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Contains 4 Component(s), Includes Credits Includes a Live Web Event on 09/17/2026 at 12:00 PM (EDT)
This webinar explores the unique oral health challenges faced by patients with dementia and other forms of cognitive decline. Participants will learn practical, patient-centered strategies to improve communication, support daily oral hygiene and deliver compassionate, effective care across disease stages. Emphasis is placed on caregiver collaboration and adapting clinical approaches to enhance patient comfort and outcomes.
The Pulse of Progress: Legacy Builders in Oral Health Speaker Series centers the voices and experiences of speakers from underserved communities and those who actively advocate for improving care for underserved populations. The series highlights leaders who have navigated systemic barriers within the oral health field and are working to expand access, equity and representation in dentistry.
Despite ongoing progress in the profession, disparities persist in workforce representation and access to oral health care. These challenges are often driven by structural factors such as geographic and economic limitations, gaps in educational access and inequities in care delivery. This series brings these realities to the forefront by highlighting speakers who are not only impacted by these issues but are also leading efforts to address them.
Through candid discussions, shared experiences and expert perspectives, the series fosters meaningful dialogue around improving oral health outcomes and reducing disparities in oral health outcomes. It aims to build community, illuminate pathways into the profession for underserved groups and inspire continued advocacy and leadership focused on improving outcomes for all.
This webinar explores the unique oral health challenges faced by patients with dementia and other forms of cognitive decline. Participants will learn practical, patient-centered strategies to improve communication, support daily oral hygiene and deliver compassionate, effective care across disease stages. Emphasis is placed on caregiver collaboration and adapting clinical approaches to enhance patient comfort and outcomes.
Learning Objectives:
By the end of this webinar, participants will be able to:
- Describe common oral health challenges associated with dementia and cognitive decline,
- Apply patient-centered communication strategies for individuals at different stages of cognitive impairment,
- Demonstrate techniques to support daily oral hygiene in patients with reduced cognitive function,
- Collaborate effectively with caregivers to improve oral health outcomes and
- Adapt clinical approaches to enhance comfort, safety and quality of care.
Original Release Date: September 17, 2026
Expiration Date: September 17, 2029
Questions? Contact learn@adea.org
Teaching Method: Lecture
Disclaimer
The purpose of this program is to educate and inform. Information provided in this program is not a substitute for professional care and is not intended for use in the diagnosis or treatment of individual conditions. Guests at this presentation express their own experience, opinions and conclusions, which do not necessarily reflect those of their employer or any organization or group with whom they may be affiliated. Expressed viewpoints and opinions by speaker(s), presenter(s), guest(s) and/or facilitator(s) are also not those of the American Dental Education Association (ADEA), ADEA staff or the ADEA Board of Directors. The mention of any product, service, organization, activity or therapy should not be construed as an endorsement by ADEA.
CE Information
ADEA is an ADA CERP recognized provider.
ADA CERP is a service of the American Dental Association to assist dental professionals in identifying quality providers of continuing dental education. ADA CERP does not approve or endorse individual courses or instructors, nor does it imply acceptance of credit hours by boards of dentistry. Concerns or complaints about a continuing education (CE) provider may be directed to the provider or to the Commission for Continuing Education Provider Recognition at CCEPR.ada.org.
ADEA designates this activity for 1.5 continuing education credit.
CE credit is awarded for overall participation in the ADEA eLearn webinar “Mind & Mouth: Caring for Oral Health in Patients with Cognitive Decline.”
All speakers agree they do not have any financial relationships with commercial entities that may be relevant to their presentation.
Sophia Alam, M.P.H. (Moderator)
Program Manager for Faculty Engagement and Success
American Dental Education Association (ADEA)
Sophia Alam is the Program Manager for Faculty Engagement and Success at the American Dental Education Association (ADEA). In this role, Sophia supports ADEA initiatives that enhance belonging and uphold an inclusive, equitable culture in academic dentistry.
Sophia holds a Master of Public Health in Community Health from Baylor University and a B.I.S. in Healthcare Management from Virginia Commonwealth University. She is passionate about advancing health equity, strengthening professional pipelines and creating learning environments where people and organizations can thrive.
Speaker agrees that neither they nor members of their immediate family have any financial relationships with commercial entities that may be relevant to their presentation.
Krystal Afzalzada, RDH, CDA II, B.Ed., M.Ed
Registered Dental Hygienist, Professor, and Speaker
Durham College
Krystal Afzalzada, RDH, CDA II, B.Ed., M.Ed., is a registered dental hygienist, professor, and speaker. With more than 20 years of experience in dentistry, she is passionate about helping dental hygienists confidently support healthy aging through oral healthcare.
As a post-secondary educator and continuing education presenter, Krystal develops practical, evidence-informed education that bridges oral health, cognition, and clinical practice. Her work focuses on healthy aging, cognitive wellness, dementia-informed care, and the oral-systemic connection, equipping dental professionals with realistic strategies they can immediately apply in practice.
Known for her engaging and practical teaching style, Krystal combines current evidence, clinical experience, and real-world application to help dental hygienists recognize change, adapt care with confidence, and support oral health, independence, and quality of life for aging patients. Her drive is to empower dental professionals to become confident leaders in caring for an aging population.
Speaker agrees they do not have any financial relationships with commercial entities that may be relevant to their presentation.
Technological Assistance
For technological assistance, please reach out to the ADEA eLearn team at learn@adea.org.
Content Questions
For questions related to the content or educational materials, please reach out to the ADEA eLearn team at learn@adea.org.
Membership Assistance
For membership related questions (e.g. login issues, password reset, etc.), please reach out to the ADEA membership team at membership@adea.org.
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Contains 3 Component(s) Includes a Live Web Event on 09/10/2026 at 2:00 PM (EDT)
Join colleagues from across dental education to examine emerging trends in prevention and discover practical strategies for preparing future clinicians to deliver individualized, evidence-based care that improves patient outcomes across the prevention continuum.
This session does not offer continuing education (CE) credit.
Dental educators are continually challenged to ensure curricula reflect the latest evidence to prepare students for providing preventive, patient-centered oral health care. This webinar explores emerging evidence that is shaping prevention education, with a focus on personalized oral self-care, patient engagement and effective mechanical biofilm control. Join colleagues from across dental education to examine emerging trends in prevention and discover practical strategies for preparing future clinicians to deliver individualized, evidence-based care that improves patient outcomes across the prevention continuum.
Learning Objectives
- Discuss emerging evidence and trends influencing oral self-care and prevention education across oral health professions programs.
- Examine the role of personalized oral self-care tools, techniques and individualized mechanical biofilm control in supporting patient adherence and long-term oral health outcomes.
- Identify educational strategies for preparing students to deliver individualized, evidence-based oral self-care instruction and prevention-focused care.
Original Release Date: September 10, 2026
Expiration Date: September 10, 2029
Questions? Contact learn@adea.org
Teaching Method: Lecture
Disclaimer
The purpose of this program is to educate and inform. Information provided in this program is not a substitute for professional care and is not intended for use in the diagnosis or treatment of individual conditions. Guests at this presentation express their own experience, opinions and conclusions, which do not necessarily reflect those of their employer or any organization or group with whom they may be affiliated. Expressed viewpoints and opinions by speaker(s), presenter(s), guest(s) and/or facilitator(s) are also not those of the American Dental Education Association (ADEA), ADEA staff or the ADEA Board of Directors. The mention of any product, service, organization, activity or therapy should not be construed as an endorsement by ADEA.
Wendy Bebey, RDH, B.S.
Academic Relations Manager
Young Innovations
Wendy Bebey, RDH, B.S., serves as Academic Relations Manager for Young Innovations, where she brings more than 20 years of expertise at the intersection of clinical practice, education, and industry. Her career began chairside and expanded through academia and corporate leadership, equipping her with a comprehensive understanding of the dental profession and the institutions that support it.
With a background spanning Professional Relations, Sales Management and continuing education, Wendy brings a distinctly well-rounded perspective to the evolving needs of dental professionals and academic institutions alike. She is recognized for developing and delivering impactful educational programs that elevate standards in oral healthcare and advance the professional development of dental communities nationwide.
As Chair of the ADEA Corporate Council Administrative Board, Wendy plays a meaningful role in shaping the relationship between industry and dental education at a national level. A committed advocate for lifelong learning, she is regarded as a trusted leader and valued resource throughout the dental industry.
Sarah Jackson RDH, M.S., FADHA
Head of Education
Curaden, USA
Sarah Jackson, RDH, MS, FADHA, is the Head of Education and Professional Relations for Curaden, USA. Over the past 25+ years, she has held various roles within the dental team, including dental assistant, front office staff, and dental hygienist. Sarah spent 20 years at Eastern Washington University, where she ultimately served as a tenured full professor and program director and is now a Professor Emeritus. Sarah is a researcher, published author, international speaker and active leader in the association. As a health and wellness advocate, she co-founded the Abundant Life Wellness Hub to help others live abundant, healthy lives. Sarah strives to inspire positive change among oral healthcare providers worldwide. As a certified instructor with Curaden Academy, Sarah is dedicated to advancing the mission of iTOP (Individually Trained Oral Prophylaxis). She aims to empower dental professionals to elevate their roles as health coaches, deliver exceptional oral hygiene education, and make a meaningful impact on patients’ oral and overall health.
Jamie Collins, RDH-EA, B.S. (Moderator)
irector of Sales and Virtual Care Solutions
MouthWatch™
Jamie Collins, RDH-EA, B.S., is a nationally recognized dental hygienist and the Director of Sales and Virtual Care Solutions at MouthWatch and Dentistry. One, where she is at the forefront of redefining how dental care is delivered. With over 25 years of experience in patient care and clinical education, Jamie brings deep industry insight to her work in advancing access, efficiency, and outcomes through innovative virtual care models.
Through speaking and writing for various publications, with over 80 articles published, she educates dental professionals worldwide. She has been awarded the ADHA Trailblazer Award in 2021,2022 and the first recipient of the ADHA Standout Seven Corporate Hygienist award in 2022. Jamie has also contributed to multiple textbooks, curriculum development, and contributes as a key opinion leader for various companies. She applies that clinical expertise to help organizations, providers, and employers. Her work exemplifies the intersection of clinical care, technology, and forward-thinking strategy—creating scalable, patient-centered solutions for the evolving healthcare landscape.
Technological Assistance
For technological assistance, please reach out to the ADEA eLearn team at learn@adea.org.
Content Questions
For questions related to the content or educational materials, please reach out to the ADEA eLearn team at learn@adea.org.
Membership Assistance
For membership related questions (e.g. login issues, password reset, etc.), please reach out to the ADEA membership team at membership@adea.org.
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Contains 4 Component(s), Includes Credits Includes a Live Web Event on 08/27/2026 at 12:00 PM (EDT)
Join this webinar to gain a clear view of the faculty landscape, along with actionable insights into open position patterns, search activity and how schools manage the workload of open positions.
How is the faculty landscape in dental education changing, and what does it mean for careers and institutional planning? Drawing on ADEA Faculty Trends: Full-time and Part-time Faculty Positions at U.S. Dental Schools, FY 2019 and FY 2025, this webinar highlights key workforce shifts and their implications for career pathways and institutional planning.
You will gain a clear view of the faculty workforce, along with actionable insights into open position patterns, search activity and how schools manage the workload of open positions.
To explore the full report, please visit adea.org/facultytrends.
To compare your school’s faculty composition against key benchmarks, please visit the ADEA Data Portal dashboard, “U.S. Dental Schools: FT and PT Faculty – Your School.” ADEA members can access the portal free using their institutional email address and password.
Learning Objectives:
- Relate your professional role to national faculty trends at U.S. dental schools.
- Analyze changes in faculty roles, ranks, degrees and disciplines to identify career pathways and workforce shifts.
- Assess recruitment challenges, open position trends and institutional strategies to address faculty shortages.
Original Release Date: August 27, 2026
Expiration Date: August 27, 2029
Questions? Contact learn@adea.org
Teaching Method: Lecture
Disclaimer
The purpose of this program is to educate and inform. Information provided in this program is not a substitute for professional care and is not intended for use in the diagnosis or treatment of individual conditions. Guests at this presentation express their own experience, opinions and conclusions, which do not necessarily reflect those of their employer or any organization or group with whom they may be affiliated. Expressed viewpoints and opinions by speaker(s), presenter(s), guest(s) and/or facilitator(s) are also not those of the American Dental Education Association (ADEA), ADEA staff or the ADEA Board of Directors. The mention of any product, service, organization, activity or therapy should not be construed as an endorsement by ADEA.
CE Information
ADEA is an ADA CERP recognized provider.
ADA CERP is a service of the American Dental Association to assist dental professionals in identifying quality providers of continuing dental education. ADA CERP does not approve or endorse individual courses or instructors, nor does it imply acceptance of credit hours by boards of dentistry. Concerns or complaints about a continuing education (CE) provider may be directed to the provider or to the Commission for Continuing Education Provider Recognition at CCEPR.ada.org.
ADEA designates this activity for 1.0 continuing education credits.
CE credit is awarded for overall participation in the ADEA eLearn webinar, "Examining Faculty Workforce Trends in Dental Education."
All speakers agree that neither they nor members of their immediate family have any financial relationships with commercial entities that may be relevant to their presentation.
Dr. Shiyao Liu, Ph.D., M.D.
Senior Director of Higher Education Research
American Dental Education Association
Dr. Shiyao Liu is Senior Director of Higher Education Research at ADEA. In this role, Dr. Liu leads the ADEA U.S. Dental School Faculty Census and the Allied Program Director Survey, advancing ADEA’s national data initiatives through analysis of U.S. dental school faculty workforce trends, development of faculty compensation and allied dental program director reports, and delivery of insights that inform institutional planning across U.S. dental schools.
Dr. Liu holds a Ph.D. in Biological Education from Purdue University and an M.D. from Capital Medical University, China. Her work focuses on translating national faculty workforce data into practical insights for dental school leaders, administrators and faculty. She is passionate about leveraging data to strengthen academic workforce planning, support evidence-based decision-making and deepen understanding of the evolving dental education landscape.
Speaker agrees that neither they nor members of their immediate family have any financial relationships with commercial entities that may be relevant to their presentation.
Technological Assistance
For technological assistance, please reach out to the ADEA eLearn team at learn@adea.org.
Content Questions
For questions related to the content or educational materials, please reach out to the ADEA eLearn team at learn@adea.org.
Membership Assistance
For membership related questions (e.g. login issues, password reset, etc.), please reach out to the ADEA membership team at membership@adea.org.
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Contains 4 Component(s), Includes Credits Includes a Live Web Event on 08/19/2026 at 7:00 PM (EDT)
This session explores how dental faculty can strengthen the relevance and impact of EBD by aligning instruction with Gen Z’s preference for practical, engaging and clinically connected learning experiences.
As Gen Z learners enter dental education, their evolving expectations are prompting educators to rethink traditional approaches to teaching and learning, including ensuring that evidence-based dentistry (EBD) resonates. This timely webinar explores how dental faculty can strengthen the relevance and impact of EBD by aligning instruction with Gen Z’s preference for practical, engaging and clinically connected learning experiences.
Join us to examine key characteristics of today’s learners and review pedagogical approaches that support integration of evidence into clinical applications. The webinar also highlights the evolving influence of artificial intelligence (AI) on EBD education and its emerging role in dental curricula.
Participants will gain practical strategies for designing authentic, engaging and clinically relevant EBD learning experiences that help students confidently integrate evidence into patient care.
Original Release Date: August 19, 2026
Expiration Date: August 19, 2029
Questions? Contact learn@adea.org
Teaching Method: Lecture
Disclaimer
The purpose of this program is to educate and inform. Information provided in this program is not a substitute for professional care and is not intended for use in the diagnosis or treatment of individual conditions. Guests at this presentation express their own experience, opinions and conclusions, which do not necessarily reflect those of their employer or any organization or group with whom they may be affiliated. Expressed viewpoints and opinions by speaker(s), presenter(s), guest(s) and/or facilitator(s) are also not those of the American Dental Education Association (ADEA), ADEA staff or the ADEA Board of Directors. The mention of any product, service, organization, activity or therapy should not be construed as an endorsement by ADEA.
CE Information
ADEA is an ADA CERP recognized provider.
ADA CERP is a service of the American Dental Association to assist dental professionals in identifying quality providers of continuing dental education. ADA CERP does not approve or endorse individual courses or instructors, nor does it imply acceptance of credit hours by boards of dentistry. Concerns or complaints about a continuing education (CE) provider may be directed to the provider or to the Commission for Continuing Education Provider Recognition at CCEPR.ada.org.
ADEA designates this activity for 1.0 continuing education credit.
CE credit is awarded for overall participation in the ADEA eLearn webinar, "Evidence-Based Dentistry and Gen Z: Rethinking Our Teaching Approaches."
All speakers agree they do not have any financial relationships with commercial entities that may be relevant to their presentation.
Salma Elwazeer, B.D.S., M.D.S., M.P.H., FRSPH, FICD, FACD
Assistant Professor and Director of Public Health Education and Interprofessional Education (IPE)
Hunt School of Dental Medicine, Texas Tech Health El Paso
Dr. Salma Elwazeer, B.D.S., M.D.S., M.P.H., FRSPH, FICD, FACD, is an associate professor and Director of Public Health Education and Interprofessional Education (IPE) at Hunt School of Dental Medicine, Texas Tech Health El Paso, with a secondary Faculty appointment at Foster School of Medicine. She earned her dental degree from Ain-Shams University in Cairo, Egypt, completed a pediatric dentistry residency and master’s degree, earned her MPH at Purdue University, and completed a Dental Public Health residency at UT Health San Antonio. At Texas Tech, Dr. Elwazeer directs the Community Health Certificate Curriculum, a required four-year program that integrates public health, IPE, and Spanish-language into dental education. Her scholarly record includes over 50 peer-reviewed publications, presentations, seminars, and workshops. Her efforts have been recognized at the institutional, state, and national levels with various awards, including the Chancellor’s Council Distinguished Teaching Award, the highest faculty honor in the Texas Tech University System, and the ADA Foundation Whiston Leadership Award. Dr. Elwazeer is a fellow of the 2026-2027 ADEA Leadership Institute. She also serves as a chair of the ADEA’s section on Community, Preventive, and Public Health Dentistry (CPPHD), and holds leadership roles at AAPHD and APHA. Dr. Elwazeer is a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Public Health and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Public Health, the International College of Dentists, and the American College of Dentists.
Speaker agrees they do not have any financial relationships with commercial entities that may be relevant to their presentation.
Jimmy Gonzalez-Vicker, M.S.L.I.S.
Assistant Professor, Dentistry & Student Success Librarian
University of Illinois Chicago - Library of the Health Sciences
Jimmy has served as the UIC Dentistry Librarian since February of 2024 and is also the Chair for the ADEA Section on EBD. Jimmy leads research consultations and lectures for students, clinicians, researchers, and faculty members at all levels for the UIC College of Dentistry. One of Jimmy’s main goals is to ensure that health sciences community members are aware of their information resources, especially as it makes EBD knowledge more accessible for quality decision-making. In addition to his librarianship, Jimmy’s research focuses on the cross-section of makerspaces and academic health sciences libraries.
Speaker agrees they do not have any financial relationships with commercial entities that may be relevant to their presentation.
Technological Assistance
For technological assistance, please reach out to the ADEA eLearn team at learn@adea.org.
Content Questions
For questions related to the content or educational materials, please reach out to the ADEA eLearn team at learn@adea.org.
Membership Assistance
For membership related questions (e.g. login issues, password reset, etc.), please reach out to the ADEA membership team at membership@adea.org.
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Register
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Contains 3 Component(s) Includes a Live Web Event on 08/11/2026 at 7:00 PM (EDT)
This dynamic webinar will spotlight some of the latest innovations in digital dentistry, simulation and immersive learning, artificial intelligence (AI) and data-driven decision-making. Participants will gain insights and strategies to effectively integrate emerging technologies into curricula and encourage faculty adoption and foster interdisciplinary collaboration, empowering educators to better prepare students for the evolving landscape of oral health care.
This session does not offer continuing education (CE) credit.
As technology continues to transform dental education and patient care, institutions have unprecedented opportunities to elevate teaching, learning and clinical outcomes. This dynamic webinar will spotlight some of the latest innovations in digital dentistry, simulation and immersive learning, artificial intelligence (AI) and data-driven decision-making. Participants will gain insights and strategies to effectively integrate emerging technologies into curricula and encourage faculty adoption and foster interdisciplinary collaboration, empowering educators to better prepare students for the evolving landscape of oral health care.
This webinar is presented by the ADEA Corporate Council and the ADEA Council of Advanced Education Programs in an effort to foster cross-council dialogue and share perspectives on emerging trends in dental education.
Learning Objectives
- Describe emerging technologies that are transforming digital dentistry workflows, clinical education and patient care delivery.
- Discuss the role of simulation, virtual reality, augmented reality and other digital tools in supporting preclinical skill development.
- Identify current and potential applications of AI and data-driven technologies in dental education and clinical practice.
- Recognize considerations and strategies for integrating new technologies into educational programs and supporting faculty adoption.
- Explore how technology can facilitate interdisciplinary collaboration and enhance team-based approaches to oral health care delivery.
Original Release Date: August 11, 2026
Expiration Date: August 11, 2029
Questions? Contact learn@adea.org
Teaching Method: Lecture
Disclaimer
The purpose of this program is to educate and inform. Information provided in this program is not a substitute for professional care and is not intended for use in the diagnosis or treatment of individual conditions. Guests at this presentation express their own experience, opinions and conclusions, which do not necessarily reflect those of their employer or any organization or group with whom they may be affiliated. Expressed viewpoints and opinions by speaker(s), presenter(s), guest(s) and/or facilitator(s) are also not those of the American Dental Education Association (ADEA), ADEA staff or the ADEA Board of Directors. The mention of any product, service, organization, activity or therapy should not be construed as an endorsement by ADEA.
Shreekrishna Akilesh, D.M.D. (Moderator)
Senior Associate Program Director
NYU Langone Dental Medicine Postdoctoral Residency Programs
Dr. Shreekrishna Akilesh is a highly accomplishedpediatric dentist dedicated to advancing the oral health of children inArizona. He earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree from HarvardSchool of Dental Medicine and received a Master of Public Health (MPH) degreefrom Harvard School of Public Health. He completed his specialty training inPediatric Dentistry at University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine.
With over 15 years of experience in both academicand private practice settings, Dr. Akilesh has built a reputation as acompassionate clinician and a collaborative leader. He served as faculty, andthe Associate Program Director at NYU Langone’s Advanced Education in PediatricDentistry Program mentoring residents including clinical supervision anddirecting research projects. He currently serves as the Senior AssociateProgram Director for NYU Langone, and oversees multiple program sites locatedin Arizona, and Missouri. Dr. Akilesh also maintains his clinical expertise byworking part-time in private practice.
Outside of academia and clinical practice, Dr.Akilesh maintains a strong commitment to organized dentistry. He is a Diplomateof the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry (ABPD), and currently serves as anexaminer for the Board’s Oral Clinical Examination. He also serves on theAmerican Academy of Pediatric Dentistry’s (AAPD) In-service Examinationcommittee. He currently serves as the chair for the American Dental EducationAssociation’s (ADEA) Council of Advanced Education Programs (COAEP).
Brigit Balogun
Strategic Account Manager
3Shape
Brigit Balogun is a Strategic Account Manager for 3Shape North America, where she leads strategic initiatives across dental education, government healthcare, hospitals, community health centers, and large institutional accounts. With more than 25 years of experience in dentistry, clinical training, and digital workflow implementation, she specializes in helping organizations successfully adopt and scale digital dentistry technologies.
Throughout her career, Brigit has worked closely with dental schools, healthcare systems, and industry partners toadvance clinical education, digital transformation, and patient care through innovative technologies. Her expertise includes intraoral scanning, CAD/CAM workflows, digital dentistry curriculum development, enterprise deployment strategies, and cross-functional collaboration between clinical, academic, IT, and operational stakeholders.
A recognized advocate for digital dentistry education, Brigit is passionate about empowering clinicians, educators, and students to leverage technology to improve outcomes and expand access to care. In 2025, she received the 3Shape Pinnacle Award in recognition of her leadership and contributions to strategic account development and customer success.
Brigit resides in Charlotte, North Carolina, and continues to champion innovation, collaboration, and lifelong learning throughout the dental profession.
Lauren Fang
President and Co-Founder
MedAssent DDS
Lauren Fang is President of MedAssent DDS, a program she founded to advance technology-driven solutions in dental education and clinical practice. Raised in a family-owned dental practice, she developed an early and intimate understanding of the operational and clinical challenges dentists face, which continues to shape her approach to building practical, meaningful technology for the field.
With a B.S. in Bioengineering: Biotechnology from UC San Diego and a certificate in Strategic Management from Harvard Extension School, Lauren brings a rigorous interdisciplinary foundation to the challenge of modernizing dentistry. She has spent over six years innovating in the digital health space, combining expertise in clinical research and biotech R&D.
At this webinar, Lauren will discuss how purposefully designed digital tools can reshape dental curricula and better equip future clinicians for the demands of modern practice.
Technological Assistance
For technological assistance, please reach out to the ADEA eLearn team at learn@adea.org.
Content Questions
For questions related to the content or educational materials, please reach out to the ADEA eLearn team at learn@adea.org.
Membership Assistance
For membership related questions (e.g. login issues, password reset, etc.), please reach out to the ADEA membership team at membership@adea.org.
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Register
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Contains 4 Component(s), Includes Credits
Gain practical insights into how intentional curriculum review, mentorship and collaborative feedback can transform teaching practices and drive stronger student outcomes. Whether you’re refining an existing approach or building from the ground up, you’ll leave with actionable strategies to advance curriculum excellence at your institution.
Discover how to design and implement a robust Dental Hygiene Curriculum Management Plan aligned with Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) standards and see it in action through Virginia Commonwealth University’s innovative model. Presenters will showcase the structure and impact of the Dental Hygiene Curriculum Management Committee—a proven framework that empowers course directors; strengthens curriculum quality; and actively engages faculty, students and alumni in meaningful evaluation.
Gain practical insights into how intentional curriculum review, mentorship and collaborative feedback can transform teaching practices and drive stronger student outcomes. Whether you’re refining an existing approach or building from the ground up, you’ll leave with actionable strategies to advance curriculum excellence at your institution.
Learning Objectives
- Explain the importance of a formal curriculum management plan in meeting CODA standards.
- Describe how mentoring and structured feedback can support faculty development.
- Recognize the benefits of a curriculum management plan beyond annual curriculum mapping.
Original Release Date: July 28, 2026
Expiration Date: July 28, 2029
Questions? Contact learn@adea.org
Teaching Method: Lecture
Disclaimer
The purpose of this program is to educate and inform. Information provided in this program is not a substitute for professional care and is not intended for use in the diagnosis or treatment of individual conditions. Guests at this presentation express their own experience, opinions and conclusions, which do not necessarily reflect those of their employer or any organization or group with whom they may be affiliated. Expressed viewpoints and opinions by speaker(s), presenter(s), guest(s) and/or facilitator(s) are also not those of the American Dental Education Association (ADEA), ADEA staff or the ADEA Board of Directors. The mention of any product, service, organization, activity or therapy should not be construed as an endorsement by ADEA.
CE Information
ADEA is an ADA CERP recognized provider.
ADA CERP is a service of the American Dental Association to assist dental professionals in identifying quality providers of continuing dental education. ADA CERP does not approve or endorse individual courses or instructors, nor does it imply acceptance of credit hours by boards of dentistry. Concerns or complaints about a continuing education (CE) provider may be directed to the provider or to the Commission for Continuing Education Provider Recognition at CCEPR.ada.org.
ADEA designates this activity for 1.0 continuing education credits.
CE credit is awarded for overall participation in the ADEA eLearn webinar, "From Standards to Success: Strengthening Dental Hygiene Education Through Curriculum Management."
All speakers agree they do not have any financial relationships with commercial entities that may be relevant to their presentation.
Kimberly Lintag-Nguyen, Ed.D., M.S.D.H., RDH
Assistant Professor
Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry
Dr. Kimberly Lintag-Nguyen is an Assistant Professor at the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry, where she serves as Academic Coordinator and Senior Clinic Coordinator of the Dental Hygiene Program, as well as Chair of the Dental Hygiene Curriculum Management Committee. She is a CODA Site Visitor, MCV campus representative and Senator for the VCU Faculty Senate, peer reviewer for the Journal of Dental Hygiene, and Editorial Advisory Board member for Dimensions of Dental Hygiene. Dr. Lintag-Nguyen has authored more than 15 peer-reviewed publications, with additional manuscripts accepted for publication, and has presented her scholarship nationally and internationally, including in Canada and at the International Symposium on Dental Hygiene in Milan. Her research spans dental hygiene education, infection control, ergonomics, sleep breathing disorders, interprofessional collaboration, and evidence-based clinical practice. Passionate about advancing scholarship within the profession, Dr. Lintag-Nguyen has mentored multiple faculty and students through publication of their first research articles and helped foster pathways for emerging dental hygiene researchers through mentorship, collaboration, and innovation in education and research. Dr. Lintag-Nguyen is the ADHA2026 Standout Seven: Researcher Award Recipient.
Speaker agrees they do not have any financial relationships with commercial entities that may be relevant to their presentation.
Marion Manski, M.S., RDH
Director and Associate Professor, Dental Hygiene
Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry
Director and Associate Professor at Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry, Richmond, VA. A dental hygienist for over 40 years, she focuses on education, leadership, and research in curriculum management access to care, scope of practice, pain management, and early childhood caries. Manski is a recipient of the Irene Newman Award from the American Dental Hygienists’ Association, the 2025 Ann Battrell Visionary Leader Award, and the 2026 Sunstar/RDH Magazine Award of Distinction, and serves on the editorial advisory board for Dimensions of Dental Hygiene, and is a Peer Reviewer for the Journal of Dental Hygiene. Manski has authored numerous publications and has presented locally, nationally and internationally. Professor Manski currently serves as the Board Director for Allied Dental Program Directors for the 2026-27 ADEA Board of Directors.
Speaker agrees they do not have any financial relationships with commercial entities that may be relevant to their presentation.
Erin Sigmon (Moderator)
Senior Manager, Allied Dental Education
American Dental Education Association (ADEA)
Erin Sigmon joined ADEA in 2022. Presently, Erin serves as the Allied Dental Education Senior Manager at ADEA after transitioning to the Office of Learning, Access and Development in 2023. In her current position, she is responsible for collaborating with ADEA members and staff in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of key ADEA allied dental professional development programs and events. She also supports the work of the Council of Allied Dental Program Directors at ADEA.
Previously, Erin worked with the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services in its COVID-19 Community Response Program. Prior to that, she was a Program Administrator with the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and an Advocacy Associate at a nonprofit focused on international human rights. She holds a B.A. in International Studies from North Carolina State University.
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Contains 5 Component(s), Includes Credits Recorded On: 07/22/2026
This webinar spotlight features two U.S. dental schools—one predoctoral and one postdoctoral program—that have successfully implemented entrustment frameworks that use EPAs. Join us to learn first-hand why and how these programs engaged in change, and what they did to move an entrustment framework using EPAs into their settings. Hear the challenges and opportunities during this shift, and the highlights of EPAs for both learners and faculty.
Entrustable professional activities (EPAs) are gaining momentum in dental education to connect competency-based learning with clinical practice. EPAs, defined as observable and measurable tasks that learners must perform safely and effectively, offer a structure for assessing readiness and ensuring graduates are prepared to meet patients’ needs in varied and potentially unfamiliar contexts.
Building upon previous sessions, this webinar spotlight presented by the ADEA Entrustable Professional Activity Workgroup features two U.S. dental schools—one predoctoral and one postdoctoral program—that have successfully implemented entrustment frameworks that use EPAs. Join us to learn first-hand why and how these programs engaged in change, and what they did to move an entrustment framework using EPAs into their settings. Hear the challenges and opportunities during this shift, and the highlights of EPAs for both learners and faculty.
Learning Objectives
- Assess the current trend of EPAs moving from an EPA framework to entrustment framework.
- Outline predoctoral and postdoctoral examples of entrustment framework.
- Recommend potential benefits of using EPAs to faculty, staff and learners.
Original Release Date: July 22, 2026
Expiration Date: July 22, 2029
Questions? Contact learn@adea.org
Teaching Method: Self-Instruction
Disclaimer
The purpose of this program is to educate and inform. Information provided in this program is not a substitute for professional care and is not intended for use in the diagnosis or treatment of individual conditions. Guests at this presentation express their own experience, opinions and conclusions, which do not necessarily reflect those of their employer or any organization or group with whom they may be affiliated. Expressed viewpoints and opinions by speaker(s), presenter(s), guest(s) and/or facilitator(s) are also not those of the American Dental Education Association (ADEA), ADEA staff or the ADEA Board of Directors. The mention of any product, service, organization, activity or therapy should not be construed as an endorsement by ADEA.
CE Information
ADEA is an ADA CERP recognized provider.
ADA CERP is a service of the American Dental Association to assist dental professionals in identifying quality providers of continuing dental education. ADA CERP does not approve or endorse individual courses or instructors, nor does it imply acceptance of credit hours by boards of dentistry. Concerns or complaints about a continuing education (CE) provider may be directed to the provider or to the Commission for Continuing Education Provider Recognition at CCEPR.ada.org.
ADEA designates this activity for 1.0 continuing education credits.
CE credit is awarded for overall participation in the ADEA eLearn webinar, "EPA Spotlight: Two Stories, One Shared Vision for Entrustment."
All speakers agree they do not have any financial relationships with commercial entities that may be relevant to their presentation.
Linda C. Niessen, D.M.D., M.P.H., M.P.P.
Vice Provost for Oral Health Affairs
Kansas City University College of Dental Medicine
Dr. Linda Niessen serves as Vice Provost for Oral Health Affairs for Kansas City University (KCU) and Founding Dean and Professor for the Kansas City University College of Dental Medicine in Joplin, Missouri. Dr. Niessen is a diplomate of the American Board of Dental Public Health and the American Board of Special Care Dentistry. Her career includes serving as a clinician caring for medically complex and geriatric patients.
Dr. Niessen currently serves as Chair for the Administrative Council of Deans and is a member of the ADEA EPA Work Group. She has served as Chair, Council on Dental Education and Licensure for the ADA.
Speaker agrees they do not have any financial relationships with commercial entities that may be relevant to their presentation.
Rocío Quiñonez, D.M.D., M.S., M.P.H.
Professor and Associate Dean for Curriculum
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Adams School of Dentistry
Dr. Rocio Quinonez is a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentist and Fellow of the Royal College of Dentists of Canada. She holds joint appointments in the Department of Pediatric Dentistry and Dental Public Health and the Department of Pediatrics at the UNC School of Medicine. She served as Predoctoral Program Director in Pediatric Dentistry from 2007-2017. In 2018, she became the Associate Dean for Educational Leadership and Innovation at UNC and was charged with leading a new dental curriculum for Adams School of Dentistry. Her current role transitioned to Associate Dean for Curriculum to better reflect the program’s implementation. She has authored over 100 peer reviewed manuscripts and book chapters and is the recipient of the American Academy of Pediatrics National Oral Health Service Award, the Charles Craig National Teaching Award, and the UNC Dental Alumni Outstanding Lifetime Service Award. She practices at the Adams School of Dentistry and is an active member of UNC Health medical staff.
Speaker agrees they do not have any financial relationships with commercial entities that may be relevant to their presentation.
Yota Stathopoulou, D.D.S., D.M.D., Ph.D.
Head of Periodontology and Director of the Advanced Education Program in Periodontics
Oregon Health & Science University School of Dentistry
Dr. Yota Stathopoulou, D.D.S., D.M.D., Ph.D. is Professor and Head of Periodontology and Director of the Advanced Education Program in Periodontics at Oregon Health & Science University School of Dentistry. She holds a D.D.S. from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens and a D.M.D. from the University of Pennsylvania. She received a certificate in Periodontics from the University of Louisville and completed a M.S. and Ph.D. at the same institution. She has published in peer-reviewed journals and is the author of several chapters in Carranza’s Clinical Periodontology. She is a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology and recipient of several prestigious national and international scholarships and awards. Dr. Stathopoulou’s clinical research focuses on the non-surgical treatment of periodontitis and periimplantitis, and has been supported by industry and the NIH/NIDCR; her basic science research focuses on host-bacterial interactions and their role in the pathogenesis of periodontal disease; her educational scholarship focuses on learner assessment. She has maintained an active clinical practice throughout her academic career and currently practices at Fusion Dental Specialists in Happy Valley, Oregon.
Speaker agrees they do not have any financial relationships with commercial entities that may be relevant to their presentation.
Sandra Stuhr, D.M.D., M.S.
Clinical Assistant Professor
University of Michigan School of Dentistry
Sandra Stuhr, D.M.D., M.S. is a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry, and a current Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology. She also serves as the director for the Pre-Doctoral Periodontics Program at the University of Michigan. She completed her dental training at LECOM School of Dental Medicine (2019), followed by a periodontal residency and an MS in Oral Sciences at the University of Iowa (2022).
Her current research involves soft tissue biology and wound healing, oral regeneration around implants and teeth, non-surgical therapy of periodontal diseases and dental education. She was the recipient of the Tarrson Fellowship Award from the American Academy of Periodontology Foundation (2025) and the AAP Excellence in Teaching and Mentoring Award (2026).
Speaker agrees they do not have any financial relationships with commercial entities that may be relevant to their presentation.
Technological Assistance
For technological assistance, please reach out to the ADEA eLearn team at learn@adea.org.
Content Questions
For questions related to the content or educational materials, please reach out to the ADEA eLearn team at learn@adea.org.
Membership Assistance
For membership related questions (e.g. login issues, password reset, etc.), please reach out to the ADEA membership team at membership@adea.org.
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Contains 2 Component(s) Recorded On: 06/24/2026
Attendees will learn how intraoral scanning, diagnostic visualization and patient-engagement tools can support earlier disease identification, enable better tracking and documentation over time, improve communication with patients and reinforce preventive care behaviors. The session will discuss practical approaches for incorporating these tools into predoctoral and postgraduate curricula, faculty workflows and assessment strategies.
This session does not offer continuing education (CE) credit.
This webinar will explore how digital diagnostics, visualizations for patient communication and preventive care workflows can be meaningfully integrated into dental education and institutional clinical programs. Attendees will learn how intraoral scanning, diagnostic visualization and patient-engagement tools can support earlier disease identification, enable better tracking and documentation over time, improve communication with patients and reinforce preventive care behaviors. The session will discuss practical approaches for incorporating these tools into predoctoral and postgraduate curricula, faculty workflows and assessment strategies. Real-world academic use cases will demonstrate how digital workflows can enhance student learning, interdisciplinary collaboration and research opportunities while maintaining clinical efficiency. The presentation will conclude with a guided demonstration and open Q&A focused on implementation considerations for dental schools and teaching clinics.
Note: This event does not offer continuing education (CE) credit.
Learning Objectives:
- Explain the role of digital diagnostics in dental education and how intraoral scanning and visualization tools can support earlier detection, risk assessment, patient communication and preventive care decision-making.
- Identify practical methods for integrating digital workflows into curricula and clinic operations, including faculty calibration, student competencies and documentation within institutional clinical environments.
- Evaluate strategies for improving patient communication, treatment acceptance and behavior change using visual education and patient-engagement technologies within teaching clinics.
Original Release Date: June 24, 2026
Expiration Date: June 24, 2029
Questions? Contact learn@adea.org
Teaching Method: Lecture
Disclaimer
The purpose of this program is to educate and inform. Information provided in this program is not a substitute for professional care and is not intended for use in the diagnosis or treatment of individual conditions. Guests at this presentation express their own experience, opinions and conclusions, which do not necessarily reflect those of their employer or any organization or group with whom they may be affiliated. Expressed viewpoints and opinions by speaker(s), presenter(s), guest(s) and/or facilitator(s) are also not those of the American Dental Education Association (ADEA), ADEA staff or the ADEA Board of Directors. The mention of any product, service, organization, activity or therapy should not be construed as an endorsement by ADEA.
Lisa D’Affronte, D.D.S. (Moderator)
Clinical Assistant Professor
University of Maryland School of Dentistry
Clinical Assistant Professor Lisa D’Affronte, D.D.S. graduated in 2012 from the University of Maryland, School of Dentistry with high honors. She completed a residency in general dentistry at the Johns Hopkins Hospital and began her academic career at UMSOD in 2013. She currently serves as the Division Director of the Division of General Practice in the Department of Comprehensive Dentistry. Dr. D’Affronte has been integral in introducing CAD/CAM dentistry into the curriculum, beginning with the introduction of CAD/CAM Senior Clerkship in 2016. She has an active faculty practice at UMSOD and has been awarded Top Dentist in 2023, 2024 and 2025 by Baltimore Magazine.
Kasper Brehmer
Director of Patient Apps
3Shape
Kasper Brehmer leads the team behind 3Shape’s DentalHealth app, focused on helping people build and maintain healthy habits through engaging digital health experiences. With a strong emphasis on user-centered design and innovation, he works to transform preventive care by making oral health more accessible, intuitive, and motivating for patients worldwide.
Kristine Fønss Borg
Product Specialist
3Shape
A dentist with advanced training in functional occlusion and temporomandibular disorders (TMD), Kristine Fønss Borg combines clinical expertise with academic experience from the University of Copenhagen. She is dedicated to helping dental professionals unlock the full clinical potential of intraoral scanning and AI-assisted workflows, bridging the gap between digital innovation and everyday practice.
Thomas Murmann
Head of Diagnostics (Dx) Product Management, Portfolio and Product Strategy
3Shape
Thomas Murmann is the head of 3Shape's AI-powered diagnostics software solutions (Dx and Dx Plus). He works to drive the evolution of intraoral scanners from impression-taking devices for treatments to integral tools in preventive check-up workflows. Thomas is responsible for product strategy and management incl. future product development based on deep market insights, customer needs, and emerging trends in digital dentistry. He works closely with R&D, clinical, and commercial teams across 3Shape to bring innovative technologies to market and improve patient communication and treatment acceptance in clinics.
Sivaranjani Madhan
Clinical Research Manager
3Shape
As Clinical Research Manager at 3Shape, Sivaranjani Madhan combines her advanced training in oral surgery with a passion for innovation, guiding dental professionals to unlock new levels of clinical performance through intraoral scanning and AI-assisted workflows.
Stine Seeberg
Product Manager, Diagnostics Product Management
3Shape
Stine Seeburg is a dentist with extensive clinical experience and currently serves as Product Manager, Diagnostics Product Management at 3Shape. Bringing together deep clinical insight and a passion for digital dentistry, Ms. Stineburg drives innovation in healthcare technology and patient engagement.
Technological Assistance
For technological assistance, please reach out to the ADEA eLearn team at learn@adea.org.
Content Questions
For questions related to the content or educational materials, please reach out to the ADEA eLearn team at learn@adea.org.
Membership Assistance
For membership related questions (e.g. login issues, password reset, etc.), please reach out to the ADEA membership team at membership@adea.org.
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Contains 4 Component(s), Includes Credits Recorded On: 06/02/2026
This webinar will focus on strengthening communication skills when caring for patients whose experiences or needs may not be fully addressed within traditional dental education and clinical training. Drawing on established educational frameworks, the session will explore strategies for integrating person-centered care and patient-related behavioral and contextual factors into dental curricula. Participants will gain practical insights related to curriculum design, learning environments, and clinical teaching practices that support effective, patient-centered oral health care.
Effective learning environments are essential for preparing students to navigate complex clinical interactions and deliver high-quality oral health care. This webinar will focus on strengthening communication skills when caring for patients whose experiences or needs may not be fully addressed within traditional dental education and clinical training. Drawing on established educational frameworks, the session will explore strategies for integrating person-centered care and patient-related behavioral and contextual factors into dental curricula. Emphasis will be placed on educational and clinical approaches that help learners build trust, avoid assumptions, and provide respectful, effective care in encounters that require heightened sensitivity and professionalism. Participants will gain practical insights related to curriculum design, learning environments, and clinical teaching practices that support effective, patient-centered oral health care.
Learning Objectives
- Describe key principles of person-centered oral health care and explain why these approaches are essential for complex or sensitive clinical interactions.
- Interpret how behavioral, contextual and patient experience factors influence building trust, avoiding assumptions and fostering respectful communication in patient encounters requiring heightened sensitivity.
- Apply didactic and clinical teaching practices that can enhance student readiness for complex care interactions and improve patient outcomes.
Original Release Date: June 2, 2026
Expiration Date: June 2, 2029
Teaching Methods: Self-instruction
Questions? Contact learn@adea.org
Disclaimer
The purpose of this program is to educate and inform. Information provided in this program is not a substitute for professional care and is not intended for use in the diagnosis or treatment of individual conditions. Guests at this presentation express their own experience, opinions and conclusions, which do not necessarily reflect those of their employer or any organization or group with whom they may be affiliated. Expressed viewpoints and opinions by speaker(s), presenter(s), guest(s) and/or facilitator(s) are also not those of the American Dental Education Association (ADEA), ADEA staff or the ADEA Board of Directors. The mention of any product, service, organization, activity or therapy should not be construed as an endorsement by ADEA.
CE Information
ADEA is an ADA CERP recognized provider.ADA CERP is a service of the American Dental Association to assist dental professionals in identifying quality providers of continuing dental education. ADA CERP does not approve or endorse individual courses or instructors, nor does it imply acceptance of credit hours by boards of dentistry. Concerns or complaints about a continuing education (CE) provider may be directed to the provider or to the Commission for Continuing Education Provider Recognition at CCEPR.ada.org.
ADEA designates this activity for 1.0 continuing education credits.
CE credit is awarded for overall participation in the ADEA eLearn webinar, "Preparing Dental Students for Person-Centered Oral Health Care in Complex Care Interactions."
All speakers agree they do not have any financial relationships with commercial entities that may be relevant to their presentation.
Fábio R. M. Leite agrees that they do not have any financial relationships with commercial entities that may be relevant to their presentation.
Tamanna Tiwari acknowledges that they have a financial relationship with the National Institute of Health, CareQuest Institute for Oral Health and Delta Dental Institute that may be relevant to their presentation. All relevant financial relationships have been mitigated.
Fábio R. M. Leite, Ph.D., M.Sc., B.D.S.
Professor
University of Utah School of Dentistry
Dr. Fábio Leite is a professor of Population Health at the University of Utah School of Dentistry. His research integrates epidemiologic and mechanistic approaches to examine factors influencing oral health outcomes and access to care. He has authored more than 120 peer-reviewed publications and is among the most cited researchers in dentistry. His academic experience spans Australia, Brazil, Denmark, Singapore and the United States, where he has contributed to curriculum design and institutional initiatives focused on strengthening educational quality, clinical preparedness and learning environments in dental education.
Speaker agrees they do not have any financial relationships with commercial entities that may be relevant to their presentation.
Tamanna Tiwari, M.P.H., M.D.S., B.D.S.
Chair and Associate Professor
University of Minnesota School of Dentistry
Dr. Tamanna Tiwari is Chair and Associate Professor in the Department of Primary Dental Care at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry. She is a dentist with an M.P.H. from New York University. Her research focuses on prevention, oral health behavior change, quality improvement and medical–dental integration. Her work examines patient-related, behavioral, and systemic factors influencing oral health outcomes, with an emphasis on improving population oral health. She is a nationally recognized leader in oral health research and a recipient of the ADA Mid-Career Faculty Award for Evidence-Based Dentistry and the IADR Centennial Emerging Leaders Award. She has over 80 publications and 150 abstract presentations at national and international meetings and she disseminates her research both to the scientific community and to communities that participate in her research. Dr. Tiwari is funded by the National Institute of Health, CareQuest Institute for Oral Health and Delta Dental Institute. She is the Board Chair for the American Institute of Disparities in Public Health.
Dr. Tamanna Tiwari, speaker for this educational event, has received funding from the National Institute of Health, CareQuest Institute for Oral Health and Delta Dental Institute. All of the relevant financial relationships listed for this individual have been mitigated.
Technological Assistance
For technological assistance, please reach out to the ADEA eLearn team at learn@adea.org.
Content Questions
For questions related to the content or educational materials, please reach out to the ADEA eLearn team at learn@adea.org.
Membership Assistance
For membership related questions (e.g. login issues, password reset, etc.), please reach out to the ADEA membership team at membership@adea.org.
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Contains 2 Component(s) Recorded On: 05/20/2026
This webinar will share lessons learned from a four-year journey to integrate dental technology, from D1 to D4 at the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry. During this webinar, we will discuss the good, bad and ugly of curriculum innovation. Participants will learn three key elements for dental institutions to succeed in making dental technology accessible in their learning environment.
This session does not offer continuing education (CE) credit.
While dental education acknowledges the importance of integrating dental technology, staying relevant in the changing world of dental education and recruiting the best students, alignment on the best way to integrate dental technology into the curriculum to prepare future dental health professionals continues to be challenging. This webinar will share lessons learned from a four-year journey to integrate dental technology, from D1 to D4 at the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry. During this webinar, we will discuss the good, bad and ugly of curriculum innovation. Participants will learn three key elements for dental institutions to succeed in making dental technology accessible in their learning environment.
Note: This event does not offer continuing education (CE) credit.
Learning Objectives
- Differentiate the benefits of exposing first-year dental students to dental technology.
- Explain three key aspects of integrating dental technology for successful implementation.
- Create a checklist of criteria to determine the appropriate dental technology for your institution’s learning environment.
Original Release Date: May 20, 2026
Expiration Date: May 20, 2029
Questions? Contact learn@adea.org
Teaching Method: Lecture
Disclaimer
The purpose of this program is to educate and inform. Information provided in this program is not a substitute for professional care and is not intended for use in the diagnosis or treatment of individual conditions. Guests at this presentation express their own experience, opinions and conclusions, which do not necessarily reflect those of their employer or any organization or group with whom they may be affiliated. Expressed viewpoints and opinions by speaker(s), presenter(s), guest(s) and/or facilitator(s) are also not those of the American Dental Education Association (ADEA), ADEA staff or the ADEA Board of Directors. The mention of any product, service, organization, activity or therapy should not be construed as an endorsement by ADEA.
Alexandra Rodriguez, D.D.S., M.S. (Moderator)
Clinical Associate Professor
University of Illinois Chicago College of Dentistry
Alexandra Rodriguez, D.D.S., M.S., is a Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Illinois Chicago and serves as Director of Digital Dentistry for the Predoctoral Program. She has been actively engaged in CAD/CAM dentistry since 2010 when she did a Masters in Restorative Dentistry at the University of Michigan.
Over the past 10 years, Dr. Rodriguez has focused on the integration of CAD/CAM technologies into dental education—a rapidly evolving field that continues to inspire lifelong learning and innovation.
Dr. Rodriguez currently serves as Chair-Elect of the American Dental Education Association (ADEA) CAD/CAM Special Interest Group (SIG), reflecting her commitment to leadership and collaboration in digital dental education.
Stephen Sterlitz, D.D.S., M.S.
Restorative Division Chief
University of Kentucky College of Dentistry
Dr. Stephen Sterlitz is an Associate Professor at the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry and a retired U.S. Navy Commander with a career focused on advancing dental education and technology. He has extensive experience in CAD/CAM dentistry, helping integrate digital workflows into both clinical practice and academic curricula. During his Navy service, he led major technology initiatives, deploying over $15 million in dental technology equipment to modernize care for thousands of providers and patients worldwide. Passionate about biomimetics, adhesive dentistry and clinically relevant materials, he continues to push for curriculum innovation to better prepare dentists for modern practice.
Technological Assistance
For technological assistance, please reach out to the ADEA eLearn team at learn@adea.org.
Content Questions
For questions related to the content or educational materials, please reach out to the ADEA eLearn team at learn@adea.org.
Membership Assistance
For membership related questions (e.g. login issues, password reset, etc.), please reach out to the ADEA membership team at membership@adea.org.
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