How a Specialty Dentist Can Plan a Successful Continuing Education Event for Referring Dentists

by Olivia Wann, JD

Specialty dentists such as oral surgeons, periodontists, orthodontists, and endodontists depend heavily on relationships with general dentists who refer patients for treatment. Hosting a continuing education (CE) event is one of the most effective ways to strengthen those relationships while providing genuine value to the referring community. A well-planned CE program positions the specialist as a trusted resource, encourages collaboration, and keeps colleagues informed about evolving clinical techniques.

In this episode, we interviewed Lucy Barone, Practice Administrator, about how she launched their study group and recent seminar events. 

This article is a practical roadmap for planning a successful CE event for referring dentists.

1. Start With a Clear Educational Objective

The most successful CE events focus on practical topics that general dentists encounter regularly but may want deeper guidance on. Specialists should select subjects that improve patient outcomes and clarify when referrals are appropriate.

The goal is not to “market” your specialty practice but to educate colleagues in a way that builds trust and collaboration.

Modern Practice Solutions has been engaged for CE events on topics such as:

• OSHA compliance
• HIPAA compliance and cybersecurity
• Chemical Dependency and Opioid Prescription Writing
• Ethics in Dentistry
• Legal Aspects of Dentistry
• HR Management (to include Sexual Harassment)

2. Understand CE Requirements

If you want the event to offer formal CE credits, you must work with an accredited CE provider.

The speaker may offer CE through their organization. For example, Modern Practice Solutions is an approved PACE provider through the Academy of General Dentistry.  If the meeting planner wishes to provide CE, they may apply for PACE approval: https://www.agd.org/education/learn/find-a-pace-provider/pace/apply-for-pace-approval as well as the American Dental Association’s CERP program.

3. Select a Venue

The venue should feel professional but comfortable. Many specialists host CE events at:

• Restaurants with private meeting rooms
• Hotels with conference facilities
• The specialist’s training center at their office

Lucy provided an image of her in-house meeting room for their small study groups.  The tables can be moved to support a conference style setup (rectangle) or classroom style set up. 

Lucy explained how they rented a country club for their larger meetings for the referring dentists and their teams.

Whether it’s a small event or a large seminar, providing a delicious meal shows your appreciation for your referral community, to include dentists and staff members.

4. Provide Valuable Educational Content

The credibility of the event depends on the quality of the education.

Choose an engaging presenter with qualifications. Be sure the content aligns with your objectives, perhaps screening their slides prior to the event.   

We have served as presenters over the last 25 years for specialty dentists and we have had the privilege to watch the audience grow year to year with the program participants knowing they will receive valuable educational content.

5. Build a Long-Term Education Strategy

With high quality programs delivered, the specialty dentist will become a trusted resource for dentists interested in CE. Year to year, your referring dentists will look forward to attending your programs, networking with other dentists and enjoying ongoing collaboration with your practice.

A well-planned CE event does more than provide CE, it builds a network of dental professionals committed to delivering the highest standard of dental care.