Composite restorations are becoming increasingly popular among dentists and patients alike worldwide. They provide a minimally invasive and cost-effective solution to improve the aesthetics and function of the teeth in a wide range of clinical situations. However, like all dentistry, these procedures are not without their risks and challenges. To deliver consistent and predictable results, clinicians must be aware of the potential complications and plan to minimise them in each case.
Dr Albert Gajdos is passionate about cosmetic dentistry. Having trained with renowned clinicians himself, Albert now runs his own dental academy that teaches techniques in composite bonding and veneers. On the main challenges that clinicians face in composite restorations, he comments:
“Getting the correct shape of the restoration is the MOST important thing and one of the main challenges. More specifically, it is being able to handle the resin to sculpt the desired anatomy, and to correctly finish and polish it. Another challenge is shade selection. All composite systems present a different selection of shades/opacities and optical properties to their composites, as well as their unique nomenclature – this can make it confusing for inexperienced operators to shade match when there are similar shades available.”
The BACD 20th Annual Conference takes place this November in London, and Albert will be presenting a hands-on workshop, entitled “Simplifi Anterior Composite with Next Generation Resin,” on Thursday 7th November. Albert details its content:
“The session aims to present clinicians with a few simple protocols for tackling clinical scenarios, such as full composite veneers for discoloured teeth or partial bonding in Class IV cases. We will introduce GC’s next generation resin materials such as Gaenial Achord, which presents unparalleled handling for straightforward resin placement and a value-based system for shade selection to simplify the process. We truly hope this simplicity of protocol and material choice will make the direct resin workflow more predictable and easier to implement. We can then achieve a beautifully natural result, even in challenging scenarios.”
Choosing the best material is crucial for predictable and effective treatments. For Albert, there are several key considerations to account for in material selection:
“Good handling is the most important criteria in a material. If you cannot handle the material well you will not achieve the desired anatomy or form. Your restorations will be more prone to defects such as air bubbles, greatly reducing treatment success. An aesthetic composite is useless if you cannot sculpt and shape it.
“I also want good optical and colour properties in a material so that I can closely match natural enamel and dentine and also be able to blend with the natural tooth structures. In addition, materials should be chip and wear resistance and have reliable polishability and polish retention.”
If delegates take one thing away from his workshop session, Albert hopes that it is this:
“Keep your techniques and instruments as simple as possible. The fewer steps there are, the lower the chance for error.”
Albert reflects on his experience with the BACD and why the Annual Conference in November is the place to be:
“I have thoroughly enjoyed the events that the BACD puts on every year, namely the Annual Conferences. It is so great to see all the amazing speakers they bring around, as well as to catch up with familiar faces and friends and interact with other like-minded clinicians. It is a great community to be a part of. The Annual Conference this November is no exception – seeing the line-up I am truly excited! Hopefully I will see you all there!”
Albert’s brilliant workshop is just one example of what the BACD Annual Conference 2024 can offer. An immense amalgam of education, skill development and socialising, it will also celebrate the achievements of our cosmetic dentists throughout the BACD. For a superb evening event, the Gala Dinner promises to be an unmissable opportunity: a Masquerade Ball with dinner, drinks, a free bar, entertainment and dancing. This, and the various other social opportunities will be an ideal environment to relax, have fun and network with likeminded professionals. To join in on the birthday celebrations of the BACD, book your tickets today!
BACD 20th Annual Conference
7-9 November 2024
It’s Our Birthday And We’ll Smile If We Want To!
Book your tickets today at bacd.com