This program is designed for dentists who wish to improve their techniques and increase their success rate with direct posterior composite restorations, and who are curious about alternative treatment methods currently popular in the European market. Current evidence-based research supporting this technique will be presented.
With proper technique, clinical success with direct composite restorations can be as predictable as amalgam. Proper selection and use of high-performance adhesive systems, composite resins, and light curing systems assure longevity. The course will review bulk fill utilization, as well as layering techniques for both enamel and dentin, intended to reduce the C-factor and stress from polymerization shrinkage. The advantage of sculpting restorations before curing will be illustrated. This time saving technique can often result in minimal adjustment, contouring, and polishing!
This program is designed for dentists who wish to improve their techniques and increase their success rate with direct posterior composite restorations, and who are curious about alternative treatment methods currently popular in the European market. Current evidence-based research supporting this technique will be presented.
With proper technique, clinical success with direct composite restorations can be as predictable as amalgam. Proper selection and use of high-performance adhesive systems, composite resins, and light curing systems assure longevity. The course will review bulk fill utilization, as well as layering techniques for both enamel and dentin, intended to reduce the C-factor and stress from polymerization shrinkage. The advantage of sculpting restorations before curing will be illustrated. This time saving technique can often result in minimal adjustment, contouring, and polishing!
This course will also include the direct restoration of structurally compromised teeth by using polyethylene fibers. The 'wall-papering' protocol will be introduced to reduce the stress, increase the bond and maintain the integrity of the tooth-restoration complex overtime.
The hands-on portion of this course will include selection of a composite resin and light curing system, bonding agents and matrices. Also included will be the use of composite placement techniques and fiber lay down, light curing sequences, finishing and polishing, occlusal wear considerations, and build-ups requiring cuspal coverage.
Additionally, biomimetic hard tissue sparing preparations will be reviewed.
Upon completion of the course, participants will have the skills to 'go resin' in most direct posterior applications and the confidence to achieve consistent long-term success!
AIKATERINI PAPATHANASIOU, D.D.S. Assistant Professor and Director, Post Graduate Advanced Education in Esthetic and Operative Dentistry, Department of Prosthodontics, Tufts University School of Dental Medicine
DAVID N. BARDWELL, D.M.D., M.S., Professor, Department of Comprehensive Care, Division of Operative Dentistry, Tufts University School of Dental Medicine
SIMONE DELIPERI, D.D.S. Adjunct Assistant Professor, Department of Prosthodontics and Operative Dentistry, Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. Private practice, Cagliari (Italy)