By Leonard Hess, DDS
A frequent question from dentists is, “What is the difference between The Dawson Academy’s Philosophy and that of the Las Vegas Institute (LVI).”
The main difference between what we teach at The Dawson Academy and at LVI is respect for the anatomical position of the joint. LVI creates treatment plans irrespective of the joint position. Muscles want to seat the joint to create a physically advantaged position from which to function. That is the only way all the muscles (most importantly the lateral pterygoid) can work properly. There are indications for NM dentistry, but there are very few of them.
The principles of complete dentistry taught at the Dawson Academy are a frame with which you can build a career and practice. It applies to single units and right on up the ladder to bigger cases. The goal is always to protect patients’ health and increase the longevity of their dentition.
Being able to diagnose issues of stability before they cause serious damage is very gratifying. I gain much more from helping to keep people out of the chair than I do from helping a person with major issues.
At The Dawson Academy we will give you the skills to help people at any single point in the spectrum of health.
Want more information on differences in dental continuing education philosophies? Read The Dawson Difference by Dr. Scott Finlay.
