Friday, November 20, 2015

Presented by Dr. Barry Glassman

Dentists are well prepared to diagnose and treat odontogenic pain. It isn’t unusual, however, to be faced with a pain pattern that seems to defy the rules of the sitespecific pain patterns we are fully prepared to manage. As a result of our lack of understanding of centrally mediated pain patterns unnecessary and irreversible dental procedures are often attempted. While these procedures may lead to some positive changes, the truth is that there may have been more productive and effective ways to treat. Often the pain pattern is not altered, leading to frustration on the part of the patient and the well intended dentist.

At the conclusion of this full day program, the attending dentist

• Will have a greater ability to treat recognize and treat referred otalagia
• Will be able to differentiate between acute and chronic pain patterns.
• Will not only understand the nature of centrally mediated pain patterns but be able to recommend appropriate treatment.
• Will have an increased appreciation of ligament insertion injuries and their role in chronic pain
• Will have a more comprehensive and practical approach when dealing with bruxism
• Will identify the structures within the craniomandibular system and be able to control the forces that tend to injure them.
• Will identify the forces that tend to compromise the dentistry done for patients and learn how to control them.
• Will have a practical understanding of Temporomandibular joint function and if and when treatment is indicated
• Will be able to identify the role of occlusion in chronic pain, joint dysfunction, and acute pain patterns.
• Will be able to diagnose more completely and make a more informed risk/benefit decision in terms of treatment for patients who present with more complicated pain patterns.