Cosmetic dentists meet in Boston

This meeting offers endless opportunities for you to learn, grow and be inspired,” said Dr. Hugh Flax, president of the AACD, in a welcome message to attendees. “The focus is on how the best restorative dentists, specialists and ceramists collaborate to create great results in challenging situations.

On Wednesday, opening day of the meeting, hands-on workshops included “Transitional Bonding: A Realistic Experience Treating a Common but Challenging Case Type,” presented Dr. Corky Willhite, and “The Centrals and Canines: The Pillar and Post of the Smile,” presented by Dr. Dennis Hartleib and Dr. K. William (Buddy) Mopper. Dr. Robert Lowe presented “Using Dental Lasers in Cosmetic Practice: Combined Surgical and Restorative Therapy,” one of many lectures.

On Thursday morning, it was standing room only for “Avoiding and Managing Single and Multiple Tooth Aesthetic Implant Failures,” a lecture presented on by Dr. Stephen Chu and Dr. Dennis Tarnow. Dr. Martin Mendelson presented “Share Science and Common Shade Taking Errors: Pearls for Your Practice to Increase Predictability.” Patti DiGangi, RDH, BS, and Shirley Gutkowski, RDH, led a two-day course for hygienists, titled “Killing the Parrot,” focusing on inter-operable electronic health records, clinical decision support systems, recent research and other key topics.

Dozens of other educational opportunities were also offered.

In the exhibit hall, dozens of companies displayed their wares — and many offered at-show specials, giveaways or chances to enter drawings to win prizes.

Also on the exhibit hall floor was the Operatory of the Future, where a dual-chair operatory was outfitted with the latest in state-of-the-art digital impressioning, 3-D imaging and computer-augmented equipment — all in a real-world office setting.