The BACD Annual Conference is making a spectacular return this year, with an impressive educational programme presented by a host of clinicians at the top of their game. Among the most anticipated of lectures is one that Pascal Magne will be presenting on ‘Updates in anterior bonded restoration’. Famously known as the ‘father of biomimetic dentistry’, Pascal has become a world-class dentist, researcher and educator.
He is a full-time professor at the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry at the University of Southern California, having trained and mentored many distinguished dentists from around the world. His emphasis is on minimally invasive restorative treatment options that mimic the properties of natural teeth through strong adhesion. This enables teeth to be restored without excessive shaving or removal of healthy tooth structure.
Pascal says, “When we think about updates in bonded restorations, we are considering all the ways in which to optimise biomimetic restorative dentistry – which relates to adhesive techniques that you can apply to enamel and dentine. The key element of minimally invasive dentistry is to develop your skills in direct and indirect bonding.
“You bond to enamel and dentine when you apply composite resin directly to the tooth, but you also bond to enamel and dentine when you perform indirect or semi-direct restorations using dental veneers, inlays, onlays and even crowns. Porcelain or lithium disilicate crowns, for example, will benefit from very good quality bonding. Bonding with direct or semi-direct restorations requires a different approach because you cannot usually polymerise the adhesive during the cementation process, or else the restoration will not fit. During my lecture, I will explain how you can avoid having extremely thin adhesives on the tooth.
“With that in mind, we have to consider bonding in a different way through so-called immediate dentine sealing (IDS): this is an extremely technique-sensitive process that some clinicians have attempted. I will be going through each step of this process and provide important updates for delegates. Some BACD members are already applying IDS in practice. I’m still learning about the process myself and I want to share what I have found at the Annual Conference.”
When it comes to following a biomimetic approach, Pascal believes in using the right tools, including magnification equipment. He will discuss the importance of high magnification when performing microdentistry, looking specifically at dental loupes.
“I will share my experiences with delegates and explain my choice of loupes,” he says. “I will also talk about micropreparation tips – including oscillating instruments – as well as the benefits of having the right matrix system when placing composites to ensure good contact points and morphology. Additionally, I will be exploring other materials to consider using during the cementation of restorations, before presenting the thermal modified luting technique, which may be a new concept for some BACD members. This involves heating up the luting agent to improve its flow, thus offering a highly fillable alternative to cement.
“At a time when much of the world is in crisis and many people are struggling – both mentally and financially – it is important that clinicians offer patients a low-cost alternative to traditional full-mouth rehabilitations in cases of high aesthetic demand. You can satisfy these patients’ needs with semi-direct CAD/CAM restorations, for instance, which I will discuss in-depth during my lecture. I want to emphasise that you can create amazing restorations without having to be the Leonardo da Vinci or Michelangelo of dentistry. These restorations will keep patients in a stable condition temporarily, until they are financially able to return to the practice for more involved treatment.”
Besides many tips and tricks, Pascal will provide some quick updates on research and new materials such as fibre-reinforced composites. He adds, “I hope that delegates who might be feeling demotivated due to the COVID-19 pandemic will rediscover their love for dentistry, giving them the courage to do better and adapt their treatment plans according to the needs of patients. I also hope that delegates leave my lecture with some really practical learning that they can put into practice the next day.
“I’ve presented for the BACD on several occasions and I thoroughly enjoy the experience. Any opportunity we have to share our passion for dentistry is incredibly important. I am very excited and am extremely honoured to be lecturing at this year’s Annual Conference. I have a lot of respect for my British colleagues and I’m looking forward to some much-needed interaction.”
Do not miss out on the chance to pick the brains of Pascal and many other leading professionals at the BACD Annual Conference. Book your ticket to this prestigious event online today.
The BACD Annual Conference
November 11 – 13, 2021
The EICC
Edinburgh, Scotland
For further enquiries about the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, visit www.bacd.com