Simplifying Adhesive Dentistry

Adhesive Dentistry has completely modified the treatment planning and procedural steps of modern dentistry. The use of adhesive systems and polymeric materials, such as resin composites, and the association with ceramics has allowed clinicians to preserve more sound dental structures during restorative procedures, reaching outstanding esthetic results with good mechanical strength and longevity. However, the high technique sensitivity of such procedures can lead to problems such as the presence of marginal gaps, color alteration, marginal staining, reduced mechanical strength, de-bonding, reduced longevity, post-op sensitivity and others. The proper use of technique and indication of the materials is essential for a successful restorative procedure. The aim of this course is to provide evidence-based information to the clinician, explaining how to apply complex concepts to clinical practice, in a simple way.

At the conclusion of this course, participants will be able to:

• Describe the different types of adhesive techniques and most recent dental materials (adhesive systems, resin composites, resin cements, and ceramics).
• Select appropriate restorative system (ceramic/metal/composite, adhesive system, resin cement) for each substrate and clinical situation.
• Identify the problems and limitations of current adhesive techniques and materials.
• Use guidelines to minimize the errors and increase longevity of adhesive restorations.

Dr. Rafael Pacheco is an Associate Professor and Division Director of Clinical Essentials and Simulation at the University of Detroit Mercy. He teaches dental materials and clinical foundations to dental students, graduate and dental hygiene students, as well as guest lectures for multiple courses. Dr. Pacheco holds a DDS, MSc (Dental Materials) and PhD (Dental Materials). He is the author/co-author of multiple peer reviewed journal articles, four book chapters and his research is focused on Dental materials used in Restorative Dentistry (Polymerization, Dental ceramics, Resin Composites and Adhesive Systems). Dr. Pacheco joined the university in 2015.