September 22, 2026 – Dana Bergenfeld, DDS – Evening Seminar
Dental Considerations for Cancer Patients with Head and Neck Radiation History

Course Description: Dental oncology is a niche field encompassing comprehensive dental care for patients with history of and/or active cancer diagnosis and treatment. Radiation is a common treatment for patients, and head and neck radiation changes the trajectory of oral health long term. It is important to understand complications and side effects of radiation to be able to best manage patients moving forward. The objective of this lecture is to feel empowered in treatment planning and giving home care recommendations for patients with head and neck radiation history.

November 10, 2026 – Jenna Ward, DMD – Evening Seminar
Oral Pre-Cancer and Cancer

Course Description: This lecture will review the concept of benign and malignant neoplastic processes. We will define epithelial dysplasia and oral cancer. Clinicians will be familiar with traditional patient risk factors and be able to identify suspicious lesions noted during routine oral hygiene visits. We will also discuss the role of genetic dysregulation in carcinogenesis and apply this concept in patient counseling and indefinite clinical monitoring.

March 2, 2026 – Tom Viola, R. Ph., C.C.P. – Evening Seminar
(Don’t) Take It On the Run, Baby! Illicit Drugs, Licit Drugs Used Illicitly and Management of Substance Use Disorder

Course description: Substance use disorder (SUD) affects millions of individuals and presents unique clinical, ethical, and interpersonal challenges in dental practice.

This course provides dentists and dental hygienists with the tools to recognize the oral and behavioral manifestations of SUD, manage treatment safely and compassionately, and navigate the complexities of care coordination, relapse risk, and stigma.

From methamphetamine-related caries to the implications of opioids, cannabis, alcohol, and emerging substances,
participants will explore evidence-based approaches to providing nonjudgmental, trauma-informed, and effective dental care to this vulnerable population

Learning Objectives :

• Define substance use disorder and describe its relevance to dental health and patient management
• Recognize the oral and systemic signs of common substances of misuse (e.g., methamphetamines, opioids, alcohol, cannabis, sedatives)
• Identify the potential complications of SUD during dental treatment, including drug interactions, anesthesia risks, and infection concerns
• Understand legal, ethical, and documentation considerations when treating patients with known or suspected substance use disorders

April 27, 2026 – Michael Sonick, DMD – Evening Seminar
Treating People Not Patients: Transformational Insights on Hospitality and Human Connection

Course Description: This program explores how hospitality and human connection elevate the care we provide—both clinically and emotionally. Designed specifically for dental hygienists and team members, this presentation focuses on creating meaningful patient experiences that build trust, loyalty, and long-term health.
We will look at both the “front stage” and “back stage” of the practice—how what we say, how we say it, and how we make people feel all contribute to exceptional outcomes. These principles are not only applicable to dentistry, but to any environment where people are served.
You will leave with practical strategies to enhance your role, strengthen patient relationships, and contribute to a culture of excellence within your practice.

You will learn to:
• Understand the role of hospitality in helping people feel valued and cared for
• Strengthen human connection to improve communication and case acceptance
• Create an organized, welcoming, and detail-oriented clinical environment
• Contribute to a cohesive, service-driven team that delivers a “WOW” experience
• Embrace mentorship and continuous growth to elevate your impact as a clinician