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Thursday Presentations

Part 1: Reconstructive Excellence: Diagnosis and Treatment Considerations Simplified
Jim Downs, DMD
Thursday, January 29, 8:30-11:30 am

A simplified approach to diagnosis and occlusal theory for everyday dentistry. We will go through when to do an additive or reductive approach in treatment understanding. This will take us to case designing predictable results through large cases and comprehensive treatment. The training in this session will include tissue framing, 3D Tooth Preparing with a structure that works, temporization, case segmentation and use of snowcaps, and end with lab communication that dials in cases every time. We will have a Live Patient Intake portion in this session.

How to Achieve Better Clinical Results in the Current State of Dental Implantology
Alexandre Molinari, DDS, MSc, PhD 
Thursday, January 29, 8:30-11:30 am
Since the concept of osseointegration was discovered in the 1950’s by Professor Brånemark, many studies have shown high success rates centered around the functionality of dental implants with no regard for esthetics. The longevity of an implant inserted into bone is no longer an issue, but the longevity of the crowns over these implants is now more important, not only from the functional aspect but also from the esthetic point of view. Another important aspect to be observed is the way the soft and hard tissues behave once an implant receives function.

Diagnosis of TMDs and Other Orofacial Pains 
Thomas Weber, DDS, MS
Thursday, January 29, 8:30-10:00 am 

This course reviews the types of orofacial pain (OFP) and their characteristics with an emphasis on temporomandibular disorders.

Going Digital: IOS and 3D Printing for Modern Dental Practice
Jim Collis, CDT 
Thursday, January 29, 8:30-10:30 am

This lecture takes a practical, straightforward approach to bringing your dental practice into the digital realm. We’ll start with the fundamentals of intraoral scanning, how it operates, why it’s important, and what benefits it provides for your workflow, diagnostic accuracy, and patient experience. From choosing the right scanner to training your team and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll leave with a clear roadmap for integrating IOS into your practice, whether you’re just getting started or looking to upgrade. Then we will focus on how 3D printing technology is revolutionizing in-house appliance fabrication. You’ll learn to design and print custom trays, night guards, crowns, and dentures using a streamlined, repeatable process that enhances efficiency without compromising quality.

Surgical Extraction of Third Molars
Rachel Uppgaard, DDS
Thursday, January 29, 8:30-10:00 am 

For the dentist who is a beginner at extracting impacted third molars, this lecture will guide the provider on how to approach impacted third molars from consultation to flap design, from bone removal to sectioning, and from delivery to closure of the surgical site. This course is ideal for someone who is looking to expand their practice and build on what they learned in dental school.

Commercial Real Estate 101
Roshan Kalra, DMD
Thursday, January 29, 8:30-11:30 am 

This course will be a crash course on how a dentist can look at and evaluate if a Commercial Real Estate (CRE) deal is right for them as well as live deal analysis at the end. We will go over the language used in CRE and how to read the subtext of an offering. We will go over common pitfalls and mistakes made by new investors. We will also go over when it makes sense to buy the Commercial Real Estate your practice is located in.

Green Dentistry: Cannabis & Teeth? What You Need to Know About Cannabis and Oral Health
Barry Taylor, DMD
Thursday, January 29, 8:30-11:30 am (repeats at 2:00)

Marijuana, also known as Cannabis, is the most common used illicit drug in the United States. Thirty-five states currently have legalized marijuana for medicinal purposes, while over 20 states have legalized it for recreational use. It is estimated that over 10% of the US population uses marijuana at least once a year. This course is an unbiased and evidence-based presentation of marijuana and its role in dentistry. We will present an introduction to the history of marijuana and trends pertaining to its use. Next, we will provide a basic science review regarding the Cannabis plant, the drug marijuana, and the Endocannabinoid System. We will review how marijuana use affects oral and general health. Finally, we will address areas of possible dental research related to cannabinoids.

Utah Medicaid Dental Program
Jennifer Strohecker, PharmD
Thursday, January 29, 8:30-10:00 am (repeats Friday morning)

The session will provide a comprehensive overview of the Utah Medicaid dental program’s vision and recent updates. We will explore key policy changes, including reimbursement structures and new covered services, as well as broader program updates that impact dental care. The presentation will highlight the valuable opportunity for dentists to serve the community while ensuring fair compensation and financially productive practice. 

Dentists, Hygienists, and Cows
Brandi Hooker Evans, RDH-ER, MHE
Thursday, January 29, 8:30-11:30 am 

What do cows have to do with it anyway? Learn how to leave the herding mentality behind while simultaneously cultivating a patient-centered, evidence-based, and naturally profitable periodontal therapy program. We will be farming team unity and career satisfaction in a way only the smallest number of dental professionals have ever seen. Round up your entire team for this class!

Desiccation therapy – A New Frontier in Managing Dysbiotic 
Oral Disease 
Anne Guignon, RDH, MPH, CSP
Thursday, January 29, 8:30-11:30 am 
Pathogenic biofilms play a huge role in the development, and exacerbation, of inflammatory diseases. For years clinicians have searched for easier and more effective ways to disrupt and eradicate dysbiotic biofilm communities. Desiccation therapy using an FDA approved, patented technology offers a unique pathway that benefits the patient, clinician, and practice.

Desiccation therapy uses a distinctive sulfonated compound that affects how deposits attach to a surface microscopically. The compound disrupts biofilm EPS and destroys polymicrobial communities even in deep periodontal pockets or areas with complex anatomy. Properly used desiccation therapy results in a coagulated gelatinated mass of denatured calculus and soft biofilm, necrotic tissue, and blood, making the coagulum easier to remove with conventional nonsurgical periodontal debridement techniques. The result is faster, more complete healing.

You Are SO Much More Than a Spit Sucker! Redefining the Role of the Modern Dental Assistant – Part 1
LaShae Steele, CDA 
Thursday, January 29, 8:30-10:00 am 

Today’s dental assistant is more than a helper — they’re a vital partner in creating exceptional patient experiences. In this first session of the series, you’ll focus on the consultation and diagnostic side of modern chairside dentistry. Through live hands-on videos and lecture, you’ll learn how to strengthen case acceptance, master diagnostic tools, and elevate your role as a true clinical partner. It’s time to stop minimizing your role and start maximizing your impact!

Rockstar Teams: Building a Front Office That Shines
Laura Nelson, MS
Thursday, January 29, 8:30 – 11:30 am

A dental practice isn’t a one-person show—it’s a full band. And when every player knows their part, the result is magic. This session is all about the front office and support team that keeps the beat going. We’ll share real-world strategies to help you rock your role, collaborate like pros, and build a practice culture where everyone feels valued and supported. No more “front vs. back-office battles”—just one rockstar team that shines together.

How To Attract Your IDEAL Patients
Justin “Rusty” Curtis
Thursday, January 29, 8:30-10:00 am

Feeling dead inside because you aren’t seeing the patients that you actually want to? Exasperated because you aren’t doing the dentistry you trained for? You are NOT relegated to only taking insurance patients. Your best hope is NOT wishing upon a star that more exciting cases will waft through your door. YOU have the power to attract your ideal patients. In this course you will nab the know-how to become irresistible to your ideal patients and reinvigorate your career!

Mastering Endodontic Techniques with Reciproc® Blue: A Comprehensive Onboarding Course for Doctors

Speaker: TBA
Thursday, January 29, 8:30-11:30 am
This intensive onboarding course is designed for Doctors who have recently acquired Reciproc® Blue files. Through a combinations of lecture, clinical case studies, and interactive discussions, participants will gain a deep understanding of utilizing Reciproc® Blues files effectively in their practice. This course aims to enhance clinical proficiency, ensure procedural success, and optimize patient outcomes.

Bone Grafting, Suturing and Surgical Management of Patients
Rachel Uppgaard, DDS
Thursday, January 29, 10:15 – 11:45 am

For the dentist who is looking to expand their surgical management of patients from what they learned in dental school, this lecture will cover techniques on suturing, bone grafting for socket preservation, and management of soft tissue via suturing, and overall surgical management of patients with emphasis on preoperative optimization, intraoperative modifications, and postoperative management of complications.

Orofacial Pain: History and Exam Techniques
Thomas Weber, DDS, MS
Thursday, January 29, 10:15-11:45 am

This course provides guidance on obtaining a patient history and performing examination techniques to help attendees to accurately diagnose orofacial pain conditions and uncover contributing factors.

You Are SO Much More Than a Spit Sucker! Redefining the Role of the Modern Dental Assistant – Part 2
LaShae Steele, CDA
Thursday, January 29, 10:15-11:45

Building on Part 1, this second session dives into the restoration and clinical techniques that transform treatment from good to great. With hands-on videos and lectures, you’ll explore effective isolation, restorative workflows, and efficiency strategies that allow you to contribute to predictable, beautiful outcomes. Step into the spotlight as a confident, skilled, and indispensable part of the clinical team.

Where Are We Now With Fluoride?
Johnny Johnson, DMD, MS
Matt Jacob, BA
Lorna Koci, BA
Thursday, January 29, 10:15 – 11:45 am

Understandably, many wonder where we are now with fluoride. This session will bring attendees up to date on the status of fluoride use in Utah and nationally.  Renown American Fluoridation Society speakers will explore options for fluoride use and their effectiveness and will also provide tips on how to best talk with patients about fluoride. Concerns regarding compounds that are being suggested as possible alternatives to fluoride will also be discussed. Information on the “Utah Your Smile Matters” campaign which is designed to increase public awareness of oral health care will also be presented by Utah Oral Health Coalition participants.

Kicking Insurance To The Curb
Justin “Rusty” Curtis
Thursday, January 29, 10:15-11:45 am

Debilitating discounts, prolonged reimbursement periods, never-ending hoops to jump through, and exploding labor costs have pushed dentists to their breaking point. They’ve HAD IT with insurance. But to effectively drop insurance, a practice must have a sound plan and a steady hand at the helm. “Kicking Insurance to the Curb” will equip attendees with the how, what, when, and where to successfully sever ties with insurance for good.

Creating Long-Lasting Patient Outcomes: No Scaler Required
Michelle Strange, MSDH, RDH, CDIPC
Thursday, January 29, Noon – 1:30 pm

The role of a dental hygienist has been primarily centered around calculus removal. However, it’s essential to question the rationale behind this focus. Is calculus truly the cause of dental disease? Taking a step back from our routine scale, polish, and floss procedures, we must critically examine why we use a scaler on the tooth and whether polishing away stains may have unintended consequences. Instead, what if we reevaluate our patient care process, with behavior change and motivation taking precedence during appointments?

Part 2: Reconstructive Excellence: Material consideration, Bonding for Success and Case Presenting
Jim Downs, DMD
Thursday, January 29, 2:00-4:00 pm

Predictable Restoration placement will be covered as a continuum to the first session.  We will discuss material understanding and bonding/cementation of these restorations that will simplify seat time. In addition to simplifying seat time, we will go through techniques that will minimize your clean-up. Increasing case longevity through testing timing and force of your occlusion will be reviewed with tools and equipment that protect your masterpieces.  Lastly, effectively dealing with patient objections and presenting with value, to receive YES to this type of dentistry every time. This session will include a Live Patient Intake portion.

Pearls for Pain Management
Thomas Weber, DDS, MS
Thursday, January 29, 2:00-4:00 pm

This course reviews management strategies for orofacial pain with an emphasis on temporomandibular disorders.

Green Dentistry: Cannabis & Teeth? What You Need to Know About Cannabis and Oral Health
Barry Taylor, DMD
Thursday, January 29, 2:00 – 5:00 pm (repeat from morning)

Marijuana, also known as Cannabis, is the most common used illicit drug in the United States. Thirty-five states currently have legalized marijuana for medicinal purposes, while over 20 states have legalized it for recreational use. It is estimated that over 10% of the US population uses marijuana at least once a year. This course is an unbiased and evidence-based presentation of marijuana and its role in dentistry. We will present an introduction to the history of marijuana and trends pertaining to its use. Next, we will provide a basic science review regarding the Cannabis plant, the drug marijuana, and the Endocannabinoid System. We will review how marijuana use affects oral and general health. Finally, we will address areas of possible dental research related to cannabinoids.

From Rock Bottom to Significance: A Dentist’s Journey
Incorporating and Prioritizing Physical and Mental Wellness for Agency to Manage Stress and Enjoy Life
Brett Kessler, DDS
Thursday, January 29, 2:00 – 4:00 pm

ADA Past President Dr. Brett Kessler shares his journey of resilience, describing obstacles he overcame along his path to service as a clinician, leadership in organized dentistry, and triumph as an elite athlete. Dr. Kessler will inspire the attendees to take care of themselves in all dimensions of wellness and live with intention to experience their best lives.

Adhesives: Why Your Stuff Doesn’t Stick
Shea Bess, DDS
Thursday, January 29, 2:00-4:00 pm

In this course you will be shown research showing adhesive strengths of various adhesives on the market today. You will learn specific techniques to increase your bond strengths and things you can do to decrease sensitivity.

The Silent Witness: Burned, Decomposed, and Mutilated – How Teeth Still Speak and the Critical Role of Dental Records
Kel Faddis, DDS, BS
Thursday, January 29, 2:00-4:00 pm (WARNING: Graphic photos will be shown)

This lecture explores how forensic odontology provides answers in the most challenging identification cases, where bodies are burned, decomposed, mutilated, or otherwise unrecognizable. Participants will examine the resilience of dental structures, the critical role of accurate dental records, and real-world cases where teeth were the sole witness to the truth. Emphasis will be placed on how historic or routine dental records become essential tools in criminal investigations, mass disaster response, and human identification.

LECTURE AND LIVE DEMO
How to put a FEE to your work: Function, Esthetics, and Excellence:                                               
3D Printing and Naturalizing Dentures in The Modern Practice
Jim Collis, CDT
Thursday, January 29, 2:00 – 5:00 pm

This lecture demo course is designed for dental professionals looking to enhance the quality and aesthetics of their removable prosthetics using cutting-edge 3D printing technology. The session begins with a targeted lecture on the importance of upgrading prosthetic workflows, not only for efficiency but to achieve a higher standard of patient care through improved fit, enhanced Function, outstanding Esthetics, and Excellence (FEE). After the lecture, attendees will engage in a live, step-by-step demonstration of denture naturalization using Pac-Dent’s 3D Printable Denture Base resin and the new Palett 2.0 N2-free staining kit.

 

Beyond the Bite: Empowering Patients With Comprehensive TMJ Self-Management 
Allen J Davis, DMD 
Thursday, January 29, 2:00-4:00 pm

Temporomandibular joint disorders affect millions of patients, yet many dental professionals struggle to provide comprehensive, long-term solutions beyond traditional dental interventions. This lecture introduces an evidence-based patient education course framework that empowers patients to take active control of their TMJ symptoms while enhancing the value of dental practice services.

Teamwork That Transforms Sedation Days
Stuart Shellingberger, CRNA
Thursday, January 29, 2:00 – 5:00 pm
This presentation introduces dentists and dental assistants to the essential roles they each play while providing dental treatment during in-office anesthesia as part of a coordinated dental team. Participants will learn how to identify appropriate patients, prepare the office and staff for anesthesia day, and understand their role in supporting safe and effective care. Emphasis will be placed on how the entire dental team can work together to enhance patient safety, improve comfort, and increase efficiency during dental procedures.

 

 

 

 


 

 


Friday Presentations

Exhibitors

If you are interested in being an Exhibitor at the 2026 UDA Convention, please contact Dotty.  dotty@uda.org

ABC Dental Recycling
ADIT
Air Techniques
AMD Lasers
Andau Medical
Arrowhead Dental laboratory
Artcraft Dental Inc
Aseptico, Inc
Bank of America Practice Solutions
BioGaia Probiotics
BISCO
BQ Ergonomics
Brasseler USA
Colgate
Collection Professioans Inc
Complete Wealth Care
Crest & Oral B
CTC Associates
CUTCO
DDSmatch
Dental Cooperative
Dental Design Systems
Dental Health Products Inc
Dental Intelligence
Dentist's Choice Handpiece Repair
Designs for Vision Inc
Doctors Staffing & Resourses Inc
Doral Refining Corp
Dr Jen Oral Care
Epic Dental Studios
Esthetic Implant Solutions
Everlasting Whites
Farm Bureau Financial Services
Garfield Refining
Garrison Dental Studios
Glidewell Dental
Hawaiian Moon
Hu-FriedyGroup
Impladent LTD
Interstate Specialties
KTUTAH LLC
Live-Right
LumaDent
Mango Voice
Medi Loupes
Mountain Land Collections
My Practice My Business
Neodent
New Dentist Committee to UDA
Nobel Biocare
NSK Dental
Orascoptic
Parsons Behle & Latimer
Planmeca
Practice by Numbers
RGP Dental
Specialty Dentures Studio
Stratus AI
SurgiTel
The Local Guy
ThePracticeConsultant.com LLC
TuttleNumbNow
U of U School of Dentistry
Ultradent Products Inc
Ultralight Optics Inc
VOCO America Inc
WaFd Bank
Xlear

Other Events

Team Luncheon

UDA Reference Committee

UDA House of Delegates