West of Scotland Branch: Cautionary tales - avoiding the pitfalls of clear aligner treatment

What to expect

This session aims to raise awareness of the indications and limitations of aligner treatment, with a particular focus on identifying common pitfalls and implementing effective strategies to prevent them.

It also highlights the importance of thorough pre-treatment assessment, appropriate case selection, informed consent, and meticulous record-keeping to support successful clinical outcomes.

In addition, guidance will be provided on how to recognise and manage issues that may arise during and after treatment, helping clinicians navigate challenges effectively throughout the patient journey.

Timings

18:30   Registration and tea/coffee

19:00   Lecture - Richard George

20:30   End of lecture

Learning objectives

• Learn the rudiments of a basic orthodontic examination
• Identify complex or inappropriate aligner cases
• Understand that aligner treatment hinges on more than the technology
• Appreciate when seeking advice from a TPS or specialist could be beneficial.

Development outcomes

A, C and B

Meet the speaker

Richard George studied dentistry at King’s College London and qualified in 1992. Following a house officer post, he then spent three years as an SHO in oral and maxillofacial surgery at hospitals in Reading and Brighton.

He then worked in general dental practice in South London before starting the three-year full-time postgraduate orthodontic training course at Guy’s Hospital. He was awarded an MSc from the University of London and the Membership in Orthodontics from the Royal College of Surgeons of England in September 2000, which allowed him to be registered as a specialist orthodontist with the GDC. He has worked in mixed NHS/private specialist orthodontic practice ever since.

He was a director of Total Orthodontics Ltd, now owned by Bupa, and continues to work there as an associate. He is a director of Aligner Intelligence Ltd, an online Treatment Planning Service for clear aligner treatment.

He has been president of the Tunbridge Wells Orthodontic Study Group, secretary of the British Lingual Orthodontic Society, editor of British Orthodontic Society News, and director of external relations and board member of the British Orthodontic Society.

He has a keen interest in treating complex adult multidisciplinary cases. He is a Platinum Elite Level Invisalign Provider and has completed over a thousand clear aligner cases.