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Course Description

Minimally Invasive Dentistry (MID) is transforming oral healthcare by prioritizing prevention, early detection, and patient-centered care over traditional restorative approaches. In this CE course, dental hygienists will explore their vital role in implementing and supporting MID principles within clinical practice. Participants will gain a thorough understanding of the philosophy and science behind minimally invasive techniques, including risk assessment, non-surgical interventions, remineralization therapies, and patient education strategies. The course will cover the latest advancements, evidence-based protocols, and practical tools for caries management, and we will discuss the integration of digital technologies to enhance early detection. Attendees will learn how to collaborate with the dental team to champion MID, improve patient outcomes, and motivate behavior change for lifelong oral health. This course is ideal for dental hygienists seeking to enhance their skills and positively impact patient care through the adoption of minimally invasive approaches.



 

Learner Outcomes


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

  • Define minimally invasive dentistry (MID) and its core principles.
  • Identify the dental hygienist’s role in risk assessment and early intervention.
  • Discuss evidence-based prevention and remineralization strategies.
  • Integrate new technologies for early detection of caries and periodontal disease.
  • Communicate effectively with patients about MID and motivate them to adopt preventive behaviors.
  • Collaborate with the dental team to deliver patient-centered, minimally invasive care.

Notes

Speaker

Martha McComas, RDH, BS, MS

After receiving an Associate of Science in Dental Hygiene from Indiana University in 2002, She practiced clinical dental hygiene for 10 years in both a general and periodontal practice. She completed her Bachelor of Arts in 2009 from Indiana University and a Master of Science in Dental Hygiene from the University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio in 2012.  She began teaching as a clinical instructor at Indiana University-Fort Wayne in 2007 and became full-time in 2012. In 2013 she moved to Michigan where she joined the Division of Dental Hygiene at the University of Michigan. Martha McComas is an accomplished educator and leader in interprofessional healthcare, currently serving as Director of Interprofessional Education for the University of Michigan School of Dentistry. With a background in administration, teaching, clinical practice, and research, Ms. McComas is dedicated to advancing team-based, person-centered care through innovative interprofessional education (IPE). She founded the Dental Navigator program, collaborating with emergency medicine and social services to improve oral healthcare for the underserved. As an Interprofessional Leadership Fellow, she has led curriculum reform efforts and mentored students in impactful research. Ms. McComas is an active member of the University of Michigan Center for Interprofessional Education and the National CAMBRA Coalition, The American Academy of Cariology, and contributes to the American Dental Education Association. Her work focuses on reducing healthcare fragmentation and improving patient outcomes through collaborative practice, educational leadership, and research. Ms.  McComas is committed to fostering professional connections and driving excellence in interprofessional healthcare education.



 
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