Course Description:

This course is specifically designed for the Dental Assistant team member to either familiarize or enhance his/her knowledge level of advances in materials and/or techniques currently available to provide better care for their patients. Restorative procedures will be reviewed and discussed with an emphasis on more challenging techniques/cases. Matrix options, advances in shading/layering of anterior direct composite procedures and advanced temporization techniques will be presented.

While this course is primarily designed for the experienced Dental Assistant, graduates of programs will also be motivated by being introduced to more advanced procedures. Since patients are now educated on esthetic options available, resources will be reviewed to keep abreast of these advancements. Participants will be encouraged to share techniques for success from their own experiences in practice.

Course Objectives:

Upon completion of the course, the dental assistant will be able to:

• Review advancements of newest adhesive and composite materials and discuss direct anterior composite placement techniques using value-based materials.
• Review criteria for properly placed matrix systems as well as discuss tips for success with difficult preparations/situations.
• Review criteria for clinically acceptable provisionals and introduce improved materials including indirect mock-up techniques.
• Discuss new treatment options for dentin hypersensitivity and indications for their use.
• Describe what factors most affect successful or failed clinical results.