The examiners evaluate cases based on a point system that identifies minor, major, and catastrophic faults. A passing score is -7 or better. The examiners are also given the latitude to reward the candidate with a +1 point, in situations where the result deserves additional merit. Dr. Shimizu’s case passed unanimously with scores that ranged from -5 to -7. Almost all of the criteria faults were identified as minor and two examiners rewarded Dr. Shimizu with a +1. No case is perfect; the goals of Accreditation are to create a vision and demonstration of excellence, not perfection.

Dr. Shimizu achieved a wonderful result for his patient. The preoperative indications for treatment supported the final treatment plan. Dr. Shimizu extended treatment to include eight teeth because of the clinical indications. The indications for treatment are driven by the functional and health needs of the patient. Dr. Shimizu followed an established treatment protocol that helped to ensure a predictable result.

The examiners identified several common deficiencies in this case; often, these criteria are inter-related:

• One of the initial observations was the excessive length of connectors and the effect this had on the periodontal health and architectural harmony (Criteria #64, #71, and #72). An accepted guideline that is observed in nature relates to the proportion and size of the apparent contact zone or connectors between adjacent teeth. Typically, the ideal connector zone between the central incisors is 50% of the length of the centrals.1 The size of these connectors decreases in a symmetrical fashion as you move posterior. The effect of excessive connector length in this case appears to contribute to the impingement upon the cervical embrasures and the blunting of the papilla.

The comprehensive understanding of materials, preparation designs, and adhesive techniques should facilitate conservation of tooth structure while still meeting the parameters of function and health.

The apparent contact zone between the centrals is ideally 50% of the visual length of the centrals. Connectors between the centrals and laterals are 40% of this length, and the connectors between the laterals and cupids are 30% of this length (50/40/30 rule). The management of the facial line angles can have a significant impact on the visual reveal of the tooth. examiners noted the asymmetry of gingival zeniths, papilla heights, and inflammation of the tissue.

• Criteria #87 focuses on the visual harmony of contralateral teeth. The examiners identified a lack of symmetry of the visual width of the lateral incisors. This requires the careful management of the facial line angles and can be readily identified from the occlusal vie).2 Although the occlusal view is not how teeth are typically viewed in a social setting, it is a valuable perspective in helping to appreciate the impact that these line angles have on the reflective surfaces of the teeth. In this case, the occlusal view is helpful in visualizing why the facial plane of #10 appears narrower compared to #7. The cuspids also lack similar balance in contour and shape.

• Criteria #56 identifies the effectiveness in utilizing translucency to mimic nature and to harmonize with the balance of the smile.3 Several of the examiners found the intensity, volume, and pattern of the translucency to be slightly excessive and not reflective of what would otherwise be observed in nature.
Accreditation presents a consistent measurement of excellence in providing esthetic functional restorations of our patients’ smiles.

Dr. Shimizu has demonstrated his ability to meet this standard. He should be very proud of the result he achieved for his patient.

Allison Cole

If you can’t imagine going to the dentist and having an enjoyable experience then you should definitely visit Dr. Finlay’s office. His staff is not only professional but courteous and friendly too. They go out of their way each and every visit so that your experience is as enjoyable as can be. From the point of walking in the door and being greeted by friendly staff to the dental chair and the comforts of his state of the art equipment gives you the comfort and feeling they know what they are doing. You know when you sit in the chair you have no worries about the process and great result that Dr. Finlay and staff will perform. I would and have recommended Dr. Finlay and his staff too many people.  -

Steve Dannemann

I guess you could say that I have a “love-hate” relationship with Dr. Finlay and his staff! From my very first visit about 16 years ago, everyone in the office has treated me with the utmost respect and has been very sensitive to my needs and fears relating to my dental work. From Mary, Connie and Cindy at the front desk, to the hygienists to Dr. Finlay-they all take the time to listen to what I have to say and always make me feel like I am not just a patient but a friend as well. Believe it not, they make me WANT to go back! That is the highest praise they could ever get from me! As much as I dislike just walking into the dentist office, I realize that without their complete and thorough care, ongoing encouragement, wonderful chairside manor and humor, I would not have the smile that I have today! Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Susan Schmicker

I love the improved me. The entire experience with Dr. Finlay and his staff was exceptional. I can smile again!

Edith Barton

“She always has a smile and a friendly greeting for you,” would be consistent comment from those who know me. Through the care and precision of Dr. Finlay & Associates I will continue to smile confidently and won’t be able to contain my joy over my new smile.   Thanks,

Dawn Carter

Dental Implants Can Replace One or All Missing Teeth
Dental implants can be used to replace one tooth, missing as a result of trauma or congenital defect. For patients missing several teeth, dental implants may also be prescribed either alone or in combination with a dental bridge. Some patients who are missing or at risk of losing all of their upper or lower teeth may also be candidates for dental implants. Using the Teeth In A Day procedure, a patient can have all of their teeth replaced using dental implants and a fixed denture to restore natural function and esthetics.

Failing to Plan is Planning to Fail
Ninety percent of all failures are a result of improper, inadequate or absence of planning. Treatment planning is especially critical in the dental implant process. Most dental implants procedures are a coordinated effort between a restorative dentist or cosmetic dentist and an oral surgeon or periodontist. It is important to select restorative dentist or cosmetic dentist who has specific experience working with dental implants. During this process, the restorative dentist will act like a quarterback, mapping out a plan for the whole team to follow to ensure predictable and successful results.

Technology is Great…If You Know How to Use It
While the latest and greatest technology can be very helpful to dentist when performing a dental implant procedure, if you don’t know how to use the technology correctly or interpret the data it transmits, then the technology is useless. Technology can not replace education, practical training and hands on experience. Used inappropriately, technology will only get you into trouble faster.

Dr. Finlay: The Right Training, The Right Experience and The Right Tools
Dr. Finlay & Associates have over 25 years experience treating patients successfully with dental implants. Dr. Finlay can replace one tooth using dental implants or an entire set of upper or lower teeth using the Teeth In A Day process. Comprehensive treatment planning is at the heart of Dr. Finlay’s practice. He carefully evaluates each patient, considering all factors – esthetic, functional and financial to determine the most conservative and appropriate treatment modality.
Never satisfied with the status quo, Dr. Finlay is dedicated to post graduate training and excelling in the field of modern dentistry. He is a Senior Faculty member of The Dawson Academy where he teaches and collaborates with the nation’s top dentists. Dr. Finlay is also an Accredited Fellow of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, an esteemed title held by fewer than fifty dentists in the entire United States. He is the only Accredited Fellow in the Annapolis area.
To remain on the cutting edge of dental implant technology, Dr. Finlay works with the finest dental laboratories in the country and the leading oral surgeons in the Baltimore Annapolis region. This team approach ensure the best results for each patient. Dr. Finlay employs state-of-the-art technology including iCat radiographs for 3-D imaging and CAD/CAM, computer aided design and manufacturing for creating precise restorations. His training, experience and collaboration with other top professionals within the dental industry ensure he has the skills to put these technologies to their best and fullest use.

If you have missing teeth, contact the office of Scott Finlay, DDS & Associates, PA to schedule a consultation and learn more about what treatments, including dental implants, are right for you.

Question 1: Just because I see it (diagnosis it) doesn’t mean my patients will want to treat it (even acute, painful, or blatant problems they are aware of gets put on the back burner).
Question 2: How much of the first course can I use immediately to make me a better clinician?
Question 3: If I am not able to take all of the courses will I still be better than if I took none of the courses?

Scott Finlay, DDS, FAGD, FAACD
The philosophies that are the core of The Dawson Academy are not about practicing a different kind of dentistry, but practicing better, more predictable, complete care for your patients. The understanding, skills and protocols that you will master as a student in the core curriculum will improve your efficiency, productivity and profitability as a dentist.

You are correct that every patient that has treatment needs, may not elect to pursue treatment: some due to financial reasons, some due to personal reasons, some due to value reasons.  In your practice you will initially experience a large percentage of patients that will be seeking general care, but there will be some that elect comprehensive care.  You need to be patient.  Over time you will find increasingly, more and more of your patients will begin to transition to comprehensive solutions.  It is their role to make those decisions and not ours.  It is our role however, to educate them and to be their advocate for the best care possible.  I think you will be surprised by your patient’s interest in seeking quality care.  That doesn’t mean a full mouth reconstruction with ceramics every time.  Whether treatment is provided with plastic or glass; with implants or removable dentures, the principles are the same in providing predictable care.

Predictable care at any level will improve your profitability and efficiency by reducing time wasted with remakes or fractured restorations that are never practice builders or make patients happy.  Your experiences with the Dawson Academy will help you make recommendations to your patients that are in their best interest.

You will find the information you learn from the very first program to be infectious and very useful to return to your practice.  The entire Senior Faculty of The Dawson Academy are wet fingered dentists that each have full time practices.  That is unique to our organization.  The knowledge is practical and allows you to return to the chair on Monday with a fresh vision.  I can tell you this from personal experience, because this changed my professional life and laid the ground for my success in dentistry.

The pace you pursue your education is up to you.  If you want to be efficient, I would recommend staying with a single teaching academy and focus on a continuum that is consistent.  Hopping around from day program to day program from varying academies, gives you very little opportunity to get down to the real nuts and bolts and actually make a difference in your practice.  The Dawson Academy offers this opportunity in our core curriculum that builds upon each successive program.

Doing nothing would be the only mistake.  You will become what you learn.  By failing to make the initiative to learn, you are losing a tremendous opportunity.

Kavita,
 
You certainly speak for us all about how generous Scott was with his time, knowledge and energy. It is always so refreshing to see both humility and excellence in an individual and he certainly is a fine example of that combination. We are lucky to have had him speak at a DSCCD meeting and I hope that we have another occasion to host him.
 
It is very gratifying for both Raj and myself to see DSCCD grow into a place where quality minded professionals get together and learn- not just about dentistry but about life in general as well. That was the vision and mission. You add grace and class to the study club and hopefully will be a big part of our future growth and development.
 
And yes, we could’nt do it without Lydia. She’s the best.
 
Thank you for your feedback,
 
Have an awesome weekend!
Sunita

Dr. Sunita Merriman was recently voted as one of NJ’s Top Dentists in 2010!

Composite fillings are made up of a resin that contains tiny pieces of quartz. This can be sized and shaped to imitate the surface of a tooth. The result is very natural looking and many people are electing to replace old metal fillings with composites.

The first step to a composite filling is removing the current filling and any other decay or weakness that may be present. The composite is then molded into shape, adjusted for bite and sealed into place with a bonding material. The procedure takes longer than a standard filling but generally has longer lasting results, as a composite can restore a tooth to near its original integrity.

Composite fillings are very durable and will last for years. They provide comfort while eating and will blend with the other teeth to make a nice, bright smile. Many patients feel more confident after receiving composite fillings and have far fewer problems in the long term than with old style metal fillings, which have a tendency to leak or fall out especially if the tooth is further damaged or just weakens with age.

Any cosmetic dentist can install a composite filling, however, it is in the patient’s best interest to research and choose a dentist that is very experienced and only uses the very best materials. Everyone deserves a healthy, beautiful white smile and composite fillings are a good step toward this goal.

“This was my first time having Candy as my hygienist (ever or in a long time? – that I can remember) and I really enjoyed her. She was efficient, thorough and gentle. And not overly chatty! Thank you.
    March Bishop

“Your Dentist office is exceptional. I am always impressed by the professionalism, cleanliness, and aesthetically pleasing environment. It is quite evident that your staff anticipates the needs of your patients. I particularly like the fact that you are prevention focused. On more than one occasion I have had my blood pressure checked in your office. This is health care at its best…integrating health promotion into your specialty practice. I am also impressed by the up to date, current knowledge of your staff. Again, thank you for keeping your office in such wonderful condition and for your expertise.”
    Kim Stauffer

“Candy is the best. She does an outstanding job. Mary and Connie are also extremely helpful and go out of their way to resolve any issues.”
    Scott Priebe

“I’ve found everyone on your staff to be friendly, courteous, and very professional. I’ve been a patient for close to two years now, and I wouldn’t think of going anywhere else! I really like everyone there, and its always a good experience.”
    Tony Hawkins

“As always, great to be greeted by name by all the people at your office. I feel my family and I are not just patients but friends also.”
    Cecilia Flores

                                                Ken Sevec

 “All the ladies at the front desk are pleasant and very efficient. Candy is at the top of the list of all the dental hygienist I have seen in my long life. She is very pleasant, informative, and efficient.”

                                                John Sherin

 “Your staff is wonderful.”

                                                Denise Drake

“I’ve always been extremely pleased with the service I receive in your office. The staff is tremendous; warm and friendly.”

                                                Chris Kinter

 “Love the serviced and all the staff. I always feel like I’m in good hands. Major work is expensive, though. I know, I know, you get what you pay for. However, my pension is $900 a month after 30 years of teaching. I’ve recommended Dr. Finlay to friends with pretty good financial resources and after checking, they tell me the prices are too steep for them.”

                                                Jean Shirk

 “Previously I had always dealt with Dr. Finlay. This visit Dr. McLellan reviewed my films. He was very personable and informed. I was glad that I did not feel like I had been seen by a second-string doctor.”

                                                 Mary Carkhuff

“I enjoy coming to your practice and getting my teeth cleaned. I know I am in expert hands and will receive excellent service and care.”

                                                Madeleine Bowden

“Each person I met during my visit was professional and friendly. I appreciated the atmosphere of the office.”
     Janet Loveless

“Team Finlay constantly exceeds expectations in every way, from the greeting from Mary and Connie to their goodbyes. And Dr. Finlay had me at “hello”.”
     Martha Coster

“Candy is amazing. I have always appreciated her friendship, her kindness and professionalism over the years. Dr. Dan is wonderful too! Did I mention the office staff…I love you too!”
     Sandi Reiger Stultz

“Being in the military I have had my teeth worked on all over the world. I can honestly say your office is the cleanest and friendliest office I have ever used. Dr. McLellan explained everything so thoroughly, and at a level I could understand that is the most comfortable I have ever felt in the dentist chair. Thank you again for a great visit, my family and I will be using this office only for our dental needs.”
     Richard Romanowski

“Excellent, most friendly, and very pleasant. Thank you so much!”
     Rev. Stephen Gosnell

“Candy continues to do a terrific job and really cares. She’s a great asset!”
     Skid Heyworth

“Pleasant visit as always. Very professional and efficient. Thanks.”
     Leo Wilson