The South Carolina Dental Hygienists’ Association 2026 Dental Hygiene Symposium brings together dental hygienists, educators, and industry partners from across the region for two days of advanced education, professional networking, and meaningful collaboration.
We are pleased to announce a new venue for 2026. The Myrtle Beach Convention Center will host this year’s Symposium as we return to Myrtle Beach this October. This premier, state-of-the-art facility offers an energizing and highly functional environment designed to enhance both learning and connection. Its central location places attendees within easy reach of exceptional dining, entertainment, and coastal experiences—creating a Symposium experience that is as rewarding outside the lecture halls as it is within them.
Why Attend?
As the role of the registered dental hygienist continues to evolve, hygienists are increasingly recognized as essential frontline healthcare providers. Through frequent patient interaction and a deep understanding of the oral-systemic connection, dental hygienists are uniquely positioned to influence overall health outcomes. Learn from nationally recognized educators who are shaping the future of dental hygiene. From evidence-based periodontal therapy and clinical innovation to infection prevention, caries management, patient communication and behavioral science. Our 2026 faculty brings practical expertise you can apply immediately in practice.
FRIDAY OCTOBER 9
Biofilm management continues to redefine periodontal care, and this immersive 6 CE-hour, full-day course will place attendees at the forefront of current science and clinical application. SCDHA is proud to welcome Dr. Lauren Kanzigg, PhD, MS, AEF, and Nicole Fortune, MBA, RDH, presenting "Biofilm Disruption Redefined: Science, Strategy, and Clinical Integration." Delivered in two parts, this comprehensive course "establishes the scientific foundation for understanding why biofilm persists and how the adjunctive therapies may support nonsurgical periodontal treatment. Participants will translate the evidence into clinical practice through guided hands-on exercises, case-based discussion, patient communication activities, and workflow planning." Sponsored by Young Innovations.
About the Speakers
Dr. Lauren Kanzigg, PhD, MS, AEF
Dr. Lauren Kanzigg is a clinical education strategist, behavioral scientist, and nationally recognized educator specializing in evidence-based prevention and periodontal care. With a PhD in behavioral science and a master’s degree in clinical research, she combines scientific research with practical clinical application to help dental professionals strengthen clinical decision-making, patient communication, and preventive care.
Known for translating complex research into engaging, actionable education, Dr. Kanzigg has led clinical education initiatives across academia and industry. Her presentations equip clinicians with the knowledge and confidence to integrate evidence-based strategies into everyday practice while improving patient outcomes.
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Nicole Fortune, MBA, RDH
Nicole Fortune, MBA, RDH is a nationally recognized speaker and practicing dental hygienist with extensive expertise in periodontics, peri-implant disease, and nonsurgical periodontal therapy. As a clinician in a busy periodontal practice, she remains at the forefront of emerging technologies and advanced preventive care, holding certifications in multiple dental laser systems and periodontal endoscopy.
Recognized as Vermont’s Dental Hygienist of the Year, Nicole is passionate about helping dental professionals apply the latest evidence-based techniques to improve clinical outcomes and elevate patient care.
LUNCH AND LEARN, FRIDAY
Friday’s luncheon program will feature Kayla Rains, BSDH, RDH, presenting "Inside an Employee-Owned DSO." This engaging session explores the realities behind Dental Support Organizations, including current industry trends, professional growth pathways, emerging technologies, safety protocols, and the evolving role of community engagement in modern dental practice. No CE credit awarded for this presentation.
EXHIBIT HALL SELF-GUIDED PRODUCTS AND TECHNOLOGY CE -
Friday will also feature the popular Exhibitor Hall CE (1 CE credit)—a self-guided, interactive experience showcasing the latest innovations in products, technology, and clinical solutions designed for immediate integration into daily practice. Complete the Exhibit Hall activities during Friday's exhibit times to earn 1 CE credit.
SATURDAY OCTOBER 10
On Saturday morning, we are excited to welcome Ryan Rutar, RDH, MAM, to his first SCDHA Dental Hygiene Symposium. Known for his dynamic approach to communication and patient-centered care, Ryan brings a powerful focus to the human side of clinical practice. He will also provide a practical refresher on fluoride therapy, equipping attendees with confident, evidence-based communication strategies for one of dentistry’s most frequently misunderstood preventive tools.
In his three-hour morning session, Ryan will present
"Managing Anxiety Within Ourselves and Our Patients" 1 CEU
Explore the impact anxiety has on both the dental team and the patient experience. Through practical communication strategies and real-world clinical scenarios, attendees will learn to recognize different parts of the brain responsible for anxiety, identify different medications and their effects to improve, compliement or interfere with anxiety, and techniques to reduce stress, build trust and create a more positve enviroment for everyone in the operatory.
"Smile with Pride: Transforming Health for Gender Diverse Individuals" 1 CEU
Providing inclusive patient-centered care begins with understanding the unique needs and experiences of every individual. This course offers practical guidance for treating the oral health needs of gender diverse individuals, discerning the difference between gender spectrum and sexual orientation, identifty oral and health disparities across the gender spectrum, and recognize commonly used medications for HIV and HIV prevention.
"Fluoride: Friend, Foe, or Just Misunderstood?" 1 CEU
Fluoride remains one of the most effective preventative tools in dentistry, yet misinformation continues to challenge patient acceptance. This evidence-based course reviews current research, addresses common myths, and discusses different applications and strategies for working synergistically within diverse oral enviroments.
About the Speaker
Ryan D. Rutar, RDH, MAM
Ryan D. Rutar, RDH, MAM is the CEO and Co-Founder of Pearly White Prevention, LLC, where he partners with dental practices to strengthen collaboration between dentists and hygienists while helping teams elevate patient care. In addition to consulting nationally, Ryan continues to practice clinically as both a dental hygienist and hygiene manager, giving him real-world insight into today’s practice challenges.
Known for his engaging and practical teaching style, Ryan empowers dental professionals with strategies that improve communication, leadership, efficiency, and clinical excellence while helping hygienists maximize their impact within the practice.
For Saturday's afternoon session, attendee favorite Karen Gregory, RN, CDIPC, returns to the 2026 Symposium following highly requested past appearances. Renowned for her high-energy delivery and clinically applicable takeaways, If you have experienced her courses before, you already know the level of engagement she brings- and if not, you are in for an exceptional learning experience. Sponsored by Pro Edge
"Safety Stuff That Matters! OSHA + Infection Control Review" (2 CE).
Stay current on the latest OSHA and Infection Control recommendations through an engaging review of the regulations and best practices that impact dental teams every day.
"When You Can't Walk Away: Identifying Human Trafficking" (1 CE).
A critical and impactful session for today’s healthcare environment. Human trafficking can affect individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and communities - including those seeking routine healthcare, This important course helps dental professionals recognize potential indicators of human trafficking, respond appropriately within their professional role, and understand reporting considerations while providing compassionate, trauma-informed care.
About the Speaker
Karen Gregory, RN, CDIPC®
Karen Gregory is a nationally recognized speaker, consultant, and registered nurse specializing in dental infection prevention and control. Certified in Dental Infection Prevention and Control® (CDIPC®), she is known for transforming complex regulations into engaging, practical education that dental teams can immediately apply in practice.
A former Board member of the Association for Dental Safety (formerly OSAP), Karen has helped shape national infection control education, including contributing to the updated If Saliva Were Red training resource. Her presentations provide evidence-based guidance that helps dental professionals strengthen compliance, improve patient safety, and confidently navigate today’s evolving regulatory environment.
LUNCH AND LEARN, SATURDAY
Returning for Saturday’s lunch-and-learn session is Amy Holleman, Executive Director of the South Carolina Board of Dentistry. Her Board of Dentistry Update (1 CE) has become a Symposium staple, offering timely insight into regulatory changes, Board initiatives, and issues shaping dental practice across South Carolina. This interactive session also provides attendees the opportunity to clarify common areas of confusion and engage directly with the state’s regulatory authority. (1 CEU)
Included in your registration fee:
- Full access to all continuing education sessions on your registered day(s)
- Digital CE certificates available for download and printing (not available to student and guest registrations)
- CE credit reporting to CE Broker ( SOUTH CAROLINA LICENSEES)
- Breakfast, refreshment breaks, and lunch
- Access to the Exhibitor Hall and featured experiences
- Meaningful networking with dental hygienists, educators, and industry partners from across the region
Complete hotel information available on the SCDHA website.
