Masterclasses, Workshops and JCU Tour

Explore a variety of pre-conference Masterclasses, Workshops, and an exclusive Tour of the James Cook University Dental School on Thursday, 12 September 2024. Delegates can conveniently register for these additional experiences during the registration process.

We have also introduced a new Breakfast Masterclass ‘Juggling the Priorities’ on Friday, 13 September 2024. Demand is expected to be high so secure your ticket soon!

Masterclass A - The Business of Dentistry
Date: Thursday 12 September 2024
Time: 8:30am – 10:00am
CPD Hours: 1.5
Location: Meeting Room 10, Cairns Convention Centre
Cost: Members of RACDS $160 / Non-Members $200

Speakers: Dr Gerry Clausen (Prosthodontist) and Dr Kang Kim (General Dentist)
Description: Join this masterclass hosted by Dr Gerard Clausen and Dr Kang Kim as they provide insights into the intersection of dentistry and business. In a two-part session, these distinguished professionals shed light on the critical fusion of clinical expertise and business acumen required for success in the ever-evolving field of dentistry.

Dr Gerard Clausen challenges the conventional wisdom that dentistry is primarily a profession and only secondarily a business. Drawing on his experience, Dr Clausen exposes the essential interplay between clinical and communication skills and the nuanced understanding of the dental practice's broader environment. From navigating regulatory bodies to managing billing practices, his presentation explores the multifaceted aspects that impact every dental practitioner, offering a fresh perspective on the symbiotic relationship between the art of dentistry and the science of business.

Next, Dr Kang Kim takes the stage with his presentation titled "The Golden Ratio of Business and Healthcare." Delving into the fast-evolving landscape shaped by digital advancements, cultural shifts, and the unprecedented influence of social media, Dr Kim illuminates how these factors have redefined patient expectations and the delivery of healthcare services. The COVID-19 pandemic, acting as a catalyst for change, accelerated the adoption of digital health solutions, prompting a paradigm shift in the patient-provider dynamic.

In this intricate dance between business and healthcare, Dr Kim advocates for a delicate balance, emphasising the importance that business-driven decisions should balance in an ideal “golden ratio” with the foundational principles of healthcare and the expected ethical conduct of health practitioners. Through a historical lens, he traces the evolution of the dental profession, highlighting the impact of advertising restrictions, practice ownership regulations, and the rise of dental corporates. Dr Kim explores the pitfalls of uninformed business decision-making, offering insights into common accounting omissions and valuations that can hinder the success of dental practices.

As the masterclass unfolds, participants will gain valuable perspectives on how to navigate the complex business terrain of dentistry, armed with the knowledge presented by Dr Gerard Clausen and Dr Kang Kim.
Masterclass B - Cone Beam CT Review and Interpretation: A Guided Approach to Reviewing CBCT Scans
Date: Thursday 12 September 2024
Time: 10:30am – 12:00pm
CPD Hours: 1.5
Location: Meeting Room 10, Cairns Convention Centre
Cost: Members of RACDS $160 / Non-Members $200

Speakers: Dr Raahib Dudhia & Dr Jake Samuels (Specialist Oral and Maxillofacial Radiologists)
Description: Cone Beam CT is an invaluable diagnostic tool in dentistry and is used extensively for diagnosis and surgical planning. Specialist Dental Radiologists Raahib and Jake will share with you all the techniques and special tricks they use to reformat and review CBCT scans to help you become more confident when reviewing your clinical cases and planning treatment. Participants are encouraged to bring their own laptop (Mac or PC) so that they can follow along and master the skills required to efficiently review both small and large volume scans. CBCT viewing software and de-identified CBCT scans will be provided a few days before the workshop so that you can ensure you have everything you need to get started.
Masterclass C – Acute and Chronic Pain Management: Exploring Analgesics Pharmacology, Post-Surgical Pain, and the Biopsychosocial Model
Date: Thursday 12 September 2024
Time: 1:00pm – 2:30pm
CPD Hours: 1.5
Location: Meeting Room 10, Cairns Convention Centre
Cost: Members of RACDS $160 / Non-Members $200

Speakers: Dr Amanda Phoon Nguyen (Oral Medicine Specialist), Dr Leanne Teoh (Dentist and Pharmacist) and Dr Michael Burgess (Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon)
Description: The first segment of the masterclass will examine the pharmacology of commonly used analgesics in dentistry. Participants will explore the mechanism of action, side effects, appropriate prescribing, and considerations for individualizing treatment. Emphasis will be placed on striking a balance between effective pain relief and minimizing potential risks associated with medication use.

The second segment will delve into strategies for preventing post-surgical pain. The presentation will cover evidence-based interventions such as pre and perioperative analgesia for surgical procedures, and atraumatic surgical techniques. Participants will gain practical insights into preoperative evaluation, proper dosing, and personalized pain management plans to enhance surgical outcomes and improve patient satisfaction.

Lastly, the masterclass will address the biopsychosocial model of pain, acknowledging that pain is a complex phenomenon influenced by biological, psychological, and social factors. Through interactive discussions and case studies, participants will explore how the integration of physical, emotional, cognitive, and social aspects can optimize pain management outcomes and prevent sequelae such as post traumatic trigeminal neuropathic pain. Focus will also be given to informed consent tips.

Attendees will gain valuable insights and practical knowledge from experts in the field of pain management. This masterclass offers a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach, equipping participants with the necessary tools to improve pain relief, enhance patient care, and advance the management of acute and chronic pain.
Workshop D – Hands On Suturing Techniques
Date: Thursday 12 September 2024
Time: 2:30pm – 4:00pm
CPD Hours: 1.5
Location: Meeting Room 11, Cairns Convention Centre
Cost: Members of RACDS $260 / Non-Members $350

Speakers: Dr Alex Quaranta (Periodontist), Dr Lizzy Hui (Periodontist), Dr Michael Hurrell (Oral Maxillofacial Surgeon)
Description: Are you a dentist looking to enhance your suturing skills and elevate the quality of your dental procedures? Join us for an immersive and practical "Hands-On Suturing Techniques" Workshop designed exclusively for participants of The Fine Edge of Dentistry 2024.

Suturing is a fundamental skill in dentistry, crucial for ensuring optimal post-operative healing and patient satisfaction. This comprehensive masterclass will provide you with the knowledge, techniques, and confidence to perform suturing effectively and efficiently in your daily practice.

Key Highlights:
  • Foundations of Suturing: Explore the basics of suturing, including different suture materials, instruments, and needle types. Understand the principles of wound closure and tissue handling.
  • Suturing Techniques: Learn various suturing techniques, such as interrupted, continuous and mattress sutures. Discover when and how to apply each technique for different clinical scenarios.
  • Tissue Handling and Preservation: Master the art of tissue manipulation and preservation to achieve excellent aesthetic outcomes and minimise patient discomfort.
  • Suture Selection: Gain insights into selecting the right suture material for specific cases, considering factors like tissue type, location, and patient needs.
  • Complications and Troubleshooting: Learn how to identify and address common complications related to suturing, ensuring optimal patient recovery.
  • Hands-On Practice: Put your knowledge into action with hands-on suturing exercises using dental models and synthetic tissue. Receive personalised guidance and feedback from experienced instructors.
  • Live Demonstrations: Witness live demonstrations of suturing techniques by our expert instructors, highlighting key tips and tricks for success.
  • Case Studies: Analyse real-world case studies and learn from successful outcomes and challenging scenarios.
  • Interactive Q&A Sessions: Engage in interactive question-and-answer sessions with instructors, allowing you to clarify doubts and deepen your understanding.
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James Cook University Dental School Tour
Date: Thursday 12 September 2024
Time: 10:00am – 1:00pm
CPD Hours: 1.5
Location: James Cook University
Cost: Members of RACDS $50 / Non-Members $60 includes return bus transfer and lunch

Description: Explore the world-class dental teaching complex at James Cook University (JCU) and discover what makes its graduates among the most sought-after and work-ready dentists in Australia. As part of this session, you’ll receive a guided tour of JCU’s state-of-the-art clinical facilities set against a backdrop of beautiful Tropical rainforests, which has been training students and treating the Far North community since 2009.

After a tour of the facilities, you will hear from senior dental students and JCU academics about the unique training experience and some of the team’s oral health initiatives in regional, rural, remote, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

Lunch will be provided at the end of the session.
Breakfast Masterclass – Juggling the Priorities
Date: Friday 13 September 2024
Time: 7:00am – 8:30am
CPD Hours: 1.5
Location: Meeting Room 9, Cairns Convention Centre
Cost: Members of RACDS $90 / Non-Members $150 includes breakfast

Speakers:
Chair: Dr Amanda Phoon Nguyen (Oral Medicine Specialist)
Presenter: Trudy Lin (Special Needs Dentist)
Panelists: - Dr Erin Mahoney (Paediatric Dentist), Dr Sophia Richardson (Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon), Dr Sarah Coll (Orthopaedic Surgeon), and Dr Roxanne Wu (Vascular Surgeon), Dr Terence Alexander (Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon)

Description: In today's fast-paced world, health professionals face the challenge of balancing multiple priorities and increased pressures. The Breakfast Masterclass, featuring Dr Trudy Lin, Young Australian of the Year for South Australia and a double-certified mindset and leadership coach with expertise in Special Needs Dentistry, will provide delegates with evidence-based strategies rooted in cognitive behavioural science and psychosomatic techniques. Attendees will also gain insights from esteemed practitioners in a panel discussion on managing stress, juggling family, and enhancing job satisfaction, empowering them to deliver higher quality patient care while achieving personal and professional fulfillment.