2026 Speakers
SUCCESSFULL HAPPINESS IN RETIREMENT: IT'S NEVER TOO EARLY TO PLAN!
WILLIAM G DICKERSON, DDS, FAACD, LVIM, FIAPA, LVIF (FOUNDER AND CEO OF LVI GLOBAL & IAPA)
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Speaker Bio
Like so many dentists, Dr. Dickerson was busy creating a practice based on the skills and knowledge he obtained in dental school, however he was increasingly frustrated and disenchanted by the traditional approach to dental care. Developing a “Patient Centered Practice” gave him his passion driven purpose. Propelled by this new excitement for dentistry, Bill started sharing his passion with other dentists and quickly became recognized as a respected opinion leader and highly sought after speaker as well as one of the most influential people in dentistry. He was instrumental as a pioneer in the aesthetic revolution as well as igniting the professions interest in Physiological Based Dentistry. His focus for the past two decades has been to create a better future for the profession. Since 1994, Bill’s efforts have been channeled into creating the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies (LVI Global), providing an educational forum for advancing our profession, and developing many aesthetic and occlusal techniques that enhanced comprehensive restorative procedures. Over nine thousand dentists from all over the world have attended LVI and over 10,000 of their patients have been treated there, as well as the thousands of others who have enhanced their practices by attending lectures of Bill’s or reading his several books. From Aesthetic dentistry to scientifically based occlusal approaches, Bill has encouraged, assisted and propelled dentists from over 43 nations to grow and excel.
Lecture Synopsis
Are you thinking about retirement, what will you do, why are you retiring, when will you retire, where will you retire. These are just a few of the Ten Important steps to create a successful retirement that Dr. Dickerson will discuss during this lecture. Understand how you can successfully set yourself up for a happy retirement and future, and how to make it better than you ever imagined.
THE EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES OF THIS PRESENTATION ARE FOR THE PARTICIPANTS TO BE ABLE TO:
- Assess your financial situation before retiring.
- Assess if you are healthy which will determine where and why you are retiring
- Understand your mental health. (Are you ready?)
- Discuss retirement with your spouse.(Are they ready to retire as well)
- Implement a successful transition into retirement-slowly test the waters
- Discuss how you will create a new life(dentistry is not your identity)
- Implement avoiding degradation.(How to prevent stagnation and decline)
- Discuss the importance of where to retire(Your location is more important than you think)
- Understand the social aspect of retiring
- Implement how to maintain Health and Happiness during retirement
DENTISTRY IS A PERFORMANCE PROFESSION
MR. BRIAN BRADLEY
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Speaker Bio
Brian Bradley is an internationally recognized posture therapist, performance specialist, and educator who helps physicians, healthcare professionals, executives, and athletes move better, balance their bodies, live Pain Free, and perform at their highest level. For more than 35+ years, Brian has trained clinicians around the world to identify and correct the underlying postural imbalances that contribute to chronic pain, reduced performance, and unnecessary wear on the body. His practical, science-informed approach bridges biomechanics, movement, and longevity, empowering people to take ownership of their health before pain becomes the limiting factor. Brian is one of the founders of POSTURx, the next evolution and rebrand of The Egoscue Method, a globally recognized posture therapy system that has helped people overcome chronic pain and restore function for decades. Brian’s mission extends beyond helping people eliminate pain. He is passionate about helping the people who spend their lives caring for others remember to care for themselves. Whether he’s educating physicians, speaking to healthcare teams, or coaching high-performing professionals, his goal is to provide simple, actionable strategies that improve resilience, optimize performance, and extend healthspan. His philosophy is simple: When your posture improves, your body performs the way it was designed. When your body performs better, so does your life.
Lecture Synopsis
With chronic pain and repetitive injury becoming more common in the dentistry world, Brian Bradley will share how Postural Therapy tips will help attendees restore postural balance and proper function to show that when your posture improves, your body performs better, so does your life.
THE EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES OF THIS PRESENTATION ARE FOR THE PARTICIPANTS TO BE ABLE TO:
- Identify the true cause of chronic, repetitive injury from Dentistry... or rather the postural issues Dentistry creates.
- Recognize that Dentistry is NOT the actual cause of their chronic pain, but rather the misaligned body they bring to dentistry is the issue
- Demonstrate the unwinding process of their flexion/rotation "stuck" spine... through Postural Exercise
- Classify Dentistry as a Sport and that they have a need to train for it.
- Discuss why they need to ergonomically change their equipment to accommodate the posture-challenged customer coming in for treatment
- Evaluate themselves as part of the solution by letting customers know of this exercise alternative to make their experience better
WHAT I KNOW BEFORE I GO! KEY LESSONS LEARNED FROM A LONG TERM CAREER IN PHYSIOLOGIC DENTISTRY
ANNE-MAREE COLE, B.D.Sc.,MSc Med(Sleep Medicine) LVIM, FIAPA, MICCMO
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Speaker Bio
Dr. Anne-Maree Cole graduated from the University of Queensland, Australia with Honours in 1982. In 2014, she completed a Masters Degree in Sleep Medicine at the University of Sydney. She has always had a passion for learning but this was truly ignited when she first came to LVI in the year 2000. Since that time she has completed almost 40 separate programs at LVI including the full Core Curriculum, and has reviewed many of the programs multiple times for a total of 70 in all. She is a Master of the Institute, having received her LVIM in 2006 after submission of cases and examination. In 2007, she was awarded Alumni of the Year. She is an instructor at LVI and was appointed the Director of LVI Global Australia to teach the Core Curriculum within Australia. She has been awarded LVI’s Most Educated Instructor and the International Leadership Award. She is a Past President of the IAPA and has attained her Mastership from the International College of Cranio-Mandibular Orthopaedics (ICCMO). She travels from Australia to teach in the sleep and advanced TMD programs at LVI. Dr. Anne-Maree has a passion for physiology and its application in dentistry, particularly with regards to sleep and pain. Having completed her Masters Degree in Sleep Medicine, the importance of respecting the physiology was driven home. Our goal should not be to do quickest and easiest but to do our very best for the patients who entrust us with their care. The physiologic approach to dental sleep medicine embraces this. Dr. Anne-Maree Cole does not have relevant financial relationships with proprietary entities producing health care goods or services related to the content of LVI courses.
Lecture Synopsis
In this reflective and practical 1.5-hour lecture, Dr Anne-Maree Cole shares key lessons gathered from a career in dentistry, practice ownership, patient care, and clinical problem-solving. The session explores the often-overlapping worlds of sleep, pain, airway, TMD, and the patients who do not fit neatly into standard diagnostic boxes. Alongside clinical insights, Anne-Maree will discuss the realities of running a dental business, managing complexity, navigating professional challenges, and learning from the outliers who force us to think differently. This lecture is designed for dental colleagues who want an honest, experience-based conversation about what matters most in practice, what we wish we had known earlier, and how to keep evolving as clinicians and business owners.
THE EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES OF THIS PRESENTATION ARE FOR THE PARTICIPANTS TO BE ABLE TO:
- Identify key clinical links between sleep-disordered breathing, craniofacial pain, TMD, airway dysfunction, and complex dental presentations.
- Recognize clinical outliers and atypical patient patterns that may require broader diagnostic thinking, interdisciplinary referral, or modified treatment planning.
- Evaluate the practical business and communication challenges involved in managing complex patients within a dental practice setting.
- Apply reflective lessons from long-term clinical and practice ownership experience to improve patient care, professional resilience, and decision-making in daily practice.
KEY STEPS TO SECURE YOUR FINANCIAL FUTURE
DAVID KEATOR, MS, CES, CPFA
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Speaker Bio
David’s experience in tax-efficient investing, business succession and wealth transfer offers our clients an opportunity to help mitigate their tax liability and potentially increase their returns. Through his knowledge, especially with respect to retirement plans and his extensive experience in investment and estate planning strategies, David strives to give our clients proactive choices in managing their future. David’s investment focus is more blue chip equity oriented with an eye toward picking what he considers to be the dominant company in the sector. He holds his series 7, 63 and 65 securities registrations, and is licensed to sell insurance and variable annuities. He is a graduate of the institute of Business & Finance where he received his designation as a Certified Estate and Trust Specialist (CES). As a Certified Plan Fiduciary Advisor (CPFA) David is distinctly positioned to work with our retirement plan trustees to maximize plan compliance and efficiency. David is working on a number of practice and client initiatives throughout their clearing firm and is currently serving an appointed position to the Massachusetts Economic Assistance Coordinating Council. In addition to his duties with the Keator Group, David is a frequent guest of the lecture circuit, offering estate and investment planning seminars to various Fortune 100 companies. A graduate of Fordham University with a B.A. in Economics, David completed his M.A. from the State University of New York at Albany. After working in the tax planning field in New York City concentrating on high-net-worth individuals and closely held businesses, David moved to.
Lecture Synopsis
This session focuses on the key financial, business, and market considerations that shape successful retirement and business exit strategies. Participants will gain insight into the current economic and investment landscape, explore factors influencing market performance, and understand how proactive planning can help business owners maximize value, transition confidently into retirement, and achieve long-term financial goals. By connecting market trends with personal and business planning decisions, attendees will leave with a clearer framework for making informed choices about their future.
THE EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES OF THIS PRESENTATION ARE FOR THE PARTICIPANTS TO BE ABLE TO:
- Discuss the key components of a successful business exit strategy and the importance of planning in advance.
- Evaluate factors that influence business value and identify opportunities to enhance worth before transition
- Review current market conditions and economic trends that may impact business owners, investors, and retirees
- Discuss what works for you may not work for others. Large goals VS small goals. Longevity and long lasting changes not just a short term one and done.
- Explore retirement planning strategies designed to align personal financial goals with business transition objectives
- Recognize potential risks and opportunities in today's market environment and apply them to long-term financial decision making
- Gain exposure to a wholistic approach that integrates business succession, wealth, preservation and retirement readiness
PATIENT EDUCATION TO CERAMIC EXCELLENCE: DIGITAL SMILE DESIGN AND LAB COMMUNICATION FOR PREDICTABLE VENEER OUTCOMES
HAMADA MAKARITA, DDS, LVIM, MAGD
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Speaker Bio
Accredited Fellow of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry Master of the Academy of General Dentistry Master of the International Congress of Oral Implantology Dr. Makarita graduated from the Medical College of Virginia School of Dentistry in 1988, and maintains a private practice in Oakton, Virginia with an emphasis on aesthetic reconstructive and Physiologic Based dentistry. Dr. Makarita was awarded Mastership status in the Academy of General Dentistry. He is among an elite group of cosmetic dentists who have achieved Accredited Fellowship status by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (FAACD). In addition, he has achieved Mastership status with the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies (LVI), where he is a clinical instructor . His cosmetic and reconstructive dentistry has been featured twice on the cover of the Journal of Cosmetic Dentistry and he has authored clinical articles related to TMD, occlusion, intraoral photography and aesthetic dentistry.
Lecture Synopsis
Successful smile makeovers begin long before the porcelain veneers are fabricated. This lecture explores how dentists can use clear patient education, visual communication, and iPad-based digital smile-design tools to guide patients through aesthetic treatment decisions with confidence. Attendees will learn how to present key smile-design concepts—such as tooth shape, proportion, symmetry and overall smile character—in a practical “show-and-tell” format. The workflow will include AI smile generation on the iPad, enabling patients to visualize potential smile possibilities and become more engaged, motivated, and aligned with the proposed treatment vision. The presentation also demonstrates how digital records, smile simulations, design selections, photographs, and written laboratory instructions can be organized and communicated to the laboratory ceramist with the use of an app to support more predictable, patient-centered ceramic restorations.
THE EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES OF THIS PRESENTATION ARE FOR THE PARTICIPANTS TO BE ABLE TO:
- Explain fundamental smile-design concepts to patients in clear, visual, and non-technical language that supports informed aesthetic decisions.
- Use an iPad-based digital workflow to present smile options, document patient preferences, and increase patient understanding of proposed porcelain veneer treatment.
- Identify the essential clinical, photographic, and design information that should be communicated to the laboratory ceramist for predictable veneer fabrication.
- Develop a structured laboratory communication protocol that includes tooth shape, length, proportion, texture, translucency, shade, incisal effects, and patient- approved aesthetic goals.
- Improve collaboration among the dentist, patient, and ceramist by using digital smile -design records as a shared visual reference throughout the smile-makeover process.
- Incorporate AI-generated smile visualizations on an iPad to help motivate patients, clarify treatment possibilities, and facilitate meaningful discussion of aesthetic goals.
WINNING THE 2ND HALF-IT'S NOT TOO LATE TO CHANGE YOUR LIFE
KEVIN WINTERS, DDS, LVIM, FIAPA
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Speaker Bio
Dr. Kevin Winters attended Kansas State University where he played on the football team before going to dental school at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. After participating in a one year general practice residency at the University of Louisville, he started a family practice in Claremore, Oklahoma. After many years there, Dr. Winters opened a scratch practice in Tulsa in 2009 focusing on cosmetic and restorative dentistry. Dr. Winters is currently running his fourth practice, The Hills Dental Spa in Austin, Texas. Dr. Winters is one of the original clinical instructors at LVI having started 21 years ago. He has lectured internationally, published many articles, served as high school football coach and raised 2 incredible kids. Dr. Winters loves sports and traveling with his wonderful wife. He also remains very passionate about dentistry.
Lecture Synopsis
Sometimes life has taken a toll on us and it may seem impossible to climb out of the hole we are in with our health and fitness. You've spent all your time taking care of your business, your family, everyone but you. Now your weight is up. Your blood work is coming back with issues. You’re tired and lack energy. I am going to cover some simple changes you can make and how to make them that can literally transform your life. You don't have to grow old and just accept that's the way things are going to be. You have control of how you age. Have a plan.
THE EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES OF THIS PRESENTATION ARE FOR THE PARTICIPANTS TO BE ABLE TO:
- Discuss more about hormones and how they change as we age.
- Discover way to affect how you age and not leave it up to chance.
- Develop a plan going forward to make a difference in your health and fitness.
THE ART OF THE CONVERSATION:TURNING FINDINGS INTO UNDERSTANDING
SHANNON CARROLL, RDH
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Speaker Bio
Shannon Carroll, RDH received her hygiene degree in 2003 from Catawba Valley Community College in Hickory, NC. Her extensive training in occlusion, orofacial myology, dental sleep medicine, and allopathic medicine has proven very valuable in educating her patients towards a preventive approach to their health. She has had the privilege of working one on one with numerous dental practices across the United States and Canada to achieve their goals of providing exceptional care with an up to date, comprehensive and contemporary perspective. Helping practices embrace and implement digital scanning in their day to day workflow is one of her favorite things. She is passionate about orthodontics being paramount to comprehensive care, thus enjoying her role as a groundbreaking member of the Hygiene Faculty for Align Technology.
Lecture Synopsis
This lecture explores how digital scanning technology and modern digital workflows can transform patient communication, enhance the consultation experience, and improve treatment acceptance. Participants will learn how to use digital tools to clearly illustrate oral health conditions, making complex clinical findings easier for patients to understand. By presenting visual, personalized information, clinicians can foster trust, encourage patient engagement, and support informed decision-making. The session will also highlight strategies for integrating efficient digital workflows into the chairside experience, reducing consultation time while improving communication and collaboration. Attendees will gain practical techniques for presenting treatment recommendations in a way that builds patient confidence, addresses concerns, and increases the likelihood of treatment acceptance. By combining technology with effective communication, dental teams can create a more engaging patient experience that leads to better clinical outcomes and practice growth.
THE EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES OF THIS PRESENTATION ARE FOR THE PARTICIPANTS TO BE ABLE TO:
- Present oral health conditions more effectively using digital scanning technology.
- Leverage digital tools to educate patients and facilitate informed treatment decisions.
- Streamline chairside consultations through efficient digital workflows.
- Apply communication strategies that increase patient confidence and case acceptance.
BEYOND PRODUCTION: HOW TO BUILD A PRACTICE WORTH SELLING-NOT JUST WORKING
Mr. Nick Clausen
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Speaker Bio
Nick Clausen is a business strategist and dental practice consultant who specializes in helping owner-doctors transition from primary producer to Dental CEO. While widely known for his work in laser optimization, Nick’s core expertise lies in leadership development, profitability strategy, and enterprise design. For five years, Nick served as a business coach with Fortune Management, the nation’s largest dental consulting organization, advising teams and owner-doctors in Las Vegas on team accountability, systems, communication, and doctor leadership. He was promoted to a Fortune 50 (F50) coach, working directly with some of the highest-producing dentists in the country on advanced scaling strategies, organizational structure, and leadership. As founder of Dental Laser Coaching (DLC), which he has led for over 15 years, Nick has coached practices nationally on clinical and business optimization. His approach bridges clinical excellence with financial performance—helping practices turn production into enterprise value. Nick holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Iowa State University and an MBA from Creighton University. He has completed executive education through Georgia Tech and the Program on Negotiation at Harvard Law School. His work centers on one principle: great dentistry should produce great patient experience and enterprise value.
Lecture Synopsis
Many dentists create best-in-class clinical outcomes and patient experiences—yet the practice production does not always reflect that level of excellence. When production, collections, and EBITDA depend entirely on the systems and teams the owner builds, poor structure silently suppresses valuation and eliminates freedom. This presentation is specifically designed for the owner-doctor who wants to transition from primary producer to Dental CEO and ultimately build an enterprise that delivers maximum value and time freedom. This is not something that can be engineered one year before retirement; the foundation must be built early and intentionally. Attendees will understand how to shift from working in the practice to working on business by adopting a CEO mindset centered on communication, leadership, accountability, and scalable profitability. We will explore growth strategies that expand revenue without adding clinical days, including the four revenue streams of a successful dental enterprise. Participants will gain clarity around the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) that influence valuation, how to structure accountable leadership within the team, and the critical differences between being a boss and becoming an effective leader. Practical systems will be provided for conflict resolution, corrective communication, and internal leadership development. The goal is simple: build a practice that thrives without you at the center—so when you are ready to exit, your business commands premium value and creates long-term wealth.
THE EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES OF THIS PRESENTATION ARE FOR THE PARTICIPANTS TO BE ABLE TO:
- Demonstrate communication structures that prevent production leakage and operational drift.
- Practice CEO leadership and communication frameworks that build accountable, self-managing teams.
- Measure and track the critical KPIs that directly impact profitability, enterprise value, and exit readiness.
"THE TEAM MEMBERS' ROLE IN A PHYSIOLOGIC PRACTICE"
Mr. Joe Dewees,CDA, LVI DIRECTOR OF CLINICAL AFFAIRS & COURSE CURRICULUM
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Speaker Bio
Joseph Dewees was born and raised in Las Vegas, Nevada. He started working in dental offices 20 years ago at the age of 17 as a sterilization technician, while also furthering his education at the College of Southern Nevada. Since then he has worn many different hats in dental offices, from Clinical Dental Assistant, Front Office, Office Manager, and Treatment Coordinator. It was 15 years ago he was first introduced to The Las Vegas Institute, which started his passion for Physiologic Dentistry and enjoys helping patients achieve optimal dental and whole body health. He is now the Director of Team Programs here at the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies. He believes a well trained, empowered team is the key to a successful dental practice, and hopes to help team members unlock their full potential and help them find their passion for dentistry. In addition he has a second passion for fitness and is a Group Fitness Instructor and enjoys pushing people to reach and exceed their fitness and weight loss goals.
Lecture Synopsis
This session focuses on the critical role dental teams play in patient interaction and education. Participants will learn to recognize physiologic disharmony, identify signs and symptoms of TMD and OSA, and explain the underlying causes to patients. By understanding the "why" behind these conditions, the team can effectively communicate the risks of inaction and the benefits of available treatment options to improve patient health and quality of life.
THE EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES OF THIS PRESENTATION ARE FOR THE PARTICIPANTS TO BE ABLE TO:
- Empower team members to serve as lead patient educators.
- Review clinical signs and symptoms of TMD and OSA .
- Utilize effective analogies to improve patient comprehension of physiological conditions .
- Set clear treatment expectations to enhance long-term success.
- Build patient confidence in the clinical team to increase treatment acceptance.
THE OZONE LAYER SHOULD BE IN YOUR OFFICE
Dr. John Highsmith
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Speaker Bio
Dr. John Highsmith is a graduate of Davidson College. He earned his dental degree from the University of North Carolina (go Heels!). Following a residency at the VA Medical Center in Baltimore, he pursued additional training in dental implants and cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Highsmith is one of only six accredited members of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry in North Carolina, a Diplomate of The International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI), and a fellow in the Misch Implant Institute. He is a member of the American Dental Association, the Western NC Dental Society, and the NC Dental Society. He has been using ozone in his office since 2007 and is a founding member of the International Association of Ozone in Healthcare and Dentistry. Dr. Highsmith has taken many continuing education courses at LVI, the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Education, starting in 1999. Dr. Highsmith has served as a clinical instructor at LVI, helping other dentists in the cutting edge techniques for cosmetic and functional dentistry. His non dental passions include photography (above and under the water), scuba diving, astrophotography, theater, art and fitness.
Lecture Synopsis
Ozone gas is one of the most potent antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal agents known. There are many useful applications of ozone in dentistry. This presentation will be an overview of the safe and effective use of ozone gas, ozonated oils, and ozonated water in a dental practice. Enhance your restorative, periodontal, and endodontic treatment. There will also be some discussion of uses of ozone in medical practice as well.
THE EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES OF THIS PRESENTATION ARE FOR THE PARTICIPANTS TO BE ABLE TO:
- Discuss basic biochemistry of ozone and it's effect on biologic systems.
- Explore safe use and handling of ozone.
- Assess basic application of ozone in caries management, periodontal treatment, and endodontic treatment.
- Discuss use of ozone gas, ozonated oils ozonated water, and ozonated glycerin.
DEEP SLEEP IS THE FOUNDATION FOR BIOHACKING HEALTH
John Pawlowicz, DMD, LVIM, FIAPA
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Speaker Bio
Dr. John Pawlowicz is a 1993 graduate of the University of Pittsburgh, School of Dental Medicine and completed a General Practice Fellowship at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center – Montefiore Hospital. He has achieved Mastership and Fellowship status with ICCMO (International College of Craniomandibular Orthopedics), Fellowship status with LVI (Las Vegas Institute), and is on the Mastership track with the AGD. He has been chosen as a top Dentist in Western Pennsylvania as voted by his peers, and recognized by the IACA for his excellence in smile design. Dr. Pawlowicz is a member of the American Dental Association (ADA) where he served as a member of the New Dentist committee, the Pennsylvania Dental Association as a delegate, and alternate delegate. On the Board of Directors of the Western Pennsylvania Dental Society he was Vice President, as well as the past President of the Butler County Dental Society. He is a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD), American Academy of Craniofacial Pain (AACP), American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM), IACA (The International Association of Comprehensive Aesthetics), Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), and the International College of Craniomandibular Orthopedics (ICCMO). Dr. Pawlowicz is a Featured Speaker and Clinical Instructor at the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies. Additionally he speaks nationally for LVI on the topics of OSA, snoring and TMD. He served as a consultant in the area of clinical materials testing for DENTSPLY of America, and lectured on behalf of Kerr Dental Products. Dr. Pawlowicz has also been a guest lecturer for the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine regional speaker’s series. He currently holds a United States patent for a new design in TENS devices and the application of the device with regard to the placement in the Posterior Cervical/Sub-Occipital regions of the head and neck. Dr. Pawlowicz maintains a full-time private practice in Lyndora, Pennsylvania emphasizing aesthetic restorative dentistry, occlusion, Obstructive Sleep Apnea and snoring, non-surgical treatment of TM joint dysfunction and myofacial pain. He spends his leisure time golfing and as a volunteer coach for his son’s basketball and baseball teams. He and his family regularly volunteer on behalf of Catholic Charities and their home Parish. He lives just north of Pittsburgh with his wife and two children. Dr. John Pawlowicz does not have relevant financial relationships with proprietary entities producing health care goods or services related to the content of LVI courses.
Lecture Synopsis
Deep sleep is one of the most powerful yet overlooked tools for optimizing health, performance, longevity, and disease prevention. This short course explores the science of sleep and its critical role in physical recovery, cognitive function, metabolic health, hormone regulation, immune resilience, and overall well-being. Participants will examine how modern lifestyle factors including- daily stress, nutrition, technology use, environmental exposures, and circadian disruption-can impair sleep quality and contribute to chronic health conditions. Through an evidence-based biohacking framework, attendees will learn practical strategies to improve sleep architecture, enhance deep Delta Wave and REM sleep, and leverage wearable technology and sleep-related tools to measure outcomes. This short course will review both behavioral and environmental interventions that support restorative sleep. We will discuss how optimizing nutrition, exercise, and stress management, can amplify the effectiveness of other health interventions to improve the quality and quantity of deep sleep. By understanding and improving sleep quality, healthcare professionals can help patients build a stronger foundation for long-term health and performance.
THE EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES OF THIS PRESENTATION ARE FOR THE PARTICIPANTS TO BE ABLE TO:
- Discuss the physiological functions of deep sleep and explain its impact on metabolic health, cognitive performance, immune function, hormone regulation, and healthy aging
- Identify common lifestyle, environmental and medical factors that disrupt sleep quality and evaluate their effects on overall health and disease risk
- Develop sleep optimization strategies, including behavioral, environmental, and technology-assisted interventions, to improve sleep quality and support patient health outcomes
WORKING SMARTER NOT HARDER. HOW THE IMPOSSIBLE BECOMES DAILY ROUTINE WITH THE POWER OF DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY IN A GENERAL AND PHYSIOLOGIC PRACTICE.
Daron Clark, DMD, LVIF
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Speaker Bio
Dr. Clark received his DMD from the University of Mississippi in 2007, and has a General Dentistry practice in downtown Nashville with a special focus on TMD and Oro-Facial Pain, Dental Sleep Medicine, and Facial Aesthetics. In addition to his private practice, Dr. Clark serves as a Member of the Board of Education and Key Opinion Leader for Planmeca, USA, a dental technology company and industry leader in CBCT Imaging and CAD/CAM Restorative Dentistry. Dr. Clark also serves as a Key Opinion Leader for Desktop Health, a leader in 3D Printing specifically focused on healthcare products in the fields of dentistry, orthodontics, dermatology, orthopedics, cardiology, plastic surgery, and printed regenerative materials. A voracious learner, through his Fellowship with the Las Vegas Institute of Advanced Dental Studies and his subsequent coursework with other advanced institutes Dr. Clark has completed over 2500 hours of post-doctoral education in Conservative Adhesive Restorative Dentistry, advanced TMD and Cranio-Facial Pain therapy, Cranio-Mandibular Orthopedics, and Dental Sleep Medicine. His education has allowed him provide his patients with conservative therapies to reduce pain and disease and improve overall health and wellbeing. Although many dental providers are capable of treating the teeth, Dr. Clark’s unique background and education allows him to more effectively diagnose, treat, and manage the entire head and neck system. Additionally, his passion for conservative dentistry has lead him to advanced education courses in conservative tooth preparation and bonding protocols which allow him to treat tooth decay less invasively, saving tooth structure and increasing the lifespan of his patient’s natural dentition. In addition to treating acute problems, his philosophy of care includes working with patients and other providers to discover the underlying conditions that are contributing to frequent or long-standing health conditions.
Lecture Synopsis
A full suite of digital technology and comprehensive understanding of how to use it profoundly improves the scope of capabilities, quality of care, financial health, and culture of a dental practice. The myth of a center in the Quality : Fast : Affordable Venn diagram becomes everyday reality when technology is embraced and the entire team is trained to use it. In this presentation, we will show digital efficiencies, workflows, and procedures we do every day and discuss the high quality of care and significant financial advantages for the business. Additionally we will discuss how acquiring and implementing digital technology pieces provides a strategic advantage for private practices and is essential for remaining relevant and preserving practice value in transitions.
THE EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES OF THIS PRESENTATION ARE FOR THE PARTICIPANTS TO BE ABLE TO:
- Discuss the constellation of digital dental technology available.
- Identify how digital tools expand the scope of procedures you can confidentially perform in your office day to day.
- Discuss the improved quality and efficiency of digitally executed workflows.
- Describe how digital implementation positions the dentist, the team and practice for financial success in the future.
CLEAR ALIGNERS: YOU DON'T ALWAYS GET WHAT YOU WANT..HOW TO GET WHAT YOU NEED
Tim Gross, DMD, LVIF, FIAPA
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Speaker Bio
Dr. Timothy Gross graduated from the University of Pittsburgh in 1992 and completed a general practice residency in dentistry at Allegheny General Hospital in 1993. He practiced in Pittsburgh for 17 years before relocating to Hilton Head Island, South Carolina in 2009. While in Pittsburgh, Dr. Gross was president of the Pittsburgh Academy of Dentistry and on the Peer Review and Patient Relations Committee of Western Pennsylvania. He also was a senior staff member at Allegheny General Hospital, a level one trauma hospital, where he remains on staff lecturing to hospital residents. Dr. Gross is a Fellow and Clinical Instructor of Physiologic Orthodontics at the Las Vegas Institute and Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine, Drexel University College of Medicine. He is on the Board of the International Association of Comprehensive Aesthetics. Dr. Gross’ practices on Hilton Head Island focuses on orthodontics, Physiologic Based Dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, sleep apnea, and mercury- free dentistry. Dr. Timothy Gross does not have relevant financial relationships with proprietary entities producing health care goods or services related to the content of LVI courses.
Lecture Synopsis
In this lecture Dr. Gross will review Invisalign and clear aligner treatment plans and compare with post treatment results. Those outcomes will be analyzed to determine which movements were accurately predicted and which movements did not meet expectations.
THE EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES OF THIS PRESENTATION ARE FOR THE PARTICIPANTS TO BE ABLE TO:
- Identify the common causes of Invisalign treatment deviations, including poor aligner fit, inadequate tracking, patient compliance issues and biologic limitations.
- Evaluate and implement evidence-based troubleshooting strategies to regain treatment progress, including the appropriate use of auxiliaries, refinements, mid-course corrections, additional aligners, and treatment plan modifications.
- Construct diagnostic decision-making skills to anticipate which movements may not be predictable so that the treatment plan can be optimized before initiating treatment so that treatment time is reduced.
- Construct clinical decision-making skills to determine when to continue with aligner therapy, revise the treatment plan, or transition to alternative orthodontic mechanics while effectively communicating expectations and options to patients.
LECTURE TITLE COMING SOON
Sponsored by Williams Dental LabBOB CLARK, CDT,LVIM, FIAPA
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Speaker Bio
Growing up in Williams Dental Laboratory, by his father’s (Jake Williams) side, Bob Clark was destined to become a lab technician. By age 17, Bob was working for a local dentist as a registered dental assistant by day, and by night, he was fabricating lab work as a certified lab technician. As Bob Clark’s career began to take off, so too did his educational adventure. He was soaking up every type of dental and lab training available. He learned from Dawson Center, Pankey Institute, Spears Education, and, finally, the Las Vegas Institute. Bob has discovered that a comprehensive understanding of all occlusal philosophies would only allow him a more in-depth relationship with his clients. He would be able to relate; communicate, and deliver the results that they were seeking from Williams Dental Laboratory. Over the next decade, Bob had completed every clinical and laboratory course offered at Las Vegas Institute for Dental Aesthetics, and he became the first laboratory technician in the world to earn the distinguished LVI Mastership. Word quickly spread that Bob’s work was second to none, and he soon became the favorite ceramist of LVI’s most prestigious dentists from around the world. Bob Clark has since been creating groundbreaking techniques in lab aesthetic dentures, dental ceramics, and digital dentistry. Bob leads an elite team of exceptional LVI trained technicians that deliver results in all areas of cosmetic and functional dentistry. It speaks volumes that Bob has been asked to complete smile makeovers and full mouth reconstructions with over 150 influential dentists and dental team members. He has created the Williams Dental Lab business model that is based on building lasting relationship with clients; caring, and giving accurate communication. Also, fundamental to the business model is documentation between the clinician and the technician. Finally, Williams Dental Lab wants to exceed the expectations of the patients via efficient management systems within the laboratory. Bob Clark is a published author, an international lecturer, KOL and consults for manufacturers around the globe that are on the forefront of CAD/CAM dentistry. Bob’s professional memberships and fellowships include American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, Academy of General Dentistry, the International Association of Physiologic Aesthetics, and the Dental Laboratory Association of California.
STACKING THE ODDS: PRF JOINT INJECTIONS FOR TMD
AMY CRARY,DMD,LVIF,FIAPA
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Speaker Bio
Dr. Amy Crary is the owner of Aesthetic Dentistry of Stuart, located in her hometown of Stuart, Florida. She earned both her undergraduate and dental degrees from the University of Florida, graduating with High Honors in 2002. After working as an associate dentist for two years, she fulfilled her dream of opening her own practice, Aesthetic Dentistry of Stuart. That same year, encouraged by a colleague, Dr. Crary attended her first course at the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies (LVI Global). She quickly developed a passion for helping patients with TMJ disorders (TMD) and complex restorative needs. Dr. Crary went on to complete the full LVI Core Curriculum along with numerous adjunctive courses, and she continues to pursue advanced education there regularly. Dr. Crary earned Fellowship status from both the American Academy of Craniofacial Pain (2014) and LVI Global, and has recently joined LVI as a Clinical Instructor. Over the years, she has grown her small solo practice into a thriving, fee-for-service, all-female group practice, now including an associate dentist and an orthodontist. Together, they provide comprehensive and compassionate care with a focus on whole-body health and well-being. Beyond the practice, Dr. Crary is active in her community, serving on the Board of Directors for the local YMCA. Outside of dentistry, she enjoys staying active through various types of exercise, cooking, and traveling the world with her husband and three children.
Lecture Synopsis
This lecture introduces clinicians to the use of Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) as an injectable biologic therapy for temporomandibular joint disorders. Beginning with the underlying biology, attendees will gain a clear understanding of what PRF is, how it differs from Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP), and why its unique fibrin scaffold and sustained growth factor release make it particularly well-suited for joint applications. The lecture then addresses centrifugation science before walking through the complete clinical procedure from venipuncture to post-injection care. Patient case examples illustrate real-world outcomes including pain reduction and improved range of motion. Attendees will leave with the foundational knowledge needed to evaluate PRF therapy as an evidence-based addition to their TMD treatment armamentarium.
THE EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES OF THIS PRESENTATION ARE FOR THE PARTICIPANTS TO BE ABLE TO:
- Describe the biological composition and mechanism of action of Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF), and distinguish it from Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) with respect to preparation, growth factor release kinetics, and regenerative potential in joint tissue.
- Explain the principles of centrifugation as they apply to PRF preparation, including the role of relative centrifugal force (RCF) rotor geometry, and spin time in determining PRF quality and clinical efficacy.
- Identify appropriate patient candidates for PRF TMJ injection therapy and describe the step-by-step clinical procedure, from blood draw and centrifugation through intra-articular injection technique and post-injection management.
LATE BLOOMER, STRONG FINISHER: BUILDING STRENGTH, HEALTH AND CONFIDENCE FOR LIFE
RAUL GARCIA, DMD, LVIF, FIAPA
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Speaker Bio
Dr. Raul Garcia is a Miami native with a lifelong passion for health, wellness, and exceptional dental care. He earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine from the University of Florida in 1995 and has been serving the Miami, Florida community in private practice ever since. Dr. Garcia practices alongside his wife — also a dentist. He and Conchi have been married and partners for over 30 years— at Miami Designer Smiles, where together they have built a practice rooted in a simple, but powerful philosophy: that a beautiful smile and total body health go hand in hand. Their practice specializes in creating healthy smiles while also addressing the often-overlooked connection between oral health and overall well-being. Areas of focus include the diagnosis and treatment of TMJ/TMD disorders and sleep apnea, as well as the restoration of missing teeth through dental implants. He and Dr. Conchi have found ways to help patients restoratively or orthodontically or a combination to achieve the best results. Dr. Garcia takes pride in developing personalized, dynamic treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique dental and health needs and circumstances. Educating patients is his top priority and hopes his passion gets patients excited to be the best version of themselves. His commitment to excellence extends well beyond the operatory. Dr. Garcia is a Fellow and Instructor at the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies (LVI Global), a Fellow of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, and has achieved his Mastership in the Academy of General Dentistry — distinctions that reflect both his expertise and his dedication to lifelong learning. Dr. Garcia is very proud of the dental legacy he is a part of since his wife is a third generation dentist and his 2 daughters are currently in dental school. The passion is flowing through the Garcia family and it is a testament to almost 100 years serving their communities. Outside the office, Dr. Garcia channels that same drive and discipline into endurance sports. He is an avid runner and triathlete, having completed numerous half marathons and marathons — and most recently, a Half Ironman, his latest milestone in a life lived with purpose and determination. HIs goal is to continue to pursue his fitness for many years to come and uses his own fitness to hopefully inspire those that he meets and through social media those that follow his journey @dr_raul_garcia.
Lecture Synopsis
In this lecture we will discuss how anyone can decide to change their life and make a decision to start doing activities that will improve their level of activity and ultimately improve their health and longevity. How a change in our behavior in one aspect of our life can have ripple effects on other aspects of our life. Athletic accomplishments can crossover to become professional and visa versa. Our brain can get rewired to view ourselves in a different perspectives. .
THE EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES OF THIS PRESENTATION ARE FOR THE PARTICIPANTS TO BE ABLE TO:
- Explain how to Paradigm shift our self perception and limits.
- Employ steps to take and make small but meaningful changes that over time help us improve.
- Arrange goal setting in small incremental steps.
- Discuss what works for you may not work for others. Large goals VS small goals. Longevity and long lasting changes not just a short term one and done.
- Summarize the Evolution of our goals and desires. Personally and Professionally.
- Apply listening to our inner voices.
- Define your Dare to Dream!
THE DIGITAL OPG: REPRODUCIBLE HEAD-POSITION MOUNTING IN EXOCAD
MR. JOSHUA JAKSON,FOUNDER AND CEO EVOLUTION DENTISTRY
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Speaker Bio
Joshua Jakson is the Founder and President of Evolve Dentistry in Buffalo New York. He is widely regarded as an implementer in the dental CAD/CAM industry, having educated teams and installed systems in more than 2500 CAD/CAM facilities worldwide. He is known for developing innovative CAD workflows using exocad, with approaches that have influenced features and methodologies found in the software today. Joshua’s background includes hands-on experience as a dental laboratory technician with AvaDent during the invention and early development of digital dentures, as well as 16 years working within his family’s laboratory, Evolution Dental Science. He educates alongside organizations include AACD, AAID, and KIOS focusing on advanced exocad design workflows and their clinical application.
Lecture Synopsis
Throughout this lecture Joshua will discuss why digitizing your mount in the published physiologic based dentistry method you trust is valid. Demonstrate the problems with mounting today, showcase the workflow from start to finish, demonstrate proof of digital vs analog mounting and discuss how to get the product needed to do all these things.
THE EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES OF THIS PRESENTATION ARE FOR THE PARTICIPANTS TO BE ABLE TO:
- Discuss why the Physiologic Based mount is valid.
- Demonstrate the problem with mounting today.
- Illustrate the workflow from start to finish
- Analyze the proof of digital vs. analog.
- Discuss how you get the product.
MAKING MYO WORK FOR YOU: KEEP IT SIMPLE & SUSTAINABLE (K.I.S.S.)
MS. ASHLEY HORN, RDH
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Speaker Bio
Ashley Horn, RDH, is a native South Floridian and certified registered dental hygienist with 20 years of experience in the dental field. Alongside her work in private practice, Ashley has turned her passion for education into inspiring the next generation of dental professionals as an adjunct faculty professor in the Palm Beach State College Dental Hygiene Program, where she has taught for the past five years. With a specialty in orofacial myofunctional therapy, Ashley is dedicated to helping dental professionals confidently and successfully integrate myofunctional therapy into their practices. Through relatable experiences, practical strategies, and real-world application, she show clinicians how easy it can be to implement myofunctional therapy to elevate patient care, expand services, and create meaningful practice growth.
Lecture Synopsis
This lecture is designed to help dental hygienists confidently incorporate myofunctional therapy into everyday practice without making treatment feel overwhelming. Using the K.I.S.S. method, participants will learn how to simplify patient evaluations, create practical one-stop exercise programs, and use structured protocols for TMD, frenectomy care, sleep apnea, and orthodontic treatment. The lecture will also focus on setting realistic expectations, improving patient compliance, and limiting active therapy to a manageable six-to-eight-week timeframe whenever appropriate. Attendees will leave with practical strategies they can begin using immediately to make myofunctional therapy more efficient, consistent, and sustainable for both the clinician and the patient.
THE EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES OF THIS PRESENTATION ARE FOR THE PARTICIPANTS TO BE ABLE TO:
- Implement a simplified approach to integrating myofunctional therapy into daily dental hygiene practice.
- Perform a structured orofacial myofunctional evaluation using a standardized assessment protocol.
- Apply streamlined treatment protocols for TMD, frenectomy care, sleep-disordered breathing and orthodontic patients.
- Develop practical exercise programs that improve patient compliance and clinical efficiency.
- Set realistic treatment goals and timelines using the K.I.S.S. (Keep it Simple & Sustainable) method to achieve predictable outcomes.
"FROM RISK TO REMINERALIZATION:RETHINKING CARIES MANAGEMENT THROUGH PREVENTION AND MINIMALLY INVASIVE DENTISTRY"
MS. AMBER ALLEN,RDH
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Speaker Bio
Amber Allen, RDH, has 12 years of experience in the dental field, first as a Registered Dental Assistant before becoming a Registered Dental Hygienist. A dedicated advocate for the dental hygiene profession, she is an active member of the California Dental Hygienists' Association (CDHA), a former member of the CDHA Student Relations Council, and current member of the Advisory Board for the Taft College Dental Hygiene Program. Amber served as both Class President and Treasurer while attending Taft College, where she graduated with Highest Honors and received the Hu-Friedy Golden Scaler Award, Highest GPA Award, Leadership Award, and Character Award. She is passionate about education, leadership, and advancing excellence in patient care.
Lecture Synopsis
The management of dental caries has evolved far beyond simply restoring cavitated lesions. Today's evidence supports a comprehensive, risk-based approach that emphasizes prevention, early intervention, and preservation of natural tooth structure. This course explores a broader shift in philosophy of caries management by integrating caries risk assessment, salivary diagnostics, biofilm management, remineralization strategies, and minimally invasive dentistry into everyday clinical practice. This fast-paced, evidence-based presentation will provide practical strategies that can be implemented to improve patient outcomes and elevate the standard of preventive care..
THE EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES OF THIS PRESENTATION ARE FOR THE PARTICIPANTS TO BE ABLE TO:
- Asses the role of caries risk assessment, salivary diagnostics, and biofilm management in individualized treatment planning.
- Evaluate current evidence supporting remineralization techniques.
- Incorporate practical, evidence-based preventive strategies into daily clinical practice to improve patient outcomes and preserve tooth structure.

