Adj. Associate Professor James Brichko

BDSc (Hons), DCD (Endo), MRACDS (Endo)

Adj. A/Prof James Brichko obtained his Bachelor of Dental Science with Honours from the University of Melbourne. He practiced general dentistry in private dental practice in Ballarat for several years before returning to Melbourne to complete his Doctor of Clinical Dentistry in Endodontics. James maintains private specialist clinical practice in Dandenong, and also holds an academic appointment at LaTrobe University. He is a member of the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons, a committee member for the Australian Society of Endodontology, and was previously the Treasurer of the Asian Pacific Endodontic Confederation.

Dr Francis Chan

BDSc (Hons), DCD (Endo), FRACDS (GDP)

Dr Francis Chan completed his Bachelor of Dental Science with Honours at the University of Melbourne in 2013. During his undergraduate studies, he was awarded the Royal Australian College of Dental Surgeons (RACDS) Prize for achieving the highest aggregate clinical marks. He went on to pass the RACDS Primary Examination, earning the highest mark in Microbiology, and later attained Fellowship with the RACDS in General Dental Practice. Francis further pursued his passion for endodontics, completing a Doctor of Clinical Dentistry (Endodontics) at the University of Melbourne. He is a registered endodontist and maintains a full-time role in private practice. In addition to his clinical work, Francis has previously contributed to dental education as the Endodontics Component Co-Convenor for the Doctor of Dental Surgery program at the University of Melbourne. He is actively involved in professional organisations, currently serving as Secretary and Treasurer of the Australian Endodontic Society (Victorian Branch), and Treasurer of the Asian Pacific Endodontic Confederation.

Lecture Synopsis 

Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) has reshaped diagnostic and treatment planning strategies in endodontics—but how do we decide when to use it, and when not to? Adjunct A/Prof James Brichko and Dr Francis Chan will explore the practical and ethical dimensions of CBCT imaging. The session covers acquisition protocols and pitfalls in image interpretation. Cases will be shown to illustrate where CBCT adds value to diagnosis, planning and prognostication. This lecture is recommended for clinicians wanting to integrate CBCT into their endodontic workflows while balancing patient safety, evidence-based decision-making, and diagnostic excellence.

Recommended Reading:

Chan, F., Brown, L. F., & Parashos, P. (2023). CBCT in contemporary endodontics. Australian Dental Journal, 68, S39-S55.