Direct Composites for Appearance-minded Patients
Direct composites are widely used for restorations in both anterior and posterior teeth. In patients of all ages, direct composites represent an excellent material choice owing to their ease of use, bonding potential and esthetics. When correctly used in the proper indications, composites can result in excellent and long-lasting restorations. This presentation will summarize the current uses of direct composites in anterior and posterior teeth in the adolescent patient, and discuss clinical solutions for common problems inherent with the use of composites. Among the topics covered, the presentation will emphasize factors affecting longevity of direct composite restorations. The presentation will be illustrated with clinical cases in which the materials and techniques used are demonstrated.
After attending this presentation, participants will be able to
1. Understand the advantages and disadvantages of current resin composite systems used for anterior and posterior restorations
2. Apply clinical solutions to address common problems associated with the use of anterior and posterior composites in the adolescent and young adult patient
3. Understand factors that affect the longevity of direct composite restorations
Dr. Ritter is Professor and Chair, Department of Operative Dentistry at the University of North Carolina School of Dentistry, in Chapel Hill, NC. He received his dental doctorate degree from the Federal University of Santa Catarina, Brazil (UFSC), in 1987 and a MSD degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC) in 2000. Dr. Ritter also has two Certificates in Operative Dentistry, from UFSC and UNC, and an MBA with concentration on Healthcare Management from Northeastern University (2013). He is actively involved in clinical and laboratory research, particularly in the areas of biomaterials and caries risk assessment and management. He also maintains a part-time intramural practice devoted to restorative and esthetic dentistry. Dr. Ritter has published numerous journal articles, research abstracts, and book chapters. He is a member of several dental organizations, including the American and International Associations for Dental Research, the European Caries Organization, and the International College of Dentists. Dr. Ritter has presented many scientific papers and continuing education courses regionally, nationally, and internationally.
