Expert Education Italy: Dentures Into School

Comprehensive Workflow Education: From Impression to Final Denture

Antonello Croce’s educational approach in dental schools across Italy was not just about teaching individual techniques; it was about imparting a comprehensive understanding of the entire workflow in denture fabrication. From the initial dental impression to the creation of the final denture, Antonello ensured that students grasped each critical step in this intricate process.

The journey began with the first dental impression. Antonello emphasized the importance of this step, teaching students how the dentist accurately capture those. He delved into the nuances of different impression materials and techniques, highlighting the need for precision to avoid future complications. Understanding the anatomy was crucial here; students learned to recognize a poorly taken impression and the circumstances under which they should request a retake from the dentist.

Following the impression, the focus shifted to the creation of plaster models. Antonello taught the meticulous process of pouring and setting the plaster to create a precise replica of the patient’s oral structures. He then guided students through the design and fabrication of individual trays, exploring both self-curing and light-curing resins, and discussing the pros and cons of each.

The next crucial phase involved the second impression and the creation of bite rims. Antonello provided in-depth instruction on how dentists accurately capture the occlusal vertical dimension (OVD) and other critical relationships between the dental arches. This step was fundamental for ensuring the functional and aesthetic success of the final denture.

Antonello’s curriculum also covered the complex task of setting the teeth in the articulator, teaching different methods and highlighting the significance of each approach. The final phase involved the dentist’s try-in of the dentures, adjustments, and the lab’s role in finishing the dentures with various types of resin.

Through this comprehensive workflow education, Antonello not only equipped students with the technical skills required for denture fabrication but also instilled in them the importance of understanding each step's impact on the overall treatment outcome. His teachings ensured that students left with a holistic view of denture fabrication, a skill set crucial for their future success in the field.

Transition to Digital Dentistry: Preparing for the Future

In his comprehensive educational journey, Antonello Croce masterfully guided students through the traditional workflow of denture fabrication and then skillfully transitioned to the burgeoning field of digital dentistry. This shift was not just a change in tools and materials but a significant paradigm shift in the entire denture fabrication process, underscoring the necessity for current and future dental professionals to embrace and adapt to technological advancements.

The digital workflow, as taught by Antonello, begins with digital impressions, a revolutionary step away from conventional physical molds. He introduced students to various digital scanning technologies, emphasizing their advantages in terms of accuracy, comfort, and efficiency. This digital approach not only streamlined the impression process but also reduced the margin for error, leading to better patient outcomes.

Following the digital impressions, Antonello delved into the design phase, where students learned to use sophisticated software to create detailed denture designs. This phase replaced the manual wax-up processes with digital precision, allowing for more accurate and aesthetically pleasing results. The software enabled students to simulate various dental scenarios, providing a more comprehensive understanding of potential outcomes.

The actual fabrication of the dentures also saw a significant shift with the introduction of technologies like 3D printing and CAD/CAM (Computer-Aided Design and Computer-Aided Manufacturing) systems. Antonello educated students on the selection of materials for digital dentures, the intricacies of the printing and milling processes, and the importance of post-processing techniques.

Antonello’s teachings in digital dentistry didn't just focus on the 'how' but also the 'why'. He stressed the importance of understanding each step in the digital workflow, not only for the sake of proficiency but to appreciate the impact of these technologies on the future of dental care. By equipping students with knowledge and skills in digital denture fabrication, Antonello prepared them for a future where digital solutions will be the norm, ensuring they remain at the forefront of dental technology and patient care advancements.

Ruthinium’s Role: Supporting Education and Advancement

Ruthinium played a pivotal role in Antonello Croce's educational endeavors by sponsoring various courses and actively participating in the advancement of dental technology education. Their support was instrumental in organizing workshops and theoretical-practical courses, which were vital components of the curriculum. These workshops, led by opinion leaders in dental technology like Antonello, combined theoretical knowledge with practical application, offering a holistic educational experience. Ruthinium's commitment to these courses not only enriched the learning process but also underscored their dedication to nurturing the next generation of dental professionals, ensuring they are well-equipped with the latest advancements in dental technology.