NCAGD Annual Meeting 2026

February 27-28, 2026

Location:Charlotte, NC

2026 NCAGD Annual Meeting

REGISTER NOW!

Dates: February 27–28, 2026
Location: The Ballantyne – 10000 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy, Charlotte, NC 28277

Hotel Accommodations: Click here to book in our Group Block Note: Hotel block closes Friday, January 30!

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Friday, February 27 • 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Track 1: Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF) Workshop (+$59)

Speaker: Dr. Hana Hobbs
Format: Hands-On Workshop | AGD Subject Code: 490

Course Description:
Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF) utilizes a patient’s own blood to accelerate healing and support tissue regeneration across multiple dental procedures. This hands-on course teaches proper phlebotomy, centrifugation, and clinical integration techniques. Participants will gain confidence incorporating PRF into implant dentistry, grafting, soft-tissue regeneration, extraction-site management, and sinus lifts.

Hands-on exercises include:
Blood draws, PRF membrane fabrication, and the creation of “sticky bone.”

Learning Objectives:

• Understand PRF biology and its role in tissue healing.

• Perform safe and effective blood collection and centrifugation.

• Apply PRF clinically to enhance healing and treatment outcomes.

• Integrate regenerative techniques into daily practice.

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Track 2: Aligned by Design – Integrating Ortho & Restorative Dentistry Through Digital Planning 

Speaker: Dr. Jennifer Bell
Format: Hands-On Workshop | AGD Subject Code: TBD

Course Description:
When orthodontics and restorative dentistry align, exceptional outcomes follow. This hands-on program explores how digital dentofacial analytics connect tooth movement, facial balance, and restorative design. Participants will learn to diagnose, plan, and execute interdisciplinary cases using modern software-driven workflows for esthetic and functional precision.

Learning Objectives:

• Analyze facial and dental parameters using digital tools.

• Integrate ortho and restorative planning for harmonious results.

• Deliver esthetic “smile try-ins” that boost patient engagement.

• Utilize digital wax-up guides for conservative preparation design.

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Track 3: Turning Ordinary into Extraordinary – Transforming Practice Culture & Patient Care

Speaker: Dr. Ankur Gupta
Format: Lecture | AGD Subject Code: 550 – Practice Management

Course Description:
Every dental team is made up of imperfect individuals—but extraordinary practices thrive on vision, honesty, and intentional systems. Dr. Gupta shares practical strategies for building accountable, motivated teams that enhance patient experiences, profitability, and happiness in the dental office.

Learning Objectives:

• Build a culture of ownership and accountability.

• Strengthen team communication and efficiency.

• Recognize habits that prevent burnout and foster fulfillment.

• Apply leadership techniques that inspire lasting change.

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Saturday, February 28 • 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Track 4: Don’t Be Obtuse – Confidently Treat the Black Triangle (+$59)

Speaker: Dr. Lauren Yasuda Rainey
Format: Hands-On Workshop | AGD Subject Code: TBD

Course Description:
Black triangles are common in post-orthodontic and periodontal patients but remain challenging to close predictably. This hands-on course presents reliable restorative solutions using anatomic mylar forms, proper tissue management, and diagnosis of underlying causes. Participants will gain the confidence to close gingival spaces within and beyond the esthetic zone.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify causes of gingival black triangles.

• Compare restorative and non-restorative treatment options.

• Execute predictable closure techniques using additive materials.

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Track 5: Institute for Laser Dentistry

Speaker: Dr. German Ramirez
Format: Lecture + Hands-On | AGD Subject Code: 135 – Laser Therapy

Course Description:
Explore the clinical power of laser dentistry in this comprehensive lecture and hands-on experience. Participants will review the science behind multiple laser wavelengths and gain practical experience performing minimally invasive procedures for soft-tissue surgery, perio therapy, implants, and airway management.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand laser-tissue interactions and wavelength selection.

• Apply lasers in periodontal, implant, airway, and esthetic cases.

• Practice soft-tissue and airway procedures on models.

• Review safety, maintenance, and profitability considerations.

About the Speaker:
Dr. Ramirez is a certified Pediatric Dentist and Fellow of the Royal College of Dentists of Canada. Holding advanced degrees in Orthodontics, Dental Sciences, Oral Biology, and Craniofacial Pain and Sleep Disorders from Tufts University, he is an accomplished author and educator with extensive experience in surgical laser dentistry.

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Track 6: Mitigating Miserabl-odontics – Tools and Techniques for Easier, Happier Dentistry

Speaker: Dr. Ankur Gupta
Format: Lecture | AGD Subject Code: 149 – Ergonomics

Course Description:
Dentistry is rewarding but demanding. Long hours, poor posture, and high stress take a toll on even the best clinicians. In this engaging, practical lecture, Dr. Gupta shares ergonomic strategies, workflow improvements, and mindset shifts that make dentistry easier, more predictable, and more enjoyable.

Learning Objectives:

• Implement ergonomic practices that protect posture and longevity.

• Use technologies that simplify procedures and reduce fatigue.

• Establish realistic systems to prevent burnout.

• Apply mindfulness and daily habits to enhance well-being.