This seminar was presented by Dr. Stephen Wallace, Professor from Columbia University in New York. The focus of the course was a comparison between 2 surgical procedures for sinus elevation to increase bone thickness for dental implant stability in the upper posterior jaw. Comparisons were made between the newer systems of piezosurgery, an ultrasonic cutting device that utilizes piezoelectric vibrations in the application of cutting bone tissue. By adjusting the ultrasonic frequency of the device, it is possible to cut hard tissue while leaving soft tissue untouched by the process. The other system was the DASK System by Dentium which utilizes hydraulic pressure and diamond cutting surfaces which also readily cuts bone but not soft tissue. Both these procedures enhance the ease of the procedures and reduce the incidence of complications.

With over 40 years of experience, Dr Wallace was able to share his expertise having done thousands of these procedures.

From July 24-27, Dr Werts was privileged to attend a course at gIDE, the Global Institute for Dental Education given by international lecturer, Sascha Jovanovic. The format was lecture and hands on training utilizing cadaver specimens, and included a morning of live surgeries.

Day 1 topics covered soft tissue management around dental implants and rationale and techniques for grafting when necessary. Day 2 and 3 focused on osseous conditions and how to achieve adequate bony support for dental implants through bone grafting. Day 4 focused on the sinuses and techniques of sinus grafting to increase the vertical height of bone for proper implant stability.

Attendence for this private 4 day seminar attracted an international audience including attendees from Spain, Australia, Turkey, Russia and Japan as well as the US and Canada.