I’ve mentioned the Kois Center before, usually when talking to patients or in my articles and blogs, and I realized I’ve never actually explained what that is. For peers in the know, it’s a respected and prestigious achievement. But for everyone else? They probably picture me sitting by a small pond feeding fish while meditating on the last crown I did. While I do love my peace and quiet, I think it’s better to clear everything up and give you a peek behind the curtain. Here’s what continuing education looks like for dental professionals.
It’s Not a Weekend Seminar
Continuing education requirements for dentists are often satisfied by a few hours of online courses a year. But while that’s technically enough to keep a license active, I don’t think it inspires confidence to hear that your provider did the bare minimum.
The Kois Center is a different tier entirely: intensive, hands-on, evidence-based training that goes far beyond basic requirements. It’s built around changing how you diagnose and treat, not just checking a box.
What It Actually Covers
Continuing education varies widely, but the Kois Center covers a broad swathe of topics, including bite mechanics, occlusion, and risk assessment models. The latter help predict which patients are likely to have problems down the road before they show up. So, it’s less “here’s a new technique” and more “here’s a better way to think about the entire mouth as a system.”
Why It Matters to You
If your dentist tells you a treatment plan is based on a comprehensive risk assessment rather than just “this tooth looks bad,” that’s the kind of thinking this training reinforces. It changes the questions I ask before I ever pick up an instrument.
The Part Nobody Tells You
Continuing education like this is expensive, and it takes time away from the chair. There’s no requirement forcing me to do this much of it. I just keep going back because the alternative—practicing the same way I did ten years ago—isn’t something I’m willing to accept for my patients.
If you’re ever curious about my training, don’t hesitate to ask. I love sharing my knowledge with patients and helping you better understand my views about your oral health.
About the Author
Dr. Tristan Parry is a dedicated dentist who is passionate about his craft in every way. He earned his DDS from The Ohio State University, graduated from the Kois Center, and has completed over 500 hours of advanced training. Always learning, he’s a Master of the Academy of General Dentistry, a Master in the International College of Oral Implantologists, and a Fellow in the American Academy of Craniofacial Pain. Call (336) 728-6153 to schedule your consultation at Magnolia Shores Dental to see what a difference training makes for your dental experience.