ITI Pathway 2011-2012: Foundation in Implant Dentistry

This Module looks at how implants compare and contrast with conventional restorative options. The ITI philosophy is introduced, providing a basis for implant therapy and identification of varying complexities of cases. Medical, social and dental factors are explored, leading to an indepth case analysis. Delegates will complete this module with the skills to identify and assess suitable prospective patients. This module also covers occlusion and medical legal requirements.

Implant therapy is driven by the restorative needs of the patient. We begin with all factors surrounding the replacement of a single tooth with an implant based restoration. Ideal three-dimension placement is explored from a restorative point of view, along with the construction of surgical guides; these are essential prerequisites to surgical planning. This Module also covers impression taking, temporisation, abutment choice and delivery of the final restoration.

Building on the previous Module we now move to multiple implant therapy. We explore and discuss ideal implant spacing and position in both bounded and unbounded saddles. The abutment selection and prosthetic options for implant-retained bridges are discussed in detail. The final part of this Module covers methods of assessment of bone volume and how this is married to ideal implant positioning.

This day focuses on all aspects of implant retained denture therapy. We stress the importance of an optimum standard of the dentures and a proper understanding of how to restore the prosthetic envelope. We discuss the unique factors that present in the edentulous ridge and how these are overcome.

This module will expand on the basic principles of treatment planning, placing emphasis on a structured approach to planning Straightforward cases, highlighting pitfalls and problems that may occur. Delegates will also gain an understanding of how to produce a treatment plan and how to present it to their patients.

These three days are dedicated to the surgical aspects of implant therapy. We cover instruments and equipment for surgical implant procedures, implant site preparation, healing time and hard and soft tissue management. There are several hands-on practical exercises within this Module. Treatment of patients is covered within the Mentoring part of the Course.

Implants in the aesthetic zone pose a substantial risk of complications. This Module explores these and emphasises the essential assessment and planning needed for success.

Implants in the aesthetic zone pose a substantial risk of complications. This Module explores these and emphasises the essential assessment and planning needed for success.

The final day of the Course covers monitoring and maintenance of implants and we also explore prosthetic and biological complications. The final afternoon is dedicated to presentations of cases from the delegates. Here we will draw together the elements of the Course and plan how to move forward to the next level.