Summit for Pediatric Dentists, Orthodontists, & Full Dental Teams
‍^{JW Marriott | San Antonio, Texas}

This course teaches you how to build a strong, loyal patient base by engaging directly with your community and fostering trust. By collaborating with local businesses, participating in community events, and offering promotions for employees, you can enhance community engagement, resulting in a 30% increase in word-of-mouth referrals within the first year! The course also shows how personal connections lead to higher patient retention, with practices experiencing up to 25% better loyalty rates. Additionally, it covers strategies to boost brand awareness, improve your reputation, and increase patient inquiries by up to 40%. You'll also learn how to gather valuable insights into community needs, allowing you to tailor your services and improve patient satisfaction by 20%. Finally, the course equips you with actionable tactics to attract new patients immediately, such as partnering with local establishments and offering promotions, leading to a 20-30% increase in appointments within the first few months.

Upon completion of this course, participants should be able to:

-Enhance community engagement and trust.

-Increase patient loyalty and retention.

-Improve brand awareness and reputation.

-Gain a more in-depth understanding of community needs.
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-Improve patient satisfaction.

-Attract new patients immediately.

Michael Arias is a Ground Marketing Expert, Host & Founder of The Dental Marketer Podcast, Creator of the only Ground Marketing Course in the world, Co-Founder of The Making of a Dental Start-Up, and Co-Founder of the only Pediatric Dental Marketing Course.
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Fun Facts: 1) Michael Has over 600,000+ listeners on his Podcast 2) Is a drummer and used to play drums in a band 3) Watched the show "TheOffice" more than 50 times from start to end.

Lecture, up to 50 minutes
AGD Subject Code: 550; Practice Management & Human Relations

In today’s competitive business landscape, hiring the right team members is crucial to building a thriving, sustainable organization. Hiring for Success: Crafting a Winning Team explores the importance of strategic hiring and the long-term benefits it brings to an organization. With a focus on effective onboarding, employee engagement, and the creation of a positive workplace culture, this approach not only ensures employee satisfaction but also boosts productivity, patient retention, and revenue growth.-Ensuring alignment with workflow processes

Upon completion of this session, attendees should be able to:

-Learn best practices for onboarding, employee engagement, and creating a positive workplace culture that fosters long-term success.
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-Learn how hiring the right team members contributes to increased productivity, patient retention, and overall revenue growth in your practice.

With over 20 years as a professional in the dental industry, Malika Azargoon has established herself as a top dental management consultant in the DC Metro area. Her initial plan was to pursue a career in dentistry, but as her family grew, her focus and passion shifted from building her own practice to helping others create and grow theirs. Zar Dental Consulting now serves over 100 different practices fueled by Malika’s commitment to client-focused, results-driven best practices. Dentists and their teams find that Malika “speaks their language” and understands their different pain points. For this reason, she has been named the “Dental Therapist” and “Team Whisperer.”

Lecture, up to 50 minutes
AGD Subject Code: 550; Practice Management and Human Relations

This continuing education course is designed for dental healthcare providers seeking to understand the specific criteria and expectations that Dental Board Inspectors focus on during inspections. The course will provide an in-depth analysis of these aspects, along with a thorough review of the essential health and safety regulations mandated by the CDC and OSHA for dental settings. Participants will learn how to align these regulations with their workflow processes to ensure compliance. Finally, participants will be guided on how to create a comprehensive inspection readiness plan, incorporating the implications of specific Dental Board citations and sanctions.

COURSE OUTLINE:
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‍Module 1: Understanding Inspection Criteria
-Detailed analysis of Dental Board Inspector's focus during inspections
-Expectations and criteria

Module 2: Health and Safety Regulations
-CDC and OSHA mandates for dental settings
-Ensuring alignment with workflow processes

Module 3: Creating an Inspection Readiness Plan
-Understanding implications of Dental Board citations and sanctions
-Formulating a comprehensive readiness plan

Upon completion of this course, participants should be able to:

-Evaluate the specific criteria and expectations that Dental Board Inspectors focus on during inspections through an in-depth analysis.

-Analyze the essential health and safety regulations mandated by the CDC and OSHA for dental settings to ensure alignment with workflow processes required for compliance.

-Create a comprehensive inspection readiness plan, incorporating the implications of specific Dental Board citations and sanctions, to successfully navigate a Dental Board inspection.

India Chance is a distinguished dental safety specialist, celebrated for her comprehensive expertise as a Registered Dental Hygienist, Certified Infection Control Educator, and Authorized OSHA Trainer. As the visionary founder of Learn2Prevent, India spearheads initiatives to enhance dental compliance, emphasizing exceptional patient safety practices. Her significant contributions have garnered recognition from esteemed institutions such as the CDC Office of Oral Health and the Association for Dental Safety (ADS). Her unwavering dedication to advancing dental health standards is further highlighted by her roles on the Editorial Review Board for the ADS and Inside Dental Hygiene, as well as her position as a Dental Board Inspector for the Maryland State Board of Dental Examiners. In acknowledgment of her profound impact on the field, India received the 2023 Emerging Infection Control Leader award from the Association for Dental Safety.
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Lecture, up to 60 minutes
AGD Subject code: 148; Infection Control

This session will provide practical, actionable tips for improving both the efficiency of your office operations and the connection between team members. Attendees will learn strategies to streamline processes that directly impact patient experience, office productivity, and team morale. From optimizing referral systems to fostering a supportive and engaging team culture, this session will help you build an office that not only meets operational goals but also creates a positive, motivated environment for everyone involved.

Upon completion of this course, participants should be able to:

-Streamline processes such as referral management, clear fee presentations, and website design to enhance patient flow and overall office productivity.

-Gain practical insights on fostering a team-oriented environment where staff feels valued and connected, using practical strategies such as regular team lunches, shoutouts, proactive raises, and a budget for non-doctor team activities.

Lance Christensen is the husband of Dr. Ryann Christensen and the Office Manager of Christensen Family Orthodontics. After leaving the corporate world, where he specialized in marketing and product development, he jumped into the adventure of helping his wife build her dream practice. A true jack of all trades, Lance wears many hats—handling IT, team morale, accounting, and even the occasional building maintenance—all so Dr. Christensen can focus on creating beautiful smiles.

Lecture, up to 50 minutes
AGD Subject Code: 550; Practice Management & Human Relations‍

Dental benefit trends impact both in- and -out-of-network offices. The economics of your practice relies on your insurance system’s standard operating procedures (SOPs) and how well they are followed. If you are considering changing your participation positions, then let’s make sound decisions based on accurate reporting.

Upon completion of this course, participants should be able to:

-Understand upcoming industry changes and how they affect your practice
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-Improve documentation to increase and protect revenue

With over 20 years of healthcare experience, Teresa addresses topics such as Insurance Coding, Office Manager Training and Patient Conversations. Her memberships include Women in DSO and the National Association of Dental Plans. She has been named one of the Top 25 Women in Dentistry and is the author of Moving Your Patients to Yes: Easy Insurance Conversations as well as a contributing author to the ADA's Annual CDT ComQanion Guide™. Her podcasts "Nobody Told Me That!" and "Chew On This!" provide regular coding and management updates. Teresa received her Master's Degree in Healthcare Management.
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Lecture, up to 50 minutes
AGD Subject Code: 554; Dental Insurance

Dave Gibb will show you how to stop the threat of lawsuits before they ever get started by protecting your assets in time tested and proven legal structures. These same structures allow us to help our tax attorneys save what you would normally pay in income taxes. These are little known tax helps that have significant case history and have stood the test of time.

Upon completion of this course, participants should be able to:

-Maintain the focus of their medical practice on improved patient care rather than malpractice defense.

-Structure their practices for lawsuit protection and prevention, improving overall operations management of the practice.

-Protect practice and professional assets from lawsuits through applied risk management techniques.

-Understand basic practice management tools that can help decrease unnecessary loss of revenue.

David Gibb is an experienced speaker and trainer with a diverse background. He served as an Instructor/Trainer for UHS Pro from 2009 to 2011, where he educated medical professionals on heart and vascular care at state conferences nationwide. Prior to that, he was a Workshop Instructor at Imall, Inc from 1996 to 1999, where he guided business owners on developing and monetizing their websites. David holds a Communications degree from the University of Utah (1996– 2000) and has accumulated CE accreditations in health and wellness from 2015 to 2022. He has also held roles in business development, including National Sales Director at Legally Mine from 2018 to the present, and previously owned Advanced Sun Systems in Orem, Utah from 1999 to 2010.

Lecture, Up to 60 minutes
AGD Subject Code: 550; Practice Management, Financials & Taxes

It’s a heart-wrenching moment when a doctor discovers that someone they trusted has been stealing from their practice. For many, it’s a long-time employee—the very person they relied on. It’s a betrayal that cuts deep. And, for Susan, it’s a call she answers all too often.

Over the course of a 30-year practice, statistics show that at least one employee will likely become an embezzler. With years of experience on the front lines of gathering evidence, Susan has countless stories that highlight just how often and easily embezzlement can happen. And, as you’ll see, she’s also an incredible storyteller who will not only illustrate the realities of embezzlement but show you how to protect your practice. Designed specifically for dental professionals, this course provides practical, easy-to-implement oversight strategies that will help safeguard your practice from internal theft. Throughout this session, you’ll gain actionable insights into protecting your finances, your reputation, and your peace of mind.

Upon completion of this course, participants should be able to:

-Gain insight into the psychology and rationalizations behind embezzlement.

-Learn the step-by-step process of how employees steal and cover their tracks.

-Understand the warning signs and subtle behaviors of someone committing fraud.

-Discover the devastating impact on your practice and team, and how to avoid these consequences.
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-Develop practical, customized strategies for reducing risk and creating stronger oversight within your practice.

Come prepared to rethink your trust and leave with practical steps to protect your practice from the devastating effects of embezzlement.

Susan Gunn is a Financial Organizational Expert specializing in healthcare practices, including dental, medical, veterinary, and chiropractic. With over 27 years of experience in business automation and financial software, she revolutionized financial practices by bridging the gap between practice software and QuickBooks. Susan is a Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor, Advanced ProAdvisor, and has authored 48 books, including Managing Accounts Payable in Your Practice and QuickBooks In Your Practice.A sought-after speaker, she combines humor and expertise to deliver practical advice for professional practices. Susan is a Certified Fraud Examiner, investigating embezzlement cases and offering complete reports for prosecution.
Recognized as a Financial Matter Expert by the American Dental Association and a Leader in Consulting by Dentistry Today, she also contributes to industry publications. Susan has served in leadership roles, including Treasurer for the Academy of Dental Management Consultants, and is an active community member in Arlington, TX.
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Lecture, Up to 60 minutes
AGD Subject Code: 550; Embezzlement & Practice Management

As oral health professionals, we invest years and years into education, training, and honing our craft. Over time, we pour even more into growing our practices and navigating the highs and lows of our careers. However, if we are not careful, we can allow ourselves to be defined solely by our professional achievements and struggles, staffing issues, and the patient experience. This is exhausting.

In this presentation, Dr. Hanks explores the power and confidence that come from defining ourselves far beyond dentistry. He will delve into the science behind how cultivating skills, hobbies, and service pursuits outside of the office results in greater joy, reduced stress, and decreased burnout. By embracing growth beyond our profession, we can experience more fulfillment, increased practice success, and a profound resilience both in our personal lives and in our careers. We all deserve a little more of something else.

Upon completion of this course, participants should be able to:

-Identify practical application ideas for increased positive impact inside and outside of the dental practice.-Complete a useful self-evaluation to target and reduce signs of burnout and stress.

-Come away with useful ideas for increased creativity, and a more robust influence on children, staff, and self.

Dr. Benjamin Hanks loves surfing waves of all sizes, hiking, cliff-jumping, and the art of homemade ice cream. He and his adventure-driven wife co-founded a nonprofit dedicated to supporting the children and youth of Maui, with a direct focus on those impacted by the Lahaina wildfires. He is a published author and is working on improving his clumsy pottery skills. He finds great joy in travel and in discovering new food with his family. He finds purpose in service in his community and church. He is a pediatric dentist and splits time between his private practice in Kihei, and helping at community health clinics in Hana and the island of Moloka'i.

Lecture, Up to 50 minutes
AGD Subject Code: 430; Pediatric Dentistry & 770; Self-Improvement

A dynamic presentation designed to inspire dental professionals to lead with heart, clarity, and resilience in the fast-paced world of pediatric dentistry. This session explores strategies for creating a positive practice culture, building strong patient relationships, and empowering team members. Through the lens of compassionate leadership, participants will learn how to align their daily work with their greater purpose and try to maintain a healthy balance between professional and personal life. It’s about going beyond survival to thrive, making a meaningful impact on patients, teams, and community.

Upon completion of this course, participants should be able to:

-Define their purpose as leaders and clinicians, aligning their daily work with their long-term vision while making a meaningful impact.
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-Foster a positive and cohesive practice culture by creating an environment where patients and team members feel valued and inspired.

Dr. Neda Kalantar, owner and founder of Pediatric Dentistry of Reston in Northern Virginia, is passionate about creating a fun, welcoming, and positive experience in her safari themed pediatric dental office. In 2026, she will celebrate 20 years of dedicated service to the community alongside her exceptional team.

She has been honored with numerous recognitions, including being recognized as a Top Washingtonian Dentist by her peers and the community. Dr. Neda’s passion for pediatric oral health advocacy was sparked by her journey with Operation Smile International. As a dedicated volunteer and global educator for Operation Smile, she has participated and helped organize over 20 missions and educational programs in countries such as Vietnam, Gaza, Peru, Rwanda, and Malawi, championing children’s oral health and trying to make a meaningful impact. Born in Chicago and raised in Virginia Beach, her passion for pediatric dentistry began during her early days at the University of Virginia and VCU School of Dentistry, where she discovered her passion. She takes pride in inspiring both her patients and team members to become advocates for better oral health, extending her impact far beyond the dental chair.

Dr. Neda lives with her husband, two teenage sons, and their beloved dog, Zeus. When she’s not at the office, she enjoys long walks, traveling, hot yoga and spending quality time with family and friends.  
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Lecture, Up to 50 minutes
AGD Subject Code: 430; Pediatric Dentistry & 770; Self-Improvement

This course introduces an innovative approach to identifying and managing risks impacting children's oral health and development. Participants will gain a deep understanding of the interplay between behavioral, environmental, and developmental factors that influence oral growth. The course emphasizes preventive care, early intervention, and tailored management strategies to foster optimal oral and facial development in children. Ideal for dental professionals, this course equips participants with the tools to improve pediatric oral health outcomes through evidence-based practices.

Upon completion of this course, participants should be able to:

-Define a framework and its significance in pediatric oral health management.

-Identify key risk factors that predispose children to poor oral development.
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-Describe protective measures to safeguard oral health.

-Implement personalized intervention strategies to address individual needs.

-Communicate effectively with parents and caregivers to promote proactive oral health practices and create supportive environments for healthy growth.

With a passion for assisting dental and medical professionals to work together in screening and treating for oral myofunctional disorders and overall health, Joy Lantz, RDH, PHDH, COM, IBCLC brings nearly 30 years of experience in the dental field. She is a sought-after international professional speaker presenting courses on anticipatory guidance, collaboration for patient care, and myofunctional therapy.

Joy received her certification in orofacial myology (COM) from the International Association of Orofacial Myology in 2017. She serves as the Executive Committee Secretary and as a Board of Director of the IAOM. She earned the title Certified Breastfeeding Specialist in 2021 and earned her International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) credential in 2022. She is co-creator of the mini Sproutz program for children aged birth to three with anticipatory guidance for parents and to track oral development in early years. Joy is also the owner of Joy Lantz: Transforming Oral Health, specializing in educating colleagues about advanced myofunctional concepts and business development.

Lecture, Up to 60 minutes
AGD Subject Code: 188; Myofunctional Therapy

Marketing your pediatric or orthodontic practice doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In this fast-paced, fun, and interactive course, Minal will cover 30 creative, actionable marketing strategies tailored for pediatric and orthodontic dental practices. From internal marketing systems to engaging social media campaigns, impactful community initiatives, and creative patient appreciation ideas, you’ll leave with a toolbox full of fresh, implementable ideas. Learn how to captivate parents, excite young patients, and build connections that turn your practice into a local favorite—all in just 50 minutes!

Upon completion of this course, participants should be able to:

-Implement internal, community, and digital marketing strategies to attract and retain patients.

-Craft creative, engaging, and kid-friendly social media content that resonates with parents.

-Leverage video testimonials, referral systems, and patient appreciation events to boost growth.

Minal Sampat. RDH is the bestselling author of Why Your Marketing Is Killing Your Business, And What To Do About It. She is the founder of Marketologist—an online marketing strategy and training course and community. She is a renowned marketing strategist, sought-after speaker and social media coach extraordinaire. Minal is the founder of the popular CE on The Beach^TM Event! She hosts CE events and workshops on beautiful islands around the world. This event has sold out every single time! Plus, she is co-founder of the Pediatric Dental Marketing Course & Pediatric Dental Growth Summit!

Lecture, Up to 50 Minutes
AGD Subject Code: 550; Practice Management & Human Relations

Elevate your dental practice with our dynamic course on utilizing and implementing an Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA). As the dental landscape evolves, integrating an EFDA can significantly enhance patient care, improve workflow efficiency, and optimize team performance. This course provides dental professionals with essential knowledge and practical strategies for effectively incorporating EFDAs into their practices. Through hands-on training, collaborative discussions, and real-life scenarios, you'll gain the tools necessary to maximize the potential of your EFDA, ensuring a seamless transition that benefits both your team and your patients.

Upon completion of this course, participants should be able to:
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-Maximize Revenue Through Expanded Services: Understand how to effectively leverage the expanded skill set of EFDAs to offer additional services, thereby increasing production numbers and enhancing overall profitability.

-Optimize Dental Coding and Billing Practices: Learn to accurately code procedures performed by EFDAs, ensuring proper billing and reimbursement while minimizing errors that could lead to revenue loss.

-Implement Scheduling Structures : Develop a comprehensive scheduling structure that recognizes the contributions of EFDAs, promoting procedure timing, likes/dislikes of providers, recognizing strengths & weaknesses for the daily office workflow ensuring a seamless productive day that keeps the team morale up.

Stacey holds a degree in Business Administration and is the current Practice Administrator for both Harborside Dental and York County Pediatric Dentistry in Wells, Maine. Stacey is an active member of the American Association of Dental Office Management where she has earned the organization's highest achievement, the elite designation of Diplomate. She is the founder & past President of the Maine Dental Leadership Coalition. Having served the dental community since 1997, Stacey is a Certified Dental Assistant and an Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary. She is the Dental Director at York County Community College where she leads the dental assisting and EFDA programs as an instructor.

She enjoys local volunteer programs and has a passion for the dental industry as is reflected in her numerous recognitions in office culture and management excellence. She was a Dental Assistant of the Year runner-up in 2016 and awarded Dental Office Manager of Distinction in 2023. She is a published author, speaker, and trusted consultant guiding dental practices to great new heights. Stacey's favorite thing to do is enjoy all outdoor activities in Maine with her family.

"In today's dental world, the need for complete EFDA utilization has become very apparent. I have the drive and determination to see the future success of dental practices and can enrich their EFDAs and team's skill set to ensure increased productivity There is nothing greater than helping an EFDA find their passion and navigate their course towards supreme career fulfillment." –SS
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Lecture, Up to 60 Minutes
AGD Subject Code: 550; Practice Management & Human Relations

Kevin Thurman is a Certified Public Accountant and is the founder, and owner, of DentaLedgers, Inc. Since starting DentaLedgers over 15 years ago, Kevin and his staff of accountants provide accounting, tax, and practice valuation services to dentists across the United States.

Lecture, up to 60 minutes
AGD Subject Code: 552; Financial Management in Dental Offices

Are you struggling through challenges in the current staffing environment? Are your team members clowning around? Attendees will explore the art of managing team chaos and thriving in today’s circus of hiring and employee retention. The course is designed for leaders and managers, who find themselves juggling multiple responsibilities and personalities in the workplace. Participants will be encouraged to share their experiences and learn from real-world scenarios. This course encourages audience participation.

Upon completion of this course, participants should be able to:

-Identify the key elements and players and recognize the dynamics of running a successful dental office.

-Learn strategies to effectively manage diverse teams, handle difficult people, and foster a positive and productive atmosphere.

-Create systems for sourcing talent and hiring, prioritization, time management, and maintaining focus amidst distractions.

-Recognize practical tools for communication, conflict resolution, decision-making under pressure.

-Cultivate a culture where employees want to be successful and want to refer others to work.

Beverly Wilburn is the owner of MagnifiDent® Inc., a company focused on successful strategies for dental businesses and entrepreneur journeys in the dental space and is the Founder of Dental Spouses in Business™, the premiere dental spouse group in the US. She serves as a consultant and expert in the standard of care for dental business practices and is the Vice-President of the Dental Entrepreneur Woman Advisory Board.  Beverly is a past winner of a Denobi and has also been granted the ultra-prestigious award of AADOM Practice Administrator of the Year.

Are you struggling through challenges in the current staffing environment? Are your team members clowning around? Attendees will explore the art of managing team chaos and thriving in today’s circus of hiring and employee retention. The course is designed for leaders and managers, who find. themselves juggling multiple responsibilities and personalities in the workplace. Participants will be encouraged to share their experiences and learn from real-world scenarios. This course encourages audience participation.

Lecture, up to 60 minutes
AGD Subject Code: 550 Practice Management & Human Relations  

Navigating the regulatory maze can feel like a never-ending game of compliance whack-a-mole—fix one issue, and another pops up. When Compliance Isn't Compliant is a dynamic 60-minute course designed specifically for pediatric dentists and orthodontists. This session dives deep into the essential regulations you need to stay on top of to be truly compliant with regulations. With a practical, no-nonsense approach, this course will help you identify common pitfalls, implement effective solutions, and leave you better prepared to protect your team, your practice, and most importantly - your patients.

Upon completion of this course, participants should be able to:
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-Identify and understand the key regulatory requirements relevant to pediatric dentists and orthodontists, including Privacy, Security, Cybersecurity, Infection Control, and opioid compliance.

-Develop practical strategies to address common compliance challenges, mitigate risks, and implement effective solutions to safeguard patients, staff, and practice operations.

Amy Wood believes that caring for a patient extends past caring for their teeth and mouth. As the CEO of Copper Penny Consulting, she has dedicated her career to helping dental professionals navigate the complex world of compliance. Known for her practical, engaging approach, she blends expertise with humor to make even the most challenging topics relatable and actionable. Amy is passionate about empowering dental teams to create safe, compliant, and thriving practices.

Lecture, up to 60 minutes
AGD Subject Code: 566; HIPPA