Durban 17 November 2026 Denture Course

Location:
Coastlands Umhlanga
https://www.coastlands.co.za/umhlanga/
 
Time: 09:00-12:00
 
Complete Dentures from Diagnosis to Successful Retention 
 
Denture and patient evaluation, treatment planning.
Secondary impression taking and compound techniques.
Delivery steps and procedures of complete denture and balanced occlusion towards retention.
 
What you will learn:
Prof Riaan Mulder – Primary impression taking options. (Level 1 – 1 CEU Lecture).
 
This lecture focuses on elevating full denture construction through advanced impression techniques, moving beyond traditional methods. It emphasises on accurate impressions that are crucial for optimal denture fit, patient comfort, and retention. The session begins by reviewing the limitations of conventional techniques and stock trays, highlighting inaccuracies and potential tissue displacement. It then delves into advanced approaches like selective pressure, mucostatic, and functional impressions, each designed to capture detailed anatomical structures and functional movements with greater precision. Digital impressions, utilising intraoral scanners, are not discussed. The lecture also covers advanced impression materials, such as polyether and addition silicones, and provides clinical protocols for achieving optimal border molding. Furthermore, it addresses managing challenging anatomical situations, offering strategies for severe ridge resorption, undercuts, and flabby ridges. Case studies and troubleshooting tips are included to solidify understanding and practical application. 
 
Prof Riaan Mulder – Secondary impression taking and compound techniques. (Level 1 – 1 CEU Lecture).
The lecture emphasise on the critical role of accurate impressions in achieving optimal denture fit, stability, and patient comfort. Green stick compound, a thermoplastic material, will be highlighted for its efficacy in border molding, defining the functional depth and width of denture borders, and recording muscle attachments. The lecture detailed proper softening techniques, incremental application, and functional molding. Correct material handling is discussed to avoid overheating and ensuring precise border definition. Subsequently, red compound cakes, characterized by their higher viscosity and ability to capture fine tissue details, will be introduced. The lecture explain their use in secondary impressions, providing an accurate record of the denture-bearing area and ensuring uniform denture base support. The PowerPoint also address the advantages and disadvantages of these materials, including their cost-effectiveness and potential for distortion if mishandled. Supplemental materials to enhance the final record of the soft tissue is discussed alongside common errors and solutions, such as temperature control and proper application techniques. Infection control protocols of the impressions will be discussed, emphasizing the importance of disinfection to prevent cross contamination. Prof Mulder will show a live demonstration withing the lecture to provide dentists with insight to the materials. This holistic training approach ensure participants can translate theoretical knowledge into practical procedures, ultimately improving positive patient outcomes in denture construction and reduced post-insertion adjustments.
 
Delivery steps and procedures of complete denture and balanced occlusion towards retention, (Level 1 – 1 CEU Lecture).
 
This lecture provide a practical guide to the critical delivery and adjustment phases of new full upper and lower dentures. The sequential delivery steps are discussed, ensuring optimal patient comfort and denture functionality. Emphasis will be placed on meticulous intraoral assessments, including evaluating denture stability, retention, and border extensions.
A significant portion of the lecture will focus on occlusion balancing. I will explore various methods for assessing occlusal contacts, such as using articulating paper and visual inspection. Techniques for selective grinding and adjustments will be demonstrated in the lecture content to achieve even and simultaneous bilateral contacts, preventing discomfort and promoting proper masticatory function and stability. The importance of patient feedback throughout the adjustment process will be highlighted.
Furthermore, I will address common post-insertion issues and provide strategies for managing them. This lecture will equip dentists with the skills and knowledge necessary to deliver well-fitting, balanced dentures, leading to enhanced patient satisfaction and successful long-term outcomes.