Academy of Laser Dentistry conference starts strong on day two

It’s all about respect.

That was Dr. Kim Kutsch’s message at his keynote address on minimally invasive dentistry Friday morning. His presentation kicked off day two of the Academy of Laser Dentistry’s 19^th annual conference in Arizona.

“It boils down to respect for the original healthy tissue,” he said. “Whatever we replace it with won’t look or function as well.”

Dr. Kutsch talked to the group about his experiences with minimally invasive dentistry and how patients are so appreciative of the little, noninvasive procedures you can do to enhance their smiles. These procedures can be life changing. He also hit on the importance of behavioral management. Getting patients to self report and making sure you’re asking the right questions will lead to more case acceptance. Get patients to the point where they’re asking you “what are we going to do about this." If they look to you as a coach, as a partner in their care, they’ll be more likely to accept treatment, make the necessary life changes and succeed.

The day continued with a presentation from Jeema Dad, this year’s recipient of the Dr. Eugene Seidner Student Scholarship, more courses on MID, lectures on lasers in implant dentistry, classes designed specifically for hygienists and courses that focused on pedo and ortho.

The conference ends on Saturday, but not before attendees have the chance to take in more CE, visit with the many exhibitors and celebrate at the 20^th Anniversary Kickoff Party. The 20^th anniversary conference is set for Feb. 7-9 2013 in Palm Springs, Calif.