Bioactive Restorative Materials: Unraveling the Confusion, Exploring the Promise, and Understanding the Benefits for Clinical Practice

This 90-minute continuing education course will explore into the evolving field of bioactive restorative materials, addressing the confusion surrounding their application, the scientific advancements driving their promise, and the potential benefits they offer to restorative dentistry. Through a combination of evidence-based insights and clinical examples, participants will gain a clear understanding of what these materials can contribute to clinical practice, how they compare to traditional materials, and whether they meet the needs of patients and dentists. Expect to leave with practical knowledge on integrating bioactive materials into everyday clinical workflows. 

Upon completion of this course, participants should be able to:

• Understand the Fundamentals: Explain the key principles of bioactive restorative materials, including their composition, mechanisms of action, and how they differ from traditional restorative materials.
• Evaluate Clinical Benefits: Assess the potential benefits and limitations of bioactive materials in restorative dentistry, focusing on their role in promoting remineralization, reducing secondary caries, and enhancing long-term outcomes.
• Debunk Common Misconceptions: Identify and clarify common misunderstandings and uncertainties surrounding bioactive materials, enabling more informed decision-making in clinical practice.

Dr. Mary Anne Melo (DDS, MSc, Ph.D., Fellow ADM, Pierre Fouchard, American College of Dentistry) is a distinguished Clinical Professor and Chair of the Department of Comprehensive Dentistry at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry. With her extensive background in both clinical practice and dental materials research, Dr. Melo is at the forefront of developing smart, bioactive restorative materials. Her clinical interests are primarily in minimally invasive dentistry, management of patients at high risk of caries, and enhancing aesthetic dental outcomes. Dr. Melo's research has been instrumental in pioneering studies on antibacterial and remineralizing dental adhesives and resin composites, focusing on anticaries strategies with antibacterial, and remineralization functionalities. An active member of several prestigious dental organizations, including the Academy of Operative Dentistry, the International Association for Dental Research, the American Academy of Cariology, and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, she contributes significantly to the dental community. Dr. Melo has authored three books and over 200 publications. Her work is supported by numerous grants, and she is a sought-after speaker both nationally and internationally on topics related to restorative dentistry.