Qualified attendees wishing to attend the Leadership Symposium must register for Summit first here. VIP members include dental professionals currently Spear Navigator, Practice Solutions, Faculty Club Elite, or Faculty Club members, Spear Resident Faculty, Spear Visiting Faculty, Spear Study Club Leaders, and CDOCS Mentors and Mentors+.
Planning the Profile
Seven steps are involved in maximizing facial profile results. This presentation will discuss the steps and why they are essential to a perfect profile.
Learning Objectives:
Dr. Arnett graduated with honors from the University of Southern California dental school and completed a specialty in oral and maxillofacial surgery at the University of California, Los Angeles. His practice focused on facial reconstruction, combining surgery and research. From 1975 to 1985, he practiced oral and maxillofacial surgery; from 1985 to 2016, his practice was limited exclusively to orthognathic surgery. An international speaker, Arnett has published numerous papers on all aspects of orthognathic surgery. He co-authored Facial and Dental Planning for Orthodontists and Oral Surgeons with Dr. Richard McLaughlin and is the co-founder of FAB software, powered by Nemotec.
His academic roles included assistant professor in the Department of Orthodontics at Loma Linda University; clinical assistant professor at USC; senior lecturer in oral and maxillofacial surgery at UCLA; clinical professor in the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio; and visiting professor at the Universidad del Desarrollo School of Dentistry in Santiago, Chile.
Widely recognized for his contributions to orthodontics and surgery, Dr. Arnett received the B.F. and Helen E. Dewel Clinical Orthodontic Award and was honored with the paper of the year by the American Association of Orthodontists for his publication “Facial Keys to Orthodontic Diagnosis and Treatment Planning, parts 1 and 2.” In 2013, induction into the Dawson Academy acknowledged his outstanding contributions to dentistry, followed by his 2015 induction into the Edward H. Angle Society for his work in orthodontics and surgery. Most recently, in 2023, the American Association of Orthodontists awarded him the outstanding contribution award.
The Greatest Generation
It has been more than 40 years since adhesive concepts were introduced into dentistry. Numerous generations of adhesive protocols and techniques have been developed to bring predictability and longevity to our enamel/dentin bonds. Each has contributed to raising the bar in adhesive strength, efficiency and simplicity. But do the present technology and products represent “The Greatest Generation?” This program will provide an update on what is prevailing on adhesive battlefield!
About the Presenter:Early in his career, Dr. Bonk provided advanced training in the dental specialties of periodontics, oral surgery, and prosthetics, as well as training in hospital medicine and treatment of medically compromised patients during a one-year residency at the Loyola University Medical Center.
Dr. Bonk works with graduate dentists once per month in the General Practice Residency Program at Loyola Hospital in Maywood, Illinois. Additionally, he lectures locally and nationally about advanced restorative dentistry.
As a valued Spear Resident Faculty member since 2009, Dr. Bonk is a member of the Anterior Live Patient Faculty and serves as an instructor in the “Restorative Design” and “Anterior Restorative Dentistry” workshops.
Overcoming Clinical Challenges in a Restorative Dental Practice Using Techniques to Master the Adhesive Interface
Balancing a busy day in private practice with the many different materials and techniques we’re all exposed to can be confusing, frustrating and overwhelming. Accurate diagnosis, proper material selection and strong clinical skills are critical for achieving the best possible result. Minimally invasive procedures have proven to provide predictable and long-lasting results when the best techniques are applied. This fast-paced lecture will review adhesive science and showcase several clinical cases to demonstrate the possibilities.
About the Presenter:Dr. Brucia is a graduate of the University of the Pacific Dugoni School of Dentistry, where he is currently an assistant professor of dental practice. He is practicing esthetic and restorative dentistry full time in San Francisco, California. Dr. Brucia is the chair of the FACE Occlusion Study Club, where he directs all clinical education. He is the 2011 recipient of the Gordon J. Christensen Recognition Lecturer Award and the 2021 recipient of the Goldstein Burning Bush Award for excellence in dental education. In 2010, Dr. Brucia was elected a fellow of the American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry and served as the 2023 president. He has also been selected by Dentistry Today as one of the top clinicians in dental continuing education.
A Critical Perspective on Contemporary Adhesive Rehabilitation
Adhesive dentistry has revolutionized the dental profession over the past few decades. With science and evidence-based information, we now have a comprehensive understanding of the interactions between dental materials and the dental substrate. This presentation covers the challenges clinicians face every day and how certain decisions impact outcomes. The importance of dental preparation parameters and the proper selection of adhesive restorative material is critical for predictable clinical success.
About the Presenter:Dr. Carlos De Carvalho practices full-time in private practice in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil. He earned his PhD from the University of São Paulo (USP FOB) and holds a Master of Science in biomaterials from the University of Siena, Italy. He also completed a prosthodontics residency at the University of São Paulo (USP FOB).
Against All Odds... Modern Endodontic Clinical Outcomes
This will be a review of modern endodontic clinical outcomes studies as a guide for treatment planning. Dr. Chesler will review most current endodontic outcomes studies for all three phases of treatment (initial RCT, retreatment, and surgery) in an effort to provide an overview of the latest success rates and how success rates are changing with CBCT verses traditional radiographs.
About the Presenter:Dr. Matthew Chesler is a native of Wayzata, Minnesota, near the Twin Cities. After high school, he left the “frozen tundra” behind for sunnier days in Southern California, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology at UCSD and then moved on to USC School of Dentistry for his DDS degree in 2004. During his studies he received an AAE faculty award for excellence in Endodontics.
While at USC, Dr. Chesler received a full scholarship from the US Navy. He first reported for active duty to Camp Pendleton where he completed a one-year residency in Advanced Education in General Dentistry. Shortly afterwards, he became one of the youngest residents to ever be selected for the Endodontics residency program at the Naval Postgraduate Dental School in Bethesda, MD. He completed the program in 2008 and concurrently earned a postdoctoral Master of Science degree from The George Washington University, Washington, DC.
After graduation, he reported to Pearl Harbor, Hawaii as the Endodontics department head. Commander Chesler was transferred back to the San Diego area in early 2011 where he served as the head of the Endodontics department at Marine Corps Air Station, Miramar. In 2015 he separated from the Navy after eleven years of active duty but is currently a naval reservist.
Dr. Chesler has remained academically active. In Hawaii he was chairman of the annual Tri-Service Dental Symposium, providing lectures to all Oahu-based dental officers. He has also lectured extensively around the country providing general dentists and endodontists with the latest in endodontic continuing education and most recently completed multiple courses for SPEAR/CDOCS.
From Scan to Share: Streamlining Clinical Data in Exocad
Learn efficient workflows for capturing, managing, and sharing digital clinical data in Exocad to improve collaboration, precision, and treatment outcomes.
About the Presenter:Dr. Dichter brings nearly 20 years of clinical, research and teaching experience — as a general practitioner and prosthodontist — to his position with Spear. He serves as an instructor in the Treating the Terminal Dentition and Fully Edentulous Patient seminar, in addition to multiple Spear Workshops.
Dr. Dichter has served as a guest lecturer and clinical instructor at Oregon Health and Science University School of Dentistry, teaching occlusion and esthetics. He has been a Spear faculty member since the company’s inception, as well as a contributing author for Spear Digest. He is passionate about education and is involved with multiple study groups in the U.S. and Canada.
After earning his D.M.D. from OHSU in 1995, Dr. Dichter practiced general dentistry and eventually joined a startup practice in his hometown in coastal Oregon before moving to a practice in Portland. He brought 16 years of restorative dental experience into UCLA's world-renowned, full-time advanced prosthodontics residency, which he completed in 2014.
Advances in Materials and Concepts in the Rehabilitation of Complex Cases
Digital technologies offer access to more diagnostic information and enable greater predictability. With the shift to monolithic polymer materials, innovative options for evaluating esthetics and function are available. CAD/CAM-fabricated bimaxillary splints allow exploration of the final treatment goal through reversible test drives. Because the splints are removable, surgical, periodontal and restorative pretreatments can be integrated during this period. The transition to definitive restorations can be divided into multiple treatment steps, minimizing the risk factors of complex rehabilitations.
Learning Objectives
Daniel Edelhoff is currently director and chair of the Department of Prosthetic Dentistry at Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU) in Munich. He is a board-certified specialist in prosthodontics and a member of the advisory board of the German Society of Prosthodontics and Biomaterials, as well as a fellow of the American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry (AAED). Edelhoff received three “Best Teacher” awards in 2011, 2012, and 2013 from the dental students of LMU and the Bavarian Association of Dentists. Since 2014, he has been an active member of the European Academy of Esthetic Dentistry (EAED). In 2016, he became president of the German Association of Dental Technology (ADT) and in 2019, academic dean of dental medicine at LMU. In 2021, he was the scientific chairman of the first EAED virtual meeting.
The System Behind the Smile
Dr. Gunson's presentation explores how variations in facial skeletal structure and occlusal planes shape not only the appearance of the smile and overall facial esthetics, but also essential functions of the face—including breathing, eating, and communicating.
About the Presenter:Michael J. Gunson, DDS, MD, is a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon who practices in Santa Barbara, CA. He graduated from the UCLA Dental School and the Medical School and received his specialty certificate in oral and maxillofacial surgery from UCLA. Dr. Gunson partnered with Dr. G. William Arnett at the Center for Corrective Jaw Surgery in Santa Barbara, California. Their surgical practice has always been limited to diagnosing and treating facial growth problems by performing corrective jaw surgeries.
Dr. Gunson is passionate about facial esthetics and facial function, believing they go hand in hand. He diagnoses and treats patients with facial and dental esthetic concerns, difficulty with chewing and speaking, and sleep apnea. Dr. Gunson’s orthognathic and esthetic surgical techniques provide accurate, beautiful, and functional results that improve patient health and satisfaction.
Dr. Gunson is also an associate professor at the Boston University School of Dentistry, a resident faculty at Spear Education, and a member of many dental professional groups. He has hospital privileges at Goleta Valley Cottage Hospital and Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital. He enjoys teaching and lecturing throughout the world and publishing research on orthognathic surgery, facial function, dental and facial esthetics, obstructive sleep apnea, and the treatment of TMJ arthritis and condylar resorption.
Dr. Gunson loves his wife and three children, enjoys skiing, serving in his community, reading, speaking French, and researching ancient Near Eastern religions and practices.
Preparation Strategies for Porcelain Veneers: Minimal Reduction for Maximal Success
Successful porcelain veneers depend on thoughtful preparation that respects both esthetics and biology. This presentation will review preparation design principles supported by current evidence, emphasizing how depth, margin placement, and enamel preservation influence outcomes. Practical strategies will be outlined to help clinicians determine when to modify, when to conserve, and how to optimize adhesive performance.
About the Presenter:Dr. Effie Habsha received her Bachelor of Science degree and earned her DDS degree from the University of Toronto. Upon graduation, she completed a one-year General Practice Residency at Mount Sinai Hospital in Toronto, ON. Dr. Habsha received her Diploma in Prosthodontics and Master of Science degree, both from the University of Toronto.
She is a Fellow of the Royal College of Dentists of Canada (RCDC) and is an examiner and former Section Head for the Oral Examination in Prosthodontics for the RCDC. Dr. Habsha is an Adjunct Assistant Professor at the Department of Dentistry, Eastman Institute for Oral Health at the University of Rochester Medical Center. She has served as an Assistant Professor at the University of Toronto and currently instructs both at the undergraduate and graduate level in Prosthodontics at U of T. Dr. Habsha is a Professor at George Brown College of Applied Arts and Technology and is the On-staff Prosthodontist at MedCan clinic in Toronto.
She holds an appointment as Staff Prosthodontist at Mount Sinai Hospital where she in-structs the dental residents and is involved in various clinical research projects. Dr. Habsha is an Associate Fellow of the Academy of Prosthodontics and Greater New York Academy of Prosthodontics, a Fellow of The Pierre Fauchard Academy and holds memberships in numerous Prosthodontic organizations and societies.
She is a trailblazer and founder of Women in Dentistry: Work.Life.Balance, an organization dedicated to educating, networking and empowering women in the dental field. Dr. Habsha lectures both nationally and internationally on various Prosthodontic topics and maintains a private practice limited to Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry in Toronto.
Interdisciplinary Prosthetic Management of Esthetically Compromised Implants
This lecture presents a clinically driven workflow for the rehabilitation of esthetically compromised implants. Emphasis is placed on diagnostic protocols, soft tissue conditioning and prosthetic strategies to optimize peri-implant esthetics. The content integrates surgical prosthetic coordination to enhance predictability in complex anterior cases.
About the Presenter:Firmly entrenched within the high aesthetic requirements of Brazilian dentistry, I have focused my work on the demanding disciplines of soft tissue design and reconstruction. I have vast experience in immediate implant placement with temporization, from a single tooth to full-arch rehabilitation. I have been invited to lecture and perform training courses about soft tissue (design, preservation and reconstruction) in several post-graduate courses as well as congresses and seminars from Latin America to overseas.
The Resin Bonded Bridge: Indications, Technique, Zr Bonding
Examine when and how to use resin bonded bridges, with techniques for zirconia bonding that improve reliability and esthetics.
About the Presenter:Dr. Kinzer taught with Frank Spear, D.D.S., M.S.D., at the Seattle Institute for Advanced Dental Education from 1998 to 2009 prior to joining Spear Resident Faculty. He is a highly respected nationally and internationally recognized dental educator.
Additionally, Dr. Kinzer has written numerous articles and chapters for and serves on the editorial review board for various dental publications. He maintains a private practice in Seattle, WA with his wife, Dr. Jill Kinzer, limited to comprehensive restorative and esthetic dentistry. Their practice is world-renowned and listed as one of the select ‘Leading Dental Centers of the World.’
As Spear's Faculty Chairman, Dr. Kinzer serves as the Director of Curriculum and Campus Education and teaches several Spear courses and workshops, including Spear's Treatment Planning With Confidence workshop.
Expanding Possibilities: Customized Adult Expansion in Comprehensive Dentistry
As the connections between airway health, occlusion, facial structure and systemic wellness become clearer, dentists are in a key position to lead integrative, whole-patient treatment strategies. Drs. Ilya Lipkin and Tracey Nguyen will cover how customized expansion fits into the broader scope of comprehensive care — enhancing not only dental form and function but also breathing, sleep and overall quality of life. Clinical cases and practical insights will demonstrate how individualized expansion can elevate long-term patient outcomes and modern dental practice.
About the Presenter:Dr. Ilya Lipkin
Born in Moscow, Russia, Dr. Ilya Lipkin immigrated to the United States with his family in 1990. Working full time, he simultaneously earned a bachelor’s degree from New York University. He went on to earn his dental degree from NYU’s College of Dentistry. Dr. Lipkin then completed his residency in orthodontics in the college’s department of post-graduate orthodontics. An education enthusiast, he went on to get additional training in the Roth-Williams philosophy, which believes orthodontics should address all the structure of the chewing system, especially the jaw joints, which lack in traditional orthodontic education today.
“When I came to the United States, my teeth made me look like Dracula. Not surprisingly, in my second year of dental school I became an orthodontic patient and wore a full metal set of braces. I got them off a day before my wedding. Straightening my teeth was a life-changing process. It gave me the kind of self-confidence I’ve never had before. It had such an impact on my life that I decided I want to give that gift to other people. Dentistry is my love, but orthodontics is my PASSION!"
Dr. Tracey Nguyen
Dr. Tracey Nguyen is a scientific advisor for the Kois Center and a leader in dental education specializing in airway management and cosmetic dentistry. She combines her expertise to create smiles that are both beautiful and supportive of better breathing and overall health, maintaining a private practice just 30 minutes outside Washington, D.C., in Northern Virginia.
Accredited by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry since 2015 and named one of the Top 25 Women in Dentistry by Dental Products Report in 2016, Dr. Nguyen lectures on dentistry’s role in treating patients with dental malocclusions linked to airway and sleep disorders. She also serves as a visiting faculty mentor at Spear Education, frequently leading the Airway Workshop by Dr. Jeff Rouse.
In 2016, she founded the Sleep and Airway Group, a local interdisciplinary team focused on airway health. In 2020, she co-founded ASAP (Airway, Sleep and Pediatric Pathway), an online mini-residency for pediatric dental sleep medicine. With deep expertise in pediatric airway management, she treats and co-manages related conditions through dental interventions such as oral appliances, skeletal expansion, orthodontics and surgery. In 2024, she earned diplomate status with the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, recognized as the gold standard in the field. She advocates for airway screening beginning at birth and continuing throughout life.
An international speaker, Dr. Nguyen is part of the Seattle Study Club curriculum, connecting with more than 150 study clubs worldwide. Her social media platform fosters global collaboration among clinicians to improve understanding and treatment of airway disease.
Are We Playing Checkers or Chess?
The first clinical reality is that there are two types of patients in our practice. The first set of patients are the “checkers” patients where most of the problems we are treating occur at the tooth level. These patients are easier to treat, and we can enjoy a higher level of success using traditional restorative/occlusal/TMDs. The second set of patients are the “chess” patients where the problems can occur at the tooth level, but the genesis of the problems is at the skeletal level. These are the patients who are more challenging and using traditional restorative/occlusal/TMD concepts may lead to unpredictable outcomes.
The second clinical reality is that there are more “chess” patients than we assumed. We were taught most 90-95% of TMD issues were muscular in nature. Today, we know the percentage of patients with structurally altered TM joints is between 33-50% and even higher in practices with skilled diagnosticians. Many of the malocclusions we see as restorative dentists such as Class II malocclusion, open bites, canted occlusal planes, facial asymmetries, maxillary/mandibular retrognathia and compressed airway anatomy are the result of structurally altered TM joints.
The third clinical reality is that the structural alterations in the TM joint occur earlier in life than generally accepted by the dental and medical community. When TM joints are injured early in life, skeletal growth can be impacted that can result in compromises in facial esthetics, occlusion, and airway anatomy. The earlier we can recognize the problem, the earlier we can talk to the patient/parents about the possible treatment options.
About the Presenter:Dr. McKee has lectured both nationally and internationally for more than 25 years. Additionally, he is a published author who writes the Occlusion/TMD section of the “Annual Review of Selected Dental Literature,” published each year in the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry, along with textbook and article contributions.
He is in a private practice, in Downers Grove, Illinois, and has experience treating a wide variety of cases with a focus on predictable restorative dentistry.
Dr. McKee provides a new perspective on occlusion and TM joints that helps dentists understand how structural changes in the jaw joints influence not only occlusion and airway anatomy, but also the growth of the mandible and the maxilla.
As a valued Spear Resident Faculty member since 2017, Dr. McKee directs several Study Clubs and serves as an instructor in Spear's “Demystifying Occlusion” seminar and Spear's “Advanced Occlusion” workshop.
Outside of dentistry, Dr. McKee enjoys the humbling past time of golf and spending time with his family.
Comprehensive Treatment Planning Does Not Start with a Scan... It Starts with Questions
Too often, comprehensive treatment planning is thought to begin with technology—a scan, radiographs, or a digital workflow. In reality, it begins much earlier, with the questions we ask. This session will explore how assessing a patient’s cognitive, behavioral, and emotional status provides critical prognostic indicators that complement our traditional diagnostic tools. By integrating these dimensions into the planning process, we not only improve case predictability and treatment acceptance, but also elevate the patient experience. Attendees will walk away with practical strategies to incorporate meaningful questioning into their workflow and a renewed perspective on what it truly means to plan comprehensively.
About the Presenter:Dr. Mitrani has authored many scientific articles and chapters in textbooks on implant prosthodontics and esthetic dentistry and has given more than 500 lectures in 30 countries.
He maintains a private practice, Grupo Dental Bosques Oral Health & Smile Design, in Mexico City, limited to prosthodontics and implants.
As a valued Spear Resident Faculty member 2016, Dr. Mitrani serves as an instructor in Spear seminars, frequently contributes to Spear Digest, and develops numerous lessons for Spear Online.
On a personal note, Dr Mitrani has been happily married to his wife Sandra for 29 years and they have three amazing children. He is a music lover, a world traveler and considers himself a perpetual student!
Expanding Possibilities: Customized Adult Expansion in Comprehensive Dentistry
As the connections between airway health, occlusion, facial structure and systemic wellness become clearer, dentists are in a key position to lead integrative, whole-patient treatment strategies. Drs. Ilya Lipkin and Tracey Nguyen will cover how customized expansion fits into the broader scope of comprehensive care — enhancing not only dental form and function but also breathing, sleep and overall quality of life. Clinical cases and practical insights will demonstrate how individualized expansion can elevate long-term patient outcomes and modern dental practice.
About the Presenter:Dr. Tracey Nguyen
Dr. Tracey Nguyen is a scientific advisor for the Kois Center and a leader in dental education specializing in airway management and cosmetic dentistry. She combines her expertise to create smiles that are both beautiful and supportive of better breathing and overall health, maintaining a private practice just 30 minutes outside Washington, D.C., in Northern Virginia.
Accredited by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry since 2015 and named one of the Top 25 Women in Dentistry by Dental Products Report in 2016, Dr. Nguyen lectures on dentistry’s role in treating patients with dental malocclusions linked to airway and sleep disorders. She also serves as a visiting faculty mentor at Spear Education, frequently leading the Airway Workshop by Dr. Jeff Rouse.
In 2016, she founded the Sleep and Airway Group, a local interdisciplinary team focused on airway health. In 2020, she co-founded ASAP (Airway, Sleep and Pediatric Pathway), an online mini-residency for pediatric dental sleep medicine. With deep expertise in pediatric airway management, she treats and co-manages related conditions through dental interventions such as oral appliances, skeletal expansion, orthodontics and surgery. In 2024, she earned diplomate status with the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, recognized as the gold standard in the field. She advocates for airway screening beginning at birth and continuing throughout life.
An international speaker, Dr. Nguyen is part of the Seattle Study Club curriculum, connecting with more than 150 study clubs worldwide. Her social media platform fosters global collaboration among clinicians to improve understanding and treatment of airway disease.
Dr. Ilya Lipkin
Born in Moscow, Russia, Dr. Ilya Lipkin immigrated to the United States with his family in 1990. Working full time, he simultaneously earned a bachelor’s degree from New York University. He went on to earn his dental degree from NYU’s College of Dentistry. Dr. Lipkin then completed his residency in orthodontics in the college’s department of post-graduate orthodontics. An education enthusiast, he went on to get additional training in the Roth-Williams philosophy, which believes orthodontics should address all the structure of the chewing system, especially the jaw joints, which lack in traditional orthodontic education today.
“When I came to the United States, my teeth made me look like Dracula. Not surprisingly, in my second year of dental school I became an orthodontic patient and wore a full metal set of braces. I got them off a day before my wedding. Straightening my teeth was a life-changing process. It gave me the kind of self-confidence I’ve never had before. It had such an impact on my life that I decided I want to give that gift to other people. Dentistry is my love, but orthodontics is my PASSION!"
Scale Up Your Practice with Advanced Surgical and Prosthetic Digital Technologies for FP1 Complete Arch
All-on-X with bone reduction is not the only solution for full-arch rehabilitation. This presentation outlines a personalized, AI-driven plan that enables precise digital planning, implant placement and immediate loading, redefining the bone and soft tissue interface for FP1 prostheses. Navigation technology supports guided surgery and immediate post-op digital impressions, improving accuracy and predictability in complex cases such as edentulous or terminal dentition patients.
Advanced algorithms enhance prosthetically and soft tissue-driven implant positioning, allowing same-day delivery of natural-looking FP1 prostheses without pink support. A step-by-step, evidence-based overview will guide attendees through the latest digital, surgical and prosthetic protocols.
Learning Objectives
Dr. Alessandro Pozzi, DDS, PhD, has practiced since 1997 and specializes in oral surgery, orthodontics and TMJ dysfunctions. Licensed by both the Italian General Dental Council and the UK General Dental Council, Pozzi serves as a clinical researcher and professor at the University of Rome Tor Vergata. He is also an adjunct clinical professor at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry and an adjunct associate professor at Augusta University’s Dental College of Georgia. Lecturing at Harvard School of Dental Medicine further highlights his academic contributions.
Named a fellow of the Academy of Osseointegration in 2020, Pozzi earned a dual-specialist diploma in surgical and prosthetic implant dentistry from the academy in 2023. The following year, he became a member of the American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry.
Widely published and internationally recognized for his clinical research, Pozzi founded the Pozzi Institute in Rome. The center meets strict academic and clinical standards set by the academy and attracts colleagues from around the world for training. Recognized globally as an expert in digital implant dentistry and advanced technologies such as navigation and robotics, he focuses on the surgical and prosthetic aspects of full-arch digital treatment using FP1 and All-on-X protocols, with an emphasis on digitally driven, personalized esthetic outcomes.
Maxillary Transverse Deficiency Syndrome: CBCT and Clinical Analysis of Skeletal Width
Dr. Rathburn’s presentation will look at the legacy of Dr. Jim McNamara’s “Maxillary transverse deficiency syndrome” which he coined during his pivotal ortho research and editorials in the orthodontic literature. The talk will translate his analysis from inter-molar width to skeletal widths utilizing intraoral photos and CBCT methodology providing a simple, effective, and meaningful understanding of maxillary transverse deficiency (and its consequences).
About the Presenter:Dr. Tyler Rathburn is a proud graduate of the University of Virginia (GO HOOS!) where he earned a BA in Religious Studies in 2009. Dr. “Tyler” earned his DMD degree at the Medical College of Georgia (now Augusta University) in 2013 and his orthodontic certificate from MCG in 2015. He challenged and passed his ABO certification exam in early 2016. He immediately joined Atlanta Orthodontic Specialists practicing with his parents Dr. Michael Stewart and Dr. Melisa Rathburn. In addition, he is proud to practice with Dr. Chris Brady, Dr. Kent Starling, and Dr. India Collier.
Dr. Tyler is an active member of the American Dental Association, the American Association of Orthodontists, and a diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics. He was involved in a leadership role with Southern Association of Orthodontists as an alternate delegate representing new and younger members until 2020.
Outside the office, Dr. Tyler enjoys spending time with his wife Stephanie (another former UVA grad!), two dogs Ray-Ray and Cocoa, and their new daughter Charlotte! He enjoys traveling, skiing, music, and having the opportunity to lecture with CDOCS, Suresmile, and Dentsply!
Beyond the Bite: Understanding the Maxillomandibular Connection
Discover how maxillomandibular relationships impact occlusion, function, and esthetics, and learn strategies to integrate this understanding into treatment planning.
About the Presenter:Dr. Ringhofer has over two decades of experience treating complex restorative cases and patients suffering from temporomandibular joint disorders.
He has maintained a private practice in Orland Park, IL since 2001 and has lectured on occlusion and temporomandibular joint disorders to various groups and study clubs throughout the country.
As a valued Spear Faculty member, Dr. Ringhofer serves as instructor in the Occlusion Workshop, sharing his knowledge and the connection between occlusion and predictable dentistry.
Clear Aligners in Interdisciplinary Dentofacial Therapy (IDT): Asset or Liability?
In recent years, clear aligners have revolutionized orthodontic treatment, offering patients enhanced esthetics, comfort and convenience. However, the critical question remains: Are clear aligners an asset or a liability for the interdisciplinary team striving to achieve the highest standards of health and esthetics for their patients? This presentation will address that question, focusing on morbidity, predictability, functionality, chair time, treatment time and, of course, the overall excellence of the final interdisciplinary result. Key points will be illustrated with numerous interdisciplinary cases, including complex ones focusing on overall patient beauty and wellness.
About the Presenter:Dr. Roblee practiced general restorative dentistry in Dallas before returning to pursue graduate studies in orthodontics at Baylor College of Dentistry. Recognized worldwide for his work in esthetic dentistry, orthodontic techniques and interdisciplinary therapy, Roblee has delivered more than 500 professional presentations across the United States, Canada, Europe, Australia and Japan.
A diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, Roblee is also the author of numerous publications and videos, including the textbook Interdisciplinary Dentofacial Therapy: A Comprehensive Approach to Optimal Patient Care (Quintessence Publishing Co., Inc.).
In addition to his private practice, he serves as an associate clinical professor at Baylor College of Dentistry in both the restorative and orthodontic departments. Roblee is an active member of several prestigious dental organizations, including the American Academy of Fixed Prosthodontics, the American Academy of Restorative Dentistry and the American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry, where he is a past president.
Did You Give Them a Chance to be Healthy?
A search of the most popular dental social media sites revealed the largest number focused on cosmetic dentistry. In reviewing those sites, most of the cases did not offer orthodontics before restoration. They chose instead to camouflage the deficiencies with composite or ceramic. Today, it is becoming abundantly clear that compromised skeletal and/or dentoalveolar anatomy is a primary factor in stressful breathing both day and night. The repeated alterations in flow will damage individuals: neurocognitively and systemically. Dentists can improve a patient's smile and quality of life by recommending anatomic correction over camouflage. Not everyone will accept these interdisciplinary plans, but everyone should be given a chance to be healthy.
About the Presenter:While Dr. Rouse is recognized as a pioneer in the field of airway prosthodontics, his true love is advanced interdisciplinary treatment planning. In fact, he co-wrote a textbook by Quintessence titled, Global Diagnosis: A New Vision of Dental Diagnosis and Treatment Planning. As a valued member of the Spear Resident Faculty since 2017, Dr. Rouse teaches in our Worn Dentition, Art of Treatment Planning, and Airway Prosthodontics seminars. He also teaches the Spear FGTP, Airway, and Advanced Treatment Planning workshops. He assisted in the development of our Spear Interactive- Esthetics residency.
Dr. Rouse, along with fellow Spear Resident Faculty member, Dr. Gregg Kinzer, developed the "Seattle Protocol” to recognize, control, and direct resolution of airway distress in a restorative dental practice. Dr. Rouse has written numerous journal articles, including a portion of the “Annual Review of Selected Dental Literature,” published each summer in the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry.
Dr. Rouse maintains a private practice in San Antonio and practiced with Dr. Kinzer in Seattle.
The Existing Implant: A Decision Tree to Revise or Remove
Learn a structured decision-making process to determine whether to maintain, revise, or remove compromised implants for optimal long-term results.
About the Presenter:Dr. Kimberly Schlam is a private practice prosthodontist in Bend, Oregon. Her practice focuses on patient centric, multi-specialty, collaborative care. Her research has focused on patient reported quality of life outcomes of implant prosthetics. She focuses on using digital technology to improve techniques, communication, and enhance her patients’ experiences. Dr. Schlam received her dental training from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine and her Certificate of Prosthodontics and Master’s degree from UNC Chapel Hill. She has also served as an active duty US Army prosthodontist.
Immediate Restorations Redefined: Predictability in a Digital Era
Modern immediate implant protocols can save time for both clinicians and patients. To realize these benefits, treatment options must be critically compared, weighing the risks associated with faster procedures. If risks are low and success rates are similar — especially regarding esthetic outcomes — longer treatments may not be justified. Achieving efficiency requires team-based planning to minimize complications. When done correctly, immediate restoration can be the best option. This lecture will cover current strategies for single-tooth and full-arch cases, with a focus on digital tools and how technology can help reduce treatment time and improve interdisciplinary outcomes.
About the Presenter:Dr. Paul Leonhard Schuh received his dental degree from the private University Witten/Herdecke in 2012. Before this, he completed a three-year dental technician program in Bamberg, Germany. At the dental clinic of Witten/Herdecke University, he worked as a research associate in the department of prosthodontics and dental technology of Prof. Dr. Andree Piwowarczyk. In 2013, he joined the team of Dr. Wolfgang Bolz and Prof. Dr. Hannes Wachtel at Implaneo Dental Clinic in Munich for a postgraduate program in periodontology and implantology.
Dr. Schuh was a lecturer at the Institute for Periodontology and Implantology Munich (IPI) and has published scientific articles in journals for implant and esthetic dentistry. Since 2014, he has been an associate fellow and an expert of the Foundation for Oral Rehabilitation (FOR) and is a lecturer of the Dresden International University “Master of Science of Periodontology and Implant Therapy” in cooperation with the German Society of Periodontology. Since 2021, he has been the founder of his own digital dental office, “artedent,” in Munich.
Dr. Schuh is ambassador for the Digital Dentistry Society Germany. He has been an active member of the “Neue Gruppe” since 2020.
How AI and Cloud Computing are Reshaping Diagnosis and Design Solutions
AI is a keyword that is being used quite frequently in many industries, but how is this actually affecting us in Dentistry? Radiographic diagnosis and CAD Design are the most commonly used AI in Dentistry, and both are rapidly evolving. In this lecture we will discuss how we are using it now, what it's changing, what the future is looking like and how all solutions can help us as dentists deliver more efficient, predictable patient care.
About the Presenter:Dr. Skramstad is a 2000 graduate of the University Of Minnesota School Of Dentistry. He is a certified advanced Digital Dentistry trainer and has lectured internationally on technology, implantology and digital dentistry. Dr. Skramstad is an Alpha/Beta tester for Dentsply Sirona and enjoys working closely with the engineering team to help with hardware/software development. A product consultant for multiple dental companies, he has the pleasure to test and evaluate many products prior to market launch and has published numerous articles on materials and CAD/CAM.
Dr. Skramstad is a resident faculty member at Spear Education, an advanced continuing education center in Scottsdale, AZ. He also maintains a successful restorative practice in Orono, MN focusing on Esthetic, Implant and CAD/CAM Dentistry.
Ultraconservative Management of Discolored Teeth
Discover minimally invasive strategies to manage tooth discoloration, preserving structure while achieving esthetic and functional success.
About the Presenter:After spending three years in oral surgery residency in London and a year practicing restorative dentistry in London's Harley Street Medical District, Dr. Smithson relocated to Cornwall in the extreme southwest of England.
Dr. Smithson has a specific interest in direct composite resin artistry and minimally invasive ceramic restorations and has presented on these topics locally, nationally, and internationally. Additionally, he has provided hands-on programs in the UK, Europe, Asia, Canada and USA on behalf of GC, Ivoclar, Kerr, Hereaus, Optident, Micerium, Carl Zeiss, Global, Velopex and Triodent.
Dr. Smithson has published numerous articles on adhesive and aesthetic dentistry in both the UK and abroad. He is joint author of Vertical Margin Finish Lines In Fixed Prosthodontics (Elsvier, in print).
He currently practices at Revitalise Dental Centre, where his focus is microscope enhanced adhesive dentistry.
As a valued Spear Resident Faculty member since 2021, Dr. Smithson is the only European Resident Faculty member and serves as an instructor in the Composite Program.
Dr. Smithson is married to wife Kate with whom he has two children. He enjoys a good glass of Australian red wine, gardening, and traveling.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Tooth Fractures
Gain evidence-based protocols for diagnosing and treating tooth fractures, improving predictability and preserving natural dentition whenever possible.
About the Presenter:As one of the world's most recognized prosthodontists and ceramists, Dr. Winter teaches dentists in Spear Workshops to understand the interdependence between laboratory procedures, treatment planning, restorative techniques, materials and laboratory procedures.
In addition to teaching, Dr. Winter produces Spear Study Club modules and creates a variety of clinical content for the Spear learning ecosystem. He has taught more than 900 didactic, clinical and technical courses in more than 40 countries. For the past 36 years, he has maintained a private practice limited to prosthodontics, and currently practices in Newport Beach, California. He is co-founder of Esthetics by Design dental laboratory and is past president of the American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry.
Dr. Winter graduated in 1981 from Marquette University School of Dentistry and completed his prosthodontic specialty residency at the VA Medical Center in Milwaukee in 1983.
