Core Curriculum - Dentist

Core 2: Examination & Records

Examination and Records is one of the most important dental courses that a dentist will master on the path to complete dentistry. The cornerstone of the Dawson philosophy begins with a thorough comprehensive examination and the gathering of necessary records accurately. As Dr. Dawson says “every great treatment plan comes from a well organized Records appointment”.

The examination and accompanying records are the first step in the process of complete dentistry. This hands-on program will cover all aspects of the exam and records process.

Course Size: 20

Enroll Today
May. 15-17, 2025
Denver, CO
$6,595.00
Jun. 05-07, 2025
Carrollton, TX
$6,395.00
Jul. 24-26, 2025
East Hanover, NJ
$6,395.00
Aug. 21-23, 2025
St. Petersburg, FL
$6,395.00
Nov. 13-15, 2025
Tarzana, CA
$6,395.00
Event Price
Event Location
Event Capacity
Event Date Range
Accurate Records, Every Time.
Dawson-Academy-Core-2-FEB-2024-FL-2
Master the Art of the Complete Dental Examination

Develop the ability to perform a thorough TMJ/Occlusal evaluation with confidence. Core 2 teaches you a step-by-step approach to identifying instability in the TM joints, muscles, and teeth, ensuring a solid foundation for every treatment plan.

Dawson-Academy-Core-2-FEB-2024-FL-25
Capture Precise, Verifiable Records Every Time

Learn the critical techniques for bilateral manipulation, accurate centric relation bite records, and the proper use of a Lucia jig. Mastering these skills will elevate your diagnostic precision and ensure reliable, predictable treatment outcomes.

Dawson-Academy-Core-2-FEB-2024-FL-95
Transform Patient Conversations with the Co-Diagnostic Process

Gain expertise in guiding patients through a structured examination using future-focused questions. This approach fosters trust, improves case acceptance, and positions you as a leader in complete dentistry.

Questions about this course?

Receive personalized guidance from a Dawson Advisor

MASTER THE RECORDS TAKING PROCESS
Here's what you'll learn in three days
DAY 1
  • Gain additional insights into the Stomatognathic System
  • Learn the 21 diagnostic photo series
  • Practice how to properly take high quality photos for treatment planning
  • Understand Facebow technique and how to mount them accurately on the articulator
  • Practice all the steps of a Complete Examination
DAY 2
  • Refine the ability to use bi-manual manipulation
  • Learn the correct technique to make a segmental anterior deprogrammer
  • Learn to take correct CR bite records
  • Understand the verification CR process using a centri-check
DAY 3
  • Continue taking CR bite records
  • Understand how to program an articulator and what they do
  • Implementing changes into your practice

What Core 2 Students Are Saying

s-blob-v1-IMAGE-p4hMY194Xzg
Jason R. Hall, DDS
Learning the material is critically important. My young associate, a relatively new dentist, was able to grasp it quickly thanks to the passionate and engaging instructors. This program has been an excellent review of the systems I’ve relied on for many years, confirming the correct approaches to restoration.
s-blob-v1-IMAGE-WkGilXuZyOA
Vatsala Jajoo, DMD
I enjoyed this Core 2 course very much. The material was very well presented and easy to understand, it helped me see occlusion a very different light.
s-blob-v1-IMAGE-uZm0VNL_iCc
Jiss Kuruvilla, DDS
This course really emphasized why a full exam is so important in everyday dentistry. It feels like I’m getting closer to being a complete care dentist, and I’ve gained a much better understanding of how to properly take CR and recognize joint and muscle issues.
s-blob-v1-IMAGE-YyocwhTcXoI
Jiss Kuruvilla, DMD
It’s like the movie “The Matrix” - it will open up your mind and you will never be able to go back once you take this course.
Frequently Asked Questions

Understanding Your Path to Complete Dentistry

Yes, the Core Curriculum is designed as a progressive learning experience. Each course builds on the previous one, so Core 1 is required before moving to Core 2.

Yes! You can take each Core course at any of our locations to fit your schedule and travel needs.

Yes, Core 2 is highly interactive. For example, you’ll practice Bimanual Manipulation to assess the TMJ, take a Centric Relation bite record using a Lucia Jig, and learn to use articulators for precise diagnostic and restorative planning.

Absolutely! We offer interest-free payment plans. Learn more here.

No, students are responsible for securing their own accommodations. However, upon registration, we do provide a list of hotel recommendations.

Core 2 focuses on the critical steps for thorough diagnosis and treatment planning. You’ll learn how to perform a comprehensive TMJ and occlusal evaluation, identify signs of instability in the masticatory system, and engage patients in the co-diagnostic process. The course also covers proper record-taking techniques, including face-bow transfers, centric relation records, and diagnostic photography — ensuring accuracy in both diagnosis and restorative planning.

The Dawson Academy is a postgraduate educational and clinical research facility offering advanced dental continuing education. Our Core Curriculum focuses on the principles of Complete Dentistry, empowering dental professionals to predictably diagnose and treat complex cases.

Complete Dentistry is a philosophy that focuses on treating patients comprehensively, addressing functional, aesthetic, and structural issues for long-lasting results. The Core Curriculum teaches you how to apply this approach systematically.

Dawson’s Core Curriculum is made up of seven foundational courses designed to help you master Complete Dentistry. You can choose individual courses across various locations or opt for our Mini-Residency Program, which bundles these courses into a fast-tracked pathway to graduation. We also offer specialized tracks for lab technicians. Whatever your path, everyone begins with Core 1: Occlusion & Smile Design.

The curriculum includes lectures, hands-on workshops, case discussions, and patient demonstrations. Each course builds on the last, creating a comprehensive learning experience. 

Dental professionals who have completed the Core Curriculum report the ability to:

  • Deliver predictable results.
  • Reduce stress from complicated cases.
  • Increase patient satisfaction and loyalty.
  • Build a more profitable and fulfilling practice.

Our faculty includes industry-leading dentists and experts who practice the principles of Complete Dentistry in their own successful practices. They bring real-world experience and a passion for sharing their knowledge to every course.

Dentists, specialists, and lab technicians who want to refine their clinical skills, improve patient care, and increase the profitability of their practice will benefit most from the Core Curriculum.

The time required depends on the individual’s preference and schedule. Courses can be taken one at a time at your own pace or completed in just over a year with our Mini-Residency Program,  a fast track to mastering Complete Dentistry.

Absolutely! Our Team 360 Elective ensures that your entire team understands their role in supporting Complete Dentistry. We also offer a specialized course for dental assistants to provide them with the tools to effectively support your practice’s goals. 

No specific prerequisites are required, but it is ideal for dental professionals seeking to expand their diagnostic and treatment planning capabilities.

Yes, electives are open to both graduates of the Core Curriculum and those who wish to take individual elective courses without completing the full program. Clinical electives cover topics from dentures to breathing disorders, while business courses, such as the Dental MBA in a Day, provide practical strategies to grow your practice. Explore electives here.

Yes! Our Complete Care Consulting program offers a personalized, hands-on approach to mastering practice management. You’ll work with a dedicated coach who will guide you and your entire team to business and clinical success.

Yes, graduates can always take additional electives, explore our online courses, or join a Study Club to continue learning, earning CE credits, and exchanging ideas with other alumni.

Graduates of our Core Curriculum can also purchase a Dawson Scholars Association Membership to join a supportive community of like-minded professionals.

Select Your Location

Enroll Today
May. 15-17, 2025
Denver, CO
$6,595.00
Jun. 05-07, 2025
Carrollton, TX
$6,395.00
Jul. 24-26, 2025
East Hanover, NJ
$6,395.00
Aug. 21-23, 2025
St. Petersburg, FL
$6,395.00
Nov. 13-15, 2025
Tarzana, CA
$6,395.00
Event Price
Event Location
Event Capacity
Event Date Range

Invest in Your Future with Easy Course Financing

Take the next step towards mastering occlusion and smile design — without the stress of upfront costs.  Explore our financing and secure your spot in Core 1 today.

Cancellation Policy:

For registrations paid in full at time of registering, requests to cancel or transfer registration in a Dawson Academy course, lecture, or event will be accommodated until 90 DAYS PRIOR to start date. Upon request a refund will be provided minus a $200.00 non-refundable deposit, or a one-time course, lecture, or event transfer, which remains valid for 12 months. Less than 90 days prior to course, no refunds or transfers will be issued.
 
*Students who finance tuition through the Lending Club financing program are subject to special terms and conditions.

Please contact The Dawson Academy at 1.800.952.2178 for full details.

The Dawson Academy 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. The Dawson Academy designates this activity for 20 credit hours continuing education credits.

Scholar Study Club

For Dawson Scholars Graduates

The Dawson Academy 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.

Concerns or complaints about a CE provider may be directed to the provider or to the Commission for Continuing Education Provider Recognition at ADA.org/CERP.

Request More info

Pick your location