JBLM AEGD Table Clinics

Post-graduate residents in the Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) Advanced Education in General Dentistry program will present table clinics on Thursday, May 8 from 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM. One CE credit available.


Dr. Emily Adelmann: Revitalizing Roots: Regenerative Endodontics for Periapical Healing
Children are often vulnerable to dental trauma and infections that can result in pulpal necrosis, leaving their developing teeth with thin, fragile roots prone to fracture. Traditional treatments like apexification address the infection but do not restore the tooth’s structure or vitality. Regenerative endodontics offers a new and exciting approach, using tissue engineering to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes, allowing for continued root development and restoration of pulpal vitality. This table clinic will cover ideal case selection, the biological foundations of regenerative therapy, and step-by-step treatment protocols to optimize outcomes while also addressing the challenges in technique sensitivity, patient compliance, and outcome variability.
Dr. Jack Birch: Resin Bonded Bridges in Modern Dentistry: Effective Strategies for Clinical Success
Traditionally, resin-bonded bridges have offered clinicians a minimally invasive approach to replacing anterior teeth. However, the advent of implant dentistry has led to resin-bonded bridges becoming a less common treatment option. Moreover, improper case selection has led to high relative failure rates and their subsequent under-utilization in modern dentistry. The aim of this table clinic is to explore evidence-based tips for clinical success when planning and fabricating a resin bonded bridge. Providing the general dentist practitioner with a guide to case selection, prep design, material selection, and correct cementation protocols will hopefully lead to greater long-term success when choosing resin bonded bridges as a restorative option.
Dr. Sonja Chesnutt: The Pouch Predicament: Nicotine Pouches and Oral Health
Oral nicotine pouches, used discreetly by placing them between the lip and gum, are a tobacco-free alternative composed of a permeable pouch filled with nicotine, flavors, and other food-grade ingredients. Emerging in the U.S. in 2016, their use has increased due to factors like perceived safety, curiosity, and flavor options. While these products are considered less harmful than cigarettes, they still pose health risks such as cardiovascular strain, gastrointestinal issues, and potential cancer risks from nicotine-derived carcinogens. Their effects on oral health, however, are not as well known. Limited research has shown nicotine pouches effect periodontal health, wound healing, and pose a risk for oral cancer, but we still lack sufficient data on their effects. This table clinic aims to explore the use of oral nicotine pouches and their effect on oral health, while providing dentists with the necessary tools for educating patients.
Dr. Samantha Garcia: Managing Dental Anxiety: Patient Selection for Oral Conscious Sedation
Dental anxiety is a widespread condition across patient populations, regardless of age, gender or military status. Management of dental anxiety is essential in building trust in the patient-provider relationship as it allows the provider to build rapport with patients and to render treatment in an efficient manner. Oral conscious sedation is an effective adjunct to manage dental anxiety and to create a positive patient experience. Benzodiazepines have been shown to be effective anxiolytics during dental procedures when utilized for oral conscious sedation. However, patient selection is essential for successful result. This table clinic will discuss decision-making factors to consider when assessing a patient as a candidate for oral conscious sedation.
Dr. Sheream Reed: When to Refer: A Guide for Managing Odontogenic Infections in General Dentistry
Odontogenic infections are common yet potentially life-threatening if not managed promptly. Delayed referrals can result in prolonged hospitalization and complex treatments, especially in patients with systemic conditions like diabetes. This table clinic equips general dentists with essential tools to determine when to manage infections in-office and when referral to an oral surgeon is necessary. Using evidence-based criteria, including trismus, difficulty breathing, and systemic complications, the clinic emphasizes the importance of early intervention. Attendees will learn through real-world case examples, and practical guidelines, gaining the confidence to assess severity, prioritize patient safety, and ensure timely specialist referrals for optimal health outcomes.
Dr. Dong Ho Shin: MAD Adjustments: Fine-Tuning for TMJ Wellness
Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs) are widely used in the treatment of OSA; however, they can pose risks to the TMJ, with 5-25% of users experiencing symptoms like pain, stiffness and discomfort. The biomechanical effects of MADs, such as altering the condylar position and placing additional stress on the TMJ, can exacerbate pre-existing joint issues or create new ones. To minimize these risks, general dentists must implement evidence-based strategies, including pre-treatment screening, device customization, patient education, and regular follow-ups. This table clinic will discuss practical approaches to fine-tuning MAD adjustments to optimize TMJ wellness and improve patient outcomes.
Dr. Owen Ward: Silver Diamine Fluoride: Is it relevant in adult patients?
Silver Diamine Fluoride is a commonly used caries arresting and prevention adjunct for pediatric patients and for tooth sensitivity in older adults with root exposures. However, many of the original uses for SDF can extend further than the primary or aging dentitions. From the first eruption of permanent molars, SDF is an inexpensive and painless procedure to combat the effects of socioeconomic, military, and outside factors that may take a toll on the population’s teeth. Silver Diamine Fluoride offers a simple solution to the progression of dental decay in everyone. This table clinic will explore the potential scenarios and uses.