The new feature release to Dandy’s Chairside software enables dentists and staffers to practice and explore scanning and ordering workflows without the risk of submitting an actual order. Whether you are a doctor, assistant, or hygienist, you can use this feature to enhance your efficiency and accuracy before working on your first patient.

Dandy’s scan specialists can even access your practice scans and review them to give you extra guidance.  

While Scan Training Mode was built for onboarding with Dandy, the benefits extend past the orientation phase. We suggest using the feature to test the workflows of new treatments you add to your practice (implants, dentures, Clear Aligners, etc), training new hires, and ongoing testing to keep your staff sharp.

For your team to get up to speed, we suggest they practice scanning on models or, better yet, each other. Having to capture the perfect scan while navigating the tip around the human body is easy but best done in dress rehearsal a few times. One lead dentist who works with Dandy, Dr. Rahul Kallianpur of Hudson Dental Co., hosts scanning parties for his staff. They pick a night to stay after hours and practice scanning—they even compete against each other in timed scan races. 

If you partner with Dandy, below are the instructions for Scan Training Mode. If you are not currently a Dandy customer but are interested in taking full advantage of all digital dentistry has to offer, explore our system including real-time lab communication, innovative products like 5-Day Crowns, and our free scanner programs.

How to start Dandy’s Scan Training Mode

1. Make sure your equipment is set up
2. Open up Chairside and make sure your scanner is calibrated
3. Select the doctor’s profile 
4. Select Training Mode at the bottom left of the screen
5. Follow the prompts to start a workflow in Scan Training Mode
6. Submit a training order using your practice model or colleague
7. Enhance your skills by repeating the process.

We believe that Scan Training Mode will significantly benefit your practice, enhancing your team’s intraoral scanning skills and improving workflow efficiency—happy scanning.

The post Become an expert in intraoral scanning and digital dental workflows with Dandy’s Scan Training Mode appeared first on Dandy.

Scripps Rock Dental

Feature 1: Two CTAs in the homepage banner

Notice how the Scripps Rock Dental website has two prominent Call-to-Action buttons that direct users to book an appointment or contact the practice immediately. This is an example of the “Call to Action” (CTA), which directs customers on what to do next, leading toward your desired action and creating a sense of urgency to do it now.

Utilizing CTAs will increase conversion rates by providing immediate, clear options for engagement. With a Call to Action, users are much more likely to follow through instead of delaying until later and, thus, likely forgetting to do so.

Feature 2: Testimonials of satisfied clients

Many of the best dental websites will showcase positive reviews from patients, highlighting their experiences or outcomes. Humans are naturally social creatures, and we take the word of others seriously when making decisions. Whether utilized in static posts or on revolving social media highlights, testimonials are extremely effective at building trust and credibility through social proof, encouraging new visitors to become patients.

Feature 3: Primary navigation

When users visit dental websites, navigation needs to be smooth and easy. Providing a “Services” dropdown menu that lists all treatments offered, with quick links to detailed information pages, is vital. This saves the visitor from the need to scroll endlessly down the page, and greatly enhances the user experience.

Hellotend

Yes, this is an overarching franchise site, but Tend sets the standard for cutting-edge dental website aesthetics.

Feature 1: Video that plays upon homepage load, showing consumer, office, and building trust

One of the easiest ways to hook potential patients is to feature engaging video content that introduces the dental practice, showcases the clean & friendly office environment, and emphasizes first-class patient care. Allowing clients to see the actual office, staff, and satisfied patients will provide a human touch and quickly build a connection, making the practice more relatable and trustworthy.

Feature 2: Enticing popup to explain if insurance covers exams

A well-designed, non-intrusive pop-up that provides information about insurance coverage for exams will help the visitors understand their benefits while lowering the barrier to entry by addressing one of the most common financial concerns upfront.

Feature 3: Value proposition

The best dentist websites often feature some sort of “value proposition,” which provides relevance, value, and differentiation for their office. This value proposition may highlight the practice’s proprietary mobile app that assists with appointment scheduling, checkup reminders, and patient education. This asset demonstrates technological advancement and convenience, which appeals heavily to younger and tech-savvy patients.

SmileLA

Feature 1: Pictures of actual clients with dentists they can expect to work with will bolster trust

Expanding on patient testimonials covered above, another great way to build patient trust with your dental website design is to include authentic images of patients interacting with dentists – showing real results and positive relationships. Featuring actual patients will humanize the practice and build credibility.

Feature 2: Before & After photos build credibility

Many of the best dental websites will feature before-and-after treatment photos that showcase beautiful, successful outcomes. These provide users with visual proof of the practice’s expertise and effectiveness, lowering apprehensions and encouraging new clients by letting them see what’s in store.

Feature 3: Map of location to help clients navigate to your practice

In addition to the standard contact information at the bottom of the page, like office phone number, address, and email, your dental website should feature an embedded interactive map to show the practice’s location. This visual aid makes it easier for new patients to find the office, reducing anxiety about navigation.

First Hill Dental Center

Feature 1: Informational copy helps clients understand what services they can expect, as well as keyword-rich copy that will help site rank for target terms and pull in organic traffic

By including detailed, informative content about each service offered, you have the opportunity to not only teach clients about your offered services but to also enhance your site’s Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and gain more organic web traffic by sprinkling your copy with keyword-rich phrasing.

Feature 2: Blog of helpful information to nurture new customers and loyal returning customers

Maintaining a regularly updated blog is another common thread on the best dentist websites. The articles on dental health, tips for dental hygiene, and practice news will keep patients engaged and informed, enhancing loyalty and retention.

Feature 3: Team page showing bios and photos of the dentists builds trust

While upgrading your dental website design, consider adding comprehensive bios of the dentists, hygienists, and staff, including their qualifications and specialties. This not only showcases the strengths of your team, but builds rapport and trust by introducing the team and making patients feel more comfortable with them.

Dentologie

Feature 1: Great locations pages that help people in different neighborhoods find the best location

If your dental practice offers multiple locations, you should include detailed pages for each practice location including maps, contact information, and services offered. Expanding this section will enhance local SEO (like whenever a user types “dentists near me”) and provide convenient information to your prospective local clients.

Feature 2: About Us page shows how this practice began, bringing a human touch to the practice and building credibility and trust

When building your dental website, consider including a narrative of the practice’s history, mission, and values, with links to professional profiles (like LinkedIn pages) for the dental team. Adding this human element to your practice will strengthen the emotional connection and trust with your customers.

Feature 3: FAQ page answers the burning questions users may have before they even book an appointment

Adding a comprehensive FAQ section can address common concerns and questions about treatments, policies, and procedures. Not only does this make patients feel more informed and confident by reducing uncertainties, it also reduces the need for staff to personally address these questions via phone or email.

Dental websites: Frequently Asked Questions

Why is a website important for dentistry?

A dental website is essential in today’s world to attract new patients by providing information, facilitating communication, and remaining relevant in local search results. If you’re researching how to attract more patients to your dental practice, this is one of the cornerstones of any successful dental practice marketing plan.

What features are most important to include in a dental website?

More than just a modern telephone book listing, your dental website design should include key features like Calls to Action (CTAs), real customer testimonials, service pages, team bios, and SEO-optimized content to bring you to the top of local search results. Adding these features will create an effective and engaging website that brings new clients and retains existing patients.

How can I improve the SEO of my dental website?

Optimize your content with relevant keywords (like “family dentistry” or “dental implants”), as well as local SEO strategies, like including your city name or registering as a verified business with search engines like Google. Create fresh, informative content often to engage visitors and promote a building of backlinks that add reputability to your dental website.

How often should I update my dental website?

You should be updating your dental website at least once each month to keep content fresh, relevant, and engaging for visitors. Consider adding regular blog posts on dental health, patient testimonials, service updates, and any changes to address, phone number, or hours.

What kind of content should I include on my dental website?

The best content to add is that which builds trust and engagement with your visitors and existing clients. Consider adding informative service descriptions, positive patient testimonials, educational blogs, and regularly updated FAQs. These help to create a well-rounded dental website that provides value and improves search engine rankings.

How can I make my dental website more user-friendly?

When considering your dental website design, prioritize easy navigation with a logical organization of content and the use of clear dropdown menus. Ensure that your site is fast, smooth, and responsive on mobile devices and desktops alike. Optimize loading times by compressing images, minimizing plugins, and using caching tools. When used together, these will enhance user experience and make it easier for visitors to find pertinent information and book appointments.

What are the best ways to encourage online reviews for my dental practice?

Encourage reviews by providing exceptional service and asking satisfied patients for feedback. Try sending follow-up emails after appointments, thanking patients, and directing them to leave reviews on Google, Yelp, or your website. Integrate these reviews into your dental website and update them often. This builds social proof and enhances your practice’s online reputation.

How can I use social media to promote my dental website?

One of the easiest ways is to link the social media profiles (e.g. LinkedIn) of your staff in website bios and blog posts. You can also regularly share informative content like dental tips, office updates, and patient testimonials on an office social media page to engage with patients, expand the practice’s reach, and boost traffic to your website.

What are the privacy and security considerations for a dental website?

When designing your website, be sure to implement SSL encryption to secure data transmission between your website and its users, as well as authentication measures to protect patient data and accounts. To meet HIPAA regulations, you will need to obtain patient consent for data collection, as well as provide secure storage & transmission of patients’ electronic health records. Be sure to regularly update software and plugins to limit vulnerabilities.

How can I track the performance of my dental website?

Track your dental website performance with tools like Google Analytics, and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as website traffic, bounce rate, conversion rate, and average session duration. You can then use these data insights to optimize future content, improve user experience, and enhance marketing strategies to make your website more effective.

What should I consider when choosing a web design service for my dental practice?

When choosing a web design service, consider seeking a firm with experience in the dental industry and follow these key tenets:

• Review their portfolio to make sure it aligns with your vision.
• Look for client testimonials to gauge satisfaction and dependability.
• Ensure they thoroughly understand SEO, appointment scheduling modules, and HIPAA compliance practices.

This will all help to construct an engaging, pleasant dental website that drives new customers to your practice.

The post The best dental websites we’ve seen and why appeared first on Dandy.

You probably have social media accounts, but that doesn’t mean you’re using them the right way. Looking for dental social media post ideas? Check out this guide to find out how to attract more dental patients through social media platforms.

Why dentists should use social media marketing to grow their business

The dental industry is competitive. In most places, patients have several dental offices to choose from. One of the best ways to stand out is to connect with your patients on a more personal level.

Dental social media marketing gives you an opportunity to educate your patients, answer questions, and host giveaways. As you build a following and engage with more people, you’ll boost your reputation as a knowledgeable, friendly dentist.

Social media marketing for dentists is also great because it’s affordable. You don’t have to pay for expensive ads or waste countless hours writing slogans and creating graphics — just post consistently.

The best social media platforms for dentists

When it comes to dental social media marketing, there are several platforms to choose from. We’ll discuss the most popular platforms, what type of content does well on them, and what makes them smart choices for social media marketing below.

Facebook

Facebook is one of the oldest social media platforms, and it’s also one of the most widespread. While some social media platforms are aimed at younger audiences, Facebook does an excellent job of attracting a variety of users. It’s also an effective marketing tool because people typically use their real names and pictures on Facebook.

Perhaps the best part of Facebook is the format. Instagram and TikTok are great for short-form content like video clips and graphics, but Facebook is the platform of choice when it comes to written content.

Instagram

Instagram has become increasingly popular over the years, giving users an easy way to share images and videos. You might use Instagram to share a quick educational video about oral hygiene, or you could post a picture to promote a special event or giveaway you’re hosting. Instagram is one of the most popular social media platforms, making it an excellent way to connect with your patients.

TikTok

When it comes to modern social media, TikTok is at the top. TikTok is massively popular throughout the world with billions of users registered. The short-form video format that TikTok uses has proven to be a great way to attract attention.

You could post a TikTok video spotlighting one of your employees, or you can respond to a Google review and turn that into a testimonial video for your dental office. With TikTok, social media ideas for dentists are endless.

Other platforms to consider

If you want to create longer video content, YouTube is one of the best places to post your videos. Whether you’re showing how a procedure is performed or giving potential patients a walk-through of your dental office, you can post your longer videos on YouTube.

While it’s not as popular with older audiences, Snapchat is huge with the younger generation. If you’re looking for dental social media post ideas to reach younger patients, Snapchat can be a great resource.

You needn’t worry about posting on Twitter / X for your patients—if they are on that platform it is not to hear from their dentist.

How to promote your practice on social media

When it comes to promoting your practice on social media, consistency is key. People tend to connect with the brands they see on a regular basis, so make your dental-themed posts a consistent part of your current and prospective patients’ feeds.

If you’re having trouble reaching your local audience, you can use social media advertising to target people in your area. You don’t have to pay for ads to promote your practice on social media, but it can help you build a following when you’re just getting started.

10 social media ideas for dentists

Running a successful social media campaign starts with creating the right content. Effective social media content encourages people to keep reading or watching and check out your profile. If you’re having trouble figuring out what to post, here are a few dental social media post ideas for you.

1. Feature a service or treatment

It’s not uncommon for patients to have questions or concerns about the services and treatments you provide, so highlight some of your treatments and explain them in detail on social media. You can explain how teeth whitening works, how long it takes, and what the potential side effects are. You can also educate your patients about various surgeries and procedures and why they might need them.

Even if a patient isn’t interested in a particular service, you can show them you’re knowledgeable and show your compassion for patients.

2. Post oral hygiene tips

Be part of proactive dental health. How many of your patients only brushing once a day and have no idea where their floss dispenser is? Help better their lives, and their feeling toward you practice by educating your patients about oral hygiene so they can prevent cavities, tooth decay, and gum disease.

Alternatively, you can create a post asking patients for questions about oral hygiene and other dental topics. Answering patient questions is a great way to educate your patients and keep them engaged.

3. Create original content for holidays

There are dozens of dental-themed holidays throughout the year, which means you have several opportunities to create original content for social media. From Dental Assistants Recognition Week to Dental Hygienist Week, there are several holidays you can celebrate with your patients. You can even offer special discounts or small gifts for patients who visit on special occasions.

4. Spotlight your employees

Spotlighting your employees is a great way for your patients to get to know your practice on a personal level. You want patients to view your dental office as a friendly group of people, not a faceless entity. Talking about your employees is a great way to make your practice more approachable.

There are lots of ways to spotlight an employee. You could make a simple graphic with an employee’s name and photo, a few fun facts, and some information about their experience and education. You could also create a quick video to introduce new employees to patients.

5. Run a promotional campaign or giveaway

If you want people to engage with your social media posts, try hosting a giveaway or running a promotional campaign. You can post trivia questions where the correct answer wins a small gift card or an oral hygiene kit. For a simpler solution, you can host giveaways where the winner is decided at random from the comments.

6. Encourage your patients to follow you on social media

Building a loyal following is one of the hardest parts of reaching a large audience on social media. If your patients aren’t following you, you can’t consistently connect with them through social media posts.

Encouraging your patients to follow is one of our favorite social media ideas for dentists. Patients who are following you can like your post to help spread the word, and any patient (or prospective patient) who’s not following you can click the follow button.

7. Create social media posts from your reviews

Does your practice have positive online reviews from patients? Spotlighting reviews are a great way to showcase your practice on social media and show prospective patients that you’re knowledgeable and experienced. Try posting a picture of a review with a quick response to the patient, thanking them for the kind words and choosing your practice.

Showcasing patient reviews can also help encourage new patients to leave a review.

8. Post about what you’ve learned at dental conferences and trade shows

Continuing education is part of being a dentist—new information is always coming out, so you’re never done learning. If you go to dental conferences or trade shows, take notes about some of the important things you’ve learned and the coolest products you’ve seen. Sharing this information shows patients you’re committed to keeping up with the latest trends in dentistry.

9. Highlight other marketing strategies your practice is using

If you’re having trouble with dental social media marketing, try highlighting some of the other marketing strategies you’re using on social media. Perhaps you’ve got a program that you use to reach out and educate the community, or maybe you help provide dental services or toothbrushes for free or at an affordable price. Highlighting your dental marketing ideas can help patients get a better feel for what your practice values.

10. Maintain a consistent posting schedule

Consistency is key when it comes to social media marketing. If you’re not posting on a regular schedule, your patients aren’t going to check back for new content regularly.

Create a schedule for social media posts that you can keep up with. You don’t have to post several times per day to build an audience, but weeks of silence can drive your audience away. Ideally, you should try to post at least two–five times per week on your social media accounts. If you’re having trouble creating enough YouTube videos, short clips are a great way to catch the attention of your patients.

A dental social media calendar for your practice

Are you having trouble deciding how often to post or coming up with dental social media post ideas? We’ve developed this dental social media calendar to help you stick to a consistent posting schedule:

Download Calendar Free

Grow your practice with social media marketing for dentists

Social media marketing is one of the best forms of community outreach—especially if you’re providing valuable information to your patients. You can educate patients about various dental procedures and types of floss and toothbrushes, or you can host giveaways to make sure people in your community have the necessary resources for dental hygiene.

Positioning yourself as a knowledgeable, friendly source can help you maximize the lifetime value of a dental patient. When it comes to social media marketing, focusing on content and consistency is the best way to build an audience. Try our dental social media calendar and see how social media marketing can help grow your business.

Dental Social Media Marketing FAQs

How often should I post on social media for my dental practice?

While consistency is one of the most important factors when it comes to social media marketing, you don’t have to post several times per day to market your practice. We recommend posting at least two–five times per week to keep your audience engaged. You can post as often as 20 times per week, but you don’t want to spam patients with constant social media posts.

What type of social media content do dental patients want to see?

Educating your patients is one of the best ways to create content for your social media accounts. You can compare popular electric toothbrush brands, offer dental hygiene tips, or create a list of symptoms that signify it’s time to visit a dentist. Don’t be pushy or focus on advertising — providing value is the best way to build relationships with patients.

How can I measure ROI from social media marketing?

You can determine your ROI from social media marketing by looking at the total cost of your marketing efforts compared to the returns you received. It can be difficult to determine which patients came from which channels, so you can ask patients how they heard about your practice if you want to figure out how much traffic you’re driving from various social media platforms.

Do I have to pay for social media advertising?

Paid social media marketing is optional. You can invest in paid ads if you’re having trouble reaching prospective patients in your geographic region, but you probably don’t need to pay for advertising if you’re building a following organically. You can also get help from a professional to develop a more polished social media marketing campaign if yours isn’t effective.

The post Dental Social Media Marketing Ideas & Strategies: Everything you need to know appeared first on Dandy.

The keynote presentations are The digital workflow for predictable implant dentistry by Dr. Ankur A. Gupta and The handbook for restorative case acceptance by Dr. Leslie Pasco. You will leave with heightened clinical knowledge and actionable motions to improve your practice’s effectiveness and efficiency. Let’s go deeper into the sessions and the rest of the event to pull out five more reasons to attend the Dandy Digital Summit.

1. You will acquire 2 CE credits throughout the day. One in Implants (code 690) and the other in Practice Management and Human Relations (code 550). 

2. You will learn how technology can help dictate the proper healing time and ability to determine osseointegration beyond simply looking at a radiograph.

3. You will be sent a printable blueprint to share with your staff on how to improve case acceptance.

4. You will learn the one thing dentists do that kills case acceptance and how to avoid it.

5. You will see a live scan demonstration in action!

Bonus: There will be prizes. Who doesn’t love a prize?

Convinced?

See you at the Dandy Digital Summit

This free, virtual, CE-accredited Summit will help your practice make the most of your resources and take advantage of digital dentistry, whether you’re currently digital or looking to become digital soon.

Get 2 free CE credits

Register now to save your seat for the Dandy Digital Summit: The guide to restorative success.

The post 5 reasons to attend the Dandy Digital Summit: The guide to restorative success appeared first on Dandy.

The dental waiting room sets the tone of your practice as well as the mood of the patient as they embark on an (often stressful) appointment. There are many ways to make the front space more inviting and accommodate your patients while they wait for their appointments. It’s all about creating a warm environment and offering the right amenities. If you want to provide a better patient experience, these eight dental office waiting room ideas are a great start.

1. Use technology to your advantage

Using technology to your advantage can help you create a better waiting room experience for patients. You can use electronic intake forms (either on tablets or sent to the patient’s phone) to show you have a modern practice. You can also add a few TVs to your dental waiting room so patients have something to watch while waiting for their services. If you have a tech-savvy person on staff you can even create treatment ads that can run on the TVs.

Technology is a simple way to make your waiting room more welcoming. Clipboards and shared pens are old dentistry; electronic forms are not only a sign of modernity, but they also create efficiency in records. TVs and other forms of entertainment can give patients something to do while they wait, and you can even use TVs to educate patients about various dental hygiene topics or your sleep apnea treatments.

2. Create a welcoming space

In the past, dental office waiting rooms have been awash in that ’90s light green tone. Sterile is good, bland is not, and truly adds to the uneasy feeling some people get when they visit the doctor or dentist. 

Creating an inviting environment is one of the best things you can do to ensure your patients feel comfortable while waiting for an appointment. Dental office decor is a great way to add some color and personality to your waiting room, and you can customize your style to match the personality of your practice.

Ultimately, you want your patients to feel like they can relax in your waiting room and be comfortable during their appointment, so the decor, plants, and furniture you choose are essential. Also, make sure you have plenty of comfortable seating for everyone and use warm lighting to create a more relaxing waiting room environment for patients.

3. Be mindful of wait times

According to the Dandy Dental Study: Patient Experience, wait times are a common cause of patient dissatisfaction. Unfortunately, it’s also difficult for you to tell your patients exactly when you’re going to be available for their appointment. Whether a patient needs a little more time to settle in or your previous appointment started late, wait times are tough to avoid. 

Still, dentists need to be mindful of wait times and do everything possible to minimize them. Your patients don’t want to wait hours for an appointment, especially if they need to return to work or take their child back to school.

There are several ways to reduce patient wait times and keep your patients happy. Sending out reminders can help you ensure your patients arrive on time, or you can offer an incentive for patients who show up early for their appointments. It’s also essential to make sure you’re not taking on more patients than you can handle—that’s one of the easiest ways to increase patient wait times.

Patients don’t want to sit around in your waiting room for hours, so be mindful of wait times so they don’t have to.

4. Offer free Wi-Fi

Most people have smartphones, so they can catch up on emails, check social media, and browse the internet anywhere. While most mobile providers offer unlimited data plans, many people don’t have unlimited data. People with unlimited data may still have restrictions and prefer to connect to a wireless network. Or you could be in a cellular dead zone.

When you offer free Wi-Fi in your dental office waiting room, you can make sure your patients have constant internet access without using their cellular data. Your patients are already spending money to visit your practice, so offering free Wi-Fi is an excellent way to reward them for caring for their teeth.

Offering free Wi-Fi is a simple way to keep patients occupied (read: be less frustrated by wait times) and it’s easy to set up. If you already use a wireless network in your dental office, you can set up a guest network that your patients can use while they’re in the waiting room. You may want to hire an IT professional to set up the network for you. Providing free Wi-Fi is also a good way to keep patients connected so they can check their email and confirm appointment details.

Overall, free Wi-Fi isn’t just a “nice to have” anymore, it is expected by patients.

5. Offer complimentary water, coffee, and tea

Patients may want something to drink while sitting in their dentist’s waiting room. If you want to create a more welcoming space for your patients, offer complimentary coffee and tea they can enjoy before or after their appointment. Some patients may not want to drink coffee or tea right before an appointment, but they can still enjoy a warm beverage on their way out. Setting up a water dispenser in your waiting room is also a good idea, allowing patients to hydrate or rinse their mouths after drinking coffee or tea.

Coffee and tea might sound strange in a dental office waiting room, but it’s a great way to keep your patients warm and comfortable while they’re waiting for an appointment. When you set up your coffee and tea station, make sure you’re also offering cups and straws, cream and sugar, and anything else people may want with their coffee or tea. 

6. Have a welcoming and friendly office manager

A good dental office manager can make a world of difference when it comes to creating a warm environment for patients. Dental office managers make sure the front office is running smoothly, which is exactly what you need to keep your patients happy. The right office manager can maintain positive relationships with patients, optimize workflows, train staff to improve the patient experience, and oversee day-to-day processes.

Hiring a friendly and welcoming office manager who can improve the patient experience can transform your dental office. Qualifications are important, but you want someone with a personality that makes your patients feel welcome.

7. Add patient marketing materials

Dentists’ waiting rooms are the perfect place to educate patients about dental hygiene and various types of dental products. If you don’t have patient marketing materials in your waiting room, consider adding them so your patients have something interesting to read. You can educate your patients, talk about popular dental products like Clear Aligners, and advertise the treatment options available at your practice.

Partners like Dandy offer professional marketing materials (if you are a customer, ask your Account Manager about our Clear Aligners brochure) but also, creating your own patient marketing materials is easy and there are several printing services you can use.

Patient marketing materials offer several benefits. Providing something for patients to read keeps them entertained—even if it’s not an entertainment magazine. Patients also get a chance to learn more about your practice and the services you offer, which may encourage them to ask about those services.

8. Create a stress-free environment

It’s easy to feel stressed out when you’re waiting for an appointment at the dentist or doctor—especially for patients with more serious dental problems. You don’t want patients to feel overwhelmed and anxious in your waiting room, so create a stress-free environment. Avoid overly negative marketing materials and posters and keep decor warm and inviting. You should also ensure, if you play music in your waiting room, that it is soft so patients can relax while they wait. Music really sets a tone.

Stress is a natural part of going to the dentist for a lot of people, but that doesn’t mean they have to feel stressed in the dentist’s waiting room. Your staff can also help patients feel more welcome by greeting them when they arrive and letting them know when you’re ready for their appointment.

For patients who get incredibly anxious or stressed when visiting the dentist, you can use dental anxiety management techniques to help them calm down and relax before their appointment.

Creating a better patient experience in your dental waiting room

The patient experience is an essential part of managing your dental office, and there are several things you can do to create a warm and inviting environment for patients. Redecorating your waiting room and finding a good dental office manager can help your waiting room feel more welcoming. You can also offer free Wi-Fi for entertainment and have intake forms be filled out on your patients’ own phones to create a positive experience for all.

With a little work, you can make your dental waiting room a better place for your patients. Pair that with Dandy’s services to streamline operations, maximize efficiency, and boost patient satisfaction at your practice. The next step to wowing your patients is just a quick call away.

The post 8 dental office waiting room ideas appeared first on Dandy.

Shopping for gifts can be tricky. If you’re having trouble thinking of dental assistant gifts, don’t sweat it! We’ve got you covered with 10 great gift ideas to make their week extra special. From personalized items that show just how well you know them to quirky, dental-themed surprises, these gifts are sure to put a smile on their face.

When is Dental Assistant Week?

Dental Assistants Recognition Week (DARW) takes place during the first full week of March, as designated by the American Dental Assistants Association (ADAA). This special week serves to acknowledge and honor the dedicated efforts of dental assistants. This year, in 2024, the theme is ‘100 Years Supporting Oral Health,’ celebrating 100 years of the ADAA.

Dental Assistants Week is the perfect opportunity to have some fun and show appreciation to your amazing dental assistants. Parties and gifts are always appreciated. If you haven’t started planning a Dental Assistants Week celebration yet, now’s your chance to kick things off.

Personalized gifts for dental assistants

Your dental assistants deserve recognition for their hard work, and gifts are a great way to show your appreciation. Personalized gifts, in particular, are a fantastic way to show you care enough to go the extra mile.

Here are some of our favorite personalized gift ideas for Dental Assistants Week:

Engraved Yeti tumblers

Everyone needs a good travel mug—especially coffee and tea drinkers. Engraved Yeti tumblers make an excellent gift for dental assistants. These tumblers are insulated to keep your drinks hot, so your dental assistants can sip on their morning beverage of choice without it getting cold. 

Personalizing a Yeti tumbler is easy. Just head to their website and choose between different pre-made designs, your own custom design, or a simple text monogram. Whatever you end up picking out, your dental assistants will thank you for making each morning a little better and think of you every time they enjoy a nice warm beverage. Bonus: You’ll never confuse your mug with theirs.

Personalized travel pouch or cosmetic bag

Travel pouches and cosmetic bags are great gifts for the busy dental assistant who spends their down time on the move.

Cosmetic bags are great for keeping mascara, eyeliner, brushes, and other beauty essentials on hand. Travel pouches, on the other hand, are perfect for small items like phone chargers, medications, deodorant, and hand sanitizer. 

You can customize a travel pouch or cosmetic bag with the logo of your dental office, the name of your dental assistants, or any other special message you want to add. You can even fill a travel pouch or cosmetic bag with a few small items to make your gift even more personal!

Allow them to choose their own gift

Some stores and websites offer the option for your dental assistants to select their own gifts within a predetermined budget. For example, services like Loop & Tie, offer them the flexibility to choose what they want from a collection of thoughtfully curated gifts. From chocolates and ceramics to planners and perfumes, prices start at just $25 and go up to $500.

This is an excellent alternative to gift cards if you’re looking for something that feels a bit more special. That being said, gift cards are never a bad gift idea either! If you know of a store or restaurant your dental assistants frequent, get them a gift card to that place. It’s a thoughtful way to treat them and save them from spending their own hard-earned money.

Dental gifts for Dental Assistants

Personalized gifts are great, but dental-themed gifts are always a hit with dental assistants. From high-quality scrubs to fun little knick-knacks that remind them of the great work they do, there are plenty of ways to let your dental assistants know just how much you appreciate them. 

Find a charming selection of dental-themed dental assistant gifts below:

Custom Croc Jibbitz (charms)

Do your dental assistants wear Crocs at work? Crocs are a popular choice for dental and healthcare workers because they’re simple and practical. Even better, Crocs are completely customizable. 

Jibbitz are tiny charms designed to add a personal touch to your Crocs and come in a variety of different styles, including teeth, toothbrushes, dental instruments, and more. Pick up a few dental-themed Jibbitz for your dental assistants, so they can make their work shoes uniquely their own. It’s a great way to help them show off their personal style in the dental office!

Embroidered FIGS scrubs

Practical gifts are always an excellent choice, and you can’t go wrong with a new set of scrubs for your dental assistant. 

FIGS is one of the biggest clothing companies for healthcare professionals, with tons of scrubs and other products available. Not only are FIGS scrubs a great gift for dental assistants, but they can also be embroidered. 

When you shop on the FIGS website, you can embroider scrub tops, jackets, caps, and pants for a small additional fee. A fresh set of embroidered scrubs will show your dental assistants just how much you appreciate all the hard work they do.

Wisdom tooth claw clip

If you’ve been scrolling through TikTok lately, there’s a good chance you’ve stumbled upon the viral wisdom tooth claw clip. With a shiny, pearlescent base and a bold blue outline, this nifty accessory is designed to keep your hair out of your face but look like a wisdom tooth. It’s the perfect gift for dental assistants who want to showcase their personal style and celebrate their profession. It’s a great conversation starter, too!

How your office can celebrate Dental Assistants Week

Dental Assistants Week doesn’t just have to be about gifts. While some people appreciate charming trinkets and useful presents, others prefer memorable experiences.

If you find yourself struggling to come up with the perfect gift, or if your dental assistants aren’t keen on receiving gifts, there are plenty of other heartfelt ways to make them feel cherished at work.

From office parties to handwritten notes from patients, these are some of our favorite ideas:

Office party

Office parties are one of the best ways to show your dental assistants how much you appreciate them. Work can be stressful, so it’s nice to take a break and relax from time to time. 

To get the party started, consider treating your staff to some delicious food and drinks. If your team is up for it, you can also add some music or entertaining activities to the mix. You can even host your office party at an offsite location, like a favorite local bar or restaurant—it is always nice to get out of the workspace to let loose. Want to kick things up a notch? Think about if your staff like to go bowling, rollerskating, or mini-golfing. Many dental practices are closed on Fridays and there is normally more availability for reservations and activities on a Friday afternoon.

Lunch delivery

Lunch can be a big expense for dental assistants, especially if they prefer going out to lunch instead of eating in the office. Even if your dental assistants bring their own lunch from home, everybody enjoys a treat now and then. Paying for lunch delivery is a great idea if you want to show your staff how much they’re appreciated.

Dining out or ordering in can really add up, which is why many dental assistants tend to skip it. Treating everyone to lunch or organizing a catered meal is a fantastic idea–your team will appreciate it more than you know.

Handwritten notes from your patients

While everyone loves attending a good party or having their lunch paid for, sometimes it’s the little things that make the biggest difference. Remind your dental assistants why they chose to work in the dental industry with handwritten notes from your loyal patients. 

Sending handwritten notes is a truly heartfelt gesture. Show your dental assistants the positive impact they have on both the community and your dental office. When they realize how many people recognize and appreciate their exceptional work, it’s sure to make them smile.

Highlight your team in your waiting room and on social media

Recognition can go a long way when you want to make someone feel appreciated. If you want to celebrate Dental Assistants Week with a special surprise for your team, highlight them on social media or celebrate them with decorations in your dental office waiting room. 

Recognition shouldn’t be the only gift you give your team—an additional small gift will show them how much their hard work means.

Celebrating Dental Assistants Week with gifts

Dental assistants play an essential role in every dental office, keeping equipment clean and providing dentists with the support they need to do their jobs. With Dental Assistants Recognition Week coming up, now is a good time to start thinking about how you’re going to celebrate your team of dental assistants whether it be a celebration or a gift (or both).

Remember, these ideas are just a start—you know your dental assistants better than anyone else. Whatever you choose, take the time to find a nice gift to show your dental assistants just how much you value their hard work and dedication.

The post Gift ideas for dental assistants they’ll actually love appeared first on Dandy.

1. You have the opportunity to acquire 2 CE credits throughout the day. One in practice management and human relations (code 550) and the other in oral medicine, oral diagnosis, and oral pathology (code 730). 

2. You will explore wellness scans—the latest trend in co-discovery—which have the opportunity to improve the health of every one of your patients as well as the revenue of your practice. 

3. It is free! And we scheduled it on Friday because many dental practices don’t hold Friday hours regularly so hopefully you are free as well.

4. There will be eye-opening charts like this one showing insights into the mind of the modern dental patient:

5. You will hear the secret of how a general dentist improved his case acceptance from 60% to 90%.

Bonus: There will be prizes. Who doesn’t love a prize?

Convinced?

See you at the Dandy Digital Summit

This free, virtual, CE -accredited summit will help your practice make the most of your resources and take advantage of digital dentistry, whether you’re currently digital or looking to become digital soon.

Get 2 free CE credits

Register now to save your seat for the Dandy Digital Summit: The peak of practice efficiency.

The post 5 reasons why you should attend the Dandy Digital Summit appeared first on Dandy.

It is a question that we at Dandy ask ourselves daily as we think of how we can enhance patient experience at the dental practices of our partners.

We thought it was high time to get answers.

Dandy partnered with a third-party market research firm to candidly uncover the wants, needs, and expectations of the modern US adult dental
patient. We took the findings and consulted some of the top minds in dentistry to put the data into perspective and add actionable advice based

on the insights. We hope that the Dandy Dental Study: Patient Experience will give you valuable observations that you can use to bolster your practice and improve the lives of your patients. 

“All dentists have the clinical knowledge to be great doctors, but what is often missed in dental school and training is how to deliver exceptional patient experience,” says Dr. Jeremy Wano, the Head of Customer Experience Programs at Dandy. While compassion is certainly part of the recipe, that’s just scratching the enamel, there is so much more into having patients feeling fulfilled with their relationship with you… 

The Dandy Dental Study: Patient Experience plunges deep into what those in your care are really looking for from practice operations to digital dentistry and precisely how they seek it out.”

Broadly we will look at:

• What causes patient affinity and dissatisfaction.
• How to retain your current patients.
• How to attract new patients.

Along the way we will delve into specifics like:

• How often patients change dentists, and what are the main causes.
• What are the simplest ways to enhance patient experience.
• What factors do prospective patients look for in a new practice and how do they do their search.
• Our exclusive research certainly confirmed some notions we all have had—which is helpful—but it also uncovered some perspectives that aren’t (yet) universally ascribed to.

For instance which of the following do you think has the highest correlation with patients’ appreciation of their dental practice?

A. Same or next-day appointments 
B. Night or weekend hours
C. Minimal waiting room time
D. Convenient location to them

The answer was resoundingly: C. minimal wait time. While many practices stretch on nights and weekends to provide convenient hours for their day-working patients, it turns out they are fine coming during the day, they just want truly to be seen at the scheduled appointment time. Instead of asking the staff to work a late Thursday or to come in on the weekend, you can achieve more by scheduling smarter during normal operating hours. 

Dandy knows that satisfied patients are more than just good business; you entered the medical field to help people and communities. But if any dentist can fill a cavity, which aspects of your practice set you apart? Why should a patient choose you over the competition? If keeping the operatory lights on means retaining existing patients and growth is a matter of attracting new ones, what is the secret amalgam for great patient experience? We at Dandy believe that you treat the patient as much as the tooth.

You are in the mouth of a patient but how do you get into their head?

Enter the Dandy Dental Study: Patient Experience.

With the help of Isurus Market Research, we conducted a survey of adults across the US, at the heart of which was a central question: “What do patients care about most?”

We polled a wide swath of adults in the US who attend the dentist with some form of regularity. Respondents represented a diversity of ages, locations, backgrounds, genders, and incomes, providing detailed information about–but not limited to–perceptions of their dentist, methods by which they find and select a doctor, and experiences with both restorative and elective procedures. A total of 600 individuals aged 26-66+ were polled, answering over 40 questions using a Likert scale ranging from 1 (poor) to 5 (excellent). All respondents to the survey had undergone a dental procedure within the last 10 years. Results were subjected to statistical analysis, ensuring that the data presented is not only salient but durable.

Key takeaways from the Dandy Dental Study: Patient Experience.

Attracting new patients:

• 76% of people looking at online reviews seek information on location and insurance
• 1-in-4 look for modern dental technology in the reviews
• Patients who experienced an intraoral scanner were 12% more likely to recommend a practice to those who had traditional dental impressions

Retaining existing patients:

• 93% of patients who said their procedures were explained well, rated their dentist 5-out-of-5
• Patients who experienced the intraoral scanner perceived to have 35% less time in the chair than expected to those who had traditional impressions
• More than 50% of patients who underwent an elective procedure were prompted to do so by their dentist’s suggestion or recommendation

Patient dissatisfaction:

• 8% of adult US dental patients only go to the dentist when something is wrong
• 72% of 26-35 year-olds have switched dentists within the past 5 years
• On average patients switch dentists every 7 years

50+ more learnings are in the eBook linked below.

Our hope is that, by furnishing you with data-driven insights into what patients care about most, you can make smarter, more dynamic, more compassionate decisions about how to grow your business and position yourself at the forefront of patient care. Dive into the Dandy Dental Study: Patient Experience.

The post What do dental patients care about the most? appeared first on Dandy.

Ask the dental lab the right questions

When you’re first considering a dental lab, there are a number of key questions you should ask to get a sense of their quality and capabilities and how that relates to your practice. These questions include:

Do you use ADA-compliant materials?

This is important to ensure that your patients are receiving safe and effective care.

What is your clinical support like?

Do you have a team of experienced technicians who can help you with difficult cases? Remember the dental lab is not just your manufacturer, they are your partner in treatment.

What is your quality control process?

How do you ensure that your products are consistently high-quality? Ask specifically about how they test their output and technicians and what they do if there is an issue.

How is your lab adapting to new dental technology and digital dentistry?

It’s important to find a lab that is willing to embrace new dental technologies and techniques so that your practice keeps up in modern treatment.

Do you accept digital impressions?

If you’re using digital impressions—or planning to to in the future—you’ll need to find a lab that can accommodate your workflow.

Who is designing the restoratives?

If the lab does accept digital impressions, who is designing the restoratives? Are they dentists or technicians?

Do you provide training services?

Aligning with your lab’s process and learning the lingo is important as communication is key for you and anyone in your practice who will interact with the lab. And if you’re new to digital dentistry, you may want to find a lab that offers specific training in the modern way so you can get up to speed quickly.

What are your turnaround times and pricing?

Make sure you understand the lab’s turnaround times and pricing so that they work for your practice’s operations and patients’ budgets/your margin.

What type of lab management software do you use?

Make sure that the lab management software is something you can adopt at your practice and is intuitive for every member of your staff who will utilize.

What materials do you work with?

Most dentists have a range of patients with different insurances, budgets, and needs, try to find a lab that has as options that reflect your patient-base.

What products do you offer?

Don’t assume that all labs offer the same portfolio of products and appliances (see Dandy’s Product Guide here) or you may be in too deep before you learn that you’ll have to source a partial denture elsewhere.

Consider your needs from a dental lab

Once you’ve asked the right questions, you need to consider your specific needs. What type of work do you typically send to the lab? How important is turnaround time to you? What is your budget for margins? Once you know your needs, you can start narrowing down your options.

Get dental lab recommendations from peers

Talk to other dentists to see if they have any recommendations for dental labs. They may be able to give you some insights into the different labs in your area or national digital labs.

Local dental lab vs. national dental lab—which is better for you?

There are two main types of dental labs: local labs and national labs. Local labs are typically smaller and more specialized, while national labs are larger and have a wider range of capabilities and proficiencies. Typically local labs have offered more personal relationship-building, but as modernity upgrades communication, national labs are improving dentist-lab interaction. Larger labs tend to have more modern technology, better quality control, and may also be able to offer you lower prices, as they have the advantage of economies of scale.

Specialty dental labs

There are also a number of specialty dental labs that focus on specific types of work. For example, there are labs that specialize in dentures, dental implants, and orthodontics. If you decide to go with a local lab, it is important to also seek a speciality lab or two for the mores complex work you will need to be done. The downfall of this route is juggling multiple relationships.

Working with Dandy’s digital dental lab

Dandy was created for the digital lab workflow and is the only end-to-end digital partner in dentistry. Dandy combines some of most advanced technology in the world with best-in-class technicians to create quality, precision, and speed unparalleled in the industry. Along with a robust portfolio of products and appliances, Dandy’s proprietary software and system increase our dental practice partners’ efficiency and revenue. Plus we’ll give you an intraoral scanner for free. Contact us with any questions you may have as you search for the best dental lab for your practice.

The post How to choose the best dental lab for your practice appeared first on Dandy.

If you are considering attending a convention we strongly urge you to do so, being a dentist—especially a head of a practice—can be an isolating job despite interacting with patients and staff constantly; these conferences not only allow you to rub elbows with colleagues, you can earn CE credits and learn about the latest tools and practices. Oh, and we’ll be at many of these dental conventions—please stop by our booth to learn about our end-to-end digital dentistry offerings.

Information is subject to change and we will refresh regularly. If you can’t easily find the convention you are looking for try using the find in browser function on your device.

Meet the Dandy team!

We’ll be a dental conference in a city near you. We’d love to see you there!

See events

ADA’s 2024 SmileCon (New Orleans)

New Orleans, LA

Ernest N. Morial Convention Center
900 Convention Center Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70130

Hours:

October 16, 1:00pm – 5:00pm – Registration
October 17, 7:00am – 5:30pm
October 18, 7:00am – 4:30pm
October 19, 8:30am – 8:00pm

General Information:

This year, the American Dental Association’s flagship convention, SmileCon will be taking place in fabulous downtown New Orleans, Louisiana–one of the US’ most vibrant, most culturally significant cities. At the heart of SmileCon is the exhibit hall AKA Dental Central where attendees will find experiential learning opportunities, demos of the latest products and tech, fun events, and myriad opportunities to network and connect alongside resources for exploring New Orleans’ world-class food, drink, and fun. At SmileCon, expect industry-leading speakers, cutting-edge hands-on activities, and exclusive features including TED Talk-like sessions called DENT Talks™, opportunities to connect with speakers at Lunch C.H.A.T.s, Botox training courses, and a Women in Dentistry Leadership Series.

CE Information:

SmileCon has many opportunities to earn CE credits, highlighting wellness, innovation, and relicensure.

Attendee Registration Information and Link:

Registration is open

Dandy Booth Number: 804

Mid-Continent Dental Congress

October 24-25, 2024

St. Louis, Missouri

St. Louis Union Station

1820 Market Street, St. Louis, MO 63103

Hours:

October 24, 8:00am – 4:30pm
October 25, 8:00 am – 5:00pm

General Information:

The Mid-Continent Dental Congress is one of the Midwest’s premier dental conventions hosting over 30+ speakers, 100+ exhibit booths, and 2500+ dental professionals over two days in historic, vibrant St. Louis. Attendees can look forward to industry-leading CE courses and hands-on workshops as well as fun networking events featuring music from St. Louis’ own Vote For Pedro. The MCDC Meeting app is available for both Apple and Android devices for scheduling and tracking CE. Held in historic St. Louis Union Station, this conference offers an experience that can’t be found anywhere else including an on-site Aquarium, 200-foot ferris wheel, mini golf, mirror maze, ropes course, restaurants, and more! Show your MCDC badge to receive 20% off at many local attractions.

Note: The dress code is business casual.

CE Information:

See the schedule here.

Attendee Registration Information and Link:

Registration is open, discounts before September 26 are available.

Dental students can register for free!

“Family of registered dentists who are not in the dental field may register at no charge and attend events as their guest. Family must register prior to convention; onsite family registrations are not offered.” (Source: MCDC Site)

Dandy Booth Number: 212

Greater New York Dental Meeting

Meeting dates: November 28 – December 3, 2025
Exhibit dates: November 30 – December 3, 2025

New York City, New York

Jacob K. Javitz Convention Center
11th Avenue between 35th and 39th Streets, New York, NY 10001

Hours:

Exhibit Floor Hours:
Sunday, December 1st- December 4th – 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Wednesday, December 4th – 9:30 AM – 3:00 PM

General Information:

Sponsored by the Second District Dental Society and the New York County Dental Society, the 100th Annual Greater New York Dental Meeting is one of the largest conferences for dental professionals in the United States. Over 30,000 healthcare professionals, over 1600 technical exhibits, and 600 exhibitors converge on Manhattan’s West Side for five days of lectures, events, speakers, and exhibitions of the latest tech, not to mention an opportunity to explore the “greatest city in the world” at the beginning of the Winter holiday season. New to GNYDM in 2023 is the greatly expanded World Implant Expo, Annual Global Orthodontic Conference, 3D Printing Conference, Oral Health Symposium, Pediatric Summit, Women’s Program, Public Health Program, Special Needs programs and Dental Laboratory Education. 

More helpful FAQ here.

CE Information:

Search for CE credit courses here.

Verify your 2023 CE credits here.

Dandy Product Showcase

To be announced

Registration Information and Link:

There is no registration fee at the New York Dental Meeting. Pre-registration is open.

Dandy Booth Number: 1716

Rocky Mountain Dental Convention

January 23-25, 2025
January 22-24, 2026
January 21-23, 2027

Denver, Colorado

Colorado Convention Center, 700 14th St, Denver, CO 80202

Hours:

Information from 2024:
Expo Hall: 10:00am-6:00pm

General Information:

The Rocky Mountain Dental Convention (RMDC) is one of the largest gatherings of dental professionals in the Rocky Mountain region. Attendees will be able to attend various educational sessions, take part in interactive exhibits and hands-on workshops, and network with industry peers. Check back here as the convention approaches for more information!

CE Information: 

From 2024: The Rocky Mountain Dental Convention offers up to 18 hours of continuing education credit 

More CE Information here. 

Attendee Registration and Information:

Registration is not yet open, but check back here for more links/details!

Dandy Booth Number: TBD

Yankee Dental Congress

January 30 – February 1, 2025

Boston, Massachusetts

Boston Convention and Exhibition Center
415 Summer St.
Boston, MA 02210

Hours:

To be announced

General Information: 

Sponsored by The Massachusetts Dental Society in cooperation with the dental associations of Connecticut, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont, The Yankee Dental Congress is New England’s largest dental event. The convention offers a wide variety of CE opportunities and demonstrations of innovative dental tech. Check back here for more information as it becomes available!

CE Information:

Information from 2024: See general CE information here

The Yankee Dental Congress offers up to 30 hours of continuing education credit.
Continuing Education Link, but this is subject to change, so check back for more information!

Attendee Registration and Information:

Register here

Dandy Booth Number: TBD

Utah Dental Association Annual Convention

2025 dates and hours to be announced

Salt Lake City, Utah

Calvin L. Rampton Salt Palace Convention Center
100 S W Temple
Salt Lake City, UT 84101

General Information:

From 2024: Hosted by the Utah Dental Association, the UDA Annual Convention is one of the largest gatherings for dental professionals in the American West. This two-day event offers a wide range of educational opportunities, including workshops and exhibits that highlight the latest trends and developments in the field of dentistry. Attendees will have the chance to network with colleagues and learn about the latest tech advances as well as attend presentations from industry leaders about the future of dental technology, practice management, and more. Remember that Utah is home to some of the world’s finest skiing and snowboarding, so plan accordingly.

In addition, on February 2, the UDAAC will feature a special event hosted by none other than Dandy, giving attendees a peek behind the curtain into our 30,000-square-foot flagship dental lab!

CE Information:

TBD

Registration Information and Link:

TBD

Dandy Booth Number: TBD

Chicago Dental Society Midwinter Meeting

February 20-22, 2025

Chicago, Illinois

McCormick Place West
2301 S King Dr.
Chicago, IL 60616

Hours:

To be announced

General information: 

Sponsored by the Chicago Dental Society, the 16oth The Chicago Dental Society Midwinter Meeting bills itself as one of the top three dental meetings in the US, and one of the top 20 conventions of any kind in Chicago. Each year, more than 600 companies participate. More information will be available as the convention draws closer. Registration will open November 1, 2024. 

CE Information:

All workshops and lectures must be selected and registered-for in advance.

In 2024 the Chicago Dental Society Midwinter Meeting offered up to 20 hours of CE credit.

“CE credits are specified in the course description. Credits range from 1.5 for short courses, 3 credits for longer courses and 3 to 6 credits for workshops. You can also visit the Dental Student Scientific Posters in the Exhibit Hall to earn 1 CE hour credit per day for a total of 3 hours across the entire event.” (Source: CDS Site) Click here to see general CE validation information

Attendee Registration Information and Link:

(open Nov 1) Register here

From 2024 Meeting: “As a special incentive, CDS member dentists (Category A attendees) and dental team members who they register, can purchase a special $275 per person lecture package. This offer is only available through December and is for lectures only; workshops are not included. The package can be purchased for $290 per person in January and will not be offered in February. Lectures must be selected in advance but may be modified at a later date after purchase. Another special registration incentive is the Buy 3 = 1 Free program. For every three paid registrations you register, the fourth registration is free.”  (Source: CDS Site)

Dandy Booth Number: TBD

Thomas P. Hinman Dental Meeting

March 21-23, 2024

Atlanta, Georgia

Georgia World Congress Center
285 Andrew Young International Blvd NW
Atlanta, GA 30313

Hours:

(Subject to change)

March 21

Registration Hours
7:30am – 5:00pm

Exhibit Hall Hours
9:30am – 5:00pm

Hinman Eatery Hours
11:00am – 3:00pm

Table Clinics
10:00am – 1:00pm, 2:00pm – 5:00pm

Keynote Session ft The Evasons Mentalist Duo and Telepathists
5:30pm

March 22

Registration Hours
7:30am – 5:00pm

Table Clinic Hours
10:30am – 1:30pm, 3:00pm – 6:00pm

Hinman Eatery Hours
11:00am – 3:00pm

Exhibit Hall Hours
9:30am – 6:00pm

March 23

Registration Hours
7:30am – 4:00pm

Hinman Eatery Hours
10:00am – 2:00pm

Table Clinic Hours
10:00am – 1:00pm

Exhibit Hall Hours
9:30am – 3:00pm

General Information: 

Sponsored by the Hinman Dental Society non-profit, the Hinman Dental Meeting is notable for being one of the largest conventions in the Southeast, with Southern hospitality on full display. Excess revenue from the convention is invested in the form of scholarships to individuals and institutions that foster dental education. To date, the Hinman Dental Society has provided more than $10 Million in funding. A party called Hinman’s Night Out is also on offer, but attendees must be registered in advance.

CE Information:

All courses and events require advance registration.

A full course listing can be found here

Hinman CE information

The Thomas P. Hinman Dental Meeting offers up to 24 hours of continuing education credit. Virtual CE opportunities are also available with a list of classes here.

Attendee Registration/Link: 

Register here.

Disability-related accommodations:“In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, we will make all reasonable efforts to accommodate persons with disabilities at the Meeting. Please submit requests no later than February 28, 2024 to Lynn Leidel at lleidel@hinman.org or call 404-231-1663. Flying to Hinman? The TSA Cares program can simplify travel for attendees with special needs.” (Source: HDM Site)

Dandy Booth Number and Information: 4327

Midwest Dental Conference

April 11–14 2024

Kansas City, Missouri

Sheraton Crown at Hotel Center
2345 McGee St.
Kansas City, MO 64108

and

Westin Crown Center
1 E. Pershing Rd.
Kansas City, MO 64108

Hours:

Note: This information is approximated and is subject to change. Check back here for more information as it becomes available!

April 11

Registration Desk Hours
7:00am – 5:00pm

Exhibition Hall Hours
8:00am – 5:00pm

Welcome Luncheon
12:00pm – 1:00pm

CE Sessions
1:00pm – 5:00pm

April 12

Registration Desk Hours
7:00am – 5:00pm

Exhibition Hall Hours
8:00am – 5:00pm

Opening Keynote Speaker
8:30am – 10:00am

CE Sessions
1:00pm – 5:00pm

President’s Reception
5:30 – 7:00pm

April 13

Registration Desk Hours
7:00am – 5:00pm

Exhibition Hall Hours
8:00am – 4:00pm

Keynote Speaker
8:30am – 10:00am

CE Sessions
10:00pm – 4:00pm

Evening Social Event
6:00pm – 8:00pm

April 14

Continental Breakfast
8:00am – 10:00am

Closing Keynote Speaker
9:00am – 10:00am

CE Sessions
10:00am – 12:00pm

Closing Luncheon
12:00pm – 1:00pm

General Information:

Sponsored by Access Family Care Medical and Dental Clinics, The Midwest Dental Conference is a four-day annual event featuring 22 speakers, 28 sessions, 2 hands-on workshops, 3 social events, and more than 12 class reunions. The convention is held in two easily accessible locations (Sheraton Kansas City Hotel at Crown Center and Westin Crown Center) connected by a pedestrian skybridge. additionally, there are special social events for which you can register here.

CE Information:

The Midwest Dental Conference offers up to 21 hours of continuing education credits.

“…At the end of the conference you will be able to visit the MDC CE website to enter your codes for your CE verification letter.” (Source: MDC Site)

Attendee Registration Information and Link:

Register here

A guest and/or spouse may be registered for a fee. Certain lectures and Hands-On Workshops may require additional pre-registration and additional fees. There is NO Exhibit Hall-only registration.

Dandy Booth Number: 211

New Orleans Dental Conference

2024: (Will be partnering with SmileCon in 2024, and will return with their own conference in 2025)
2025: April 10- 11

Hours: TBD

General Information: TBD

Continuing Education: TBD

Attendee Registration Information and Link: TBD

Dandy Booth Number: TBD

The AzDA Western Regional Dental Experience

April 11-13, 2024

Glendale, Arizona

Renaissance Phoenix Glendale Hotel & Spa

9495 W Coyotes Boulevard, Glendale, AZ 85305

Hours:

Note: This information is approximated and is subject to change. Check back here for more information as it becomes available!

April 11

Registration Desk Hours
8:00am – 5:00pm

Exhibition Hall hours 

8:30am – 5:00pm

CE Sessions
9:00am – 5:00pm

Welcome Reception
6:00pm – 8:00pm

April 12

Registration Desk Hours
8:00am – 5:00pm

Exhibition Hall hours

8:30am – 5:00pm

CE Sessions
9:00am – 5:00pm

President’s Dinner
6:00pm – 9:00pm

April 13

Registration Desk Hours
8:00am – 12:00pm

Exhibition Hall hours

8:30am – 1:00pm

CE Sessions
9:00am – 10:00am

Closing Brunch

10:00am – 12:00pm

A full schedule of events and courses will be available as the event draws closer, so check back for more information!

General Information:

Hosted by the Arizona Dental Association (AzDA) the WRDE is the largest convention of its kind in the state. Over 3600 attendees will be treated to 75 educational sessions, workshops, and lectures covering a wide range of topics. 132 exhibitor spaces will be showcasing the latest products and technologies. Arizona is one of the fastest growing states in the US, so WRDE presents a perfect opportunity for attendees to learn what it takes to keep up. The convention will also have its own free mobile app available for download on Android and Apple platforms.

CE Information:

WRDE offers up to 18 hours of continuing education credit

Members of the AzDA have access to digital CE tracking here

CE tracking is available on the WRDE app.

If you are looking for your 2023 CE credits, from site: “Return here with the codes given at the end of your classes after Thursday, April 20, 2023 to print your CE certificates. This is available to all Fall Conference attendees.”

Registration Information and Link:

Register here

“One-Day Exhibit badges may be purchased (Friday and Saturday only)… Attendance to lectures/workshops are not available with this registration category.” (Source: AzDA site)

Dandy Booth Number: 317

Michigan Dental Association Annual Session 2024

April 17–20, 2024

Lansing, Michigan

Lansing Center
333 E Michigan Ave, Lansing, MI 48933

Attendee Hours: 

Full schedule here

General Information:

The Michigan Dental Association Annual Session is the state’s largest gathering of dental professionals, and one of the best annual opportunities to earn CE credits. With special events, a host of speakers, nearly 200 exhibits, meetings, and classes, the Michigan Dental Association Annual Session is a must for dental professionals and students. Attendees may also sign up here to receive attendee-only discounts at local restaurants and attractions such as the Grand Rapids Art Museum, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, and many artisanal breweries.

CE Information:

The Michigan Dental Association Annual Session offers 15+ continuing education credits with ample opportunity for many more.

From Site, Re: CE vouchers: “Handheld scanners at each course or event captures data from your badge’s barcode as you enter. CE certificates can be downloaded online by using your badge number. Printed continuing education vouchers will not be available on-site. Attendees will receive an email immediately following the event with a link to download the CE voucher. If you do not receive an email, please call 517-346-9402 or Shawna Owens, MDA manager of continuing education.”

Registration:

Here.

Dandy Booth Number: 605

Star of the North Meeting

April 25–27, 2024

Saint Paul RiverCentre
175 Kellogg Blvd West, St Paul, MN 55102

Hours:

April 25

Registration Hours
7:30am – 6:00pm

CE Program Hours
8:00am – 4:30pm

Exhibit Hall Hours
10:00am – 6:00pm

Buyer’s Happy Hour
4:30pm – 6:00pm

April 26

Registration Hours
7:30am – 5:00pm

CE Program Hours
8:00am – 4:30pm

Exhibit Hall Hours
9:00am – 5:00pm

Keynote Presentation with Dr. Kulongowski
11:00am – 12:00pm

Social Hour in Exhibit Hall
3:30pm – 5:00pm

Big Party
5:00pm – 7:30pm

April 27

Registration Hours
7:30am – 2:00pm

CE Programs
8:00am – 4:30pm

A full list of sessions can be found here.

A full list of speakers can be found here.

General Information:

In 2023, the Star of the North Meeting hosted 6,308 attendees, 211 exhibitors, and 90 opportunities to earn CE credits, and this year promises to be just as outstanding. SNM  is the Upper Midwest’s premier dental conference where over three days, attendees will have the opportunity to network, attend reunions, win prizes, and gain insight into the newest technologies. In addition, in 2024, a digital artist will be drawing free caricatures, which attendees can upload to the Star of the North socials to be entered into a drawing for prizes!

CE Information:

The Star of the North Dental Meeting offers up to 21 continuing education credits.

Additional CE information can be found here.

A schedule and speaker listing can be found here.

Registration Information and Link:

Starting January 3 2024, you can register here
Early bird deadline is February 14

Guests and/or family may attend for $20, but must be sponsored and registered by a dentist who is registered to attend the 2024 Star of the North Meeting. A full list of registration policies can be accessed here and attendee rates can be found here.

Dandy Booth Number: 514

Pacific Northwest Dental Conference

May 9–11, 2024

Seattle, Washington

Hours:

For the second year, the exhibit hall will be open all three days of the conference: May 9, 10, and 11.

For hours and a more detailed schedule, check back here!

General Information:

Sponsored by the Washington Dentists’ Insurance Agency, The Pacific Northwest Dental Conference is the largest dental conference in the Pacific Northwest, attracting over 6,000 professionals, 110+ exhibitors, and 50+ speakers. Attendees will find abundant opportunities to earn high quality and affordable CE credits while staying in a vibrant downtown Seattle setting with ample accommodation options offering discounted rates. This year, the conference (including all CE sessions, exhibits, and events) will be taking place in Seattle’s brand new Summit convention center, featuring many options for dining as well as indoor and outdoor spaces to relax and connect. Expect ample opportunity to network with industry leaders, experience new tech and equipment, shop all things dentistry, enter to win prizes, and enjoy a special industry happy hour.

CE Information:

The Pacific Northwest Dental Conference offers 20+ CE credits in just three days, including sessions for all positions within your dental practice from lab techs to office staff.

All lectures will be available to reserve for no additional cost. Hands-on workshops are available for additional fees.

“CE certificates are available electronically. When entering a lecture or workshop, the QR code on your badge will be scanned, which will allow you to enter and collect CE credit. Complete a brief evaluation form for each session to gain access to your CE credits and download a CE certificate.” (Source: PNDC site)

Note: Children over the age of 12 must register for the conference. Children under 12 may not attend any lectures but may enter the Exhibit Hall accompanied by an adult. No strollers allowed in the Exhibit Hall or lecture rooms. No children of any age in workshops.

Registration:

Linked here, “early bird” pricing through March 22.

Dandy Booth Number: 305

Annual Charter Oak Dental Meeting

May 15–17 2024

Uncasville, Connecticut

Sky Convention Center at Mohegan Sun
1 Mohegan Sun Blvd, Uncasville, CT 06382

Hours:

Note: this information is approximated and is subject to change. Check back for more information as it becomes available!

May 15

CE Program Hours
5:00pm – 8:00pm

May 16

CE Program Hours
9:00am – 5:00pm

Exhibit Hall Hours
8:30am – 5:30pm

May 17

CE Program Hours
8:30am – 3:30pmExhibit Hall Hours
8:30am – 5:30pm

General Information:

The Annual Charter Oak Dental Meeting is one of the Northeast’s most convenient dental conferences with pricing competitive with other Northeastern dental conventions as well as hotel accommodations, food, 100+ exhibitions, CE courses, and ample entertainment all under the same roof at the popular Mohegan Sun casino. The conference also has its own app available on Apple and Android platforms, through which all course handouts will be available.

CE Information:

The Annual Charter Oak Dental Meeting offers 20+ continuing education credits over 30 courses. All courses and events require pre-registration.

From Site: “Please be sure your badge is scanned into your courses as this will ensure you are counted as attending the session in full and will receive your corresponding certificate. CE Certificates will be emailed to the address you registered with 30 days post event.” (Source: ACODM site)

RegistrationInformation and Link: Register online here

Dandy Booth Number: 505

CDA Presents: The Art and Science of Dentistry (Anaheim)

May 16-18, 2024

Anaheim, California

Anaheim Convention Center
800 W Katella Ave, Anaheim, CA 92802

Hours:

Note: this information is approximated and is subject to change. Check back for more information as it becomes available!

May 16

Registration Desk Hours
7:00am – 5:00pm

Exhibition Hall Hours
9:30am – 5:30pm

CE Sessions
8:30am – 5:30pm

Welcome Reception
6:00pm – 8:00pm

May 17

Registration Desk Hours
7:00am – 5:00pm

Exhibition Hall Hours
9:30am – 5:30pm

CE Sessions
8:30am – 5:30pm

President’s Dinner
6:00pm – 9:00pm

May 18

Registration Desk Hours
7:00am – 4:00pm

Exhibition Hall Hours
9:30am – 4:30pm

CE Sessions
8:30am – 4:30pm

Closing Brunch
10:00am – 12:00pm

General Information:

This three-day Southern California conference features 160+ CE courses, 200+ exhibitors, and 80+ speakers set in the lovely greater Los Angeles metropolitan area. Attendees can expect industry-leading lectures, courses, and tech showcases. Registration is required for all workshops and lectures. Two childcare options will be offered at CDA Presents: Kidzone (ages 4-12, daily max 3 hours per child, first come first served ) at the convention center and the Children’s Program (ages 6 months-12 years, registration required) at the Hilton Anaheim.

CE Information:

CDA Presents Anaheim offers over 200 CE courses, providing attendees with opportunities to earn up to 24 CE credits.

View transcripts here.

Note: “Dental Board of California regulates a maximum 8 hours of C.E. (1 C.E. credit = 1 Hour) earned in one day…C.E. transcripts will be made available through cda.org approximately 3 to 4 weeks after the event.” (Source: CDA site)

Attendee Registration Information and Link:

Check back for registration information as it becomes available.

Registration fees are waived for all CDA members, and out-of-state ADA member dentist attendees can register with an early bird special of just $205. Guest registrations will be available with early bird specials as low as $10 per attendee for member guests and $25 for non-member guests.

Dandy Booth Number: 2430

North Carolina Dental Society Annual Session

May 16-18, 2024

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Kingston Resorts
9800 Queensway Blvd, Myrtle Beach, SC 29572

Exhibition Hall Hours:

May 16

Exhibit Hall Hours
11:30am – 5:00pm

May 17

Exhibit Hall Hours
8:00am – 3:00pm

Don’t let the name fool you: the 167th annual North Carolina Dental Society Annual Session is taking place in South Carolina, lovely Myrtle Beach to be exact. NCDS has partnered with Kingston Resorts to offer several exciting options for beachfront accommodations with special rates available through May 15, 2024. The Carolinas’ biggest dental convention offers many attractions included in your hotel rate, so be sure to check out a video of the fun here and book accommodations here. Besides diversions, convention attendees can look forward to a host of CE courses as well as an extensive list of exhibitors showcasing industry-leading brands and cutting edge tech to over 1500 dental industry professionals. 

CE Information:

The North Carolina Dental Society Annual Session offers a total of over 70 CE courses, providing attendees with opportunities to earn up to 18 CE credits.

Attendees do not need to register for specific CE classes unless there is an additional fee (CPR & Hands-on courses), but seats are limited and first-come, first served.

“Each attendee (with the exception of guests, spouses and children) requires a unique email and cell phone number.  This is to ensure CE Verification forms are able to be retrieved by each attendee. Please have each individual’s email and cell phone number  ready before registering multiple attendees.” (Source: NCDS Site)

Registration:

Open early February

Dandy Booth Number: TBD

Music City Dental Conference

May 30 – June 1, 2024

Renaissance Nashville Hotel
611 Commerce St.
Nashville, TN, 37203

Hours:

Full printable schedule is here.

General Information:

Hosted by the Tennessee Dental Association (TDA) this lively 3-day conference will feature a variety of educational opportunities, including lectures, workshops, and hands-on demonstrations with an exhibit hall featuring over 100 booths where attendees can learn about the latest products, tech, and services in the dental industry. In addition to the educational and networking opportunities, the Music City Dental Conference also offers a variety of social events, including a welcome reception, a closing dinner, and live music. Attendees will get the chance to spend time in Nashville–not only the epicenter of America’s historic Country Music and singer-songwriter traditions, but home to some of the coolest food, drink, and culture in the US.

CE Information:

Attendees can earn up to 12 CE credits! Here is the course list.

Registration Information and Link:

Registration is open here.

Dandy Table Number: 35

Florida Dental Convention

June 20–22, 2024

Orlando, Florida

Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center
6000 W Osceola Pkwy, Kissimmee, FL 34746

Exhibit Hall Hours:

June 20

Exhibition Hall hours
11:00am – 6:00pm

Lunch available for purchase
11:00am – 2:00pm

Cocktail Reception
4:00pm – 6:00pm

Live! At FDC party

8:00pm – 11:00pm

Guitarist in Wreckers
10:00pm – 1:00am

June 21

Exhibition Hall hours
8:45am – 6:00pm

Lunch available for purchase
11:00am – 2:00pm

Puppy Break
3:00pm – 5:45pm

Alumni Receptions
5:00pm – 7:00pm

Attendee Social Event
7:30pm – 10:30pm

The After Party
10:00pm – 1:00am

June 22

Exhibition Hall hours
9:00am – 2:00pm

Lunch available for purchase
11:00am – 2:00pm

General Information:

Florida Dental Convention is an annual event organized by the Florida Dental Association, bringing together dental professionals from across the state and beyond to learn, connect, network, and discover the latest industry trends and technologies. Proclaiming, “your future, your design,” FDC features 300+ industry vendors, 130+ courses; events, parties, VIP opportunities, and free exhibit hall passes for all dental professionals. All social events are included in your registration.

CE Information:

The Florida Dental Convention offers approximately 20 hours of CE credits.

“All verified course attendance will be automatically submitted to CE Broker for Florida-licensed attendees…To receive credit for course attendance, attendees must scan their badge upon entering and exiting each course. The system will calculate the amount of time an attendee was present and award the credit appropriately. Per the Florida Board of Dentistry, in order to receive one hour of CE credit, attendees must be present in a course a minimum of 50 of 60 minutes.” (Source: Florida Dental Association site)

Registration Information:

Register here

Guests/spouses may attend the convention, but must register and may not register for courses. All non-dental guests including children ages 8-18 must be registered within a dental professional attendee’s registration. Children under the age of 8 do not need to register to enter the Exhibit Hall, but strollers/carriages are prohibited with the exceptions of medical necessity and during the designated stroller hours: 9:00am – 11:00am Saturday, July 1.

Dandy Booth Number: 204

Academy of General Dentistry Annual Meeting

July 17-20, 2024

Minneapolis, MN

Minneapolis Convention Center
1301 2nd Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55404

Hours:

Information subject to change

July 16

Registration Desk Hours
5:00pm – 7:00pm

July 17

Registration Desk Hours
6:30am – 5:00pm

Morning Lecture and CE Courses
8:00am – 11:00am

Afternoon Lecture and CE Courses
1:00pm – 4:00pm

July 18

Registration Desk Hours
7:00am – 7:30pm

Morning Lecture and CE Courses
8:00am – 11:00am

New Dentist Lounge Hours
11:00am – 4:00pm

Lunch at the AGD cafe
11:00am – 1:00pm

Exhibition Hall Hours
11:00am – 7:30pm

Afternoon Lecture and CE Courses
1:00pm – 4:00pm

President’s Reception
4:45pm – 7:30pm

July 19

Registration Desk Hours
7:00am – 5:00pm

Morning Lecture and CE Courses
8:00am – 11:00am

New Dentist Lounge Hours
10:00am – 5:00pm

Lunch at the AGD cafe
11:00am – 1:00pm

Exhibition Hall Hours
10:00am – 5:00pm

Afternoon Lecture and CE Courses
1:00pm – 4:00pm

Student and New Dentist Reception
3:30pm – 5:00pm

July 20

Registration Desk Hours
7:00am –5:00pm

Morning Lecture and CE Courses
8:00am – 11:00am

New Dentist Lounge Hours
9:00am – 12:00pm

Lunch at the AGD cafe
11:00am – 1:00pm

Exhibition Hall Hours
9:00am – 1:00pm

Afternoon Lecture and CE Courses
1:00pm – 4:00pm

Convocation Ceremony
4:30pm

General Information:

This year, the AGD Annual Meeting is taking place in enchanting Minneapolis, Minnesota where visitors can experience marvelous natural splendor, historic attractions, incredible food and drink, and more. Convention attendees can look forward to networking with over 2,500 attendees, opportunities to earn a whopping 54 CE credits through interactive courses, lectures from industry leaders, and showcases of cutting-edge science and tech. New dentists and dental students make note: AGD2024 boasts an extensive program of CE sessions, workshops, and mentorship events designs specifically with you in mind.

CE Information:

The 2024 AGD Annual Meeting will offer 54+ hours of CE credits.

Attendee Registration Information and Link:

Children under 13 are permitted in the exhibit hall with an accompanying adult, but any child 14 and over must be registered as a guest or attendee to access the Exhibition Hall.

Lunch tickets are available for all attendees and guests eating at the AGD cafe in the exhibition hall.

Dandy Booth Number: 516

Southwest Dental Conference

August 16-17, 2024

Dallas, TX

Hilton Anatole Dallas
2201 North Stemmons Freeway, Dallas, Texas, 75207

Hours:

August 15

Registration desk hours:
12:00pm – 5:00pm

August 16

Registration desk hours:
7:30am – 5:00pm

August 17

Registration desk hours:
7:30am – 1:00pmMore information on exhibit hall hours and special events will be posted as it becomes available, so check back here soon!

General Information:

Hosted by the Dallas County Dental Society Foundation, the 97th annual Southwest Dental Conference is one of the Southwest’s premier dental conferences. With a host of comprehensive CE courses, a slate of renowned speakers, and fun events in a vibrant Dallas setting and all for competitive rates, the event promises to be an exceptional opportunity for dental professionals and teams. SWDC also has its own app (available on ios and Android) which will help you personalize your daily schedule, locate exhibitors, get local information, download course handouts, redeem CE credits, and more. On-site hotel reservation deadline is July 14 2024. Use code: July 14, 2024 for discounted group rates.

CE Information:

The Southwest Dental Conference offers approximately 20 hours of CE credit during the conference.
A CE Attendance Worksheet is included in each registration packet, and additional worksheets are available at the Welcome Center. Record course information and completion codes on the CE Attendance Worksheet. Completion codes are given at the conclusion of each course. Each attendee is responsible for maintaining all CE documentation. AGD members may contact AGD for their forms. Some states have different requirements for documentation and verification of course credits. Please check with your state.” (Source: SWDC Site)

Verifying CE hours: “CE Verification Certificates are available on-site, online or by mail. The CE Scanning computers are located at the back of Exhibit Hall on Thursday and Friday, and at the Registration Desk on Saturday. At the computer, scan the barcode on your name badge and type in the four-digit completion codes for each course you attended. Courses with conflicting dates and times will not print… CE Verification is also available on our mobile app, online after the Conference, or by mail by filling out your CE Attendance Worksheet.” (Source: SWDC Site)

Attendee Registration Information and Link:

Register here.

Non-dental professional spouses may be registered under their dental-professional attendant, but will not be eligible to receive CE credits.

Family members under 18-years-old may register on-site only.

Note: Previous years’ registration/login information is no longer valid. Attendees must create a novel username and password for this year’s conference.

Dandy Booth Number: 601

Ohio Dental Association Annual Session

September 12 – 14, 2024

Columbus, Ohio

Greater Columbus Convention Center
400 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215

&

Hilton Downtown Columbus Hotel
402 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215

Exhibit Hall Hours:

Thursday, September 12, 12:00pm – 6:00pm
Friday, September 13, 9:00am – 4:00 pm
Saturday, September 14, 9:00am – 2:00 pm

General Information:

Ohio Dental Association’s Annual Session is one of the largest conferences in the five-state region. Here, nearly 5000 dental professionals converge to connect and network with peers, industry leaders, and brands showcasing cutting-edge technology. Located in downtown Columbus, the Annual Session is a convenient and affordable opportunity for the entire dental team to earn CE credits by attending hands-on courses, seminars, and lectures. Watch a video about past ODA Annual Sessions here. More information will be available as the date draws closer, so check back soon!

CE Information:

More information about the number of available CE credits, available courses, and how to prepare to verify your credits are available here.

Two-hour lunch breaks:

“On Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, most CE courses will break for two hours for lunch at various intervals between 11:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., giving attendees the opportunity to spend time in the Exhibit Hall with no need to travel off-site for lunch – concessions and a dining area are located in the Exhibit Hall and in the main corridor outside the Hall. On Friday and Saturday, lunch is provided to all paid attendees for free.”

Attendee Registration Information and Link:

Three ways to register are here.

Dandy Booth Number: 413

Supercharge Your Dental Practice

September 27-28, 2024

Scott Resort and Spa, Scottsdale, AZ

Hours:

September 27, 7:00am – 5:30pm
September 28, 7:30 am – 5:00pm

General Information:

“No fluff, no pseudo experts,” Dr. Len Tau promises for his highly-concentrated two-day session which focuses on the marketing and business sides of running a dental practice. Ideal for the dental professional who is struggling to find new patients, thinking about selling to a DSO, or any looking to boost their skills outside of the clinical realm, the lineup for Supercharge Your Dental Practice looks like a two-day MBA. Oh, and you can’t beat the location.

From the organizer:
“Who should not attend:
-You’re a dentist but not looking to grow your practice
-You’re retiring soon
-You don’t like fun”

CE Information:

14 CE hours are available when you attend Supercharge Your Dental Practice.

Attendee Registration Information and Link:

Check to see if super early bird special pricing is still available.

Dandy Booth Number: TBD

The post Every dental conference, convention, & meeting 2024 appeared first on Dandy.

Can a dentist have an in-house dental lab? 

Simply can you bring a lab in-house? Yes. Should you bring a lab in-house? That’s more complicated.

First, the cons: only 3% of all dentistry practices in the U.S. have their own full-service, in-house dental labs. The other 97% of dentists still send their stuff to a lab for a few reasons. First, a lab requires extra space, and many dentists are essential single-practice, small business owners. Setting up automated systems, adding (and training) additional labor is time-consuming and difficult, and labs need space.

The pro: As a dentist, you’ve probably received training on lab procedures while at dental school and can easily collaborate with a CDT to create successful restorations for your patients. With a dental lab just a few steps away, you can easily customize dental restorations to your patients’ needs. 

Why have an in-house lab?

Time is the biggest factor. But also having a dental lab on-site gives you control over how the product is made. If a patient has questions or suggests a change, the dentist can ask a lab technician to consult with the patient. Operating an in-house dental lab offers the ability to quickly and easily collaborate with a lab technician, which helps you serve patients better.    

Larger group practices can pool resources between several offices and make the economics of the investment make more sense at scale, but there is another way to get lab work done without the extensive overhead of a full internal lab. Some savings include time-consuming postal drop-offs and the cost of stamps. 

What does a dental lab do? 

A dental lab can capture impressions, make molds, create restorations, and manufacture and fabricate dental appliances.

What are the capabilities of an in-house dental lab? 

Starting an in-house lab means planning a budget and considering your ability to use the equipment in the time allotted. There still may be times when outsourcing is necessary. It’s best to decide on the types of lab services you would like to specialize in. These may include:

• Crown and bridge
• Digital dental services
• Implant Solutions
• Orthodontic products
• Night guards and splints
• Removables

Equipment and materials needed to start an in-house dental lab

Being conservative, and assuming you have the space, let’s consider just the hardware. You’ll need utility equipment, like air filtration and compressors. You’ll need handpieces, polishing systems, ultrasonic cleaners, curing systems, digital (3D) printers, and more. You’ll also need workbenches or chairs, more lighting. More cabinetry. And you’ll need to pay your staff more (or hire more staff). If you get high-quality refurbished automatic sterilizer, you could pay up to $5000 for it—some other pieces of equipment listed can run you three times this much. When buying equipment you want to make sure you’re getting your money’s worth. Is it going to be worth it to invest in all this equipment, labor, and overhead?

Dental lab equipment includes the equipment, systems, and machines that allow you to produce the best quality dental restorations for your patients. Choosing the right equipment is important to your lab’s operation and success.

Equipment you may need includes:

• Lab workstation (with built-in vacuum or dust collector)
• Lab model construction tools (alginate mixer, duplicating machine, model trimmer, light curing unit)
• Dental waxing equipment (gas light, carving wax heater, gas torch, wax pot, wax knife)
• Casting equipment (burnout furnace, casting machine, dental welder)
• PFM equipment (porcelain furnace, dental sandblaster)
• Polishing and cleaning equipment (handpieces and motors, polishing lathe, steam cleaner, 
• Utility equipment (dust collector, fume hood)
• Other (dental amalgamator, systems and parts)

Materials you may need include:

• CAD/CAM Materials
• Metals
• Metal-Ceramics
• Plastics 
• Traditional All-Ceramics

Hiring specialists for your in-house dental lab

CDTs and dental technicians have specialized training and skills which include problem-solving, manual dexterity, creativity, adaptability, and patient communication. Hiring a CDT is similar to hiring other employees. As a dentist, you may already know a technician and be familiar with their work.

Depending on your lab specialty, the CDT you hire should be able to perform these tasks:

• Bend and shape materials using tools
• Build temporary crowns
• Design crowns, bridges and other dental appliances
• Determine the best materials to use for dental appliances or impressions
• Melt wax and other materials and pour into molds
• Prepare trays and bite blocks
• Polish and edge dentures, crowns, and bridges
• Read and follow prescriptions and orders
• Repair dentures, frames and bands
• Use a workstation and software to design or print prototypes

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics sets the mean hourly wage for dental laboratory technicians at $24.01 per hour or $49,930 per year.

The overhead cost for operating an in-house dental lab

One of the most important considerations when building an in-house dental lab is costs and expenses. With the cost of modern equipment and dental staff, your investment could reach tens of thousands of dollars. If you’re a single practitioner, the cost may be too high but if you work as a part of a three or more dentist team, the cost can make sense because fellow dentists can share the costs and expenses. You’ll need to see if the speed of work is all worth it.

Your lab start-up costs may include:

• Insurances
• Licenses
• Marketing costs
• Permits
• Renovations or upgrades
• Tracking and billing software

Buying dental lab equipment vs. working with a digital dental lab

Compared to the dentistry of old, an in-house lab, outfitted with CAD/CAM technology means no mailing molds, no waiting on models. And that means patient visits can happen on an accelerated cadence.  But compared to the dentistry of old, there is another way to get almost in-house speed without buying benches, chairs, new lights, expanding your building, and hiring new staff: Dandy’s do-it-all digital dental lab with faster turnaround times than analog dentistry and 2-appointment dentures.

Also, ask yourself the same questions you would ask a dental lab.

Ultimately is a decision you will make using the equation of investment dollars, profit margins, staffing costs (plus finding local quality talent), and sweat equity vs speed of procedures. Same-day crowns are cherished by patients but who pays the price? If you have a big enough practice and the elbow grease and energy to do it, it can definitely be worth it to start an in-house lab. But not all dentists want to own a second business, or continuously vertically integrate when it’s more fun to grow in other ways—offerings, or seeing more patients.

Sources:

https://www.dentalproductsreport.com/view/bringing-dental-lab-house

https://www.thedentallab.net/blog/dental-laboratories-market-overview

https://www.treedental.com/dental-lab-supplies/dental-laboratory-equipment.html

https://luxcreo.com/five-benefits-of-using-a-3d-printing-dental-lab-lc/#:~:text=Scan%3A%203D%20printers%20manufacture%20devices,patient%20than%20traditional%20dental%20molds.

youtube.com/watch?v=FiE4_dbPTNQ

youtube.com/watch?v=IQYj3tXDz1I

youtube.com/watch?v=Z6tO0Dq6RQ4

The post Should you bring your dental lab in-house? appeared first on Dandy.

These devices are custom-made for each patient, and are sold by prescription only. The dentist is expected to evaluate the patient and assess which treatment path is most appropriate. If the TMJ treatment includes an intraoral appliance, the dentist will determine which one is best suited for the individual case.

Types of intraoral devices for TMJ dental treatment

Anterior Deprogrammer

The anterior deprogrammer is a device that covers the entire arch and discludes the posteriors via an anterior ramp to retrain jaw muscles and prevent bruxing. The device is primarily used on the upper arch.  It better protects teeth due to coverage of the full arch as well as greater retention than an NTI given its full coverage. There may be some occlusion which will interfere with retraining the jaw muscles. 

Pros 

Better protects teeth due to full arch coverage 

Provides greater retention than the NTI given the full arch coverage. 

Con

Due to the coverage on the posteriors, there  may be some occlusion which will interfere with retraining the jaw muscles. 

NTI Device

The NTI device is a small unobtrusive device on the anteriors that avoids occlusion of the posterior teeth to  inhibit bruxism and relieve stress. It is important to note that the NTI device only covers only teeth #7 – #10  on the upper arch. 

Pro

Completely prevents occlusion so it retrains patient’s muscles to not brux at all. 

Con

Given the small size, some patients may struggle with retention

Dawson B-Splint

A device that covers both arches and avoids occlusion of the posteriors to inhibit bruxism and relieve stress while allowing horizontal movement. 

Pros 

Provides coverage of both the upper and lower arches, providing complete protection. 

Facilitates and supports lateral and excursive movements. 

Con

Does not retrain patients’ muscles to actually prevent the root cause.

Gelb Appliance

The Gelb Appliance sits on the posteriors and repositions to the mandible to control the positioning of the jaw and avoid excess force. In addition to controlling the positioning of the jaw, it also maintains the mandible arch shape. It also brings the condyle into a more anterior, resulting in an inferior position in the fossa and increases the vertical opening, which can relieve pain.

Pros

Provides complete protection for the posteriors 

Allows for more tongue space by cutting away the anterior coverage which is beneficial for patients  who snore, have sleep apnea, and/or have a large tongue

Con

Does not retrain patients’ muscles to actually prevent the root cause

Selecting the right TMJ dental appliance for your patient

The correct treatment often hinges on the root cause of the problem. In order to properly diagnose the patient, it is important to take proper imaging, either X-rays or CBCT scans. This, in addition to standard exam questions, is key to understand if the root cause of the issue is due to muscle spasms or damage in the joint (the joint can erode or move out of proper alignment, cartilage can be damaged, or the joint could be damaged from impact). 

Here are ideal use cases by appliance:

Anterior Deprogrammer

The Anterior Deprogrammer works well for cases where you want full arch coverage and protection, but also to prevent occlusion. It is also good for treating TMD cases where the root cause is a muscle problem (but can treat all cases).

NTI

The NTI works well for cases where the goal is to prevent any form bruxism, rather than mitigate the impact or pain. It is very helpful for temporal headache patients and quite good for treating TMD cases where the root cause is a muscle problem.

Dawson B-Splint

The Dawson B-splint is a good fit for cases where it is important to provide full arch coverage and support excursive movements, rather than prevent them. It is good for long term use and protection for those with significant parafunction and also eliminates the possibility of posterior super eruption.

Gelb Appliance

The Gelb is a good fit for cases where it is important to provide support and relieve pain in the TMJ. It also works well for patients who struggle with airway obstruction given the anterior design.

Looking for a digital lab that makes TMJ appliances?

Dandy can help you relieve TMJ pain in your patients with the perfect balance of comfort and durability in our appliances. Explore Dandy’s appliances, splints, and guards.

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