Concerns with Antibiotic Resistance

$10.00

Course Overview

Antibiotic resistance has been identified by the World Health Organization as one of the biggest threats to global health, food security, and development today. As dentists are among the top prescribers of antibiotics in the outpatient setting, the dental profession plays a critical role in either fueling or fighting this crisis. This course examines the biological mechanisms behind the development of "superbugs" and the alarming decline in the efficacy of our standard pharmacological arsenal.

The curriculum focuses on the principles of Antibiotic Stewardship—a coordinated effort to measure and improve how antibiotics are prescribed by clinicians and used by patients. It critically evaluates current prescribing habits in dentistry, differentiating between necessary therapeutic use and "just in case" prescribing. Participants will review the latest evidence-based guidelines for the management of acute odontogenic infections, emphasizing that definitive dental treatment (drainage, extraction, root canal) is the primary cure, with antibiotics serving only as an adjunct in specific, severe cases.

Furthermore, the course clarifies the often-confusing and evolving guidelines for antibiotic prophylaxis regarding infective endocarditis and prosthetic joint infections. It highlights the systemic risks of unnecessary exposure, such as Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) infections and severe allergic reactions. By equipping dental professionals with the latest protocols and communication strategies to manage patient expectations, this course aims to protect the effectiveness of these life-saving drugs for future generations.

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, participants will be able to:

Define antibiotic resistance and explain the mechanisms (e.g., mutation, horizontal gene transfer) by which bacteria acquire it.
Identify the “ESKAPE” pathogens and their significance in the healthcare setting.
Evaluate the appropriateness of antibiotic prescriptions for common dental conditions like irreversible pulpitis and necrotic teeth with localized swelling.
Apply the core principles of Antibiotic Stewardship to daily dental practice.
Interpret the current AHA and AAOS guidelines for antibiotic prophylaxis for cardiac conditions and prosthetic joints.
Recognize the signs and symptoms of antibiotic-associated complications, including C. diff infection and anaphylaxis.
Formulate a treatment plan for acute odontogenic infections that prioritizes source control over pharmacotherapy.
Utilize effective communication techniques to educate patients on why antibiotics may not be necessary for their specific condition.

Categories: $19, CEU Courses, Online CEU Courses

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$10.00|2.0 CEU|120 min

Course Overview

Infection control is a foundational responsibility in dental practice, directly impacting the safety of patients, clinicians, and auxiliary staff. This course provides a comprehensive review of current infection control principles as they apply to dentistry, including the science of disease transmission, the hierarchy of disinfection and sterilization, and the classification of instruments and clinical surfaces. Participants will gain a clear understanding of key pathogens of concern in the dental setting—such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis, hepatitis viruses, and HIV—and the rationale for core protective measures, including immunization against Hepatitis B and strict adherence to standard precautions.

Building on these fundamentals, the course offers detailed, step-by-step guidance on implementing aseptic technique throughout the dental office and laboratory. Topics include appropriate use of personal protective equipment, hand hygiene protocols, operatory setup and turnover, instrument processing workflows, and the selection and use of chemical disinfectants. Special attention is given to the sterilization and maintenance of handpieces, management of suction systems and dental unit waterlines, safe handling of radiographic equipment and impression materials, and proper segregation, treatment, and disposal of contaminated waste in compliance with regulatory standards.

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Learning Objectives

After completing this course, participants will be able to:

Define and accurately use key infection control terminology, including sterilization, disinfection, standard precautions, critical and semi-critical instruments, and levels of disinfection.
Describe the modes of transmission and clinical significance of major pathogens relevant to dentistry, including Mycobacterium tuberculosis, hepatitis B and C viruses, and HIV.
Explain the rationale for Hepatitis B vaccination in dental personnel and outline appropriate post-exposure management and follow-up.
Select and correctly utilize personal protective equipment (PPE)—including gloves, masks, protective eyewear, and clinical attire—based on the procedure and anticipated exposure risk.
Implement evidence-based protocols for operatory asepsis, including surface barriers, environmental surface disinfection, management of spills, and regulated waste handling in compliance with local regulations.
Design and maintain an effective instrument processing workflow, from presoak and ultrasonic cleaning through packaging, sterilization, and biological monitoring (spore testing) for various sterilization methods.
Apply appropriate aseptic techniques for high-speed and slow-speed handpieces, air/water syringes, ultrasonic scalers, impression materials, radiographic equipment, and evacuation systems.
Describe best practices for infection control in the dental laboratory, including handling of incoming and outgoing cases, pumice and rag wheel management, and communication of disinfection responsibilities between office and lab.
Summarize current recommendations and regulatory expectations for dental unit waterline quality, including CFU/mL targets and options for flushing, chemical treatment, and filtration.
Interpret the ethical and legal obligations related to treating patients with HIV and other infectious diseases and integrate these requirements into practice policies, documentation, and patient communication.

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$10.00|2.0 CEU|120 min

Course Overview

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Participants will explore the rapid expansion of digital dentistry, including the integration of Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) with intraoral scanning for seamless implant planning and the rise of chairside CAD/CAM and 3D printing technologies. The curriculum also delves into the shift towards minimally invasive dentistry, highlighting advanced laser therapies and air abrasion techniques that preserve natural tooth structure. Furthermore, it examines the emergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a diagnostic aid, helping clinicians identify pathologies with greater accuracy and consistency.

Beyond hardware and software, this course investigates the biological advancements in restorative materials. It covers the transition from passive, inert materials to bioactive formulations that actively stimulate remineralization and healing. By understanding these developments, dental professionals can enhance clinical outcomes, improve patient comfort, and ensure their practice remains competitive in an increasingly high-tech healthcare landscape.

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, participants will be able to:

Describe the workflow and clinical benefits of integrating CBCT and intraoral scanning technologies.
Compare and contrast subtractive manufacturing (milling) with additive manufacturing (3D printing) in dental applications.
Identify the indications for various laser wavelengths in both hard and soft tissue procedures.
Explain the mechanism of action of bioactive restorative materials and their role in secondary caries prevention.
Discuss the principles of minimally invasive dentistry, including resin infiltration and air abrasion.
Evaluate the current applications of Artificial Intelligence in caries detection and radiographic analysis.
Analyze the role of regenerative techniques, such as Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF), in wound healing and oral surgery.
Formulate a plan to implement teledentistry and remote monitoring tools into daily practice.

AIDS: HIV-1 Vaccine Update

$10.00|2.0 CEU|120 min

Course Overview

Since the discovery of HIV-1, Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) has transformed the disease from a fatal diagnosis to a manageable chronic condition. However, a safe and effective preventive vaccine remains the elusive "holy grail" needed to end the global epidemic. This course provides a comprehensive update on the current state of HIV-1 vaccine research, examining why traditional vaccine strategies have failed and highlighting the innovative approaches currently in clinical trials.

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Beyond the science of vaccinology, this course reinforces the vital role of the dental team in the holistic care of patients living with HIV. We will review current best practices for oral health management, the oral-systemic link in HIV infection, and the dentist's role in recognizing oral manifestations that may signal treatment failure or undiagnosed infection. This knowledge equips practitioners to provide compassionate, evidence-based care while staying informed on the horizon of prevention.

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, participants will be able to:

Explain the biological challenges that have historically hindered HIV-1 vaccine development, including viral mutation rates and immune evasion.
Define “broadly neutralizing antibodies” (bnAbs) and their significance in modern vaccine design strategies.
Summarize the findings and limitations of recent major vaccine efficacy trials (e.g., Uhambo, Mosaico).
Describe the application of mRNA technology in the development of next-generation HIV immunogens.
Differentiate between sterilization immunity and functional cure in the context of HIV research.
Recognize common oral manifestations of HIV/AIDS and their clinical management in the dental setting.
Discuss the current role of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) as a biomedical prevention strategy alongside vaccine research.
Implement up-to-date infection control and post-exposure protocols specific to dental practice.