ADA CPD Portal update: Simply Ceramics

Two new ‘big ticket’ patient-based clinical series have come to the ADA’s CPD Portal. We take a look at how they came about, and what members can look forward to when learning from these substantial and valuable pieces of content.

The first series under discussion is Simply Ceramics, an eight-part series from Professor Jim Ironside, a Sydney prosthodontist with a special interest in premium aesthetic dentistry. The series consists of almost three hours of patient-based material.

Dr Peter Norton, the clinical media advisor for these series, remembers the road by which the ADA has produced them in conjunction with the two specialist contributors.

“What was not expected at the beginning of the productions was all the challenges of COVID,” he says, “but on the plus side, it gave our busy specialist presenters a moment to focus their valuable attention on the series, rather than on their usual hectic schedules of providing excellent patient care. Both presenters have been exceptionally generous in sharing their expertise, and in reviewing and refining the series to ensure a useful and evidence-based viewer experience for ADA members.

The ADA thanks the featured patients for allowing us to transform their dental experiences into valuable learning opportunities for our members.

The technologies and techniques involved in the use of dental ceramics are in a state of constant evolution, which presents various challenges to dental practitioners in terms of what to use and when. This series provides a practical update for ADA members on the use of ceramics on natural teeth, from treatment planning all the way to long-term review and maintenance.

This series is based on the Simply Ceramics course that Professor Ironside co-presents, and includes a clinical case involving the use of ceramics in the aesthetic zone.

Part 1 of this series covers key theoretical aspects of dental ceramics, to help ADA members maximise success and minimise complications. Part 2 follows Professor Ironside’s management of the clinical case.

PART 1, Video 1

In this video, Professor Ironside offers his insights on the use of ceramic veneers, and helps viewers avoid common pitfalls in treatment planning and delivery. He explores the key design features in veneer preparations, and highlights which features are important for modern ceramics, compared to historical materials.

Learning outcomes

– Understand the key guiding principles for veneer planning and design, for various tooth types

– Appreciate the importance of conserving tooth structure

– Discuss controversies surrounding immediate dentine sealing

PART 1, Video 2

Professor Ironside explains why an anterior tooth might benefit from an all-ceramic crown, rather than a veneer. He explores how specific crown materials and preparation techniques should be used, with an emphasis on the preservation of sound tooth structure and minimising complications.

Learning outcomes

– Assess various crown material and material combinations which might affect the success of an anterior all-ceramic crown

– Understand the principles of preparing an anterior tooth for an all-ceramic crown

PART 1, Video 3

In this video, Professor Ironside discusses his approach to the use of ceramics on posterior teeth. He compares the performance and characteristics of various ceramic materials and alternatives, and explains why certain clinical scenarios lend themselves to a particular material. Professor Ironside highlights the need for good tooth-to-ceramic support in order to optimise treatment success.

Learning outcomes

– Compare various materials that might be used on a posterior tooth, and select a material which suits

the specific clinical situation

– Apply preparation principles that respect the strengths and limitations of different ceramic materials

PART 2, Video 1

In this video, Professor Ironside introduces the clinical case for this series, and outlines his approach to the new patient consult appointment. He discusses treatment alternatives, and why a plan was made to place a resin-bonded all-ceramic cantilever bridge and a ceramic veneer in this case. Professor Ironside highlights the importance of assessing and managing patient expectations.

Learning outcomes

– Describe an approach to patient communication and treatment planning

– Anticipate and minimise treatment complications in treatment of the anterior zone

PART 2, Video 2

Here, we observe Professor Ironside preparing teeth 21 and 22 for their ceramic restorations. We also get some practical tips on effective soft tissue management and impression-taking. Professor Ironside explains his techniques for minimising trauma to teeth and gingiva, thereby minimising the risk of tooth- or gum-related complications.

Learning outcomes

– Prepare anterior teeth for ceramic restorations with minimal damage

to hard and soft tissues

– Consider instruments and materials in terms of the desired treatment outcomes

PART 2, Video 3

In this video, Professor Ironside discusses the construction, characterisation and insert of the temporary restorations. We also see the hands-on involvement of the Dental Ceramist in working towards optimal aesthetics.

Learning outcomes

– Appreciate the challenges involved in obtaining seamless aesthetics, and consider helpful strategies

– Describe an approach to constructing sound, aesthetic provisional restorations on anterior teeth

PART 2, Video 4

It’s time to insert the ceramic restorations. Here, we observe Prof. Ironside’s process for trying-in, checking, adjusting and luting the cantilever bridge and veneer. We learn various expert tips to optimise success, even when presented with challenges.

Learning outcomes

– Describe aspects of the laboratory processes which occur in fabrication of ceramic restorations

– Explain the procedures involved in resin-bonding ceramic restorations, including a rationale for each step

PART 2, Video 5

In this final video of the series, Professor Ironside describes his review process for his patient and her anterior all-ceramic restorations. He discusses the key issues he checks, and suggests what should be monitored at future review appointments.

Learning outcomes

– Assess key issues after a suitable post-operative period

– Plan an ongoing review and maintenance regime

For this series, and more great content, go to the ADA’s CPD Portal

/ADA Public Release. View in full here.