The Magic of Post-Processing

Presented by Jimmy Fincher, CDT

Jimmy is the owner of Cosmetic Advantage Dental Lab in the Dallas/Ft.Worth Metroplex.   He started his dental career in the United States Air Force in 1990.  He moved to the private sector in 1996 and obtained his CDT in 2000. Jimmy has studied at both the Pankey and LVI institutes.  He has lectured nationally for E4D technologies and Planmeca as well as served as a key opinion leader for Henry Schein. Jimmy specializes in digital dentistry and enjoys teaching dentists how to embrace it in their everyday practice.

 COURSE OVERVIEW: 

Module 1: Introduction to Dental Ceramics 

• Overview of dental ceramics
• Importance of aesthetics and functionality in anterior and posterior restorations
• Comparison of e.max, feldspathic, and zirconia ceramics

 Module 2: Material Properties and Selection 

• In-depth analysis of e.max, feldspathic, and zirconia ceramics
• Material properties, advantages, and limitations
• Guidelines for material selection based on clinical scenarios

 Module 3: Laboratory Safety and Infection Control 

• Best practices for maintaining a clean and safe dental laboratory environment
• Infection control measures specific to dental ceramics

 Module 4: Equipment and Instrumentation 

• Introduction to the equipment used in post-processing (e.g., furnaces, polishing tools)
• Understanding the role of each instrument in the workflow

 Module 5: Color and Shade Matching 

• The science of color in dental ceramics
• Techniques for achieving accurate shade matching
• Factors influencing color perception

 Module 6: Surface Finishing Techniques 

• Principles of surface finishing for e.max, feldspathic, and zirconia
• Polishing and glazing procedures
• Troubleshooting common surface irregularities

 Module 7: Artistic Layering for Anterior Restorations 

• Techniques for layering porcelain to achieve natural aesthetics
• Case studies and practical demonstrations

 Module 8: Functional Design for Posterior Restorations 

• Considerations for occlusion and function in posterior restorations
• Material-specific guidelines for posterior restorations

 Module 9: CAD/CAM Integration 

• Overview of CAD/CAM technology in dental ceramics
• Integration of digital workflows in post-processing

 Module 10: Clinical Application and Case Studies 

• Hands-on exercises for participants to apply the learned techniques
• Analysis of real-life case studies
• Troubleshooting challenges in clinical scenarios

 Objectives: 

Upon completion of the course, participants should be able to:

1. Understand the properties of e.max, feldspathic, and zirconia ceramics.
2. Demonstrate proficiency in the use of post-processing equipment and instrumentation.
3. Achieve accurate shade matching for anterior and posterior restorations.
4. Apply surface finishing techniques for different ceramic materials.
5. Create aesthetically pleasing anterior restorations through artistic layering.
6. Design functionally sound posterior restorations considering occlusion and function.
7. Integrate CAD/CAM technology into the post-processing workflow.
8. Apply learned techniques in clinical scenarios through case studies and hands-on exercises.

 Goals: 

• Provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of advanced dental ceramics.
• Equip participants with the practical skills needed for post-processing e.max, feldspathic, and zirconia restorations.
• Foster an appreciation for the integration of aesthetics and function in dental ceramics.
• Promote a commitment to quality, safety, and infection control in dental laboratories.
• Enable participants to troubleshoot and problem-solve in various clinical situations.