Mastering Ridge Preservation – Improving Patient Outcomes

Mastering Ridge Preservation – Improving Patient Outcomes is organized by Australian Dental Association Queensland Branch (ADAQ) and will be held on Jul 31, 2026 at ADAQ CPD and Training Centre, Bowen Hills, Queensland, Australia.

Course Overview:
The inevitable consequence of tooth extraction is resorption and remodelling of the alveolar ridge.  The decrease in ridge dimensions can make subsequent management (i.e., implants, bridges, or dentures) more challenging for both clinician and patient.  Clinical research and experience suggest that early surgical intervention with appropriate biomaterials can help minimise the extent of this early bone loss.  This intervention, called Ridge Preservation, involves the placement of biomaterials into the extraction socket with the view of compensating for the loss of bone and providing a scaffold for new bone formation.   

This workshop will review the evidence for alveolar ridge preservation procedures and describe the surgical techniques involved.  Hands-on exercises on dedicated simulation models will allow clinicians to practice these techniques under the expert supervision of Dr Christopher Barker.   The knowledge and skills gained can be immediately incorporated into your everyday clinical practice. 
 
Workshop includes:  

• Ridge Preservation – Scientific evidence and surgical principles  
• Options for managing partially edentulous sites – Pre-extraction and  post-extraction considerations 
• Role of Biomaterials in Ridge Preservation – Properties and application 

Hands-on exercises:

• Use of models designed to simulate practical ridge preservation procedures  
• Correct application of appropriate biomaterials for bone regeneration   
• Suturing techniques

Learning objectives:

• Understand the process of alveolar ridge resorption and remodelling after tooth extraction.
• Learn the principles and evidence supporting Ridge Preservation techniques.
• Learn about different atraumatic approaches to the extraction of teeth.
• Explore pre-extraction and post-extraction considerations for managing partially edentulous sites. 
• Gain knowledge about the properties and applications of biomaterials in Ridge Preservation.
• Practice ridge preservation procedures using simulation models.
• Develop skills in the correct application of biomaterials for bone regeneration.
• Master suturing techniques relevant to Ridge Preservation. 
• Integrate the acquired knowledge and skills into everyday clinical practice.