Conferences: Home of free pens, stale candy and awkward small talk?

When I left corporate America to join my wife in founding Alcan Dental Cooperative, I thought that I would never have to attend a tradeshow again. Oh how wrong I was. I soon found myself inundated with tradeshows on my calendar. I thought great, just another series of dog and pony shows that I have to attend. I walked into my first AAPD and tried to repress my skepticism of the tradeshow industry.

And then a funny thing happened: I started making new contacts. I ran into new companies with innovative solutions on both the clinical and administrative side of the practice. I was exposed to incredible networking events and met a lot of amazing people. Must have been a one-off, a fluke.

Not so. I can honestly say that I get the same value out of each and every conference I’ve attended in the dental industry. There is so much change happening in pediatric dentistry right now that would be impossible to keep up with from the sidelines. This article is my attempt to convince you to get out and attend more conferences.

Pediatric dentistry is a specialized field requiring constant updating of skills, knowledge, and networking to ensure the highest standards of care for young patients. One of the most valuable opportunities for professional growth and advancement in this field is attending conferences specifically tailored for pediatric dentists. These events offer a unique convergence of education, innovation, and professional networking, making them indispensable for any pediatric dentist committed to excellence.

Advancing Knowledge and Skills

Conferences are treasure troves of educational resources. Attendees have access to a wide array of seminars, workshops, and lectures conducted by leading experts in pediatric dentistry. These sessions cover the latest research findings, emerging trends, and innovative techniques in the field. By participating in these educational activities, pediatric dentists can enhance their clinical skills, stay updated on the latest best practices, and gain insights into new treatment modalities that can improve patient outcomes.

Exploring Cutting-Edge Technologies and Products

The exhibition floors of these conferences are filled with booths showcasing the latest advancements in dental technology and products specifically designed for pediatric care. From state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to innovative treatment equipment and new dental materials, these tradeshows offer pediatric dentists the opportunity to explore and evaluate the latest offerings in the market. This firsthand experience with cutting-edge technologies can help them make informed decisions about incorporating new tools and products into their practices, ultimately enhancing the quality of care they provide.

Networking and Professional Collaboration

One of the most significant benefits of attending a conference is the opportunity to network with peers, mentors, and industry leaders. These events bring together a diverse group of professionals from various regions and backgrounds, creating a vibrant environment for the exchange of ideas and experiences. Engaging in discussions with fellow attendees can lead to valuable collaborations, mentorship opportunities, and the sharing of practical tips and strategies for overcoming common challenges in pediatric dentistry.

Continuing Education Credits

Many tradeshows offer continuing education (CE) credits for participating in their educational programs. These credits are essential for pediatric dentists to maintain their professional licenses and certifications. By attending tradeshows, dentists can fulfill their CE requirements while simultaneously gaining new knowledge and skills that can directly benefit their practice. This dual benefit makes attending these conferences a highly efficient way to stay compliant with licensing requirements and stay at the forefront of the field.

Exposure to Diverse Perspectives

Conferences often feature international participants, providing exposure to diverse perspectives and approaches to pediatric dental care. Learning about different techniques, cultural practices, and healthcare systems can broaden a dentist's understanding and inspire new ways of thinking about patient care. This global perspective is particularly valuable in an increasingly interconnected world where pediatric dentists may encounter patients from various cultural backgrounds.

Inspiration and Motivation

The dynamic and stimulating environment of a high-quality conference can reignite a dentist's passion for their profession. The excitement of discovering new technologies, the inspiration from expert speakers, and the camaraderie with fellow professionals can boost morale and motivation. This renewed enthusiasm can translate into a more positive and energetic approach to patient cadre and practice management.

Industry Insights

As I stated before, the pediatric dental industry is experiencing change at a speed that is almost unfathomable. The worst thing that an independent or small group practice owner can do is bury their head in the sand and hope it all blows over. From DSO influence to insurance carrier direction, conferences are one of the best sources for information on where the industry is headed.

Conclusion

Most people have no idea how much it costs a dentist to attend a conference. Sure there are the direct costs: flights, hotel, conference fees, meals, etc. But the real cost lies in shutting the practice down for a day or two. When you factor the opportunity costs in, attending a conference can easily cost a dentist $20,000.

I would argue that the benefits of attending will far exceed the costs of not attending.

Attending tradeshows for pediatric dentists is an investment in professional growth and the future of pediatric dental care. These events offer unparalleled opportunities for education, networking, and exposure to the latest innovations in the field. By participating in tradeshows, pediatric dentists can enhance their knowledge, skills, and professional connections, ultimately leading to improved patient care and a more fulfilling career. For any pediatric dentist committed to staying at the cutting edge of their profession, tradeshows are an invaluable resource that should not be overlooked.

Here's a quick and dirty list of some of my favorite conferences:

AAPD Annual Conference

Inner Circle Conference

Tequila and Tongue Ties

Crown Council

You never know who you are going to meet

Locate an AAPD event! Click here!

Alcan Dental Cooperative Conference Schedule 2024

(Click below for more info)

2024 MAPD Fall Event- Charlevoix County, MI- September 13-15

2024 FAPD Annual Meeting- Orlando, FL October 19

2024 ASDA National Leadership Conference- Chicago, IL November 8-10

Registration for Inner Circle 2025 is now open!

Save the date of February 6-8, 2025 at the Gaylord Palms in Orlando, FL. With limited space available for the first 150 dental practices that register, don’t miss out on this exclusive opportunity to participate in a truly unique conference experience.

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