The UMSOD Office of Continuing Education offers nearly 400 hours of continuing dental education courses each year. We are dedicated to lifelong learning and strive to provide continuing education programs that will have an immediate impact on your ability to provide excellent patient care and grow your practice.

Check this site often, as more courses are added frequently.

Have a question? Email umsodce@umaryland.edu or call 410-706-2282. We hope to see you at an upcoming course.

• Management Of the Airway and Emergencies of The Sedated Patient in Your Dental Office
  

  Are you and your team prepared if a medical emergency occurred during your patient’s dental procedure?

  This course will be given in the providing dentist’s office with their staff. We will come to you and bring manikins, monitors, and practice medications to simulate sedation emergencies. During this course we will use a combination of your emergency resources and equipment along with the equipment we will bring.

  This is a participatory course that will include a short didactic component, but largely focus on the management of common as well as rare events in the dental office. The participants will all have an opportunity to practice airway skills, oxygen administration, and administration of emergency drugs to the manikins during simulated emergencies.

  This training will count toward a class 1, 2, or 3 sedation and general anesthesia permit renewal, and the requirement for a course in airway and emergencies. We follow an outline of the requirements to obtain a sedation/anesthesia permit in most states.

  Our team is prepared to review either adult or pediatric emergencies. 

  Maximum registration is eight (8) participants per office. 

• Optimum Aesthetics 
  Aesthetic Dentistry is the gateway to enhancing patient’s lives, and with the same token having a fun and fulfilling practice. Creating an atmosphere of relaxation by providing patients the ability to enjoy an aesthetically pleasing result, a way better personalized look, enhancing their chewing ability and simultaneously making sure the results will last long.
  
  A skillful practitioner needs to be familiar with dental anomalies and their treatment, concepts of color and shade matching and selection, periodontal aesthetics, role of lips and lip-line, photography and smile evaluation and treatment planning, concepts of occlusion, dental materials and selection of appropriate restorative modality, bonding to different media, phonetics, etc. that will be reviewed during this course.
• To Extract or Not to Extract in Post-irradiated Oral and Oropharyngeal Cancer Patients in the era of Pentoxifylline and Tocopherol
  Approximately 50,000 individuals are newly diagnosed with oral and pharyngeal cancer every year in the United States. Most patients are diagnosed at a later stage thereby warranting the use of radiotherapy either as neoadjuvant or adjuvant therapy. Even with advance radiation delivery techniques such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy and intensity-modulated proton therapy, oral complications such as xerostomia, caries, trismus, and osteoradionecrosis (ORN) still exist. Post-radiation patients to the oral and oropharynx cavity are prone to developing rampant dental caries that may result in dental extractions.
  ORN is the most morbid oral complication of radiotherapy that may be managed with segmental jaw resection and reconstruction with bone flap/graft. The risk of osteoradionecrosis post-extraction in an irradiated oral/pharynx cavity is for life. Prevention of ORN in these patients is crucial. This lecture will focus on the use of pentoxifylline-tocopherol in preventing ORN in post-radiation patients that require dental extractions.
• Digital Dentures - Are we there yet?
  This lecture will cover the latest digital workflows and technologies for developing complete dentures. We will explore the advantages and limitations of digital dentures compared to conventional dentures. Attendees will learn about the various digital denture fabrication techniques, including intraoral and extraoral scanners, digital design software, and 3D printing and Milling. We will discuss how to obtain accurate impressions, design dentures with custom-fit and high esthetic appeal, and address functional issues of the conventional complete denture. The course objectives are to familiarize attendees with the latest digital solutions available for complete denture fabrication, improve the communication between dentists and dental technicians, and enhance patient satisfaction.
• Factors Affecting the Accuracy of Guided Implant Surgery
  

  Malpositioned implants are hard to restore, may compromise the esthetical outcome, and are a main factor for soft tissue dehiscencies around implants. Guided implant surgery improves the accuracy of implant placement for both experienced providers and beginners. Static computer-assisted implant surgery is the first-line option in guided implant surgery due to the available data and reduced cost of the equipment. However, the accuracy of guided surgery can be impacted by patient factors, the data acquisition and processing, the guide design and production, the sleeve type and height, the used guided surgery system, the surgical approach, and the support of the guide to name just a few. The presentation will give an introduction to guided implant surgery and will review the latest research to allow providers to understand, plan, and execute guided surgery in a way that the highest accuracy can be achieved.

• Pharmacology for Prescribing Dental Hygienists
  This course meets the educational requirements for registered dental hygienists to apply for recognition to prescribe and administer medication.

• Improving the clinical success of alveolar ridge preservation and guided bone regeneration (GBR): The when, where, and how?
  The lecture provided by two certified periodontists and clinician scientists will discuss surgical considerations and techniques, with the proper use of bone graft materials and barrier membranes, to achieve predictable alveolar ridge preservation and develop extraction sites for future implant placement. The Lecture will also focus on surgical techniques used to achieve guided bone regeneration (GBR) to augment the ridge width and height. Also included in the lecture will be an overview of various bone graft biomaterials, membranes, and suture materials and how to use them in combination for alveolar ridge preservation and guided bone regeneration therapy. The speakers will also focus on the various complications that are encountered with these procedures and techniques and how to manage them clinically.

• Regenerative Endodontic Procedures
  Regenerative Endodontic Procedures (REPs) are the most innovative evolving technologies in endodontics. They are widely discussed in the literature, but which is the right clinical protocol? Is it difficult to realize? The webinar will be focused on the discussion of the most recent scientific findings from a clinical point of view. Moreover, the clinical procedures will be presented step by step through videos and clinical case reports. The main goal will be to show a simple, fast, and reliable clinical protocol based on modern literature and research.
• A "Clinicians Report" Dentistry Update, from a University Academic and Clinician
  This is a moment of unprecedented change in the dental market! I know, I am Dr. Mark Durham, holding the distinguished Gordon and Rella Christensen Presidential Endowed Chair and serving as an Associate Professor at the University of Utah. In collaboration with Gordon and Rella Christensen at the legendary Clinicians Report—a 48-year-old non-profit educational organization that rigorously evaluates nearly every new dental product introduced to the market—I hold vital insights into this evolving landscape. In this ACDE webinar, I will explore and update you on the NEW changes emerging to enhance the dynamic context-of-care for your patients.
• Recovery Capital for Substance Use Disorder: Assets, not Abstinence
  The purpose of this workshop is to describe recovery capital as a predictor of long-term addiction recovery. In part one, we begin by characterizing substance use disorder (SUD) as a chronic condition. In part two, we lean into the complexity of the heterogeneity of SUD and recovery as a process of change. Finally, in part three, we focus on building community recovery capital to promote recovery in our communities.
• Combined Inhalation-Enteral Conscious Sedation for the Adult Dental Patient
  This intensive, 24-hour course offers training in the safe and effective use of combined inhalation-enteral conscious sedation in adult dental patients.  Of the 24 hours, 8 hours will be delivered in an online, self-paced format, consisting of eight 1-hour modules that will be completed by the participant before the first day of in-person instruction.  
• Bone Grafting and Immediate Implant Placement for General Dentists
  Bone Grafting for the General Dentists  (AM Session)
  Patients can lose up to 50% of the buccal lingual width after an extraction.  This remodeling can pose a problem whether a patient is to get a bridge, partial denture, or implant.  The goal of this hands-on class is to introduce the practitioner to different options to prevent and treat bone loss.  We will review hard and soft tissue grafting, various materials available, and various techniques and equipment necessary. 

  Immediate Implant Placement (PM Session)
  As the implant technology progresses and improves so has the demand of the patients for faster treatment time and higher esthetics.  Immediate implant placement can save up to 4 months of healing compared to grafting and then placing the implant.  In addition, especially in anterior cases papilla and soft tissue esthetics can be maintained much better.  Patient comfort is also a factor and as dentists, we know patients do not enjoy wearing removable for the healing phase.  By following the latest protocols for immediate placement and immediate temporization we can deliver better esthetic, and faster healing time.

• Practical Oral Pathology: 7 Tips for the Practicing Dentist
  This course will focus on providing the practicing dentist with the knowledge and skills needed to diagnose and manage common oral diseases. Participants will learn what to look for in identifying common oral lesions, how to develop differential diagnosis for unusual oral lesions, how to communicate with the patient about oral pathology, and how to work with their oral pathology specialist.
• Building virtual patients for predictable outcomes of complex full mouth implant rehabilitation
  

  Full-arch implant-supported fixed prosthesis is one of the most advocated treatment options for patients with failing dentition. This treatment requires coordinating a thorough prosthetic and surgical plan. Esthetic, occlusal, and biological considerations must be integrated into the treatment plan. It is one of the most challenging dental procedures. Luckily, with the newest technology of face scans, virtual patients, virtual articulators, and computer-assisted implant surgery with the stackable guide, a full arch immediate implant placement, and loading case can be planned and executed seamlessly with predictable outcomes. This lecture will cover the key issues related to this full digital workflow.

• Infection Control In The Era of COVID-19: What Dental Practitioners Need to Know May 2024
  The cluster of severe pneumonia cases caused by a novel coronavirus first reported in Wuhan, China in December of 2019 has now circled the globe. To date millions cases have been reported and the number of cases in the USA as well as worldwide are increasing at an alarming rate. The cause of these infections was shortly identified as a novel of coronavirus similar to the SARS coronavirus that emerged in 2003. Although similar to SARS this new virus has been identified as a novel, never reported virus now called SARS-CoV-2. This virus causes a severe acute respiratory syndrome in some patients and this disease has been named COVID-19 (coronavirus disease-2019). Unfortunately, this virus is capable of very efficient person-to-person transmission and was declared a pandemic by March of 2020. The alarming spread of this infection in the USA has had a dramatic adverse impact on dental practice. This program will provide dental providers with the latest information on the epidemiology, testing, treatment and management of COVID-19. The latest COVID-19 vaccines and vaccination strategies will be discusses. Additionally, this program will provide dental providers with the latest information on the management of COVID-19 in the dental office. Paramount to controlling this pandemic are the principles of respiratory hygiene and cough etiquette and enhancements in respiratory protection that may need to be implemented. Emphasis will be placed on compliance issues and how a practical, cost effective “safe workplace” can be achieved in 2020. This course fulfills CDE requirements for infection control and requirements for annual OSHA training.
• Proper Pharmacologic Prescribing and Disposal for Dental Practitioners (Spring 2024)
  Every dentist seeking renewal must complete a two-hour board-approved course on proper prescribing and disposal of prescription drugs. Dentists who do not prescribe prescription drugs are not exempt. For dentists holding drug dispensing permits, the course may not be taken to fulfill the continuing education requirements contained in SB 603, Chapter 267, Laws of Maryland 2012. ​This course fulfills the MSBDE (COMAR 10.44.22) requirement for re-licensure, which must be completed every other renewal cycle for re-licensure.
  
• Abuse Regulations for the Dental Team: The Impact of COVID-19 Spring 2024
  The program reviews the Maryland regulations regarding abuse and neglect. The dramatic increase in the use of alcohol and drugs, resulting in escalating cases of abuse during the COVID-19 pandemic. The signs, symptoms and oral manifestations of domestic abuse; as well as the timeframe, hotlines and required reporting forms are presented. Screening questions are provided to enable practitioners to evaluate clients suspected or identified as suffering from abuse. This situation reinforces our legal and ethical responsibilities to our patients, to remain vigilant, and report suspected or identified cases of abuse and neglect.  This course fulfills CDE requirements for Preventing  Abuse and Neglect as it relates to Maryland law,  which must be completed every other renewal cycle for re-licensure.
  
• Infection Control In The Era of COVID-19 | Proper Pharmacologic Prescribing and Disposal | Abuse: The Regulations, and the Impact of COVID-19These courses satisfy the continuing dental education credits required for Maryland dental re-licensure in infection control, abuse and neglect, and prescription drug monitoring and disposal.
• Comprehensive Blood Glucose Management for Healthcare Providers
  This dynamic 6-hour continuing education course is designed to enhance healthcare providers' proficiency in managing blood glucose levels. By delving into the understanding of diseases impacting blood glucose, recognizing at-risk populations, and mastering proper glucose monitoring techniques, participants will be empowered to confidently identify and refer patients for interprofessional care.
• Biofilm Management; Are we at a Tipping Point with Guided Biofilm Therapy?
  

  The underworld of subgingival biofilm can be a challenging environment for clinicians. Traditionally, the battle against biofilm communities thriving subgingivally has been fought with a blend of hand and power-driven instruments. In the last 5 years in North America and for over 20 years in Europe, indications for using air-pressured mechanical biofilm disruption technology with the use of low abrasive-based powders for both supragingival and subgingival biofilm have been developed. This evidence-informed review will explore the air-flow mechanism and its clinical application for biofilm management.

• “Occlusion” to Know for Your Practice
  Occlusion plays a crucial role in achieving the long-term success of dental treatments. One of the major clinical challenges is to understand and apply occlusal concepts depending on the planned prosthesis and various functional and esthetic elements. This lecture will present fundamental occlusal concepts in removable, fixed, and implant restorations. The lecture will also address the diagnostic analysis, the decision-making process, treatment planning, and prosthodontic treatment of fixed prosthodontic rehabilitation. Finally, useful clinical tips will be shared to overcome common clinical challenges related to occlusion.
• Removable Partial Denture Design: A Comprehensive Guide
  The course includes the design principles of removable partial dentures, specifications for different components, how material selections play a role in the design, and the digital applications in removable partial prosthetics.
• The Why Behind the Smile: Motivations for Orthodontic Care
  This course provides a systematic examination of malocclusion, elucidating its physiological and psychosocial consequences. The core content delves into the primary motivations driving patients towards orthodontic interventions, highlighted through case studies. Key areas covered include functional determinants, aesthetic factors, and spatial challenges.
• Writing Tips: Strategies for Crafting Scientific Papers
  Empower yourself with the essential skills and knowledge needed to excel in scientific manuscript writing through this intensive continuing dental education course. This comprehensive program delves into a range of critical tools and techniques, equipping participants with the expertise to confidently plan, produce, and publish their research.

  This course provides comprehensive training in a range of essential tools and techniques to streamline your manuscript writing process. From efficient literature searches to expertly crafted cover letters, this course covers it all.

  Join us in this transformative journey towards becoming a proficient scientific writer!

• Tips and Tricks for Successful Local Anesthesia
  

  Review, clarify, and enhance techniques for the Posterior Superior Alveolar (PSA), Middle Superior Alveolar (MSA), Anterior Superior Alveolar (ASA), Greater Palatine (GP), Nasopalatine (NP), Anterior Middle Superior Alveolar (AMSA), Inferior Alveolar (IA) nerve blocks. 

• Dr. Harry W.F. Dressel, Jr. Memorial Lecture
  This is an Alumni Reunion Event. 

• Gerald M. Bowers Study Club Symposium
  Titanium particle-mediated Peri-implantitis: Evidence-Driven Treatment Recommendations (AM Session)
  Peri-implantitis has been receiving attention following recent studies that showed that it is highly prevalent and difficult to manage. This lecture will provide the latest evidence-based information on peri-implant diseases with emphasis on the role that titanium particle release has in destructive bone inflammation around implants. Strategies for prevention and mitigation will be presented through clinical cases.

  Clinical Insights About the Evolution and Long-term Stability of Root Coverage Procedures (PM Session)
  Root coverage (RC) and periodontal soft tissue augmentation procedures have long been used for the treatment of gingival recession (GR) and mucogingival deformities around natural teeth. During daily practice, clinicians are required to deal with diverse clinical scenarios and to provide the most adequate treatment options for each particular condition based on the best evidence available, the clinician’s skills, and the patient's desires. This course will explore the evolution of evidence-based principles for managing GR.

• Attachment Systems for Implant-Supported Overdentures
  Implant-supported overdentures provide clinicians with a cost-effective means of restoring the edentulous arch. Various attachment systems have been implemented in the fabrication of these prostheses. The key to a predictable restorative outcome is planning ahead for the desired abutment and attachment before dental implants are placed.
• Anatomical Variations on CBCT: Can They Impact Clinical Practice?
  Cone beam computed tomography is a powerful tool in dentistry and is widely used for diagnosis and treatment planning in various clinical conditions. Over two decades of CBCT use have made us aware of how often patients present anatomical variations not seen on 2D radiographs. Moreover, these anatomical variations may significantly impact treatment planning. This course covers common anatomical variations seen on CBCT and how these findings impact clinical practice.
• How Long Should My Restorations Last?
  This course delves into the critical topic of the longevity of direct composite resin restorations. Through an evidence-based approach, participants will gain insights into the factors influencing the survival rates of these restorations, with a specific focus on adhesive systems and resin composite materials.

  The course will explore the latest data and research findings concerning the longevity of direct restorations, providing participants with a comprehensive understanding of the key determinants of success. Factors contributing to the failure of these restorations will be analyzed, allowing participants to identify common pitfalls and challenges encountered in clinical practice.

• Demistfying Trigeminal Neuropathy: A Nerve-Racking Diagnosis
  Trigeminal neuropathic pain disorders can be some of the most challenging for both patients and providers. This course aims to provide participants with clues into differentiating between the various trigeminal neuropathies, including various episodic and continuous neuropathic pains. Here, participants will explore the condition’s pathophysiology for a deeper understanding of the origin of this complex orofacial pain. It will emphasize the importance of timely symptom recognition, diagnosis, and working on a multidisciplinary team for the best outcomes. 
• 2024 Dental Ethics Update
  A review of ethical principles and current ethical and professional challenges to dentistry.

• Local Anesthesia for Dental Hygienists (July 2024)
  This course fulfills MSBDE educational requirements for registered dental hygienists.  Through a combination of lectures and hands-on lab work, participants will gain skills in the implementation of local anesthesia.  Attendees will participate in two days of didactic learning, including hands-on demonstrations, followed by a written examination. On the third day, participants will administer local anesthesia to a lab partner including proficiency testing. Coursework includes readings and a homework assignment. Course participants must pass the written and proficiency clinical examination with a 75 or greater. This course prepares the participant to successfully pass the CDCA written local anesthesia examination for certification by the Maryland State Board of Dental Examiners.

• Nitrous Oxide Administration and Monitoring for the Dental Hygienist (July 2024) This course fulfills MSBDE educational requirements for registered dental hygienists. The first portion of this course will consist of four hours of lecture, followed by a written examination. Attendees will also participate in a two-hour practical demonstration and proficiency testing where they will administer and monitor nitrous oxide. Coursework includes readings and a homework assignment. Course participants must pass the written and proficiency examination with a 75 or greater. This course prepares the participant to successfully pass the CDCA written nitrous oxide examination for certification by the Maryland State Board of Dental Examiners.

• Introduction to Dental Cone Beam CT
  This continuing dental education course offers a comprehensive introduction to dental Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT). Geared toward today's dental practitioner, participants will gain a solid understanding of CBCT fundamentals, including physics, radiation biology, safety protocols, and dosimetry.

• Advanced Uses of Dental Cone Beam CT
  Elevate your expertise in Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) with this comprehensive continuing education course designed for dental professionals seeking to deepen their understanding and proficiency in advanced CBCT techniques.  This course will provide an advanced 3D radiographic anatomy module as well as a more advanced discussion of radiation biology and radiation safety.