Overview:

This is an introductory course for dentists looking to incorporate neuromodulators into their clinical practice. The course will provide the foundational knowledge on the therapeutic use of botulinum toxin to enhance dental treatment outcomes. The course comprises didactic teaching, practical hands-on training for preparation and administration of Botulinum Toxin. Attendees are invited to bring along patients for administration of Botulinum Toxin under supervision of the instructors.

The course is open to Dentists, Oral Health Therapists and Dental Hygienists 

Day 1:

Areas which will be covered include but not limited to:

• Improving the cosmetic framing of the smile
• Enhancement of natural facial features
• Gummy smile treatment
• Smoker’s lines
• TMD and myofascial pain treatment
• Oromandibular dystonias
• Sialorrhea
• Trigeminal neuralgias
• Restorative loading and protection

Day 2:

Practical hands-on training for preparation of different brands of Botulinum toxins and practice training on manikins. Students may also register with the practice to have treatment provided on the day by students under supervision or by the instructors for treatments which meet clinical indications. A knowledge-based and clinical skills assessment will be completed as part of the program to receive a certificate of completion for the course. Clinicians will be able to introduce the teaching immediately into their clinical practice. Course contents are in line with NZDC decision on practice standards for advanced and new areas of practice June 2023.

Learning Outcomes that meet the New Zealand Dental Council (NZDC) guidance on advanced and new areas of practice June 2023

• Understand the patient assessment and consultation process for the use of Botulinum Toxin by dentists, oral heath therapists and dental hygienists within the scope of practice. Have a thorough knowledge of the legislation of the law around Authorised Prescribers and the need for a Standing Order for oral health therapists and dental hygienists to administer Botulinum Toxin.
• Understand the pharmacology of Botulinum Toxins and its short- and long-term effects.
• Thorough understanding of the indications and contraindications for the pharmaceutical agent.
• In depth understanding of the anatomy, neurophysiology, musculature and circulatory system of the peri-oral region
• Appreciate the different mechanisms of the facial ageing process
• Knowledge of possible adverse reaction, strategies to limit complications and its management when it does occur
• Ability to calculate proper dosing and delivery of Botulinum Toxin to patients
• Review of sterile techniques for facial injectables
• Demonstrate an ability to safely perform facial injectable treatments

Following the course, all graduates are invited to join the COMPLIMENTARY Dental Artistry Academy Neuromodulators Study Group