Successful Women in Dentistry Conference

Achievements and influence of women celebrated at educational meeting

On Saturday, June 22, 2013, nearly 190 attendees gathered for the Successful Women in Dentistry conference that took place at the Pacific Dental Services Institute in Irvine, California. This 1-day event highlighted the inspiring achievements women have made in dentistry—how women are positively influencing the dental industry today and creating opportunities for the future.

The conference kicked off with a lyrical poem by Gina Loring, accomplished poet, vocalist, and workshop facilitator. Dr. Lindsey Robinson, president of the California Dental Association, then opened up the conference with remarks about how the greater dental environment is changing.

The keynote presentation, “Outlook for Women in Dentistry,” was given by Dr. Kathleen T. O’Loughlin, executive director of the American Dental Association. Dr. Lee Ann Brady, master of ceremonies and director of education and president of Lee Ann Brady LLC., discussed how to stay ahead of the curve with CEREC® CAD/CAM techniques and materials. Presenting best practices for utilizing implants in one’s practice was Dr. Cherilyn G. Sheets, prosthodontist, international educator, author, and researcher.

An accomplished speaker and a practicing dentist at the largest dental lab in the United States, Dr. Mike DiTolla presented some humorous and entertaining reasons why women make great dentists. Dr. Cari Callaway-Nelson, a dentist and owner of three dental offices in Las Vegas and Reno, Nevada, shared her personal experiences on balancing her career and personal life in today’s world.

All proceeds from registration fees, a donation of more than $11,000, went to the conference’s philanthropic partner, National Children’s Oral Health Foundation®: America’s ToothFairy. The National Children’s Oral Health Foundation is dedicated to eliminating preventable suffering from pediatric dental disease by providing programs and comprehensive resources to deliver community-based critical preventive, educational, and treatment services.

Conference sponsors included Ivoclar Vivadent®, Nobel Biocare®, Crest®, Oral B®, Sirona Dental Inc., and Henry Schein®.