2020 ALSC Symposium • Feburary 28, 29 and March 1, 2020 • Fort Lauderdale, FL
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Multi-Disciplinary Approach to TOTs Session Pediatric Laser Frenectomies and Beyond Session Veterinary Laser Medicine Session
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Session Speakers and Presentations
Ordered by Presentation Date and Time
Richard Baxter, DMD, MS
Keynote Friday, 8:00 am – 9:00 am
Helping Pediatric Patients Thrive: Improved Feeding, Speaking, and Breathing After Tongue-Tie Release
Abstract
It seems everywhere you turn, parents and professionals are discussing and concerned about tongue and lip-ties. With so many opinions, objections, and success stories, it’s hard to cut through the noise. This evidence-based and clinically informed presentation will provide clarity to the real issues a restricted tongue can cause in pediatric patients. The dentist is well-positioned to screen for, diagnose and treat, or refer these patients with a team-based approach to manage this very common condition. The latest results from our prospective cohort study of children treated for tongue-tie will also be presented. Case studies of various ages, diagnostic criteria, assessment techniques, and treatment recommendations will be discussed in this comprehensive yet concise lecture.
Biographical Highlights
Dr. Richard Baxter is a board-certified pediatric dentist and Diplomate of the American Board of Laser Surgery. He is a nationally recognized speaker on tongue-ties and lead author of the bestselling book Tongue-Tied: How a Tiny String Under the Tongue Impacts Nursing, Speech, Feeding, and More. He is passionate about educating parents and healthcare practitioners about the effects a tongue-tie can have throughout the lifespan. He lives in Birmingham, AL with his wife, Tara, their five-year-old twin girls, Hannah and Noelle, and infant Molly. He is the founder and owner of the Alabama Tongue-Tie Center where he uses the CO2 laser to release oral restrictions that are causing nursing, speech, dental, sleep and feeding issues. He had a tongue-tie himself, and all three of his girls were treated for tongue and lip-tie at birth, so for him, this field is a personal one. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his family and outdoor activities. He serves as an elder at his church and is on the board of Reach the Rest, a global missions organization. Dr. Baxter also participates in many overseas dental mission trips. He is currently working on several research and educational projects related to tongue-ties.
Autumn Henning, MS, CCC-SLP, COM®, IBCLC
Keynote Friday, 9:05 am – 10:05 am
Interdisciplinary Teams Helping Families Breathe and Thrive
Abstract
Airway Related Disorders are prevalent and affect numerous areas of health. Professionals in a variety of fields need to be aware and collaborate in the identification and treatment of these issues. Navigating personalities and politics prove difficult when building a collaborative team for these complex disorders. However, it is imperative to have a collaborative team for these multi-faceted disorders.
Biographical Highlights
Autumn R. Henning, MS, CCC-SLP, COM®, IBCLC is a certified and licensed Speech-Language Pathologist with a Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA). She is a Certified Orofacial Myologist® through the International Association of Orofacial Myology (IAOM). She is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. She graduated from the University of Kentucky with a Master’s Degree in Communication Disorders. Autumn R. Henning, MS, CCC-SLP, COM®, IBCLC is currently appointed and in good standing as an Assistant Professor within the voluntary faculty series in the Department of Communication Sciences & Disorders at the University of Kentucky College of Health Sciences. She was a Founding Board Member for the International Consortium for Oral Ankylofrenula Professionals (ICAP). Autumn is a member of the American Academy of Private Practice in Speech Pathology and Audiology (AAPPSPA).
Autumn has completed specialty continuing education including Beckman Oral Motor, Vital Stim, TummyTime! Method, Understanding the Orofacial Complex, and Foundations in Myofascial Release for Neck, Voice, and Swallowing. She has experience working in the school system, early intervention, an ABA center and outpatient clinics including a nationally award-winning intensive feeding program. Autumn specializes in orofacial function and development throughout the lifespan. She serves pediatric patients through Advanced Institute for Development and Learning (AID-L). Autumn is the Founder of Chrysalis Orofacial, which functions to serve adult patients and provide continuing education to colleagues globally.
Autumn is married to Dr. Zach Henning and they have one daughter. They reside in Greenville (Greer), South Carolina with their beloved cats. Her hobbies include travel, reading, church, and any activity with family!
German Ramirez-Yañez, DDS, Pedo. Cert., MDSC, PhD, FRCD
Keynote Friday, 10:20 am – 11:20 am
Helping Orthodontic Patients to Breathe and Thrive
Abstract
In this conference, Dr. Ramirez-Yañez presents insights into craniofacial growth and development and the current scientific basis for preventing, intercepting and treating malocclusions at an early age, and so, preventing and intercepting more complicated problems as breathing and oral functional disorders in children. The importance of function in the cranio-cervico-mandibular system and its correlation with epigenetics is remarked. Evidence-based treatments and the modus operandi of functional treatments to treat malocclusions and breathing disorders during the primary and early mixed dentitions, such as the Planas’ Direct Tracks and Myofunctional Orthodontics, will be discussed.
Biographical Highlights
Dr. Ramirez graduated in 1986, obtaining his DDS degree from Javeriana University in Colombia. Afterward, he completed a Pediatric Dentistry Diploma in Mexico. Dr. Ramirez’s interest includes guiding craniofacial growth and development in children. Thus, he trained in Orthodontics in Brazil, as well as completed a Master of Dental Sciences and Doctoral degree (PhD) in Oral Biology in Australia. He also holds a Master’s degree focusing on Craniofacial Pain and Sleep Apnea from Tufts University in Boston, USA.
Besides his extensive experience treating children, Dr. Ramirez has been an academic in the USA and Canada. He became a fellow of the Royal College of Dentist of Canada in 2012 and has his own practice in Aurora, Ontario. He is a fellow of the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario and the Royal College of Dentists of Canada, as well as a member of the Ontario Dental Association and the American and Canadian Academies of Paediatric Dentistry.
Dr. Ramirez is the author of the book “Early Treatment of Malocclusions: Prevention and Interception in Primary Dentition”, as well as co-author of the book “The Myobrace System: A myofunctional approach to treat malocclusions”. He investigates on Craniofacial Growth and Development, the Patho-Physiology of Functional Disorders in the Cranio-Cervico-Mandibular system and how the craniofacial structures are modified by functional appliances.
Dr. Ramirez advocates preventing before treating.
William E. Schultz, DVM
Keynote Friday, 11:25 am – 12:25 pm
BOAS, Airways Disorders, and Laser Surgeries to Help Companion Animals Breathe & Thrive
Abstract
The huge rise in popularity of the brachycephalic breeds has increased the practitioner’s awareness of the need to keep a functional airway in the affected pets and show dogs. Pinched or stenotic nares are visible and many times this is the only part of the airway problem that is repaired, when, in fact, the patient possibly needs a tonsillectomy, soft palate resection, and removal of laryngeal saccules.
The narrowing of the nose and the short muzzle with an elongated soft palate may compound the problem and lead to tonsil inflammation and eversion of the laryngeal saccules. Before laser surgery, these surgeries were very technical and had many possible complications due to surgical and post-surgical hemorrhage, often with severe outcomes.
Laser surgery gives the practitioner the ability to do these surgeries in a nearly bloodless field. This visualization of the surgery dramatically changes the stress level of the surgeon. The pet heals much better and with less post-operative edema.
This lecture will show the laser tips and spot size used with the proper laser settings for the least traumatic incisions. The use of a surgical laser increases the comfort level of the surgeon giving a much better outcome for the patient. Surgical pictures and videos will give the attendee the knowledge and technique for successful laser correction of Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) related issues.
Biographical Highlights
Dr. William E. Schultz graduated from Michigan State University in 1973, went into private practice and opened his companion animal practice in the fall of 1974. Dr. Schultz has been a board member on the Synbiotics Reproductive Advisory Panel, The Society for Theriogenology and The Theriogenology Foundation with speaking engagements at veterinary conferences, veterinary associations and national specialties because of a special interest in canine reproduction with transcervical and surgical inseminations using fresh, chilled and frozen semen. Dr. Schultz was given the Dr. John Steiner Practice of Excellence Award by the Society of Theriogenology in 2014. Dr. Schultz also has a special interest laser surgery having spoken at veterinary conferences and has published many related articles. Dr. Schultz has over 20 years of soft tissue laser experience using flexible fiber CO2 lasers and focused beam hand pieces.
Stacy V. Cole, DDS
Friday, 1:15 pm – 2:00 pm
Acupuncture, Structure, Women’s Health, Airway, Dentistry, and Lasers
Abstract
In dentistry we cannot treat TMJ Disorders, Airway and Breathing Disorders, Tongue Ties or Restore Teeth without affecting other parts of the body. Likewise, other parts of the body and other maladies can affect the results of our dentally related treatment. Every tooth is on an acupuncture meridian. The body is a held together structurally head to toe with fascia. Acupuncture meridians trail through the fascia. Airway affects structure and metabolism. An unhealthy tooth or jaw joint is a dental component that can affect “flow” through acupuncture meridians, and simultaneously be a source of microbial infection, structural irritation or exacerbate other health problems, women’s health issues in particular. We must consider the entire body and all physiologic mechanisms that may be influencing our diagnoses and which may be affected by or which may limit the results of our treatment.
Biographical Highlights
Stacy Cole has practiced General Dentistry for 42 years in Fort Worth, Texas. Early in his career he studied occlusion, TMD, structure, anatomy and unusual pain syndromes. His practice gravitated toward using materials and techniques as biocompatible with each patient as possible. As treatment of Sleep and Breathing Disorders became a part of his practice the introduction of treating infants, children and adults with restricted frenula provided a new platform of study regarding the structural impact of anatomical anomalies that influence development of the airway, swallowing, speech and facial development. He has performed well over 7,000 frenotomy procedures using a laser.
Professionally, Dr. Cole is a member of the American Dental Association, Texas Dental Association and the Fort Worth District Dental Society. He is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, a Fellow of the American Academy of Craniofacial Pain, a Diplomate of the American Academy of Pain Management, a Diplomate of the American Board of Craniofacial Dental Sleep Medicine, is Board Certified as a Naturopathic Physician, has been a Licensed Massage Therapist and has studied craniosacral therapy and structure for over 30 years. He has over 4,000 hours of continuing education and continues to learn, teach, write articles and pursue innovative ways to address difficult cases with minimal discomfort, natural remedies and optimal esthetics.
Martin A. Kaplan, DMD
Friday, 1:15 pm – 2:00 pm
Health Impact of Frenum Surgery through the Ages
Abstract
This presentation will expand upon the obvious concerns of infant frenum on the breast and bottle feeding dyad. There will be multiple cases of patients through a range of ages demonstrating the medical benefits to the health of the patient. Cases of swallowing, speech, posture, sleep apnea, reflux, and vision changes will be presented of patients from newborns through seniors.
There will be an emphasis on structural changes on the body that are sustained after proper diagnosis and history review to justify the treatment and follow up with the community of TEAM members in the entire health profession.
Biographical Highlights
Martin A. Kaplan, D.M.D. has practiced Pediatric Dentistry in Massachusetts for 41 years. He had been a volunteer part-time adjunct clinical instructor in the Pediatric Post-graduate Department at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in Boston from 2006-2017. He was the first dentist in the country to perform infant frenum laser procedures with LightScalpel in 2013.
He has lectured nationally and internationally and has co-authored several dental articles and has been a contributing author in several dental texts including the first-ever “Laser Surgery Atlas for the Treatment of Infant Tongue- & Lip-Ties.” Dr. Kaplan was instrumental in developing the first in the country comprehensive Infant Laser Frenotomy class which has been co-presented with other specialists in the laser and lactation professions at Tufts University Dental/Medical Center in Boston. These classes are now offered throughout the USA at various universities and continuing education training centers. Last year (2018) he was the only USA based dentist to be invited to participate in an international tongue-tie panel organized by the USLCA (Unites States Lactation Consultant Association).
In January of 2018, he became associated with Dentistry by Dr. David in Bolton, MA where he continues to accept and treat newborns. Additionally, this practice is allowing Dr. Kaplan to bring Laser Frenum Surgery to an extended need population where tongue- and lip-ties do impact speech, sleep-disordered breathing, adult sleep apnea, migraine, and TMJ related issues where these restrictions have affected oral motor function. In his limited spare time, he practices Kenpo Karate Martial Arts in Norwood MA with his instructor Craig Lowe (an 8th Degree black belt & Advanced Jeet Kune Do instructor) and has attained the level of 5th Degree black belt. In his remaining free-time he is becoming a Ball Room Dancer at Arthur Murray Studios in Boston.
John C. Godbold, Jr., DVM
Friday, 1:15 pm – 2:00 pm
Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome in Veterinary Patients & The CO2 Laser Paradigm Shift
Abstract
The management of brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome has been transformed in veterinary patients with the use of the CO2 laser.
Prior to CO2 lasers becoming a common tool in the hands of general veterinary practitioners, BOAS surgery was primarily performed by boarded surgeons on a referral basis. With the development of protocols and techniques using the CO2 laser, general practitioners began performing BOAS surgery, resulting in a more widespread and better understanding of the pathology and pathogenesis of the condition. Early intervention became accepted and allowed a radical improvement in patients’ quality of life.
This presentation will discuss current understanding of the pathology and pathogenesis BOAS in veterinary patients based on a review of current publications, as well as detailing the paradigm shift to early interventions that CO2 lasers have allowed.
Biographical Highlights
Dr. Godbold graduated with honors from Auburn University School of Veterinary Medicine in 1978. In 1980, he established Stonehaven Park Veterinary Hospital in Jackson, Tennessee where he practiced full time as a solo small animal practitioner for 33 years. Dr. Godbold currently works full time with Stonehaven Veterinary Consulting, teaching and assisting colleagues and working in the development of new technologies.
Since 1999, Dr. Godbold has pursued a special interest in the use of light‐based modalities in small animal practice. He has extensive experience with surgical and therapeutic lasers, has developed new surgical and therapeutic techniques, and assists equipment manufacturers with the development of new laser and light‐based technologies. In 2016 Dr. Godbold expanded his interest to include digital thermal imaging and has worked in the development and delivery of education about thermal imaging and its application in veterinary practice.
Dr. Godbold has published numerous papers, articles, and chapters about the use of lasers in small animal practice. His publications have appeared in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, Clinician’s Brief, Laserpoints, The Feline Patient, Laser surgery in Veterinary Medicine, Today’s Veterinary Practice, The Integrative Veterinary Care Journal and the Newsletter of the Veterinary Surgical Laser Society.
Dr. Godbold is a member of the Medical Advisory Board of the American Institute of Medical Laser Applications, the Companion Animal Health Veterinary Advisory Board, the Digatherm Veterinary Medical Advisory Board, the American Society for Laser Medicine & Surgery, and the American Academy of Thermology.
Dr. Godbold published the internationally distributed Atlas of CO2 Laser Surgery Procedures in 2002, with a new edition each year since. In 2009, Dr. Godbold published the Atlas of Class IV Laser Therapy – Small Animal, also updated with a new edition each year. He is a co‐editor and a chapter contributor to the 2017 textbook Laser Therapy in Veterinary Medicine ‐ Photobiomodulation, published by Wiley‐Blackwell.
In 2019, Dr. Godbold received the Kumar Patel Prize for Laser Surgery for his contributions to veterinary laser surgery education.
In high demand as a continuing education speaker, Dr. Godbold has led over 650 laser workshops, wet‐labs, and continuing education meetings throughout North America and in over 25 countries around the world.
Paula Fabbie, RDH, BS, COM®; and
Leonard Kundel, DMD
Friday, 2:00 pm – 2:45 pm
Something Old, Something New – How to implement effective dental procedures to improve airway health and oral function
Abstract
Underlying soft tissue dysfunction, including habits, issues during chewing, less than ideal oral phase of swallow and lack of nasal breathing have disrupted the best intentions of dentists for decades.
Today’s patients present with multiple oral health issues that require a unique approach. Utilizing tried and true principles of orofacial myofunctional therapy, a functional approach to revising freni, protraction orthodontics, along with optimal airway/sleep medical treatments, patients are experiencing improved oral and overall health. Evidenced-based information supports many of the treatment modalities presented today.
Biographical Highlights - Paula Fabbie, RDH, BS, COM®
Paula Fabbie, RDH, BS, COM®, consults, lectures and has written articles on Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders for dentists, physicians, SLP’s and other healthcare professionals. She operates “Paula Fabbie LLC” and is IAOM Board-certified orofacial mycologist. Paula offers a unique perspective on time-proven oral rest posture principles combine with evidenced-based science to assist her patients in achieving myofunctional goals and functional breathing.
Biographical Highlights - Leonard Kundel, DMD
Leonard Kundel, DMD is a 1999 graduate of Tufts Dental School. He is a member of the American Academy of Craniofacial Pain, International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology, American Academy of Physiological Medicine and Dentistry, and Academy of Sleep Disorder Disciplines. Dr. Kundel’s practice has always been focused on treating his patients as a complete system. He collaborates with medical professionals from various disciplines to bring about the best result possible.
Lisa Lahey, RN, IBCLC, OMT, CSOM
Friday, 2:00 pm – 2:45 pm
Babies and Breathing; the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly.
Abstract
In keeping with this year’s ALSC theme of Breathe and Thrive, this presentation will help practitioners learn more about the baby’s breathing patterns, how feeding can be affected and differential diagnosis of dysfunctional breathing patterns and conditions. A review of infant suck and oral anatomy and physiology helps to realize that breastfeeding develops an optimal airway and interplay with the respiratory system because of suck, swallow breathe sequencing.
The presenter will discuss assessing dysfunctional breathing patterns, therapeutic interventions, such as, cervical auscultation, alternate nasal breathing, and facilitating feeding techniques to help babies breathe and feed better. The presentation closes with clinical care guidelines to help practitioners refer to early airway intervention and team collaboration so that breathe and thrive is realized for our youngest patients.
Biographical Highlights
Lisa Lahey RN, IBCLC, CSOM has worked for 24 years in maternal-child health as a nurse and lactation consultant in L/D, postpartum, newborn nursery, NICU, and perinatal education.
An IBCLC for 20 years, Lisa has a special interest in tethered oral tissues and oral dysfunction. Lisa has taken many additional trainings beyond her nursing degree to serve her patients and currently is working towards her Masters of Science as a Family Nurse Practitioner. Lisa’s private practice “Advanced Breastfeeding Care” provides care for complex feeding issues for breastfed babies. Lisa also provides myofunctional assessment and therapy to babies, children, and adults in a functional orthodontic office in Indianapolis.
Lisa’s strengths are her assessment skills, teaching oral exercises, offering holistic therapies, and taking clinical photos used to teach parents and professionals when during classes and lectures. She is a contributing co-author of the book Tongue Tied. Lisa is involved with many professional groups and enjoys traveling to National Parks to unplug and enjoy nature with her family and five children.
Jakub Kaczmarek, DVM, ECVS Resident
Friday, 2:00 pm – 2:45 pm
Brachycephalic Syndrome: The Inconvenient Truths
Abstract
The popularity of brachycephalic dog breeds is increasing despite well-documented relevant health problems associated with their body and skeletal conformation. Ownership of brachycephalic dog breeds is a kind of a phenomenon. It is characterized by a very strong dog-owner bond and paradoxal perceptions of good health set against the multiple of disease which this breed poses. It is interesting that the owners of brachycephalic dogs have been demonstrated to be less influenced by breed health in breed selection compared with mesaticephalic dog owners. Furthermore, brachycephalic breeds are reported with significantly shorter lifespans (median 8.6 years) than moderate and non-brachycephalic dogs (median 12.7 years). In addition, despising the awareness of the brachycephalic dogs’ health issues, almost 71% of owners considered their dog to be in very good health — subjectively.
Brachycephalic breeds are strongly predisposed to a range of disorders that are closely related to their body type, including respiratory disease, gastroesophageal diseases, eye and ear disease, dystocia or spinal disease. Upper airway disorders (Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome – BS) dominate the broad spectrum of problems in these breeds.
Biographical Highlights
Jakub Lukasz Kaczmarek, DVM, ECVS Resident. After graduating the veterinary studies in Wroclaw (Poland) in 2013, he began a two-year surgical internship at the referral clinic in Birkenfeld, Germany. He is currently a resident of the European College of Veterinary Surgeons at a reference clinic in Augsburg / Germany.
Dawn Moore, ClinScD., CCC-SLP, COM®
Friday, 2:45 pm – 3:30 pm
The Tongue Matters: Orofacial Myology and Speech-Language Pathology
Abstract
Participants will be given an overview of Orofacial Myology, a specialty within the field of Speech-Language Pathology. Orofacial Myologists treat Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs) which focus on nasal breathing and appropriate resting postures of the tongue, lips, and jaw. Airway problems, sucking habits, tongue/lip ties, and the familiar “tongue thrust” disrupt natural resting postures. These disruptions are detrimental to facial and dental development which may cause problems with the articulation of speech sounds. Participants will learn about the detailed case history obtained during a myofunctional evaluation and how OMDs can impact speech, feeding, chewing, swallowing, and breathing through interactive audience participation.
Biographical Highlights
Dr. Dawn Moore, SLP and Certified Orofacial Myologist (COM) ®, is the founder of Expressions Speech, Language, & Myofunctional Center in NC.
With over 20 years of clinical experience, she became interested in orofacial myology while trying to get help for her daughters’ tongue thrust. For the last six years, she has developed a network of like-minded professionals to help clients of all ages to improve orofacial health and development.
Shelly F. Klein, MD, DABLS, CSOM
Friday, 2:45 pm – 3:30 pm
The effect of tethered oral tissue on intra-oral pressure in infants and changes noted with release
Abstract
To present an objective measure of the effect of tethered oral tissue, a pressure device is used to measure intraoral pressure before and after tethered oral tissue release. This method demonstrates the significant change in intraoral pressure and the subsequent effect on breastfeeding.
Biographical Highlights
Dr. Shelly Klein is a board certified pediatrician who has been practicing for over twenty years. Dr. Klein is the owner of a general pediatric practice, Cornerstone Pediatrics, in Prescott Valley, Arizona, and also serves as a hospital provider in her local hospital nursery. She has always been a proponent of breastfeeding and corrected lip and tongue ties with scissors for many years in her outpatient practice. When she discovered CO2 laser treatments for tethered oral tissues, she was thrilled to be able to offer a more complete solution to her patients and their families. Dr. Klein became a member of the ALSC in 2018 and certified in laser surgery that same year. She also became a certified oral myofacial therapist in 2018. Dr. Klein provides her patients and their families with a totally inclusive experience, offering oral myofacial therapy, laser frenulectomies, cranio-facial therapy, and lactation services, all in her rural clinic.
Ziemowit Kudła, DVM; and
Anna Nikolajdu-Kudła, DVM
Friday, 2:45 pm – 3:30 pm
Breathing with Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS)
Abstract
What can we change so animals with BOAS Syndrome can live longer in better comfort? What we don’t see, looking at the suffocating dog or cat. How we do the diagnosis. Do we remember all the elements that cause breathing disorders? What can we treat pharmacologically and what should be treated surgically using a CO2 laser. Movies and photos of our clinical cases, starting from a suffocating dog to CO2 laser treatments.
Biographical Highlights - Ziemowit Kudła, DVM
Dr. Ziemowit Kudła was born in Bielsko-Biała, Poland in 1974. He graduated from the Veterinary Technical School in Nowy Targ, after which he began studies at the Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine. In 2004, after finishing his studies, he opened his own veterinary practice in his hometown of Bielsko-Biała, which he runs to this day with his wife Anna.
Dr. Kudła is the father of three sons. He has two European cats, two German dogs, and two Gipsy Cob mares, who he rides, Western-style, with his wife.
In 2012, looking for new solutions in veterinary medicine, after meeting with John Godbold, DVM, he bought the Aesculight, the first CO2 laser in Poland. Since then, he has entered a new era of bloodless surgery. He has adapted all surgical procedures in his practice to laser surgery.
Dr. Kudła authored several publications in the national press on the use of the Aesculight CO2 laser in veterinary practice. He lectured at the workshops on the use of CO2 laser in surgery, as well as on other veterinary fields in Poland. Dr. Kudła participated in many conferences, workshops and courses. He taught first aid pre-veterinary courses and courses for dog carers. Dr. Kudła participated in radio and television programs devoted to animal health. In 2018 he graduated from the Veterinary Anesthesiology School under the supervision of Peter Kronen, Dipl. ECVA, and received the VAT-Veterinary Anesthesiology Technique certification.
Biographical Highlights - Anna Nikolajdu-Kudła, DVM
Dr. Nikolajdu- Kudła studied at the Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine. After graduating in 2004, Dr. Nikolajdu-Kudła and her husband opened their own veterinary practice in BielskoBiała, Poland, which they continue to this day. Nikolajdu-Kudła works mainly in the fields of anesthesiology, hematology, and dermatology of dogs and cats. She is the author of several publications in the national press on hematology. She has participated in many conferences, workshops, and courses as a speaker and participant, and lectured on the use of CO2 laser in veterinary surgery and on veterinary hematology in Poland. She runs first-aid veterinary courses and courses for dog owners. In 2018, she graduated from the Veterinary School of Anaesthesiology under the direction of Peter Kronen, Dipl. ECVA.
Diana Batoon, DMD
Friday, 3:45 pm – 4:30 pm
Airway, Breathing & Sleep: A collaborative Approach with Laser Dentistry
Abstract
Every year more and more people are suffering from undiagnosed sleep apnea, sleep fragmentation and poor sleep hygiene. Not only does the role of a health care provider remain significant, but identifying and evaluating for sleep-related breathing disorders is important.
The growing population of children who suffer from possible ADD, ADHD symptoms are staggering and with a more conservative approach by surgeons, many of these children go untreated longer than they need to. In addition, many consumers are unaware that sleep apnea or upper airway resistance syndrome (UARS) can cause serious medical conditions. A collaborative approach by the dental and medical community will help treat the population of sleep apnea patients more quickly and bring resolution sooner. The time is now and action should start with health care providers who are aware of the silent epidemic.
Biographical Highlights
Dr. Diana Batoon has maintained a private practice in Scottsdale, AZ for over 23 years where she divides her time between doing general dentistry and Dental Sleep Medicine/TMJ/Interceptive Orthodontics. Her focus is on helping her adult and pediatric patient population to achieve quality sleep patterns that directly affect their overall well-being. By incorporating laser dentistry in her practice, she collaborates with a variety of medical and dental professionals to provide the best treatment. Her belief is that sleep fragmentation or poor sleep hygiene can affect crania-facial growth and development.
The conditions of malocclusion, oral-habits, and genetics contribute to a myriad of signs and symptoms that affect overall health. She currently is working on research to prove that tethered oral tissues and improper growth patterns of the face can negatively affect an airway, breathing patterns and sleep. She lectures all over the US and internationally to build this awareness with her dental and medical colleagues.
Shervin Yazdi, DDS, DABLS
Friday, 3:45 pm – 4:30 pm
Top 20 Post Frenectomy Concerns, post-surgical issues of infant frenectomy: parental concerns & active wound care mistakes.
Abstract
Infant Frenectomy procedure in and of itself is measured by seconds; however, the functional troubles of the patient/parent and the experience of the practitioner help determine the proper diagnosis, proper treatment, and proper outcome possibilities; skills that take longer to establish. Furthermore, quite often the back end concerns of this procedure may not be discussed as often as the front end.
This author would like to shed more light on the parental and wound management side of this surgical procedure. Supporting post-procedure parental concerns along with troubleshooting in advance common wound care mistakes is the aim of this presentation. Top 10 Parental Concerns & Top 10 Active Wound Care mistakes of Infant Frenectomy are brought to light and practical solutions are suggested.
Biographical Highlights
Shervin Yazdi was born in Manhattan, New York and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area, California. He completed his undergraduate study of Biology at Sonoma State University in 1990, a Doctor of Dental Surgery at UCLA in 1994, and a Pediatric Dentistry residency at UCLA in 1996. He has been practicing pediatric dentistry for the past 24 years in Northern California.
Dr. Yazdi has kept his passion alive for soft tissue surgery due to the clear functional benefits it provides his patients. He attends national and international conferences learning from other providers the essentials of functional effectiveness and safety your family deserves. He was certified by the Academy of Laser Dentistry in 2002, Laser Soft Tissue re-certified in 2013, Fellow of the World Clinical Laser & Imaging Institute in 2014, and a Diplomate of the American Board of Laser Surgery in 2018.
Dr. Yazdi has performed over 10,000 frenectomies in the past 20 years using a variety of lasers and laser wavelengths. With decades of unwavering passion for relieving oral restrictions Dr. Yazdi has limited his thriving practice to the sub-specialty of infant frenectomy; he practices out of the Infant Frenectomy Center he built from scratch in 2016; he finds no greater joy than to relieve the many ailments afflicting a baby.
Dr. Yazdi sincerely believes “success” depends on a community of open-minded health care professionals who are humble with their talent but generous with their knowledge.
Miguel Carreira, PhD, MSc, DTO, Pst-Grd, DMD, DVM, CMVAA
Friday, 3:45 pm – 4:30 pm
CO2 laser surgery in the management of nasal mucosa infiltrative carcinoma in dogs – Three clinical cases
Abstract
In the dog, nasal tumors represent 1-2% of all the oncological diseases. About 80% are malignancy and their biological behavior is characterized by a rapid and progressive local tissue invasion. According to the studies they present a low metastatic rate and the carcinomas are the most common type of tumor representing about 60-78%. The restrictive anatomy of the region, its proximity to faint tissues and the high vascular network are related to a higher risk of bleeding, making the complete surgical resection of these tumors very difficult to achieve using the common and conventional blade scalpel surgery.
Biographical Highlights
L. Miguel Carreira holds the degrees of Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM); Doctor of Human Medicine in Dentistry (DMD); Diploma in Orthopedics and Trauma in Small Animals (DTO); postgraduate international trainings (Pst-Grd) in several veterinary and human medicine and surgery fields; Master of Science (MSc); and Doctorate (PhD) in Veterinary Sciences (branch of Clinic – specialty of Surgery with his studies in Brain Neurosurgery and Neuronavigation in the Dog). Currently, he is an Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine – University of Lisbon, teaching Surgery I and II (small animals). He is the Clinical Director of a private Centre of Veterinary Medicine – Anjos of Assis Veterinary Medicine Centre (CMVAA) in Barreiro, Portugal. He has authored several scientific papers published in international index journals, and belongs to the editorial boards of numerous human and veterinary international journals. Dr. Carreira’s scientific interests in veterinary medicine focus on neurosurgery (brain and medulla), orthopedics and trauma, plastic surgery, CO2 laser surgery, anesthesia, pain and transplantation. His interests in the area of human dentistry focus on surgery, implants, and cosmetic dentistry.
Craig Lustman, DDS
Friday, 4:30 pm – 5:15 pm
Using Your Profession as a Vehicle For Your Passion
Abstract
Birth through Braces and Beyond. Considerations and differences in approach to releasing that pesky string at different growth stages.
Continuing with an insight into our unique brand (Kids United) built around caring for growing children!
Healthy habits have a way of paying themselves forward. It’s our firm belief. It’s what we’re built on. And It’s how we’ve made a mission out of expert pediatric dentistry through our foundation ‘Play It Forward.’
Biographical Highlights
Dr. Craig Lustman is a board-certified specialist in Pediatric Dentistry with a private practice in South Florida. He considers his role as a health care clinician for children to be a genuine privilege and believes that a customized oral health plan for each child is essential to the child’s overall well-being.
Having trained at the prestigious Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, and subsequently served on the faculty at New York University, Dr. Lustman brings a uniquely skilled methodology to his patients. He has extensive experience in the areas of growth and development, tongue ties, pediatric oral pathology, special health care needs, dental trauma, pharmacological modalities, and behavior modification. Dr. Lustman enjoys lecturing and researching in these areas of practice and has been published in scientific journals. His health care philosophy is collaborative, and so believes that working with other pediatric clinicians under an interdisciplinary approach is integral to the successful management of each patient.
Dr. Lustman was born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland, where as a college student he founded the Fighting Davids, a basketball and motivational workshop for children from diverse backgrounds. He then went on to a teaching fellowship, serving as an Academic Coach in a Brooklyn, New York High School sponsored by the National Football Foundation. Also before dentistry, he served as an International Ambassador in the field of Sports for promoting social change. His passion allowed him to live and travel across Africa, Europe, and Israel consulting for youth sports and leadership programs. Dr. Lustman’s diverse and meaningful experiences have contributed to his success at building trusting relationships with his patients and their families and ultimately developing an exciting brand of pediatric dentistry (Kids United™) with a unique mission to Play It Forward™.
Milton Geivelis, DDS, MS
Friday, 4:30 pm – 5:15 pm
TOTs in Infants, Children and Adults
Abstract
Tethered Oral Tissues and their effects on infants, children, and adults Diagnosis and classification When to treat and why Where does the release of TOTs fit in the total patient treatment plan?
Pre-operative preparation and post-operative care The use of CO2 Laser to treat TOTs Lingual Functional Frenuloplasty Collaborating with other health professionals before, during, and after the procedure for best treatment outcomes.
Biographical Highlights
Dr. Geivelis is a periodontal specialist, whose practice is limited to Periodontics and Dental Implants. Dr. Geivelis is on staff at Central DuPage Hospital in Winfield, IL (Northwestern Medicine) Born in Athens, Greece; Dr. Geivelis received his dental and graduate training from Northwestern University. He has a Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree, a Master of Science Degree, and a Specialty Degree in Periodontics.
Dr. Geivelis is a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology. From 1993 to 2001, Dr. Geivelis was professor and director of Graduate Periodontics at Northwestern University Dental School, training the residents in Periodontal Surgery and Dental Implants. He has been involved in academic research and has authored and co-authored several scientific articles. One of his main clinical interests is Bone Regeneration procedures and Computer Guided Surgery for the placement of Dental Implants. The other is Tethered Oral Tissues (TOTs) and their effects. Dr. Geivelis lectures on Periodontics, Implants, as well as TOTs nationally and internationally. He has been given several academic and clinical awards for his work as a scientist and a Periodontist.
In the last six years, Dr. Geivelis has dedicated a significant part of his time treating infants, children, and adults with tongue-ties and lip-ties. He collaborates with some of the most well-known and skilled clinicians in these procedures, Dr. Bobby Ghaheri, Dr. Larry Kotlow, Dr. Scott Siegel, Dr. Soroush Zaghi (Functional Frenuloplasty). In March,
2019 he completed a mini-residency in Lingual Functional Frenuloplasty (LFF) with Dr. Zaghi, in Los Angeles. He has performed 200+ LFF procedures.
Christopher J. Winkler DVM, VMLSO, Dip. ABLS
Friday, 4:30 pm – 5:15 pm
Palates, Polyps, and Pinnae (Oh My!): Improving the Quality of Life of Pets with Lasers
Abstract
Through breeding, chronic inflammation, infection, or other unknown etiologies, dogs and cats can experience tissue growths in their respiratory and ear passages which impede normal breathing and function. Such areas can be difficult to access and are known for profuse bleeding and their sensitivity to pain and post-operative discomfort, making both surgery and recovery difficult for the veterinarian, client, and patient. This presentation will demonstrate how surgical and therapy lasers may reduce or remove such impediments to the patient while aiding the surgeon by providing an unobstructed surgical field and reducing pain, thus improving the patient’s recovery, quality of life and well-being, and its relationship with its human companions.
Biographical Highlights
A graduate of Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Winkler currently owns and operates Suffolk Veterinary Group Animal Wellness and Laser Surgery Center on Long Island and introduced lasers in his practice in 2010. A faculty member of the American Laser Medicine College and Board, he is certified in Veterinary Laser Medicine and Surgery by the American Board of Laser Surgery, a certified Veterinary Medical Laser Safety Officer by the American Institute of Medical Laser Applications, and a member of the American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery. Dr. Winkler offers the benefits of laser surgery and laser therapy to his own patients and referrals he receives from other veterinarians locally and nationally, and also takes a special interest in laser education for veterinary students, colleagues, and licensed veterinary technicians. He has appeared nationally as a speaker and laser surgery instructor for conferences such as the New York Veterinary Conference, the WVC, the NAVC, the AVMA, and the ASLMS. Dr. Winkler contributes articles on laser surgery for Veterinary Practice News, acts as a consultant for laser surgery and laser therapy companies, and is editor and co-author of the textbook Laser Surgery in Veterinary Medicine (Wiley-Blackwell, 2019).
Sheila Busch, MSN, RN, OMT-C, FNP-C
Friday, 5:15 pm – 6:00 pm
Sleep Dysfunction and Tethered Oral Tissues – Beginning the Conversation
Abstract
In this discussion, we will be focusing on a few selected case studies in order to provide information about what happens in disruptive sleep, the effect that disrupted sleep has on patients’ lives, and what can be done to assist patients in getting the sleep they need. We will also be discussing about how to have an open discussion with patients about their sleep habits and how that relates to problems they are experiencing. We will discuss collaborative ways to address this sleep disruption in patients of all ages.
Biographical Highlights
Sheila Busch is a Family Nurse Practitioner with a family practice in Prescott, AZ. Sheila has been involved with laser frenulectomies, first as an assistant, and then as a provider. She has a special interest in releasing tethered oral tissues in older children and adults. She became aware of the sleep/TOT connection and has been striving to educate her patients and their families about the role that tethered oral tissues play in disruptive sleep practices, which in turn affect many aspects of their daily lives. Sheila uses a combination of traditional sleep clinics, at-home sleep apnea tests, TOT release, and OMT to assist her patients in finding the sleep they need.
Autumn Henning, MS, CCC-SLP, COM®, IBCLC; and
Ann Bynum, DDS
Friday, 5:15 pm – 6:00 pm
Plot the TOT: A Collaborative Map to Optimal Outcomes
Abstract
As healthcare providers wanting rapid results to help our patients, a synchronized team approach is the best way to achieve that. Helping patients often require multiple specialists to work together for the best outcomes. Our collaborative and methodical approach allows us to view the whole patient and implement comprehensive care. This approach provides more predictable results and outcomes while navigating the topography of TOTs in the healthcare community. Application and synthesis of knowledge come together in our real-life strategies for collaboration.
Biographical Highlights - Ann Bynum, DDS
Dr. Ann Bynum is originally from Ocala, Florida. She did her undergraduate training at Florida State University. She then attended dental school at the University of Iowa, where she met her husband, Dr. Matt Bynum. She did two further years of training in Pediatric Dentistry at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio, Texas.
Dr. Ann Bynum moved to Greenville, South Carolina in 1997 and opened her practice in Simpsonville. She has three children of her own (all boys!!) and understands and appreciates the arts of pediatric dentistry and parenting!
Although she had used lasers for much of her dental career, in 2013 she began her journey to learn about TOTs and how best to treat them. She has been helping families in the Upstate of South Carolina and surrounding areas for over 6 years with the help of a wonderfully supportive team of SLPs, IBCLCs, OTs, PTs, COMs, and DCs.
Dr. Bynum is a Diplomat of the ABPD, a member of the SSPD, the AAPD, and the ADA. She has lectured and written numerous articles on customer service, marketing, leadership and teamwork over the years.
She enjoys spending time with her husband and their three boys, Matthew, Luke, and John. She enjoys working ON her practice and traveling.
Noel A. Berger, DVM, MS, Dip. ABLS
Friday, 5:15 pm – 6:00 pm
Its’ neck and neck… and the CO2 laser wins!
Abstract
Many vital structures exist in the neck that needs to be identified, understood, and protected when surgery is indicated. Using a CO2 laser allows precision and careful control of soft tissue handling to perform procedures involving the thyroid gland, parathyroid gland, salivary glands, and larynx. Surgical anatomy will be discussed and selected procedures will be demonstrated to show the ease in which these procedures can be successfully performed in dogs and cats.
Biographical Highlights
Noel Berger DVM, MS, DABLS is a 1988 graduate of the New York State College of Veterinary Medicine and also earned an MS degree in Veterinary Clinical Sciences in 1989 from Cornell University. Following a residency in pathology, he entered private small animal veterinary practice and has been a clinician for over 31 years. He is certified by the American Board of Laser Surgery in veterinary surgery, physics and safety. He is first author of several peer-reviewed papers in veterinary laser surgery, laboratory diagnostics, and innovative therapies.
He has co-authored several book chapters and published a textbook of small animal laser surgery. Dr. Berger delights in teaching the safe techniques required to minimize post-surgical pain and inflammation using lasers and currently practices these techniques in a small animal hospital in Tampa Florida.
James Thomas, DDS, MS
Keynote Saturday, 8:00 am – 9:00 am
The health:latch story – how we broke through impossibility to create real and lasting change in others
Abstract
The continued problem with the acceptance of oral tethers is still looming for most of our talented colleagues across the globe. At health:latch we aimed high to end this divide.
We have flipped the conversation and have educated and cross-pollinated a positive transformational story-based message by first being RADICALLY KIND and FIERCELY PATIENCE. In 2020, I am excited to say that we are moving into our DISRUPTIVELY BRAVE and DEFIANTLY JOYFUL value propositions to become the changemaker we set out to be in 2017.
If someone was to ask health:latch, “what does health:latch bring to the table besides the clinical management of infant oral tethers” what would we say? health:latch would most likely say it was the “creation of an authentic branded communication system necessary to meet parents and healthcare professionals where they are along their journey with infant oral tethers.”
Love does win! Using conversational tools, health:latch has changed the conversation around oral tethers in Seattle and beyond. An amazing story of how we mixed meaningful technology and systems integration to gently execute our healthy branded experience and leverage raving fans. We understand that the health:latch brand is our mission and our mission is our brand.”
We would like to share with ALSC how health:latch will now become DISRUPTIVELY BRAVE to maintain and manage a positive and uplifting social conversation about oral tethers. A collective and positive voice to connect clients and professionals with meaningful education and community around the discussion and treatment of oral tethers. Both proceduralist and functionalist seen together as one collective voice for the first time.
This will be a visually moving and historical presentation unique for ALSC and its members. It will leave the audience questioning, “Who’s in their circle?”
Biographical Highlights
Dr. Thomas received his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) from The University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Michigan. He discovered his love for working with young patients while volunteering at a special needs camp in Bay Cliff, Michigan and decided to focus on preventing oral health problems in the youngest population. He completed his Masters in Pediatric Dentistry (MS) from The University of Michigan in 2005. After relocating to Seattle in 2006 with his family, Dr. Thomas practiced as an associate in Lakewood and Mt. Vernon before opening his own practice – Everyone By One – in Bellevue, and later a second practice in Lynnwood and business office in Centralia. He sold the entire business in April 2016 in order to found health:latch. After treating thousands of children, some of whom struggled with breastfeeding due to tongue and lip tie, he has a unique understanding of the issue. Seeing firsthand how stressful it can be for families, he has created a specialty practice dedicated to changing the lives of these babies and their families.
Dr. Thomas is a member of the Tongue Tie and Lip Tie Support Network, the International Affiliation of Tongue Tie Professionals, the American Dental Association, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the WA State Association of Pediatric Dentists, the WA State Dental Association, and the Seattle Lactation Journal Study Club.
In his free time, Dr. Thomas loves to spend time with his family, golfs when he can, and still likes to hoop it up. He’s also always game for a good physical challenge. He has summited Mt. Rainier, hiked Rim2Rim2Rim, climbed Half Dome, and maybe – just maybe – was an alternate for American Ninja Warrior in 2018. Ask him when you visit.
Scott A. Siegel, MD, DDS, FACS, FICS, FAAP, DABOMS
Keynote Saturday, 9:05 am – 10:05 am
Effects of Lingual Frenectomy on Infant Sleep and Tongue Mobility. Ongoing Research.
Abstract
Breastfeeding is almost universally accepted as being beneficial for infants. During breastfeeding, the infant uses his tongue to latch onto the mother’s nipple and areola. The nipple extends almost as far as the baby’s hard-soft-palate junction (HSPJ). The baby then moves his mandible in an up and down motion to extract milk.
Ankyloglossia, also known as tongue-tie, is a condition where the lingual frenulum, the tissue that connects the tongue to the bottom of the mouth, is unusually thick, short, or tight. This limits the motion of the tongue and can impede feeding. Tongue-tie is currently treated with a frenectomy. In this surgery, the connection between the lingual frenulum and the tongue is slightly cut to allow for better motion of the tongue. However, the use of frenectomies for the treatment of tongue-tied infants has been controversial as there are no universally agreed-upon measures that indicate the need for a frenectomy. While frenectomies are not highly invasive or risky surgeries, they do cause slight injury and discomfort to the infants and should not be performed unless they are necessary and beneficial. Therefore, it is important to determine the effectiveness of frenectomies in treating ankyloglossia. The goal of the study was to quantify any changes in breastfeeding due to frenectomy.
Tongue-ties affect infants’ craniofacial development which may lead to airway complications, colic, and poor sleep. This condition can disturb neurodevelopment, suck-swallow coordination and potentially lead to sleep apnea. Furthermore, tongue-ties alter the suck-swallow and breathing coordination, causing the infant to experience apneas during the feeding process. Investigating how to improve disturbed sleep during infancy is critical for early intervention. With your help, we hope to learn if having a lingual frenectomy decreases biological effects of stress and helps to improve the quality of sleep. Looking at objective variables during sleep such as movement, sleep and stress-related hormone levels such as salivary melatonin and salivary cortisol may help elucidate what parents often report with improved sleep quality after lingual frenectomy. These techniques of data collection are both minimally invasive and easy for parents to perform at home.
Our current understanding is that tongue-tie has been shown by Guilleminault et al. as a marker for the future development of obstructive sleep apnea. The goal of this study is to provide objective evidence of the impact of tongue ties on infant sleep and the positive effects of lingual frenectomy in this population.
It is the goal for us to assist the pediatric medical community in the formation of a universal screening protocol for infant tongue ties.
Biographical Highlights
Scott A. Siegel, MD, DDS, FACS, FICS, FAAP, Diplomate American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery / Diplomate American Board of Laser Surgery Effects of Lingual Frenectomy on Infant Sleep and Tongue Mobility. Ongoing Research. Scott A. Siegel, MD, DDS, FACS, FICS, FAAP is a double board-certified, dual degree MD, DDS, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon. Dr. Siegel is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, International College of Surgeons, and the first oral and maxillofacial surgeon awarded Fellowship to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Dr. Siegel is also an active member of numerous medical and dental professional organizations. Dr. Siegel has over 25 years’ experience as an oral and maxillofacial surgeon and has devoted the past 19 years to the treatment of issues related to tethered oral tissues, he has performed over 30,000 tethered oral tissue surgical procedures to date.
Educated at the State University of New York at Stony Brook Schools of Medicine and School of Dental Medicine, and OMFS residency at Long Island Jewish Medical Center in New York. Dr. Siegel maintains a private practice based in New York City, and Long Island, NY.
Dr. Siegel is internationally recognized as a pioneering laser TOTs surgeon. During his surgical residency and in private practice Dr. Siegel was mentored by his close friend and colleague, world-renowned pediatric surgeon and tongue-tie pioneer Elizabeth “Betty” Coryllos, MD, FACS, FRCS, FAAP. Dr. Siegel has been treating TOTs patients for the past 19 years ranging from infants to adults. Dr. Siegel lectures internationally, is a peer reviewer, on editorial boards of medical journals and conducts clinical research and publishes in various areas related to TOTs including aerodigestive disorders related to TOTs such as Aerophagia Induced Reflux (AIR).
Dr. Siegel is currently working as a clinical investigator working in collaboration with the Department of Biomedical Engineering at Columbia University and Tel Aviv University in utilizing ultrasound in the understanding the kinematics of tongue movement in infants, children, and adults with ankyloglossia as well as a clinical investigator with the City University of New York Child Development Lab looking at infant sleep pre- and post-lingual frenectomy with measures of cortisol and melatonin.
Robert A. Strauss DDS, MD, FACS
Keynote Saturday, 10:20 am – 11:55 am
Laser physics for poets: how the good practitioner uses basic principles for the best clinical laser results
Abstract
As a surgical modality, lasers have many advantages over cold steel or electrocautery. However, using a laser in the same manner as either of these will result in unpredictable, erratic and potentially very poor results. Understanding that laser use is based strictly on the physics of light energy, one can apply a few very basic physics concepts to obtain repeatable, predictable and positive results. This lecture will discuss the “Big 3” techniques to using surgical lasers and how to manage power, time and spot size to maximize efficiency while limiting lateral thermal damage.
Biographical Highlights
Robert A. Strauss, DDS, MD, FACS, Professor and Director of the Residency Training Program in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at the Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center, and Past President of the American College of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Dr. Strauss is Board Certified by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and is a former Chair of the Major Surgery Section of the Board. Over the last 30 years he has authored numerous publications and textbook chapters on the use of lasers in oral and maxillofacial surgery.
Dr. Strauss received his dental degree from the University of Buffalo and his medical degree from the UHSA School of Medicine. He completed his internship at the Buffalo General Hospital and residencies in both Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and in Anesthesiology at the Michael Reese Medical Center in Chicago.
Dr. Strauss specializes in laser surgery of the head and neck, facial and jaw reconstructive surgery, cosmetic facial surgery, and sleep apnea surgery. His research interests include laser and cosmetic surgery, sleep apnea, anesthesia and orthognathic and reconstructive surgery.
C. Kumar N. Patel, PhD, MS, the Inventor of the CO2 Laser
Joint Session Saturday, 12:00 pm – 12:25 pm
Presenting the “Kumar Patel Prize in Laser Surgery” Annual Award
Biographical Highlights
C. Kumar N. Patel was born in Baramati, India in 1938. He received his bachelor’s degree in Telecommunications from Poona University at the age of 19 (1958), then came to the US for graduate school. He earned an MS (1959) and PHD (1961) in Electrical Engineering from Stanford University. He spent more than 30 years at Bell Labs, starting in 1961.
Dr. Patel began doing fundamental research in laser action in the pure rare gases. This led him to discover laser action in carbon dioxide (CO2) in 1963. He is the inventor of the carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and the Spin-Flip Raman lasers. He pioneered the use of these and other lasers to measure trace gases in difficult environments.
In February, 2000 he founded Pranalytica, Inc. in Santa Monica, CA. where he is CEO and Chairman of the Board. The company initially developed revolutionary ultra-sensitive trace gas detection instrumentation based on laser spectroscopy. Driven by advances in its laser sources, Pranalytica led the commercialization of revolutionary new infrared light sources – quantum cascade lasers.
Dr. Patel is a Professor of Physics with a joint appointment in Electrical Engineering at UCLA. He served as UCLA’s vice chancellor for research through 1999. Among his many awards, Patel was elected to the National Academy of Science in 1974 and the National Academy of Engineering in 1978. He received the National Medal of Science given by the President of the United States in 1996.
Robyn Merkel-Walsh, MA, CCC-SLP, COM®; and
Lori Overland, MS, CCC-SLP, C/NDT, CLC
Saturday, 1:15 pm – 2:00 pm
Considering the Functional Impact of TOTs and the Importance of Pre – and Post-Op Care for Frenectomy Patients
Abstract
The SLP’s role in feeding and speech disorders that are subsequent to ankyloglossia are not clearly defined in level one research studies (Merdad & Mascarenhas, 2013); however clinical evidence and emergent studies are evolving to support the need for pre- and post-op care.
The ASHA Scope of Practice informs us that SLP’s role includes conducting a comprehensive assessment, including clinical and instrumental evaluation; identifying normal and abnormal swallowing anatomy and physiology; and identifying signs of possible or potential disorders in the upper aerodigestive tract (ASHA, 2016).
The SLP’s scope also includes orofacial myofunctional disorders including oral anomalies (e.g., cleft lip/palate, dental malocclusion, macroglossia, oral-motor dysfunction, etc. (ASHA, 2016). This certainly includes ankyloglossia. Merkel-Walsh & Overland (2017) discussed that the SLP’s role in the assessment and treatment of ankyloglossia, considers not only the structure, but the impact on function in regards to feeding and speech. Assessment should consider pre-feeding, feeding skills and speech that are impacted by the lingual restriction (Boshart, 2015; Merkel-Walsh & Overland, 2018). These noted deficits then become targeted goals of a pre/post-operative program to support the necessary oral motor skills for a safe and effective, nutritive feeding and improved speech clarity. (Bahr, 2010; Morris & Klein, 2000; Overland & Merkel-Walsh 2013).
Biographical Highlights - Robyn Merkel-Walsh, MA, CCC-SLP, COM®
Robyn Merkel-Walsh, M.A., CCC-SLP, COM® is a Licensed Speech Pathologist and Certified Orofacial Myologist with over 24 years of experience in the state of NJ. She is employed full time by the Ridgefield Board of Education and runs a private practice in Ridgefield, NJ. She has been elected NJ Kids Top Doctors in 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2018.
Robyn specializes in Oral-Placement, feeding and orofacial myofunctional disorders in children. Her private practice focuses on Oral-Placement Disorders in children, and she has expanded her practice to teens and adults over the past two years. She conducts evaluations and Program Plans for children across the tri-state area.
Her publications include SMILE (Systematic Intervention for Lingual Elevation), Art Talk, Handy Handouts, OPT-S Kit, and she co-authored Sensory Stix, A Sensory Motor Approach to Feeding, Functional Assessment and Remediation of Tethered Oral Tissues and OPT Goals for Speech Clarity. She has also written several articles for the TalkTools® website, the ASHA Leader and Advance Magazine for Speech Pathologists. She has been published five consecutive years at the annual convention of the American Speech-Language and Hearing Association.
Robyn is a lecturer for professional enhancement courses as part of TalkTools® Speakers Bureau. She teaches OPT, TOTs, Tongue Thrust and Autism classes that have been offered for ASHA CEUs, and has been invited to speak on Oral Placement disorders by the New Milford Board of Education, The Apraxia Network, AAPPSPA, the International Association of Orofacial Myology The American Laser Study Club and the MOSAIC Foundation. She is actively involved in parental support groups for apraxia and autism, and monitors an interactive Oral Placement Discussion Board on Facebook. Robyn was a chief clinician in a research project for the Moebius Foundation, and trains Level 3 and 4 Talk Tools candidates.
Robyn received both her undergraduate and graduate degrees from Montclair State University, where she was later invited to be an adjunct/clinical supervisor. She also taught classes at Bergen Community College, and is a former clinical site coordinator for Seton Hall University. She currently is a clinical site supervisor for Malloy College. She is a member of ASHA, AAPPSPA, NJEA, IAOM, OMI, Ankyloglossia Bodyworkers, ICAP, and The Bergen County Apraxia Association. She served a term on the NJSHA Board of Directors and as the private practice chair. She is the Board Chair of the Oral Motor Institute which was founded by Pamela Marshalla. She is the proud recipient of the ASHA ACE Award and the Ridgefield Woman of the Year 2019 in Business.
Robyn has specialized training in Oral-Placement Disorders, feeding, apraxia, Applied Behavioral Analysis, TOTs, autism, Myofunctional disorders, orofacial myology, craniofacial anomalies, Beckman Techniques and PROMPT. Robyn also has a specialized interest in integrative medicine and holistic healing.
Biographical Highlights - Lori Overland, MS, CCC-SLP, C/NDT, CLC
Lori specializes in dealing with the unique needs of infants, toddlers, preschoolers and school-aged children with oral motor, feeding and speech disorders. She has received an award from the Connecticut Down Syndrome Association for her work within this population.
Lori consults with children from all over the world, providing evaluations, re-evaluations, program plans, and week-long therapy programs. Lori also provides consults to local school districts and Birth-to-Three organizations. Her goal in addressing feeding and speech challenges is to improve the quality of life for both the children she serves and their families.
In addition to her private practice, Lori is a member of TalkTools speaker’s bureau. Lori has lectured on sensory-motor feeding disorders across the United States and internationally. Her classes, “Feeding Therapy: A Sensory-Motor Approach” and “Developing Oral-Motor Feeding Skills in the Down Syndrome Population” are approved for ASHA and AOTA CEUs. She is the author of “A Sensory-Motor Approach to Feeding”, Perspectives on Swallowing and Swallowing Disorders (Dysphagia) (October 2011) and “Food for Thought”, Advance for Directors in Rehabilitation Magazine (May 2001). She holds degrees from Hofstra University and Adelphi University and has her neurodevelopmental certification. She is a Certified Lactation Counselor and is pursuing her IBCLC certification.
Justin Roche, MB ChB, MRCPCH, IBCLC
Saturday, 1:15 pm – 2:00 pm
Can’t eat or won’t eat? A case study on a nasogastric fed infant.
Abstract
A case presentation of a 9-month-old infant who had an oral aversion and required nasogastric feeds. She had a tongue tie but required orofacial myofunctional therapy and physiotherapy prior to her tongue-tie release. We will show her initial presentation and her progress including release and her feeding progress.
Biographical Highlights
Justin is a Consultant Paediatrician and a Member of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (MRCPCH) and a Fellow of the Faculty of Paediatrics, Royal College of Physicians of Ireland and have registration with the Medical Council (Number 171584) under the Specialist Division for Paediatrics.
He has spent thousands of hours on continuing education having attended numerous conferences and courses on tongue-tie, predominantly in the States, in order to be at the forefront of care for infants, children, and adults. He is also a board member of the International Consortium of Ankyloglossia Professionals (ICAP).
Justin’s interest in Tongue Tie dates back to 1999 when his first daughter was born. At 5 days old she had her tongue tie divided in Southampton. Six children and four tongue ties later, he returned to Southampton to start his training in how to divide tongue ties himself. He has been treating tongue ties since 2008 and running a dedicated tongue tie clinic since 2010. Currently, Justin and the Team would assess and divide tongue-ties +/- lip-ties in over one thousand children each year.
John C. Godbold, Jr., DVM
Saturday, 1:15 pm – 2:00 pm
Veterinary Photobiomodulation Therapy Contraindications, Special Considerations, and Precautions – 2020 Update
Abstract
Since Endre Mester and his colleagues first reported what we now know as photobiomodulation in 1968, those using lasers for therapeutic purposes have sought to use them safely. Researchers, industry, and laser therapists have published contraindications for laser therapy to ensure that those using the devices “do no harm.” Texts and journal articles have published lists of contraindications, some of which have been reproduced by manufacturers and vendors of therapy lasers in their device user manuals.
Significant inconsistency and inaccuracies have evolved in recommendations in publications, texts, and user manuals. The historical contraindications of photobiomodulation have been not been appropriately reevaluated and updated considering the significant number of publications that have appeared as laser therapy has become more widely used and analyzed in numerous bench top studies, animal model studies, and clinical trials.
Some conditions originally considered contraindication for photobiomodulation therapy are now no longer contraindicated but do require special consideration before treatment. Some simply require precaution when treating. Other conditions are no longer contraindications.
This presentation will include a review of the historical contraindications for veterinary photobiomodulation therapy, followed by a more up-to-date definition of those contraindications based on a review of current literature.
Melissa Mugno, OMT
Saturday, 2:00 pm – 2:45 pm
Myofunctional Orthodontics Connection
Abstract
Discussion of practical approaches and understanding on how to detect and diagnosis poor Myofunctional habits using the detention as a road map. Having the entire office be able to detect and understand the negative impact on the patient’s mouth as well as other proven areas. It will also allow the dental team to provide definitive treatment options within myofunctional orthodontics for pediatric and adult patients. Orofacial Myology is defined as the treatment of the orofacial musculature with the goal of improving muscle tonicity and activity. This training will keep within the pattern of practice of establishing the correct functional activities of the tongue, lips, and jaw, so that normal growth and development may progress in a stable, homeostatic environment that has been long-standing. This training takes all that and goes into the depths of acceptance, education, and implementation within the scope of all the different functional appliances.
Biographical Highlights
Melissa is a pioneer within the modern Myofunctional Movement. Since becoming an Orofacial Myofunctional Therapist in 2014, she has improved the lives of hundreds of patients, lectured around the country, and raised the standards of the profession. Her background as a Dental Hygienist and experience in the fields of Orthodontics and Pedodontics contributes to her success. Melissa treats patients of all ages suffering from a wide range of conditions stemming from adverse myofunctional habits. She now resides in Las Vegas where she enjoys being with her family, cooking and being involved in her community.
Melissa is proud to announce that she has become a Breathe Associate at the Breathe Institute in Los Angles with Soroush Zaghi, MD, ENT.
Maribel Santos-Cordero, DMD
Saturday, 2:00 pm – 2:45 pm
Developing compensations may allow you to survive but not necessarily thrive
Abstract
The body has an amazing capability to adapt in order to survive. Babies with tethered oral tissues often times struggle to nurse and thrive. Insufficient training of health professionals involved in infant care may prevent early identification of these restrictions and allow for children to grow and develop compensations that can alter many basic functions of the body.
Not every restriction needs immediate intervention but being able to identify the signs and symptoms of inadequate compensations may reduce the risk posed to normal growth & development. Feeding disorders like choking, gagging, packing food in the cheeks and failing to eat certain foods may be related to a tongue-tie. Some children spend years in speech therapy without making much progress only to discover that their fluency problems and articulation errors are related to restricted tongue movement. New research studies have suggested that the development of sleep issues, ranging from restless sleep to sleep apnea, is often linked to tongue-ties and poor tongue posture.
Proper dental growth and development also depends on the tongue’s ability to rest against the palate and move freely in the mouth.
Dental issues like a narrow palate, cross-bites, crowding, gingivitis, dental cavities, and poor orofacial growth may develop as a result of tethered oral tissues.
Adequate screening with a four-system checkpoint seems prudent when evaluating a patient with tethered oral tissues. Often times a team approach with other specialists is necessary in order to help the patient overcome their compensations and fully thrive.
Biographical Highlights
Dr. Maribel Santos-Cordero was born and raised in San Juan, Puerto Rico. She earned a DMD degree from the University Of Puerto Rico School Of Dental Medicine with high honors and has been practicing dentistry since 1994. Dr. Santos-Cordero completed her residency program in Pediatric Dentistry at The Children’s Hospital of Buffalo, NY. She is a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, and a member in good standing of the Academy of Laser Dentistry, the American Dental Association and its local affiliates.
Treating children is her vocation and it is her mission to provide each patient with the necessary tools to achieve better oral health. Dr. Santos is very passionate about the need to create awareness of the potential health problems in children with lip & tongue ties and engages in a team approach with other healthcare professionals to provide her patients with treatment options that will help them thrive. She has earned privileges to practice dental surgery at the Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg, FL and has been on staff since 2002.
A firm believer in the quote: “If you can’t repay a favor, pay it forward”, she often volunteers her time and services to those in need through events like Project Christmas Smile, Remote Area Medical Volunteer Corps and the Baptist Church Dental Van. Since 2012, she has organized a “Give Kids a Smile” event at her office and provided free dental treatment to children from disadvantaged homes with limited access to care. She also gives back to the community by providing consultations and treatment to patients with Cleft Lip and Palate and other craniofacial deformities.
Dr. Santos-Cordero believes that learning is a never-ending process.
She regularly attends continuing education courses internationally and across the United States to expand her professional scope and to stay up to date on the very latest techniques. She has been a guest lecturer at various local and international groups and organizations. She speaks Spanish and English fluently.
Since 2012, Dr. Santos-Cordero has been honored by her peers with the distinction of being named one of America’s Top Dentists in the Sarasota-Bradenton area and has appeared in the Sarasota Health Magazine as one of the Best Doctors & Dentists in her specialty.
Dr. Santos-Cordero moved to Sarasota with her husband and two boys in 2001. When she is not in the office you can find her exercising, enjoying church and sports activities with her family or involved in her non-profit organization, “Ride 2 Remember”, to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s Disease research.
Jakub Kaczmarek, DVM, ECVS Resident
Saturday, 2:00 pm – 2:45 pm
The urogenital surgery: smooth, quick and without bleeding. Is it possible?
Abstract
Surgical procedures of the urinary tract and genital organs are performed on daily basis in small animals. Ovariohysterectomy and orchiectomy are the most common procedures in the field of genital surgery. Mastectomy, episiotomy is usually performed due to neoplastic changes. In the urinary tract cystotomy for removal of uroliths and urethrostomy are frequently performed surgical procedures of the bladder and urethra. More advanced procedures include nephrectomy, omentalization of prostatic abscess/cysts and surgical management of ectopic urethers. The main feature of soft tissues belonging to the urogenital system is a very high vascularization. The consequence of using standard surgical instruments while performing above-mentioned procedures is significant bleeding. Due to poor visibility the surgical time increases which can result in increased postoperative complication rate.
Surgical lasers provide the opportunity to perform bloodless surgery. As a result, one gets an excellent visualization that allows an accurate tissue approach. The high absorption of the CO2 laser wavelength makes it a great instrument for soft tissue surgeries. The high intensity and power of the laser beam is sufficient for sealing most blood vessels, lymphatics, and nerve endings. When the CO2 laser is used properly the collateral thermal damage to surrounding tissue are minimal. Another type of laser that can be successfully used in urogenital surgical procedures is diode laser. It is mostly used to perform cystoscopic – guided ablation of ectopic ureters. Another minimal-invasive procedure is laser lithotripsy. Lithotripy is used for the fragmentation of stones that are larger than the urethral diameter. The Hol:YAG Laser is more commonly used. Its energy is absorbed by fluid and can, therefore, be used in close proximity to the mucosal wall without causing significant damage, including tight locations within the urethra.
Complications of lower urinary tract surgical procedures occur uncommonly if the basic surgical and laser safety principles are used. Appropriate diagnosis, detailed knowledge of the regional anatomy, and surgical planning are essential for a successful outcome.
Heidi F. Widoff, RDH, COM®
Saturday, 2:45 pm – 3:30 pm
The Clinical Oral Facial Massage – More than just a Myofascial Release
Abstract
Myofascial release is an alternative medical therapy proven to be an effective treatment improving skeletal muscle, spasmodic muscle pain, blood and lymphatic circulation, and stimulating the stretch reflex in muscles. The Clinical Oral Facial Massage is an innovated modality derived from myofascial release which opens the fascia under the tongue, relieves facial tension, balances the TMJ, opens around the sinuses intra- and extra-orally while combining nasal breathing techniques to increase N2O intake and help in relieving migraines. The Clinical Oral Facial Massage is not only for patients that have pain but for all patients from infants to adults for pre and post frenectomies and myofunctional therapy to alleviate the fascia tension of the head, neck and oral cavity.
Biographical Highlights
Heidi Widoff has been a practicing dental hygienist since 1980, licensed in Florida, California and New York. She began her successful practice Oral Facial Health Care in 2006 receiving her certification in orofacial myology in 2009. Heidi served on the board of the IAOM for four years and taught hands-on exercises with the AOMT. With interest in breathing and sleep apnea, she acquired her certification in Buteyko and restorative breathing. Over the years, Heidi has trained various dentists, ENT’s, and oral surgeons on how to release frenulums specific for myofunctional stipulations. Since 2015, Heidi Widoff has been incorporating techniques she has learned from her previous experiences and integrating them into her massage therapies for adults to infants.
Heidi is also an active member of the AAPMD, AAMS, ADHA and new to the AMTA (American Massage Therapy Association). Currently living in Delray Beach, Florida.
Brynn L. Leroux, DDS
Saturday, 2:45 pm – 3:30 pm
Pediatric TOTS Case Presentations from Birth through Adulthood
Abstract
This presentation will review a variety of different case presentations of TOTS treatment from birth through adulthood, including the importance of a collaborative approach. Numerous treatment strategies and sedation options for the pediatric patient will be reviewed. Correlations between TOTS and feeding, speech, airway, sleep, dental/orthodontic effects, and more will be reviewed.
Biographical Highlights
Dr. Brynn Leroux is a graduate of Louisiana State University School of Dentistry and was ranked 2nd in her graduating class. She completed a residency in Pediatric Dentistry at the Medical University of South Carolina, acting as Chief Resident. A native of Maringouin, LA, Dr. Leroux graduated as Valedictorian from Catholic High School of Pointe Coupee and continued on to study Biological Sciences at LSU in Baton Rouge. Dr. Leroux is a partner in Associates in Pediatric Dentistry, a group practice with 4 locations serving the Greater Baton Rouge area. She is a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry and has begun the certification process through the American Board of Laser Surgery. She is an active member of numerous local and national dental organizations and honorary societies, including the Greater Baton Rouge Dental Association, Louisiana Dental Association, American Dental Association, Southwest Society of Pediatric Dentistry, American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, OKU National Dental Society, C.E. Kells Honorary Society, and Pierre Fauchard Honor Society. After being personally affected by tongue-tie and sleep-disordered breathing, Dr. Leroux has taken a special interest in tethered oral tissues, airway-centered dentistry, sleep medicine, and interceptive orthodontics. She is a TOTS trained professional, an active member and speaker of the American Laser Study Club, and a founding member of the International Consortium of Oral Ankylofrenula Professionals (ICAP). She evaluates her patients for signs and symptoms of tethered oral tissues and sleep-disordered breathing and provides laser lip and tongue tie revisions from birth through adulthood using the LightScalpel CO2 laser. Her practice can offer any level of sedation or anesthesia “in house” as needed to provide patients with the most thorough, positive, and safest laser revision experience. Dr. Leroux works closely with a team of local lactation consultants, therapists, bodyworkers, pediatricians, and ENTs to ensure collaboration, follow-through, and comprehensive care for her patients. In her spare time, Dr. Leroux, her husband, Lance, and her children, Anson and Amelie, enjoy entertaining family and friends, attending LSU football games, exercising, traveling, and spending time at their lake house.
Chih-Ming “Jimmy” Yu, DVM
Saturday, 2:45 pm – 3:30 pm
How surgical lasers help veterinary practices grow
Abstract
It is not an easy decision for any practice owner to purchase a piece of equipment. Is it worth buying a CO2 laser for a few-year-old clinic? This presentation will look into how CO2 surgical lasers help a new practice grow.
Biographical Highlights
Dr. Yu is a graduate of the National Pingtung University of Science and Technology and obtained the Taiwanese veterinarian license in the same year. He is a member of the Chinese Society of Veterinary Sciences. He came to America and earned his master’s degree in Public Health from Tulane University, New Orleans, LA. He received further training at Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN. He worked at the Greenbrier Animal Hospital in Evansville, IN, and began to use a surgical laser in various surgeries. He is now the owner of the U-Vet Animal Clinic LLC – a small animal practice in Newburgh, IN, and laser surgery provider around the tri-state area. Dr. Yu is a member of AVMA, INVMA, SWINVMA, AAHA, VIN, and IVPA. Dr. Yu has a particular interest in patients with anal gland issues, Diabetes, Cushings, Addisons, and tumors.
James M. Bronson, DDS, FIAO
Saturday, 3:45 pm – 4:30 pm
Cranial-Mandibular-Cervical-Respiratory Complex
Abstract
An introduction to the Cranial-Mandibular-Cervical-Respiratory Complex (CMCRC). Many of the causes and sequelae of temporo-mandibular dysfunction (TMD), obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and sleep disorder breathing (SDB), hyoid bone position and other dysfunctions can be traced to CMCRC strains and imbalances.
Biographical Highlights
- 1983 Georgetown University School of Dentistry (cum laude)
- Omicron Kappa Upsilon Dental Honor Society
- Founder ALF Educational Institute (AEI)
- Director of Clinical Programs AEI
- Fellow International Association for Orthodontics (IAO)
- Senior Certified Instructor IAO
- Fellow Buteyko Professionals International
Kirk Kollmann, DMD
Saturday, 3:45 pm – 4:30 pm
Tips and Tricks I’ve Learned Through the Years.
Abstract
Go on my journey form Scissors to Diodes to Scissors to CO2 lasers.
Find out the pitfalls and advantages of each and why I settled on the CO2 laser. I will discuss my protocol and what happens when a mother and infant come to my office. Having fine-tuned my skills over the years has led to better outcomes and happier patients.
Biographical Highlights
Dr. Kirk Kollmann graduated from the University of Florida College of Dentistry and did his Pediatric Dental residency at Children’s Hospital of Michigan in Detroit. He is active in organized dentistry being the editor for the Chicago Dental Society North Side Branch Newsletter for many years. He co-produced a video on Stainless Steel Crowns with Dr. Marvin Berman and has spoken on various topics at the Chicago Midwinter Meeting, National AGD Meetings, AAPD, and numerous other meetings. He is a diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentists and enjoys serving the Cranio-Facial population in the Chicagoland area while teaching the pediatric dental residents at Lurie Children’s Memorial Hospital.
Another passion of Dr. Kollmann stems from learning about Myo-functional therapy and its relationship to breastfeeding. This propelled him to work with the dyad of mother and infant and the problems they were having with breastfeeding. He has been practicing dentistry for over 30 years and is a partner in private practice on the north side of Chicago.
Miguel Carreira, PhD, MSc, DTO, Pst-Grd, DMD, DVM, CMVAA
Saturday, 3:45 pm – 4:30 pm
Comparing the blade scalpel and CO2 laser surgery in the management of nasopharyngeal masses in dogs
Abstract
Benign and malignant masses may arise from the nasal cavity or they can be primarily growth in the pharyngeal area. Due to the region’s anatomical characteristics, oncological surgery in this area it is very difficult to perform and to achieve the complete removal of the processes. According to the literature in maxillofacial/head and neck oncology surgery, the CO2 laser is primarily suited for masses trans-oral resections.
Ken Hooks, RRT, RPSGT
Saturday, 4:30 pm – 5:15 pm
Mid-Face Deficiency; The Successful Treatment of a Pharmacological Cover Up
Abstract
Breathing is essential to life, and yet the passages through which air flows into the body is generally an afterthought. Mid-face deficiency can sabotage and undermine breathing dynamics; most importantly during sleep. Repeated sympathetic nervous system activation and sleep deprivation secondary to sleep-disordered breathing has been proven to cause physiological detriment and produce somatic complaints. The current method of diagnosing sleep-disordered breathing lacks the ability to quantify the significance of flow limited breathing, often caused by mid-face deficiency. Due to this limit, many adults and children are prescribed a pharmacological solution to abate so-called idiopathic symptoms (bruxism, intrathoracic pressure changes, sleep fragmentation, sleep deprivation, parasomnia, aggression, attention deficit, developmental delay, neurocognitive impairment/behavioral dysfunction, and nocturnal enuresis). With proper mid-face assessment, polysomnography interpretation, and architecture correction, idiopathic symptoms may be lessened, if not alleviated. This study focuses on a 9-year-old autistic patient seen by a primary care physician and sleep physician, on separate occasions. The result from these visits was prescriptions and medications to control aggression, attention deficit, hyperactivity, daytime fatigue, and enuresis.
Biographical Highlights
Founder/operator of True Sleep Diagnostics Ken is a registered respiratory therapist with 7 years of experience and a registered polysomnographic technologist for adults and pediatrics with 6 years of experience. He is also the polysomnographic technician instructor at Greenville Technical College. He co-authored the case report “Rapid Maxillary Expansion and Adenotonsillectomy in 9-Year-Old Twins with Pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome: An Interdisciplinary Effort. He is currently working on 2 case studies; “Pediatric Home Sleep Testing” and “Myofunctional Therapy, the Missing Link”.
Cara Riek, DNP, RN, FNP-BC, IBCLC, DABLS
Saturday, 4:30 pm – 5:15 pm
Reattachment, Reassessment, Re-release: Considerations, feedback and concerns after the initial release
Abstract
The thought of a second release has become a sort of taboo in the tongue tie community. Unfortunately, second releases are not entirely uncommon. Reattachment is not solely the result of the actions by family or patient nor is it the results of actions by the release provider. Causes of reattachment range for lack of team approach (including the IBCLC/SLP and bodyworker), lack of proper aftercare, and incorrect timing of release. Assessment and care provided by the IBCLC/SLP, bodyworker, and release provider are imperative to positive outcomes for families. This presentation addresses the multitude of causes for reattachment, considerations for initial and secondary release, the importance of team approach, and collegial dialogue to advance patient care. Case studies are presented from the perspective of the IBCLC and release provider.
Biographical Highlights
Dr. Cara graduated from Arizona State University with a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree. She is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner in addition to having her IBCLC certification. Dr. Cara is also a diplomate of the American Board of Laser Surgery, specializing in “Oral Surgery in Infants, Toddler, and Adults.” She has also recently earned her certification as a Certified Specialist in Orofacial Myology (CSOM).
Dr. Cara describes her career as a diversifying adventure: research, teaching, nursing, and now breastfeeding medicine specialist. She strives to provide meaningful, evidence-based care to mother-baby dyads. Her mission is to support mothers where they are at and help them journey into the breastfeeding relationship they desire. She strives to make sure that each patient is able to reach their desired goal and have an amazing breastfeeding relationship.
Pedro Azevedo, DVM, MSc, Pst-Grd
Saturday, 4:30 pm – 5:15 pm
Advantages of the CO2 laser use in total mastectomy surgery outcome in bitches
Abstract
Mammary glands tumors are the second more common oncological disease in dogs, being more frequently in older bitches. Mastectomy is the first approach to treat mammary gland tumor in animals, and it is a very demanding surgery with a high level of tissues trauma, demanding from the patient a good healing process to restore the normal function and structure integrity of the tissues. Cortisol is a corticosteroid hormone produced by the adrenal gland at the cortex in the middle and fasciculated region, and it is directly involved in all responses to stress independently of the etiology. Similar to the plasmatic lactate which results from the anaerobic metabolism developed when hypoxia and hypoperfusion are presented at the tissues.
Biographical Highlights
Pedro Azevedo holds the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine – University of Lisbon (FMV-ULisboa), Portugal. His Master thesis focused on the evaluation of postoperative pain in small animals. He completed several postgraduate international trainings (Pst-Grd) in different veterinary medicine and surgery fields, such as pain, ultrasonography and microsurgery. He is a Senior Doctor and leads the team of staff veterinarians at a private Centre of Veterinary Medicine – Anjos of Assis Veterinary Medicine Centre (CMVAA), in Barreiro, Portugal. His scientific interests in the veterinary medicine focus on anesthesia, pain and surgery. He has authored several scientific papers in different international index journals in the areas of anesthesia and analgesia, surgery, internal medicine, orthopedics and trauma, and veterinary dentistry.
Matthew J. Rowe, DDS, MSD
Saturday, 5:15 pm – 6:00 pm
Streamlining the TOTS Three-Ring Circus: A multi-specialty approach to functional frenectomies.
Abstract
Moving from pathologic functional disorganization of tethered oral tissues to a smooth transition of long-term health, a multi-specialty approach can be developed to comprehensively treat our patients suffering from ties. A surgeon’s perspective of what team members are crucial to accomplish predictable full releases for a lifetime of health benefits. How do we seek out and develop the collaborative tongue-tie team? How can referrals among team members be completed effectively to coordinate care? What is the appropriate follow-up and communication between the team members and the patient? How do providers gain further referrals and colleagues? How do we become involved in the tongue-tie community? An in-depth discussion of managing patient expectations and outcomes as well as how to manage unexpected results. Treating ankyloglossia does not have to be as difficult as pronouncing ankyloglossia! The team approach cookbook.
Biographical Highlights
Dr. Matthew J. Rowe is a native of Fort Wayne, Indiana. He completed his Bachelor’s in Science degree at Xavier University with a Biology Major and Business Minor. He attended the Indiana University School of Dentistry, graduating with honors in 2010. He continued his stay at IU to complete his 3-year residency in Periodontics, receiving the prestigious Dr. Henry Swenson award for clinical excellence during his second and third years of training. He is Board Certified as a periodontist and owns and runs his practice, Southern Roots Periodontics: Implant & Laser Dentistry, LLC in downtown Columbia, SC. He is proficient in advanced bone grafting, sinus augmentation, wisdom teeth extractions, implantology, soft tissue grafting, and regenerative techniques.
Dr. Rowe’s true passion shines when working with patients suffering from ankyloglossia. He speaks nationally regarding diagnosis, treatment, and developing collaborative care about treating tongue and lip ties. He dedicates one clinic day per week to treating infants who are having difficulties with nursing and/or bottle-feeding. He truly believes in treating mother and baby as a dyad as well as using a unique integrative approach to treatment. This approach involves coordination and collaboration with colleagues throughout the State of South Carolina and the surrounding states. He works closely with IBCLC’s, SLP’s, orthodontists, pediatricians, ENT’s, chiropractors and massage therapists, to deliver a comprehensive approach to pre-surgical and post-surgical wound management and therapy. He treats adolescent and adult patients with ankyloglossia during the remainder of the week and is developing an airway management approach to treating ankyloglossia and sleep apnea within his periodontal practice. He looks forward to collaborating with more colleagues within the pediatric and orthodontic communities to learn more about how he can better serve his patients by being a proactive provider.
Dr. Rowe is a member of the American Dental Association, American Board of Periodontology, American Academy of Periodontology, American Laser Study Club, International Consortium of Oral Ankylofrenula Professionals (ICAP), South Carolina Dental Association, Greater Columbia Dental Association, and Indiana Dental Association. He was recently voted onto the Board of Directors of the International Consortium of Oral Ankylofrenula Professionals (ICAP). While serving on the Board, he will help to collaborate with professionals from around the world, to bring best practice methods to the practice of treating tethered oral tissues (TOTS).
He is bilingual, with fluency in Spanish and English languages. He has traveled to Honduras to lead over 6 dental mission trips to care for the underserved. Dr. Rowe is currently a Major in the United States Army and has served for over 8 years as a dental officer within the United States Military. He regularly works with other officers and enlisted to coordinate treatment for soldiers and is experienced in collaboration and leadership.
Dr. Rowe and his wife, Hye Jea, currently have three sons, Elijah, Gabriel and Theodore. They are expecting their third son in October. He enjoys his hobbies of running, biking, swimming, hiking, and target shooting. He also enjoys donating his services and time to help special needs patients in his office.
Renuka Rao Bijoor, DDS, MPH, MDS, FDSRCS, FFDRCSI
Saturday, 5:15 pm – 6:00 pm
How It All Ties In!
Abstract
It has been ten years of using Laser technology for both, soft and hard tissues, in Pediatric Dentistry and I would like to share my experiences and beliefs. Dually trained in both Pediatric Dentistry and Oral Surgery, having trained and qualified in three continents, and having raised a son who never tasted a drop of formula despite all odds, this presentation will offer a very unique perspective about how it all ties in. Some of us are entrusted with the care of newborn babies and very young children and we need to ensure that they will breathe well and thrive well. This presentation will address the diagnosis and management of these fragile young lives, discussing the pathway to a mentally and physically healthy future for all of them.
Biographical Highlights
Dr. Renuka Rao Bijoor is a board-certified pediatric dentist practicing in New York for the past fourteen years. She is an Assistant Clinical Professor at Columbia College of Dental Medicine, where she volunteers her time at the Community Dentcare Clinic. She is also a Senior Attending at Phelps Hospital Northwell Health, where she uses the OR facilities to render care to patients with special needs or very young patients who need extensive dental care.
Dr. Bijoor trained in Oral Surgery at Nair Hospital Dental College, in Mumbai, India after which she had a private practice for seven years. She was honored to be the first woman Implantologist in India and received the ICOI Fellowship in 1995. She then furthered her education in the UK, where she trained as a resident in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery in various hospitals and completed the Fellowship Exams from the Royal College of Surgeons, both, in England, and then, in Ireland. She then came to New York, completed her DDS degree from Columbia College of Dental Medicine and her postgraduate residency training in Pediatric Dentistry at Columbia University Medical Center. In addition, she completed her EMPH degree in 2014 from Columbia’s Mailman School of Public Health. She has numerous publications and has lectured nationally and internationally on various topics pertaining to pediatric dentistry.
Dr. Bijoor is also a firm believer in organized dentistry and has volunteered her time for tripartite activities ever since her graduation. She completed her term as Chair of the Council on Membership and Communications for the New York State Dental Association and continues to serve as Chair of the Membership and Communications Committee for the Ninth District Dental Association, one of the largest components in NY. She is also a Give Kids A Smile Ambassador and continues to plan and hold numerous events, the latest being a hugely successful yearly event at the new Touro College of Dental Medicine.
In her quest for providing the best care possible for her little patients, Dr. Bijoor incorporated the use of laser technology with both, soft-tissue and hard tissue applications, in her practice ten years ago and has never looked back. It opened up a whole new dimension in her practice and enhanced the care provided to her patients to an unparalleled level.
Ziemowit Kudła, DVM; and
Anna Nikolajdu-Kudła, DVM
Saturday, 5:15 pm – 6:00 pm
Our youngest patients who, thanks to early CO2 laser surgical intervention, have a chance to live and grow normally
Abstract
Our presentation demonstrates cases of 8-12 week-old puppies in which we diagnosed BOAS and used CO2 laser treatments necessary for the patients to be able to live normally. Videos and photos are worth more than a thousand words.
Rajeev Agarwal, MD, FAAP
Keynote Sunday, 8:00 am – 9:00 am
Helping Babies to Thrive. The Agave Pediatrics Story.
Abstract
Breastfeeding has been proven to be the best source of nutrition for infants. In addition to the nutritional and health benefits, breastfeeding promotes a unique and emotional connection between the mother and baby. While the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends 6 months of exclusive breastfeeding and at least 1 year of breastfeeding, the CDC has found that only about 22.3% of the maternal-infant dyads are actually able to achieve this. In the statement on breastfeeding in 2011, the Surgeon General stated that women who encounter common breastfeeding problems (like sore nipples, engorged breasts, mastitis, and failure to latch) early on, are less likely to continue to breastfeed unless they get professional assistance. Often times these breastfeeding problems are caused by ankyloglossia or tongue-tie. This restrictive tissue hinders normal tongue movements when a baby attempts to extract milk from the breast. The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine recommends that lingual frenectomy be considered for ongoing nipple damage due to an infant with restricted tongue movement secondary to a tight lingual frenulum. Infants with ankyloglossia are at an increased risk for breastfeeding difficulties, and frenectomy often results in rapid improvement of these issues. Ankyloglossia is frequently missed and not diagnosed before breastfeeding is already lost. At Agave Pediatrics, the evaluation of ankyloglossia starts with a consultation. Consults are done in a holistic manner. They include an anatomical diagnosis, evaluation of functional impairment of tongue-tie by one of our specifically trained professionals, and also detailed discussion about the indications for the procedure (which includes counseling on the procedure itself and the aftercare). Overall, diagnosis is dependent on asking the right questions for mother and child and finding evidence of functional impairment, in corroboration with the physical exam. Once a frenectomy is indicated, parents make an appointment for the procedure. The procedure is done using a CO2 laser to make an incision parallel to the floor of the mouth, perpendicular to the tongue, after injection of 0.1-0.2 ml of 1% lidocaine for local anesthesia. The patient is taken back to mom where one of our IBCLCs helps the baby latch onto the breast and answer any other questions. A follow-up exam is done in 2 weeks to re-evaluate the baby’s progress, post-frenectomy.
Biographical Highlights
Dr. Agarwal worked on the Eastern Shore of Virginia for eight years in general pediatrics before moving to the Valley of the Sun to establish Agave Pediatrics in 2005. Dr. Agarwal underwent medical schooling at India’s premier institute of medical sciences, AIIMS, in New Delhi. He completed his residency in Pediatrics at the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston. To further his learning in subspecialty medicine, he joined the fellowship program in Pediatric Nephrology at the University of Florida at Gainesville. Under the program, he also conducted bench research at Ohio State University.
Leyli Norouz-Knutsen
Keynote Sunday, 9:05 am – 10:05 am
Building the Multi-Disciplinary Teams to Help Patients Breathe and Thrive. The Breathe Institute Story.
Abstract
A multidisciplinary team approach to comprehensive patient-centered care is of paramount importance in the complex healthcare system we live and work in. Though the tide is beginning to turn more recently, there have long been vacuums in the spaces between the numerous fields relevant to sleep and airway disorders. The Breathe Institute promotes collaboration and enhanced communication by supporting a myriad of passionate and solution-minded providers, researchers, educators and community builders across different disciplines. It’s by keeping in mind that our people are the true keystones of our organizations, that we can fill the gaps between the work we do as individuals, and the goals we share collectively with our patients and each other. Collaboration cultivates a culture of knowledge sharing, which ultimately leads to successful treatment outcomes, happy patients and teams.
Biographical Highlights
Leyli Norouz-Knutsen is the Co-Founder and Managing Director of The Breathe Institute, based in Los Angeles, CA. She is known for her uniquely fine-tuned ability to streamline organizational management structures, maximize collaboration, communications, media and branding and to inspire innovation and entrepreneurship.
Leyli has more than a decade of experience in higher education non-profit, board management and operations as a director at both the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) and San Diego State University (SDSU). Since leaving UCLA’s Anderson School of Management in 2007, Leyli has had the privilege to visit many countries, exploring cultural and business trends around the world. Leyli’s extensive background in healthcare-specific consulting and corporate strategy was the perfect combination to parlay into Co-Founding The Breathe Institute, and having the honor to serve on the Board of the American Academy of Physiological Medicine & Dentistry (AAPMD).
Soroush Zaghi, MD
Keynote Sunday, 10:20 am – 11:20 am
The Airways Disorder Diagnostics and Treatments Outlook for 2020 and beyond.
Abstract
Dr. Zaghi will provide updates and results from ongoing research at The Breathe Institute in regards to tongue-tie assessment, patient selection, surgical technique, and other treatment options for patients with sleep and breathing disorders.
Biographical Highlights
Dr. Zaghi graduated from Harvard Medical School, completed residency in ENT (Otolaryngology- Head and Neck Surgery) at UCLA, and Sleep Surgery Fellowship at Stanford University. The focus of his sub-specialty training is on the comprehensive treatment of nasal obstruction, snoring, and obstructive sleep apnea. He is very active in clinical research relating to sleep disordered breathing with over 70+ peer-reviewed research publications in the fields of neuroscience, head and neck surgery, and sleep-disordered breathing. Dr. Zaghi is particularly interested in studying the impact of tethered-oral tissues (such as tongue-tie) and oral myofascial dysfunction on maxillofacial development, upper airway resistance syndrome, and obstructive sleep apnea. He is an invited lecturer, author, and journal reviewer for topics relating to the diagnosis and management of sleep-disordered breathing and tongue-tie disorders.
The 2020 American Laser Study Club (ALSC) 3rd Annual Symposium was held on February 28, 29, and March 1, 2020, at the Opal Grand in Delray Beach near Fort Lauderdale, FL. “Breathe and Thrive” was the theme of the 2020 Symposium and it was focused on airway disorders.
The ALSC promotes Science-Based Laser Surgery, Dentistry and Safety Education. The ALSC fills the void in current Laser Surgery and Laser Dentistry education (i.e., the physics of laser-tissue interaction, such as absorption, scattering, ablation, coagulation and hemostasis, soft and hard tissue ablation, laser safety, etc.) and helps Physicians, Dentists, Veterinarians, and Practice Staff Members to excel at the efficient and safe application of laser energy in everyday practice.
*Information, terms, and conditions in this communication are subject to change without prior notice.