The MidWinter Convention & Expo is SDDS’ biggest event of the year! It’s a two-day convention and expo held at the Sacramento Convention Center.
The MidWinter Convention & Expo brings dentists & dental professionals together to:
- Cover all your CE bases with SDDS!
- Enjoy world-renowned speakers on current dental topics and trends
- Attend the Expo to meet vendor representatives on the latest products and services
- Build a bond with office team members
Thank you to all who attended the 2019 MidWinter Event!
Dale Alto, DDS
Dr. Alto is a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon and partner at Capital Oral Surgery in Sacramento California. Born and raised in Michigan, he received his dental degree from the University of Michigan and oral surgery training at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center. Dr. Alto’s clinical practice is focused on 3rd molar surgery, orthognathic surgery, complex dental implant surgery, and optimal post-op pain control. He and his partners are local providers of lectures and workshops for the All-on-4 concept.
Carlos Alvarez, Chief of Enforcement; Dental Board of California
Mr. Alvarez was born and raised in a small city of Maywood, Ca. in Los Angeles County. Mr. Alvarez graduated from Bell High School in the City of Bell, Ca. in 1986 and upon graduating, he enlisted in the U.S. Army where he served for 3 years. Mr. Alvarez has 22 years of law enforcement experience and started my Law Enforcement career as a police dispatcher with the South Gate Police Department, Ca. in 1991. In 1996, he became a Police Officer with the Maywood Police Department, Ca. the very same city he grew up in. Mr. Alvarez worked patrol, traffic enforcement, narcotics and gang enforcement; he worked assignments as a Detective, Field Training Officer and Patrol Sergeant. Mr. Alvarez worked 14 years with the Maywood / Cudahy Police Department.
In 2012, Mr. Alvarez became an Investigator with the Dental Board of California in the Orange County Office, where, he performed investigations of criminal and administrative violations of the Dental Practice Act. Typical investigations included allegations of billing and insurance fraud, drug violations, patient battery and unlawful sexual misconduct with patients. In some cases, he conducted undercover operations to investigate the unlicensed practice of dentistry inside homes, garages and fictitious businesses.
In 2014, Mr. Alvarez was promoted to a Supervising Investigator in the headquarters office of the Dental Board of California in Sacramento, Ca. In 2017, he was promoted to the position of Chief of Enforcement with the Dental Board of California. Mr. Alvarez directs day to day operations and activities to the following units; the Complaint and Compliance Unit, Investigative Analysis Unit, Discipline Coordination Unit and Enforcement Unit. He ensures that the goals, objectives and mission of the Dental Board are being met to protect the Consumers of California.
Jenny Apekian, DDS; Sponsored by Patterson Dental
Dr. Apekian is an established general and cosmetic dentist in private practice in Midtown, Sacramento. With over ten years of experience, she prides herself on her gentle touch and caring approach. As an accomplished artist, Dr. Apekian pays close attention to every brush stroke and detail in her artwork. She takes that same approach to her work and skills as a dentist. Her attention to detail, along with her genuine care for patients, is what really sets her apart.
Dr. Apekian is a strong proponent of utilizing the latest technologies in dentistry to improve the patient experience. She recently built and designed one of the most technologically advanced dental offices, utilizing CAD/CAM technologies, 3D Imaging, state of the art infection control systems, as well as full digital integration.
Committed to staying at the forefront of dentistry, Dr. Apekian participates in regular and ongoing post-doctoral education and training. She is a graduate of the Sacramento Implant Continuum and utilizes the latest technology for guided implantology. Dr. Apekian is a key opinion leader for various DENTSPLY Sirona technologies and also serves as a mentor and trainer for CEREC CAD/CAM technology throughout the Sacramento region. She teaches fellow dentists how to utilize the technology to design and produce complete restorations, surgical guides and appliances for prosthetics, implantology and orthodontics.
Dr. Apekian graduated from University of California, Davis with a degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior. She earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of California, San Francisco, where she graduated top of her class. She is active in the Sacramento District Dental Society, serving as the Legislative Committee Chair, as well as serving on the Continuing Education, Ethics, and Leadership Committees. She has also represented Sacramento at the CDA House of Delegates. Dr. Apekian is an active member of the California Dental Association, American Dental Association, and UCSF Alumni Association.
Dr. Apekian lives in Sacramento, California with her husband, son and daughter. When she is not practicing dentistry, she enjoys painting, spending time with family, and traveling.
Julie Axt, Component Relations Manager; California Dental Association
Ms. Axt works closely with CDA’s component dental society leaders and staff supporting the alignment and implementation of CDA and component strategies. Julie has over 30 years relationship development experience and over 13 years of experience in the dental industry including business operations, managing practice overhead, strategic planning, comprehensive consulting, dental team training and development. Most recently, Julie has served as a practice Advisor for TDSC Practice Management and Operations Manager for a large dental support organization.
Jennifer Berry, MS
Ms. Berry is a Social Worker who evaluates family situations for Child Protective Services after a call is received.
Deborah Blanchard, RDH
Ms. Blanchard is a graduate of Rose State College in Midwest City, Oklahoma. She started her career in general dentistry and followed with three years in a periodontal practice. In 1983, Ms. Blanchard relocated to California where she continued her career in general dentistry. In 2001, while continuing to work in private practice, she went to work with Sacramento County Oral Health Program as a member of the Smile Keepers sealant team. For a number of years she worked with portable equipment and ultimately on the mobile dental truck applying sealants in elementary school settings.
As funding sources changed, Ms. Blanchard continued the work of the Smile Keepers program and performed oral health education, screenings and fluoride varnish applications in preschool settings and at community events. In 2017, Ms. Blanchard left private clinical practice to focus solely on dental public health.
Mari Bradford; California Employers Association
Ms. Bradford is an HR Advisor with the California Employers Association and supports CEA members as well as the hotlines. An experienced HR Generalist, Ms. Bradford has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Organizational Communications from CSU Sacramento and her PHR from the Society for Human Resource Management.
Before joining CEA in 2005, Ms. Bradford held HR Management positions for both small and large companies in the Software and IT industry. An expert on California employment law and compliance matters, she is also a skilled trainer in wage and hour compliance. Ms. Bradford’s excellent communication skills allow her to deliver trainings that are educational as well as entertaining. She is familiar with all of the challenges that managers and owners can face when running a business in California.
Carla Cohn, DMD; Sponsored by Bisco Dental Products & VOCO America, Inc.
Dr. Cohn graduated from the Faculty of Dentistry at the University of Manitoba in 1991. She then went on to complete a postgraduate internship in Children’s Dentistry at Health Science Centre Children’s Hospital. Dr. Cohn entered into private practice after graduation and dedicated most of the first decade to working and raising her three sons. She was alarmed at the rampant tooth decay she encountered in very young children, despite all of the knowledge and education available on preventing tooth decay.
Dr. Cohn wanted to help these children regain their health in a quick and efficient manner and thus began her second decade in practice. Today Dr. Cohn’s private practice, at Kid’s Dental, the focus is on prevention. It is both pro-active and ground breaking. A system that would finally allow dentists to eradicate cavities and treat caries by risk assessment is extremely exciting. As a mother, Dr. Cohn strives to have her own children grow up cavity free. As a dentist, after spending many years repairing and extracting decayed teeth, she looks forward to a future in which we can truly see a decline in cavities.
Change can only occur through education. Dr. Cohn’s goals for the future are to help educate the community, dental professionals and medical professionals on prevention of tooth decay. Her hope is to help to create a new generation of cavity free children, one in which a child has never experienced an injection of local anaesthetic or the dental drill.
Nancy Dewhirst, RDH, BS; California Dental Association
Ms. Dewhirst, RDH, BS, graduated from and taught at the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC, and practiced dental hygiene for 20 years. She is a professor at West Coast University, dental hygiene program. Ms. Dewhirst presents at major meetings across the nation, focusing on infectious diseases, clinical safety, disaster preparedness and instrument sharpening, the California Dental Practice Act, dental risk, oral pathology and ergonomics. She is one of the top 100 national speakers, is on the CDA, ADA and OSAP speakers/consultants bureaus. Ms. Dewhirst is a widely published author of dental journal articles and has contributed to textbooks, professional infection control documents and posters.
Craig Dial; DDI Imaging Center
Mr. Dial earned his license as a Dental Radiographic Technologist in 1981 through UC Berkeley and is currently part owner and chief technologist of Diagnostic Digital Imaging. He works closely with many doctors to continue to improve the standard of maxillofacial imaging available in our community and throughout the world. Mr. Dial has served several years as the president of the American Association of Dental Maxillofacial Radiographic Technicians (AADMRT), and several more as a member of the board. Mr. Dial is internationally known and respected for his imaging expertise, and is often consulted about his technical skills and knowledge about oral radiography.
James Dunn, DDS
Dr. Dunn graduated from Loma Linda University and spent over thirty years teaching full time and maintaining an independent private practice outside the University. During my teaching career Dr. Dunn developed classes in aesthetic and cosmetic dental procedures for dental students and directed study clubs for both students and practicing dentists. In addition to teaching he performed research in both laboratory and clinical evaluations of dental materials, and clinical patient treatments. Dr. Dunn presented my research findings at dental research meetings around the world, and taught continuing education courses in both the United States and many other countries. Dr. Dunn was recognized by the prestigious Chicago Dental Society for my Continuing Education teaching and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry as teacher of the year. He has authored many papers, and developed many techniques in digital photography used in dental practice.
Debra Engelhardt-Nash, Sponsored by Care Credit & Solution Reach
Ms. Engelhardt-Nash is a consultant, speaker, writer and coach. She is founding member of the Academy of Dental Management Consulting – serving her 3rd term as President. She is board member of the American Academy of Dental Practice Administration and serves on the ADA Practice Management Advisory Board.
Ms. Engelhardt-Nash has been recognized by Dentistry Today as a Leader in Continuing Dental Education and Consulting and a recipient of the Gordon Christensen Lecturer Recognition award.
The Foundation for Allied Dental Education (FADE), Sponsored by Greater Sacramento Dental Assistant’s Society & KavoKerr
The Foundation for Allied Dental Education, Inc., (FADE) is a non-profit charitable organization dedicated to the education and professional development of the allied dental team. Established in 2011 as a professional partner to the state dental assisting teachers association, FADE has targeted its focus on the needs of the allied dental community by providing resources and supporting events in new and innovative ways.
In early 2016, the FADE Institute was established to further the education and professional development needs of the dental assisting community. Through community collaboration and commitment to clinical excellence, the FADE Institute provides entry-level programs and certification courses, continuing education to licensees, and post-graduate advanced-level licensure programs such as the RDAEF2 and orthodontic assistant permit. Their new state-of-the-art institute was designed as a dedicated environment for clinical chairside instruction.
The Foundation for Allied Dental Education/the FADE Institute is honored to be a vendor member of the SDDS. Their faculty and staff are proud SDDS Foundation supporters.
For more information and a schedule of courses and events, please visit their website at www.theFADE.org or contact their office at (916) 358-3825 at any time.
Sarah Gargani, Senior Training Partner, California Dental Association
Ms. Gargani is a Senior Training Partner at CDA, working collaboratively with all CDA departments, focusing on professional development and strategic training deployment. She uses her experience in corporate training to identify opportunities to better support CDA staff members. Ms. Gargani has over 14 years of experience in the dental industry, including business operations, practice expansion, integration of specialty services and human resources functions. Most recently she worked as a regional front office trainer for a large dental support organization and as a practice advisor for TDSC Practice Management.
Angela Gibson, MPH
Ms. Gibson is a health educator with the Sacramento County Obesity Prevention Program. She earned her Masters in Public Health in Health Promotion Education and Behavior from the University of South Carolina. Ms. Gibson’s public health experience began with a focus on programs for older adults and their caregivers in South Carolina. Since moving back to California in 2015, she has focused on chronic disease prevention in low-income communities in Sacramento County.
Mitch Goodis, DDS
Dr. Goodis is a general dentist in private practice in El Dorado.
Cindy Hartwell, Practice Support, California Dental Association
Ms. Hartwell specializes in consulting with practices on dental benefit plans, navigating the benefits system and advocating for providers. She brings more than 20 years of experience, including RDA and office manager roles in private practice before working in a large dental benefit organization’s commercial and state government divisions.
Brock Hinton, DDS
Dr. Hinton is a prosthodontist with 30 years of experience in a group specialty practice treating complex dental problems. His practice includes all phases of prosthodontics including full mouth rehabilitation, dental implant reconstruction, cosmetics, TMJ and sleep disorders.
Mike Johnstone, InfoStar
Mr. Johnstone began his career with InfoStar back in 2001 and has grown-up living and experiencing dental marketing making him a valuable wealth of knowledge in all areas of marketing a dental practice on the internet. He built his first dental website when he was just 16 and has never looked back. His thirst for technology and helping dental practices become successful also brought forth the SideKick patient education system and the Showcase, a cloud-based reception-area presentation both of which have been used in dental practices across the country to close cases. He has hands-on experience and helped mature each aspect of online marketing that InfoStar provides today making him more than just someone who can talk-the-talk.
Mr. Johnstone graduated college, majoring in neuropsychology, which helped kick-start InfoStar’s successful methods in advertising and promoting dental practices on the Internet through search and social media. His customer service skills and ability to critically think about the needs of a practice carries through to his team at InfoStar for which he personally works with on a daily basis.
Today in everything that Mike has achieved and in working along-side InfoStar’s founder, Greg Sconce, he is partner at InfoStar and looks forward to helping each practice see the value in successful online marketing in order to grow the practice to its highest potential.
Karen Lemieux, RDH
Ms. Lemieux has been working with the Sacramento County Oral Health Program (Smile Keepers) for 21 years. Her experience also extends as a clinical dental hygienist in private practice for 17 years. Her roles in the County Oral Health Program have been to develop, initiate and manage the school-based dental sealant program and WIC preventive oral health program. In addition, she has provided school-based oral health education, screenings and fluoride in the communities. Currently, she is a part of planning and implementing the strategies of the California Oral Health Plan 2018 – 2028 through Prop. 56 funding, thereby decreasing the burden of oral diseases and promoting healthy oral health practices in Sacramento County. Ms. Lemieux holds an Associate of Science degree in Dental Hygiene.
Kristy Menage-Bernie, RDH, MS, RYT, Sponsored by Parkell, Inc.
Ms. Menage Bernie, RDH, MS, RYT, is the Director of Educational Designs, and celebrated her 30th year in the profession by completing a Master’s of Science degree with honors in 2015 from the University of California, San Francisco, where she is also an Assistant Clinical Professor. Ms. Menage Bernie has been quoted in Esquire Magazine, Women’s Health Magazine, interviewed by ESPN Radio and featured on the cover of RDH Magazine. She has been featured on major dental and dental hygiene conventions and is known for facilitating interactive, fast-paced sessions based on the latest technologies and research.
Joy Millis, CSP; Joy of Communication
Ms. Millis is an expert in the business of implant dentistry, influencing patients to receive quality dental care, getting paid without insurance interference and recovering lost patients! It has been said about her that “Apart from her abundant enthusiasm, what sets Ms. Millis apart from the myriad of other speakers that can talk the talk – Joy has walked the walk!”
With expertise gleaned from more than three decades of hands-on clinical and business results in implant dentistry, Ms. Millis shares powerful tools and how-to’s for dramatic practice refinement.
Ms. Millis has earned the National Speakers Association’s highest designation of Certified Speaking Professional, CSP, and accomplishment achieved by only 600 speakers in the world. She provides practice development services along with content-filled events with participants staying to the end and always wanting more! Ms. Millis is also on the visiting faculty of The Medical College of Georgia and The University of Texas, where she teaches management excellence for implant dentistry providers.
Michael Miyasaki, DDS
Dr. Miyasaki is a general dentist in Sacramento, CA, and has been involved in dental education for over 30 years. He is a Director with the Pacific Aesthetic Continuum which conducts live-patient treatment programs across the United States with an emphasis on comprehensive restorative dentistry done aesthetically. His experience with different occlusal philosophies, aesthetic materials and technology allows him bring a systematic approach to complex situations. His goal is to make it easier for his colleagues to provide quality dental care and be successful in practice with happy patients.
Ross Nash, DDS
Dr. Nash maintains a private practice in Huntersville, North Carolina He graduated from North Carolina State University in engineering and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Dentistry. An international lecturer on dental esthetics, he is one of less that 50 Fellows worldwide and accredited in the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.
He is the co-founder and President of the Nash Institute for Dental Learning; a post graduate training facility.
Ward Noble, DDS, MS; Sponsored by Proctor & Gamble
Dr. Noble graduated from the University of California, San Francisco and then completed a prosthodontic residency program at the University of Michigan. After being in private practice and teaching at UCSF for 35 years, he is now a Professor at the University of Pacific School of Dentistry, where he has received Excellence in Teaching Awards from both the faculty and students. He has presented over 250 presentations and has published numerous book chapters and articles.
Danica Peterson, MPH
Ms. Peterson is a health educator with the Sacramento County Department of Health Services. She first joined the County in 2015 as part of the Sacramento County Obesity Prevention Program (SCOPP) and has since shifted to her current role in the Tobacco Education Program. Danica obtained her Master of Public Health (MPH) degree from California State University, Fullerton where she graduated at the top of her class. She also retains a Bachelor of Arts in Cognitive Psychology from the University of California, Irvine. Aside from her work with the County, Ms. Peterson is also a certified group fitness instructor and teaches dance fitness classes at a local gym. She is honored to share her passions for education, health, and wellness with you today!
Henry Pond, DMD; Sponsored by IBS America
Hank Pond, DMD maintains a full time restorative dental practice including implants, endodontics, and microscopy in Salt Lake City, Utah. Dr. Pond lectures around the country to general dentists and specialists on implantology. Dr. Pond is a graduate of Washington University in St. Louis and has been practicing for 31 years. His engaging lectures include the practical application of knowledge gained over these years. He took his first implant course and placed his initial implants in 1991. Since then, he has mentored for Camlog and is currently a lecturer and clinical advisor for IBS America.
David Roholt, DDS, MICOI; Sponsored by Parkell, Inc.
Dr. Roholt graduated from UCSF School of Dentistry in 1989 and obtained his Masters with ICOI in 2011. In 2017, Dr. Roholt lectured at the International Academy of Dental Research in San Francisco on Bulk Fill, Dual Cure Composites. Dr. Roholt practices dentistry in Auburn, CA, where he and his wife of 27 years live. Dr. Roholt enjoys spending time with his two grown children and traveling in their RV, “Trudy!”
Lisa Saiia
Ms. Saiia is the Founder and Director of dentassist, a placement service for dental professionals from 1982 through 2018. She is the developer and curriculum writer for dentassist.com, an ADA CERP online continuing education website. Ms. Saiia is a captivating Speaker and an OSHA and HIPAA Mandatory Compliance Consultant and Eight Hour Infection Control Trainer. She performs inspiring, scientific based lectures with hilarious real life dental stories.
Francis Tobias, Vice President Human Resources; California Dental Association
Mr. Tobias is the vice president of human resources at CDA. He provides thought leadership to senior management and executives and supports the organization’s staff to deliver exceptional service and results to members.
Michael Wilgus, Director of Sales and Business Development, TDIC
As Head of the sales and business development function for The Dentists Service Company, Mr. Wilgus creates and implements strategies designed to grow and improve the TDSC.com business as a CDA member benefit . He deploys the TDSC experts and resources needed to empower dentists to gain more control of the costs of instruments and supplies, and practice dentistry on their own terms. Mr. Wilgus has spent more than a decade in the dental industry, including owning a dental consulting company. His professional experience includes working as a Regional Development Manager at Align Technology, as well as serving on its leadership council, and working as a Specialty Regional Director for Pacific Dental Services. In addition, Mr. Wilgus has both pharmaceutical and medical device industry expertise and has served on two national advisory panels. He has also worked for Apple, Inc. as a Director of Sales.
Thursday, February 21, 2019
7:30am–9:30am • 2 CEU, CORE
California Dental Practice Act – Conduct, Competence, Culpability & System of Rules & Regulations
Lisa Saiia
How do you conduct yourself? What is your level of competency? Are you opening yourself to culpability? This lecture will share real life situations and outcomes that have occurred in dentistry. We will discuss and emphasize the importance of following the system of rules and regulations required by the Dental Board of California and recent changes.
- Understand the scope of practice, acts of violation and unprofessional conduct
- Know the laws governing prescribing of drugs, citations, suspensions, and mandatory reporting
- Learn how to avoid patient complaints through communication and accountability of failure to follow standard operating procedures and the law
8:00am–9:30am • 1.5 CEU, CORE
The Business of Implant Dentistry
Joy Millis, CSP; Joy of Communication
Implant dentistry can be life-changing, especially since over 35 million Americans have NO teeth, and 178 million are missing at least one tooth. Are you ready to provide this life-changing service? Business and communication skills go hand-in-hand with the clinical skills necessary for providing implant dentistry. Learn how to help patients make the best decisions about treatment by communicating clearly, coordinating care to completion, and preventing misunderstandings while managing risk.
- Learn how to effectively communicate with patients about implants—what implants are, what they do, and how implants may benefit the patient
- Engage every member of the team in understanding how to coordinate treatment to completion for patients, so patients are not confused or lost in the middle of treatment
- Understand the importance of the team’s involvement in managing risk with appropriate documentation and clear communication with patients
8:00am–9:30am • 1.5 CEU, CORE
Botox & the Board
Carlos Alvarez, Chief of Enforcement; Dental Board of CA
Dentists using Botox and fillers for facial cosmetics is illegal in California, unless you have a special license to administer it. Currently only 28 Elective Facial Cosmetic Surgery Permits exist. The Dental Board of California’s (DBC’s) mission is to protect and promote the health and safety of consumers of the State of California. Cosmetic use of Botox and dermal fillers has gained in popularity and the public demand is ever-increasing. But, when a patient becomes dissatisfied with their cosmetic treatment (smile, reshaping of the mouth, etc.) and feels that their dental health is now in jeopardy, they turn to the DBC’s Enforcement program to investigate the dentist’s training, education and special permits to perform elective facial cosmetic surgery. Suspension and/or revocation of the dental license is a possibility. Learn about:
- The DBC’s Enforcement program
- Disciplinary procedures
- Botox and permits
8:00am–9:30am • 1.5 CEU, CORE
Rethink Your Drink
Karen Lemieux, RDH & Neela Satyanarayan, MPH, CHES
The linkage between oral health and chronic disease is trending in public health. Oral health professionals can leverage this momentum by integrating the impact of sugar-sweetened beverage consumption on dental caries, obesity, and other chronic diseases into their patient education messaging. This course reviews the Rethink Your Drink campaign and its connection to influencing beneficial oral health habits.
- Learn about the Rethink Your Drink campaign
- Recognize the impact of shared messaging in promoting positive oral health behaviors
- Understand how to apply Rethink Your Drink messaging in the dental office
8:00am–9:30am • 1.5 CEU, CORE
Prosthodontic Planning – The Key to Simplifying Complex Cases
Brock Hinton, DDS
Want to restore a difficult case? Where do you start? Where should the teeth go? How is the vertical dimension determined? To achieve esthetic and functional success, the end result needs to be clearly established and visualized before implants are placed or a bur hits a tooth. Many tools are available, including denture set ups, diagnostic wax ups, surgical guides and digital dentistry. Complex cases require a collaborative approach where other dental specialties are needed to get the best result. Several complex cases will be presented to show what can be done and the process for getting there. Learn:
- How to establish a vision and sequence a plan to accomplish the vision
- Why you need to be good at denture prosthetics in order to excel with fixed restorative cases
- How to preserve or develop a socket in order to get better implant esthetics
8:00am–9:30am • No CEU
How to Make Your Website “POP”!
Mike Johnstone; Infostar
So you have yourself a website—great!!! But is it converting new patients? This presentation will focus on elements of a website that directly work to convert new patients and maximize effectiveness, website success and productivity. Learn:
- Proper website set-up & feature functionality
- Why ‘mobile-first’ is important
- Popular pages, goal elements & analytical tools
8:00am–9:30am • 1.5 CEU, CORE
Yoganomics: Postural Health & Ergonomic Considerations for the Dental Professional
Kristy Menage Bernie, RDH, MS, RYT
This course overviews the benefits of yoga in postural health and sound ergonomic practices essential in maintaining optimal clinician health. A review of ergonomics will include specific methods to enhance positioning and techniques to prevent repetitive stress related injuries. In addition, yoga research as it relates to postural and total health will be presented as well as the impact of yoga on the various body systems. Participants will also be introduced to the various styles of yoga and have the opportunity to experience poses that can be employed daily in the dental setting.
- Identify ergonomic issues relating to clinical practice
- Incorporate technologies/protocols designed to maximize postural health
- Integrate yoga stretches/poses into the “WHO hand hygiene” protocol
9:45am–12:15pm • 2.5 CEU, CORE
The Periodontic/Orthodontic Connection: Maximizing Success with the Orthodontic Patient
Kristy Menage Bernie, RDH, MS, RYT
Orthodontic therapies are no longer confined to the adolescent population and as such the role of the dental team members in patient education has grown significantly in recent years. This course will include the latest in tooth movement sciences as well as the periodontic/orthodontic connection. Methods to maximize oral health during therapy, including CAMBRA (Caries Management by Risk Assessment) and periodontal considerations, will be included in this interactive, fast paced seminar!
- Understand the role of the dental hygienist in recognizing patients who would benefit from orthodontic therapy
- Review the periodontic/orthodontic connection
- Establish a treatment plan to maximize optimal oral health during orthodontic therapy
9:45am–12:15pm • 2.5 CEU, CORE
Navigating Function & Aesthetic Focused Dentistry
Michael Miyasaki, DDS
Ever see a patient with worn teeth? Ever have a patient having debilitating headaches? A patient who wants optimum dental health? A patient who says there is nothing wrong, but when they open and close their jaws, sounds like they are filled with rocks? This course discusses restorative, aesthetic and functional principles that an be applied in practices.
- See how to apply aesthetic smile design principles to improve function
- Understand how to determine the correct vertical dimension and what is even more important than vertical dimension
- Learn how to prepare, impress, temporize and cement aesthetic materials used to restore one tooth or the entire mouth
10:00am–11:30am • 1.5 CEU, 20%
Lost Patients: Discovered & Recovered
Joy Millis, CSP; Joy of Communication
Are your patients at risk because they did not proceed with recommended necessary care? They are! Plus, did you know that 50% of your active patients don’t have an appointment for anything—not even a prophy? They are at risk and you are at risk. In this session, you will learn how patients are lost, and how to bring them back to receive necessary, recommended care.
- Learn how patients mysteriously disappear, putting them at risk of experiencing clinical loss
- Discover how to find and keep them engaged in receiving necessary treatment
- Understand how apathy can put you and your patients at risk of experiencing additional loss
10:00am–12:00pm • 2 CEU, CORE
OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens – Rules, Regulations & Requirements, Oh My!
Lisa Saiia
Is your dental practice comfortable or fearful of an OSHA inspection? Understanding and following through with annual OSHA mandated compliance is vital to the protection of employees and essential to patient centered care. Stories of situations that turned the practice into chaos and how it could have been avoided will be shared.
- Learn about the “Globally Harmonized System of Classification” and the new labeling elements of chemicals, pictograms, and standard format for SDS
- Check list your general office safety and hazard communication protocols including emergency procedures, reporting, sharps and instrument sterilization and how to avoid cross contamination
- Understand the infectious disease process, emerging bloodborne and airborne diseases and how to protect yourself and your patients
10:00am–12:00pm • 2 CEU, CORE
Tobacco, Oral Health & Your Patient: Incorporating Current Research into Tobacco Cessation
Deborah Blanchard, RDH & Danica Peterson, MPH
Counseling in Dental Offices: The use of tobacco products is widely known to affect oral health and increase risk for disease. Tobacco cessation counseling in the dental office can reinforce the messaging of preventing and/or reducing tobacco use among patients. This course offers up-to-date information on emerging tobacco products and their impact on oral health, as well as simple tips for incorporating tobacco cessation counseling into daily practice.
- Learn about the latest research related to tobacco products and oral health
- Understand motivational interviewing to initiate discussion of tobacco cessation
- Identify methods for implementing tobacco cessation counseling for patients
10:00am–12:00pm • 2 CEU, 20%
Where Saving Dollars Makes Sense – Fine Tuning the Supply Side of Your Practice
Michael Wilgus, TDSC Director of Sales/Business Development
This course is designed to give dental practices a systematic approach to achieving an optimum administrative supply ratio. The methodologies introduced can be translated to all operational areas of a dental practice, including SMART goals, SWOT analysis, and a bottom up approach to strategy development focused on people, processes, and systems.
- Understand and manage your practice operations more effectively, allowing for improved focus and clarity in decision making
- Analyze historical practice data, including fixed and variable expenses
- Identify, outline, and assess practice objectives and goals (SMART)
10:00am–12:30pm • 2.5 CEU, CORE
All-on-4®
Dale Alto, DDS
Restoring the edentulous or terminal dentition patient historically has been challenging due to a number of factors. Multiple surgeries, complex prosthetic protocols, long treatment duration, and high cost have all been perceived challenges associated with these cases. The All-on-4® Treatment Concept offers patients an immediate, fixed, full arch restoration that eliminates these barriers. This lecture will present all aspects of All-on-4® treatment including patient selection, case work-up, surgical/restorative steps, post-op protocol, complications, and implementation into your practice. Success rates and clinical cases will also be reviewed.
- Identify potential patients for treatment
- Understand the surgical/restorative principles and workflow used in these cases
- Confidently implement All-on-4® treatment into your practice
1:30pm–2:30pm • 1 CEU, CORE
Navigating Insurance
Joy Millis, CSP; Joy of Communication
“I can’t do it unless my insurance pays for it!” What can you say when patients are waving their insurance in your face? So many practices are deeply engaged in the insurance world, to the point of insurance telling your patients what to do. Patients need treatment but find themselves stopping at the “max.” Learn how to evaluate insurance involvement, make decisions about participation, and how to communicate with patients about the limitations of coverage.
- Learn to evaluate the insurance cost and benefit for patients compared to fees
- Know how to communicate with patients about their insurance limitations
- Learn what you can do to make informed decisions about insurance participation
1:30pm–2:30pm • 1 CEU, 20%
What You Need to Know About the Hiring Process
Francis J. Tobias, Vice President Human Resources; CDA
With the many changes in employment law one can get easily confused about what you can or can’t do with regards to hiring employees. Are we supposed to do background checks? Are there questions we can’t ask? What about wages? These questions and many more can limit your practice’s greatest resource, the ability to attract and retain really awesome people. Course Objectives:
- Learn best practice knowledge to avoid common hiring mistakes
- Gain confidence in your hiring process
- Demonstrate the ability to enhance morale in the practice and create consistency with your team by hiring really awesome people
1:30pm–3:00pm • 1.5 CEU, CORE
First Impressions Matter
The Foundation for Allied Dental Education (FADE) Speaker
Experts agree: The key to a successful indirect restoration is “a masterful impression.” Everyone can do an impression, but not all do it well. What constitutes mastery in impression taking? This hands-on workshop will focus on the difference between a readable impression vs. a distorted one.
- Discover new and emerging materials for success
- Experience key techniques in the use of advanced products
1:30pm–4:00pm • 2.5 CEU, CORE
Dental Wear & Sleep Bruxism – Myths, Misinformation & Management Strategies
Ward Noble, DDS, MS
This two part presentation will discuss dentistry’s hidden enemy, tooth wear, and its increasing incidence and severity. Consumption among adolescents of acidic drinks and use of multiple medications by old adults is resulting in significant tooth surface loss. Knowledge of sleep bruxism has been clouded by various opinions, myths and conflicting concepts of parafunctional behaviors, “awake” bruxism and clenching. Interactions among saliva, erosive tooth wear, sleep apnea and gastric reflux (GERD) will be discussed. This new knowledge will help guide practitioners toward useful and practical management strategies.
- Understand the causes and effects of erosive tooth wear
- Discover management strategies, prevention and restorative treatment for tooth wear
- Understand the causes and effects of sleep bruxism and treatment protocols for various parafunctional habits
1:30pm–4:30pm • 3 CEU, CORE
Meth, ACEs & CPS: The Strange Relationship
Mitch Goodis, DDS & Jennifer Berry, MS
Methamphetamine is everywhere. Unravel the mystery of the allure of Crystal as the physiology, neurology and psychology behind meth use is explained. Everyone knows someone affected by Meth… relatives, kids or friends. Why were they predisposed to drug addiction, how did they start, and why is the relapse rate so high? How do ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences) predict future drug dependence? Health care professionals are mandated reporters: what happens after Child Protective Services is notified and arrives on the scene?
- Understand the physiology, neuropathology, psychology and allure of Crystal Methamphetamine
- Know how CPS evaluates a family to protect a child from abuse, neglect and injury in a family using drugs
1:30pm–4:30pm • 3 CEU, CORE
Top Trending Topics in Dentistry
Kristy Menage Bernie, RDH, MS, RYT
More than ever, consumers are being “educated” through social media, home shopping networks and the press regarding not only the latest and greatest oral health technologies and products, but “news” debunking long standing oral hygiene practices. From DYI ortho to magic solutions that cure tooth decay; apps that connect with power toothbrushes, to whitening in minutes, it seems that there is something for every oral condition that is faster, easier and painless. This session with explore top trending topics that impact clinical practice (is there sufficient research to support daily use of dental floss?!).
- Understand and appreciate the impact of social media on patients’ dental “IQ”
- Develop strategies to educate patients about trending topics and associated research or lack thereof
- Implement an action plan to monitor trending topics and be prepared to provide evidence-based responses
1:30pm–4:30pm • 3 CEU, CORE
Dental Photography: From Snapshot to Glamour Shot
James Dunn, DDS
It is a visual world! Dentistry is forced to use photos for records and communication. The quality of our photos many times affects the perceived quality of our practices. Quality photos give clear diagnostic and clinical records that allows the Dentist to visually share and communicate with patients and dental referrals. This course will demonstrate:
- The characteristics of digital photos from simple shapshots to professional photographic quality
- Equipment suggestions for each specific photo quality and use
3:00pm–4:30pm • 1.5 CEU, 20%
Heroes – Rescue Your Patients & Your Practice
Joy Millis, CSP; Joy of Communication
Dental professionals are doing amazing things in practices—saving lives, saving practices, and creatively communicating with patients by helping patients receive life-changing care. Hear examples of incredible, yet simple, things you can do to come to the rescue for your patients and your practice.
- Learn how to be the hero for your patients and your practice
- Understand how creativity and uniqueness can benefit your patients
- Learn how to do what others are not willing to do to benefit your patients in a life-changing way
3:00pm–4:30pm • 1.5 CEU, 20%
I Just Want To Practice Dentistry! Defining Leadership In Your Dental Practice
Julie Axt, Component Relations Manager; CDA and Sarah Gargani, Sr. Training Partner; CDA
You went to school to practice dentistry but now you spend your time “managing.” Influence office culture, define your practice vision, and articulate expectations so you can get back to what you love doing! This course, for dentists as well as staff, will discuss:
- Understanding the components needed to establish cohesive teams and effective leadership structures
- Team involvement in practice mission, vision and office rules of engagement and expectations
- Creating a culture of accountability fueled by trust and respect
3:00pm–5:00pm • 2 CEU, CORE
Infection Control – The Latest Info for Patient Protection
Lisa Saiia
Dental healthcare personnel are exposed to a variety of infectious diseases during the course of a typical work day. Proper infection control protocols can minimize or eliminate risk. This lecture presents the newest information concerning airborne and bloodborne transmissible disease, optimum standard operating procedures, patient protection, as well as new data from CDC.
- Learn proper sterilization and disinfection process, purging and flushing water lines and devices, and written protocol development
- Hear attention grabbing stories of situations gone amiss
3:30pm–4:30pm • 1 CEU, CORE
Relevant or Relic? The RDA Dilemma
The Foundation for Allied Dental Education (FADE) Speaker
The role of the RDA in contemporary dentistry is quickly becoming irrelevant. With dentists recognizing that they need to “up their game,” so too does the clinical workforce. This conversation will include:
- Pathways to advanced licensure
- Successful utilization for maximum productivity
- What the future holds for licensed chairside assistants
Friday, February 22, 2019
7:30am–9:30am • 2 CEU, CORE
Infection Control in Your Hands…or Is It “on” Your Hands?
Nancy Dewhirst, RDH, BS
What is the newest information regarding diseases relevant in the dental setting? What are the best ways to protect the dental staff as well as the patient? The current CDC Guidelines and state regulations for infection control will serve as the basis of this presentation, with a look at realistic strategies to meet those recommendations.
- Learn approaches to selecting and using the most effective products
- Discuss how best to screen patients for aerosol transmitted diseases (ATDs), as required by Cal/OSHA
- Update your dental waterline program
8:00am–9:30am • 1.5 CEU, CORE
The Art of CBCT
Craig Dial; DDI Imaging Center
Acquiring excellent CBCT data for accurate diagnosis is always important, but when the DICOM is used in modeling, planning, and surgical guides, it is imperative that precise scanning techniques is applied to achieve the best results. One must be proficient in diagnostic scanning, appreciate and comprehend the science, technology, capabilities, and limitations of CBCT scanners.
- Discuss the skills and tools needed to keep CBCT machines tuned for optimum capability
- Know the proper scan protocols and the radiographic need of the clinical question that is being asked of the exam
- Take this class if you own, operate or are interested in purchasing a CBCT
8:00am–9:30am • 1.5 CEU, CORE
Mandatory Harassment Prevention-The New Law for 2019
Mari Bradford; California Employers Association
Effective January 1, 2019. California businesses with 5 or more employees MUST provide harassment prevention training every 2 years (SB1343). Employees are required to have 1 hour of training. Supervisors are required to have 2 hours of training. The DFEH states that both managerial and non-managerial employees need to be trained in 2019 and employees who were trained in 2018 or before must be retrained.
In the past, only California employers with 50 or more employees were required to provide sexual harassment prevention training—and only to supervisors. Part-time, temporary, and seasonal employees, plus independent contractors count toward the minimum employee count of 5 employees.Training must occur within 6 months of the employee starting the position (and every 2 years thereafter).
In an interactive format, this presentation will discuss:
- all forms of sexual harassment (verbal, visual, and physical) -other types of prohibited harassment
- discrimination, retaliation and abusive conduct
8:00am–9:30am • 1.5 CEU, 20%
How Healthy is Your Recall?
Debra Engelhardt-Nash
Increased customer loyalty is an important drive of long-term success and retaining patients is not only less expensive, but existing loyal patients accept treatment more readily. They generate positive word of mouth and referrals and are less likely to defect for “discounts.” In fact, retaining 5% more of existing patients can boost practice as much as 95%.
- Determine your true recall return rate
- Conduct a Recall “Renewal” Exam using specific tools for the best patient visit
- Learn how to Increase Treatment Acceptance from existing patients
8:00am–9:30am • 1.5 CEU, CORE
Fabricating Esthetic Anterior CAD/CAM Restorations
Jenny Apekian, DDS
Understand morphology and discuss tips to produce esthetic anterior restorations using CAD/CAM technology. Discuss factors, including material, shade, and bonding technique, that contribute to the final esthetic result.
- Understand principles of anterior restorations with CAD/CAM technology
- Select proper materials and bonding methods to produce consistent and esthetic final anterior restorations
- Complete basic and intermediate same day single anterior restorations
8:00am–9:30am • 1.5 CEU, CORE
Practical Proven Prevention for Your Pediatric Patients
Carla Cohn, DMD
Early childhood caries is the most common disease of childhood yet it is one that is entirely preventable. For too long dentistry has been a drill and fill profession that has focused on the symptoms of this disease and not the aetiology. By incorporating a preventative model in your practice you can truly help and dramatically lower the caries risk profile for your young patients. This course will provide you with everything you need to know about risk assessments, including a “tool box” of preventative strategies to help keep your patients cavity free.
- Identify risk factors and prescribe suitable preventive therapies
- Discover a tool box of preventive strategies!
9:45am–11:45am • 2 CEU, CORE
Ergonomics & Personal Health Concerns
Nancy Dewhirst, RDH, BS
Ergo is a hot topic for dental professionals—and everyone, actually! Repetitive motion, awkward positions, and forceful traumatic movements may add up to lost careers. This course will explore:
- Risks, helpful hints and many alternatives
- Interactive personal assessment and practice of stretches and positioning for strength and flexibility
9:45am–11:45am • 2 CEU, CORE
Botox & the Board
Carlos Alvarez, Chief of Enforcement
This course is a repeat from Thursday at 8:00–9:30am.
9:45am–12:15pm • 2.5 CEU, 20%
You Had Me at Hello: Powerful Patient Experience & Telephone Skills to Facilitate Your Brilliance
Debra Engelhardt-Nash
Experts say when people call your office, they have already made their decision to become a patient. Their experience on the telephone will validate their choice or nullify it – based on their encounter. What seems like a basic skill for the dental office is a critical piece in creating a practice profile, establishing credibility and gaining patients’ trust and acceptance. The first phone call presents opportunities to do more than inform patients of office “policies”—it is time to inspire them about your office and look forward to your care.
- Establish the proper introduction of office protocols
- The telephone shopper—when and how to discuss fees and insurance
10:00am–11:30am • 1.5 CEU, CORE
HIPAA – Ensuring Patient Privacy & Safety
Lisa Saiia
This lecture provides the required review and training on the standards regulated by the Federal government to ensure the privacy and security of patient health information, data breach notifications, written policies and procedures, safeguards for security and access to patients who request health records and more.
- Learn about HIPAA’s privacy rules, administrative, technical, physical safeguards and security rules
- Understand what needs to be in the HIPAA Privacy & Policy Procedure Manual and the importance of conducting and documenting a Risk Analysis annually
- Know your patients’ rights, data breach notification requirements, proper record retention and disposal and HITECH Act review
10:00am–12:00pm • 2 CEU, CORE
Modern Materials for the CAD-Milled Restoration
The Foundation for Allied Dental Education (FADE) Speaker
Esthetics aside, the relationship between materials used in CAD-milled restorations and adhesion has never been more complex. What constitutes a “good marriage” and long term wear-ability? With diverse and unique options available, this discussion will offer an overview of modern products and:
- The latest bonding and cementation materials
- Understanding the clinician’s role in identifying the best choices
10:00am–12:00pm • 2 CEU, CORE
Conservative Esthetics for the General Practitioner
Ross Nash, DDS
This course will discuss direct composite dentistry for restorative and elective purposes. Clinical techniques for placing anterior and posterior composites and how direct composite veneers can transform smiles will be demonstrated. A technique for anterior tooth alignment on its own and prior to restorative treatment will be illustrated.
- Learn about posterior composites and anterior composite rehabilitation
- Learn about anterior tooth alignment
10:00am–12:00pm • 2 CEU, CORE
Pediatric Dentistry for the General Practitioner – Keep Your Kids IN Your Practice
Carla Cohn, DMD
This course will present practical points on how to treat your little patients well. Restorative treatment options and their clinical indications will be presented in addition to a variety of dental materials and procedures in anterior and posterior teeth. Learn how your youngest patients will become the best part of your day, You’ve heard it before—treat your kids well and your practice will soar!
- Learn efficient restorative techniques and restorative materials
- Treat anterior and posterior decay aesthetically in the primary dentition
- Managing children… and their parents
1:30pm–2:30pm • 1 CEU, CORE
Tips for Efficient Claims Submission
Cindy Hartwell; CDA Practice Support
How can common errors be avoided when claiming dental services? There are many options—both pro and con—available for claim submission and this course will take a deep dive into the many sections of the ADA claim form as well as how a plan’s contractual obligations can impact claim processing and payments. Learn:
- What a claim is (a legal document) and how to avoid claim processing issues
- How and when to use the many sections of the ADA claim form
- What to do when a claim is denied and the legal right for appeal and dispute
1:30pm–3:30pm • 2 CEU, CORE
California Dental Practice Act
Nancy Dewhirst, RDH, BS
This course satisfies the mandatory requirement for license renewal and highlights any updates and changes to the Dental Practice Act, including scope of practice for dentists and allied personnel, laws pertaining to prescriptions, and violations and enforcement.
- Discuss enforcement and violations citations and fines, including unprofessional conduct
- Explore the changing scope of dentistry
- Leave with a strategy to keep in compliance
1:30pm–3:00pm • 1.5 CEU, CORE
First Impressions Matter
The Foundation for Allied Dental Education (FADE) Speaker
This course is a repeat from Thursday at 1:30pm-3:00pm.
1:30pm–3:30pm • 2 CEU, CORE
Dual Cure Composites: 20 Years of Clinical Success!
David Roholt, DDS
Dual cure, bulk-fill composites have been proven to be a suitable replacement for amalgam fillings. Recent research validates that, when properly bonded, dual cure, bulk-fill composites have much less micro-leakage than ANY light cured composites. They also are less technique sensitive, require fewer steps and provide a more predictable, long lasting posterior restoration. Learn:
- Proper technique for placing these composites
- Why dual cure is superior and why light cured composites fail
- The research, the results and 20 years’ of clinical success
1:30pm–4:00pm • 2.5 CEU, 20%
A Team’s Guide to Patient Care – Attracting, Treating & Retaining Your Patients
Debra Engelhardt-Nash
Create a team that is fully committed in the practice and empowered to create amazing results in patient satisfaction and increased productivity. Discover key systems and office protocols to maximize everyone’s efforts. Learn how to use key performance indicators to strategize team action accordingly. This program is a fun “learning lab” environment that will provide tips and techniques for the entire team.
- Learn what numbers really count and how they direct team activity
- Review customer service monitors and assess your customer service skills
- Discover how to create internal and external awareness of the services you offer
1:30pm–4:00pm • 2.5 CEU, CORE
Indirect Esthetic Restorations for the General Practice
Ross Nash, DDS
In this presentation, the use of indirect esthetic restorations for restorative and elective purposes will be discussed. The use of various materials to restore damaged tooth structure and enhance smiles will also be presented. Porcelain veneers, all ceramic crowns, inlays and onlays, metal free fixed bridges, implant crowns and bridges and other processes will be shown in a step by step fashion using actual clinical cases.
- Learn how smile design and occlusion relate to full mouth esthetic rejuvenation
- Learn about smile enhancement with porcelain veneers
- Learn about reconstruction with esthetic crown and bridge
1:30pm–4:00pm • 2.5 CEU, CORE
What’s New in Pediatric Dentistry for the General Practitioner – The Cutting Edge
Carla Cohn, DMD
This is the cutting edge of pediatric dentistry, and it is all geared towards the general practitioner and family practice. Dentistry for kids just keeps getting better. Learn the newest and most innovative techniques and procedures. Minimally invasive and aesthetic restorative procedures. Step into the future of pediatric dentistry for the general practitioner.
- Explore novel restorative procedures for primary dentition
- Learn different approaches to restorative techniques
- Bring cutting edge pediatric dentistry to your family practice
1:30pm–4:00pm • 2.5 CEU, CORE
Expanding Patient Treatments with New Overdenture, New Sinus Lift/Implant
Henry Pond, DMD
Using case examples, two hot topics will be discussed: Restorative – a new alternative to locators for an all-on-2 implant overdenture solution will be unveiled. Surgical – a new sinus lift protocol & implant placement in 2mm of existing bone. Learning objectives:
- New overdenture solutions, instruments, materials and methods
- Minimally invasive-flapless crestal sinus lifting in as little as 2mm of bone
- Case selection criteria
2:45pm–3:45pm • 1 CEU, CORE
Dealing with Refund Demands from Benefit Plans
Cindy Hartwell; CDA Practice Support
Benefit plans request refunds for what they perceive to be “overpayments.” Oftentimes, dentists providing services to the plan beneficiaries are unaware of the cause for the refunds or even if the plans are allowed to request them. What triggers a benefit plan to request refunds? How should a dentist deal with them? Are these demands legitimate? Learn:
- Legitimate refund demands, and how contractual obligations influence the legitimacy of the request
- How to file an appeal when a provider does not agree with the request
