|  The University of Minnesota School of Dentistry's newly renovated Center for Contemporary Dentistry was rededicated on November 21, 2006.
The center is an innovative partnership between the School of Dentistry and Patterson Dental Supply, Inc. of St. Paul. Equipped with the most current advances in dental innovations, the educational facility features CAD/CAM technologies, digital radiography, and some of the most comfortable dental chairs available, each with touchpad controls to operate the chair, an integrated scaler, curing light, intraoral camera, and chairside monitor. The latest in infection control equipment is also in place, including a state-of-the-art autoclave, washer-disinfector, and handpiece maintenance system, plus knee- and toe-kick- operated sinks and cabinets.
“This facility is one of the most advanced dental technology experiences for dental students in the nation,” said Patrick Lloyd, professor and dean of the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry.
In addition to introducing students to advanced technologies, the center provides an opportunity for dental students to work with a dental assistant and learn a team approach to patient care that maximizes efficiency and is known as four-handed dentistry.
Ergonomic considerations were also considered as the center was being designed and equipped. According to Scott Anderson, president of Patterson Dental, “Students will get the opportunity to experience dentistry at the highest level of efficiency and productivity.”
Other advanced aspects of the Center for Contemporary Dentistry are intended to benefit patients. In addition to state-of-the-art dental chairs, a variety of educational videos in easy-to-understand language will be available for patients to learn about treatments ranging from root canals to removal of wisdom teeth. Patient records will also be stored in the most up-to-date electronic formats.
“As the only dental school in the northern tier of states between Wisconsin and the Pacific Northwest, we’re responsible for educating the next generation of dental professionals for the region,” said Lloyd. “Our goal is to prepare them for the dental practice they’ll encounter when they graduate and as they move forward in their careers.”
The center will also be available for use by practicing dental professionals who attend the School of Dentistry Continuing Dental Education programs.
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