Summary - Complex restorative care in 2027 — From core principles to modern approaches

COURSE DESCRIPTION

Drawing on more than four decades of clinical experience, Dr. Tom McDonald explores the evolution of complex restorative dentistry and how advancements in materials, techniques and scientific understanding have transformed modern treatment approaches. While the foundational principles established by leading clinicians and researchers remain relevant, today’s innovations allow for more conservative, efficient and predictable restorative solutions.

Through a comprehensive approach to diagnosis, treatment planning and case management, attendees will gain insight into the clinical and communication skills essential to delivering comprehensive restorative care. Dr. McDonald will share his current protocols for managing complex cases, with an emphasis on strategic treatment staging, long-term provisionalization and individualized treatment planning.

Participants will explore practical strategies for navigating restorative challenges, improving treatment predictability and applying contemporary techniques across a wide range of clinical scenarios.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

Examine the scientific advancements and evolving clinical philosophies that have shaped restorative dentistry over the past four decades.
Identify the essential communication strategies and clinical skills necessary for implementing a comprehensive restorative care model.
Explain the role of strategic treatment staging and long-term provisionalization in improving predictability and managing complex restorative cases.
Apply contemporary diagnostic and treatment-planning strategies to develop individualized approaches for complex restorative cases.

Dr. Tom McDonald

Dr. McDonald received his dental degree from the Medical College of Georgia School of Dentistry. He maintains a full-time restorative practice in Athens, Georgia. Since 1983, Dr. McDonald has served on the faculty of Augusta University Dental College of Georgia as Clinical Instructor of Oral Rehabilitation. He is a frequent lecturer in the area of occlusion, esthetics, complex restorative dentistry and treatment staging. Dr. McDonald has lectured and presented hands-on courses at most national meetings over the past 40 years. A dedicated clinician and teacher, he mentors three residency programs, teaches complex restorative occlusion for the AAID Implant Maxi Course, serves as an opinion leader for several dental manufacturers, publishes technique articles and webinars and serves on the editorial review board of the Journal of Esthetic and Restorative Dentistry. In 2026, he was honored with life membership in the American Academy of Restorative Dentistry.