung: How were your experiences during oral and maxillofacial surgery training at the University of Southern California?

Kristi: Our experiences were very positive. Our attendings at USC did a very good job of treating us as individuals. They are also sensitive to having women in the program. The experiences might not have been as positive if we weren’t on top of our game, working and studying hard, but I also think that being in residency together helped us be even better residents. We always had each other to discuss cases, study oral surgery topics and navigate residency together.

Kimiko: Kristi and I are two years apart, in age and in training. We get along so well, and we are very supportive of one another. If that was not the case and, for example, if there had been interpersonal issues that had translated into residency, then that would have been very challenging for other residents and attendings to manage and perhaps our experiences would not have been positive. But yes, we could not speak more positively about our experiences training together as sisters at USC. Doing residency with Kristi was the best part of residency. I highly recommend doing residency with your sister.

Dr. Hung: What are your current and short-term goals?

Kimiko: After graduating from residency, I did a fellowship in Charlotte, North Carolina, with Brian Farrell, D.D.S., M.D., at Carolina Centers for Oral and Facial Surgery in a wide range of oral and maxillofacial surgery procedures and with a focus on orthognathic surgery. I enjoy being in the operating room, and I knew I wanted orthognathic surgery to be a large part of my practice. I recently started working at Kaiser Permanente in Riverside, California, which has allowed me to pursue these interests and build my orthognathic practice. I do also have an interest in academics and believe there is a strong need for women in academic positions to provide mentorship and teach this next generation of residents. There is a lot more that we need to do in terms of fulfilling that role for women who are going through the process.

Kristi: I am currently in my chief year at the University of Southern California. After graduating, I plan to join Beacon Oral Specialists in Las Vegas, Nevada. I want to ease into my position at one of the offices while preparing for the board certification exam. I plan to take trauma call with my University of Nevada, Las Vegas mentor, Daniel Orr, D.D.S., Ph.D., J.D., M.D., who also trained at USC. Through our training at USC, we are very comfortable with managing facial trauma.

Dr. Hung: What is your support system to deal with stress during residency?

Kristi: I am very fortunate to have the most supportive family behind me. I could not have gotten through this residency without them. I lived with Kimiko during my first four years of residency. If I was struggling with anything, I could always talk to her. She is my older sister and we were going through the same residency training, so she completely understood me and what I was going through. My parents have been a strong guiding light in my life and have always empowered me to live with my head high and strive to be the best me that I can be. They were not without their conditions, and they had high expectations, encouraging me to always do my best, never be lazy and have a concise plan for whatever I chose to pursue.

Kimiko: Our residency program was our second family and a huge support system for me throughout my years at USC. I had one experience where a patient was very rude to me and directed many offensive comments to me, including “I don’t think women should be doctors,” “I want to speak with the other [male] doctor” and “if I find out you are part of my surgery, I’ll sue you.” I was a mix of incredibly angry, frustrated and upset. The next day, my senior resident gathered the team together to provide me encouragement and explain that this type of behavior was not to be tolerated from anyone, including patients. I was the only female resident on the team at that time. He was very supportive of me. That was probably the only major negative experience I have had as a woman in surgery. On a serendipitous note, I did a bedside drainage for a young woman later that same day, and afterwards she told me, “I’ve seen a lot of doctors, and you are the best doctor that I’ve ever had. Thank you so much for taking care of me and for being so caring and patient.”

My male colleagues were always very supportive, but at moments I struggled because at the time, I didn’t have many female mentors in surgery. If I had had that negative experience as a dental student, I would have been incredibly discouraged to pursue oral surgery. So, Kristi and I actually formed a group together we called Sisters in OMFS. We reached out to dental students at USC and other women in the oral surgery program. We gathered throughout the years for potlucks, dinners, social events and meetings to answer questions about oral surgery and provide guidance about the application process. The goal was simply to provide mentorship and support to other young women who were interested in oral surgery at various stages of training. A few of the sisters actually matched into oral and maxillofacial surgery this year.

Dr. Hung: What advice do you have for dental students who may be interested in surgery to prepare themselves to become better candidates?

Kimiko: Make sure you are truly passionate about oral and maxillofacial surgery. Residency is challenging, so if you don’t love it, it will wear you down and you may burn out. Make sure you do it for the right reasons and not because you are trying to prove something or because people are telling you to do it. Do as well on the Comprehensive Basic Science Examination as possible, as that can be a significant barrier for applicants. Then whatever you can to get your foot in the door. Go shadow, help out in the oral surgery clinic, meet residents and attendings. Sometimes people can be very cutthroat since it is a very competitive application process. But don’t be inconsiderate toward other applicants because those are your future colleagues. In (and after) residency, we are one big family, and we should be collaborative and supportive and kind to one another throughout the entire process, including during residency applications, because at the end of the day, we all have the same goal of taking care of patients in the best way possible.

Kristi: Put aside whether you are male or female. Every day, wake up in the morning and be the best individual you can be, regardless of your sex or gender. In my moments when I’ve felt beaten down by difficult cases, strenuous call schedules or lack of sleep, I remind myself that I chose to be here, I want to be here, and I try not to let the acute emotions make me forget how much I love what I do.

Dr. Hung: You mentioned mentorship earlier in the conversation. What is your take on finding good mentors?

Kimiko: There are a lot more resources available these days. The American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons has a women’s mentorship program. You can find mentors through your own dental school’s oral surgery programs. There are many conferences you can attend. You can even find a mentor through social media or the ADA Member App; I have had dental students contact me through Instagram, for example. But it does take work — you need to put yourself out there and go through some trial and error to find a good mentor.

Kristi: They say half the battle is showing up. There are many oral surgery meetings and learning opportunities across the country besides the AAOMS National Conference. You can become involved in meetings and symposiums at a regional and state level as well. Like Kimiko said, many surgeons have social media profiles. A few times now, I have approached and met surgeons at conferences, then messaged them about, say, tissue engineering or the related topic they were discussing and asked them for technique or protocol advice. You’d be just as surprised as I was to find that they are very responsive and happy to answer my questions. Put yourself out there, show up, and you may be surprised what you find.

Dr. Hung: Drs. Kimiko and Kristi Agari navigate the world with a positive attitude as they build a strong support system around them and pay it forward to serve others with mentorship opportunities. Gender should not matter in pursuit of surgery. Only true passion, focus and relentless hard work prevail in reaching the ultimate goal of excellent patient care.

via New Dentist Blog https://ift.tt/oBsDZEW