Shedding Light on Periodontal Pathogens

Course Description

1.5 Hours Course
AGD Subject Code: 135

Understanding and prioritizing the oral systemic connection is crucial and underscores the importance of proactively treating our patients in a manner that addresses both oral and systemic wellness. Join Beth and Kerry as they explore the multiple benefits of implementing diode lasers procedures into the dental practice’s non-surgical periodontal program and discover how the use of diode lasers in dentistry represent a significant advancement in technology.  Beth and Kerry will review and demonstrate how to use the laser for multiple functions including treatment of oral lesions, laser bacterial reduction and laser assisted periodontal therapy. This course will highlight how the laser can elevate the dental hygiene department and benefit patients in numerous ways.

Who Should Attend This Course:

Learn how a diode laser can elevate the dental hygiene department through incorporating surgical (provincial scope of practice specific)  and non-surgical periodontal therapy adjuncts. Additionally, learn the treatment of apthus ulcers and cold sores. Several procedures will be reviewed and demonstrated to highlight multiple benefits for your patients as well as the impressive ROI for the practice.  The Dentist will benefit by attending and understand a strong ROI.

Course Outcomes and Learning Objectives:

• Discover the evidence supporting diode lasers as an effective adjunct for non-surgical periodontal therapy.
• Discuss how clinical assessment clues can help identify patients who may benefit from laser therapy given their health history, risk factors, and bacterial profile.
• Explore the oral-systemic connection between pathogenic bacteria and the health of our clients and how we can target them with a minimally invasive approach.
• Gain insight and be able to identify specific bacteria and their contribution to dysbiosis and potential periodontal involvement or advancement.
• Understand the diode laser functions available for the dental hygiene department.

Beth Parkes (RDH)

Beth Parkes RDH, BSc is an engaging international speaker who has been a Registered Dental Hygienist for nearly 20 years. She has gained her clinical knowledge and skills through General and Independent Practice, Mobile Dental Hygiene, Orthodontics and Periodontics. Beyond her clinical experience, Beth is the Manager of Clinical Affairs for Curion, a writer, a board member for Dental Hygiene Quarterly, an rdhu speaker and a valued cast member of The RDH View. Her overarching goal is to cultivate future leaders within the Dental Hygiene Profession, equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in their careers while helping their patients obtain and maintain optimal oral health.

Kerry Lepicek (RDH)

Kerry Lepicek is an experienced dental hygienist with over 20 years of clinical practice. She works at Clinical Research Dental as a Clinical Specialist in Dental Hygiene and Education and part-time in a general practice. Kerry's expertise includes oral biofilm, halitosis, the oral-systemic connection, and the dental hygiene process of care. She is focused on educating patients and the dental profession on health and wellness. Kerry is involved in various dental organizations, including section editor for Women in Dentistry, on the Research Advisory Committee for the Ontario Dental Hygiene Association, and on the advisory board for AAOSH. She recently received the Distinguished Services Award from Ontario Dental Hygienists Association (ODHA) for outstanding contributions to the dental hygiene profession and the Association. Her practical advice will transform your practice and patients’ health.