The Thomas P. Hinman Dental Meeting -- the nation’s leading dental meeting and comprehensive source of continuing education in dentistry – has opened registration for Hinman 2018, which will be held March 22-24 at the Georgia World Congress Center (GWCC) in Atlanta, Georgia. The 106th annual meeting offers dental professionals the opportunity to earn up to 21 hours of continuing education (CE). In addition, new, in-depth courses have been added to a roster of nearly 300 courses and workshops presented by 80 speakers.

“We expect a great turnout this year with dental professionals taking advantage of our world-class educational program, face-to-face networking opportunities and unsurpassed Southern hospitality,” said Dr. Patrick Yancey III, General Chairman for Hinman 2018. “Attendees can expect to discover 31 new speakers, as well as some of the profession’s favorites, and leave the meeting truly inspired to return to their practice and provide great dentistry to their patients.”

Registration opened on Dec. 5 and attendees can secure their courses and events online at www.hinman.org. Attendees can take advantage of lower fees by registering before Feb. 22, 2018.

This year, the meeting has added several new and in-depth sessions to its lineup of continuing education, including:

· “Understanding the Concepts of Endodontics: A Hands-On Workshop” Fr119 – Dr. Ralan Wong, March 23, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. (one-hour lunch break)

· “Introduction to Implant Dentistry: Hands-On Placement with Models” Sa147 – Dr. Michael Pruett, March 24, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. (one-hour lunch break)

· “Women and Their Money: A Road to Retirement,” (Sa366) -- Ms. Megan Brinsfield with Motley Fool Wealth Management, March 24, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

· “Maximizing Pediatric Airways with Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta” Sa276 – Dr. Erik Bauer, Dr. Steve Goudy and Dr. Michael Sebastian, March 24, 8 – 11:30 a.m.

In addition to Hinman’s continuing education program, Hinman 2018 will feature nearly 400 companies -- located in the Building A Exhibit Hall. Exhibitors will showcase new technology, equipment, products and services for the entire dental staff. New this year, Hinman will offer “Free Advice” booths in the exhibit hall where Hinman members will provide guidance on a number of hot, relevant topics. The exhibit hall will be open on Thursday, March 22, 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Friday, March 23, 9:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.; and Saturday, March 24, 9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Among a variety of social, alumni and networking events, Hinman’s signature social events include:

· James Farmer Book Signing & Coffee – Best-selling author, Southern Living editor-at-large and professional garden, floral and interior designer, James Farmer, will speak Thursday, 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. and sign his newest book, A Place to Call Home. Fee: $25.

· Opening Keynote Session – World-renowned forensic pathologist, Dr. Bennet Omalu, will speak at the Keynote Session held Thursday, 5:30 – 7 p.m. Fee: Free to registered attendees.

· Hinman Luncheon with Roland Mesnier – Hosted at the Capital City Club, Roland Mesnier will share stories from his time in the White House. He was hired in 1979 by first lady Rosalyn Carter and served as Executive Pastry Chef under five Presidents over 26 years. The luncheon is held Friday at 11:45 a.m. – 1:45 p.m. Fee: $70.

· Dental Student Happy Hour – Dental students are invited to a Happy Hour in the Hinman Hoops area of the exhibit hall to kick-off Friday evening from 4 - 5 p.m. Attendees can enter-to-win fabulous prizes as well as receive two free drinks. Fee: Free to registered dental students that pre-register for the event.

· Hinman’s Night Out at the Georgia Aquarium – Hinman takes over the Georgia Aquarium and invites all registered dental professionals to the masquerade-themed event held Friday from 7 - 10:30 p.m. Fee: $40 for registered attendees with a reduced price of $20 for students and residents.

· Atlanta History Center and Swan House Tour – Saturday, between 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m., tour 33 acres of award-winning exhibitions, historic houses, enchanting gardens, interactive activities and more. This includes a docent-led tour of the historic Swan House. Transportation provided. Fee: $40.