The Gnathostomatic System Under Attack

Evaluating the Destructive Effects of Acid, Xerostomia, TMD, Bruxism, and Disturbed Sleep
Presented by: Dr. Gene Santucci
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General Dentists, Dental Hygienists

Audience

July 8, 2026

Date

7:30 PM Central

Time

1 CE Credit

Credits

Free

Cost

Live Webinar Lecture

Method

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About the Course

Course Contents

Course Description

As general dentists, our understanding of patient evaluation and treatment continues to expand. No longer can we rely solely on a basic medical history when diagnosing and treatment planning. Clinicians must look deeper to identify the underlying etiologies contributing to hard and soft tissue destruction within the oral environment.

Dr. Santucci will explore the complex interaction between xerostomia, acid exposure, bruxism, temporomandibular disorders, and disturbed sleep. Attendees will gain practical insight into diagnosis, risk assessment, and minimally invasive treatment approaches to better manage these increasingly common conditions.

Learning Objectives

  • Evaluate the effects of xerostomia on hard and soft oral tissues
  • Differentiate normal tooth wear from parafunctional activity and assess its impact on the TMJ
  • Analyze the destructive effects of internal and external acids on the oral environment
  • Apply practical strategies for evaluating dietary habits and acid exposure
  • Identify the differences between healthy and disturbed sleep patterns
  • Describe minimally invasive treatment options, preventive strategies, and available products for patient care

The Gnathostomatic System Under Attack

 Course Details

  • Course Fee: Free
  • Credits: Catapult Education designates this activity for 1 credit continuing education credit.
  • Method: Live Webinar Lecture
  • Audience: General Dentists, Dental Hygienists
  • AGD Subject Code: 730

Meet the Instructor

Gene Santucci, DDS, MA, FACD

Dr. Gene Santucci is an Associate Professor in the Department of Preventive and Restorative Dentistry at the University of the Pacific Dugoni School of Dentistry, San Francisco, CA. He is co-director of the Dental Sleep Mini-Residency Program, and Content Coordinator for Sleep Medicine. He also holds a Masters Degree in Educational Psychology and Counseling.

Dr. Santucci has presented nationally and internationally on the topics of dental sleep medicine, ADHD in children and sleep related disorders, occlusion, aesthetics, temporomandibular disorders, photography, functional anatomy of the gnathostomatic system and the fabrication and delivery of night guards. He is a published author contributing to numerous articles in refereed journals and abstracts, along with a task force report regarding sleep medicine, and course content in dental education. His textbook contributions include: Patient Examinations in an Esthetic Dentistry Practice, Headache and Facial Pain.

Dr. Santucci has been awarded membership in the following associations: the American College of Dentists, Pierre Fauchard Academy, American Academy of Integrated Pain Management, American Dental Educators Association, American Academy of Sleep Medicine, American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, California Sleep Society, American Association of Oral Systemic Health, American Dental Association and California Dental Association. He is a member of Catapult Education's Speakers Bureau and reviews dental products for them.

Dr. Santucci’s goal is to encourage all dental professionals to become the first line of defense regarding the evaluation, referral, and treatment for the various types of sleep disturbances from snoring to obstructive sleep apnea in children and adults.

Sponsored by:

Catapult Education, LLC is an ADA CERP Recognized Provider. ADA CERP is a service of the American Dental Association to assist dental professionals in identifying quality providers of continuing dental education. ADA CERP does not approve or endorse individual courses or instructors, nor does it imply acceptance of credit hours by boards of dentistry.
Approved PACE Program Provider. FAGD/MAGD Credit. Approval does not imply acceptance by a state or provincial board of dentistry or AGD endorsement. 6/1/24 to 5/31/28. Provider ID 306446.

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Disclosure

This Catapult Education, LLC presentation is made possible through the continued support of TBD. Dr. Eugene Santucci is s a consultant and/or speaker for the following companies and/or organizations: Catapult Education, LLC,. Dr. Eugene Santucci may receive an honorarium as compensation from the CE Supporter of this presentation for the time involved in preparing and delivering this online presentation.

Catapult Education is an approved AGD PACE and ADA CERP Provider, delivering clinically relevant continuing dental education designed to meet the needs of dental professionals and support the integration of new techniques, practice management strategies, and treatment options into practice.

Catapult Education is committed to maintaining the quality, objectivity, and scientific integrity of all courses. Content is grounded in scientific research, and instructors are expected to support clinical recommendations with research-based data. Instructors must disclose any conflicts of interest or relationships with commercial entities, including financial support, honoraria, or provision of products and equipment, and are required to present content free from commercial bias. Where appropriate, they are encouraged to present a range of product options to ensure a balanced view of therapeutic approaches.