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Women in Dentistry 16th Annual Symposium

Redefining Women in Dentistry: Innovation, Women’s Health and Leadership

Register Now!

Parkview Manor

55 Barber Greene Rd, North York, ON M3C 2A1

April 17th, 2026
Full Day Symposium
(Salon A: 6 CE Credits | Salon B: 4 CE Credits)

April 18th, 2026
Hands-on Workshops
(6 CE Credits)

Day 1 - April 17th
Day 2 - April 18th

Full-day Symposium Overview

April 17, 2026

Time Event
7:30-8:20 am REGISTRATION AND BREAKFAST
8:20-8:30 am Opening Remarks
Dr. Effie Habsha
8:30-10:00 am Inside and Out: A Multidisciplinary Panel on Women’s Health
Panelists:
Dr. Elaine Herer – OB/GYN
Dr. Kristy Bailey – Dermatologist
Dr. Hala Kufaishi – Internal Medicine/Bariatrics

Salon A

Time Event Speakers
10:00-10:30 am Morning Break
10:35-11:15 am Reading Between the Red and White Dr. Michelle Huang
11:20-12:00 pm Making Sense of TMDs: From Diagnosis to Patient-Centred Management Dr. Amelia Edmonds
12:00-1:15 pm Lunch
1:25-2:10 pm Pediatric Dentistry: Clinical Pearls Dr. Yili Yang & Dr. Laura Vertullo
2:15-3:00 pm Restorative Dentistry – Ivoclar TBD
3:00-3:15 pm Afternoon Break
3:20-4:00 pm Implant/Surgical Dentistry TBD
4:15-4:30 pm Wrap Up / Raffle Dr. Effie Habsha

Salon B

Time Event Speakers
1:25-2:10 pm Ease and Abundance with AI Allison Lacoursiere
2:15-3:00 pm The Reprocessing Challenge: A Hands-On IPAC Game for Instrument Sterilization Mastery Michelle Aube-Simmonds RDH
3:00-3:15 pm Afternoon Break
3:20-4:00 pm Disney Dental: Transforming patient experience and practice culture Dr. Sally Safa
4:15-4:30 pm Wrap Up / Raffle Dr. Effie Habsha

Full Symposium Event Details

April 17, 2026

Salon A & B

8:30-10:00 am

Inside and Out: A Multidisciplinary Panel on Women’s Health

Dr. Elaine Herer, Dr. Kristy Bailey, and Dr. Hala Kufaishi

Description:
This multidisciplinary panel brings together three leaders in women’s health to discuss the dynamic relationship between internal wellness, hormonal balance, metabolic health, and skin vitality. Attendees will explore how shifts in hormones affect physical, mental, and dermatologic health — and how lifestyle, nutrition, and preventive care can play pivotal roles in achieving long-term wellness.

Through real-world case examples and collaborative insights, the panel will empower healthcare professionals to integrate a more holistic and multidisciplinary approach into their practices.

Objectives:

  • Recognize the key hormonal and systemic changes that impact women’s overall health throughout different life stages.
  • Understand the interplay between dermatologic conditions and internal health, including how to identify early signs of hormonal or metabolic imbalance.
  • Evaluate the role of lifestyle, nutrition, and metabolic health in preventing and managing women’s health concerns.
  • Apply multidisciplinary approaches to enhance patient care by fostering collaboration between dental, medical, and aesthetic professionals.

Dr. Elaine Herer

Dr. Elaine Herer is a senior staff member at Sunnybrook Health Sciences centre in the Dan Women and Babies Programme. She has a passion in Women's Health Care and has been an academic teacher throughout my career. She’s had the honour of sharing over 20,000 deliveries with patients over the decades.

Her greatest accomplishment are the two adults she calls her children, and her 2 grandchildren, ages 1 and 2!

Dr. Hala Kufaishi

Dr. Hala Kufaishi is an experienced Internal Medicine Consultant, Clinical Professor at McMaster University, and a recognized expert in Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome. She holds a Fellowship from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (2019) and is a Diplomate of the American Board of Obesity Medicine.

Dr. Kufaishi has a comprehensive background in the management of complex conditions, including diabetes, dyslipidemia, hypertension, sleep apnea, osteoarthritis, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). She is committed to advancing patient care in this rapidly evolving field and contributing to innovative healthcare initiatives. As the Founder, Medical Director, and CEO of The Weight Clinic in Mississauga, Ontario, Dr. Kufaishi has led multidisciplinary teams in delivering personalized, evidence-based care to thousands of patients, focusing on obesity and related metabolic disorders.

In addition to over five years of clinical and academic teaching experience, Dr. Kufaishi brings two decades of research expertise. She is deeply involved in medical education and research in Obesity Medicine, and previously served as Chair of the Hamilton Chapter of Obesity Canada. Her work reflects a strong passion for evidence-based practice, interprofessional collaboration, and patient-centered care.

Dr. Kristy Bailey

Dr. Kristy Bailey is a double board-certified dermatologist in Canada and the USA with advanced training in cosmetic surgery and minimally invasive procedures. Her expertise includes neuromodulators such as Botox, dermal fillers, hair restoration, blepharoplasty, and specialized laser treatments for several skin conditions. A published author and international lecturer, Dr. Bailey serves on the Editorial Boards of the Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery and Cutaneous and Ocular Toxicology. As founder and medical director of FCP Dermatology, she combines cutting-edge techniques with personalized care to deliver natural, refined results.

Salon A

10:35-11:15 am

Reading Between the Red and White

Dr. Michelle Huang

11:20-12:00 pm

Making Sense of TMDs: From Diagnosis to Patient-Centred Management

Dr. Amelia Edmonds

Description:
This lecture will provide a practical update on the current research to help clinicians better understand what “TMD” really means, use a shared diagnostic language, and adopt a truly patient-centred approach to care. We’ll review the latest clinical practice guidelines, discuss efficient strategies for managing patients, and clarify when to treat, when to refer, and how to communicate findings confidently in everyday practice.

Objectives:

  • Recognize and diagnose musculoskeletal TMDs using standardized diagnostic criteria.
  • Develop effective management strategies for patients with TMDs, following evidence-based clinical guidelines.
  • Learn practical ways to deliver patient-centred care.
  • Enhance communication skills for effectively educating patients about TMDs.

Dr. Amelia Edmonds

Dr. Amelia Edmonds is a chiropractor practicing in Toronto at the Jaw and Facial Pain Centre. She is a graduate of McMaster University and the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College. Amelia has dedicated her practice to treating musculoskeletal orofacial pain with conservative therapies. She is passionate about advancing the field of orofacial pain management through teaching continuing education courses for manual therapists and fostering collaboration with the dental community.

1:25-2:10 pm

Clinical Pearls in Pediatric Dentistry

Dr. Laura Vertullo & Dr. Yili

Description:
This course is an overview on the management of common pediatric dental problems including diagnosis, treatment planning and executions. We will discuss the challenges facing this unique population and strategies to overcome parental barriers and poor cooperation.

Objectives:

  • Recognizing that primary dentition are not simply small versions of adult dentition
  • Diagnosing common pediatric dental conditions
  • Learning to cater treatment plan to the patient and family

Dr. Laura Vertullo

Dr. Laura Vertullo was born and raised in Montreal. She graduated from McGill University with her Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree and then went on to complete her general practice residency in 2015 at The Hospital for Sick Children. Dr. Laura completed her paediatric specialty training and Master’s degree from the University of Toronto. Dr Laura resides in Oakville and is mother to four kids and two dogs.

Dr. Yili

Dr. Yili obtained her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of British Columbia in 2012. Her love for treating children led her to complete a residency program at The Hospital for Sick Children and subsequently her Masters degree and specialty training in paediatric dentistry at the University of Toronto. Outside of work, she is busy with her two kids and having coffee with friends.

Salon B

1:25-2:10 pm

Ease and Abundance with AI

Allison Lacoursiere

Description:
Reimagining Productivity, Profitability, and Peace of Mind in Modern Dentistry

Artificial intelligence is no longer the future—it is the differentiator of thriving dental practices today. This session will bridge the gap between high-level innovation and everyday practice efficiency. With her signature blend of neuroscience, leadership strategy, and feminine flow, Allison demystifies AI and shows how it can be used to simplify systems, streamline communication, and scale profitability—without increasing stress or hours worked. From marketing automation to patient communication, reporting, and treatment coordination, she’ll reveal how small shifts in how you leverage technology can lead to exponential ease and abundance in your business and life.

This is not a technical lecture—it’s a mindset and systems revolution. Attendees will walk away understanding how to partner with AI to work smarter, create space for leadership and creativity, and ultimately build a practice that runs like a high-performing business—while allowing you to lead with presence and joy.

Objectives:

  • Discover the real-world applications of AI across marketing, communication, scheduling, case acceptance, and team productivity within dental practices.
  • Identify opportunities to automate repetitive tasks so your team can focus on patient experience and revenue-generating activities.
  • Learn simple, accessible AI tools that enhance efficiency, accuracy, and profitability—no tech background required.
  • Adopt a growth-oriented mindset that sees technology not as a threat, but as a powerful partner for expansion, ease, and abundance.

Allison Lacoursiere

Coaching LTD and Women in Digital Dentistry, is a globally recognized leadership strategist and business growth expert. As an Associate Certified Coach through the International Coaching Federation and a Rotman School of Management-certified expert in Women’s Leadership, Allison uniquely integrates neuroscience, AI, intuition, and high-performance strategies to empower women worldwide.

An influential voice in premium leadership and effortless success, Allison is passionate about guiding women to quantum leaps in their personal and professional lives. She has collaborated with prestigious organizations such as Align Technology, Dental Speakers Institute, and She Sells, delivering transformative experiences that blend luxury, strategy, and actionable insights.

Allison’s forthcoming book, The Book of Roses, further cements her commitment to empowering women through deep inner transformation, creating a ripple effect of healing and abundance in the world.

2:15-3:00 pm

The Reprocessing Challenge: A Hands-On IPAC Game for Instrument Sterilization Mastery

Michelle Aube-Simmonds RDH

Description:
Instrument reprocessing is one of the most critical components of infection prevention and control. Yet understanding each step of the workflow can often feel repetitive or overwhelming.

This course breaks it down into clear, practical stages, examining the one-way workflow and all its key stations: receiving, cleaning, packaging, sterilizing, and storing. Participants will engage in image-based reprocessing scenarios, testing their knowledge by identifying correct and incorrect techniques, sequencing steps, and troubleshooting common workflow errors. This interactive, game-based format transforms theory into practice, making IPAC education both engaging and memorable. You’ll learn the why behind each step, not just the how, strengthening critical thinking and empowering you to become an IPAC champion in your practice.

Objectives:
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

  • Describe each stage of the one-way reprocessing workflow, receiving, cleaning, packaging, sterilizing, storing, and explain its purpose within IPAC.
  • Evaluate reprocessing practices through image-based scenarios, identifying correct techniques, sequencing errors, and opportunities for improvement.
  • Apply critical thinking to link IPAC theory with practice, understanding the why behind each step to enhance compliance and elevate overall sterilization quality.

Michelle Aube-Simmonds

Michelle is an empowering and charismatic Dental Hygiene Speaker, Consultant, and Educator with over 30 years of experience. She serves as a professor at Fanshawe College and is maxill’s Director of CE and IPAC. Michelle audits dental clinics in federal correctional facilities and holds the role of ODHA Regional Board Director. In 2025, Michelle received the ODHA Distinction award for her commitment to the DH profession. She contributes regularly to OH Canada, CDHA’s national publication, and maintains a clinical practice in London, ON. Michelle is also a CDHO IPAC Remedial Facilitator and Expert Opinion provider and previously served as a CDHO QA Assessor. A committed lifelong learner, she is completing a BA in Adult Education at Brock University. Michelle’s extensive and diverse background across clinical, regulatory, and educational sectors gives her a practical, well-rounded perspective on dental topics. She is recognized for her articulate communication, comprehensive expertise, and steadfast commitment, exemplifying grassroots leadership in fostering a more equitable and sustainable future for the oral health profession.

3:20-4:00 pm

Disney Dental: Transforming patient experience and practice culture

Dr. Sally Safa

Description:
The Disney Way teaches that “dream, believe, dare, and do” are not just words — they are a framework the is highly relevant and impactful for building extraordinary organizations. By harnessing the management secrets of Disney into the dental practice we can move beyond routine care to create memorable experiences for every patient.

Our goal is to create an environment where patients feel cared for, not just treated and staff feel empowered.

Objectives:
Using Disney’s customer-centric culture we will learn:

  • Learn “On Stage” behaviour: every moment counts.
  • Learn how to handle complaints with empathy and empowerment.
  • Learn how to hire for attitude and train for skill.
  • Learn how to empower the frontline to take ownership and solve small issues.

Dr. Sally Safa

Dr. Sally Safa is a Periodontist and an alumna of the University of Toronto, where she maintains a position as lecturer. She works in private practice in Toronto. Dr. Safa is a passionate advocate of wellness for the dental community. Dr. Safa's Master's research was in the field of Psychoneuroimmunology, understanding the effects of stress on the body. This background combined with her education in the field of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction allows her to share the science behind stress and mindfulness and tools in how to cope with stress in our day to day lives.

Hands-On Courses

April 18, 2026

Lecture & Hands-On Workshop 1

Category 2 | 6 CE | AGD Subject Code: 250
Time Event Speakers
9:00 am - 4:00 pm Essential Composite Skills Dr. Lunana Oliveria-Hauss

Lecture & Hands-On Workshop 2

Category 2 | 6 CE | AGD Subject Code: 070
Time Event Speakers
9:00 am - 4:00 pm Enhance your Practice and Endodontic Skills Dr. Sophia Lalani

Lecture & Hands-On Workshop 3

Category 2 | 6 CE | AGD Subject Code: ???
Time Event Speakers
9:00 am - 4:00 pm TBD TBD

Hands-On Event Details

Lecture & Hands On Workshop 1
Category 2 | 6 CE | AGD Subject Code: 250

9:00am - 4:00pm

Essential Composite Skills

Dr. Lunana Oliveria-Hauss

Description:
Hands on decriptions

Objectives:

  • objective 1
  • objective 2
  • objective 3
  • objective 4

Dr. Lunana Oliveria-Hauss

Bio information

Lecture & Hands On Workshop 2
Category 2 | 6 CE | AGD Subject Code: 070

9:00am - 4:00pm

Endodontic Hands-on Training: Enhance your Practice and Endodontic Skills

Dr. Sophia Lalani

Description:
From diagnosis to obturation, this hands-on course guides clinicians through the essential steps of successful endodontic treatment. Participants will strengthen their diagnostic and clinical skills while gaining confidence in managing a wide range of endodontic cases. The course combines didactic instruction with hands-on exercises in instrumentation—featuring the new Reciproc file system—as well as irrigation and obturation techniques.

Objectives:

  • Demonstrate proficiency in the diagnosis and case selection of a wide range of endodontic conditions, including the management of cracked teeth.
  • Apply effective instrumentation techniques using the Reciproc file system to optimize root canal preparation.
  • Apply proper irrigation and obturation techniques to enhance cleaning, disinfection, and sealing of the root canal system.

Dr. Sophia Lalani

Dr. Sophia Lalani is an endodontist practicing in Toronto. She earned her undergraduate degree in Computer Engineering from McGill University before completing her Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) and specialty training in Endodontics at Boston University. Dr. Lalani is a past President of the Ontario Society of Endodontics and an active member of the Ontario Dental Association. She is dedicated to sharing her expertise through continuing education courses offered both privately and via the ODA Education Hub. Additionally, she serves on the ODA Student Services Committee.

Outside of dentistry, Dr. Lalani is a lifelong fitness enthusiast who enjoys playing hockey and staying active, as well as spending quality time with her family.

Lecture & Hands On Workshop 3
Category ? | ? CE | AGD Subject Code: ???

10:00am - 4:00pm

Title

Speaker

Description:
Hands on decriptions

Objectives:

  • objective 1
  • objective 2
  • objective 3
  • objective 4

Instructor

Bio information

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