As healthcare providers, there are times when dentists may find themselves involved in more than providing beautiful smiles. Dentists can play roles in patients' healthcare issues that go beyond the oral cavity. Because dentists are medical professionals whom patients may visit two or three times a year, opportunities can arise for a dentist to be "part of the solution" when it comes to a patient's overall health.

For example, dentists can be instrumental in aiding patients diagnosed with head and neck cancer. In addition to managing the patient's oral health before, during, and after cancer treatment, a dentist's role includes helping to prevent complications, detecting suspicious lesions, and referring patients to specialists. In this issue of Compendium we feature a continuing education (CE) article on the dental management of patients undergoing head and neck cancer treatment. The article discusses the pathophysiology of this type of cancer and the different orofacial complications to which these patients are prone. It explains the medical management of head and neck cancer patients and describes the communication that is needed with the oncologist regarding the patient's regimens and treatments. By taking an active role in the their patients' health issues, dentists can help limit the negative effects of this life-threatening disease.

Other articles this month feature a range of innovative approaches and techniques to providing patient solutions. The second CE discusses root resection, which clinicians can utilize as an effective means to save a multirooted tooth. With this procedure, a functional state can be achieved for the tooth for the long term, and it's also a potential cost-effective alternative to implant therapy.

Two interesting techniques are showcased in our clinical reports. One, known as the liquid pin technique, is a novel method to pick-up prefabricated CAD/CAM-designed screw-retained provisional prostheses for immediate full-arch rehabilitations. The other clinical report describes a fully guided socket-shield technique for immediate implant placement.

When it comes to patient care, dentists should always strive to be part of the solution. Sometimes this means stretching beyond our usual boundaries and seeking ways to help our patients overcome any health hurdles they may face. I am hopeful that you'll benefit from this issue of Compendium.

Sincerely,

Markus B. Blatz, DMD, PhD
Editor-in-Chief
markus.blatz@conexiant.com