2026 Courses and Events

Course #: 5320
Date: 12/01/2026
Time: 12:00pm - 2:00pm
Course Info: Half Day
Speaker(s):
Lionel Vera, DMD

Topic: Current Dental Topics
Tuition: $60.00
Credits: 2
Recommended For:
Dentists, Hygienists, Assistants, Students, Lab Technicians, Spouse, Educator

Description:

When a primary tooth comes out early due to severe decay, dental origin infection, or dental trauma, the clock starts ticking. This lecture provides a practical, step-by-step roadmap for the general practitioner on evaluating, designing, and timing the placement of space maintainers during the critical mixed dentition stage. From identifying when a space actively loses ground to choosing between fixed and removable appliances, this session ensures you can confidently preserve arch integrity and prevent future orthodontic complications.

Learn to:

• evaluate clinical and radiographic indicators, such as root development of the underlying permanent successor and the patient’s dental age, to accurately determine if a space maintainer is necessary following an extraction
• differentiate between various space maintainers and select the most biomechanically sound option for specific clinical scenarios
• implement best practices for accurate impression-taking, band fitting, and laboratory prescription writing to ensure a precise, comfortable appliance fit that minimizes chairside adjustments
• establish an effective long-term recall and maintenance protocol to monitor appliance integrity, track permanent tooth eruption, and identify the exact clinical window for safe appliance removal

Support for this program is provided by the Puerto Rico Dental Association