Taking the Pain of Out Anesthesia:
A Win-Win Approach for Patient Comfort & Clinician Longevity

Presenter: Brett A. Gilbert, DDS, FICD
Date & Time: Tuesday, July 21, 2026 · 08:00 PM EST

Webinar Description:

This presentation teaches a practical, evidence-based approach to local anesthesia designed to improve both patient comfort and clinician efficiency. Participants will learn how to apply gate control theory, tissue-pulling techniques, and computer-controlled delivery systems to minimize injection discomfort, as well as how to manage “hot” teeth using a structured step-up anesthesia protocol. Emphasis is also placed on verifying true anesthetic success and reducing occupational strain through improved delivery methods and ergonomic strategies, while recognizing and managing common anesthesia-related complications.

Course Outline:

By the end of this webinar, participants will be able to:

Apply gate control theory & tissue-pulling technique to deliver local anesthesia (infiltration and IAN blocks) with minimal patient discomfort, using rubbing/shaking motion and computer-controlled delivery to counteract the "too fast, too painful" reflex.
Sequence a step-up anesthesia protocol for the symptomatic (hot) tooth—infiltration, regional block, PDL injection (bevel to bone), intraosseous, and intrapulpal—and confirm anesthetic success by reproducing pre-treatment cold and percussion tests rather than relying on subjective lip/cheek numbness
Identify strategies to reduce clinician physical strain and occupational risk during anesthesia delivery, including hand- vs. foot-controlled delivery systems (e.g. Calaject), and recognize and manage common complications (needle stick, paresthesia, epinephrine reaction, hematoma)

COURSE INSTRUCTOR:

Brett E. Gilbert, DDS, FICD

Dr. Brett E. Gilbert is a Board-Certified Endodontist, educator, speaker, podcast host, and wellness advocate. He is Partner at Specialized Dental Partners (2020–present) and Principal of King Endodontics in Niles, Illinois (2005–present), as well as Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Endodontics at the University of Illinois Chicago College of Dentistry (2004–present). He is the Founder and President of Access Endo Impact Academy and creator/host of On The Cusp Podcast, along with co-hosting For The Love of Endo Podcast. He earned his Certificate in Endodontics, DDS magna cum laude, and BS cum laude from the University of Maryland and is a Diplomate of the American Board of Endodontics (2012, re-certified 2021).

He has delivered over 200 lectures and workshops globally and is recognized for expertise in 3D endodontics, irrigation innovations, minimally invasive techniques, and clinician wellness. His academic contributions include 20+ peer-reviewed publications focused on obturation, CBCT imaging, and irrigation advancements. Dr. Gilbert is actively involved in leadership and service, including past presidency roles in state and local dental associations, board positions with Dental Mental Network and X-Biomedical, and volunteer clinical outreach. His work has earned multiple honors, including Fellow of the International College of Dentists (2022), CourseKarma Top Instructor of the Year (2020), and recognition as one of the Top Ten Young Dental Educators in America. His professional focus includes endodontic care, education, clinician wellness, public speaking, and dental industry consulting.

Course Fees:

Complimentary for Members & Non-Members