Advanced Ortho Module

Continuing education for registered dental hygienists (RDHs) and registered dental assistants (RDAs)

CE credits will vary* | $600 | Hybrid (Lecture + Clinical Hands-on) | Limited capacity

* This number is an estimate. Your regulatory body will issue the credits.

Elevate your clinical skill set with this advanced module designed specifically for graduates of the University of Alberta’s orthodontic module. As clear aligner therapy becomes a standard of care, the ability to efficiently place and remove aesthetic attachments is a vital skill for any orthodontic auxiliary.

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What you'll learn | Pricing and details | Faculty

What you will learn

Course summary

This half-day intensive course bridges the gap between theory and chairside application. We begin with a focused lecture on the mechanics of tooth movement and patient comfort, followed by an extensive hands-on workshop. You will master the nuances of template loading, bonding protocols, and the safe, efficient removal of attachments without compromising enamel integrity.

Upon completion of this module, participants will be able to:

Identify different attachment shapes and their specific mechanical functions.
Demonstrate proficiency in loading and seating attachment templates.
Perform a full bonding sequence with minimal cleanup required.
Execute safe removal techniques using appropriate burs and polishing discs.

Syllabus

The module will include the following lectures:

Introduction to clear aligner mechanics: Why we use attachments and how they facilitate complex tooth movement.
Clinical processes: Step-by-step workflow for "attachments."
Patient comfort and communication: Managing expectations and troubleshooting common issues.

Participants will also get hands-on with the following workshops:

Loading the tray: Best practices for composite selection and template preparation to avoid "flash."
Bonding attachments: Precision placement, curing techniques, and moisture control.
Removal of attachments: Techniques for safe debonding and polishing to restore a smooth enamel surface.

Questions?

Pricing and details

Prerequisites

Active practicing RDH or RDA license from your regulatory authority
Completion of the orthodontics module for RDAs and RDHs from the University of Alberta

Class format

The class will run in-person from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the University of Alberta's North campus.

Prerequisites

Active practicing RDH or RDA license from your regulatory authority

View Available Dates and Pricing

Our leading faculty

Dr. Manuel Oscar Lagravère Vich
Director, orthodontic graduate program

Dr. Lagravère, DDS, MSc, PhD, was born in Lima, Peru, where he completed his degree in dental science (2000) and masters in science (2003) at the Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia.

After this, he moved to Edmonton to pursue a PhD in orthodontic which was completed in July 2009 in the University of Alberta. Since then, Lagravère has moved in the faculty ranks being promoted to tenured-professor in orthodontics since July 2023 where he is involved in teaching orthodontics to undergraduates and postgraduates students.

During his time in teaching and doing research, Lagravère has won several awards and has published over 160 papers in important scientific journals. In July 2025, he became the director of the orthodontic graduate program at the University of Alberta.

Presently, he runs several clinical trials involving orthodontic treatments and its impact on airway, skeletal, and dental changes. In several of these trials, he works jointly with universities from the US, Italy, Spain, Germany, and Mexico. His research mainly focuses on the areas of maxillary expansion, bone-anchored mechanics, and three-dimensional analysis. He is also the Director of the Applied Oral Health Research Unit.

Open Directory Listing | manuel@ualberta.ca