Keynote Speakers
Peter Barry - The Ultimate New Dentist Playbook for Thriving & Success in Clinical Practice
Peter Barry
The Learning Curve for recent graduates transitioning into private practice is exciting; and very rewarding for those who prepare themselves to thrive in a profession that is undergoing rapid transformation. After four challenging & rewarding years of dental school you will eagerly await the arrival of your license. A seeming lifetime will have been spent to reach this point, with a big investment of money, time & effort as well as many personal sacrifices. It’s an exciting time filled with many choices, opportunities and strategic hurdles. This empowering keynote is filled with revealing concepts and practical strategies for the ambitious career minded graduating dentist seeking direction & wisdom for accelerated growth, success and happiness in clinical practice.
Peter Barry is a highly sought-after industry leader, writer, advisor, coach, and speaker whose message has inspired audiences & teams across North America. He is the founder of “Practice Mastery” a Business & Team Development Coaching company that serves the growth & development needs your practice. For more than 20 years, he has empowered dental professionals & industry companies with unique systems & strategies for extraordinary growth, higher income, and exceptional quality of life and better patient care. He provides customized group and one-on-one “Success Training” to dental professionals and industry companies across N. America. He is also frequent contributor at Dental Implant Residency Programs on the implementation & integration of advanced dentistry & new technologies into your practice. His insightful programs are filled with revealing concepts and practical strategies that create accelerated growth and lasting change in the professional & personal lives dentists/teams. He is also co-founder of Bella Vita Designs; an Interior Design Company specializing in startups, remodeling, expanding or relocating your dream practice facility.
Dr. Bao-Tran Nguyen - Breaking the Mold: Shifting the Conversation - How Communication is Reshaping Dentistry
Dr. Bao-Tran Nguyen
In the world of modern dentistry, your greatest tool isn’t hanging on the wall - it is your ability to communicate. While formal professional education focuses on developing technical skills, it often overlooks the most crucial element for long-term professional success: leading conversations. In the dental chair, patients aren’t just facing clinical procedures - they’re dealing with fear, uncertainty and vulnerability. Likewise, dentists are not only performing treatments, but also navigating the complex emotion, anxieties, and subtle nuances of patient decisions and behaviour. This keynote aims to inspire a shift in how dentists engage patients and lead conversations with greater influence.
Dr. Bao-Tran Nguyen, a multi-location dental practice owner and the visionary co-founder of Fast Growth Practice, is on a mission to help dentists do more than just drill and fill—she helps them build practices and careers they are truly passionate about. Drawing on her own incredible journey—from a refugee child to a renowned dental entrepreneur—she is proof that your past doesn’t define your future. After escaping Vietnam as a child, navigating refugee camps, and overcoming countless obstacles, Dr. Nguyen now dedicates herself to helping dentists do the same—breaking through limitations to build high-performing practices. Through programs like The $100,000 Day, the CEO Fast Track, Master Case Acceptance, and an online community, Dr. Nguyen doesn’t just offer advice—she provides a proven roadmap. She’s a mentor who understands the unique challenges dentists face and knows exactly how to help them break through. As a Key Opinion Leader in the industry, Dr. Nguyen brings academic credibility and real-world hustle, leveraging her influence to build a movement of dentists who are ready to rewrite their own success stories. Her message is simple yet powerful: With the right strategy, mindset, and support, you can build a career that is personally, professionally, and financially fulfilling.
Dr. Faraj Edher - Crafting Tomorrow's Smiles: Digital Dentistry Precision with Patient-Centered Purpose
Dr. Faraj Edher
This presentation explores the evolving landscape of digital dentistry and its impact on patient-centered care. Through practical examples and clinical cases, participants will discover how digital workflows are transforming diagnostic capabilities, treatment planning, and clinical outcomes. The session demonstrates how emerging technologies enhance both technical precision and patient communication, making complex treatments more predictable and understandable. Emphasis is placed on understanding fundamental digital dentistry concepts and their practical implementation in daily practice. Attendees will gain insights into integrating digital workflows that improve both clinical efficiency and the patient experience, preparing them for the technology-driven future of dentistry. At the conclusion of this presentation, attendees should be able to:
To understand how digital workflows are shaping the future of diagnosis, treatment planning, and clinical outcomes in modern dentistry
To recognize opportunities where digital tools enhance patient communication and treatment acceptance
To gain foundational knowledge of key digital technologies (intraoral scanning, facial scanning, smile design) and their practical clinical applications
To develop confidence in incorporating digital dentistry concepts for improved patient care
Dr. Faraj Edher is a specialist in Prosthodontics and the founder of Transcend Specialized Dentistry, a multi-specialty clinic in Downtown Vancouver. He received his dental degree from the University of Sharjah College of Dental Medicine, and then continued his Masters in Craniofacial Science and post-graduate specialty training in Prosthodontics at the University of British Columbia. In addition to practicing full time in Vancouver, Dr. Edher is an active educator. He is the Founder of Canada’s largest study club, the BC Dental Study Club, and a Clinical Assistant Professor and guest lecturer at the University of British Columbia.
Friday Speakers
Dr. Gary Glassman - Systematic Endodontic Diagnostic Protocol: Making the Correct Treatment Decisions
A complete endodontic diagnosis must include both a pulpal and a periapical diagnosis for each tooth evaluated before endodontic treatment can be rendered. It is much like going on a reconnaissance mission, gathering as much information as possible and not relying on a single isolated piece of this information before endodontic treatment is provided. This presentation will take the participant on a diagnostic journey to be able to come to a proper decision systematically and logically and decide whether the patient’s symptoms are odontogenic in origin or coming from another source.
Learning Objectives:
To learn the Advancements and Concepts that will allow predictably successful endodontic treatment
To predictably carry out pulpal and periapical tests in a logical and efficient sequence
To make a pulp and periapical diagnosis according to the AAE Classification
To be able to treat the most common endodontic emergencies
To be able to differentially diagnose and treat Endo/Perio Cases
To experience different types of interesting case presentations
Dr. Amarjit Rihal - The Top 3 Technological Advancements in Dentistry… CAD/CAM, 3D Printing and Laser Dentistry
This lecture and hands-on workshop will look at the top technological advances in dentistry, including CAD/CAM, 3D Printing, and Laser Dentistry. Clinical workflow and case examples will be discussed, and during the hands-on component, attendees will be able to experience the Solea CO2 laser and the DS PrimeScan and PrimeMill.
Dr. Nekky Jamal - Extractions
You ready to learn to take on extractions in the real world? Come check out some extraction tips and tricks to prepare you for clinical practice. We’re going to go over essential armamentarium, flap design, and sectioning techniques. This ain’t no dental school lecture! You ready?! Let’s go!
Alex Zlatin and Savannah Koran (Mint Ops) - 5 Ways to Pay Off Your Student Debt Faster
Here are the points we'll be covering at the session:
Screening Practices to Find a Great Fit
Mentorship and Scope of Practice
Working Rural vs. Urban
5 Things to Know When Starting an Associateship
Protecting Yourself as a Dentist
Julie Berthiaume and Penny Hall (CDSPI) - Money Matters: A Fun Financial Kahoot for Dental Students
Are you ready to boost your financial knowledge and show off what you already know -- all while having a blast? CDSPI invites all dental students to participate in an exciting Kahoot! battle designed to enhance your understanding of personal finance and maybe win a prize!
What to Expect:
An interactive experience: participate in real time with other dental students and see where you’re at when it comes to personal finance.
Financial insights: Walk away with tips, facts and stats that may impact your money mindset.
Prizes and rewards: Exciting prizes await the top scorers, so bring your A-game!
Some new friends: Connect with fellow students while discussing financial strategies relevant to your future careers.
TD Bank Group - Filling in Financial Gaps
This seminar focuses on identifying and addressing gaps in your financial plan to help achieve long-term stability and success. Topics include financial stages, Budgeting, Credit Score Tips and more.
Drs. Sanya and Saj Arora - Mastering Anterior Composites: Tips for New Grad Dentists + Hands On Demo
This course is designed to help dental students excel in aesthetic anterior composite restorations. Participants will learn step-by-step techniques for achieving natural-looking results using dental materials that are already found in every dental practice - no fancy materials needed.
Learning Objectives:
Understand the basic dental instruments and composite materials needed for aesthetic cases
Learn shade matching and contouring to mimic natural dentition
Gain strategies to address common challenges, including managing difficult cases, achieving strong adhesion, and preventing postoperative sensitivity.
Patient Communication: how to manage patient expectations for aesthetic cases
Make sure to bring a PFI with you for this session!
Dentalcorp: Beyond the Traditional Associateship - A discussion around emerging career paths in dentistry
Panelists:
Early career dentists working in rural practices
Primary dentists and recently promoted associates
Panel Focus:
Career Pathways in Dentistry: Panelists will discuss new and emerging career paths available that extend beyond the traditional associateship. Panelists will discuss how they chose their specific routes.
Identifying the Right Practice: Panelists will reflect on how they found the right practice to join, highlighting key factors and personal experiences in making these decisions.
The Importance of Early Career Decisions: Panelists will emphasize why it’s crucial to find the right opportunity early in one’s career, and offer practical advice on how dental students can set themselves up for long-term success.
Dr. Mariana Leon (Colgate) - The Why of Dry (Xerostomia)
Xerostomia is a prevalent condition. Not only can it cause discomfort for patients, it can also place patients at a higher risk for caries, periodontitis, oral fungal infections, and acid erosion. This program discusses the role of saliva in oral health, causes of xerostomia, and complications due to a reduction in saliva. Prevention and management of oral complications of xerostomia and palliative treatment are included.
Learning Objectives:
Understand the role of saliva in maintaining oral health
Know the causes of xerostomia
Recognize oral complications and manifestations of xerostomia
Identify prevention and treatment options for oral complications due to xerostomia
Richard Lochhead and Joshua Fernando (Renn Financial) - The Harsh Realities of a New Grad
Join us for an insightful lecture hosted by Renn Financial Group, a leading financial advisory firm specializing in strategies for Canadian dentists. This engaging session will explore the evolving dynamics of the dental industry and the critical business changes that are reshaping the profession.
In recent years, the business of dentistry has experienced significant transformations—from the rise of corporate dental chains, changes in insurance offerings, and availability of associate positions. Understanding these shifts is essential for dental professionals who wish to thrive in an increasingly competitive market.
This lecture will cover:
Key changes in the dental industry and their impact on associates
The growing influence of corporate dentistry and what it means for independent practitioners
Strategies to adapt to these changes and secure long-term financial success
How to prepare for a rewarding career in a rapidly evolving landscape
Whether you're in your final year or early in your program, this session will provide valuable insights to help you navigate the challenges and opportunities in today's dental environment.
Dr. Sam Malkinson - Tertiary Implant Stability
As implants become increasingly commoditized within dentistry, how can we separate ourselves from the masses and elevate our implant therapy to new heights? Protocols for the surgical placement of implants have been well-established for some time now. The area where a practitioner can truly stand out is by planning their implants for long-term stability. In Tertiary Implant Stability, we will explore the various facets which influence the longevity of implants. By examining pre-surgical, peri-surgical, and post-surgical aspects of implantology, we can better appreciate what goes into making certain the implant that we place today is still in a functional and esthetic state thirty years hence.
By the end of this lecture, participants will:
be aware of how periodontal and peri-implant health affect long-term implant stability
be aware of how the size, position and angulation of an implant affect long-term implant stability
be aware of what they can do to manage the pre-, peri-, and post-operative phases of implantology to ensure the best prognosis for long-term implant stabilitynd treatment options for oral complications due to xerostomia
Kimberly Pacula and Angie Dodd (Associate Recruiter) - Your First Step to Success: Landing Your Dream Dentist Job
Are you ready to transition from dental school to the workforce?
Join us for an engaging session packed with valuable insights to help dental students land their ideal associate dentist role. We'll cover the latest trends in the associate market, tips for crafting a standout CV, must-ask interview questions, understanding associate contracts, and the pros and cons of working in rural vs. urban practices. Learn the differences between privately owned practices and dental corporations, access exclusive job listings across Canada and the USA, and network with some of the top dental recruiters in the industry. Leave feeling confident and prepared to kickstart your career as an associate dentist!
Gurtej Varn (White Coat Financial) - Clinic Ownership Workshop: Your Guide to Practice Ownership
This workshop provides a step-by-step guide to dental clinic ownership, examining the pros and cons of starting a new practice versus buying an existing one. Attendees will explore key considerations for each option, including build-outs, established practice evaluations, and the roles of essential professional team members.
The session also simplifies the complexities of financing, covering how loans work, what banks require, and how to secure approval. Participants will gain valuable insights into assessing practice appraisals and navigating the entire ownership process—from making the decision to own a clinic to taking over the keys.
At the conclusion of this workshop, attendees will:
Compare the benefits and challenges of starting a clinic versus purchasing an existing practice.
Understand financing options and the steps needed for loan approval.
Learn what to look for in practice appraisals to make informed decisions.
Dr. Sanjukta Mohanta - Managing Medically Compromised Patients
This dynamic and interactive presentation will make you capable and confident in managing medically compromised patients. You will learn when to proceed with treatment, modify treatment and postpone treatment for patients with common medical conditions such as hypertension, heart attack, stroke, diabetes, defibrillators, cancer, and patients taking medications such as bisphosphonates and blood thinners. Have fun while learning a simple system to manage complex cases.
Learning Outcomes
Modifying dental treatment to safely care for medically compromised patients
Understanding when dental treatment is contraindicated
Managing patients who have common medical conditions
Saturday Speakers
Dr. Gary Glassman - Systematic Endodontic Diagnostic Protocol: Making the Correct Treatment Decisions (Repeat)
A complete endodontic diagnosis must include both a pulpal and a periapical diagnosis for each tooth evaluated before endodontic treatment can be rendered. It is much like going on a reconnaissance mission, gathering as much information as possible and not relying on a single isolated piece of this information before endodontic treatment is provided. This presentation will take the participant on a diagnostic journey to be able to come to a proper decision systematically and logically and decide whether the patient’s symptoms are odontogenic in origin or coming from another source.
Learning Objectives:
To learn the Advancements and Concepts that will allow predictably successful endodontic treatment
To predictably carry out pulpal and periapical tests in a logical and efficient sequence
To make a pulp and periapical diagnosis according to the AAE Classification
To be able to treat the most common endodontic emergencies
To be able to differentially diagnose and treat Endo/Perio Cases
To experience different types of interesting case presentations
Drs. Sanya and Saj Arora - Communication & Marketing Tips For New Grad Dentists
This presentation will focus on the skills every new dentist needs to master in their first year of being a dentist - communication & marketing skills. Yes, clinical skills are important, but communication skills help you earn the trust of your patients, which ultimately helps them accept your clinical treatment plan more readily. Moreover, good communication skills and trust amongst the patient helps protect you when treatment doesn’t go according to planned or when complications arise. This presentation will teach you things you won’t learn in dental school - how to create a loyal patient base and help you stand out as a new graduate dentist in a competitive dental market.
Learning Objectives:
Perfect the art of “word of mouth" referrals
How to market yourself in a competitive and saturated area
Communication tips for anxious adult & paediatric patients
How to sell a treatment plan with confidence
How to communicate with staff, earn their respect & get them to work efficiently
Dr. Mark Lin - Prosthodontic Options for Tooth Replacement Therapy
Our patients present with various dental diseases that make the natural dentition non restorable and mandates exodontia. As restorative dentists, we have various prosthodontic tooth replacement options ranging from removable, tooth retained fixed, or implant supported removable or fixed prosthetic dentistry. The advantages and disadvantages of various treatment options will be reviewed; complete dentures, removable partial dentures, crown, bridges, implant supported removable, and implant retained fixed prosthesis.
Dr. Nicholas Tong - Geriatric Dentistry: Rapid Oral Health Deterioration in Older Adults
Frail and functionally dependent older adults present unique challenges for dental teams aiming to optimize their oral health. Multimorbidity, polypharmacy, and frailty contribute to functional decline in older adults and increase the risk of rapid oral health deterioration. Declines in cognition can affect patient co-operation for dental procedures, consent, and daily oral hygiene. Managing the dental needs of these older adults presents numerous clinical challenges in terms of treatment planning and treatment delivery.
This lecture in Geriatric Dentistry will discuss practical tips for managing common clinical scenarios in frail and functionally dependent older adults as well as geriatric treatment planning concepts.
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
Describe the impact of cognitive decline, multimorbidity, and frailty on oral health
Describe practical skills that clinicians can use chair side to foster a positive experience for frail and functionally dependent older adults in the operatory
Examine the impact of evidence-based risk factors in treatment planning in functionally independent older adults compared to their frail/functionally dependent counterparts
Julie Berthiaume and Penny Hall (CDSPI) - Money Matters: A Fun Financial Kahoot for Dental Students (Repeat)
Are you ready to boost your financial knowledge and show off what you already know -- all while having a blast? CDSPI invites all dental students to participate in an exciting Kahoot! battle designed to enhance your understanding of personal finance and maybe win a prize!
What to Expect:
An interactive experience: participate in real time with other dental students and see where you’re at when it comes to personal finance.
Financial insights: Walk away with tips, facts and stats that may impact your money mindset.
Prizes and rewards: Exciting prizes await the top scorers, so bring your A-game!
Some new friends: Connect with fellow students while discussing financial strategies relevant to your future careers.
TD Bank Group - Building Your Dream Practice and Basics on Investing
Building your dream Practice – This seminar is designed for professionals looking to establish and grow their own practice.
Basics on Investing - This seminar introduces fundamentals of investing, perfect for beginners. The session focuses on empowering individuals with knowledge and confidence to start their investment journey.
Dr. Faraj Edher - Garbage in, Garbage out: How to take digital impressions your lab will thank you for
In the dynamic landscape of digital dentistry, the quality of digital impressions stands as a cornerstone for successful restorative outcomes. This presentation delves into the critical nuances of intra-oral scanning, offering a trove of practical tips, troubleshooting strategies, and team-oriented approaches. From mastering general techniques to scanning for both simple and complex restorations, this presentation is designed to equip dental professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to produce digital impressions of unparalleled quality.
Learning Objectives:
Master General Intra-Oral Scanning Techniques: Understand the foundational principles and techniques of intra-oral scanning to ensure high-quality outcomes from the start.
Optimize Scans for Indirect Restorations: Gain specific insights into scanning for indirect restorations like crowns and veneers, focusing on details that make a significant difference in lab processing.
Best Practices for Scanning Implants: Explore advanced techniques for scanning single-unit and full-arch implants, including tips for capturing precise implant positions and soft tissue details.
Troubleshooting Common Issues: Learn how to identify and resolve common scanning challenges to minimize disruptions and improve scan accuracy. 5. Team Training Tips: Discover strategies for training your dental team on effective scanning practices to ensure consistency and quality across all operators.
Sam Tarrabain and Ryan Brown (MNP) - A Dentist's Financial Playbook
As a dentist, your career is not only about clinical skills, it's about building a strong, sustainable financial future. Join us for a comprehensive lecture tailored specifically to the unique financial landscape of Canadian dentists. A Dentist's Financial Playbook will guide you through the essential financial strategies and insights every dental professional needs to succeed, from day one to retirement.
In this session, you'll learn:
The Fundamentals of Financial Planning for Dentists: Understand the key principles behind managing your personal/corporate finances, personal wealth, and tax strategies.
Optimal Timing for Key Financial Decisions: From choosing if to pay down debt or invest, when to incorporate, and how to manage cashflow — this session covers the "whats" and "whens" that can make or break your financial future.
Tax Tips and Avoiding Pitfalls: Discover tax strategies and tips to ensure you are well prepared before it's too late.
Whether you're just starting your dental program, or in your final year, this playbook is designed to provide you with practical tools and expert advice to achieve long-term financial success. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how to turn your dental career into a flourishing financial journey!
Dr. Sanjukta Mohanta - Oral Health Hacks
Join Dr. Sanj for a discussion about oral health hacks.
Dr. Nekky Jamal - Dental Anesthesia
We are nothing as Dentists without proper anesthesia! Come check out some real world tips and tricks about local anesthesia as well as sedation options we can provide for our patients. This fun, energetic lecture will help prepare you for clinical practice and ensure your patients love you for not hurting them!
Dr. Angela Wong - An Introduction to Maxillofacial Prosthodontics
This presentation will focus on the different types of maxillofacial prostheses used to help restore speech, swallowing, aesthetics and function.
Gurtej Varn (White Coat Financial) - Real Estate Investing Workshop: A Guide for Dentists
This workshop provides dentists with a straightforward introduction to real estate investing. Attendees will learn about buying a home versus rental property investment and gain insights into special mortgage programs and tax incentives. The session will also break down the key differences between commercial and residential real estate to help participants make informed decisions.
By the end of this workshop, attendees will:
Compare the benefits of buying a home versus investing in rental property.
Understand and evaluate special mortgage programs for dentists.
Learn about tax incentives for first-time homebuyers, including credits and grants.
Differentiate between commercial and residential real estate financing and management.