Course Topics

CBCT - Seeing beyond the horizon - Dr David Cable

The general principles of CT imaging are as well established in dentistry now as in medicine. However, there are many considerations to maximise interpretation and ensure most appropriate implementation. We will only briefly review CBCT theory so that we can focus mostly only the clinical application of CBCT specifically in endodontics.

Advances in evidence-based management of traumatic dental injuries - Dr Stephen Blackler

This lecture will outline the latest scientific evidence for treatment modalities for:

• Crown fractures
• Crown-root fractures
• Root fractures
• Luxation injuries
• Avulsion
• Treatment of root resorption.

Starting new cases

Strategies for maximising success - Dr David Barnard

This presentation will explore some of the challenges we face when starting treatment and the use of newer techniques and technologies to resolve issues and avoid common problems. Included will be a review of interesting canal anatomy variants, trends in access cavities and strategies for bypassing obstructions and negotiating calcified canals.

A revolution in root canal preparation - Dr Stephen Blackler

This lecture will review the very latest instruments and canal preparation techniques and evaluate the evidence of their efficacy. The lecture will also assess the possible role of photo-activated disinfection; the use of ozone to disinfect root canals; the effectiveness of photon induced photo-acoustic disinfection and the efficiency of laser induced turbulence on canal disinfection.

The biological and technical aspects of obturation - Dr David Barnard

This presentation will review the biological role of obturation in treatment as well as examining the latest root filling techniques and materials. Clinical tips will be given as to when different techniques may be appropriate to use.

Surgical endodontics - new possibilities and realities - Dr David Cable

Surgical endodontic retreatment used to be considered a last resort or heroic option and was largely swept aside by the tidal wave of implant adoption. However, studies looking at fixtures in service for 5-10 years, now reveal long term crude survival figures dropping below 90%, significant peri-implantitis in 20% of remaining patients and peri-mucositis in 50-80%.

Patients too are increasingly disinclined to choose implants as they have a friend “whose implants all failed” or from their own experience (too long, too involved, too expensive).

Surgical endodontic methods have advanced along with other treatments modalities. Its success and appropriateness still compare favourably with other options and should not be dismissed.