Harmony of Esthetics and Occlusion: Smile Analysis, Bleaching, Caries and Occlusion

Presentation #1
Smile Analysis and Esthetic Re-contouring

Synopsis of Presentation
Prior to initiating any esthetic treatment, it is important for the dentist to examine and diagnosis the overall esthetic condition of the patient. Performing a smile analysis includes an evaluation of how the teeth are positioned in the face and their relationship to the lips, as well as a tooth-by-tooth analysis.  Conservative treatments include re-contouring of the teeth, bonding or esthetic periodontal treatments. Informing the patient of all treatment that is needed to maximize their smile potential prior to initiating bleaching will result in a more satisfied patient with more realistic expectations.

Objectives: The participant will learn…
1. Principles of Smile Analysis to address all patient needs
2. Esthetic re-contouring principles for natural teeth and restorations
3. Periodontal and orthodontic considerations for maximum esthetics

Presentation #2
Tooth Bleaching: What we now know about difficult discolorations!

Synopsis of Presentation 
How current is your knowledge of bleaching products, appropriate concentrations, and technique variations?  What is the proper examination for any bleaching procedure? Which technique is safest, cost-effective and efficacious? Explore tray bleaching, in-office bleaching, and OTC bleaching based on published research and clinical experience, especially for children and older adults. Treatment for discolorations such as brown and white spots, single dark teeth, as well as nicotine stains and tetracycline-stained teeth will be discussed.

Objectives: The participant will…
a. Discover bleaching examination components
b. Understand hydrogen and carbamide peroxide differences
c. Identify differences between tray, in-office and OTC products and techniques
d. Discuss treatment options for brown & white discolorations, plus nicotine stains
e. Review treatment of tetracycline-stained teeth and long-term safety
f. Learn indications for different bleaching techniques and research support for each

Presentation: #3
New Caries Diagnosis techniques and Sealant placement

Synopsis of Presentation:
The diagnosis of caries has changed from the “explorer stick” to a visual scale due to the effects of fluoride on the hardness of enamel. Changes can result in under-diagnosis of caries, and resultant spread of caries before early intervention. A review of the ICDAS classifications and the proper placements techniques for sealants and preventive resins will be presented.

Objectives: 
1.Learn current ICDAS classification of caries and rationale for the change
2.Review indications and techniques for sealants, including use of H2O2
3.Explore preventive resins with flowable composites and cleaning burs

Presentation #4
Occlusal Disease, Splint Fabrication and Occlusal Adjustment Technique

Synopsis of Presentation:
Occlusal disease is one of the three main challenges to maintaining a healthy dentition, in addition to caries and periodontal disease. Recognizing the signs of occlusal trauma on the teeth and restorations allows the dentist to minimize the effects and avoid restoration failures. Treatment can consist of an occlusal adjustment of the teeth, or a bruxism splint to protect both the teeth and restorative care.

Objectives:
1.Identify signs of occlusal disease on teeth and restorations, and determine appropriate treatment possibilities from a splint to an occlusal adjustment
2.Determine a predictable simple method for mounting casts to fabricate a maxillary occlusal bruxism splint that is easy to fit and adjust.
3.Learn the sequential technique for an occlusal adjustment to create a mutually- protected dental occlusion following basic guidelines.