Exciting Continuing Education Opportunities
Vail Ski & Dental CE
Vail, Colorado
January 25 - January 29, 2027
Surgical-Orthodontic Schedule
Monday, January 25, 2027
Pearls and Pitfalls in Orthognathic Surgery
Description
Learning Objectives:
At the end of this course, participants will have the ability to:
- Understand common challenges in planning and treatment of orthognathic patients.
- Learn methods to help overcome challenges encountered in orthognathic patients.
Clear Aligner Therapy in Orthognathic Surgery
Orthodontics utilizing clear aligner therapy has become a common practice. Many patients requiring combined orthodontics and orthognathic surgery may request treatment without traditional orthodontic hardware. This lecture will discuss orthognathic surgery utilizing clear aligners.
Learning Objectives:
At the end of this course, participants will have the ability to:
- Explain the benefits and techniques of performing orthognathic surgery utilizing clear aligner therapy.
- Recognize the limitations and potential complications associated with the procedure.
Tuesday, January 26, 2027
Implant Reconstruction Options: Innovations in Complex and Subperiosteal Implant Rehabilitation
This interactive lecture explores the expanding spectrum of implant reconstruction for patients with severe maxillary and mandibular atrophy, and those with ablative defects. Emphasis will be placed on contemporary protocols for zygomatic, and patient-specific (IPS) preprosthetic subperiosteal implants. Through detailed case discussions and digital planning workflows, participants will gain practical insights into patient selection, prosthetic-driven design, and surgical execution for challenging anatomical and reconstructive scenarios.
Learning Objectives:
At the end of this course, participants will have the ability to:
- Differentiate between conventional, zygomatic, and subperiosteal (IPS) implant options for severe alveolar deficiency.
- Evaluate indications, advantages, and limitations of each reconstructive modality based on defect classification and restorative goals.
- Understand digital planning principles and intraoperative protocols for IPS preprosthetic implant placement.
- Integrate multidisciplinary approaches for restoring function, esthetics, and long-term stability in complex implant reconstruction.
Dr. Salman completed his dental education at the University of Michigan, followed by pursuing a medical degree and residency training in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at the University of Kentucky in Lexington, KY. After completion of his residency, he transitioned to a full-time faculty position at UF-Jacksonville Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, where he served as an associate professor and residency program director before joining Atlanta Oral and Facial Surgery in 2024.
Dr. Salman's focus encompasses a range of specialized services, including the management of facial trauma, orthognathic surgery, surgical treatment of obstructive sleep apnea, dentoalveolar surgery, and dental implant reconstruction.
Dr. Salman has taken on the role of the sole editor of a recent textbook on the management of obstructive sleep apnea and co-editor of an Atlas on Zygomatic Implants. He has been an invited speaker nationally and internationally in the fields of orthognathic surgery and complex implant reconstruction. His publication record includes over 20 peer-reviewed manuscripts and 13 book chapters, reflecting his dedication to advancing the field. Dr. Salman also serves as a board examiner for the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.
Interactive Treatment Planning Session
Dr. Mike Callan and Dr. Doug Kendrick
An interactive session where cases are presented and discussed to evaluate different treatment options and approaches and evaluate outcomes.
Learning Objectives:
At the end of this course, participants will have the ability 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.
- Understand multiple approaches to treating varying dentofacial deformities.
Course Reception
Course Participants and Families Welcome
Wednesday, January 27, 2027
Substance Use Disorders: Clinical Implications for Dental Practice
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. Dental opioid prescribing has dramatically declined since 2015, and we'll discuss the most effective pain control options available today. Recreational marijuana is currently legal in 24 states and all Canadian provinces and initiatives are underway 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. Detailed handouts will enhance the chairside value of this crucial information.
Learning Objectives:
At the end of this course, participants will have the ability to:
- Discuss the neurophysiology and neurotransmitter basis for SUDs.
- Describe the brain development stages and mental health disorders that predispose to SUDs.
- Outline strategies to maximize dental analgesia while minimizing the use of opioids.
- List the dental pain management and anesthesia implications of chronic cannabis use.
Antibiotic Prescribing: Controversy or Consensus?
Antibiotic stewardship has taken on new importance with the emergence of superbugs and the decline in effective and available oral antibiotics. Karen will update the dental team on recent developments in dental antibiotic prescribing and outline strategies for prescribing to ensure therapeutic success with minimum risk. Difficult questions about antibiotic prophylaxis will be examined and all relevant guidelines and decision tools will be included. Extensive and very current handouts will be provided to maximize the chairside value of this fast-paced and entertaining course.
Learning Objectives:
At the end of this course, participants will have the ability to:
- Select regimens for odontogenic infections based on allergies, intolerances, effectiveness, Black Box Warnings, and guidelines.
- Prescribe antibiotic premedication for certain patients with a variety of implants including cardiac and orthopedic devices.
- Discuss the pros and cons of prophylactic antibiotics for implant placement, tooth extractions, and other surgical procedures.
Professor Karen Baker is Professor Emeritus after retiring from a 45-year career at the University of Iowa College of Dentistry. She created a unique role in dental practice and education as a clinical pharmacist focused on optimizing dental drug therapy and minimizing risks for medically complex patients. Karen's legacy is the only dental education-based pharmacy and drug therapy consultation center in the United States. She has given well over 1500 invited programs nationally and internationally and provides dental clinicians with legendary handouts to enhance chairside care. She has authored many articles and abstracts and continues to provide practical and entertaining lectures around the country.
Thursday, January 28, 2027
Diagnosis and Management of Temporomandibular Joint Disorders in the Orthognathic Patient
Treatment of TMJ disorders is often challenging, particularly in patients who also require surgical or orthodontic management as well. We will review the disease processes of typical TMJ disorders and discuss management techniques for common (and less common) scenarios.
Learning Objectives:
At the end of this course, participants will have the ability to:
- Discuss common TMD symptoms and diagnoses.
- Understand the surgical and non-surgical management of common TMJ disorders.
Contemporary Management of Facial Clefts and Skeletal Disproportion
This lecture reviews modern, multidisciplinary approaches to the management of facial clefts and craniofacial skeletal disproportion, integrating principles of cleft care, orthognathic surgery, and craniofacial reconstruction. Emphasis is placed on treatment timing, surgical sequencing, and the use of contemporary technologies to optimize functional and aesthetic outcomes.
Learning Objectives:
At the end of this course, participants will have the ability to:
- Understand current treatment algorithms and surgical sequencing for patients with facial clefts and associated skeletal discrepancies across the lifespan.
- Evaluate contemporary techniques- including conventional orthognathic surgery, distraction osteogenesis, and adjunctive technologies- to optimize functional, aesthetic, and long-term outcomes.
Friday, January 29, 2027
Untoward Orthodontic Treatment Complications: Predictive Evaluation, Avoidance and Management
There are numerous untoward orthodontic treatment complications. We will be discussing several key complications such as root resorption and periodontal problems. We will discuss certain diagnostic traits that have predictive value as well as diagnostic criteria once conditions arise. We will discuss several interventions in the management of untoward sequela.
Learning Objectives:
At the end of this course, participants will have the ability to:
- Identify morphology and treatment mechanics that represent the greatest likelihood of generating root resorption.
- Become familiar with methods of evaluating alveolar housing in relation to directions of tooth movements for potential periodontal difficulties.
- Determine protocols for management of root resorption once encountered.
- Open discussion of potential avoidance of root resorption and treatment related periodontal defects.
Interactive Treatment Planning Session
Dr. Mike Callan and Dr. Jeffrey Marschall
An interactive session where cases are presented and discussed to evaluate different treatment options and approaches and evaluate outcomes.
Learning Objectives:
At the end of this course, participants will have the ability 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.
- Understand multiple approaches to treating varying dentofacial deformities.
Restorative Dentistry Schedule
Tuesday, January 26, 2027
Implant Reconstruction Options: Innovations in Complex and Subperiosteal Implant Rehabilitation
This interactive lecture explores the expanding spectrum of implant reconstruction for patients with severe maxillary and mandibular atrophy, and those with ablative defects. Emphasis will be placed on contemporary protocols for zygomatic, and patient-specific (IPS) preprosthetic subperiosteal implants. Through detailed case discussions and digital planning workflows, participants will gain practical insights into patient selection, prosthetic-driven design, and surgical execution for challenging anatomical and reconstructive scenarios.
Learning Objectives:
At the end of this course, participants will have the ability to:
- Differentiate between conventional, zygomatic, and subperiosteal (IPS) implant options for severe alveolar deficiency.
- Evaluate indications, advantages, and limitations of each reconstructive modality based on defect classification and restorative goals.
- Understand digital planning principles and intraoperative protocols for IPS preprosthetic implant placement.
- Integrate multidisciplinary approaches for restoring function, esthetics, and long-term stability in complex implant reconstruction.
Dr. Salman completed his dental education at the University of Michigan, followed by pursuing a medical degree and residency training in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at the University of Kentucky in Lexington, KY. After completion of his residency, he transitioned to a full-time faculty position at UF-Jacksonville Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, where he served as an associate professor and residency program director before joining Atlanta Oral and Facial Surgery in 2024.
Dr. Salman's focus encompasses a range of specialized services, including the management of facial trauma, orthognathic surgery, surgical treatment of obstructive sleep apnea, dentoalveolar surgery, and dental implant reconstruction.
Dr. Salman has taken on the role of the sole editor of a recent textbook on the management of obstructive sleep apnea and co-editor of an Atlas on Zygomatic Implants. He has been an invited speaker nationally and internationally in the fields of orthognathic surgery and complex implant reconstruction. His publication record includes over 20 peer-reviewed manuscripts and 13 book chapters, reflecting his dedication to advancing the field. Dr. Salman also serves as a board examiner for the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.
Charcuterie for Clinicians: A Curated Approach to Restorative Dentistry
This innovative 3-part series reimagines continuing education through a "charcuterie-style" learning format. Each session features a curated "board" of concise, high-impact topics (15-20 minutes each). Participants select the topics in real time, allowing the content to be tailored to audience interests and clinical needs. Each presentation is designed to deliver focused, practical insights that can be immediately applied in practice - creating a dynamic, engaging, and customized learning experience.
Session 1: The Ingredients Board: Diagnosis, Materials, and Case Selection
Dr. David Gratton and Dr. Brent Ludens
This session presents a curated menu of foundational topics focused on diagnosis, treatment planning, and material selection. Attendees will choose which topics are explored, allowing emphasis on the most relevant clinical challenges in the room.
Sample Topic "Board" Options:
- Risk assessment in restorative dentistry
- Digital workflow- planning to printing surgical guide in 8 minutes
- Digital workflow- posterior considerations
- Digital workflow- anterior considerations
- Material selection: ceramics vs composites
- Managing esthetic expectations
- Occlusal considerations in treatment planning
- Treatment planning- bone volume, tooth position, restorative considerations
- Treatment planning- the effect of implant angulation on implant esthetics
- Case acceptance and patient communication
- Minimally invasive vs traditional approaches
Learning Objectives:
At the end of this course, participants will have the ability to:
- Identify key diagnostic and risk factors that guide restorative decision-making.
- Compare restorative material options and select appropriate indications based on clinical scenarios.
- Formulate patient-centered treatment plans that balance esthetics, function, and predictability.
Course Reception
Course Participants and Families Welcome
Wednesday, January 27, 2027
Substance Use Disorders: Clinical Implications for Dental Practice
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. Dental opioid prescribing has dramatically declined since 2015, and we'll discuss the most effective pain control options available today. Recreational marijuana is currently legal in 24 states and all Canadian provinces and initiatives are underway 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. Detailed handouts will enhance the chairside value of this crucial information.
Learning Objectives:
At the end of this course, participants will have the ability to:
- Discuss the neurophysiology and neurotransmitter basis for SUDs.
- Describe the brain development stages and mental health disorders that predispose to SUDs.
- Outline strategies to maximize dental analgesia while minimizing the use of opioids.
- List the dental pain management and anesthesia implications of chronic cannabis use.
Antibiotic Prescribing: Controversy or Consensus?
Antibiotic stewardship has taken on new importance with the emergence of superbugs and the decline in effective and available oral antibiotics. Karen will update the dental team on recent developments in dental antibiotic prescribing and outline strategies for prescribing to ensure therapeutic success with minimum risk. Difficult questions about antibiotic prophylaxis will be examined and all relevant guidelines and decision tools will be included. Extensive and very current handouts will be provided to maximize the chairside value of this fast-paced and entertaining course.
Learning Objectives:
At the end of this course, participants will have the ability to:
- Select regimens for odontogenic infections based on allergies, intolerances, effectiveness, Black Box Warnings, and guidelines.
- Prescribe antibiotic premedication for certain patients with a variety of implants including cardiac and orthopedic devices.
- Discuss the pros and cons of prophylactic antibiotics for implant placement, tooth extractions, and other surgical procedures.
Professor Karen Baker is Professor Emeritus after retiring from a 45-year career at the University of Iowa College of Dentistry. She created a unique role in dental practice and education as a clinical pharmacist focused on optimizing dental drug therapy and minimizing risks for medically complex patients. Karen's legacy is the only dental education-based pharmacy and drug therapy consultation center in the United States. She has given well over 1500 invited programs nationally and internationally and provides dental clinicians with legendary handouts to enhance chairside care. She has authored many articles and abstracts and continues to provide practical and entertaining lectures around the country.
Thursday, January 28, 2027
Charcuterie for Clinicians: A Curated Approach to Restorative Dentistry
This innovative 3-part series reimagines continuing education through a "charcuterie-style" learning format. Each session features a curated "board" of concise, high-impact topics (15-20 minutes each). Participants select the topics in real time, allowing the content to be tailored to audience interests and clinical needs. Each presentation is designed to deliver focused, practical insights that can be immediately applied in practice - creating a dynamic, engaging, and customized learning experience.
Session 2: The Assembly Board: Adhesion, Preparation, and Clinical Execution
Dr. David Gratton and Dr. Brent Ludens
This session focuses on the clinical "assembly" process- how restorative cases come together through preparation design, adhesive protocols, and workflow efficiency. Participants will direct the discussion by selecting from targeted procedural topics.
Sample Topic "Board" Options:
- Preparation design principles for indirect restorations
- Adhesive protocols simplified
- Immediate dentin sealing
- Digital vs analog workflows
- Provisionalization strategies
- Managing margins and isolation techniques
Learning Objectives:
At the end of this course, participants will have the ability to:
- Apply preparation and adhesion principles to enhance restoration durability and esthetics.
- Select and implement appropriate bonding protocols across a range of materials and clinical situations.
- Optimize clinical workflows using digital and traditional techniques for improved efficiency.
Charcuterie for Clinicians: A Curated Approach to Restorative Dentistry
This innovative 3-part series reimagines continuing education through a "charcuterie-style" learning format. Each session features a curated "board" of concise, high-impact topics (15-20 minutes each). Participants select the topics in real time, allowing the content to be tailored to audience interests and clinical needs. Each presentation is designed to deliver focused, practical insights that can be immediately applied in practice - creating a dynamic, engaging, and customized learning experience.
Session 3: The Finishing Board: Occlusion, Delivery, and Longevity
Dr. David Gratton and Dr. Brent Ludens
The final session emphasizes long-term success and refinement, including occlusion, finishing techniques, and maintenance strategies. The audience will again select topics, ensuring relevant and practical takeaways.
Sample Topic "Board" Options:
- Occlusal adjustment and equilibration
- Polishing protocols for ceramics and composites
- Managing wear and parafunction
- Cementation techniques
- Maintenance and recall strategies
- Troubleshooting restorative failures
- Complications- routine and self-inflicted
- The implant-abutment connection- what's happening here?
- Oral hygiene- instructions for patients
- Oral hygiene- instructions for doctors and our staff; the probe- does periodontal = peri-implant?
Learning Objectives:
At the end of this course, participants will have the ability to:
- Evaluate and adjust occlusion to improve functional outcomes and reduce failure risk.
- Implement finishing and delivery protocols that enhance restoration longevity and esthetics.
- Develop maintenance strategies and troubleshoot complications in restorative cases.
Friday, January 29, 2027
Case Acceptance in the Digital Age: Integrating Technologies to Improve Outcomes for Implant Dentistry
Innovations in dental implant therapy and digital technologies have allowed for the advancement of comprehensive dentistry in today's dental practice. This course will review the inclusion of digital technologies like intraoral scanners, implant planning software, and 3D printing into clinical practice and how these are improving patient outcomes while increasing case acceptance and predictability for dental implant therapy.
Learning Objectives:
At the end of this course, participants will have the ability to:
- Review digital modalities, including intraoral scanners and 3D printers, available for use in today's dental practice.
- Discuss how dental implant planning can be accomplished efficiently by utilizing enhanced digital workflows.
- Learn how patient case acceptance can be increased through the incorporation of digital technologies.
Case Acceptance in the Digital Age: Integrating Technologies to Improve Outcomes for Implant Dentistry
Innovations in dental implant therapy and digital technologies have allowed for the advancement of comprehensive dentistry in today's dental practice. This course will review the inclusion of digital technologies like intraoral scanners, implant planning software, and 3D printing into clinical practice and how these are improving patient outcomes while increasing case acceptance and predictability for dental implant therapy.
Learning Objectives:
At the end of this course, participants will have the ability to:
- Review digital modalities, including intraoral scanners and 3D printers, available for use in today's dental practice.
- Discuss how dental implant planning can be accomplished efficiently by utilizing enhanced digital workflows.
- Learn how patient case acceptance can be increased through the incorporation of digital technologies.
Emily Batson is a prosthodontist who owns and operates a full-time private practice in Colorado Springs, CO. She completed dental school at Indiana University and an Advanced Education in General Dentistry at Fort Carson, CO. She then served overseas with the 1st Armored Brigade as the Brigade Dental Surgeon in Friedberg, Germany. After her military service she taught at Pueblo Community College and worked in private practice until deciding to complete her certificate in Prosthodontics at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She also earned her Master's in Science after completing research involving CAD/CAM restorations. Her research has been published in the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry, and she is a recipient of the Stanley Tylman Award from the American Academy of Fixed Prosthodontics. She has lectured extensively both locally and nationally for study clubs and continuing education events in the areas of implant dentistry, treatment planning, digital dentistry, and prosthodontics. She is a member of the American College of Prosthodontists, the American Academy of Prosthetic Dentistry, and the Academy of Osseointegration. She participates in several study clubs locally and is director of a local ITI Study Club. In her spare time, she enjoys attending her daughters violin performances, skiing, cycling, and hiking 14ers.