TODS FEATURED SPEAKER
Microbial Marvels: Navigating The Oral Ecosystem
Beth Parkes, RDH & Kerry Lepicek , RDH
Session Date: Thursday October 22, 2026
Session Time: 6:00-9:00pm
Presenter Name: Beth Parkes, RDH and Kerry Lepicek, RDH
Outline:
Get ready to embark on a thrilling journey through the microscopic world of bacteria in this interactive course. Join Kerry and Beth as they uncover the fascinating dynamics between good and bad bacteria and explore how they impact oral and systemic health. In this course, you’ll become a microbial detective, learning how to assess patient risks and detect the presence of harmful bacteria using cutting-edge tools and techniques.
We’ll also discover a treasure trove of tools and adjuncts designed to pinpoint and eliminate specific bacteria while preserving the delicate balance of the oral ecosystem.
Learning Objectives:
- Demonstrate comprehension of the key factors contributing to periodontal breakdown and propose viable options to mitigate associated risks.
- Analyze clinical studies investigating the efficacy of probiotics in reducing the risk of oral diseases such as dental caries, periodontitis, and halitosis.
- Assess the significance of incorporating strain-specific probiotic bacteria into dental practice and explore their potential as a groundbreaking approach in dentistry.
- Critically evaluate scientific evidence and literature supporting existing adjunctive therapy recommendations for oral health management.
- Formulate effective strategies for implementing patient-specific care plans that prioritize the maintenance of a balanced and thriving oral microflora ecosystem.
About The Speakers
Beth Parkes RDH, BSc is an engaging international speaker who has been a Registered Dental Hygienist for over 20 years. She has gained her clinical knowledge and skills through general and independent dental hygiene practice, mobile dental hygiene, orthodontics and periodontics. Beyond her clinical experience, Beth is the Manager of Clinical Affairs for Curion, a writer, a speaker, co-host of the Smile Smarter Study club and a board member of Dental Hygiene Quarterly. In recognition of her contributions to the profession, she was awarded the Ontario Dental Hygienists’ Association Distinguished Service Award. 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 is a registered dental hygienist with over 20 years of clinical experience. She currently works at Clinical Research Dental as a Clinical Specialist in Dental Hygiene and Education. She is an author and has lectured both locally and internationally. Kerry is knowledgeable on the topics of oral biofilm, teeth whitening, halitosis, the oral-systemic connection, and the dental hygiene process of care. Her focus is on educating her clients and the dental profession on health and wellness.
Kerry is involved in various dental organizations, including as section editor for Women in Dentistry, on the Research Advisory Committee for the Ontario Dental Hygiene Association and on the Advisory Board for RDH Magazine. She recently received the Distinguished Services Award from the 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.
Co-Sponsor
Curion Dental – Curion Dental Products
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