Legends in Endodontics
By: Austin L. Perera, D.M.D., M.B.S.
With endodontics changing all of the time, the committee believes in the importance of honoring the specialities’ past. In an attempt to do just that, the committee has selected four endodontists to interview. These individuals will open up windows to the past and can share with us just how much endodontics has changed, why their mentors were so imperative to their development and what young endodontists should do to ensure success.
Robert B. Amato, D.M.D.
Tufts University School of Dental Medicine
Chairman of the Department of Endodontics
Program Director of Post-graduate Endodontics
Q: When and where did you complete your endodontic training?
A: Tufts University in 1983.
Q: Where have you practiced during your career?
A: I practiced in Providence, RI while I completed my GPR. Once I completed my endodontic training, I practiced in the Boston area, exclusively.
Q: Tell me a little about your endodontic mentors.
A: My mentors were my teachers at Tufts University and in my practice. Drs. Joseph Tenca and Mel Goldman ran our department and program at Tufts. I met Drs. Van Zissi and Tom Winkler at Tufts as my clinical teachers and eventually my partners in practice. Drs. Al Krakow and Joel Dunsky were also my practice partners and taught me so much. All of these mentors went out of their way to be sure I understood endodontics at all levels. My most recent mentor is Dr. Dan Green, who has given me the opportunity and guidance in my role as a full time educator. I’ve been very lucky to have had such great mentors. I’d would not have the success I’ve had without any of them.
Q: Why is it important for residents and new practitioners to have a mentor?
A: Endo is hard; practice is hard; the real world is unforgiving. Mentors help you navigate the path of your life with their combined experiences and sage advice. Find a good mentor as a resident and young practitioner and rely on their vast knowledge.
Q: In your opinion, how has endodontics changed over time?
A: We’ve gone from a technique-based specialty to a science and technique specialty. The explosion of basic science knowledge has improved our training programs and clinical care. Technology has made endo much more precise. When I finished my endodontic training we got excited when we used hedstrom files, look at us now!
Q: How do you see the future landscape of the specialty?
A: Every profession and specialty encounters challenges, and we are no different. The varied modes of endodontic delivery are changing. Endo must be sure to stay in the conversation with the many practice styles. It is our responsibility to ensure that endo is properly done and taught to the highest standards. We need to be the arbiters of the standard of care in endodontics and be involved in every aspect of dentistry to monitor this.
Q: If you could encourage young endodontists to preserve one thing about the specialty going forward, what would it be?
A: Be sure that the endodontists of the future have the enthusiasm and hard work of the people who preceded you. Keep endo strong; love what you do!
Q: What is your favorite thing about endodontics?
A: There is no one thing, but looking through the microscope every day and taking out posts is just the coolest way to spend a day at the office.
Q: Anything else?
A: You all should strive to be the best you can. The best clinician, teacher, researcher or advocate for our specialty. You might do all these things over a career but never stop working at and helping endo.