Developments in Dental and Maxillofacial Surgical Research

Abstract

Since ancient times, dental and maxillofacial surgery has evolved from a carnival attraction to an academic science and profession. By the late 1940s, medical science had accepted dental and oral surgery as an almost independent unit. The resulting increase of dental surgical research greatly advanced the profession. The changes and improvements not only benefited the professionals, but also influenced the patients’ welfare and well-being. Now advanced technologies, such as implants, microsurgical techniques, and CAD/CAM, are entering the dental office. Despite these developments, it must be remembered that all techniques and new procedures have to serve the dental and general health of the patient.