Foundations of Biofunctional Dentistry.

Overview

The first session begins by explaining where biofunctional dentistry comes from and why it thinks differently. The history of function in dentistry, the difference between man-made solutions and biological function, and Dr. Melih Şengül's own journey from conventional training to the biofunctional approach form the groundwork of the session.

Tooth morphology, the biological model of mastication and the anatomy of the temporomandibular joint follow. The session concludes with a detailed TMJ and occlusion examination, recording methods, masticatory and postural analysis, and diagnostic processes. Participants leave able to read the system.

Learning objectives

• Understand the philosophy and principles of biofunctional dentistry; examine existing concepts side by side and grasp their differences.
• Grasp the functional and aesthetic importance of tooth morphology in treatment planning.
• Learn the anatomical variations in tooth morphology and apply them to clinical cases.
• Understand the biological structure of the masticatory system and its systemic connections.
• Study the condyle and fossa, the articular disc, synovial structures, ligaments and joint capsule together with their functions.
• Learn to perform TMJ- and occlusion-focused examinations.
• Apply occlusal recording techniques in different cases, including Modjaw, dynamic and static records.
• Carry out detailed masticatory and postural analyses to inform treatment decisions.
• Take accurate patient records using advanced tools, imaging and photography.
• Improve diagnostic processes to minimize common clinical errors.

Program

The session lasts two days; topics are covered in the order below.

1. How it began
   • The history of function in dentistry
   • Man-made solutions
   • Understanding biological function
   • The development of biofunctional dentistry
2. My own experience
   • A journey of transformation in which the dogmas of conventional training, laboratory and clinical practice were broken
3. Tooth morphology
   • Anatomy and structure of the teeth
   • Different tooth types and their functions
   • Variations in tooth morphology
   • Applying morphology knowledge to clinical scenarios
   • The biological model
     • The biological model of the masticatory system
     • The physiology of mastication and its relationship to the body
4. Anatomy of the temporomandibular joint
5. Examination, records and diagnosis
   • Detailed TMJ and occlusion examination
   • Occlusal recording methods in different cases
   • Masticatory analysis
   • Postural analysis
   • Collecting accurate records: Modjaw, dynamic and static records
   • Imaging and photography
   • Diagnostic processes
6. Common mistakes and how to prevent them

Guest speakers will also take part in the sessions; the daily schedule may be extended.

A course day

1. 09:30–10:00Coffee and breakfast
2. 10:00–11:30Lesson
3. 11:30–12:00Coffee break
4. 12:00–14:00Lesson
5. 14:00–15:00Lunch
6. 15:00–17:00Lesson
7. 17:00–17:30Coffee break
8. 17:30–19:00Lesson

Dates and venues

All sessions take place in Istanbul.

• İstanbulcompletedKozyatağı HiltonSeptember 19 – 20, 2026

Instructor

Dr. Melih Şengül

Biofunctional Dentist, Prosthodontist, Dental Technician, Assistant Professor

About Dr. Melih Şengül