Material selection challenges for a new dentist

A common question we get from new dentists is how do I select the best materials for my patients? As a new dentist in those first few years out of dental school, I think we’re often relying upon resources to help us make decisions.

Experience is the best teacher

The challenge is that our resources at that point are pretty much academically based because we don’t really have much in the way of anecdotal experience to be able to say, “Well, that’s worked in my hands,” or maybe, “It hasn’t worked in my hands.”

Stick with proven manufacturers

So I think in the decision making, when we’re choosing materials to provide restorative solutions for our patients, it’s important that we stay with manufacturers and materials that are proven. In other words, materials that are hallmark pieces of what is used in every day practice.

Get advise from technicians

I think you can lean a little more heavily upon our colleagues at the lab bench at the same time because their knowledge and experience of working with other clinicians and effectively using materials predictably can be a help in providing solutions for your patients. I hope you find this helpful.

To learn more about material selection, functional esthetics, and communicating with specialists, register for the course Achieving Predictable Esthetic Results.