Joe Blaes, DDS, Editor
e-mail: [email protected]
I am on the road again, returning from the annual meeting of the American Society for Dental Aesthetics (ASDA). This group was founded almost 25 years ago by Dr. Irwin Smigel to promote the art and science of esthetic dentistry through continual study. The meeting is smaller and more intimate, offering many networking opportunities. The speakers were limited to less than two hours for their presentations. As a result, the sessions were loaded with information and great images to make it all more understandable. The session ended with an afternoon of small, hands-on courses that were outstanding. It was really difficult to decide which one to attend.
The 2001 session (the 25th anniversary) has a great lineup of speakers and will be held in New York City in the fall. Congratula-tions to a good friend, Dr. Connie Baker, who achieved diplomate status in the ASDA at this meeting.
You may have noticed that the Technology in Dentistry column was missing from last month`s issue. I am sorry to announce that Dr. Larry Emmott has resigned to follow other pursuits. I was in dire need of someone to continue the column that keeps you updated on the latest dental high-tech toys. Then I remembered Dr. Paul Feuerstein, who has written for me before on computer hardware. We met in Chicago at the ADA meeting, and I was very impressed with his knowledge of the technology world. I know you will enjoy the fresh perspective that Paul brings to the many computer-driven systems that are marketed to the dental profession.
Now is a great time to start your planning for continuing education in 2001. I urge you to consider Dental Economics` Cosmetic Dentistry 2001, which will be held in Las Vegas on February 8-9. This meeting has something for everyone - clinical speakers for the doctors, a special group of speakers for the hygienists, a special track for the clinical dental assistant, and a great group of practice management speakers. All of these lectures will emphasize cosmetic dentistry. This is a must meeting if you are interested in expanding your practice into cosmetics.
In addition to a great lineup of outstanding speakers, I am happy to announce another limited attendance seminar during CD2001. I will be teaching a hands-on workshop on veneer preparation. I will talk about the principles involved in preparing teeth for simple and complex veneer cases. This course will be offered on Friday afternoon, and you must register in advance. It will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis for a small, additional fee to cover supplies and models. I am sure that this course will fill up quickly, so don`t delay.
Our family joined together during Thanksgiving this year. Two of our four children live outside the St. Louis area, and they came for what was a festive occasion. It gave me a chance to see all eight of my grandchildren, aged three months to 13 years - six boys and two girls.
Sue fixed turkey and all the extras. We have a tradition of fixing my grandfather`s recipe for chestnut dressing that has been passed down over the years. He brought it with him from Belgium to New York in 1906. It is said that he used it as a chef at the Waldorf Astoria during that era. It is a wonderful blend of pork sausage, bread, celery, onions, and chestnuts that leaves everyone asking for more. The turkey comes as a side dish!
Sue and I really look forward to the holidays and these very special times with our family. Since six of our grandchildren are under the age of six, this is a magical time of the year for them. I feel like we are able to relive our own holiday experiences again through the eyes of the kids. I hope that you and yours will enjoy many fond memories this year. God bless you all.
