The integration of dental implants into daily practice has introduced a new perspective to the decision-making process when selecting appropriate dental treatments. The option of discarding teeth to make way for dental implants, even in cases of seemingly good teeth, has become a consideration, often justified by factors like simplicity and strategic needs.

Before opting to discard teeth, clinicians should pose several crucial questions. Are dental implants a superior choice compared to retaining compromised teeth? Do the supporting tissues remain stable over the years, and how do they react to the presence of implants? Can a single implant seamlessly blend into the arch, resembling a natural tooth, among other considerations? 

This presentation will delve into clinical dilemmas, available options, and effective solutions, all rooted in the substantial potential inherent in natural teeth.

Professor Ami Smidt

Professor Ami Smidt is a Professor of Prosthodontics in the Department of Prosthodontics at The Hebrew University-Hadassah, School of Dental Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel. He received his D.M.D. degree from Jerusalem's Hebrew University and his M.Sc. degree in Oral Microbiology (Cum Laude). He received his certificate in Prosthodontics, became a Diplomat of the Israeli Board of Prosthodontics, and held teaching, research, and clinical positions at this University. Professor Smidt headed the Center for Graduate Studies in Prosthodontics in the school from 2003 to 2017 and currently teaches students in the senior clinical years. He lectures extensively in international forums on topics related to interdisciplinary comprehensive prosthodontic treatment planning combining orthodontics and periodontics for better functional and aesthetic results including dental implants. Professor Smidt served as President and Editor of the Israel Society of Prosthodontics, is a member of several professional organizations and served as a board member of The International College of Prosthodontists.

Educational aims and objectives

• Prepare teeth minimally and restore tooth material with partial coverage restorations.
• Moving teeth to realign before the prosthetic phase if at all.
• Comparing teeth survival and dental implants after time
• Challenging cases and their solution

Learning outcomes

• Know the 3 main causes for dental treatment
• Know the effect of dental implants on the surrounding tissues after time
• Learn the advantages of teeth alignment
• Learn the way of using resected multi- rooted teeth in prosthetic rehabilitation
• Know the direct effect of orthodontics on the surrounding tissues 

GDC development outcome

B,D