Holistic Dental Association

02/17/2026

Register TODAY for the 2026 HDA National Symposium!

You'll learn from industry leaders--such as Dr. Mary Ellen Chalmers, DMD

Dr. Chalmers will be sharing her knowledge with (2) topics on Saturday, April 11th.

Her late afternoon topic:

Functional Dentistry: Enhancing Treatment Outcomes Utilizing Targeted Genomics and Functional Medicine

Advances in genomic science are reshaping how we understand oral disease susceptibility and treatment response. Functional Dentistry integrates targeted genetic testing with functional medicine principles to move beyond a one-size-fits-all approach, enabling clinicians to identify patients at elevated biological risk and tailor interventions accordingly. By examining single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) across key pathways — including vitamin D receptor function, absorption and transport, methylation capacity, oxidative stress and detoxification efficiency, and inflammatory cytokine regulation — we can build individualized risk profiles that inform more precise clinical decision-making.
Objectives of the presentation:

1. Describe how the integration of targeted genomics and functional medicine can enhance clinical treatment outcomes.
2. Identify clinically significant SNP variants (odds ratio ≥ 1.2) within the VDR, methylation, oxidative stress/detoxification, and inflammatory cytokine pathways and explain their relevance to oral disease susceptibility.
3. Interpret how genetic variations in inflammatory cytokine and VDR pathways contribute to individual risk profiles for periodontal disease progression and treatment response.
4. Evaluate the role of methylation and detoxification pathway polymorphisms in modulating systemic factors that influence periodontal health and healing capacity.
5. Apply a genomic-informed framework to develop individualized risk assessments and targeted intervention strategies for patients with periodontal disease.
6. Discuss the emerging evidence linking genetic SNP variants to persistent dental caries and identify opportunities for incorporating genomic data into caries risk assessment and management.

Register athttps://holisticdental.org/2026-meeting
OR
Give us a call to register at 866-379-2660!

02/16/2026

Featuring another speaker highlight you won't want to miss at our 2026 HDA National Symposium in April!

Mary Ellen Chalmers, DMD, BCNP, MS, IFMCP practices Functional Medicine based Dentistry, Orofacial Pain and Oral Medicine in Santa Rosa, California. She holds degrees from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine and the University of Southern California Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry. She is an IFM Certified Practitioner and Diplomate of the American Board of Orofacial Pain. Dr. Chalmers has lectured internationally on oral-systemic health and serves as faculty with the Institute for Functional Medicine and the American College of Integrative Medicine and Dentistry. In September 2024, Dr. Chalmers co-founded the Institute for Functional Dentistry.

In addition to her clinical practice, Dr. Chalmers work focuses on integrating functional medicine principles into dental education to equip clinicians to recognize early systemic signals, address root causes of disease, and practice dentistry as a true form of preventative medicine.

SATURDAY, APRIL 11th from 1:30pm - 3:00pm

Functional Dentistry: A Template for Integrating the Oral-Systemic Connection

With the overwhelming evidence of an Oral Systemic Connection present in the scientific literature, translating these findings to clinical practice can be challenging. Introducing Functional Medicine principles and practices for the treatment of chronic disease into Oral Health care provides a new perspective for the diagnosis and treatment of dental patients. Viewing our patients thru the Functional Medicine lens, allows us to view oral disease from a root cause perspective and provide individualized, personalized care. In a 2019 ADA Editorial, Dr. Michael Glick discussed the relevance of Oral Health and the need to advocate for our standing in the emerging care model of Personalized Medicine. He suggested that our profession may lose our autonomy unless we find our voice within this conversation. While Functional Medicine makes the Oral Systemic Connection, Functional Dentistry gives the dental profession a template to provide care in the world of Personalized Medicine.

Objectives of the presentation:
Why Functional Dentistry – Defining the need
Functional Medicine – The Basics
• Chronic Disease Epidemic and Dentistry’s Role
• Introduce the concepts of Systems Biology
• Introduce The Institute for Functional Medicine Diagnostic and Treatment Paradigm
• Define Antecedents, Triggers and Mediators
Introduce Functional Dentistry and the Functional Dental Matrix
• Review the Dental Literature from a Functional Medicine Lens
• Introduce the Functional Dentistry Matrix
• Discuss Antecedents, Triggers and Mediators as they relate to Dentistry
• Applying Functional Dentistry to the Oral-Systemic Connection

02/03/2026

✨ Make plans to attend the 49th Annual Holistic Dental Association Symposium! ✨

📍 Las Vegas, Nevada
🗓 April 9–11, 2026
📌 Tuscany Suites | 8AM–5PM

Join dentists and dental teams from around the country for three days of cutting-edge education in holistic dentistry, including hands-on workshops and expert-led presentations on:

🦷 Neural Therapy & Neurofocal Dentistry
🌿 Comprehensive Holistic Periodontal Treatment
💪 Applied Kinesiology for Dentists
🥗 Clinical Nutrition in Practice
🦴 Bone Grafting Protocols & Implant Success
⚡ Bio-oxidative Therapy Advances
📈 Practice Transitions & Growth

Plus: Exhibitor Evening with Refreshments 🍷 (Friday 5–7PM)

Bring your staff and take advantage of all-day and half-day workshop options!

👉 Registration & details: https://holisticdental.org/2026-meeting

The 49th Annual Symposium Holistic Dental Association April 9-11, 2026 LAS VEGAS, NEVADA Thursday-Saturday Meeting Hours: from 8AM to 5PM Tuscany Suites 255 E Flamingo Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89169 (702) 893-8933

02/02/2026

Check out this addition to our 2026 National Symposium Meeting Schedule!

You don't want to miss this meeting!

SATURDAY, APRIL 11, 2026:

**Bio-oxidative Therapy: Advances and Standard of Care**

Philip Mollica MS, DMD, IBMD, MIAOMT

This presentation will review the current scientific concepts for bio-oxidative therapy. In addition, based upon current science a standard of care will be presented to better understand the integration of oxygen/ozone for patient care and improved outcomes.

Objectives of the presentation:

Review of Bio-oxidative Therapies, current science.
Physiologic response to oxygen/ozone.
Advanced techniques for application of oxygen/ozone
Integration of prolozone, neurozone for better outcomes.
Supportive therapeutics, lymphatic drainage, anti-inflammatories, enhanced tissue healing.

Register TODAY:

  The 49th Annual Symposium Holistic Dental Association April 9-11, 2026 LAS VEGAS, NEVADA Thursday-Saturday Meeting Hours: from 8AM to 5PM Tuscany Suites 255 E Flamingo Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89169 (702) 893-8933

01/21/2026

🦷 Register Now: 2026 HDA Symposium 🦷
📅 April 9–11, 2026
📍The Tuscany in Las Vegas, NV

Join colleagues from across the country for three days of cutting-edge education, collaboration, and inspiration at the Holistic Dental Association Symposium!

✨ What to Expect:
• Expert-led workshops & lectures
• Topics including holistic dentistry, periodontal health, nutrition, neural therapy, kinesiology & more
• CE opportunities for dentists, RDHs, and office team members
• Networking with like-minded professionals

💡 Flexible registration options:
✔ Thursday workshops only
✔ Friday–Saturday sessions
✔ Full 3-Day Symposium
✔ Special rates for RDHs & office staff
✔ Discounts for multiple team members

💰 Not an HDA member?
New Member Special: $195 with meeting registration (regular $295!)

⏳Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your practice and expand your knowledge.

👉 Register today:
https://holisticdental.org/2026-meeting/

📧 Questions? Email director@holisticdental.org or call 305-904-4346

01/07/2026

Interested in expanding your knowledge?

We're happy to share this upcoming CE opportunity taking place March 6-7, 2026 in Herndon, VA (right next to Dulles International Airport!)

Contact information for registration can be found at the bottom of the attached brochure!

01/06/2026

Another FULL-DAY Workshop Announcement for our 49th Annual Symposium! You don’t want to miss this opportunity!

Join us for Dr. Philip Mollica MS, DMD, IBMD, MIAOMT, and his presentation of:
Foundation, Integration, and Applications of Neural Therapy

The presentation will be a combination of lecture, demonstration, and hands-on integration of Neural Therapy for the whole body.

Objectives of the presentation:
• Describe Neural Therapy in a historical context.
• Present the foundational theory behind neural therapy—with an emphasis on the autonomic nervous system.
• The mechanism of Action in Neural Therapy
• Understand the concept of interference fields.
• How to recognize interference fields and reintegrate them back into the body’s energy field.
• Neurofocal Dentistry: principles and diagnosis in the oral-facial region.
• Pharmacodynamic and Systemic Effects of Procaine
• Segmental Therapy: Quaddles, Tonsils. Autonomics, Scars
• Hands-on injection techniques: procaine, homeopathics,
• Noninvasive techniques for re-regulation of head and neck.

Stay tuned for our announcement coming later this week of additional opportunities to hear Dr. Mollica at our 2026 Meeting in Las Vegas, NV!

Register now at www.holisticdental.org/2026-meeting/

01/05/2026

We are excited to announce the addition of Dr. Gregory G. Steiner, DDS, MS to our Thursday Workshop schedule!

Attend the half-day workshop "Using the SteinerBio Protocals for Bone Grafting” at our 2026 HDA National Symposium on Thursday, April 9th.

In this Workshop, Dr. Steiner will present cases using the technology and protocols that are only available to SteinerBio bone grafts. This presentation will be tailored to educate clinicians on how to increase their surgical skills by utilizing Dr. Steiner’s innovative and proven surgical techniques. Attendees will gain a plethora of information about the science of bone, bone grafting, and most importantly how they can increase implant success rates using micro-surgical techniques not possible with other bone graft products—importantly, satisfying patients and increasing their acceptance.

Register TODAY at https://holisticdental.org/2026-meeting/

11/02/2025

Looking to take your holistic hygiene department to a new level?

Attend the all-day workshop "Comprehensive Holistic Treatment of Periodontal Disease" at our 2026 HDA National Symposium on Thursday, April 9th.

Presented by Dr. Craig Zunka, DDS, FAGD, FASCD and Polly Hoverter, RDH

The workshop is intended for dentists, hygienists, assistants and even front office staff. We will cover diagnosis, treatment protocols, nutritional supplements and the system effects on the periodontal patient.

Dr. Zunka and Polly, RDH, have spent the last 30 years developing and perfecting a holistic periodontal program that gets real results. Their shared clinical experience and knowledge will reignite the passion you felt as a new graduate.

Objectives of the presentation:

How to design and grow a periodontal treatment plan that proves itself to you and your patients.
How to present a periodontal treatment plan to your patients.
Step-by-step instructions on the usage of a phase contrast microscope.
- How to incorporate it into your perio program.
- Learn what products to use based on varying bacteria present in the oral cavity to stop periodontal disease and allow healing to begin.
When, why, and how to phase out of active periodontal treatment and into maintenance without relapse.
Blood chemistry in connection with the healing of periodontal disease.
- Use of vitamins and minerals for healing (Vitamin D, Magnesium, Phosphorus, and Enzymes).
- Cortisol – stress and healing.
Homeopathic remedies in periodontal treatment.

Learn more about Dr. Zunka and Polly at www.craigzunkadds.com

10/30/2025

New to Holistic Dentistry? Not sure where to start?

Start with this must-attend half-day workshop at our 2026 Holistic Dental Association Symposium in Las Vegas, Nevada!

Dr. Bernice Teplitsky DDS, NMD, FAGD, AIAOMT will be presenting "HOLISTIC DENTISTRY 101" on Thursday morning, April 9th!

What does it mean to practice Holistic Dentistry?

This half-day course introduces dentists and teams to the philosophy, patient expectations, and essential tools that define a holistic practice.
You’ll learn what patients are really asking for, how to integrate holistic approaches into daily care, and the key modalities every practice should understand. While mastery requires further study, this session provides a comprehensive overview, practical takeaways you can apply immediately, and a roadmap for future growth. Come ready to learn and explore. The insights you gain will transform the way you see dentistry — and the way your patients see you.

Objectives of the presentation:

Gain a deeper understanding of Holistic Dentistry and its multidisciplinary approach.
Recognize the many “branches” of Holistic Dentistry and how they interconnect.
Have a general understanding of each of these “branches” and confidently discuss them with patients.
Identify what holistic patients are seeking and how to address their concerns.
Understand the essential technologies, materials, and products required — and where to source them.
Determine practical next steps for integrating or expanding your journey in Holistic Dentistry.

Learn more about Dr. Teplitsky and her practice on her website: https://wrigleyvilledental.com

10/29/2025

Presenting a half-day workshop at our 2026 Symposium on Thursday, April 9th is Dr. James Kennedy, D.D.S.

Clinical Nutrition: Silver Bullets

This presentation will be informative for the experienced doctor and doctors new to nutrition.

The lecture will highlight key dietary, physiologic and nutritional principles that will guide the doctor in recommending nutritional supplements in their practice. The importance of basic dietary changes that need to be made first, before providing nutritional support for the patient. Digestion and absorption of food will be emphasized so the body can utilize the nutritional products recommended.

Physical signs and symptoms that correlate with nutritional deficiencies – asking the right questions will be covered. Testing for the correct products will be explained. These tests will include at home tests, blood chemistry evaluation and online ordering of tests. Applied Kinesiology testing will be demonstrated.

Objectives of the presentation:

Educating the doctor, hygienist or assistant to become more comfortable with asking patients questions about their diet and health symptoms. We often see patients more often than their P*P.
Understand how nutrition can complement the practice of dentistry and help improve outcomes. Knowing what supplements to recommend.
Being able to identify health issues and refer patients to the appropriate health care provider to help in treating their symptoms.
Provide information on where to obtain appropriate testing and provide quality nutritional products for your patients. All supplements are not the same.

10/28/2025

Added to our 2026 Holistic Dental Association Symposium in Las Vegas!

TRANSITIONS:
PASSING THE TORCH WITH STYLE AND GRACE
presented by - Paul Sletten

This seminar will provide you with new insights into the current dental marketplace and holistic dentistry’s place in it. Mr. Sletten will also talk about how to start a holistic practice and transition a more mature practice by adding an associate or preparing to sell your practice. He will also talk about how to put your own plan together for a bright future. The Sletten Group has done 6,000 dental practice transitions in North America and Australia. They have more experience working with holistic practices than anyone else in the country.

Paul strongly believes that the private practice model still has a bright future for those who build a great team, run the practice effectively, provide excellent whole health outcomes and build strong patient relationships. He will address the current dental market and how to effectively compete with Corporate Practices and DSO’s.

Whether you are adding an associate, selling or buying a practice, growing by acquisition, merging with another practice, or considering other changes that will impact you and your practice, it is critical to plan ahead to help prevent unwanted chaos and disruption to care and loss of investment.

Adding an Associate or a Partner to a practice is a very exciting and complex process that requires customized planning for maximum success. The end goal is to create a future Buyer. One of the most important aspects of this process is the “human” or behavioral aspect of bringing two or more dentists together in a professional relationship.

A team-based model for adding an Associate incorporates the behavioral and relationship factors that are key in ensuring a successful transition. This model also includes a formula for growing a buyer for your practice based on shared values and philosophies.

It is critically important to find another dentist to join you who shares your vision for your practice and embraces your philosophy of patient care. By this we mean someone who is open to new possibilities, understands the value of your practice and its history, and recognizes and agrees with the way you approach patient treatment. It also means finding someone who understands and appreciates the value of a quality team.

Paul will be presenting on Friday, April 10th!