What You Will Learn

This is a comprehensive review course designed to provide you with an expansive, contemporary and in-depth summary of pediatric dentistry. Included are the current recommendations made by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Dental Association for dentistry for children. Example clinical cases will demonstrate techniques and help you answer your most frequently asked questions.

Topics to be discussed include the formulation of glass ionomer cements and development including the most contemporary photopolymerized glass ionomers. Clinical utilization of these materials, including advantages and disadvantages, will be presented. Compomers, their unique formulation, and uses will also be presented.

The effectiveness of caries inhibition and remineralization enhancement of fluoride-releasing glass ionomer cements and resins will be discussed, including the relationship of fluoride release to caries prevention. The use of composite resins in pediatric dentistry will also be reviewed, including hybrid, flowable and condensable composite resins. Appropriate clinical situations, indications, contraindications, and advantages and disadvantages will be discussed. The effectiveness of esthetic enamel microabrasion techniques for caries inhibition and enhanced esthetic considerations with bleaching will be presented. Case presentation to patients and parents is an important aspect of this treatment and it will also be addressed.

Learning Objectives:

• Make better decisions about appropriate dental restorative materials when patient needs and circumstances vary.
  
  
• Learn more about the properties of specific materials and appropriate clinical uses.
  
  
• Evaluate the clinical technique of microabrasion.
  
  
• Discuss the safety and appropriate uses for tooth bleaching in children.