Dentistry's Best Kept Secret by Dr Lawrence A Saunders

Dr. Saunders writes in depth on the world of oral surgery. He discusses how it evolved from general dentistry in the mid 1800's. Physicians first realized a need for more concentrated training in the field of dentistry. As with any debate within the field of medicine, colleagues put up, or branched off. General physicians were afraid that they might disfigure their patients, subsequently shying away from facial or oral surgeries.
Thus, dentistry and oral surgery developedin the best interest of patient care.
He encourages patients with specific disorders to see oral surgeons first for treatment. He lists several disorders that are best treated by oral surgeons. This includes and jaw or bone problems.
If you want to know details and in depth knowledge of specific conditions, then this book is helpful. Implantology, facial and jaw trauma, dental infections, impacted teeth and preprosthetic conditions are talked about. His precautionary advice on wisdom/impactful teeth was insightful. Did you know that the best age for removal of impacted teeth was 16? The earlier the removal, the less complications.
He explains how going to a specialist is cheaper in the long run. His thoughts on insurance plans are curious to me.

Dr. Saunders suggests who to consult conditions and what to look for when selecting a dentist.

I learned treatment protocols for some oral disorders. As a patient, I never concerned myself with these protocols. I left it to the professionals. Having learned more, I feel that it helped me become more aware.

The title didn't deliver what it promised. In some way, I thought the "best kept" secrets would be the failure of dentistry to discuss nutrition, the hazards of soda, or processed, refined foods. It did not. I feel it let me into the oral surgery world, but didn't reveal anything new.

Therefore, if you want clarity on the functions and importance oral surgeons, this book is for you. Dr. Saunders writes very clearly and the book is easy to understand. His goal was to educate and clarify and he accomplished that.

There is no index.

His last statement concludes "It is a good thing for you that they exist and a good thing for them to feel appreciated by you." Yes, they serve a critical function in the health industry, but hasn't the patient been through enough?

I received a complimentary review copy of "Dentistry's Best Kept Secrets" as a member of the Dorrance Publishing Book Review Team. Visit [...] to learn more on how you can become a member of the Book Review Team.

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