Every person is entitled to his or her opinions on any subject. I respect Dr. Woods’ opinions. However, it is very obvious that I do not agree with them. Certain areas in my own specialty are usually best handled by prosthodontists. However, there are excellent general dentists who accomplish many complex prosthodontic services extremely well.
In a similar line of thinking, I have had occasion to speak at many orthodontic seminars where orthodontic specialists have taught general dentists, pediatric dentists and others to accomplish minimal orthodontic procedures. The result has been excellent. Such encounters allow general dentists to become more knowledgeable about orthodontics. This information and experience provides better ability to refer more complex cases and to provide service to the many people who do not have access to, or cannot afford, conventional orthodontic therapy by specialists.
Orthodontics is a highly respected specialty area. It has had decades of service to the public. There is no question that orthodontic specialists have more education and experience than typical general dentists but, using my own specialty as an example, there are some general dentists who have as much experience and education as some board-certified prosthodontists. In such cases, professionalism should rule and, regardless of specialty, the practitioner should treat only those cases with which he or she feels competent.
My own professional judgment has guided me over my career. If I can honestly say that I can treat any given condition as well as anyone in my community, I will accomplish that therapy. If, on the other hand, I observe the patient’s condition and, in my best judgment, I know that I cannot treat this patient as well as others in my community, I should refer that patient.
