Enhanced understanding of orthodontics for the paediatric and general dentist
Course Overview
Paediatric and general dentists are often curious if they would enjoy offering orthodontic treatment to selected patients in their practices. Â
In order to make accurate and informed decisions, doctors are advised to study with and evaluate honest information offered by qualified specialists. In order to be effective in achieving ideal results for your patients the modern practitioner must be knowledgeable and experienced in all facets of dentistry.Â
In orthodontics it is important to understand details of differential diagnosis, prognosis, treatment planning, treatment options, biomechanics and retention. Many orthodontic cases can be treated by the non-specialist and many should only be treated by the specialist. Of critical importance to the patient is the dental practitioner’s ability to recognise his or her strengths, and limitations.Â
Functioning together with the specialist for the good of the patient we can look forward to achieving fine results for our patient families.Â
During training the majority of paediatric and general dentists have limited exposure to orthodontics. However, in practice on a daily basis paediatric and general dentist encounter patient conditions including anterior and posterior cross- bites, ectopic eruption, crowding, malocclusions, missing teeth and aesthetic situations.  There is a need to know when, why and how these conditions should be treated and if that falls into the particular practitioner’s interest and abilities.Â
This two day introductory course is specifically designed for the paediatric and general dentist looking for an evidence-based-yet-clinical approach to orthodontic treatment.Â
Note: this is an entry level beginner’s course. Emphasis is placed on diagnosis, prognosis, treatment options, treatment timing, trouble-shooting and evaluation of chief complaints.Â
This course is not designed to give the participant the ability to treat any and all cases but rather is tailored to giving the participant insight into the possibilities of incorporating orthodontic services into their practices and what that might entail.  Â
Hands-On
During the hands-on sessions, each participant will have the use of an orthodontic typodont. Malocclusions are set using metal teeth in “wax gums” and fitted with edgewise orthodontic appliances.Â
Orthodontic wires are placed and under close supervision the typodont is placed in hot water.  This remarkable experience allows participants to experience the predictable as well as unpredictable nature of tooth movement. Â
Learning Objectives
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Differentiate between simple and complex orthodontic cases to determine which cases are appropriate to treat and which should be referred.
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Identify the orthodontic records required for diagnosis and treatment planning and demonstrate how to obtain them.
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Recognise and correctly use common orthodontic pliers for basic orthodontic procedures.
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Demonstrate proper techniques for orthodontic band and bracket placement.
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Apply age-appropriate principles to orthodontic treatment timing decisions.
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Identify common space maintenance issues and explain basic management strategies.
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Demonstrate basic orthodontic arch-wire bending and placement techniques using a hands-on typodont exercise.
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Describe and perform basic molar uprighting techniques.
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Apply simple orthodontic techniques for diastema closure.
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Identify common orthodontic problems and apply basic troubleshooting strategies.
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Describe fundamental principles of aligner therapy and identify appropriate cases for aligner treatment.
