Blueprint for Clinical Excellence

Event details

Location: La Playa Hotel in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA
Date: November 14-16, 2024
Format: Three-day, hands-on intensive
C.E.: 17 C.E. units
Cost: $2,995 for CDA members; $4,495 for non-members

Meet your instructor

Marcos Vargas, BDB, DDS, MS

Dr. Vargas is a professor in the department of Family Dentistry at the University of Iowa. He’s published extensively on the topics of dental adhesion and resin composites for the past 24 years and is involved nationally and internationally with hands-on seminars on resin composites. He also maintains a private practice limited to operative dentistry with emphasis in aesthetic dentistry.

Three-day schedule

Day 1

6 hours
  • 8:00 - 10:00 a.m. Reg/Breakfast*
  • 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Session #1
  • 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. Lunch*
  • 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. Session #2

Day 2

7 hours
  • 8:00 - 9:00 a.m. Breakfast*
  • 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Session #3
  • 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. Lunch*
  • 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. Session #4

Day 3

4 hours
  • 8:00 - 9:00 a.m. Breakfast*
  • 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Session #5
  • 1:00 p.m. Closing
  •  
*Meals indicated above are included in your registration. Additional evening dinner reception will be hosted for all attendees. More details to follow.

Day 1 builds the foundation for effective treatment planning and formulating a blueprint for treatment. Participants will learn to assess various cases and tailor treatment plans to meet individual patient needs. Digital smile design will be presented as an aid in evaluating patient’s aesthetic goals and formulating a positive treatment plan. A portion of the program will focus on utilizing orthodontic aligners to conserve tooth structure while improving aesthetic and functional outcomes. Participants will be introduced to cutting-edge adhesives, cements, and restorative materials to provide knowledge of their applications and benefits. Attendees will gain practical experience working directly with new materials to hone their skills for real-world application.

Learning Objectives:  

  • Learn how to properly select cases for aligners as well as how to do attachments.
  • Discover advancements in restorative materials in respect to sensitive free adhesives and composites.
  • Obtain ideal proximal contacts in Class II restorations.

Day 2 dives into direct adhesive aesthetic dentistry, addressing the common challenges faced in achieving natural and appealing results. The program focuses on the implementation of direct composite veneers and matrix systems providing tips and tricks to improve traditional techniques. Detailed instruction on placement, contouring and polishing resin composites will demonstrate how to achieve life-like restorations. Participants will have ample time to practice placement of direct resin veneers and Class IV restorations. We will also explore indirect veneers to give a comprehensive view of material, preparation, design, and provisionalization. Participants will engage in hands-on activities and apply demonstrated techniques to simulate cases, all to elevate their capability to transform smiles.   

Learning Objectives:  

  • Study predictable placement of direct and indirect anterior restorations.
  • Learn when to bond and when to cement indirect restorations.
  • Discover how to efficiently select proper shade for anterior composite restorations.
  • Produce cavity preparations to obtain esthetic blending. (Day 3 also)
  • Develop a clear understanding of finishing and polishing restorations.

The final day of the workshop is dedicated to partial coverage indirect posterior restorations. Attendees will explore various aspects of these restorations, including design, preparation, armamentarium, material selection and placement techniques. A rationale of when and how to bond or cement these restorations will be discussed and practiced by participants. Future dental disease prevention and maintenance education is the final critical segment to equip dental professionals with strategies and best practices to ensure the long-term success and health of their restorative work. This important session will equip dental professionals with strategies and best practices to ensure the long-term success and health of their restorative work.

Learning Objectives:

  • Understand the current landscape in anterior restoration matrices.
  • Discuss appropriate treatment planning and preparation of partial coverage indirect restorations.
  • Learn how to increase the longevity of your restorations.

Explore your destination

Newly restored – following an extensive $15 million renovation – this historic 75-room artist’s home-turned-hotel offers a modern luxury experience intertwined with historic charm and romance. Located in one of California’s most prestigious neighborhoods, La Playa Hotel is just steps from the sugared white sands of the Pacific coastline and the renowned shops, galleries, and restaurants of downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea. Guests of this landmark hotel are treated to informal elegance with premium amenities — all amidst a stunning backdrop composed of bohemian gardens, timeless turn-of-the-century architecture, and expansive seascape views.

Travel & Planning FAQ

La Playa Hotel is a landmark destination with plenty of amenities at a special CDA room block rate of only $329 per night + a $45 amenity fee. Once registered, you’ll receive instructions on how to book your stay.

Parking is included in the room rate for hotel guests.

Bring your confirmation email (printed or mobile) for an easy check-in process. And be prepared to take notes in whatever way you choose.
Dress is business casual.

Meals noted in the three-day schedule are included in your registration. An additional evening dinner reception will be hosted for all attendees. More details to follow.

Do you have any dietary restrictions? when you register yourself and your team members or email us.

Thank you to our event sponsors

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Ready to register? Here’s how:

  • Save your spot at the Blueprint for Clinical Excellence: Modern Adhesives, Materials and Techniques in Aesthetic Dentistry hands-on workshop.
  • Follow the prompts to register.
  • Once registered for the workshop, make your hotel and travel plans.
  • If you have questions, please email us.
CERP

CDA is an ADA CERP Recognized Provider. ADA CERP is a service of the American Dental Association to assist dental professionals in identifying quality providers of continuing dental education. ADA CERP does not approve or endorse individual courses or instructors, nor does it imply acceptance of credit hours by boards of dentistry.

CDA designates each activity for a specified number of C.E. units. These courses meet the Dental Board of California requirements for continuing education units.