Minimally Invasive Dentistry

Synopsis

Veneers

Minimally invasive dentistry can now be performed without the removal of enamel.  This program will discuss the techniques and materials necessary to enhance the smile using porcelain veneers.  Case selection, material selection, and techniques will be addressed. Sometimes it is necessary to remove some tooth structure in order to achieve satisfactory cosmetic results.  These cases will be discussed giving examples of each. This program will allow the clinician to make a decision as to which treatment modality will give the most conservative and aesthetic result for the patient.

Bonding

Minimally invasive dental techniques can be used to restore anterior fractures and other clinical situations using composite resins. Which materials to be used will be discussed; techniques and applications will be reviewed.  Examples of each type of technique will be discussed in detail. The clinician will then be able to recognize the indications for anterior direct resin bonding and incorporate that into his practice as a new technique.

Crown and Bridge

Porcelain fused to metal: a technique developed in the 1960s by Mclean whereby the coping of metal is created upon which porcelain is baked becoming an integral part of the Dentist’s armamentarium for restoring greatly damaged anterior teeth. The disadvantage of the use of the metal coping is that it may render the restoration somewhat opaque and enhanced aesthetics may be required.  Porcelain jacket crowns can be constructed in order to give a greater aesthetic to the smile but there are significant drawbacks which will be discussed.

CAD/CAM: with the advent of computers, computer assisted design/computer assisted manufacture of either “Alumina” or “Zirconia” coatings can be made which can provide additional aesthetics to the final porcelain crown construction.

Restorative dentistry

The dental amalgam is still the most predictable restorative material available for filling carious teeth.  The only reason for this predictability is longevity of the restorative material dating back to the middle 1800’s.  Now the dentist has newer materials - dental composites - which can restore the tooth form and function and also be aesthetically pleasing.  Composite resins can be applied directly or indirectly based upon the size of the damage as determined by the clinician.  Sometimes a laboratory is required to construct the restoration for the clinician. These types of restorations will also be discussed. When the clinician finishes the course, he will have very good comprehension as to case selection, treatment modalities, materials and the results that will ensue.