How to Thrive in Any Economy
Gary Takacs, Takacs Consulting

Economic challenges impact dental offices. Gary outlines five specific strategies that will help your practice thrive in any economy.

The “New” Periodontal Disease
Samuel B. Low, DDS, MS, MEd

Periodontitis has entered a new frontier, not only as a major chronic infection but as a disease of inflammation. Determining who is at risk and the corresponding therapy/management is a significant component of effective treatment. Move to a new level of understanding of chronic inflammation and develop successful outcomes.

Managing Dental Erosion
Terence E. Donovan, DDS

The number of patients with extensive loss of tooth structure is increasing. The etiology of loss of tooth structure in most cases is multifactorial, and chemical erosion plays a major role in many patients. This presentation will introduce the concept of erosive tooth wear and address the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of extensive tooth structure loss due to erosion and bruxism.

Mastering Dental Marketing in 2012
Gary Takacs, Takacs Consulting

New patient flow is an important element of a thriving dental practice. Gary will guide you to develop a comprehensive marketing plan that includes specific internal marketing, external marketing, and digital marketing activities.

Incorporating “Quality” Periodontics
Samuel B. Low, DDS, MS, MEd

The dental practitioner is continually challenged in periodontal care with customizing treatment for the restorative patient. Complicating the decision process are the influence of patient esthetic expectations and economic considerations. This presentation will teach you how to unravel the complexities.

Materials for Class V Restorations
Terence E. Donovan, DDS

The incidence of both non–carious cervical lesions and class V carious lesions increases with age. This presentation will discuss controversies related to the etiology of non–carious cervical lesions and discuss indications for restoration of NCCLs.

Etiologic Considerations of Temporomandibular Disorders
Jeffrey P. Okeson, DMD

The role of occlusion as an etiologic factor in temporomandibular disorders (TMD) has been debated for years. This presentation will highlight the scientific evidence related to etiology of TMD, including the role of occlusion. This is a critical issue—dentists are the only healthcare providers trained to change the dental occlusion.

The Future of Dentistry
Charles Blair, DDS

PPO dominance and lack of busyness are top concerns of dentists. New graduates are weighing options as corporations can offer cash, security, and relief from employee headaches. Established dentists see a way to sell without the hassle of finding a buyer. The growth of corporate dental practices is a real risk to our cottage industry. What is best for the future of dentistry? Learn the best options for the traditional practice’s survival.

The Art of Dental Pharmacology: What to Prescribe
Peter L. Jacobsen, PhD, DDS

There is a wide range of oral diseases and multiple medical situations that require drug decisions for appropriate and safe management. This presentation will outline the drugs of choice for oral infections and discuss the various medical conditions where prophylactic antibiotics are required or may be considered.

When Should Occlusal Therapies Be Provided for TMD Patients?
Jeffrey P. Okeson, DMD

This presentation will discuss specific risk factors that make the masticatory structures more vulnerable to TMD. Dr. Okeson will tell how dentists can determine if occlusal changes are needed for TMD patients and when to provide them.

Avoid Coding Errors and Excel in Insurance Administration
Charles Blair, DDS

Coding errors are predictable in today’s dental practice. Learn the top coding errors and how not to make them! You will also receive new, valuable information on some of the “hot” sections of the CDT code. Key strategies can save you time, prevent hassles, and keep you out of jail.

Over–the–Counter Drugs and Dental Products: What to Prescribe
Peter L. Jacobsen, PhD, DDS

Herpes, aphthous, halitosis, gingivitis, natural medicine, pain control, hypersensitivity—all are concerns we see every day in the dental office, and all are manageable with over–the–counter products. The presentation is a fun and entertaining update on diseases and concerns patients have and modes of treatment that are easy for them to access.

Optional Afternoon Session: Service in Developing Countries