MidWinter Convention & Expo

Thursday, February 8, 2024

7:30am–9:30am • 2 CEU, Core
Managing the Spectrum of Autism Care
Jamie Collins, RDH-EA, BS
Treating patients on the Autism Spectrum presents a multitude of challenges from behavior and cooperation concerns to related health concerns, not to mention the oral considerations associated with medications. As a practicing hygienist and mother of an Autistic child, the speaker has learned methods to ease the anxiety associated with dental appointments for many patients in addition to common oral conditions that may affect individuals with special needs.
Learning objectives:

• Review the Autism Spectrum symptoms, commonly related disorders, and common medications used to treat symptoms of the disorder and oral implications
• Introduce alternative methods to treat patients with special needs in the dental office
• Discuss recommendation options that may be instrumental for improved home care

7:30am–9:30am • 2 CEU, Core
California Dental Practice Act & Ethics – Where’s the Line and Why?
Nancy Dewhirst (Sponsored by Q-Optics)
This course reviews and updates the required DPA topics, regulations and ethics, including scope of practice, drug prescribing, licensure and qualifications, supervision of auxiliaries, professional conduct, mandated reporting, and consent; codes and principles of ethics are reviewed. Examples of law violations, unprofessional conduct and difficult legal challenges will be discussed.
Learning objectives:

• Review the scope of regulations addressed in the DPA
• Relate Dental Codes of Ethics to professional standards and rules
• Discuss how those regulations define dental practice limits
• Understand how the California Dental Board enforces the DPA
• Learn how to locate information and resources related to the DPA

7:30am–9:30am • 2 CEU, Core
Essentials for Success in Fixed & Removable Prosthetics: What Works? What Does Not?
Michael Kulwiec, CDT
This presentation will address successful, proven clinical techniques and material choices based on published studies and clinician surveys. See why failures occur and how to avoid them. Learn digital technology applications that streamline treatment from the initial appointment to delivery.
Learning objectives:

• Fixed Restorations: See the crucial clinical techniques and material applications proven for both chairside success and long-term restoration viability
• Removable Prosthetics: Gain insight into successful prosthodontic techniques and material choices and learn the ideal applications of various types of Complete Denture and Removable Partial Denture materials
• Gain clinical technique and material science knowledge

8:00am–9:30am • 1.5 CEU, Core
Hackers, HIPAA and Headaches
Dennis Krohn, Jr., Partner; SD Reliance and Travis Watson, Compliance Consultant; Abyde (SDDS Vendor Members)
Dentists are confronted with growing difficulties in safeguarding patient information in today’s digital era. To protect patients’ sensitive data, compliance with HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) is of utmost importance. The significance of cybersecurity cannot be overstated in this context, given the susceptibility of dental practices to cyberattacks and data breaches. Dentists must make it a priority to establish robust cybersecurity measures including firewalls, encryption, regular software updates, employee training and more – all in order to mitigate potential risks.
Learning objectives:

• Learn how to be HIPAA compliant and place a strong emphasis on cybersecurity and data breaches

8:00am–9:30am • 1.5 CEU, Core
From Our Side Of The Chair®– Part 1
Shannon Pace Brinker, CDA
With the myriad of esthetic dental materials and techniques available today, dental assistants need to be more familiar with all aspects of clinical practice. Understanding treatment goals and unique treatment considerations is essential to obtaining the desired outcome. Both contribute before, during and after the treatment delivery to foreseeing potential complications and making the process predictable. This interactive lecture gives the team valuable perspectives from both sides of the chair.
Learning objectives:

• Understand the necessary skills to shoot essential photographs for quick co-diagnosis and pre-treatment, treatment and post-treatment clinical angles required for documentation and lab communication purposes
• Learn and explain basic concepts in Chairside Assisting Skills
• Gain knowledge of new dental equipment and materials released for efficiency

8:00am–9:30pm • 1.5 CEU, 20%
The Many Hats of an Office Manager
Gayle Suarez, President; Dental Management Solutions
All eyes are on you! All eyes are on them! This course is designed to help enhance knowledge, confidence and the skills required of the gatekeeper role to proudly be the office manager with whom everyone wants to work.
Learning objectives:

• Identify the wide range of duties that encompass the co-leader role, broaden the role, and streamline a stress-less operation
• Learn strategies and skills for improved efficiency, communication, accountability, organization, teamwork, productivity, and overall practice success

8:00am–9:30pm • 1.5 CEU, Core
Oral Complications of Cancer Therapy
Alessandro Villa, DDS, PhD, MPH
Oral complications of cancer therapy are common. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of both early and late oral complications associated with treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Topics covered include appropriate interventions, supportive care measures, and the latest advancements in managing oral toxicities resulting from cancer therapy.
Learning objectives:

• Recognize early and late oral complications resulting from cancer therapy, including chemotherapy and radiation treatment
• Describe the current management strategies for addressing oral complications that arise as a consequence of cancer treatment
• Explain the current management strategies employed for patients experiencing oral toxicities as a result of cancer therapy, including appropriate interventions and supportive care measures

10:00am–11:30am • 1.5 CEU, 20%
Every Action Counts for Enhanced Teamwork
Gayle Suarez, President; Dental Management Solutions
Details matter! Every day, every patient, every time! This course will provide the opportunity for teams to commit to consistency, ensuring less stress and more emotional comfort for everyone.
Learning objectives:

• Discover what is most overlooked that makes all the difference in daily operations
• Learn solutions and strategies to benefit doctors, teams and patients

10:00am–11:30am • 1.5 CEU, Core
Oral Mucosal Lesions for the General Practice
Alessandro Villa, DDS, PhD, MPH
This course provides a comprehensive understanding of common oral mucosal lesions and the role dental providers play in their recognition, diagnosis and management. Participants will become familiar with the clinical presentations of the most common oral mucosal conditions and will gain insights into the principles of management and various treatment options available.
Learning objectives:

• Become familiar with the clinical presentation of the most prevalent oral mucosal conditions
• Recognize the importance of dental providers in identifying oral mucosal lesions
• Understand the principles of management and treatment options for common oral mucosal conditions

10:00am–12:00pm • 2 CEU, Core
Vaping: A Viable Alternative or Danger in the Air?
Jamie Collins, RDH-EA, BS
The popularity of vaping among all ages is on the rise, often with unregulated products. The market is catering to the younger generation creating users at an epidemic rate, marketing appealing and concealing devices and flavors. Few studies and long-term effects are widely unknown; education and screening patients is a key element in any dental practice.
Learning objectives:

• Review the effects on the body of vaping and common ingredients of vaping devices
• Introduce conditions and risk that can be associated with vaping devices
• Learn the dangers and impacts on the oral and systemic health conditions
• Discuss recommendation options that may be utilized to discuss dangers with patients and alternatives

10:00am–12:00pm • 2 CEU, Core
Investigating Cyber and the New Frontier in Dentistry AI
Ann-Marie DePalma, CDA, RDH, MEd, FADIA, FAADH, FADHA (Sponsored by Henry Schein One)
This two-part program will investigate the importance of understanding cyber-security to protect patients and practices and then review opportunities for artificial intelligence in dentistry for all team members. With cyber-attacks on the rise, this part of the program will focus on what you can do to protect your patients and practice. In part two of the presentation, the history of artificial intelligence and various uses within dentistry will be reviewed, and how it can improve overall practice production and profitability while improving patient care.
Learning objectives:

• Review basic HIPAA requirements for electronic dental records
• Discuss cybersecurity, ransomware and phishing
• Review the history of artificial intelligence
• Discuss the basic concepts of AI and examine the use of AI in dentistry

10:00am–12:00pm • 2 CEU, Core
Right Under Our Noses…And Evolving Before Our Eyes, Emerging & Re-emerging Diseases
Nancy Dewhirst, RDH, BS (Sponsored by Q-Optics)
Explore the personal health issues of new and altered diseases that challenge us now and in the future: resistant pathogens, biofilm diseases, and pathogens with pandemic potential. Find weak links in dental safety techniques and compare options to prepare, manage and respond to exposures.
Learning objectives:

• Be able to identify and explain current trends in infectious diseases
• Be informed of and prepared for safety challenges
• Apply infection control and safety strategies to usual and unusual disease risks

10:00am–12:00pm • 2 CEU, Core
From Our Side Of The Chair®– Part 2
Shannon Pace Brinker, CDA
As a continuation from the morning “From Our Side Of The Chair” lecture, this course will continue the discussion on advancing chairside assisting skills.
Learning objectives:

• Refresh the optimal chairside assisting skillset by understanding new isolation products, techniques and materials available to increase efficiency

10:00am–12:00pm • 2 CEU, Core
Ultimate Veneers
Todd Snyder, DDS, FAACD, FIADFE, ASDA, ABAD (Sponsored by Bisco, Sponsored in part by Ultradent)
The ability to place believable porcelain veneers is crucial to a good cosmetic dental program. The numerous dental products and myriad of materials that are currently available to dentists can yield some incredible results but can be overwhelming and/or confusing. Without a blueprint and instructions to show the process from start to finish and all the steps in between, it can be quite challenging for many. This presentation will discuss all of the steps necessary to fabricate amazing, life-like veneers and when to utilize them.
Learning objectives:

• Learn veneer preparation design and veneer provisional techniques
• Learn veneer try-in and cementation
• Discover legal documentation

1:30pm–4:00pm • 2.5 CEU, Core
High Stakes Dental Safety: Don’t Panic, You’ve Got This! (Infection Control and OSHA)
Nancy Dewhirst, RDH, BS (Sponsored by Q-Optics)
This course meets the DBC’s mandatory Infection Control CE requirement and OSHA yearly training requirement
Review today’s disease transmission risks and dental safety recommendations considering bloodborne, contact and airborne pathogens; get some great safety tips! Standard and transmission-based precautions will be explained in the context of CDC guidelines and OSHA and Dental Board regulations.
Learning objectives:

• Recognize and manage bloodborne, contact, droplet and airborne diseases
• Identify best practices to protect workers and patients
• Make sense of evolving rules and recommendations for changing infection risks

1:30pm–4:00pm • 2.5 CEU, Core
The Art of Exquisite Anterior, Posterior, Single, and Multiple Unit Provisionals
Shannon Pace Brinker, CDA (Sponsored in part by GC America)
The role of dental restorations used for provisional and indirect restorative procedures has changed dramatically. These restorations are no longer regarded as temporary restorations but rather as provisional restorations with distinct functions and purposes. Provisional restorations have become a vital diagnostic and assessment tool to evaluate function color, shape, contour, occlusion, periodontal response, implant healing and overall esthetics. An accurate fit and margination are essential to ensure and maintain pulpal health. With increased demands being placed on provisional restorations, new materials and techniques are being developed and some existing protocols are being refined to accomplish desired goals.
Learning objectives:

• Learn how to perfect your radiology techniques to open contacts and prevent the overlap of digital images
• Understand how to take the best PVS impressions to aid in provisional trimming
• Gain knowledge for the best Unparalleled tissue management that starts with rapid, profound Hemostasis

1:30pm–4:00pm • 2.5 CEU, Core
Smart Practices for Your Practice
Todd Snyder, DDS, FAACD, FIADFE, ASDA, ABAD (Sponsored by Bisco, Sponsored in part by Ultradent)
The individual practice of dentistry is in transition now more than ever. Delivering exceptional care requires the entire team to share the same philosophy and commitment to individual dental care, procedures and techniques, obtaining more new patients and improving one’s revenue. This program discusses modern systems, mindset, procedures, materials and technologies that help navigate these changing times so that you can offer better dentistry and increase your treatment opportunities.
Learning objectives:

• Learn how to provide the latest in restorative materials and techniques
• Learn how to attract more elective dental procedures that people are willing to pay for
• Learn valuable tips on avoiding complications and post-operative discomfort with direct restorations

1:30pm–4:00pm • 2.5 CEU, 20%
Effective Communication and Patient Retention – It Begins on the Phone!
Gayle Suarez, President; Dental Management Solutions (Sponsored by Weave)
Getting to know patients is #1; there is no second chance to make a first impression. This course will highlight the difference between patient services and patient relations. Spending time on each patient call will create a lasting impression that stands out!
Learning objectives:

• Discover why the telephone is the MOST IMPORTANT tool for developing highly-educated patients
• Learn how to build valuable patient relations that will encourage long-term, quality and loyal patients (to whom you have the privilege to serve) for the ultimate practice success

1:45pm–3:45pm • 2 CEU, Core
Diabetes By The Numbers
Jamie Collins, RDH-EA, BS (Sponsored in part by GC America)
Diabetic patients are 2-3 times more likely to develop periodontal disease than non-diabetics. With 80% of diabetics residing in the middle and lower socioeconomic American society, dental clinicians have the ability to make a difference in the life of these individuals. Learn about the CDT codes implemented to aide dental care workers to identify and help manage the oral systemic link of diabetes.
Learning objectives:

• Identify the types, causes and treatments to provide the best care possible
• Review the types and causes of Diabetes Mellitus
• Discuss link of periodontal disease and diabetes control

1:45pm–3:45pm • 2 CEU, Core
Soft Tissue Growths for General Dentists
Rashidah Wiley, DDS (Sponsored by California Northstate University; SDDS Vendor Member)
A wide range of soft tissue growths can be seen in the oral cavity. Soft tissue lesions can display different types of behavior (benign, intermediate and malignant) and fall into several different disease categories. Dental clinicians need to be able to recognize, describe, manage or refer patients with these types of lesions out for treatment. This course reviews the most common soft tissue growths dental professionals will encounter in practice.
Learning objectives:

• Discuss the clinical appearance of soft tissue pathology in the oral cavity
• Recognize the differences between benign, intermediate and malignant lesions
• Discuss the management/treatment of various pathologic disorders

2:00pm–4:00pm • 2 CEU, 20%
To Contract or Not to Contract? Working with Dental Benefit Contracts
Lisa Greer, Dental Benefits Analyst and Matthew Nelson, Practice Analyst; California Dental Association
There are so many different dental benefits plans on the market; how do you select the right ones? This lecture will focus on the pros and cons of contracting with dental benefits plans in your practice.
Learning objectives:

• Understand how to determine when a dental benefit plan is a right fit for patients and the practice
• Learn how to evaluate and conduct an analysis for each plan (existing or future)
• Learn how to analyze dental benefits contracts that best suit your needs during the transition of a practice

Friday, February 9, 2024

7:30am–9:00am • 1.5 CEU, Core
Show Me the Money: Everything You Don’t Know About Effective Collections
Sara Baker, MBA, CEO & Partner; SD Reliance (SDDS Vendor Member)
A steady cash flow is a vital function of any dental practice. However, the truth is that many practices struggle with maintaining consistent systems for handling delinquent accounts, which can create a real concern for a dentist’s bottom line. This class covers what makes an effective collections plan which can reduce AR and improve cash flow by collecting cash now rather than chasing down balances later. Learn how to streamline your collections process, eliminate AR waste and headaches and consistently collect over 100% of your productions every month. It can be done!
Learning objectives:

• How to properly implement an effective collections process
• How to run, analyze and understand your PMS reports
• Recognize common collection mistakes and learn tips and tricks from an expert in dental collections

7:30am–9:30am • 2 CEU, Core
Medical Emergencies in the Dental Office
Jeffrey Delgadillo, DDS
As healthcare professionals, we must be prepared and confident in our abilities to handle a variety of medical emergencies at any given time. In this lecture, learn the proactive measures to identify and mitigate the most common emergencies. Attendees will gain valuable knowledge in recognizing early warning signs, accurately diagnosing emergent conditions and implementing effective treatment strategies. The goal is to ensure the team is prepared to respond to emergencies in the dental office with competence and composure.
Learning objectives:

• Staff and medical emergency equipment preparation
• Discover diagnosis of the most common medical emergencies
• Learn treatment strategies and implementation

7:30am–9:30am • 2 CEU, Core
Turn Mundane into Magnificent
Theresa Sheppard, RDA; Theresa Sheppard Solutions
Whether you are a new assistant or a seasoned RDA, there are times when fatigue and frustration can take over. Find out ways to reduce predictable failures and fall in love with dentistry again.
Learning objectives:

• Level up your diagnostic skills
• Learn the difference between whether you’re working on the patient or treating the patient
• Discover the difference between your role and your job

8:00am–9:30am • 1.5 CEU, Core
The Biomimetic Approach: From Design to Delivery – Part 1
Mehrdad Razaghy, DDS (Sponsored by GC America and Carestream Dental)
During this two-part lecture, we will learn how to perform our everyday dentistry, from the very first moment we meet a new patient, to treatment-planning, restoring, and maintaining, while appreciating the biomimetic concept. By the end of this lecture, we will have a very clear understanding of the following topics, completing a full circle of the biomimetic philosophy.
Learning objectives:

• Learn biomimetic philosophy and “the check-list”: Most updated protocol for everyday bonding procedures
• Discover advanced possibilities; preventative and additive options with resin
• Fiber re-enforced composite restorations

8:00am–9:30am • 1.5 CEU, Core
Technology Advancements in General Dentistry – Scanning, Milling & Printing
Colby Smith, DDS, MAGD
The advancements in technology available for the general dentist have accelerated over the past few years. Between intraoral scanners, CAD/CAM mills, CBCT, and 3D printing, dentists have so many different technologies to evaluate, and they’re improving all the time! Is it bleeding edge, or standard of care? It can be difficult for a practice owner to decide whether to take the plunge with a new piece of equipment. This course will discuss some of the current technology and workflows related to restorative dentistry to help.
Learning objectives:

• Learn about current dental imaging and manufacturing technologies
• Understand digital workflows for fabricating appliances and prosthetics
• Recognize advantages and applications for different intraoral scanning technology

8:00am–10:00am • 2 CEU, Core
Implant CPR: Failure and Complication
Navneet Arora, DDS, MPH, DABP
During this seminar, learn how to deal with day-to-day implant-related complications in a simple and systematic way.
Learning objectives:

• Identify implant complications
• Determine if they are surgical or restorative
• Learn how to manage complications yourself and when to refer out
• Learn how to avoid implant complications moving forward

8:00am–10:00am • 2 CEU, Core
Implementing CAMBRA as a Team
Gwen Essex, RDH, RDHAP, MS, EdD (Sponsored by California Northstate University: SDDS Vendor Member)
Caries management by risk assessment is not new, and yet it hasn’t reached every practice. This lecture covers the implementation of CAMBRA with a focus on simplifying the process and focuses on the successful implementation of this powerful prevention practice as a team.
Learning objectives:

• Identify the determining factors for moderate, high, and extreme caries risk
• Indicate which of the relevant variables that lead to caries are personally modifiable
• Determine their specific role within their team in successfully implementing CAMBRA

8:30am–9:30am • 1 CEU, Core
Ergonomics: Why is Dentistry Such a Pain in the Neck and Back?
Joel Whiteman, DDS (Sponsored by California Northstate University: SDDS Vendor Member)
Dentistry can be very hard on the body. Whether sitting or standing, those in the dental field will struggle with issues all over the body. We all want to practice for a long time and there needs to be a solution. In this course, we will discuss the how and why of pain in dentistry. This will be followed by how ergonomic principles can be implemented to make a difference.
Learning objectives:

• Learn the causes of the physical issues in the dental profession
• Discover how to mitigate the ergonomic principles that can be mitigated
• Realize how to prevent issues going into the future

9:30am–10:30am • 1 CEU, Core
The Top Dentrix Enhancements Added When You Weren’t Watching (updated course description)
Kara Bean, Solutions Consultant Engineer, RCM; Henry Schein One (Sponsored by Henry Schein: SDDS Vendor Member)
Providing world-class patient care, in and out of the operatory, is a full-time job for your whole team. Who has spare time to read up on software updates? During the past year, you’ve received more than 10 Dentrix updates with useful enhancements that improve your practice workflows and patient care. To help you get the most from them, we’ll review why, when, and how to use them. Attend this course to learn about Dentrix enhancements that can help improve insurance management, patient billing and collections, clinical treatment, and more. When you return to the office, you’ll be a Dentrix hero, bringing home helpful tips for everyone on your team.
Learning objectives:

• Locate new or enhanced features in Dentrix
• Recognize Dentrix enhancements you can use in your practice
• Explain the workflow benefits of your favorite Dentrix enhancements
• Recall where to find information about Dentrix updates

9:45am–12:15pm • 2.5 CEU, Core
All TMJ Patients are NUTS, right? How to Evaluate, Diagnose and Treat the Most Common TMJ Problems
Jamison Spencer, DMD, MS
TMJ disorders are one of those areas where almost every dentist feels uncomfortable. Dr. Spencer will review the relevant anatomy and discuss simple examination, diagnosis, and treatment techniques that will allow you to STUN your next TMD patient with your understanding of the patient’s issues, and allow you to help many more people.
Learning objectives:

• Understand basic principles of focused examination and evaluation for TMD
• Have a straightforward way to diagnose the most common TM disorders
• Understand the treatments for the most common TM disorders

10:00am–11:30am • 1.5 CEU, Core
Improving Outcomes by Improving Access for Patients with Special Needs

Wade Banner, DMD (Sponsored by LIBERTY Dental Plan: SDDS Vendor Member)
An estimated 1.3 million children in California have chronic physical, developmental, or behavioral conditions that may affect their ability to tolerate receiving dental care in a traditional dental office setting. During this session, a panel of experts will provide an in-depth discussion of the barriers to care for those with special health care needs and provide an overview of strategies and opportunities to improve access to care for this population, at the dental office, community, and state level.
Learning objectives:

• Understand root causes for access to care issues for those with special needs
• Learn about in-office and community-based strategies to improve access to care for those with special needs
• Discuss opportunities for expanding care access points for those with special needs

10:00am–12:00pm • 2 CEU, Core
The Biomimetic Approach: From Design to Delivery – Part 2

Mehrdad Razaghy, DDS (Sponsored by GC America and Carestream Dental)
In continuation of the lecture on the Biomimetic Approach, we will continue discussing treatment planning, restoring, and maintaining, while appreciating the biomimetic concept. By the end of this lecture, we will have a very clear understanding of the following topics, completing a full circle of the biomimetic philosophy.
Learning objectives:

• Treatment planning and patient communication utilizing dental photography 
• The biomimetic check-list: all you need to know for your everyday bonding protocol
• Preventative and additive options with resin
• Anterior reconstruction with biology in mind

10:30am–12:00pm • 1.5 CEU, Core
Periodontal Staging and Grading– Why Did They Change it Again?

Gwen Essex, RDH, RDHAP, MS, EdD (Sponsored by California Northstate University: SDDS Vendor Member)
The latest diagnostic guidelines from the American Academy of Periodontology have been available since 2017. Many of us continue to fall back on older classification systems and yet there may be some value in the new system if we could just get our head around it! This course focuses on demystifying staging and grading of periodontal disease.
Learning objectives:

• Explain the significance of staging and grading in periodontal classification
• Relate prior classifications to the new system for continuity
• Explain to a patient the meaning of a periodontal diagnosis that utilizes staging and grading and its relevance to treatment

10:30am–12:30pm • 2 CEU, 20%
Respect, Reciprocity and Responsibility – The Three R’s of Transformative Listening

Brian DesRoches, MHA, MSC, MBA, Ph.D., LMFT
One of the most important experiences we can create for our patients, team members, and loved ones is the feeling that “You matter to me.” In this presentation, learn how to generate that experience in all relationships with the skills of transformative listening.
Learning objectives:

• Learn about the neurobiological process of emotional influence and its relationship to the three Rs of transformative listening
• Apply the neuroscience-based skill that increases positive influence and utilize four basic skills of transformative listening
• Describe and apply the four basic skills of transformative listening

10:30am–12:30pm • 2 CEU, Core
Clinical Endodontic Review: Concepts, Diagnosis, Anesthesia, Access, and Irrigation

Allen Ali Nasseh, DDS, MMSc (Sponsored by Real World Endo and Brasseler USA)
In this highly clinical presentation, a big-picture view of clinical endodontics, its scope and services and the fundamental concepts behind successful clinical practice will be discussed. Dr. Nasseh will emphasize on the first half of a clinical endodontic procedure by uncovering details in the area of diagnosis, case section and treatment planning between RCT or Vital Pulp Therapy and achieving effective endodontic anesthesia for great access and irrigation.
Learning objectives:

• Understand the Endodontic principles for clinical care
• Apply diagnostic terminology and treatment planning based on that diagnosis
• Learn the principles of endodontic access and irrigation after obtaining effective anesthesia for root canal therapy

11:00am–12:00pm • 1 CEU, Core
Oral Health Literacy

David Trent, DDS, MD
This session will focus on the critical importance of communicating with patients to enhance behavior change, improve outcomes, as well as patient understanding and comprehension through oral health literacy. You will learn how to understand and act on oral health information and to communicate effectively with patients. The session will also introduce you to the California Oral Health Literacy Toolkit, a free resource from the Office of Oral Health with tips about patient communication techniques and ways to create a more “patient friendly” dental practice. Special emphasis will be placed on access to language interpreting services.
Learning objectives:

• Describe the importance of oral health literacy in dental practices and how to access the Oral Health Literacy Toolkit
• Identify how the toolkit will help you assess your dental practice and improve patient interactions
• Learn what you can do to improve patient communication, the friendliness of your practice, and access language interpreting services at low cost/no cost

11:00am–12:30pm • 1 CEU, Core
Eaglesoft Made Easy

Ritch McKinney, Software Trainer II; Patterson Dental Supply (Sponsored by Patterson Dental Supply: SDDS Vendor Member)
Dental office software is always changing and keeping on top of the changes, the improvements and the technology is essential. Here’s a chance to ask all of your questions, bring your wish list items and, if you are shopping for a new platform, weigh the options to best fit your practice. Whether you are already a user or looking for a new software, this program will give you a chance to learn all you need to know.
Learning objectives:

• Learn how Eaglesoft – Intellicare will help you with your chart audits so that you don’t need to
• Discover how Smart Notes will take your notes to the next level
• Discover how Smart Doc – Built in PDF Viewer works
• Learn how Money Finder finds hidden money in your practice

1:30pm–2:30pm • 1 CEU, Core
Provisionals made EASY… and FUN (Hands-on Course)

Alex Zamansky, Executive Territory Manager; Dentsply Sirona (Sponsored by Dentsply Sirona)
Did you know the average amount of time it takes to make a temp crown from impression to being fully cemented takes 15-18 minutes? In this course, learn to fabricate a temp crown in about EIGHT MINUTES! This course is very hands-on and is designed to provide an understanding of new technologies and techniques as it relates to the temp crown workflow. Attendees will practice making single crown fabrications and bridge temporizations. An overview of new materials and techniques will be examined.
Learning objectives:

• Discover the benefits, types, techniques and details of fabricating temporary crowns
• Learn current materials and techniques
• Learn how to make an eight-minute temp

1:30pm–3:30pm • 2 CEU, Core
Coding with Confidence: A Discussion About Coding, Billing and Successful Insurance Processes

Sara Baker, MBA, CEO & Partner; SD Reliance (SDDS Vendor Member)
Correct coding and successful claim submission can be complicated and confusing… but it doesn’t have to be! You CAN get reimbursed by insurance carriers in a smooth, timely manner, without having to jump through hoops (or as little jumping as possible)! Learn the best practices for dental billing and coding and break down the process into easy steps: from code selection to posting, submission and follow-up to payments and denials, and everything else that comes up along the way.
Learning objectives:

• Learn coding and billing common mistakes and traps
• Learn how to implement a successful claims process
• Learn if a denial really is a denial

1:30pm–3:30pm • 2 CEU, Core
The 6 Dimensions of Patient Communication

Brian DesRoches, MHA, MSC, MBA, Ph.D., LMFT
From the initial contact to the last moments of an appointment, connecting with patients is essential to providing excellent care and service. This presentation will introduce the six dimensions of patient communication and the skills for optimizing your positive influence to enhance connecting with patients.
Learning objectives:

• Describe the six skills of patient communication and evaluate their priority for your team in communicating with patients
• Learn how to utilize the triad of effective communication to stimulate a patient’s thinking and learning capacities
• Learn why the skill of asking curious questions can generate the emotional experience patients most desire in their relationships with you

1:30pm–3:30pm • 2 CEU, Core
Clinical Endodontic Review: Chemo Mechanical Instrumentation, Obturation and Beyond

Allen Ali Nasseh, DDS, MMSc (Sponsored by Real World Endo and Brasseler USA)
This course will describe the foundation of sage and effective chemo mechanical Instrumentation and irrigation and discuss obturation strategies that are both efficient and time-proven. Restorative aspects of care will also be discussed and presented.
Learning objectives:

• Understand the goals of chemo mechanical instrumentation and various available systems on the market
• Learn clinical strategies for safe and effective Obturation using proven Obturation materials
• Learn post-operative patient management and restoration as well as surgical strategies to manage clinical failures and repairs

1:30pm–3:30pm • 2 CEU, Core
What is Your Team NOT Doing that Puts YOUR Practice at Risk?

Theresa Sheppard, RDA; Theresa Sheppard Solutions
From upsetting a patient to committing a felony, not knowing your compliance obligations can cause unnecessary chaos and, in many cases, cost thousands of dollars or even jailtime for everyone in the practice. Gain the understanding needed to protect the practices’ clinical and financial integrity. Know the compliance obligations, documentation necessities and other “musts” to avoid the handcuffs!
Learning objectives:

• Understand the many layers of compliance
• Discover that healthcare fraud does not have to be intentional to be prosecuted
• Learn how proper diagnostics and documentation will help keep you out of court

1:30pm–4:00pm • 2.5 CEU, Core
Advanced Adhesion, Minimally Invasive Posterior Restorations

Greg Campbell, DDS (Sponsored by Kuraray Noritake Dental)
This course will introduce, demonstrate and practice the advanced adhesion techniques of Immediate Dentin Sealing, Resin Coating and Deep Margin Elevation which have been shown to insulate the pulp, dramatically increase and stabilize dentin bonds and virtually eliminate sensitivity. The proper bonding of ceramic restorations will also be demonstrated and practiced with the latest adhesion technologies and materials. These new simplified procedures can provide predictable and repeatable clinical outcomes. The key research that gives scientific support to these techniques will also be reviewed and discussed throughout the course!
Learning objectives:

• How to perform immediate dentin sealing and resin coating with direct and indirect restorations
• How to bond and seal dentin after RCT to help prevent retreatment (leakage)
• Technique for bonding partial coverage, all ceramic restorations after IDS and Resin Coating

1:30pm–4:00pm • 2.5 CEU, Core
Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Looking Beyond the Teeth and Saving Lives!

Jamison Spencer, DMD, MS
Dentists are uniquely positioned among healthcare providers to easily evaluate for signs of obstructive sleep apnea. Oral appliance therapy performed by a qualified dentist can also be an effective treatment. Dr. Spencer will review the basics of normal sleep, snoring, and obstructive sleep apnea in adults and children. He will cover diagnosis and treatment of obstructive sleep apnea, including the dentist’s role and appliance selection, in addition to reviewing the most popular oral appliances and discussing pros and cons of each.
Learning objectives:

• Understand normal sleep, how to improve sleep and how obstructive sleep apnea affects adults and children
• Become familiar with the dental aspects of screening for OSA
• Understand possible problems and side effects of oral appliance therapy

1:45pm–3:45pm • 2 CEU, Core
Update in Pediatric Dentistry

Ian Marion, DDS
Caries in infancy is sadly a problem still prevalent in society today. Managing caries in infancy is a challenge for the provider, the patient and the parents and is largely an avoidable problem. Identifying and mitigating high-risk patients can make a difference not just in infancy, but throughout an individual’s life.
Learning objectives:

• Review caries prevalence and risk factors in a very young population
• Describe intervention strategies across different levels of provider expertise
• Discuss intervention strategies for infant and young child caries

2:45pm–3:45pm • 1 CEU, Core
Provisionals made EASY… and FUN (Hands-on Course / Repeat Course)

Alex Zamansky, Executive Territory Manager; Dentsply Sirona (Sponsored by Dentsply Sirona)
Did you know the average amount of time it takes to make a temp crown from impression to being fully cemented takes 15-18 minutes? In this course, learn to fabricate a temp crown in about EIGHT MINUTES! This course is very hands-on and is designed to provide an understanding of new technologies and techniques as it relates to the temp crown workflow. Attendees will practice making single crown fabrications and bridge temporizations. An overview of new materials and techniques will be examined.
Learning objectives:

• Discover the benefits, types, techniques and details of fabricating temporary crowns
• Learn current materials and techniques
• Learn how to make an eight-minute temp