Let’s Start with the Temporomandibular Joint and Finish with a Big Smile
Friday, January 29, 2027
8:00 – 11:00 am
Course Code:
646RL
Cost:
$135
Credits:
3
CE Hours
Let’s make it simple and bring it all together by deconstructing TMJ anatomy and muscle physiology to understand how joint stability manifests in predictable restorative outcomes, and how we use the information to create healthy beautiful smiles. In dentistry, the challenge often lies in knowing how to sequence a complex case from start to finish. "Connecting the Dots in Comprehensive Dentistry" bridges the gap between initial diagnosis and the final delivery of esthetic restorations.
This session moves beyond "tooth-by-tooth" dentistry to explore a systematic approach to treatment planning. By applying the fundamental principles of functional occlusion, clinicians will learn how to design a stable foundation that protects against restorative failure. We will dive deep into the logic of case sequencing determining what to do first, and how to sequence based upon the final goals—to ensure a predictable workflow. Finally, we will integrate foundational principles of splint therapy to ensure that the final result reflects stable occlusion, function, and esthetics.
Speakers
After this course attendees will be able to:
- Identify the key components of functional occlusion
- Review of cases from treatment of the TMD to final smile
- Discuss the principles of joint anatomy, muscles, and occlusion
- Determine how splint therapy can treat TMD and aid in treatment position
- Utilize "facially generated" treatment planning to determine ideal tooth position
- Recognize "red flag" clinical signs, such as wear patterns or muscle pain that require functional intervention before the esthetic phase begins
- Develop a step-by-step protocol for complex cases, moving logically from biological stabilization to functional design and final esthetic execution
- Discuss posterior and anterior determinants of occlusion in a comprehensive case review
- Enhance the use of diagnostic wax-ups and provisional restorations as "blueprints" to communicate expected outcomes clearly to both the patient and the laboratory

The Massachusetts Dental Society is an ADA CERP Recognized Provider
ADA CERP is a service of the American Dental Association to assist dental professionals in identifying quality providers of continuing dental education. ADA CERP does not approve or endorse individual courses or instructors, nor does it imply acceptance of credit hours by boards of dentistry. Concerns or complaints about a CE provider may be directed to the provider or to the Commission for Continuing Education Provider Recognition at
ADA.org/CERP