Lasers in prosthodontics: clinical realities of a dental laser in a prosthodontic practice.

Steven D. Spitz, is a Prosthodontist and has just celebrated his 12-year anniversary as owner and practitioner of Smileboston Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry. He received his undergraduate degree at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, attended a general practice residency in Miami in the Jackson Memorial Hospital/VA program and received his prosthodontic training in the Harvard School of Dental Medicine/VA program. He continues to teach part-time in Harvard’s postdoctoral prosthodontic department. Dr. Spitz has lectured locally, nationally and internationally for over 10 years on the topics of implant dentistry, laser dentistry, and more recently on the development and technique of digital impressions. In 2004 he received the award for ’Leadership and Outstanding Contributions in Advancing Dentistry through Laser Technology’ at the World Clinical Laser Institute Symposium for developing a technique of placing dental implants through the use of the Waterlase laser. At that time, he also received his Masters certificate in the use of dental lasers. Dr. Spitz is currently president and regent of the Boston AO Alumni chapter, is on the board of Bright Spirit Children’s Foundation and has been extensively involved in the Boys and Girls Club of Chelsea, MA. He lives in Needham, MA with his wife Laurie and their three children Hayden, Jocelyn and Kayla. T he specialty of prosthodontics takes all concepts of dentistry and integrates effective comprehensive treatment planning. The practice will necessarily include a wide variety of patients seeking a diverse range of care. These include individuals who are highly fearful of dentistry and have long-term neglected care and those who have complex medical histories and require more specialized, advanced procedures. Some also have phobias and/ or allergies to anesthetics. Lasers have become an integral part of treatment for these patients.