Gran Canaria was honored to host EDENTULISM2023, a distinguished conference for dental experts, practitioners, and industry representatives from May 4-6, 2023. The three-day event saw participation from over 200 physicians, engaging in insightful discussions and expanding their professional networks. Esteemed authorities in the field of edentulous treatments shared their knowledge and experiences across a range of topics, including all-on-X, zygomatic implants, prosthesis, overdenture, geriatric dentistry and more. This collaborative platform offered an invaluable learning experience for those striving for advancement in dental care.

EDENTULISM2023, marked by an engaging series of 24-hour lectures, captivating presentations, lively roundtable dialogues, and unforgettable social functions, has set a new standard as a cornerstone for scientific discourse, networking prospects, and as a critical avenue to explore the latest methods and instruments for aiding edentulous patients. The gathering represents a beacon of knowledge and interaction, forging paths for advancements in patient care.

MAXIMIZING THE IMPACT ON PATIENTS

The inaugural day of the conference was launched with an inspiring opening address by Dr. Carlos Aparicio, the Founder, and President of the ZAGA Centers Network. In his address, Dr. Aparicio underscored the event's rigorous scientific foundation and spotlighted the 30 esteemed international speakers who were carefully chosen for their extensive expertise and scholarly contributions to scientific journals. Additionally, Dr. Aparicio accentuated the primary objective of the conference: to equip attendees with actionable insights and knowledge, based on strong empirical evidence, that they can integrate into their own practices, thereby elevating the standard of patient care.

The first day of the conference immediately dove into scientific discourse, featuring six enthralling presentations focusing on zygomatic implants. These were expertly delivered by Dr. Sepehr Zarrine, Dr. Jay Neugarten, Dr. Guy Mclellan, Prof. Chris Butterworth, Dr. Antonio Olivo, and Prof. James Chow. Attendees were given a comprehensive overview of diverse, yet complementary viewpoints concerning digital workflows, preventive measures, potential complications, and surgical techniques in relation to edentulous patient rehabilitation through zygomatic implants. The morning segment reached its peak with an invigorating roundtable discussion, guided by Prof. Chantal Malevez, which offered a vibrant platform for addressing the queries and concerns from the attendees.

ZAGA CENTERS PRIVATE MEETING

EDENTULISM2023 fulfilled a dual role: it was a comprehensive scientific conference and also the first face-to-face gathering of the ZAGA Centers Network in five years. An exclusive ZAGA dinner was held that brought all members together in a stunning venue to celebrate the collective achievements of the network. This occasion served not only to strengthen existing ties but also to foster future collaboration, underpinning an even more robust shared journey ahead.

FROM MIAMI TO TOKYO

Day two of EDENTULISM2023 provided an enriching learning experience for all attendees, featuring insightful sessions by eminent professionals such as Prof. Adi Lorean, Dr. Eduardo Nicolaievsky, Dr. Nick Egbert, Dr. Luca de Stavola, and Prof. Andre Chen during the morning hours. An exhaustive range of treatments was explored, from the atrophic mandible to the definition of terminal dentition, inclusive of soft tissue augmentation and state-of-the-art tools for full arch treatments. The day was seamlessly orchestrated by Dr. Jay Neugarten, who moderated the proceedings, ensured smooth interaction between the speakers, and fielded questions from the audience. The afternoon sessions brought further enlightening lectures from Prof. Chris Butterworth, Dr. Masami Ando, Dr. Luc Vrielinck, Prof. Anita Visser, Dr. Marco Rinaldi, and Dr. Michael Pikos. Under the guidance of Dr. Neugarten, the day concluded with an array of exceptional presentations, imparting invaluable insights and recommendations from these esteemed global speakers.

TIME TO CELEBRATE

As the day turned into the evening, all participants congregated at the Blue Marlin Sky Lounge in Gran Canaria for the eagerly awaited Cocktail & Tapas Social Event. In the enchanting surroundings, the suspenseful reveal of the social media contest winner added an extra layer of exhilaration to the proceedings. The fortunate winner was awarded a unique prize—a complimentary pass to one of the prestigious ZAGA Courses led by Dr. Carlos Aparicio. Amidst the stunning sunset and the engaging company of esteemed colleagues, the attendees savored a delightful evening filled with old friends and new acquaintances. This marked a fitting conclusion to the second day of the EDENTULISM2023 conference.

DAY 3, THE GRAND FINALE

Day three of the conference assembled an impressive array of speakers, each bringing their unique expertise to the table. The morning sessions hosted Dr. Costa Nicolopoulos, Dr. Petros Yuvanoglu, Dr. Fadi Yassmin, Dr. Ophir Fromovich, and Dr. Panos Papaspyridakos, while the afternoon spotlighted Dr. Jay Neugarten, Dr. Dan Holtzclaw, Dr. Ana Ferro, Dr. Pietro Ferraris, Dr. Giovanni Nicoli and Dr. Carlos Aparicio. The globally recognized speakers enlightened attendees with exceptional lectures, covering topics from the historical evolution and logic behind implant design to intricate prosthetic details for all-on-4 rehabilitations and a comprehensive overview of the ZAGA Concept.

WHAT THE PARTICIPANTS THINK

In line with the conference's dedication to perpetual enhancement, organizers carried out a detailed follow-up survey amongst all attendees with the intention of gauging their satisfaction and collecting invaluable insights to refine our future events. The survey results displayed an outstanding 97% satisfaction rate. Participants particularly underscored aspects such as the prompt scheduling, the caliber of the esteemed speakers, and the proficiency and cordiality of the organizing team.

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS!

The EDENTULISM2023 organizing team would like to express their deepest appreciation to all participants and speakers whose invaluable contributions made this conference an extraordinary occasion! Special recognition is also due to our esteemed sponsors, namely Straumann, Southern Implants, Bontempi, BTK, JDental Care, Akura, Sabina, and Saphir, for their generous support. 

The nation's leading oral health philanthropist releases its 2022 Community Impact Report highlighting its work to elevate health and wellness in all 50 states, D.C., and Puerto Rico

Today, the Delta Dental Institute, dedicated to advancing oral health for all Americans, released Delta Dental's 2022 Community Impact Report, "Our mission: your health. Our mission, your health." Last year, Delta Dental, the nation's leading oral health philanthropist, invested nearly $109 million to support programs, research, and advocacy that positively impacted over 20 million lives.

"We are proud to share our 2022 Community Impact Report, which demonstrates our unwavering commitment to advancing oral and overall health," said James W. Hutchison, President & CEO, Delta Dental Plans Association. "As the nation's largest provider of dental benefits, our broad reach and deep oral health expertise allow us to invest in our communities in ways that put all of us on a path toward a healthier and more equitable tomorrow."

The report, issued annually, tells the story of the impact that Delta Dental companies, their foundations, and community partners made last year to elevate the oral and overall health of their communities. These efforts focused on expanding access to oral health care, advancing health equity, building resilient communities, and innovating for a healthier tomorrow.

"At Delta Dental, we're focused on advancing health for everyone, which means closing the gaps in access to oral health care now and into the future," said Vivian Vasallo, Executive Director, Delta Dental Institute. "Through our mobile clinics, comprehensive care options for people with disabilities, research, and commitments to diversity, equity, and inclusion, especially in the oral health workforce, together we are helping to build a world in which everyone has a chance for a healthy smile."

Highlights from the report include:

Expanding access to care: Delta Dental supported dental treatment and prevention programs that helped 8.2 million people achieve better oral health, including community water fluoridation projects, school sealant programs, and low or no cost oral health care for underserved communities.

Advancing health equity: Delta Dental invested over $7.5 million to shape the next generation of the oral health workforce so it better reflects the diversity of their communities, and promoted oral health education and public awareness campaigns that reached 11.6 million people.

Building resilient communities: Delta Dental distributed $2.9 million toward disaster relief and related activities, largely through a long-term partnership with the American Red Cross, and employees from across the country volunteered over 24,000 hours to support their communities.

Innovating for a healthier tomorrow: The Delta Dental Institute sponsored research that found that increased communication and coordination between medical and dental providers improves health outcomes. Informed by this research, Delta Dental invested $2.2 million in medical-dental integration efforts to reduce barriers to care.

To accompany the report, Delta Dental also released a new video and digital story detailing its community impact work, including an interactive map showcasing specific initiatives in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico.

The full report is available online at cir.deltadental.com.

BIOLASE, Inc. (NASDAQ: BIOL), the global leader in dental lasers, today announced an arrangement with Pet Dental Services (PDS), the #1 non-anesthetic pet dental provider in the country, to integrate BIOLASE's diode laser technology. PDS' vision in the animal health care profession is to gain the trust and confidence of veterinarians throughout the country and to provide service through veterinary hospitals coast to coast. PDS has been providing anesthesia-free dental care for over 10 years and has established an excellent reputation among a network of more than 300 veterinarians.

Through adopting BIOLASE's diode laser technology, PDS will now provide veterinarians with one of the most cutting-edge care available for their pet patients. According to the American Veterinary Dental Society, 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of periodontal disease by the age of 3. In these cases, bacteria infects gum tissue and the roots of teeth resulting in disease and tooth loss. In addition to the negative impact on oral health, bacteria can also enter the bloodstream through the large blood vessels located near pets' gums and teeth. Organs with the highest blood flow are most susceptible to infections, including the lungs, heart, kidneys, liver and even the brain. Damage to these organs caused by infection can drastically shorten pets' lives.

"Our industry-leading diode laser technology is designed to be a great fit for a non-traditional dental care provider like Pet Dental Services," said John Beaver, President and Chief Executive Officer of BIOLASE. "With a focus on offering veterinarians and pet owners experience and expertise that is second to none, we believe Pet Dental Services promises the very best in anesthesia-free dental care for dogs and cats. The adoption of our innovative technology can help fulfill that promise. Not only does our technology treat periodontal disease, it can also help pets live healthier lives."

PDS' representative said of the partnership, "The integration of the latest dental technology is key to providing superb non-anesthetic patient care. Working with pets in this environment can be a challenge, but with the right techniques and tools–like BIOLASE's diode technology–pets too can enjoy the exponential benefits of excellent dental care. We strive to provide pet owners the most innovative care for their beloved pets. BIOLASE will help us to do just that."

Incisive Technologies has announced that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued 510K clearance for BlueCheck™ Caries Detection and Monitoring, a novel caries detection device used by clinicians in dental examinations to aid the detection of early caries (tooth decay). Early caries is the precursor to cavities and is recognised by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as the world’s most prevalent chronic disease.

BlueCheck specifically binds to active caries lesions and provides a visible blue color, aiding dental professionals by providing a direct and objective measure of disease. Covered by global patents for its novel mode of action; “by using the natural hydroxyapatite-binding chemistry of proteins the BlueCheck molecule has an affinity for and targets porous surface and sub-surface lesions” says Dr Jonathan Mangum, Chief Scientific Officer and inventor of the technology. “It is a specifically designed biomolecule, consisting of a protein, linker and dye, that selectively and reversibly binds to sites of dental demineralisation. BlueCheck is painted on, then a simple rinse washes away unbound BlueCheck, to reveal the active caries via the remaining bound blue color” he says. Due to the electrostatic interaction, removal of any bound BlueCheck is via brushing with toothpaste and interaction with saliva.

According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, dental caries affects more than 95% of Americans over their lifetime and leads to dental cavities, which require more invasive and costly restorations. “This decision represents a major milestone towards ensuring that millions of people in the US, especially those in underserved communities, have access to best-in-class oral health solutions with the potential to meaningfully improve health outcomes. As one of the early investors in Incisive Technologies, we believe in the significant market opportunity here, but we are most excited about the potential for BlueCheck to directly impact people’s lives for the better” commented Mariya Filipova, Chief Innovation Officer, CareQuest Innovation Partners.

The WHO in their briefing on the prevention and treatment of dental caries recognise that “minimally invasive intervention approaches avoid unnecessary pain, infection and permanent damage to teeth while preventing and treating caries” and BlueCheck’s aim is to support this by simplifying early caries detection. “Dentists are notoriously bad at determining if enamel tooth decay is active/progressing, needing prevention and what part of the dentin is infected tooth decay, needing removal. Indicators that aid the dentist in finding active enamel and infected dentin are extremely useful.” Joel White, DDS, MS, Distinguished Professor in Restorative Dentistry, Department of Preventive and Restorative Dental Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of California, San Francisco.

Incisive appreciates that despite all the advances in dental care, caries remains one of the most prevalent chronic diseases, even though it is largely preventable. “We saw that global experts and thought leaders are driving a shift to a prevention focus, whereby earlier detection of caries enables prevention medicaments to be used, effectively halting the demineralisation process. However, finding dental caries early is challenging. The use of BlueCheck lets clinicians quickly and accurately supplement their evaluation, thereby aiding the identification of early caries. Earlier diagnosis of dental caries is key to patient education, use of remineralisation therapies and ongoing monitoring for caries progression.” Kerry Hegarty, CEO, Incisive Technologies, states. “We’ve worked directly with dentists, orthodontists and research collaborators to understand how our technology can support that shift to uplift care and improve patient outcomes. Early detection of dental caries and the differentiation of their activity status has consistently been mentioned as a top concern, in part because of the challenges with caries diagnosis. What we understand is that BlueCheck gives the clinician objective evidence in detecting and monitoring early caries. Our aim is to help simplify the management of caries” Kerry says.

BlueCheck is the first product to be commercialised by Incisive Technologies. Incisive is committed to advancing oral healthcare and the company aims to equip oral health professionals with the tools they need to prevent cavities. Incisive Technologies will continue to work with leading clinicians, academics and stakeholders to support the drive towards earlier caries detection and improved prevention to support minimally invasive care. Incisive has a number of research and collaboration projects to understand BlueCheck’s role in clinical management and develop the technology for other innovations.

This technology is said to seamlessly integrate with standard of care aiding clinicians to find demineralization prior to cavities forming, “it has the potential to improve accuracy and efficiency of the routine examination” says Incisive CEO, Kerry Hegarty. BlueCheck will initially be launched in the United States of America, with other markets to follow and will be available from September through US dental sales and distribution channels.

You may have heard that President Joe Biden underwent root canal treatment Sunday and concluded it on Monday, allowing him to get back to his schedule. According to Reuters, the procedure went well without any complications – as is most often the case with this extremely safe and effective procedure.

According to our 2022 public survey, the American Association of Endodontists found that 87 percent of Americans wish they had taken better care of their teeth. But it's never too late! With root canals in the news, the AAE would like to take this opportunity to share what you might not already know about the procedure. You may find these facts surprising.

1. They are totally painless. That's right, root canals remove pain, not cause it, contrary to what you may have heard. They're the quickest, safest way to get you back to your normal schedule without missing a beat! Learn more here.

2. They can resolve your dental trauma. Crack a tooth? Find an endodontist immediately. Cases of cracked teeth have surged following the COVID-19 pandemic, so everyone's chances of experiencing cracks in their teeth have increased in recent years. Learn more here.

3. They can help you enjoy better overall health. That's right, a healthier mouth equals a healthier you. The 2022 AAE survey found that a whopping 77 percent of the public does not realize that poor oral health could be linked to heart attack; and 80 percent doesn't realize poor oral health could be linked to stroke. What's more: Research shared by the American Heart Association indicates that markers of bad oral health — including missing teeth and plaque buildup — are indeed associated with an increased risk of stroke. The researchers say their study adds to the current body of knowledge surrounding the link between poor oral health and negative health outcomes elsewhere in the body.

4. An endodontist is your greatest ally for tooth pain. While all endodontists are dentists, less than three percent of dentists are endodontists. Just like a doctor in any other field, endodontists are specialists because they've completed an additional two or more years of training beyond dental school. Their additional training focuses on diagnosing tooth pain and root canal treatment and other procedures relating to the interior of the tooth. In many cases, a diseased tooth can be saved with endodontic treatment. For this reason, endodontists proudly refer to themselves as Specialists in Saving Teeth.

Facts like these underscore the importance of root canal treatment and saving teeth. And there's no one better equipped to save teeth than an endodontist. If you're experiencing dental pain like President Biden was prior to his root canal treatment – or if you would simply like to learn more about endodontists and root canal treatment – visit findmyendodontist.com today!

BroadcastMed proudly announces the acquisition of Texere Publishing Ltd., an esteemed leader providing B2B media services to audiences in the UK, Europe, and the US. This strategic move underscores BroadcastMed's unwavering commitment being the leading healthcare marketplace to provide trusted clinical content, powerful engagement and industry insights to healthcare professionals, medical institutions and manufacturers, service providers, and pharmaceutical companies.

With this acquisition, BroadcastMed expands its total reach to over 3 million healthcare professionals across 16 adult specialties and 10 pediatric specialties worldwide. The official announcement was made today, supported by the strategic partnership with growth capital firm 424 Capital.

"Texere is thrilled to join forces with the innovators at BroadcastMed to better serve scientific and healthcare providers globally," said Andrew Davies, Texere Publishing's Co-Founder and CEO, "Joining forces with BroadcastMed aligns with our vision for growth and expands our reach by leveraging our combined expertise and resources to deliver even greater value to our audience and partners."

BroadcastMed's dedication to providing physicians and allied healthcare professionals with unparalleled content and leading-edge digital solutions align seamlessly with Texere's commitment to reporting on the latest research, societal impact, professional development, career, and business issues. This shared vision between BroadcastMed and Texere aims to improve patient outcomes through industry-leading clinical content.

"This acquisition furthers BroadcastMed's remarkable growth trajectory, as the company continues to expand the global conversation on healthcare," stated Peter Gailey, President of BroadcastMed. "Our acquisition of Texere widens BroadcastMed's global reach and enhances the company's impact, not only within the healthcare sector but also among audiences in the science and technology fields."

Design software from Amann Girrbach ensures simple and reliable workflow in the fabrication of restorations

The latest Upgrade 4.4 of the intelligent Ceramill software from Amann Girrbach provides users in the laboratory and dental practice with a broader range of indications, simpler workflows and high process safety. Improvements include more precise machining in the anterior tooth region using the C-Clamp for Ceramill Matik, bar-supported dentures as an indication exten-sion as well as numerous new scanning options for the Ceramill Map.

With the Upgrade 4.4 for Ceramill Map, Ceramill Mind and Ceramill Match 2, the range of functions of the intelligent Ceramill software has yet again been significantly expanded. New features include the C-Clamp blank holder for working with the Ceramill Matik, the bar overdenture as a new indication for use, angulated screw channels for titanium implant work, the Diamond Finish dry milling strategy, as well as a host of new functions for the Ceramill Map 600 and Ceramill Map 200 3D scanners. Also new is the dark mode display option for the entire user interface, which, in addition to its esthetic com-ponent, above all reduces eye fatigue in poor light conditions.

C-Clamp for Ceramill Matik offers even better results in the anterior tooth region

"The latest software upgrade provides users with numerous new features and additional simplifications in their daily workflow. We support our customers to enable them to create higher-quality restorations even more easily, quickly and cost-effectively," emphasizes Nikolaus Johannson, Head of the Global Business Unit Lab CAD/CAM at Amann Girrbach. The new features include the C-Clamp blank holder for the Ceramill Matik. This feature ensures better accessibility in the anterior tooth region and thus first-class milling results: Reworking of the connectors is no longer required, which saves time and sig-nificantly adds to convenience.

Bar overdentures as a new indication, Diamond Finish as a new milling strategy for composite blocs

An additional novelty is the now available indication of bar-supported removable dentures - the so-called bar overdentures. "The workflows involved in fabricating these dentures have been greatly sim-plified. While at the same time, ensuring maximum process safety," explains Johannson. Also new is the indication for angulated screw channels for titanium implant work. "With this feature, users on the one hand benefit from greater esthetic design freedom during finishing and on the other from even more flexibility due to the additional design options," says Johannson. Workflows are also optimized by the now integrated option of adopting the tooth shapes of old dentures when fabricating new full dentures. "Due to digital support, the functions of the new denture are improved while retaining the fa-miliar esthetics for the patient," emphasizes Johansson. In addition, the application options are ex-panded to include the new Diamond Finish milling strategy for composite blocs in all hardness grades, which ensures maximum precision and excellent surface quality, as well as a full 3D viewer which al-lows previewing in 3D without having to call up the CAD software.

Expanded scanning options: Free mode and Pre-Op Scans

There are also numerous new options for scanning in the current 4.4 Upgrade. The new "Free mode" scanning function makes scanning more flexible; among other things, the scanning sequence can now be freely selected. The extended "Comprehensive Scan" strategy is used to reduce the number of manual rescans, and the pre-op scans can now be combined with full denture impressions. "With the broad portfolio of the new upgrade, we ensure efficient, flexible and convenient working and also guar-antee the future security of the laboratory and dental practice," concludes Nikolaus Johannson.

All functions at a glance online

The list of all features of the Ceramill software as well as the extensions and additional functions of

Upgrade 4.4 can be found at https://www.amanngirrbach.com/en-gb/software/ceramill-mind.

U.S. Oral Surgery Management (USOSM) – a specialty management services company that exclusively serves premier oral and maxillofacial surgeons – is announcing three additional partnerships with oral and maxillofacial surgery practices. They include San Diego Surgical Arts of California, Bellaire Facial, Oral & Dental Implant Surgery of Texas and Olympic Peninsula Oral Surgery & Implants of Washington.

Founded in November 2017, USOSM was the first company of its kind, and it continues to lead the industry today with the nation’s largest and fastest growing network of premier oral and maxillofacial surgeons. It has more than 190 surgeon partners in 26 states, and a 100% partner practice retention rate.

“We’re excited to announce partnerships with San Diego Surgical Arts, Bellaire Facial, Oral & Dental Implant Surgery and Olympic Peninsula Oral Surgery & Implants. Each of these practices has a well-earned reputation for clinical excellence and exceptional patient care. These are values we share and look for in all of our partner practices,” said USOSM President and CEO Richard Hall. “We look forward to these partnerships and to our continued growth.”

Hall adds that the company’s growth has been fueled by several factors. Chief among them, is the fact that all of USOSM’s partner practices are of the highest quality.

“From the very beginning, we’ve formed partnerships with the industry’s top surgeons, who are leaders in their specialty. This is key to who we are and to our continued growth,” noted Hall.

About the new partners:

Each partner practice is led by board certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons – the highest credential that can be obtained in the specialty, according to the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.

Clement Qaqish, MD, DDS, of San Diego Surgical Arts has three board certifications. They include oral and maxillofacial surgery, facial cosmetic surgery and cosmetic surgery. Personalized and comprehensive patient care is the number one priority at this state-of-the-art facility. Dr. Qaqish offers a full scope of oral and maxillofacial procedures and cosmetic surgery treatments. Dr. Qaqish also is actively involved in medical missions, providing surgical care in developing nations.

Led by Phillip T. Iero, DDS, MD, FACS, Bellaire Facial, Oral & Dental Implant Surgery is a boutique practice located in Bellaire, Texas, in the greater Houston area. Dr. Iero practices the full scope of oral and maxillofacial procedures and specializes in complex dental implant cases, particularly full arch reconstruction with grafting and immediate temporization. A board certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon, Dr. Iero invests in the latest technology and takes the time to get to know each patient, so that he can provide them with the highest quality, personalized care.

Olympic Peninsula Oral Surgery & Implants specializes in comprehensive oral surgery care. Led by Alan L. Peet, DDS, the practice has two locations: one in Sequim and the other in Port Townsend. Dr. Peet is a board certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon with more than 30 years of experience, including his private practice, as well as serving as an U.S. Air Force oral surgeon, an oral and maxillofacial surgery residency educator and program director, and an oral and maxillofacial surgery board examiner. Dr. Peet and his team work together seamlessly to provide highly personalized and compassionate care to every patient from appointment scheduling, to post-op care and everything in between.

Headquartered in Irving, Texas, USOSM has partner practices spanning 26 states. A shared services organization, USOSM collaborates with premier oral and maxillofacial surgeons to offer a partnership solution for continued and accelerated practice success. USOSM provides operational, marketing and administrative support services, reinvests resources, and applies best practices to improve clinical and financial performance and produce steadier, more profitable growth for all. For more information, visit https://www.usosm.com/.

The American Dental Association (ADA) today announces acclaimed actress Constance Wu will kick off SmileCon™ 2023 in Orlando, Florida, on Oct. 5. Wu will share her personal journey and speak about wellness, one of the key themes at this year’s SmileCon.

Most known for starring in Warner Brother's romantic comedy hit “Crazy Rich Asians”, Wu received a Golden Globe nomination and a Critics Choice nomination for the role. Wu is also known for her career-launching work as Jessica Huang in ABC’s critically acclaimed comedy series “Fresh off the Boat” and, as a result, was honored as part of the TIME 100 Most Influential People in 2017. The series made Hollywood history as the first American Network TV show to center on an Asian American family in over 20 years.

In late 2022, Wu released a memoir titled “Making a Scene”, an essay collection that recounts her experiences growing up in suburban Virginia and navigating her early career as an actress, falling in and out of love, and discovering her self-identity. Wu also recently launched Tempo Wubato Pictures, a production venture that struck a first-look deal with eOne, where she and her vice president of development are actively producing scripted series. Wu holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting from SUNY Purchase's prestigious Conservatory of Theatre Arts and Film, where she trained in classical theatre.

“We are thrilled to have Constance Wu join SmileCon to address and inspire our ADA community, who like Ms. Wu, are passionate about their craft,” said ADA president Dr. George R. Shepley. “Her words will be a vital reminder to all who hear them that taking care of yourself is the first step in sharing your talents with others.”

SmileCon 2023 will take place Oct. 5-7 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando. Registration for the meeting opens June 7.

Visit ADA.org for more information on Constance Wu and the SmileCon Opening Session.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), the leading authority on children's oral health, installed new board officers and trustees during the AAPD 2023 General Assembly meeting on May 29 in Orlando.

Scott W. Cashion

PRESIDENT

Dr. Scott Cashion is a 1994 graduate of the University of North Carolina Adams School of Dentistry and finished his Residency and Masters in Pediatric Dentistry there in 1997. He is a board-certified pediatric dentist and a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. After 22 years in private practice in Greensboro, N.C., he sold his practice and joined the faculty at the University of North Carolina Adams School of Dentistry, Division of Pediatric and Public Health as an associate professor.

Cashion has served as a leader with the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD). He currently serves as the Vice President of the AAPD. In addition, he serves as the chair of the Pediatric Medicaid/CHIP Advisory committee and is Immediate Past President of the Medicaid/Medicare/CHIP Dental Services Association (MSDA). Cashion served on the Board of Trustees of the AAPD (2008-2011) and was Parliamentarian (2012-2013). In May of 2013 he was awarded the Merle C. Hunter Award for Leadership in the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.

Cashion currently serves as an ADA Delegate for the NC Delegation and has been a Delegate or Alternate Delegate since 2009. Cashion is a past president of the North Carolina Dental Society Foundation and current president of the North Carolina Services for Dentistry. In 2018, he completed his service on the ADA Council on Advocacy for Access and Prevention (CAAP, formerly CAPIR).

Cashion is past president of the North Carolina Dental Society (2015). He previously served on the Board of Trustees of the North Carolina Dental Society. Cashion is a member of the Guilford County Dental Society and served as president in 2005-2006. He was president of the North Carolina Third District Dental Society in 2004.

Cashion was awarded the North Carolina Dental Society's Commendation Award in 2007. He is a fellow in the International College of Dentists, American College of Dentists and the Pierre Fauchard Academy.

Cashion is involved in the Greensboro Community and served on the Board of Habitat for Humanity, is active in his church and is a member of the Greensboro Sports Council. He is an avid runner and has ran three marathons.

Scott D. Smith

PRESIDENT-ELECT

Dr. Scott D. Smith received his D.D.S. from the University of Michigan in 1986, and his M.S. in pediatric dentistry in 1988.Upon completion of his Graduate and Post-Graduate studies at the University of Michigan, Smith and his wife Debbie moved to Denver, Colo., to establish a private practice. He currently has offices in Denver and Centennial, Colo. In addition to private practice, he is an Adjunct Assistant Clinical Instructor at both the University of Colorado and at the University of Michigan, traveling back to Ann Arbor monthly.

Soon after arriving in Denver, he became involved in the Colorado Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the Metro Denver Dental Society, holding multiple offices with each group. In addition to being a founding member of the Rose Medical Center Cleft Lip and Palate/Craniofacial Anomalies Team, Smith has contributed to the Bright Futures Program with the American Academy of Pediatrics.

In 1996, Smith was appointed by the Governor of Colorado to the Colorado State Board of Dental Examiners and served as President of the Board from 2000–2004. During his tenure on the State Board he also served as an examiner for the Central Regional Dental Testing Service.

As a member of the AAPD, Smith has served on multiple Councils and Committees including Chair of Annual Session Local Arrangements Denver 2001, Council on Clinical Affairs Committee on Adolescent Health and the Council on Continuing Education. In June of 2017, he completed a three-year term on the AAPD Board of Trustees. In addition to Council and Committee Work, Smith has participated in the Leadership Institute at Kellogg and both cohorts of the Advanced Leadership Institute at Wharton.

Outside of his involvement in the AAPD, Dr. & Mrs. Smith enjoy an active Colorado lifestyle that includes skiing, cycling and fly fishing. Additionally, Smith plays ice hockey in an Adult Hockey League.

Thomas G. Ison

VICE PRESIDENT

Dr. Thomas G. Ison is owner of a private practice in Newburgh, Ind. He received his dental degree and certificate in pediatric dentistry from the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry and Chandler Medical Center in Lexington, Ky., and completed a Fellowship in Pediatric Dentistry at Indiana University School of Dentistry. He previously held appointments as an assistant professor at the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry and Chief of Dentistry at Norton Children's Hospital, in Louisville. He is a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. Currently the Parliamentarian of the AAPD, he has served as a consultant to the AAPD Council of Clinical Affairs, and as District III (now Southeastern) Trustee. While Trustee, he was on the Strategic Planning Committee and was liaison to the Council on Dental Benefits and AAPD PAC. He is a Past President of the Southeastern Society of Pediatric Dentistry and Kentucky Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Ison has been an examiner for the ABPD Oral Clinical Exam as well as committee member and part leader for the Renewal of Certification Examination. He resides in Evansville, Ind., with his wife, Connie, and daughter, Maggie.

Carlos A. Bertot

SECRETARY-TREASURER

Dr. Carlos "Charlie" Bertot received his dental degree from the University of Florida, College of Dentistry, and his certificate in pediatric dentistry from the University of Kentucky, Albert B. Chandler Medical Center. He became a Diplomate of the ABPD in 1996 and has been involved with organized dentistry since his days in dental school. In addition to his membership and service to multiple dental organizations, he is a past-president of the Florida Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and has served AAPD at the council/committee and board level. A past Parliamentarian for AAPD and current Southeastern District Trustee, Bertot is the managing partner of a busy pediatric dental practice in Maitland, Fla., a suburb of Orlando.

Bertot is a graduate of the AAPD Leadership Institute at the Kellogg School of Business, Northwestern University and the AAPD Advanced Leadership Institute at the Wharton School of Business, University of Pennsylvania. Together with his wife of 31 years, he enjoys spending time with family, traveling, and staying fit. Bertot is most proud of his three children. His son is currently an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery resident. His oldest daughter is a third-year medical student, and his youngest daughter is a college senior planning for a master's degree in psychology.

Anthea Mazzawi

AT LARGE/FEDERAL SERVICES TRUSTEE

Dr. Anthea Mazzawi is a board-certified pediatric dentist who has practiced dentistry for almost 20 years. Raised along the gulf coast of Florida, she earned a B.S. degree in Developmental Biology from Florida State University and a D.M.D. degree from the University of Florida College of Dentistry. She then completed a residency in pediatric dentistry at the Medical University of South Carolina. She is currently in private practice with her husband, Dr. Miles Mazzawi, who is also a pediatric dentist. Their practice, Cherokee Children's Dentistry, has been serving the needs of children in the greater Atlanta area since 2007. Mazzawi is passionate about working with children and serving as an advocate for all child related issues.

Mazzawi has been heavily involved with the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and organized dentistry throughout her career. She served as the president of The College of Diplomates of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry in 2018 and has also been a part of several committees and councils for the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Currently, she is the chair of the Scientific Program Committee for the Annual Session. She also serves chairman of the Greater Atlanta Dental Foundation Gala Committee (an event that raises funds to meet the needs of several free/reduced fee clinics in Atlanta), and the secretary for the GA Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.

Mazzawi is excited to serve as a trustee on the board of trustees for the AAPD. She looks forward to working with her colleagues, specifically the federal service membership, to promote for our profession and advance optimal oral health for all children.

Steven K. Rayes

ABPD DIRECTOR

Dr. Steve K. Rayes graduated from Indiana State University with a major in Biology and minors in Business Administration and French. He subsequently enrolled at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry and graduated as a general dentist. This was followed by a one year GPR (general practice residency) program that was completed through the Louisville VA medical center. To enroll in a loan repayment program with the Indian Health Service/US Public Health Service (IHS/PHS), Rayes applied to serve in the remote areas of Alaska. He was stationed in Dillingham, Alaska, followed by Kodiak, Alaska. After eight years of service as a General Dentist to the Alaska Native community and particularly the children in need, Rayes found his passion for pediatric dentistry. He was offered a full scholarship through the IHS/PHS and was enrolled back at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry for a Master's degree in pediatric dentistry. After graduation, Rayes returned to Anchorage to the Alaska Native Medical Center and Southcentral Foundation, where he worked as a staff pediatric dentist. He was instrumental in the development of a Pediatric Residency Program in which he was a faculty member until 2008, at which time he began as the Associate Director of the Graduate Program in Advanced Training in Pediatric Dentistry through NYU Langone-AK site. He holds a Certificate of Dental Education through the University of the Pacific in San Francisco, Calif. In 2015, Rayes relocated with his family to purchase a private practice in Vermont. He continues in full time private practice while teaching and providing OR services at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center. He also serves on the Executive Board of the Vermont State Dental Society.

Ann M. Bynum

SOUTHEASTERN DISTRICT TRUSTEE

Dr. Ann Bynum is originally from Ocala, Fla. She did her undergraduate training at Florida State University. She then attended dental school at the University of Iowa, where she met her husband, Dr. Matt Bynum. She did two further years of training in Pediatric Dentistry at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio, Texas. Bynum moved to Greenville, S.C., in 1997 and opened her practice in Simpsonville. She has three children of her own (all boys) and understands and appreciates the arts of pediatric dentistry and parenting.

Bynum is a Diplomate and Examiner of the ABPD, a member of the SSPD, the AAPD, and the ADA. She has lectured and written numerous articles on pediatric dentistry, customer service, marketing, leadership, and teamwork over the years. Over the last four years she has added teaching others about tongue ties, sleep and airway. She enjoys spending time with her husband and their three boys, Matthew, Luke, and John. She enjoys working on her practice and travelling.

Hakan Koymen

NORTHEASTERN DISTRICT TRUSTEE

Dr. Hakan Koymen is a board certified pediatric dentist in private practice in Baltimore, Md. He was born in Kalamazoo, Mich., and attended the University of Detroit-Mercy for dental school and University of Maryland for his pediatric dental residency. He has been dental director for the Maryland Healthy Smiles Program (Medicaid) in the State of Maryland for the last 13 years and has always worked hard to provide quality access to care to all children no matter what their background. He also served as the Northeast Trustee for the College of Diplomates of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry where he continued to serve all the way through his presidency in 2020. More recently, he has been very involved with the Academy being on the Council on Continuing Education, the Scientific Affairs Committee, and a part of Kellogg Leadership Institute VI. He also worked to create the new Mock Oral Board exams that are offered in conjunction with the AAPD Oral Clinical Exam Review Course. He looks to use his previous experience on committees and executive boards to help the Academy continue its pursuit to be the Big Authority on Little Teeth.

These appointees will join current members of the AAPD Board of Trustees for the 2023-2024 term.