Dental Industry Lectures

Dental industry lectures to stir your curiosity.  Mark your calendars!

We are proud to be an AGD approved program provider.  Our quarterly lectures will offer two (2) CE credits.

LECTURE

Wednesday, November 11, 2026
“The Shift: What Perimenopause Means for Us, and Our Patients.”
Speaker: Dr. Tara Abraham, MD, MPH, FACOG, MSCP
Bethesda County Club

Overview
Let’s talk about the thing nobody warned us about. Perimenopause is showing up in our own lives — and in the chair — long before “menopause” ever enters the conversation. This session is a real, no-jargon look at what’s actually going on hormonally, why it hits harder than we expect, and how it shows up in ways we don’t always connect to it (yes, even in the mouth).

What We’ll Cover
~ What perimenopause actually is, and why it can start way earlier than most of us think
~ The symptoms nobody tells you about — sleep, mood, joint aches, and yes, oral health changes too
~ How to spot it in your patients (and maybe in yourself)
~ When it’s worth a conversation with your doctor — and how to have it
~ Real talk on managing energy, focus, and sanity through it

Speaker Bio
Dr. Tara Abraham, MD, MPH, MSCP, FACOG is a board-certified gynecologist, Certified Menopause Practitioner through The Menopause Society, and founder of Dr. Tara Abraham, Gynecology & Wellness, a boutique women’s health practice in Washington, D.C.

With over 15 years of clinical experience, Dr. Abraham is passionate about helping women navigate the often-overlooked transition of perimenopause with evidence-based, individualized care. She is known for translating complex medical research into practical, actionable strategies that empower women to better understand their bodies and advocate for their health.

Dr. Abraham earned her Bachelor of Arts with honors from the University of Chicago, her Master of Public Health from Yale University, and her medical degree from Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine. She completed her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Baystate Medical Center/Tufts University and has conducted research with institutions including the National Institutes of Health, University of Chicago, and Northwestern University. She also completed advanced certification in nutrition through Harvard University.

As a Washingtonian Top Doctor since 2017, Dr. Abraham is a sought-after speaker on perimenopause, menopause, women’s preventive health, and longevity. Her presentations combine the latest scientific evidence with real-world clinical experience, offering audiences practical tools to improve diagnosis, counseling, and treatment during midlife.

Through her concierge practice, Dr. Abraham is redefining women’s healthcare by providing unhurried, personalized care that empowers women to thrive in every season of life.

LECTURE

Wednesday, February 24, 2027
“Oral-Motor & Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders Across the Lifespan.”
Speaker: Gillian Gladstone Teran, MA, CCC-SLP
Bethesda County Club

Overview
Orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMDs) influence oral development, breathing, swallowing, speech, occlusion, and long-term oral health across the lifespan. This presentation will review the underlying causes of OMDs, common clinical signs from infancy through adulthood, and practical screening strategies to help dental professionals recognize when referral is appropriate. By identifying “red flags” of oral motor dysfunction and collaborating with therapeutic and dental specialists, providers can improve treatment outcomes and support long-term oral function.

Speaker Bio
Gillian is a nationally recognized Speech-Language Pathologist and IAOM Board Certified Orofacial Myologist™ with over 15 years of clinical and leadership experience. As Owner and Director of Gladstone Speech, Gillian has become a leading voice in the assessment and treatment of speech, feeding, swallowing, and orofacial myofunctional disorders across all ages in the DC Metropolitan Area.

Throughout her career, she has collaborated closely with public and independent schools, early childhood programs, and medical and dental offices across the DMV — building strong interdisciplinary partnerships and delivering evidence-based care to a diverse range of clients.

Widely regarded for her expertise in oral motor and feeding disorders, Gillian is highly sought after as a mentor, consultant, and presenter. She has trained and advised Speech-Language Pathologists and healthcare providers nationwide, and has formally mentored multiple clinicians pursuing advanced training in oral motor and orofacial myofunctional disorders. She frequently presents to medical, dental, allied, and holistic health professionals on the critical role of oral motor development and function throughout the lifespan.

LECTURE

Wednesday, April 28, 2027
“Efficient Esthetics: Using Composite Resin to Recreate Function and Nature in the Anterior.”
Speaker: Dr. Arthur R. Volker, DDS, MSc, MSEd, FAGD, FACD, DWCMID
Bethesda County Club

Overview
There are multiple scenarios where the clinical outcome of a restoration lies solely in the knowledge and artistic skill of the operator. This course seeks to provide attendees with the knowledge and ability to effectively address anterior cases and do so in a timely and effective manner. Materials and protocols of various anterior techniques will be discussed.

Objectives
~ Gain familiarity with aspects of aesthetic determinants
~ Discuss composite options as well as determinants for matrix selection in the anterior dentition
~ Understand the protocol for direct composite injection molding

Speaker Bio
Dr. Volker graduated from the Columbia University School of Dental and Oral Surgery. He completed a Master’s degree in Prosthodontics and New Technologies from the University of Siena. Additionally, he is in private practice in Sunnyside, New York where he is also the owner of DigiDent Laboratory. Dr. Volker has published multiple articles and textbook chapters. He lectures nationally and internationally on such topics as cosmetic dentistry, minimally invasive dentistry, dental materials and digital dentistry.

PAST LECTURES

04/25/26. “Introduction to Orofacial Pain-The 12th Dental Speciality.” Lecture by Carol Gabriel, DDS, DABOP, FAAOP

02/25/26. “Dermatology for Dentists.” Lecture by Dr. Samantha Toerge

11/219/25. “START NOW: How Pediatric Aligners are Redefining Orthodontics.” Lecture by Dr. Edo Lavi

10/05/25. “How Leaders Build Cultures of Success.” Lecture by Dr. Roya Pilcher

10/05/25. “Stress, Relaxation, and Managing Yourself.” Lecture by Judy Penski, MA DDS

04/09/2025. “Ozempic: How a Weight Loss Drug is Changing Bodies, Hearts, Minds.” Lecture by Lucy McBride, MD

11/13/2024. “Updates on Thyroid Health, Nodules, and Cancer for Dentists and Dental Hygienists.” Lecture by Yasmine Assadipour, MD FACS and Samantha Diamond Rossi, MD

09/25/2024. “Does This Make My Assets Look Fat? Wealth Management Strategies for Women Dentists.” Lecture by Talya Bock, CFP®, ChSNC®, CRPC™

04/03/2024. “Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy: A Whole Body Treatment Approach.” Lecture by Dr. Gabriela A. Van Sickle, PT DPT CFMT WCS

11/29/23. “Utilizing Clear Aligner Therapy in Comprehensive Care”. Lecture by Dr. Nancy Ward, DDS, MAGD

09/20/23. “Beauty Through The Ages”. Lecture by Dr. Maryam Nazemzadeh

04/12/23. “Treatment Planning & Modern Materials for Minimally Invasive Restorative Dentistry.” Lecture by Amelia Orta, DMD, FACP

04/06/22. “Radical Aging for Women.” Lecture by Pamela Peeke, MD

02/02/22. “Risk Reduction in the Practice of Dentistry.” Lecture by Natasha Wesker, Esq

12/01/21. “Diagnosis and Management of Oral Cancer – an Update.” Lecture by Robert Ord, MD, DDS

09/29/21. “The Essential Role of Dentists in the War on Diabetes.” Lecture by Casey Hein, BSDH, RDH, MBA

04/28/21. “Covid-19 and Oral Health.” Dr. Timothy Ricks

02/03/21. “Having it all: Making Your Practice Work for You.Christy Ratcliff, CPA, CVA

12/09/20. “Living Your Sane Self with Boundaries and Peace.” Pamela Brewer, MSW, Ph.D., LCSW-C, LICSW-PIP, LICSW, DCSW

09/30/20.“Implementing Dental Sleep Medicine Into Your Practice.” Lecture by Elias Kalantzis

04/29/20.“Is it Time to Eat Yet?  The Powerful New Science of Living in Natural Circadian Rhythm.” Lecture by Pamela Peeke MD, MPH, FACP, FACSM

02/25/20. “Oral Health and Dental Management for the Pregnant Patient.” Lecture by Dr. Barbara J. Steinberg

11/20/19. “The Tongue Tells the Story.” Lecture by Cheryl Shafer, RDH BS COM

10/02/19. “An Update on Breast Disease Benign, Malignant and In-between: For Self-Care and Professional Development.” Lecture by Dr. Rebecca Evangelista

05/01/19. “The science, or lack thereof, of medical marijuana and any dental implications.” Lecture by Richard L. Wynn, PhD

02/06/19. “The Digestive System: From Gingivitis to the Leaky Gut.” Lecture by Dr. Amri

12/05/18. “Introduction to Laser Dentistry.” Lecture by Dr. Pohlhaus

11/30/22. “Integrative Physical Therapy, Pain, and TMD.” Lecture by Dr. Manny Kim, DPT, PRC

09/28/22. “Heels of Power: Boosting Your Professional Presence and Influence.” Lecture by Dr. Isabel Rambob

10/03/18. “Updates in Head and Neck cancer staging, treatment, radiotherapy design, and multidisciplinary engagement: Radiation Oncologists Partnering with Dentists.” Lecture by Dr. Brandi Page, M.D.

2018. “Best Practices for Managing HR in your Dental Practices.” Lecture by Donna Miracle-Canuel, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, Senior HR Consultant and Lindsay Moore, Senior HR Consultant

04/11/18. “2017 ADA Humanitarian Award.” Lecture by Dr. Usa Bunnag, D.D.S.

12/06/17. “Aesthetic Analysis & Approach to Facial Rejuvenation and the Utilization of Botulinum toxin A in the Practice of Dentistry.” Lecture by Dr. Cheryl Burgess

04/05/17. “Addressing the Six Key Areas of Capital Accumulation and Protection.” Lecture by Ellen D. Tillman, CLU, ChFC, MBA

02/01/17. “Current Topics in Nutrition and Exercise.” Lecture by Tristram Kruger, DDS

12/07/16. “Brain Hygiene: How to Build a Beautiful Brain in Three Months.” Lecture by Dr. Majid Fotuhiu, MD PhD

10/05/16. “Anatomy 101, an Introduction to You.” Lecture by Dr. Joseph Pollack

05/04/16. “Attaining Financial Health throughout your Career.” Lecture by Kris Kornemann, CFP® and Allison McCarty, CFP®, CLTC

02/03/16. “Evaluation & Treatment of the Temporomandibular Joint.” Lecture by Jodi Maron Barth, PT, CCI and Gincy Lockhart Stezar, PTA, CCI

12/02/15. “Getting the Most Out of Internal Marketing.” Lecture by Sue Demske

10/07/15. “Food and Mood: Surprising New Science.” Lecture by Pamela Peeke, MD, MPH, FACP

04/29/15. “Developing Women Leaders in Dentistry.” Lecture by: Distinguished Guest from the ADA, Kathleen O’Loughlin, D.M.D., M.P.H.

10/02/14. “Women’s Health Research.” Lecture by Janine Clayton, MD, and Christine Carter, PhD, MPH

05/07/14. “Hearing and the Professional Ear.” Lecture by S. Jane Kirksey, Au.D., FAAA, ADA, Doctor of Audiology and  Suzanne Noonan, Au.D., CCC-A, FAAA, Doctor of Audiology

04/29/14. “Growing a Thriving & Resilient Dental Practice.” Lecture by Susan Commander Samakow, PCC, CPCC

02/05/14. “Skin Cancers in Dental Patients.” Lecture by Dr. Cheryl Burgess

02/04/14. “Advances in Current Geriatric Dentistry – Learning How To Care For Patients With Alzheimer’s Disease.” Lecture by Dr. Yellowitz, DMD, MPH, FASGD, DABSCD

11/06/13. “Eating Disorders & Your Patients.” Lecture by Laura K. Ratner, LICSW, LCSW-C, BCD

10/02/13. “Botox & Dermal Fillers: Facial Injectables in the World of Dentistry.” Lecture by Gigi Meinecke, DMD, FAGD

02/05/13. “The ABC’s of HPV all the way to Z.” Lecture by Dr. Andre Farquharson

10/02/12. “Slip into Your Skinny Genes: How to Make Groundbreaking New Science Power You to Your Best Mind & Body.” Lecture by Dr. Pam Peeke

05/07/12. “Nutritional Style: A Seasonal Approach to Vibrant Health.” Lecture by Holli Thompson, CNHP, CHHC

05/01/12. “Sex & Health Update for Women.” Lecture by Barbara Steinberg, DDS

03/02/12. “From Waiting Room to Courtroom – How to Avoid Getting Sued.” Lecture by Dr. Robert Fleisher, DDS

02/07/12. “Legal Issues for Women Health Professionals. Women Dentists & Women Divorce Attorneys. Both are associated with pain. How do we keep the client’s coming back?” Lecture by Heather Hostetter Esq.

11/08/11. “The Oral Systemic Link.” Lecture by Virginia Barnes DDS, MS“How To Stay Out Of Legal Trouble.” Lecture by Dr. Scott Gritz, D.D.S.

08/01/11. “Pelvic Health Essentials.” Lecture by Miriam Graham MSPT, MBA

07/29/11. “A Story NOT Silenced by Stage IV Oral Cancer.” Lecture by Eva Grayzel

05/03/11. “Communicating for Success & Leadership in your Practice.” Lecture by Sally J. Cram, D.D.S., MS

03/5/11. “Social Savvy: Understanding and Benefiting From Social Media in Your Personal and Professional Life.” Lecture by David Norton

02/01/11. “Women Oral Health Care Leaders serving our Military in Iraq.” Colonel Colleen Shull, D.D.S.,M.S.

11/02/10. “Your Pelvic Floor, Keeping it Healthy.” Lecture by Miriam Graham MSPT, MBA

09/21/10. “Update on The NIH Women’s Health Initiative (WHI).” Lecture by Phyllis Greenberger

05/04/10. “Facebook, Twitter & MySpace All Grown Up: Why Business Professionals Need Social Media to Succeed and Enhance Their Business.” Lecture by David Norton

02/02/10. “Identity Theft Protection. Is Someone Pretending to be You?” Lecture by Dr. Will Marling

11/03/09. “Women’s Health Update in Cardiology.” Lecture by Dr. Elizabeth Ross

09/22/09. “What’s New in Plastic Surgery with Dental Applications.” Lecture by Dr. Mitch Krieger