Contemporary Trends in Tooth-Colored Direct Restorations
This program will provide information on contemporary trends in tooth-colored direct restorations, with a focus on posterior composite resins and glass ionomers.
Composites, love them or hate them, are widely used for restorations in posterior teeth. When correctly used in the proper indications, posterior composites can result in excellent and long-lasting restorations. The presentation will summarize the current uses of posterior composites, and will discuss clinical solutions for common problems inherent with the use of composites in posterior restorations.
Glass ionomers and resin-modified glass ionomers have been around for many years and have fallen in and out of favor for various reasons. When used in the correct environment, they can be a great asset in the restorative dentists’ armamentarium. The presentation will review the current generation of glass ionomers and RMGI's available.
After attending this presentation, participants will be able to:
• identify the best cases for using posterior composites;
• understand the advantages and disadvantages of current resin composite systems used for posterior restorations;
• apply clinical solutions to address common problems associated with the use of posterior composites (post-op sensitivity, proximal contacts, marginal integrity, occlusal anatomy, etc.);
• identify the differences between conventional and resin-modified glass ionomers;
• understand glass ionomer material selection and color advantages and disadvantages; and
• identify clinical situations and outcomes related to the use of glass ionomers to replace dentin, or serve as bases and liners and as final restorations.
Dr. Ed Swift is Professor and Chair of the Department of Operative Dentistry. He received his DMD degree from the Medical University of South Carolina and a master’s degree in Operative Dentistry from the University of Iowa. He practiced general dentistry for several years in South Carolina and is a member of the UNC Dental Faculty Practice. He previously taught at the University of Mississippi and the University of Iowa. Dr. Swift is a member of various professional organizations, including the American Dental Association, the Academy of Operative Dentistry, and the International Association for Dental Research. He is a fellow of the American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry and the Academy of Dental Materials. Dr. Swift serves on the editorial boards of Operative Dentistry and American Journal of Dentistry, and is the sole associate editor for the Journal of Esthetic and Restorative Dentistry. He has published over 200 journal articles and has written 12 textbook chapters. He has presented many continuing education courses and scientific papers regionally, nationally, and internationally.
Dr. André Ritter is an Associate Professor and Graduate Program Director in the 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 MS 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. 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.
Dr. Rob Ritter received his dental degree from the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, South Carolina in 1994. He has a full time restorative practice in Jupiter, FL. Dr. Ritter lectures nationally and internationally on adhesives, ceramics, and new technologies in the dental environment. Dr. Ritter has published numerous articles, research papers and is on the editorial board of Reality. He is a member of several different dental organizations including the International Association for Dental Research, American Equilibration Society, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, and is a Past President of the Florida Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.
