Frontline Defense: The Dental Team’s Role in Oral Cancer Prevention

This comprehensive course explores the contemporary application of Resin-Bonded Fixed Dental Prostheses (RBFDPs) as a conservative and effective alternative to dental implants for anterior tooth replacement. Initially introduced in the 1970s, RBFDPs have evolved significantly with advances in adhesive dentistry, ceramic materials, and digital workflows such as CAD/CAM.

Participants will gain an in-depth understanding of the principles, indications, and techniques for successful RBFDP placement. The course covers various design options—including cantilever, two-wing, and wingless approaches—with emphasis on case selection, tooth preparation (when necessary), bonding protocols, and long-term maintenance.

Through evidence-based discussions, clinical case reviews, and hands-on demonstrations (if applicable), attendees will learn how to incorporate RBFDPs into their daily practice, particularly for patients where implants are contraindicated due to anatomical, medical, or financial reasons.

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

1.    Understand the prevalence of oral cancer
2.    Identify common oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs)
3.    Select the diagnostic process and appropriate management of OPMDs to prevent transformation to oral cancer

 NEETHA SANTOSH, BDS, MS is a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Oral Pathology, Medicine, and Radiology at the Indiana University School of Dentistry. She completed an Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology residency at the Ohio State University College of Dentistry, where she was also granted an MS degree. Dr. Santosh is a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology and a fellow of the American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology and the American College of Dentists. She directs and teaches multiple pre-doctoral and post-graduate courses and participates in an active surgical oral pathology biopsy practice at IUSD. She also serves on the editorial board of the Indiana Dental Association Journal and the national committees for the Integrated National Board Dental Examination and the American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology. She has won several awards, including the IU Office for Women Recognition Award and the IU Trustee’s Teaching Award.