CAD/CAM systems are essential to modern dentistry. But how do the more than 5,000 students who graduate from the 66 dental schools in the United States learn how to use the most up-to-date technologies? That’s where Henry Schein Inc. is stepping in.
The company has partnered with the American College of Prosthodontists Education Foundation (ACPEF) to commit $1.25 million to develop an American College of Prosthodontists (ACP) curriculum that incorporates CAD/CAM technology.
The ACPEF Digital Dentistry Curriculum Initiative will be offered to dental students and practicing dentists through continuing education programs. Several dental schools are expected to pilot it beginning in 2017.
“By rallying the industry to ensure that dental students are fully educated on the practice benefits and patient benefits of digital dentistry, we are helping the dentists of tomorrow succeed,” said Stanley M. Bergman, chairman of the board and CEO of Henry Schein.
Only 15% of dental practices in the United States use CAD/CAM technology, according to the ACP. One recent study by the ACP found that the lack of available education and training about its applications and benefits among users is inhibiting its adoption.
“Digital dentistry is transforming patient experiences, as well as opening up incredible new pathways that support excellence, improved workflows, greater productivity, and, importantly, better care for our patients,” said Dr. Lyndon Cooper, chair of the ACPEF.
“The best patient care begins with the best educational tools, and for the profession of dentistry, the best possible tools are digital,” said Dr. Robert Gottlander, vice president of global prosthetic solutions at Henry Schein.
Planmeca, 3Shape, Glidewell, BioHorizons, and CAMLOG also are contributing financial support to the ACPEF Digital Dentistry Curriculum Initiative. For more information, go to henryschein.com or prosthodontics.org.
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