Occlusion and Function for Lab Technicians

Course Description

As dentists have progressed through Dr. Peter Dawson’s Concept of Complete Dentistry series, they have frequently expressed the need for a laboratory technician who understands the principles of occlusion with whom they can work to achieve their desired results. To address this need, this course has been developed as a primer for those Technicians wishing to practice complete dentistry.

This intense 2 1/2 day program has been designed to advance the knowledge and skills of intermediate level Technicians. The interactive program will include lecture, videos, slides, and discussion of the masticatory system, anatomic and functional harmony, the temporomandibular joint, centric relation, anterior guidance, envelope of function, the neutral zone, long centric, vertical dimension, the occlusal plane, occlusal stops, requirements for occlusal stability, instrumentation and more.

This course is a unique opportunity for Technicians to learn about the function of the masticatory system in an environment just for Technicians.

Course Size: 20

What You Will Learn...

Anatomy and function of the masticatory system
Understanding open centric relation bites vs. closed centric occlusion Bites and the indications for each
Understanding the role of the neutral zone on anterior and posterior restorations, and when it is critical to the case outcome and incisal Edge position
Understanding when, how and why to use the facebow mounted casts and how simplified semi-adjustable articulators can make even complex cases easier and more predictable.
Understanding anterior guidance - the importance of stable occlusion and how to restore it in the lab.
When and how to increase vertical dimension.
Evaluating anterior incisal plane and posterior occlusal plane.
How to create stable posterior restorations.