Since its inception, the specialty of endodontics has been enlivened and advanced by discussion and debate surrounding controversial topics. The current era is no different. In the spirit of this long-standing tradition, much of the first day of AAE18 will be focused on the Controversies & Hot Topics track. The first half of the day will elucidate today’s challenges and tomorrow’s solutions with respect to canal cleaning and disinfection. We will highlight our current trends and protocols as well discussing the future potential of multi-sonic canal irrigation and the benefits of using advanced nanoparticles. The second half of the day will include a Lincoln-Douglas style, case-based debate on surgical versus non-surgical retreatment. The day will end with a call to action for endodontists to rethink the way we define our treatment outcomes.
Surgical endodontics has evolved into microscopic and guided techniques that make the procedure a predictable, biologically-based adjunct to nonsurgical root canal therapy. In a time where technology is helping us in our day-to-day activities, this track will focus on updating clinicians on the possibilities of current technologies, techniques and research to demystify this procedure. The topics include evidence-based outcomes measured using newly developed volumetric criteria, investigation into possible etiologies for root-end surgical failures, application of microsurgical techniques in a workshop environment, introduction of guided apical surgery using precision stents, as well as clinical presentations involving the newest techniques for GTR, Cervical Resorption treatment and repair, Intentional Replantation and Autotransplantation. It promises to be a unique balance of clinical research and practical applications. Modern microsurgical protocols have shown excellent success rates in clinical studies and it’s time for all endodontists to accept and embrace it as a predictable treatment alternative in helping achieve our goal of preserving the natural dentition.
“Please remove the separated instrument from the root canal!” your best referral requests. Whether you are a new associate or a seasoned practitioner, you consider accepting defeat before even trying! This educational track challenges you to overcome the resistance from your mind and routine. Addressed are some of the most challenging clinical situations ranging from managing nerve injuries to understanding the relationship between fluid dynamics and the biofilms that compromise good outcomes. Expand your scope of practice, save a few more teeth, and soon, you will be practicing Endodontics Without Limits!
Endodontics faces diagnostic dilemmas, technique-sensitive challenging clinical cases and patient management issues. While our specialty is well-suited to deal with these situations, often we need to rely on the expertise of other dental and medical specialists. The Interdisciplinary Track is designed to provide advanced knowledge in areas related to endodontics that may be more innovative than during residency. Sessions in this track will be presented by experts in their fields, such as a DEA agent, orofacial pain specialists and a psychologist. These sessions will focus on topics like Opioid Use & Abuse, Cases with Challenging Oral Pathosis and Vital Pulp Therapy. There also will be presentations with the latest research in the fields of regenerative endodontics, implants, antimicrobial drug resistance, multidisciplinary approach for dental trauma, pain perspectives and managing challenging patients.
The Essentials for Endodontic Practice track returns in 2018 with a wide variety of practice management, health and wellness, personal finance, and marketing presentations. This wide-ranging track offers information geared towards all aspects of endodontic practice outside of the mouth. The track also includes two panel discussions focused on the pros and cons of different practice models as well as how the AAE should respond to substandard endodontic care. These sessions are sure to deliver engaging conversations regarding the future trajectory of the specialty. With 14 presentations covering information directed towards attendees ranging from new practitioners to those nearing retirement, there is certainly something to be gleaned by all.
Comprised of selections from the AAE18 Planning Committee’s Call for Presentations, these presentations cover a broad range of interesting topics including access preparation to apical surgery. Often paired with sessions similar in topic, each is just 45 minutes in length.
The AAE is an ADA CERP Recognized Provider, a recognized provider in California (#2030), Florida (#PP0049). Programs of the AAE (#214682) are accepted by AGD for Fellowship/Mastership credit. ADA CERP is a service of the American Dental Association to assist dental professionals in identifying quality providers of continuing dental education. ADA CERP does not approve or endorse individual courses or instructors, nor does it imply acceptance of credit hours by boards of dentistry. The AAE designates this activity for up to 28 continuing education credits. Concerns or complaints about a CE provider may be directed to the provider or to the Commission for Continuing Education Provider Recognition at ada.org/cerp.