Topic Descriptions

The following three topics will be covered during the two 3.5 hour sessions.

“I Want a (Really) New Drug!”

"New” Illicit Drugs, New Illicit Uses For Licit Drugs and Management of Substance Use Disorder

Substance use disorder (SUD) affects millions of individuals and presents unique clinical, ethical, and interpersonal challenges in dental practice.

This program provides dental professionals with the tools to recognize the oral and behavioral manifestations of SUD, manage treatment safely and compassionately, and navigate the complexities of care coordination, relapse risk, and stigma.

From the dental implications of “new” or novel opioids, to synthetic cannabinoids and the emerging and concerning illicit use of licit medications, participants will explore evidence-based approaches to providing non-judgmental, trauma-informed, and effective dental care to this vulnerable population.

Learning objectives:

• Define Substance Use Disorder (SUD) and describe its relevance to dental health and patient management
• Recognize the oral and systemic signs of common and not-so-common substances of misuse, including the illicit use of licit medications
• Identify the potential complications of SUD during dental treatment, including drug interactions, anesthesia risks, and infection concerns
• Understand legal, ethical and documentation considerations when treating patients with known or suspected SUD

“Sweet Dreams (Are NOT Made of This)!”

The GLP-1 Revolution: Diabetes, Obesity Drugs, and What They Mean for Dentistry

Diabetes, as well as its numerous systemic complications, is often accompanied by and is exacerbated by numerous other co-morbid conditions.

This program will provide participants with an overview of diabetes mellitus, the arsenal of medications used in its treatment and the complex interplay between diabetes and the oral-systemic disease.

Special emphasis will be placed on the use of new GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) agonists, such as Ozempic (semaglutide), and dual-action GLP-1/GIP (gastric inhibitory polypeptide) agonists, such as Mounjaro (tirzepatide), for the treatment of diabetes as well as their use in the management of obesity.

Learning objectives:

• Identify the different types of diabetes, including symptoms and differential diagnosis
• Describe the complex interplay of diabetes and periodontal disease as well as the origins of the oral-systemic connection
• Review the various classes of medications used in the treatment of diabetes mellitus and its numerous co-morbidities
• Explore patient management strategies essential for successful treatment planning and proper patient care

“Talkin’ ‘Bout My Generation (Alpha)!”

Strategies For Effective Pharmacologic Management of Pediatric Dental Patients

Pediatric patients are frequently prescribed medications that can significantly influence their oral health, behavior, and dental treatment planning.

This program provides an in-depth review of the most commonly prescribed medications for children and their implications in dental care. Participants will learn how to recognize medication-related oral side effects, manage dental complications, and communicate effectively with caregivers and prescribing physicians to optimize treatment outcomes.

Designed for all dental professionals, this program emphasizes interprofessional collaboration and evidence-based strategies tailored to pediatric patients.

Learning objectives:

• Identify commonly prescribed pediatric medications across medical specialties
• Describe the oral and systemic side effects of these medications and how they influence dental treatment planning, preventive care, and behavioral management
• Communicate effectively with caregivers and pediatricians regarding medication risk, oral health impacts, and collaborative care strategies
• Apply best practices for documentation and patient education in pediatric medication-related dental care
  

Register now!

Refund and Cancellation Policy: As of 5:00 pm on Monday, November 2, no refunds will be given for cancellations. Attendees who have registered but do not attend and have not paid will be invoiced for the full amount after the event.