A perfect material from a biological-medical point of view: ceramics.
Dr. Oliver Adolphs on biological dentistry.
Dr. Oliver Adolphs, MSc, has his own practice in Cologne where he works together with another dentist and a team of 8 assistants.
As a qualified dental technician specialized in implantology, biological dentistry and ceramic implants, Dr. Adolphs is a great supporter of biological dentistry. He likes to spend his spare time with his family or pursuing his hobby which is Asian martial arts.
Dr. Adolphs, do you buy your food in an organic supermarket?
We normally buy our food from local farmers. Anything we can’t get there, we buy from our favourite organic shop which is just around the corner.
Has there been an increase in your patients‘ demand for dental treatments with a natural approach?
Yes, there has definitely been a pronounced increase, especially concerning implants. Nowadays, patients are much better informed than they used to be. They have clear ideas in mind and they do not mind presenting their ideas to the dentist.
They research in the Internet and enquire with friends and family. Contrary to titanium, the use of ceramics is still a special niche, and I am pleased to say that a lot of patients are looking for exactly this niche. We serve this niche because at our practice, we truly believe that this is an excellent option.
The patients can see that we follow a holistic approach. This clearly distinguishes us from others, much to the benefit of our practice.
What does this biological approach entail and how does it affect the dental treatments carried out at your practice?
We work completely without metal at all times, and we do not use any foreign materials in the surgical sector. From a biological/medical aspect, ceramics are a perfect material. It is biocompatible and does not cause any metal-related intolerance which should not be underestimated as metal allergies are very common and can seriously affect the patient’s wellbeing.
Another advantage associated with ceramic is that it is extremely stable. The mucosa grows right up to the ceramic implant. The risk of bacteria settling on the implant, and consequently, the risk of periimplantitis, are therefore noticeably reduced.
Whenever you and your patients decide to opt for an all-ceramic restoration, would you say that this is predominantly due to the outstanding aesthetics offered by these restorations? From a purely medical or immunological aspect, of course not. But it can’t be denied that real teeth are white and not titanium grey. Even in case of receding gums there is no visible black titanium border. All-ceramic restorations are much more attractive and this does, of course, affect the patient’s decision.
Ceramic is not an easy material. How important is it, to already “think ceramic“ during preparation?
It is true to say that with ceramics, the way to the final restoration is often harder than with metal. The preparatory work is much more thorough and precise. The extreme hardness of ceramics does not tolerate any imprecisions. Ceramics are unable to conduct heat, which is why the preparation has to be carried out without pressure and the site has to be cooled with plenty of water. Ceramics do not tolerate edges, which is why any edges have to be rounded off. Ceramics place great demands on the skills of the dentist, but the benefit to the patient makes it all worthwhile.
How important are complete preparation sets for your daily work at the practice?
I am generally an enthusiastic Komet customer, and I really like their sets. I soon single out a few firm favourites which I then use on a regular basis. The instruments are super: well thought-out, precise and stable. For me, there is no alternative. One more thing: the ceramic bur K1SM is unbelievable, it lasts forever!
Dr. Adolphs, thank you for the interview.