Keesler's implant dentistry clinic first advanced program in Air Force

Published Sept. 28, 2011
By Steve Pivnick
81st Medical Group Public Affairs

KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- The 81st Medical Group can claim another first: the Air Force's only advanced clinical program in implant dentistry.

Maj. (Dr.) Scott Lafont has the distinction of being the first dentist to participate in the one-year program. Arriving at Keesler from Randolph Air Force Base, Texas, in July, he is currently treating 30 patients in the 81st Dental Squadron clinic.

Lt. Col. (Dr.) Andre Henriques, dental laboratory flight commander and a prosthodontist, oversees the implant program as restorative mentor.

Lafont is a general dentist. The program is intended to train him and future candidates to serve as staff general dentists who can independently treat patients with uncomplicated dental implant needs. He explained, "There are a limited number of Air Force dentists credentialed to restore implants. This program hopes to supplement them."

He said that dental implant treatment can take six months to a year to complete, from initial planning to final restoration.

"If implant treatment is viable, the restorative dentist refers the patient to an oral surgeon or periodontist for surgical evaluation to determine if bone grafting or other procedures are required prior to, or in conjunction with, implant placement," Lafont explained. "After surgical consultation, the restorative doctor makes a specialized surgical guide which shows the surgeon exactly where to place the implant."

The restorative procedure involves making a final impression (mold), which is used to create a specialized dental stone replica of the patient's teeth and the implant, upon which a fixed dental prosthesis or crown is made. Crowns are made of either gold or porcelain.

Lafont's patients currently include active-duty military members who derive great benefit from this treatment. He and Henriques said the procedure could cost up to $4,500 in the civilian community.

While he is the first participant in the Keesler program, Lafont definitely isn't the last as candidates are being solicited to fill 2012 and 2013 openings.

Keesler’s implant dentistry clinic first advanced program in Air Force