Neuromuscular Continuing Dental Education

"Advanced Teachings" for the Coming Generation
In furthering the knowledge among the dental profession, OCCLUSION CONNECTIONS has established a curriculum to provide the clinically oriented dentist with up to date training, knowledge and appreciation of "the Next Level" in neuromuscular dentistry to enhance the clinician's diagnostic awareness and clinical skills. Perfecting occlusal management skills as well as refine dental laboratory bite transfer and transitioning management protocols is a primary focus. We know how to teach and perfect your J5 Myomonitor TENS and K7 INSTRUMENTATION skills and understanding of Occlusion.

Learn from the Neuromuscular Master
It is these teachings and series of courses that many are realizing makes all the difference in bringing the clinician's awareness to that next level of clinical confidence in their dentistry.

"I continue to be amazed at the power of neuromuscular dentistry! Thank you for opening my eyes to its potential." - M.D. DDS, Jacksonville, FL
“You opened my eyes to things I have seen in my practice, but did not quite understand. I see them now!” - Doug Cast, DDS, Santa Rosa, CA

Occlusion Courses

OCCLUSION COURSES for the Beginner and Advanced Up Coming Programs with Dr. Clayton Chan
General Dentist . Specialists . Laboratory Technicians . Team Members
Dr. Chan has organized 8 new "Occlusion" programs to rekindle the clinician with knowledge that answers the scientific and clinical questions that have gone unanswered for the past years. His new curriculum is designed to mentor and teach both the novice clinician entering the field of Neuromuscular dentistry and for those doctors who have been exposed to NM teachings and are users of the K7 instrumentation and the Myomonitor. His teachings are relevant to all who are involved with restorative, TMD and orthodontic dentistry, recognizing that occlusion is a significant aspect to treating the stomotognathic system successfully.

Seeking BETTER ANSWERS to your Occlusal Dilemmas?
We have the answers....

Keys to The Next Level....Sneak Preview

1. Advanced Principles of Physiologic Occlusion (Hands On) - Level 1
Overcoming the mysteries of occlusion is a key that every dentist must know in order to advance his/her cosmetics, to provide predictable restorations, avoid and minimize broken crowns and provide unnecessar pain to your patients. Dr. Chan blends his strong gnathological training and combines that with the neuromuscular principles that he firmly believes in - setting new standards in dentistry!  Key points that are covered: 1. You will learn how to take an Optimal Physiologic Bite and be introduced to the Myomonitor TENS, 2. You will learn the NM system and how it applies to gnathologic priniciples. 3.  You will learn to recognize the numerous occlusial signs & symptoms to help you with those difficult problem patients. 4. You will know what to look for in a problem bite and also learn how to prescribe and deliver the correct Orthosis which is THE KEY and BASIS to our Level 1 course to begin your journey of being a Physician of the Mouth. Knowing this information is a key to building a successful dental practice. more info

2. Advanced Diagnostic Principles - Level 2
This program provides the clinician with a multi-dimensional perspective beyond the mechanical perspective of how teeth habitually articulate. Recognizing the significance of the many musculoskeletal signs and occlusal symptoms as they relate to maxillo-mandibular pathologic versus physiologic relationships is crucial to take occlusal treatment to the next level. Knowing what records are required to confirm a "physiologic" diagnostic process at this advanced level will bring confidence and value to comprehensive treatment planning. NM technology enhance one's learning experience to better understand the principles of cranio-mandibular homeostasis. This knowledge will revolutionize the dentist’s view of the usual and customary to new levels of comprehensive planning for occlusal stability. Stabilization of the masticatory system is key to occlusal excellence. Every dentist should know the 5 key principles in orthotic design as well as know the different forms of the TENS myopulse that affects mandibular function. more info

3. Advanced Treatment Planning - Level 3
An interactive course designed to enhance the dentists’ clinical skills and abilities to refine the bite with emphasis toward the antero-posterior dimension. Establishing a correct maxillary orientation to a level horizontal plane to support proper cervical alignment is a key to occlusal stability. The participants will build on the knowledge of K7 instrumentation that they have learned in Seminar Level 2 and will be introduced to advance techniques necessary to establish a physiologic bite recording. Dentists will receive hands on instruction in the use of Jaw Tracking instrumentation and refine their skills in the use of the TENS to locate and prove the neuromuscular bite position. more info

4. Introduction to Micro Occlusion/Coronoplasty I (Hands On) - Level 4
The Principles of "DOT" Dentistry is a fundamental concept initiated by Dr. Chan back in 2000. His simple way of conveying the complex to simple is taught in this "Hands On", "How To" course which trains the dentist how to use their knowledge gained in Levels 1 and 2. Advanced bite refinement principles are taught beyond traditional coronoplasty techniques. The lower orthosis is the foundational tool to understand occlusion and functional movements. The dentist will learn what to grind and what not to grind on the dental occlusal table. Why anterior disclusion is important! An appreciation for micro adjusting details and its effect on the proprioceptive feedback mechanism of jaw movements is critical to every dentist who is willing to discipline themselves in occlusal management. Understanding how to accurately manage all the various occlusal incline planes properly and land the proper occlusal marks is critical to begin the next level of occlusal stabilization for the compromised restorative and TMD case. more info

For ADVANCED NEUROMUSCULAR CLINICIANS
Implementing Advanced Neuromuscular Dentistry into the General Dental Practice
Do you feel a missing link somewhere concerning comprehensive TMD/Restorative treatment?

5. NM Bite Refinement/Advanced K7 Practicum: Applied Scan Interpretation - (Hands On) - Level 5
Learning the skills and visual awareness of mandibular positioning and jaw relationships are crucial to all clinicians desiring to interpret the scans for both their TMD and restorative cases. Do you know where to take an "Optimal NM Bite" with confidence for occlusal stability? Establishing a proper bite relationship involving occlusally compromised joint cases requires specialized training, skill and awareness to do the tough cases. The information you will learn from Dr. Chan will open your eyes as to what you were missing in NM bite taking process. A focus is directed toward mastering the use of the J4/J5 Myomonitor/TENS and Scan 4/5 to establish the correct bite at the "Next Level". The K7 Scan 4/5 jaw tracking is used to focus the clinician on what is truly important during bite recording. Learning and interpeting what the expert sees and visualizes is critical to the success in bite recording. Do you struggle with Scan 4/5 when taking a bite? You will learn the meaning of all the scans relavent to optimal bite taking protocols. more info

6. Advanced Bite Management and Transfer - (Hands On) - Level 6
Managing the bite takes on a different meaning when working with Dr. Chan, especially when it comes to full mouth reconstruction. He will teach you how to accurately transition the case each step of the way from debilitated dentition to final restorations. This program is crucial for every dentist and laboratory technician who is doing complex cases. Managing multi-dimensions of any comprehensive reconstruction is fundamental to precise occlusion and minimal follow up adjustment visits. It requires an understanding of specific steps and protocols to get the precise results and predictability every dentist and technician desires. This program will show you how to minimize the cost of numerous occlusal arch wax ups that most techniques offer. Knowing each step of the way to successfully reconstruct the occlusion aesthetically as well as functionally is of key importance to making sure the patient is happy and comfortable. Dr. Chan will teach you his step by step full mouth reconstruction protocols which are simple, yet makes logical sense once they are learned. more info

7. Advanced Micro-Occlusion/Coronoplasty II (Hands On) - Level 7
Level II builds on gnathologic and neuromuscular occlusal design principles of Level I - going beyond the establishing centric DOT contacts. This interactive lecture and didactic session develops an appreciation of micro-
occlusion principles beyond Level 1 coronoplasty concepts. Dr. Chan now teaches you the functional mandibular movements and teeth positioning outside of myocentric which are critical to optimal function, i.e. the importance of cuspid disclusion as it relates to mandibular torque. Form and arrangement of the anterior and posterior teeth are discussed as they relate to optimal muscle function, condylar positioning and mandibular torque. This is the "Next Level" beyond establishing centric DOT contacts optimally to manage the bite. This session is a second step toward perfecting the skills and mastery every dentist needs to achieve healthy, predictable and stable occlusion. more info

8. Advanced TMD Problem Solving for the Complex Cases - Level 8
Have you done everything you were taught to do but you are not getting the resolution you were taught to expect? You are getting low EMGs, but the patient still hurts! The trajectory appears correct yet the zygomatic facial pain remains? Knowing how to resolve your patients’ muscular problems (Phase I) is a significant step toward building a successful practice. Having the confidence and ability to handle the complex TMD occlusal cases is based on information and skills. Mastering the complex cases takes that foundational knowledge and skill of occlusal management to the move the case to the “Next Level” of treatment (Phase II). Dr. Chan teaches his protocols of orthotic management at this advanced level for those dentists willing to understand the power of proprioception and posture. To get these answers and insights how he handles his difficult cases versus the usual and customary techniques you can click for more information. more info

“Mentoring Program” with DR. CLAYTON CHAN
This is an advanced mentoring program to bring each treating clinician to a higher level of clinical practice in diagnosing and treatment planning. It is a hands on personal time spent with doctor Clayton Chan and his staff learning his skills and techniques. How to convert your GP practice to an expert/specialist type practice?

ON SITE WITH DR. CHAN:
The program is as an open forum for discussion and training with Dr. Chan. Giving the clinician the confidence needed to implement Gneuromuscular Dentistry and Computerized Electro-diagnostic Instrumentation into the every day clinical practice.

BRINGING YOUR SKILLS TO A HIGHER LEVEL:
These programs are of special interest for those practitioners who desire to bring the clinical skills and awareness to a level beyond the traditional paradigms to implement the physiologic/ neuromuscular concepts into their every day clinical practice.

• APPLICATION OF K7 INSTRUMENTATION MENTORING ADVANCED HANDS ON MENTORING in Computerized Electro-diagnostic and treatment application using Myotronics K7 Instrumentation with J5 Myomonitor TENS.
• RESTORATIVE, ORTHODONTIC & TMD MENTORING TRAINING THE NEUROMUSCULAR TMD CLINICIAN in the practical clinical techniques, application of full mouth reconstruction precedures and steps, orthodontic case coaching and TMD management.
• more info on mentoring

Learning Gneuromuscular (GNM) Orthodontics

ORTHODONTICS/Orthopedics with Dr. Chan

GNM Orthodontic & Orthopedics Programs are for both the Beginners and Advanced Level Clinicians

Dr. Chan has been approached by many clinicians to continue his teaching in orthodontics. His teachings on osseous orthopedic verticalization transitioning, from orthosis to the natural dentition finishing stage has gain the attention of many to learn these advance techniques. Expanding the awareness and knowledge base of both the general dentist and orthodontic specialist has changed treatment paradigms as to how occlusion plays a significance role in muscle and tempormandibular joint stability and retention.

His team of experts will bring together techniques that are logical and makes clinical sense that can be easily applied by any trained clinician who is dedicated and disciplined to learn these skills and techniques. A foundational awareness of tooth movements and osseous bone development along with anchorage systems are required to appreciate the techniques and methods used to finish the orthodontic/orthopedics esthetic case conservatively and effectively.

The following curriculum is to give the student a brief overview as to what Dr. Chan teaches at Occlusion Connections Masterclass.

Ortho 1 – Fundamentals of Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics Orthodontic

This is the foundational course that orients the dentist to realize the goals of dental orthopedics. Orthodontic tools and records will be sequenced to support the bigger perspective of this style of treatment to begin treatment. The physiologic bite record sets the stage to establish a corrected orthopedic position prior to any implemention of fixed and or removable orthodontic procedures. Cephalometric analysis and measurements are presented to orient the clinician to a foundational understanding. An introduction to bracket placement and wire mechanics will be introduced along with case selection of the when and where to use the brackets and appliances.

• Introduce the clinician to comprehensive objective orthodontic and "orthopedic" diagnostics and treatment planning.
• Refining the principles of growth, development, form and function.
• Learning the orthodontic record process
• Distinguishing between, skeletal, dental and facial using key cephalometric measurements.
• The keys to normal occlusion relating to the orthodontic perspective of occlusion.
• Recognizing and addressing the chief complaint in diagnosing and treatment planning
•  Identifying the case and classification in patient assessment.
• Selecting brackets that work towards solving your patient’s problems for the Phase I and Phase 2 using transverse expansion, transverse withprotraction (skeletal) and jaw repositioning.
• Choosing appliances that work for you.
• Distinguishing between orthodontic versus orthopedic treatment.
• Learn how to apply what you learned with the simple phase I child, moderate child, complex child, simple adult (class I crowding), moderate adult (class II with some expansion) and complex adult (class III with possible surgery).
• Communicating principles, systems and techniques in the dental practice.

Ortho 2 – Initiation of Orthopedic/Orthodontic Treatment
This second level course objective is for graduates of Occlusion Connections Ortho I curriculum with previous orthodontic experience to further their understanding and clinical skills of diagnosis, treatment planning and effective management of the neuromuscular orthodontic/orthopedic case. Distinguishing the simple tooth movement case from the moderate arch development case will be emphasized. Recognizing the complex cases for and informed referral will be encouraged.

This course is designed to mentor and assist the participants by encouraging them along their journey of orthodontic treatment with their patients.

• Apply the principles of cephalometrics assessment as a diagnostic tool.
• How to identify the landmarks, trace and apply the diagnostic principles of cephalometric measurements.
• What is the function of the removable (functional) and fixed (banded and bonded) appliances to address the Class II, Class III and deep bite and open bite cases using AP, vertical and transverse correctors.
• How to correctly place the arch of brackets for effective fixed therapy and mechanics.
• How to recognize the indications and contraindications of arch wires systems.
• How to select the arch forms to treat within the neutral zone.
• How to choose the wires for the indicated task.
• The difference between wire progression and chosing the wire as needed.
• How to level and align using low force for patient comfort.
• Learn to know when is leveling an aligning is complete.
• How to reposition brackets.
• Why is detailing is important in straight wire appliance therapy.
• How to Start a Patient.
• How to properly place brackets on your Class I and Class II crowded patient.
• How to use the Nola.
• How to directly and indirectly place brackets.

Ortho 3 - Orthopedic/Orthodontic Mechanics I

The Optimized K7/Myobite is an underlying theme to further the understanding of diagnosis and treatment planning. The importance of the lower anatomical orthosis as an orthopedic matrix for effective diagnosis and treatment transitioning.  Verticalization transitioning mechanics of the posterior matrix will be presented and discussed.

• Diagnosing moderate cases and discussing treatment plans
• Narrow arch form mechanics
• Palatal expansions-myth and truth
• Deep bite cases
• Anterior open bites
• Verticalization transitioning mechanics of the anterior matrix
• Managing the "Orthopedic Matrix" on the neuromuscular trajectory
• Case evaluation for case sequencing.  

Ortho 4 - Orthopedic/Orthodontic Management II

Advanced principles of maxillary arch development and tooth alignment along with the mechanics of verticalizing sequencing of molars, bicuspids and the anterior segments. Root alignment and upright sequencing to establish proper arch form and development as you are transitioning out the orthotic maxtrix.

• Diagnosing complex cases and discussing treatment plans
• Verticalization mechanics and sequencing – Stage 2
• Managing the Orthotic as a tripod
• Tripodizing Anterior management
• Tripodizing Posterior management
• Case selection Surgical vs. non surgical considerations

Ortho 5 - Case Finishing Mechanics I

Refining the case finishing protocols, methods and techniques to bring the dentition into alignment from the orthopedic position.  Verticalization mechanics and sequencing of the posterior and anterior tooth leveling and aligning of the arches further discussed to perfect the methodology of orthopedic treatment. Review and support the orthopedic process toward implementing the finishing steps to complete arch and tooth alignment.

Diagnosing complex cases and discussing treatment plans

• How to finish the case
• Confirming and proving the orthodontic/orthopedic finish
• How stable is the occlusion
• How stable is the head posture and cervical neck posture
• Diagnostic scans to prove the orthodontic finish
• Interpretation of finishing data records
• Retention or no retention pros and cons
• Finishing and retention
• When to coronoplasty and when not to coronoplasty
• How do you know when you are finished.

Ortho 6 - Case Finishing Mechanics II

This will be the highest level of training offered. General practicioners will be given advanced training in neuromuscular orthodontic/orthopedics. They must have completed Level Ortho1-5. 

• Trouble shooting the finishing process
• Problem solving
• Advanced case reviews
• Re-evaluating the Class III finishing protocols
• Re-evaluating the Class II finishing protocols
• TMD pain and joint dysfunction problems in the Orthodontic practice
• Transition from orthdontics to full mouth reconstruction
• Communicating the GP restorative needs in an orthopedic case to the orthodontist
• How much can you close vertical
• Gummy smiles
• How to finish the orthodontic/orthopedic case Neuromuscularly.
• Objectively documenting your case to Neuromuscular standards of health.

To discover the latest and most up to date information on GNEUROMUSCULAR Dentistry and the latest in Dental Continuing Education CLICK:

 

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