NVDS CE PROGRAM – Local Speakers Seminar

Local Speakers CE Meeting - Earlier Start Time, More Speakers & More CEU's

In-Person Continuing Education Lecture

Full Day - 7.5 CE

**Registration Deadline 2/21/25**

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Local Speakers Listing

Amy Adair, DMD – “Going Out-of-Network: A Personal Journey as a Small Business Owner”

This presentation will guide the audience through the journey of transitioning to a non-contracted provider. It will begin with an analysis of a heavily PPO-dependent practice and the data utilized to inform the decision to move away from contracted status. The discussion will cover the steps taken to prepare for and implement the out-of-network process, addressing common questions encountered throughout this transition. Additionally, various data points will be compared to illustrate the impact of this change.

• Learn the basics of practice analysis and following trends in your own business
• De-mystify the process for becoming an out-of-network provider
• Provide general scripts for commonly asked questions of patients

Dr. Amy Adair is a board-certified pediatric dentist. She completed her undergraduate education at Indiana University before earning her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine. She joined the US Navy through the Health Professions Scholarship Program, with her initial assignment at Camp Lejeune, NC, which included deployment to Iraq. Dr. Adair was selected for specialty training and graduated from the Pediatric Dentistry residency program at Indiana University School of Dentistry/Riley Hospital for Children. Following her service at Walter Reed Bethesda, she transitioned to private practice in Northern Virginia, where she provides comprehensive pediatric dental care. Dr. Adair is committed to advancing the field of pediatric dentistry and is actively involved in several professional organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the Virginia Dental Association. She also contributes to dental education as a guest lecturer at the Naval Postgraduate Dental School in Bethesda, MD.

The session emphasizes the essential role of pediatric dentistry in holistic child healthcare. As board-certified pediatric dentists, the presenters advocate for a comprehensive strategy that merges traditional dental practices with holistic care, focusing on airway interventions from infancy to young adulthood. Explore orofacial development and how subtle signs in facial structure and behavior can indicate airway and breathing disorders. Learn about the significance of breastfeeding for both nutrition and facial development, as well as the benefits of chewing and nasal breathing. Understand sleep-disordered breathing, including its pathophysiology and the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to management and early interventions influenced by environmental factors, including maternal health. By integrating clinical expertise with practical case studies, participants will obtain actionable insights for early detection and intervention, fostering collaboration to improve long-term health outcomes for children.

• Understand the integral role of pediatric dentistry in holistic child healthcare, focusing on the diagnosis and management of airway and facial growth issues.
• Recognize the signs of underdevelopment in orofacial regions and their implications for airway health and overall child development.
• Learn the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in managing complex pediatric cases, including the roles of various healthcare providers in treatment and follow-up.
• Identify practical strategies for early intervention and prevention that can be implemented in clinical practice to improve health outcomes and developmental trajectories in pediatric populations.

Dr. Lynda Dean-Duru is a board-certified pediatric dentist in Ashburn, Viriginia and expert in integrative functional holistic pediatric dentistry. She earned her dentistry degree from the University of Benin and completed her General Practice residency at Howard University Hospital. She completed her Pediatric Dentistry Specialty Training from Children’s National Medical Center, Board Certification from the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, and Fellowship Laser Certification from the Academy of Laser Dentistry. She is a fellow of the U.S. Dental Institute and the prestigious Gnathos Orthodontic education group in Atlanta. She holds a certification in Orofacial Myology from the International Association of Orofacial Myology (IAOM). Dr. Dean-Duru is the first recipient of the National Lucy Hobbs Project Award for Clinical Expertise. Her practice focuses on addressing sleep-disordered breathing and other related health issues through a multidisciplinary approach, emphasizing early intervention.

Dr. Krystle Dean-Duru is a pediatric dentist at Ashburn Children’s Dentistry, inspired by her mother, Dr. Lynda Dean-Duru. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Columbia University in New York in Psychology and a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) from Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry. She completed a specialty pediatric residency training at the Interfaith Department of Dental Medicine in Brooklyn, New York, where she served in a leadership role as Chief Resident. She is also a proud Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. She specializes in integrative laser pediatrics and is a founding member of the Academy of Applied Myofunctional Sciences and a member of the American Academy of Physiological Medicine and Dentistry and the International Association of Orofacial Myology.

This session delves into the specialty of Orofacial Pain (OFP) and its critical role in dental and medical practice. Participants will explore why OFP was formally recognized as a specialty and learn about the wide range of conditions it encompasses, including temporomandibular disorders (TMD), sleep-related disorders like bruxism and obstructive sleep apnea, neuropathic pain, and cervicogenic headaches. The session will also cover differential diagnosis, evidence-based treatment protocols, and when to refer patients for specialized care. Real-life cases will be presented to illustrate classification, diagnosis, and management strategies in OFP. Attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of pharmacological treatments, such as the use of Botox and local anesthetics, and non-pharmacological approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy, to effectively manage complex pain conditions.

• Recognize the significance of OFP specialists and the need for more residency-trained professionals.
• Develop skills to apply evidence-based literature in managing sleep disorders, TMD, and neuropathic pain.
• Understand the differential diagnosis of somatic and neuropathic pain.
• Learn about interrelated anatomy impacting OFP conditions, including myofascial pain and cervicogenic headaches.

Dr. Carol Gabriel, DDS, DABOP, FAAOP, is a Board-Certified Orofacial Pain Specialist and a Diplomate of the American Board of Orofacial Pain. She completed a two-year Orofacial Pain Residency at the University of Kentucky, managing over 1,300 patients with conditions such as Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMD), and other oral pain disorders. Dr. Gabriel is highly skilled in treating a range of conditions, including Myofascial Pain, Trigeminal Neuralgia, Headaches attributed to TMD, Neuropathic Pain, and post-radiation oral cancer pain. Her treatments include splint therapy, oral appliance therapy for snoring and apnea, nerve blocks, and pharmacological approaches. She also offers cognitive behavioral therapy and smoking cessation support. Dr. Gabriel served on an expert panel for opioid use in dentistry and co-authored a paper in the International Journal of Oral Maxillofacial Surgery on opioid guidelines for dental procedures.

It is estimated 5-12% of the population in the United States may experience symptoms of TMJ Disorder (TMD) over their lifetime and 1-1.5% of the population develop TMJ arthritis. Most dental professionals and oral surgeons agree that TMJ is one of the more challenging disorders in our field. Often times, TMJ patients are left with nowhere to go. This lecture will open a new door that will enhance the quality of the care those patients receive.

• Identify patients with orthopedic TMJ problems that would benefit from surgery.
• Understand when to refer patients for a surgeon’s evaluation.
• Understand the advances in the minimally invasive surgical techniques of the TMJ.
• Understand the indications for more invasive open surgery.

Dr. Moe Hakim is a Harvard-trained, Board-Certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon with expertise in TMJ and jaw surgery. He graduated from NYU College of Dentistry before completing his residency at MedStar Washington Hospital, focusing on orthognathic surgery and dental implants. He then pursued a fellowship at Harvard, specializing in minimally invasive TMJ surgery under Dr. Joseph McCain, a pioneer in advanced TMJ arthroscopy. At the University of Michigan, Dr. Hakim introduced advanced TMJ arthroscopy techniques, co-founded the second TMJ surgery fellowship in North America, and developed a dental implant service for residents. He has earned a reputation as an international educator, lecturing worldwide and training surgeons in innovative surgical methods. Dr. Hakim's research emphasizes impact, with a focus on advancing TMJ surgery and oral and maxillofacial care. His published articles challenge conventional practices and promote new treatment approaches to improve outcomes.

Niloofar Mofakhami, DDS “Who Takes Care of YOU?”

We leave dental school wide eyed and ready to improve our community’s dental health. But then we are hit with the challenges of loan repayment, hectic schedules, challenging patients, running practices, never-ending to-do lists, trying to achieve work-life balance, and so on. It’s stressful and can take a toll on you. You take care of your patients, but who takes care of you? The goal of the session is to help dental professionals nurture themselves in order to rediscover joy and better serve their patients.

• To appreciate the numerous responsibilities that dentists juggle
• To recognize and deal with cycles of burnout
• To learn how to become more resilient to manage daily responsibilities and burnout
• To learn how to reduce stress and best take care of yourself

Dr. Niloofar Mofakhami, known to her patients as Dr. Niloo, is proud to serve the community she grew up in. Dr. Niloo attended the University of Virginia, graduated from the VCU School of Dentistry, and completed her residency in pediatrics at the Children’s National Hospital in Washington, DC. She is a Diplomate and board examiner of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry and a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Dr. Niloo has been a lecturer at dental and medical meetings and pediatric residency programs. After 20 years of operating her own practice in Oakton, Dr. Niloo has become a strong advocate for practitioner mental health and well-being. Recently, she founded Harmony Advising, a coaching and consulting business to help her colleagues attain balance in their lives. Dr. Niloo lives in Oakton with her husband, two sons, and rescue dog. Her interests include hiking, yoga, reading, and traveling.

Ali Nosrat, DDS, MS “Root-End Surgery (Apicoectomy): A "Crapshoot" or an Evidence-Based Treatment?”

Root-end surgeries, previously known as apicoectomies, are well recognized as evidence-based procedures with favorable prognosis and predictable short term and long term outcomes. The predictability of the outcome is related to newer technologies (3D imaging, magnification, and ultrasonics) and biomaterials introduced to the field of endodontics. In the past this procedure used to have an unpredictable outcome with a low success rate when clinicians did not have access to these innovations. Still there seems to be a gap in knowledge of general dentists and other dental specialists regarding the outcome of root-end surgeries. The purpose of this presentation is to bridge this gap through an evidence-based review of the literature combined with case-based presentations with long term follow up documentations. CBCT images of treated teeth before the procedure and at follow up will be provided to showcase the osseous healing over time.

• Describe the steps involved in root-end surgeries
• Describe the role of new technologies in successful outcome of root-end surgeries
• Describe the role of new biomaterials in successful outcome of root-end surgeries
• Describe the role of 3D imaging in planning, execution and follow ups after root-end surgeries

Dr. Ali Nosrat earned his DDS and MS in Endodontics from Tehran University of Medical Sciences in Iran and became board certified in Endodontics in 2007. He completed a second residency and earned a master’s degree in Oral Biology at the University of Maryland in Baltimore in 2015. He then became a Diplomate of the American Board of Endodontics in 2016. During his residency he was recognized with the Tony Michael Ponti Memorial Award for excellence in clinical Endodontics.  Dr. Nosrat has published over 64 articles in high-impact dental journals on endodontic topics including vital pulp therapy, root canal anatomy, resorption, pain, and COVID-19. He serves on the Scientific Advisory Board of the Journal of Endodontics, on the Editorial Board of the International Endodontic Journal, and on the Research and Scientific Affairs Committee of the American Association of Endodontists. Currently, Dr. Nosrat practices full-time at Centreville Endodontics in Northern Virginia and is a Dean’s Faculty at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry.

This session will provide a comprehensive review of mucogingival deformities around teeth, focusing on key classification systems and guidelines for when to refer to a specialist. Participants will explore treatment options for soft tissue graft surgery, complemented by a case presentation that highlights various approaches to soft tissue grafting performed on a single patient, showcasing results over a 12-18 month period.

• Enhance the general dentists' knowledge of mucogingival deformities
• Describe updated classifications
• Identify cases for referral to a periodontist
• Develop treatment goals and list of options available for patients

Dr. Shaghayegh (Rose) Sobhani is a native of Tehran, Iran, and a second-generation dentist. She earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from Tehran University of Medical Sciences, the leading dental school in Iran. Dr. Sobhani then completed a rigorous three-year residency in Periodontics at Columbia University in New York, where she also received a Master of Science degree, focusing on factors affecting the success of dental implants. During her time at Columbia, she was honored with several awards, including the Kenneth L. Siegel Scholarship Award for outstanding performance and recognition from the Northeastern Society of Periodontists for her scholarly achievements. A Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology and an active member of the American Academy of Periodontology, American Dental Association, Virginia Dental Association, and Northern Virginia Dental Society, Dr. Sobhani specializes in periodontal care, offering services such as surgical implant placement, bone and gum grafting, and periodontal plastic surgery.

Nicholas Thomas, MD, DDS “Botulinum Toxin for the General Dentist”

This session will review relevant concepts pertaining to botulinum toxin administration for the general dentist, focusing on both functional and aesthetic perspectives. Participants will learn how to treat myofascial pain and temporomandibular dysfunction with botulinum toxin, as well as pertinent aesthetic treatments, including the management of gummy smiles and decreased vermillion show.

• Review facial anatomy relevant to botulinum toxin administration.
• Understand the chemistry and physiology pertinent to botulinum toxin.
• Learn treatment techniques for myofascial pain using botulinum toxin.
• Explore treatment methods for temporomandibular dysfunction with botulinum toxin.
• Administration of botulinum toxin for aesthetic purposes.

Dr. Nicholas Thomas began his academic journey at the University of Michigan, earning his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree before pursuing his passion for medicine at Wayne State University, where he obtained his Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree. His dedication to Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery was solidified during his six-year surgical residency at Ascension St. John Hospital in Detroit, Michigan, where he honed his surgical skills and expanded his clinical expertise. Dr. Thomas then went on to complete a fellowship in facial cosmetic and reconstructive surgery in northern Virginia. His focuses include facial cosmetic surgery, namely facelift, rhinoplasty, and injectable neurotoxins, as well as corrective jaw surgery, facial trauma repair, and dental implants. He is committed to utilizing the latest advancements in surgical techniques and technologies to enhance patient outcomes. Dr. Thomas's blend of comprehensive education, specialized training, and dedication to excellence in patient care positions him as a well-rounded and empathetic surgeon in the field of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. 

The Northern Virginia Dental Society 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. See each course description for the number of continuing education credits designated by the Northern Virginia Dental Society.