Counterpoint: The 21st-century paradigm for recognition of dental specialties is not much different than the existing paradigm.

Background: The basis and rationale for recognition of specialties in the health care-related professions are similar. Recognition criteria are common across health care-related professions and include the demonstrated ability to form a certifying board, a distinct and well-defined field that requires unique knowledge and skills beyond general professional education, knowledge and skills that are separate and distinct from any other specialty, active contribution to research needs of the profession, direct benefit to some aspect of patient care, and the existence of formal, advanced education programs. A new paradigm that has been outlined does not appear to be significantly different from this existing paradigm.

Restoring erosion associated with gastroesophageal reflux using direct resins: case report.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition where stomach acids are chronically regurgitated into the esophagus and oral cavity, resulting in pathology, such as esophagitis, varices or ulcers. Continual exposure of the teeth to these acids can also cause severe dental erosion. This condition frequently is asymptomatic, and the only evident sign may be the irreversible erosion of tooth structure.