Course breakdown

• A fundamental understanding of ‘occlusion’ is a prerequisite when designing restorations intended to withstand the rigors of the oral environment.
• Success is dependent upon DIAGNOSING and MANAGING risk factors such that we can deliver restorations predictably for the long-term.
• Unfortunately, occlusion more than any other aspect of dentistry can also lead to paralysis!!! (Bob Barkley).
• This course is designed to demystify occlusal concepts and eliminate occlusal paralysis.
• Structure the occlusal planning phase for most clinical cases presenting to the practicing general dentist.

Learning Objectives - APPLIED OCCLUSION FOR GENERAL DENTISTS:

The course will allow the participant to better understand occlusal concepts and readily apply them to practice Monday morning.

1. Minimum requirements for ‘Ideal occlusion’.
2. The concept of a mutually protected occlusion.
3. Understand the impact of occlusion on esthetic dentistry.
4. The concept of a Class III lever and its relationship to Anterior Guidance.
5. How to safely manipulate the VDO.
6. Understand the different causes of wear.
7. Distinguish between vertical and horizontal wear and how to treat them accordingly.
8. Understand the different patterns of wear in bruxers and their associated risks on your restorations.
9. Protecting the final restorations and managing the patient’s expectations.