OVERVIEW
This course is based on current scientific literature and evidence based strategies to give the clinician practical guidelines regarding the use of ultrasonic instrumentation for nonsurgical periodontal therapy. Ultrasonic instrumentation techniques will be covered extensively following the dental hygiene process of care and utilizing hands-on activities. The goal of this course is to enable the clinician to identify modifying factors related to nonsurgical periodontal instrumentation, manage patient discomfort appropriately, and improve ultrasonic instrumentation skills to facilitate
thorough periodontal debridement and enhance treatment outcomes.

OBJECTIVES
Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
• Differentiate the advantages and limitations of the various technologies which drive power
scaling units
• Compare and contrast the three E’s of hand, sonic, and ultrasonic instrumentation techniques:
effectiveness, efficiency, and ergonomics
• Discuss current research findings which demonstrate the clinical advantages/benefits
of ultrasonic instrumentation over manual instrumentation
• Describe the technology of ultrasonics and define key terminology, including acoustic streaming, acoustical turbulence, cavitation, lavage, frequency, power and stroke pattern
• Identify and assess pretreatment considerations for the use of ultrasonic instrumentation to include patient’s medical history, clinical indications, and contraindications
• Incorporate appropriate pain management techniques to improve patient comfort and
efficiency during instrumentation
• Identify various modifying factors which influence and/or change instrumentation protocols such
as root anatomy, furcations and oral conditions.
• List criteria for the appropriate selection of ultrasonic inserts, both standard and modified.
• Demonstrate the correct technique for utilization of the ultrasonic scaler to include insert and power selection, lavage flow, grasp, fulcrum, tip adaptation, and stroke

PRESENTER
RENEE' C. GRAHAM, R.D.H., ME.d., received her dental hygiene degree from Darton College and both a Bachelor of Science in Education and a Master of Education degree from Valdosta State University. Renee’ brings 19 years of clinical experience in general and periodontal practices and 11 years of academic experience to the Division. For the past ten years, she has held the position of Director of Dental Programs at Valdosta Technical College in Valdosta, Georgia.

TIME
Check-in: D.S. Cafeteria, 12:30 PM
Program: Friday, 1:00 PM-4:00 PM

LOCATION
The University of Texas Health Science Center
at San Antonio, Dental School

TUITION
Individual: $149.50
Special Discount Fee: $104.65
(Must register for morning Texas Brief to receive discount)

CREDIT (Course Code: 124694A)
AGD Code: 490 Hours: 3