Occlusal Splint Therapy:
Rationale, Indications, and Fabrication Workshop

Occlusal splint therapy is one of the most commonly utilized treatment modalities for temporomandibular disorders, yet is often given only minimal consideration in continuing education. Properly designed and carried out, an occlusal orthosis is one of the most important and predictably effective tools available for the management of masticatory muscle and temporomandibular joint pathologic conditions, as well as in cases of nocturnal bruxism, and before, during and following treatment in association with certain restorative cases today. Because a number of philosophies regarding goals, indications and design exist, occlusal splint therapy is often misunderstood and therefore inadequately used. This workshop will review basic concepts of anatomy, physiology and neuromuscular relationships that must be considered in the development of an individualized management plan of which splint therapy is a component. The instructors will discuss individualization of care, trouble shooting, scheduling, fee structures, and insurance codes (medical and dental) so participants will be able to effectively and profitably integrate splint therapy into clinical practice.

Learning Objectives
  • Fabricate and refine an occlusal splint.
  • Recognize when to use occlusal splint therapy.
  • Differentiate between different types of splints and determine when to use which type.
  • Learn how to diagnose and treat nocturnal bruxism.
  • Acquire the information necessary to effectively and profitably schedule splint therapy.
  • Develop the ability to individualize care and create an appropriate fee structure for service.
  • Understand basic concepts of anatomy, physiology, and neuromuscular relationships that must be considered in the development of an individualized management plan.
Dates & Locations:
Michigan*: January 28-29, 2010 (Th-F)

Florida*: June 21-22, 2010 (M-Tues)

*MI: Traverse City, MI
* FL: The Dawson Academy, St. Petersburg, FL
Class Hours:
Day 1 & 2 – 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Tuition:
$2,500 per dentist
CE Credits:
16
Instructor:
DeWitt Wilkerson, DMD
Prerequisite:

None

Target Audience:
General Dentists, Specialists
(Limited to 20 students)