The cranio-mandibular complex frequently presents the restorative dentist with challenges to predictable, long-lasting dental therapies. Structural and Functional pathology determines the necessary scope of diagnosis before a treatment can be recommended. Thorough evaluation and understanding of the patient’s present
condition will help the restorative dentist decide when appliance therapy is indicated, when referral is appropriate, and what restorative option will provide the best result.

Course Objectives:

Assess the functional anatomy of the cranio-mandibular system. Use the diagnostic keys in recognizing joint
pathology. Implement rationale for determining what could be treated and what should be referred. Implement a system of diagnostic determination for design, expectations, and follow-up of individualized occlusal appliances.

About Our Presenter:

Dr. DeWood has been practicing restorative dentistry since 1980 and actively involved in teaching since 1992. In 2003 teaching became his primary activity when he accepted a position as Clinical Director at The Pankey Institute. In 2008 he relocated to Seattle to serve as president of The Seattle Institute, Dr. Frank Spear’s education company. As one of the two founding clinicians of Spear Education, he relocated to Phoenix to serve as executive vice president of the newly formed Spear Education in Scottsdale. Spear Education was sold to a venture capital firm in 2023 and his position was eliminated. Gary has held appointments as assistant professor at the Arizona School of Oral and Dental Health; associate professor at the University of Tennessee School of Dentistry; and assistant professor at the University of Toledo College of Medicine. Today he is active in teaching at The Pankey Institute and as a principal in Global Diagnosis Education. He is also active with speaking engagements and works with individual and group practices as a coach. He continues to see patients in private practice with his practice partner Dr. Lee Ann Brady at Desert Sun Smiles in Glendale, Arizona.