April 15-18, 2026 | Salt Lake City
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AAE26
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Includes Credits
CE Hours: 0.75
Description: This presentation highlights the development and clinical integration of an AI-driven diagnostic and teleconsultation platform designed to optimize decision-making in endodontic care. The system enables pre- and post-treatment validation through deep learning algorithms trained on annotated radiographs to assess root canal indications, extraction needs, and case difficulty. Secure, real-time telecommunication tools allow general practitioners (GPs) and endodontists to engage in case discussions and streamlined treatment planning. The platform integrates an AI-based triage and scheduling module that prioritizes appointments based on diagnostic urgency. Clinical pilot studies demonstrate improved diagnostic concordance, more accurate case difficulty grading, and enhanced workflow efficiency. By combining AI-powered analysis with expert-driven validation and scheduling automation, the system promotes higher treatment confidence, reduced unnecessary referrals, and better patient outcomes. The platform is fully validated, regulatory-ready, and positioned for commercial launch, offering a scalable solution for modern endodontic practices.
Learning Objectives:
- Describe the role of AI in pre- and post-treatment diagnostic validation for endodontic procedures.
- Evaluate the clinical benefits of secure teleconsultation for improving diagnostic accuracy and workflow efficiency.
- Discuss how AI-integrated scheduling based on case complexity can streamline patient triage and optimize resource utilization.
Hamid Abedi, DDS, MS, MBA
Dr. Hamid Abedi, DDS, serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Endodontics at the School of Dentistry, Loma Linda University, located in Loma Linda, California, USA. Also, he is President of Cornerstone Dental Specialties in Irvine, CA. He has over 20 pubications and has authored 2 chapters in Endodontic text books. In addition he holds 4 patents in the field of of dentistry.
Disclosure(s): Cornerstone Specialty Products: Ownership Interest (stocks, stock options, patent or other intellectual property or other ownership interest excluding diversified mutual funds) (Ongoing)
Max Foroughi, PhD
Dr. Max Foroughi is an innovator, entrepreneur, and academic leader in biomedical engineering, dental science, and medical device development. He is the Founder & CEO of Biomedisca, Inc., advancing infection diagnostic devices, and serves as Assistant Professor at the University of the Pacific. With over 12 years of experience, Dr. Foroughi earned his Ph.D. in Dental Materials from Isfahan University of Medical Sciences and completed postdoctoral training in Regenerative Dentistry at UCLA. His expertise covers biomaterials, manufacturing, FDA regulatory pathways, and full-cycle medical device development. He holds four U.S. patents, has authored 100+ peer-reviewed papers with nearly 9,500 citations (H-index 47), and written Mastering Medical Device Development along with textbook chapters on dental materials and AI in endodontics. His innovations have received international recognition, including three gold and two silver medals at global competitions.
Disclosure(s): No financial relationships to disclose
Mohammad Moshirpour, PhD
Associate Professor, Department of Informatics Donald Bren School of Information & Computer Sciences, University of California, Irvine
Disclosure(s): No financial relationships to disclose
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Includes Credits
CE Hours: 1.0
Description: Up until recently the only drugs available to manage acute dental l pain were acetaminophen, aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and opioids. NSAIDs cannot be taken by a variety of patients due to poor renal function, a history of GI ulcers, drug allergy or sensitivity and for the possibility of adverse drug interactions with anticoagulants and lithium. Opioids are wrought with acute side effects including dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting and constipation. Their potential to cause substance misuse, physical dependence and addiction are also well described. On January 30, 2025 suzetrigine, a novel voltage gated sodium channel 1.8 (Nav 1.8) blocking agent was granted FDA approval for the management of moderate to severe pain. By selectively blocking the Nav 1.8 it is hoped that side effects will be less numerous and severe compared to drugs that indiscriminately block other Nav subtypes such as anticonvulsants and local anesthetics.. Unlike opioids, suzetrigine also appears to be devoid of addiction potential. In two Phase 3 post-surgical pain trials on research patients who underwent bunionectomy or abdominoplasty, suzetrigine was significantly more effective than placebo, but its analgesic effects were only equivalent to acetaminophen 325 mg plus hydrocodone 5 mg (APAP 325 mg/HYDRO 5 mg) respectively. These results are somewhat disappointing with regards to postsurgical dental pain where 440 mg naproxen sodium or APAP 500 mg plus ibuprofen 400 mg (APAP 500 mg/IBU 400 mg) have been demonstrated to provide superior analgesic effects when compared to APAP 650 mg/HYDRO 10 mg or APAP 300 mg/HYDRO 5 mg respectively. This presentation will discuss the genesis of dental postsurgical pain, the nomenclature and anatomical locations of various Nav channel subtypes and suzetrigine's possible utility and limitations in treating orofacial pain. Suzetrigine represents only the first step to optimize the selective blockade of Nav channels to treat various patient maladies.
Learning Objectives:
- Discuss the mechanism of action of suzetrigine
- Discuss the advantages and limitations of employing suzetrigine in the treatment of acute dental pain
- Identify which patients should not receive analgesic regimens that contain ibuprofen or naproxen sodium
Elliot V. Hersh, D.MD, M.S., Ph.D
Dr. Elliot V. Hersh is currently a professor of pharmacology/oral surgery at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. He received his D.M.D. degree from New Jersey Dental School UMDNJ in 1981 and his M.S. and Ph.D. degrees from UMDNJ Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences in 1983 and 1988 respectively. Since arriving at the University of Pennsylvania in 1988, Dr. Hersh has won the Dental School's Excellence in the Teaching of Basic Science Award 24 different times and was also presented with a University Lindback Award in 1993, the highest teaching honor in the entire university. He has published more than 200 scientific articles, abstracts and book chapters in the areas of dental pharmacology, drug interactions, analgesics and local anesthetics. His scholarly and research contributions in the areas of local anesthesia and pain control were recognized by the International Association of Dental Research in 2007 when he was presented with the Distinguished Scientist Award in Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology. He is currently collaborating with Dr Katherine Theken at PENN in trying to identify presurgical biomarkers that may predict the analgesic response to NSAIDs. "While the research accolades are nice, the most important thing I do is sharing this knowledge with my students and other dental professionals."
Disclosure(s): NIH/NIDCR: Grant/Research Support (Ongoing)
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Includes Credits
CE Hours: 1.5
Description: This lecture provides an evidence-based framework for choosing between nonsurgical retreatment and endodontic microsurgery in the management of apical disease. Content includes CBCT-driven diagnosis to distinguish missed anatomy from potential extra-radicular infection; assessment of restorability and retreatment feasibility in the presence of posts, cores, and iatrogenic complications; and the impact of prior treatment quality, lesion size, and patient factors on prognosis. We will discuss the data on survival, success, and complication profiles for retreatment vs microsurgery. Through real-case examples I will highlight stepwise decision making, microsurgical considerations relative to adjacent anatomic structures and how to identify high-risk scenarios, and follow-up intervals that meaningfully access healing. Attendees will leave with a practical way to select the least invasive, predictable pathway to resolution of periapical pathology.
Learning Objectives:
- Differentiate clear indications and contraindications for nonsurgical retreatment versus endodontic microsurgery using CBCT findings, prior treatment quality, lesion size, and patient factors.
- Assess retreatment feasibility in teeth with posts, cores, or iatrogenic defects, and compare predicted outcomes-survival, success, complications-of nonsurgical retreatment versus microsurgery.
- Select and justify the least invasive, most predictable treatment pathway; outline key microsurgical considerations relative to adjacent structures when indicated; and define follow-up intervals and healing criteria.
Martin J. Rogers, D.D.S.
Martin J. Rogers, DDS, is a full-time endodontist in private practice at Best Endodontics of Glenview and is an Assistant Clinical Professor in the Department of Endodontics at the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC). He earned his DDS from UIC in 1992, completed a General Practice Residency at Illinois Masonic Medical Center-serving as chief resident the following year-and received his Certificate in Endodontics from UIC in 1996.Dr. Rogers has held a part-time faculty appointment at UIC since graduation and currently serves as course director for Endodontic Microsurgery in the postgraduate program. His academic interests include local anesthesia and pain control, microsurgical techniques, and rotary instrumentation. He has authored peer-reviewed publications and lectures frequently to professional audiences.He is a past president of both the Illinois Association of Endodontists and the Edgar D. Coolidge Endodontic Study Club. He has served the American Association of Endodontists on multiple committees, including Dental Benefits, Membership Services, Clinical Practice, and Public and Professional Affairs.
Disclosure(s): No financial relationships to disclose
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Includes Credits
CE Hours: 1.5
Description: Technologies continually evolve to satisfy the demands of emerging microsurgical techniques but are not limited to the classical endodontic surgical armamentarium. The most recent example is the implementation of the Piezosurgical technique for root end surgery. Heightened awareness of significant vascular elements via pre-surgical CBCT surveys mandate cautious sectioning processes. Restrictive soft tissue access hampers effective retraction for conventional surgical handpieces. Substantial cortical plate thicknesses combined with unusual anatomy can confound the most experienced surgeon. All these factors present the dichotomy of visualization/manipulation versus post-surgical regeneration. The featured clinical cases highlight the adaptability and versatility of this new technology in this challenging surgical arena.
Learning Objectives:
- Contrast the visibility and precision of root end procedures performed using Piezo versus conventional handpiece
- Assess the adaptability, visibility and precision of this technology for "novel" surgical corrections.
- Evaluate the tissue selectivity of the Piezo and its advantages in certain clinical environments
Stephen P. Niemczyk, DMD
Dr. Niemczyk graduated from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, receiving his D.M.D. in 1982 and his postgraduate Endodontic certificate in 1984. Since 1995, Dr. Niemczyk has been the Director of Endodontic Microsurgery at the IB Bender Postdoctoral Endodontic Program at Albert Einstein Medical Center in Philadelphia, and was recently named the Assistant Program Director in 2018. He is the 2020 recipient of the AAE Calvin D. Torneck Part-Time Educator Award, and also serves as a surgical consultant to the Naval Postgraduate Endodontic Program at the Walter Reed National Medical Center in Bethesda, MD, and the U. S. Army Endodontic Residency Program in Fort Gordon, GA.
Dr. Niemczyk has lectured extensively in the U.S., Central America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia on topics ranging from Microsurgery and Intentional Replantation to advances in Non-Surgical Endodontics and Cone-Beam CT. He has authored numerous papers, chapters on Microsurgery in Dental Clinics of North America, Ingle’s Endodontics 7th Edition and CBCT in Non-Surgical Retreatment. He is a member of the Scientific Advisory Board for the Journal of Endodontics and the Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Medicine and Pathology. He is the founder of Endodontic Microsurgical Innovations, dedicated to the development of new treatment techniques and instrumentation. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Endodontics, and maintains a full-time practice limited to Endodontics in Drexel Hill, PA.Disclosure(s): No financial relationships to disclose
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Includes Credits
CE Hours: 1.5
Description: Systemic diseases and the medications used to treat them play an important role in the incidence and prevalence of endodontic disease and in the healing following endodontic treatment. This presentation will examine recent data on chronic systemic medications and outline important considerations for clinicians as they discuss the treatment plan and prognosis with patients and interact with other health providers regarding the optimal care of the patients.
Learning Objectives:
- Describe the level of evidence in the literature on the association of systemic medications and endodontic diseases and their treatment outcomes.
- Describe systemic medications with potential effects on endodontic case incidence and presentation
- Describe systemic medications that may influence the outcome of endodontic treatment.
Ashraf F. Fouad, D.D.S., M.S.
Dr. Fouad obtained his DDS, Certificate of Endodontics, and MS at the University of Iowa.
He served on the faculty and in various administrative roles at the University of Connecticut, the University of Maryland, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He is currently Professor and Chair, Department of Endodontics, Director, Advanced Endodontics Program, and Interim Director, Health Information and Business Systems (HIBS) at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
Dr. Fouad has published over 120 peer-reviewed manuscripts, 62 editorials and invited manuscripts, 25 textbook chapters, and over 150 abstracts. He edited and co-authored several editions of the textbooks: Endodontic Microbiology and Endodontics: Principles and Practice. He served as Associate Editor of the Journal of Endodontics for 15 years and is currently Associate Editor of Dental Traumatology and the Endodontics Section of Frontiers of Dental Medicine. He is a Diplomate and Past President of the American Board of Endodontics. He received the Distinguished Scientist Award from the Pulp Biology and Regeneration Group of the IADR in 2017, the AAE President's Award in 2022, and the International Grossman's Award in 2023.
Disclosure(s): No financial relationships to disclose
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Includes Credits
CE Hours: 1.5
Description: Dental professionals often examine the physical aspects of wellness, yet we rarely explore or discuss the mental aspects. It is time to remove the taboo and face the facts. Anxiety, pain, depression, burnout. Dentistry can be difficult and take a toll. Studies show us that dental professionals experience a high incidence of mental illness. Additionally, many dental professionals don't clearly understand the mental health conditions that our patients present with, which red flags to watch for or what to do/how to intervene. Presented in Dr. Joshua Austin's trademark comedic style, this course explores strategies for working together to improve mental health so we can be our best. Learn how to recognize triggers and warning signs. Identify essential tools and resources. Discover how and when to refer to a mental health professional. Explore and understand mental health terms, common treatments and therapy options. Gain coping mechanisms and learn how to manage expectations - both our own and those of our patients.
Learning Objectives:
- Define mental health terms and analyze mental health statistics
- Illuminate common DSM-5 diagnoses and characteristics
- Review neuropsychopharmacology and how these drugs affect the stomatognathic system.
Joshua Austin, DDS
Joshua Austin, DDS maintains a full-time restorative dentistry practice in San Antonio, Texas. He is an editorial director and monthly columnist for Dental Economics magazine focusing on dental products and technology. Dr. Austin lectures around the country and world to study clubs and dental meetings about these topics along with Ortho/Restorative Treatments and mental health. Dr. Austin is a graduate of the UT Health School of Dentistry and spent five years post-graduation in the Department of Restorative Dentistry. In 2024, Dr. Austin won the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and Seattle Study Club Case of the Year."
Disclosure(s): Align Technology: Consulting and lecturing (Ongoing); Care Credit: Honorarium (Ongoing); GC America: Consultant (Ongoing); Ivoclar: Consulting (Ongoing); Solventum: Consultant (Ongoing); Voco: Consultant (Ongoing)
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Includes Credits
CE Hours: 1.0
Description: Studies have shown that the non-specific elimination or significant reduction of bacterial load below a certain threshold is critical for the healing of apical periodontitis. However, an important question remains: do specific bacterial species or phylotypes that persist following endodontic treatment influence the clinical outcome, and can they be regarded as independent risk factors? Moreover, there is a need to more precisely define the bacterial threshold below which favorable periapical healing is likely to occur.
Learning Objectives:
- Discuss the prognosis of endodontic treatment.
- Examine the impact of preoperative microbial burden and the efficacy of bacterial reduction on the clinical success of endodontic treatment.
- Discuss the differences in the microbial composition of primary versus persistent endodontic infections, and how these variations influence periapical healing and treatment outcomes.
Homan Zandi, D.D.S, Ph.D
Dr Zandi graduated from University of Oslo with DDS and Endo specialty certificate. He also earned a PhD on Antibacterial and clinical outcome of retreatment of teeth with infection at University of Oslo, Dental school. He is part-time assistant professor at the same faculty and maintains a referral practice in endodontics in Oslo, Norway.
Disclosure(s): No financial relationships to disclose
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Includes Credits
CE Hours: 0.75
Description: Surgical repair remains the most predictable and long-term effective treatment for External Cervical Resorption (ECR), with evidence-based supporting it success over follow-up periods up to 10 years. This surgical approach enables the preservation of pulp vitality in early stages, enhancing both structural resistance and overall prognosis. The surgical repair permits cleaning correctly the affected area with different instruments and techniques. Establishing a standardized surgical protocol is critical to achieve consistent clinical outcomes. Careful selection of the restorative material is essential and must be chosen according to the lesion's location, size, and accessibility. This presentation outlines the clinical indications for surgical intervention in ECR and proposes a step-by-step treatment protocol based on a series of clinical cases with a minimum follow-up of one year. Additionally, it provides evidence-based recommendations for selecting the most appropriate filling materials to optimize outcomes.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify which ECR cases require surgical treatment.
- Describe a step-by-step protocol for the surgical management of ECR.
- Compare different restorative materials for ECR considering critical factors such as defect location and extent.
Nicolás Ferraro
Dr. Nicolás Ferraro Saldías is an endodontist and professor. He graduated as the top student in his class from Universidad Mayor, Chile, in 2006, where he received his DDS degree and later completed his specialty training in Endodontics (2009). He also earned a Master's degree in Education from the same institution.Dr. Ferraro is the current President of the Chilean Endodontic Society (2025-2026) and a member of the American Association of Endodontists. He notably served as President of the 13th IFEA World Endodontic Congress, held in Santiago, Chile, in 2022.He is an Assistant Professor in the Postgraduate Endodontics Program at Universidad Finis Terrae and Universidad del Desarrollo, where he also coordinates the undergraduate Endodontics course. In addition, he is a visiting professor in the Endodontics specialization programs at Universidad de la Frontera and Universidad de Talca.Recognized as "Best Professor of Dentistry" at Universidad del Desarrollo in 2020, Dr. Ferraro has an extensive record of publications and research in endodontics. He has lectured nationally and internationally on topics including root resorption, endodontic access, management of separated instruments, and clinical tips in endodontics, presenting in Argentina, Colombia, Mexico, the United States, Spain, France, Italy, and Austria.Since 2007, Dr. Ferraro has maintained a private practice limited to endodontics, incorporating advanced microscopic techniques into clinical care.
Disclosure(s): No financial relationships to disclose
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Includes Credits
CE Hours: 1.5
Description: As periodontists and endodontists, we strive to extend the lifespan of the natural dentition, and to restore a diseased tooth to health and function. The endo-perio lesion poses a challenge to this goal. This presentation will discuss the pathobiology of the endo-perio lesion and review treatment algorithms that have resulted in successful management of these teeth.
Learning Objectives:
- Explore the microbial etiology of the combined end-perio lesion
- Discuss treatment alternatives for these cases
- Explore when implants are a more viable option than retaining the affected tooth
Purnima S. Kumar, DDS, PhD
Dr. Purnima Kumar is the William and Mary K. Najjar Endowed professor of Dentistry and Chair of the Department of Periodontology and Oral Medicine at the University of Michigan. She received her dental degree from Annamalai University in India, and her Masters in Periodontology and PhD in Molecular Microbiology from The Ohio State University. She is a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology and a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement for the Sciences (AAAS), Executive Leadership in Academic Medicine (ELAM), the International College of Dentists, the American College of Dentists, the Pierre Fouchard Académie and the AADOCR. She has authored over 100 papers and book chapters and is the Associate Editor of Periodontology 2000 and Senior Editor of Microbiome. She is an active researcher, clinician, teacher, and administrator, has mentored several pre-dental, dental, master's, doctoral and post-doctoral students and junior faculty, and has served on several grant review panels for the NIH. She serves on the budget committee and science strategy committee of the AAP. She completed her term as the Chair of the Continuing Education Oversight Committee for the AAP and as the Chair of the Council of Scientific Affairs of the ADA in 2024 and is their official spokesperson on e-cigarettes and vaping. Dr. Kumar has served on various committees of IADR and is presently the Past-President of the Periodontal Research Group. She is a member of the board of directors of the Osteology Foundation and the American Academy of Periodontology Foundation. She also serves on several taskforces for women in science, women in surgery and women in STEM and volunteers for groups that empower women locally and nationally.
Disclosure(s): No financial relationships to disclose
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Includes Credits
CE Hours: 1.25
Description: Instrument separation remains one of the most complex complications in endodontic practice. This course explores both the science behind file fracture and the innovations designed to prevent it. Attendees will gain a clear understanding of the mechanical and metallurgical factors that lead to separation. The microstructural behavior of NiTi alloys-phase transformations, proprietary heat treatments, and advanced surface processing-will be explained in practical, clinical terms. Equally important, participants will learn predictable strategies for managing separated instruments. Techniques such as CBCT-guided planning, ultrasonic troughing, microtube and loop systems, bypassing, and minimally invasive access will be presented with emphasis on dentin preservation and outcome success. Decision-making protocols will guide clinicians in evaluating case difficulty, preserving dentinal structure, and identifying when surgical intervention is warranted. Designed for endodontic specialists, this evidence-based lecture combines science with practical guidance to equip participants with the skills and confidence to manage instrument separation predictably with minimally invasive access approaches.
Learning Objectives:
- Discuss in-depth the microstructure of Nickel-Titanium (NiTi) alloys and how heat treatment enhances their flexibility and strength, reducing the risk of file fracture
- Gain expertise in advanced techniques and tools, including ultrasonics and retrieval kits, to access and remove separated files effectively using minimally invasive, tooth-preserving approaches.
- Develop strategies to minimize the risk of file breakage during root canal treatment, including proper instrument handling and the use of heat-treated NiTi files.
Walid Nehme, D.D.S., M.S., Ph.D.
Professor Walid Nehme, DDS, MSc, PhD Associate Professor, University of the Pacific, Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry Professor Walid Nehme is an Associate Professor at the University of the Pacific, Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry, former Head of the Endodontic Department at Saint Joseph University (Beirut), and Invited Professor at Mohamed Bin Rashid University (Dubai). He earned his DDS (1988), MSc in Endodontics (1994), and PhD (2023) from Saint Joseph University. With more than 30 years of clinical and academic experience, Professor Nehme specializes in undergraduate and postgraduate education, research supervision, and advanced training in endodontics. His scholarly work, published in leading peer-reviewed journals, spans root canal anatomy, NiTi file design, instrumentation, irrigation, obturation, and retreatment. Professor Nehme is an international member of the American Association of Endodontists (AAE), past President of the Lebanese Society of Endodontology (LSE), founder and past President of the Arab Endodontic Society (AES), and President-Elect of the Pan Asiatic Endodontic Confederation (APEC). A recognized innovator, he has designed NiTi endodontic files and motors, holding multiple patents and contributing to the development of novel endodontic devices through clinical trials. He actively conducts postgraduate courses and hands-on workshops across the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and Canada. Professor Nehme also maintains a faculty practice limited to endodontics at the University of the Pacific, reflecting his dedication to both patient care and advancing the specialty.
Disclosure(s): coltene: Honorarium (Ongoing), I have developed endodontic files for Micro mega /Coltene and get royalties (Ongoing), Ownership Interest (stocks, stock options, patent or other intellectual property or other ownership interest excluding diversified mutual funds) (Ongoing)