Vail Ski & Dental CE
Vail, Colorado
January 27 - January 31, 2025

Schedule and Speakers to be released Spring 2024

Surgical-Orthodontic Course Schedule

7:00 - 9:00 am

Orthognathic Surgery When the Orthodontic Setup is Not Complete
Dr. Alex Figueroa

We have all had this situation.  For different reasons the surgery date is here and we aren't fully prepared orthodontically.  Do we proceed or not?  A discussion of when to pull back and delay surgery vs when to proceed, with case review and evaluation.

Learning Objectives
  • To determine occlusal situations that cannot be managed well after surgery.
  • To discuss how to direct the surgeon when the occlusion is not ideal to get the best final outcome
4:30 - 6:30 pm

Orthognathic Surgery and TMD
Dr. Aaron Figueroa

This lecture will focus on the how to manage orthognathic surgery in patients with temporomandibular joint disease.

Learning Objectives
  • To be able to appropriately identify and diagnose patient with TMD
  • To be able to determine the impact of a TMJ diagnosis on orthognathic surgery
  • To learn the indications and limitations of surgery in the management of TMD patients

7:00 - 9:00 am

Complications in Orthognathic Surgery and Their Management
Dr. Doug Kendrick

Case reviews detailing different complications occurring before, during and after orthognathic surgery and their management.

Learning Objectives:
  • To integrate knowledge from both the orthodontic and surgical specialties to manage complications for successful surgical outcomes. 
  • To understand different scenarios which can occur and discuss preventive techniques to help in management of complications and minimizing their impact.
4:00 - 6:00 pm

Interactive Treatment Planning Session
Dr. Aaron Figueroa and Dr. Alex Figueroa

An interactive session where cases are presented and discussed to evaluate different treatment options and approaches, and to evaluate outcomes. 

Learning Objectives:
  • To be able to integrate knowledge gained from lecture on diagnosis and treatment planning to evaluate case examples
  • Critically evaluate case outcomes and identify shortcomings in diagnosis and/or treatment planning
  • To understand multiple approaches to treating varying dentofacial deformities
6:00 pm

Course Reception 
Course participants and families welcome

7:00 - 9:00 am

The Mandibular Vertical Ramus Osteotomy: Indications and Controversies
Dr. Christopher Kepros

The vertical mandibular ramus osteotomy is a well known but seldom utilized procedure. This lecture will discuss the procedure, its limitations and potential applications in management of dentoskeletal deformities and temporomandibular joint dysfunction.

Learning Objectives:
  • Identify the common indications for the vertical ramus osteotomy procedure
  • Explain the potential benefits of the procedure when utilized in management of dentoskeletal deformity and temporomandibular joint disorders.
  • Recognize the limitations and potential complications associated with the procedure.
4:30 - 6:30 pm

Digital Orthodontics - What's New?
Dr. Alex Figueroa

A discussion of how the digital world is changing the orthodontic practice, including an evaluation of custom brackets 

Learning Objectives:
  • To determine which digital techniques are reliable and useful to benefit the patient in receiving a positive outcome
  • To determine which techniques are still emerging and being refined 

 

7:00 - 9:00 am

Drug Reactions and Interactions Important in Clinical Dentistry
Prof. Karen Baker

Dental patients are becoming more chemically challenged which means that clinicians must consider the dental treatment impact of chronic drug therapy or chemical exposure. This program will provide clinically useful information on identification and management of intra-oral drug and chemical effects and potential drug interactions with dental drugs. Drug-induced effects such as bruxism, increased gag reflex, osteonecrosis of the jaw, candidosis and xerostomia will be examined. Chemical effects such as mucosal irritation, sensitivity and ulcerations will also be described. Extensive handouts will supplement this fast-paced lecture with emphasis on practical clinical management of medicated dental patients.

Learning Objectives

After attending the lecture and reading the handout, the participant should be able to:

  • describe the most common causes of xerostomia, taste disorders, oral pigmentation, osteonecrosis of the jaw, chemical sensitivity and mucositis, and
  • discuss dental management strategies for xerostomia, halitosis and mucositis, and
  • list four chronic medications that limit vasoconstrictor dosage.
4:30 - 6:30 pm

Hot Therapeutic Topics for the Dental Team: From Weed to Weight Loss!
Prof. Karen Baker

Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) are unfortunately both common and destructive in our society. We will discuss new developments in the neurophysiology and treatment of common SUDs. Recreational marijuana is currently legal in 23 states and initiatives are currently being promoted in many more states. We will review the pharmacology of cannabis products and discuss oral effects and dental treatment ramifications for patients who frequently use cannabinoids with special emphasis on risks of high potency THC among adolescents. Dental weight loss peptides will be reviewed to update the team on latest developments. Very current handouts will maximize the chairside value of this timely information.

Learning Objectives

After attending this course and reviewing the handouts, the participant should be able to:

  • Discuss the neurophysiology, neurotransmitter and mental health disorder basis for SUDs,
  • List the dental pain management and anesthesia implications of chronic cannabis use,
  • Identify the signs and symptoms and treatment alternatives for alcoholism and other SUDs,
  • Update office protocols for treating patients with high blood pressure readings, and
  • Understand the effectiveness, risks and benefits of new weight loss drugs.

7:00 - 9:00 am

Orthognathic Surgery of the Aging or Medically Compromised Patient
Dr. Steven Fletcher

Many older individuals are seeking orthodontic treatment, and being referred for orthognathic surgery.  Let's talk about the problems they face due to age and health issues.

Learning Objectives
  • To discuss compromises to treatment due to health issues and aging
  • To consider when to avoid surgical intervention and when to proceed
4:30 - 6:30 pm

Interactive Treatment Planning Session
Dr. Doug Kendrick

An interactive session where cases are presented and discussed to evaluate different treatment options and approaches, and to evaluate outcomes.

Learning Objectives
  • To be able to integrate knowledge gained from lecture on diagnosis and treatment planning to evaluate case examples
  • Critically evaluate case outcomes and identify shortcomings in diagnosis and/or treatment planning
  • To understand multiple approaches to treating varying dentofacial deformities

Restorative Dentistry Schedule

 

7:00 - 9:00 am

Using Digital Data to Critically Evaluate, Plan and Execute Implant Treatment: Workflows for Digital Scans, Digital Radiography, 3D Planning and 3D Printing
Dr. David Gratton, Dr. Brent Ludens

Digital dentistry is fast becoming the mainstay of providing more efficient dental treatment, making chair side treatment more predictable.  Gathering the digital data is essential, and then evaluating this data and using it to accurately plan and provide treatment consistent with the standard of care is essential. 

Learning Objectives:
  • To understands aspects necessary to acquire digital data including an intraoral scan and CBCT
  • To be able to gather and evaluate data from scans 
  • Learn to objectively and critically plan patient treatment and implement lessons into their dental practices.
4:00 - 6:00 pm ​

Using Digital Data to Critically Evaluate, Plan and Execute Implant Treatment: Workflows for Digital Scans, Digital Radiography, 3D Planning and 3D Printing (cont.)
Dr. David Gratton, Dr. Brent Ludens

Digital dentistry is fast becoming the mainstay of providing more efficient dental treatment, making chair side treatment more predictable.  Gathering the digital data is essential, and then evaluating this data and using it to accurately plan and provide treatment consistent with the standard of care is essential. 

Learning Objectives:
  • To understands aspects necessary to acquire digital data including an intraoral scan and CBCT
  • To be able to gather and evaluate data from scans 
  • Learn to objectively and critically plan patient treatment and implement lessons into their dental practices.
6:00 pm

Course Reception
Course participants and families welcome

7:00 - 9:00 am

Implant Complications: Recognizing, Minimizing, and Managing
Dr. David Gratton, Dr. Brent Ludens

A discussion of how to recognize and manage implant complications

Learning Objectives:
  • To determine when a complication is occurring
  • Learn techniques for managing different implant complications
4:30 - 6:30 pm

Introduction to Procedural Endodontic Techniques
Dr. Christopher Cook

We will cover advanced techniques used in endodontic treatment. It emphasizes the importance of proper anesthesia, access, canal preparation, irrigation and obturation techniques, restoration options, and follow-up protocols. The lecture concludes with a summary of key points.

Learning Objectives:
  • Overview of proper endodontic techniques and its importance in endodontic treatment
  • Step by step guide to complete endodontic procedures, start to finish
  • Gain knowledge of new techniques and instruments to provide outstanding care to our patients

7:00 - 9:00 am

Drug Reactions and Interactions Important in Clinical Dentistry
Prof. Karen Baker

Dental patients are becoming more chemically challenged which means that clinicians must consider the dental treatment impact of chronic drug therapy or chemical exposure. This program will provide clinically useful information on identification and management of intra-oral drug and chemical effects and potential drug interactions with dental drugs. Drug-induced effects such as bruxism, increased gag reflex, osteonecrosis of the jaw, candidosis and xerostomia will be examined. Chemical effects such as mucosal irritation, sensitivity and ulcerations will also be described. Extensive handouts will supplement this fast-paced lecture with emphasis on practical clinical management of medicated dental patients.

Learning Objectives:
 

After attending the lecture and reading the handout, the participant should be able to:

  • describe the most common causes of xerostomia, taste disorders, oral pigmentation, osteonecrosis of the jaw, chemical sensitivity and mucositis, and
  • discuss dental management strategies for xerostomia, halitosis and mucositis, and
  • list four chronic medications that limit vasoconstrictor dosage.
4:30 - 6:30 pm

Hot Therapeutic Topics for the Dental Team: From Weed to Weight Loss!
Prof. Karen Baker

Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) are unfortunately both common and destructive in our society. We will discuss new developments in the neurophysiology and treatment of common SUDs. Recreational marijuana is currently legal in 23 states and initiatives are currently being promoted in many more states. We will review the pharmacology of cannabis products and discuss oral effects and dental treatment ramifications for patients who frequently use cannabinoids with special emphasis on risks of high potency THC among adolescents. Dental implications for other SUDs will also be discussed. Finally, new guidelines for blood pressure and weight loss peptides will be reviewed to update the team on latest developments. Very current handouts will maximize the chairside value of this timely information.

Learning Objectives:
 

After attending this course and reviewing the handouts, the participant should be able to:

  • discuss the neurophysiology, neurotransmitter and mental health disorder basis for SUDs,
  • list the dental pain management and anesthesia implications of chronic cannabis use, 
  • identify the signs and symptoms and treatment alternatives for alcoholism and other SUDs,
  • update office protocols for treating patients with high blood pressure readings, and
  • understand the effectiveness, risks and benefits of new weight loss drugs.

7:00 - 9:00 am

Introduction to Procedural Endodontic Techniques
Dr. Christopher Cook

We will cover advanced techniques used in endodontic treatment. It emphasizes the importance of proper anesthesia, access, canal preparation, irrigation and obturation techniques, restoration options, and follow-up protocols. The lecture concludes with a summary of key points.

Learning Objectives:
  • Overview of proper endodontic techniques and its importance in endodontic treatment
  • Step by step guide to complete endodontic procedures, start to finish
  • Gain knowledge of new techniques and instruments to provide outstanding care to our patients
4:30 - 6:30 pm

Hands-on Workshop Utilizng the EndoPilot
Dr. Christopher Cook

A fully interactive, evidence-based workshop that provides a hands-on opportunity with the latest in endodontic techniques and technologies. Attendees will have the ability to work with new motor and instrumentation technology that will increase efficiency and minimize separation of rotary instrumentation. Attendees will also have the opportunity to work with different obturation techniques and materials, including the use of bioceramic sealer.

Learning Objectives:
  • Introduce procedural endodontic techniques from start to finish
  • Showcase technology that has the potential to make endodontics safer and more effective
  • Learn obturation techniques using bioceramic sealer