Program Highlights* (Early Preview)
Get a look at early program highlights for the 2026 National Conference.
The full program will be released in Spring 2026!
Clinical Practice & Periodontal Care
Advance your clinical expertise with sessions on periodontal and peri-implant disease, diagnostic decision-making, and evidence-based treatment approaches, including:
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Relationships between the host immune system, oral microbiome, and periodontal disease
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Emerging trends in the etiology and treatment of periodontal disease
- Periodontal and peri-implant disease classification system
Technology & the Future of Dental Hygiene
Explore how innovation and artificial intelligence are shaping the future of dental hygiene care and professional practice:
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Artificial intelligence in dentistry and its impact on clinical decision-making
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Evolving ownership models are shaping how oral care is delivered
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Strengthening clinical practice through interprofessional collaboration
Health Promotion & Patient Education
Strengthen your role in early prevention, education, and health promotion with sessions on:
- HPV cancer prevention and vaccination recommendations
- Tobacco cessation strategies to support behaviour change
- Infection prevention and control
Mental Health, Resilience & Career Longevity
Support your personal and professional well-being with sessions focused on mental health, resilience, and sustainable careers in dental hygiene:
- Manage stress and approach patient care with renewed agency
- Reconnect with joy, purpose and longevity in your career
- Thrive amid mistreatment, stress, and change
*Subject to change
What’s New in 2026?
Closing Keynote Plenary
This year, we’re ending the conference with a powerful keynote
session you won’t want to miss. This energetic finale will motivate,
inspire, and leave you with fresh perspectives to elevate your
clinical practice! Join us for “Mental Skills Training” with TedX
speaker Bryan Fader.
Exhibit Hall: Extended Hours!
We heard you loud and clear! Inspired by your voice, the exhibit
hall is now open on Friday, November 13, and Saturday, November 14,
giving you more time to get hands-on with the latest products,
technologies, and equipment from leading dental industry partners.
More Education-Focussed Sessions
Although the peer-reviewed scientific program was a valuable part of
previous conferences, this year we have decided to incorporate more
traditional education-focussed sessions, providing you with more of
the learning opportunities you have come to enjoy featuring renowned
subject matter experts!
Lunch & Learning Labs
Enjoy your lunch, network with your peers, and learn about the
topics that matter most to you! This informal learning and
networking opportunity will encourage you to learn with and from
each other.
Live! CJDH Between The Lines Video Podcast
Join us live and in person for our video podcast featuring Salme
Lavigne, scientific editor of the Canadian Journal of Dental Hygiene
(CJDH), in conversation with an author of a recently published CJDH
article with important implications for dental hygiene practice.
This is your chance to watch the podcast in real time, ask
questions, and connect directly with thought leaders shaping the
future of dental hygiene.
Relaxation Station
Join us at the welcome reception on the tradeshow floor on Friday
evening, November 13, for a moment of relaxation and a 10-minute
massage!
Special Events & Featured Sessions
Preconference Workshop
Join your colleagues for an engaging, hands-on learning and networking
event on Thursday, November 12. This full-day workshop takes place at
Dalhousie University and includes a light breakfast and lunch.
Opening Keynote Plenary
Kick off your conference journey with an inspiring keynote presentation
on Friday, November 13! This all-attendee session will leave you feeling
inspired, recognized, and rejuvenated. Join us for “The Joy of the
Career!” with motivational speaker and comedian Jody Urquhart.
Product Showcase: 10 for 10!
This session sells out every year, so we’ve increased the room capacity!
Want to learn more about cutting-edge dental hygiene products and
technologies? Then this interactive, fast-paced learning experience is
for you!
Independent Practice Networking Breakfast
Do you own or are you interested in owning a dental hygiene practice?
Join current and future independent dental hygienists to discuss issues
and opportunities relevant to dental hygiene entrepreneurs.
Welcome Reception & Tradeshow
Network with colleagues and industry partners over refreshments and hors
d'oeuvres on Friday evening, November 13, and while you’re there, stop
by the relaxation station for a 10-minute massage!
Exhibit Hall Giveaways
Be one of the first 100 attendees through the door at the start of lunch
on Friday, November 13, or Saturday, November 14, and receive a special
exhibit hall opening giveaway!
Note: Check back often! Conference topics, speakers, and sponsors are
subject to change, and new elements will be announced as they become
available.
What Members had to say about our last conference:
“I highly recommend these conferences... if you ever feel that you
need to be re-charged in your profession... this is exactly what you
need! Connecting with old friends, making new ones, gathering
information and ideas.... yes, and being silly at times too! Just
block out the time in your appointment book and COME!!!!”
“The perfect mix of fun events and incredible learning opportunities.
I loved meeting hygienists from all over the country and collaborating
with those from all different dental hygiene backgrounds. Can’t wait
for the next one!”
“Absolutely awesome! Fantastic speakers, beautiful location, great
company! I wish conference was every year as I don't want to wait 2
years to do this all again!! Proud to be a CDHA RDH ❤️”