APO’s 7th General Meeting (2008-2010)

By Dr Connie Ong

APO’s 7th general meeting was held last January 27, 2010 at the Rockwell Club, Makati headed by the Manila Cell Group 3. The meeting started with an invocation and national anthem followed by the welcoming address of Dr. Jose Manuel Rivera, APO President for 2008-2010. After the reports of various committee chairs, Dr. Ramona Locsin introduced our speakers for the day, Dr. Cristina Lagaya-Estrada and Dr. Dennis Lim.

Dr. Cristina Estrada lectured on “Guidelines on Surgical Exposure of Impacted Maxillary Canine.” She taught us that proper diagnosis of a tooth’s position and formation are essential in determining the success or failure of a surgical exposure. Different surgical techniques were also taught to help us discern which procedure will be ideal for a case to avoid any detrimental effects to the surrounding tissues.

The lecture was then followed by Dr. Dennis Lim about “The Biomechanics of Retrieving Impacted or Unerupted Teeth: A Simplified Technique.”  He had very interesting cases that showed how we can carefully retrieve the unerupted teeth using different treatment approaches. Emphasis was given not only on the importance of retrieving the teeth and moving them into their proper positions but in keeping the surrounding tissues healthy as well.

It was indeed a very educational day for all of us as we learned from the clinical experiences of our renowned speakers. I am sure that these will help us improve our skills and update our knowledge as we practice our profession and improve the lives of our patients. To God be the Glory!