Saliva contains calcium that can remineralize or repair the weakened tooth substance, possibly avoiding the need for filling decay in enamel or the outer dentin. Fluoride in toothpaste and drinking water aids in this repair process. Benn, a strong advocate of prevention, emphasizes that patients should not assume the role of the dentist and that all patients cannot be treated in the same manner. Preliminary results from a questionnaire on the site indicate that patients and dentists are willing to agree to have their decay monitored over time to avoid fillings. Miles E. Kuttler, D.M.D., associate professor of restorative dentistry at Nova Southeastern University s College of Dental Medicine, said Benn s site reflects the future of dental education.
Web site is a giant step toward the future of dentistry.
It may take a generation of new dentists to fully implement this medical approach to dental care. Visitors to the Web site are asked to fill out the brief, anonymous questionnaire.