Contemporary Endodontics for Recent Graduates & Seasoned Dentists: This presentation is geared principally toward the recent dental graduate who feels somewhat intimidated by endodontics. Most undergraduate dentals schools have such busy curriculums that minimal time is devoted to clinical endodontics. Consequently, this session will be dedicated to such issues as practical diagnosis, the importance of straight line access, when to refer, how to achieve profound anesthesia, minimization of iatrogenic errors, various instrumentation techniques and obturation options. This presentation will include a 15-minute Q & A session. Upon completion, the participant will: 1.) be able to conceptualize endodontics in a more circumferential manner and have a better comprehension of what well done endodontics can accomplish for their patient. 2.) have a more thorough understanding of diagnosis, instrumentation, and obturation. 3.) be able to diagnose and anesthetize “hot teeth.”
Advanced Endodontics for the General Practitioner: This lecture will address endodontics from both an advanced perspective and from a restorative point of view. Dr. Koch will emphasize the concept of linking endodontics with restorative dentistry and will demonstrate how important it is to be conservative in the coronal third of the root canal, when performing rotary instrumentation. A completely intuitive way of instrumenting a root canal will be discussed, as well as an update on bioceramic technology. Direct and indirect pulp caps will be fully discussed. Finally, a new digital imaging system (EZscope) that provides both magnification and enhanced visibility will be introduced.
Upon completion, the participant will:
1.) be able to comprehend the endo-restorative relationship and describe the latest techniques used to achieve predictable success.
2.) have a thorough understanding of advanced instrumentation techniques.
3.) be able to evaluate the changing paradigm in endodontics and realize that pulp caps do have a place in endodontic treatment.
Workshop Hands-On Endodontic Session: This hands-on session confirms concepts introduced during the previous lectures by Dr. Koch. The hands-on session will begin with a review of “How to Prevent the Separation of Rotary Files.” The Blend Technique will be introduced clinically and a demonstration will be given concerning how to properly use heat treated and non-heat treated files rotary files. Hydraulic condensation will be performed by all attendees and Dr. Koch will work with each individual doctor. Participants are encouraged to practice various techniques and everyone will have the opportunity to work with a new digital imaging system (EZscope).
Upon completion, the participant will: 1.) be able to predictably perform the Blend Technique in both simple and advanced cases. 2.) have a more thorough understanding of what causes the separation of rotary files and how best to prevent them. 3.) be able to successfully use a piezo-electric ultrasonic unit for finding hidden canals.
*Financial Relationship – Honorarium: Real World Endo; Material Support: Brasseler USA.