2026 ASO Annual Session
March 13 – 14, 2026 | Banff Springs Hotel, Banff, AB
Our Hotel Room Block is Fully Booked.
Preliminary Program
Meet Our Speakers
Dr. Chris Bonebreak Jackson
Friday, March 13, 2026, 8:30 am - 9:30 am
Sponsored by
Topic: You can’t do that with stock braces!
A digital treatment plan and custom bracket prescription can help you treat difficult cases in a way that stock brackets can’t. The power of a personalized appliance will be explored through a variety of case types including vertically challenged, surgical and canine substitution. Topics discussed will include the digital prescription submission, tips for digital treatment plan review, and treatment mechanics with a fixed digital appliance.
Learning objectives:
Benefits of a custom bracket base, custom slot Rx, and custom placement
How to fully customize all areas of a fixed appliance (slot size, how selection, and more)
Digital treatment planning concepts for the Class II div 2, extraction, canine substitution, and surgical cases
Clinical protocols to maximize treatment efficiency with a personalized prescription
Bio
Dr. Jackson received her Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from MIT, after which she parlayed a poker hobby into a five-year career as a High-Yield Bond Trader for Goldman Sachs. She then attended the Harvard School of Dental Medicine and completed
her orthodontic residency at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Following residency, she obtained funding from the National Science Foundation to investigate 3D metal printing protocols for orthodontic appliances. Today, she is adjunct faculty
at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, serves on the board of the AAO Foundation, and innovates with LightForce as Head of Clinical Affairs. She resides in Lexington, MA with her husband and three daughters.
Dr. Douglas Palaganas
Friday, March 13, 2026, 9:30 am - 10:30 am
Sponsored by
Topic:
Improving Predictability and Efficiency with Clarity™ Aligners and Clarity™ Precision Grip Attachments with an Introduction to Clarity™ Digital Bonding
Bio
Dr. Doug, as he is known to his patients, graduated from Cornell University in 1998, then from Stony Brook's Dental School in 2003 and their Orthodontic Residency in 2006. Between college and dental school, Dr. Palaganas accepted a faculty position just south of Buffalo at The Gow School, a private boarding school for boys with dyslexia, many of whom also had ADD/ADHD. This was an experience that gave Doug a daily, hands-on education dealing with challenged children, a skill which would serve him well in treating all types of patients during his orthodontic career. Since 2006 Dr. Palaganas has been practicing on Long Island and has founded/co-founded two practices, Dr. Doug Orthodontics and Great Neck Orthodontics, where he currently treats patients full time. Dr. Palaganas has been an active member of the orthodontic facebook community and has served as administrators of multiple forums and was a co-founder of the original Mother of Pearls Orthodontic Conference along with Dr. James Noble. He also enjoys advising on appliances and speaking for several orthodontic companies including Solventum. Dr. Palaganas is married to Jennifer, a periodontist who he met in dental school, and they are kept busy by their 2 children, Olivia and Christian.
Dr. Barry Benton
Friday, March 13, 2026, 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Topic: Leveraging Digital Technology and AI to Create a New Standard of Care for Your Patients
Discover how Digital Indirect Bonding and Artificial Intelligence are transforming modern orthodontics. This session explores how these powerful tools can streamline workflows, enhance precision, and deliver a more personalized patient experience. Attendees will learn practical strategies and a clear clinical workflow to improve outcomes, increase efficiency, and gain greater control in their treatment planning.
Learning objectives:
• Learn how Digital Indirect Bonding can streamline clinical systems and case outcomes.
• Learn how Artificial Intelligence can help provide a customized treatment experience for each patient.
• Learn the workflow needed to leverage Digital Indirect Bonding and Artificial Intelligence to improve clinical outcomes and gain greater clinical control.
Bio
Dr. Barry received his Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Furman University and went on to receive his Doctorate of Medical Dentistry degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
Dr. Barry continued his education at the Louisiana State University School of Dentistry, where he received his Certificate in Orthodontics and Master of Science in Dentistry. In the summer of 2016, Dr. Barry joined Dr. Benton (his father) at Designer Smiles by Benton.
Dr. Barry is board-certified and one of the youngest practicing orthodontists in the nation to be a Diplomate on the American Board of Orthodontics.
Dr. Mark Holt
Friday, March 13, 2026, 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Sponsored by
Topic:
Building Predictable Aligner Systems From Phase I to Complex Treatment Using Angel Aligner
This presentation focuses on the clinical systems required to achieve predictable outcomes in clear aligner therapy across a broad range of case types, from early interceptive (Phase I) treatment to comprehensive and complex orthodontic cases. Dr. Mark Holt will discuss diagnostic considerations, treatment sequencing, and clinical decision-making strategies that support efficiency, accuracy, and long-term stability. Emphasis will be placed on establishing repeatable workflows that allow clinicians to adapt aligner therapy to varying levels of complexity while maintaining consistent results.
Learning objectives:
• Case Selection and Treatment Planning Across Complexity Levels
• Identify key diagnostic factors that influence aligner treatment success in both early interceptive and comprehensive cases.
• System-Based Approaches to Aligner Therapy
• Understand how standardized clinical systems, including staging, attachments, and biomechanics, can improve predictability in everyday and complex aligner cases.
• Managing Deviations and Optimizing Outcomes
• Learn strategies for recognizing and addressing common challenges during aligner treatment to maintain efficiency and achieve planned outcomes.
Bio
Dr. Mark Holt grew up in Northern California and attended BYU before earning his dental degree from UCSF and completing his orthodontic residency at the University of Oklahoma. Holt Ortho has treated more than 10,000 patients with clear aligners, including over 1,000 cases using Angel Aligners. Today, nearly two-thirds of Holt Ortho patients are treated with clear aligners, with teens representing approximately 50% of those cases. Dr. Holt has also conducted studies demonstrating shorter treatment times with aligner therapy. Outside the office, he enjoys skiing, wakesurfing, and college football.
Dr. Douglas Palaganas
Friday, March 13, 2026, 9:30 am - 10:30 am
Sponsored by
Topic:
Improving Predictability and Efficiency with Clarity™ Aligners and Clarity™ Precision Grip Attachments with an Introduction to Clarity™ Digital Bonding
This program explores clinical strategies to improve predictability and treatment efficiency when using Clarity™ Aligners in combination with Clarity™ Precision Group Attachments. Attendees will learn how a custom printed attachment design and placement can enhance force delivery, improve tracking, and support more consistent treatment outcomes across a wide range of malocclusions.
The course will also introduce Clarity™ Digital Bonding, highlighting how a fully digital workflow can increase accuracy, reduce chair time, and improve bonding consistency. Through clinical insights, case examples, and workflow considerations, participants will gain practical guidance for integrating aligner biomechanics, attachment protocols, and digital bonding solutions into everyday practice
Learning objectives:
Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
1. Describe the role of Clarity™ Precision Group Attachments in improving aligner tracking, force control, and treatment predictability.
2. Explain the biomechanical principles behind precision group attachments and their impact on common tooth movements.
3. Illustrate how to leverage the benefits of the flex and force, dual aligner material system for efficiency and reduced overall staging.
4. Discuss the benefits of Clarity™ Digital Bonding, including improved accuracy, consistency, and reduced chair time.
5. Evaluate how a digital bonding workflow can be integrated into aligner treatment to streamline clinical processes and improve outcomes.
6. Apply practical strategies for incorporating Clarity™ Aligners, Precision Group Attachments, and Digital Bonding into daily orthodontic practice.
Bio
Dr. Doug, as he is known to his patients, graduated from Cornell University in 1998, then from Stony Brook's Dental School in 2003 and their Orthodontic Residency in 2006. Between college and dental school, Dr. Palaganas accepted a faculty position just south of Buffalo at The Gow School, a private boarding school for boys with dyslexia, many of whom also had ADD/ADHD. This was an experience that gave Doug a daily, hands-on education dealing with challenged children, a skill which would serve him well in treating all types of patients during his orthodontic career. Since 2006 Dr. Palaganas has been practicing on Long Island and has founded/co-founded two practices, Dr. Doug Orthodontics and Great Neck Orthodontics, where he currently treats patients full time. Dr. Palaganas has been an active member of the orthodontic facebook community and has served as administrators of multiple forums and was a co-founder of the original Mother of Pearls Orthodontic Conference along with Dr. James Noble. He also enjoys advising on appliances and speaking for several orthodontic companies including Solventum. Dr. Palaganas is married to Jennifer, a periodontist who he met in dental school, and they are kept busy by their 2 children, Olivia and Christian.
Dr. Jason Meinhardt
Friday, March 13, 2026, 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Sponsored by
Topic: Securing Smiles: Cybersecurity Essentials for the Modern Orthodontist
As technology continues to play an increasing role in modern orthodontic practice, the importance of protecting patient data and ensuring the security of digital systems has never been greater. This lecture will provide orthodontists with an overview of the current cybersecurity landscape, focusing on the unique risks and challenges that come with managing patient information in the digital age. Attendees will learn about cybersecurity threats targeting dental providers, including data breaches, ransomware, and phishing attacks. By the end of the lecture, orthodontists will have a greater understanding of the knowledge and tools needed to protect their practice from cyber threats and keep the trust of their patients in an increasingly digital world.
Bio
Dr. Meinhardt graduated from dental school and orthodontic residency at Marquette University. He owns and operates a two-location private practice located about 1 hour north of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Outside of his professional endeavors, he enjoys spending time with his wife, two children, as well as their rescue dogs. He also enjoys playing tennis, working out, attempting to golf, and enjoying live music.
Dr. Farah Kar
Friday, March 13, 2026, 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm
Sponsored by
Topic:
Yes, You Can Treat That: Invisalign® for All Case Types in the Growing Patient
Clear aligner therapy in the growing patient has expanded far beyond simple alignment, yet many clinicians remain hesitant to use Invisalign® for complex cases. This presentation demonstrates how Invisalign can be successfully used to treat a wide range of case types in growing patients, including impacted canines, Class II malocclusions, deep bites, and missing or peg laterals often through thoughtful hybrid approaches. Using real clinical cases and lessons learned along the way, attendees will gain practical strategies for case selection, staging, communication with oral surgeons, and effective use of adjuncts such as pontics, elastics, Carriere Motion Appliance, and mandibular advancement with occlusal blocks. Emphasis is placed on workflow efficiency, overcorrections, compliance management, and enhancing the patient experience. This lecture provides immediately applicable pearls to help orthodontists confidently expand their Invisalign indications in growing patients while improving predictability, efficiency, and outcomes.
Bio
Dr. Farah Kar is a proud Iranian, Canadian, American orthodontist. She attended the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry for her DDS and Master of Science degree and Certificate of Orthodontics. She is double-board certified and a Diplomat of the American Board of Orthodontics and Royal College of Dentists of Canada. Dr. Kar has been an Invisalign certified orthodontist since 2014 and an Invisalign Diamond Plus Provider who has treated over 4,000 cases. She enjoys merging her background in fine arts, architecture, and project management with practicing orthodontics efficiently and with flare! Check out Dr. Kar’s Instagram for a snapshot of her life as an orthodontist: @the.ortho.queen
Dr. Zachary Varble
Saturday, March 14, 2026, 8:30 am - 9:30 pm
Sponsored by
Topic: A Modern Practice for Modern Patients: Differentiating Your Practice with DentalMonitoring.
In a landscape where orthodontic efficiency, patient experience, and practice growth are under more pressure than ever, forward-thinking practices are turning to remote monitoring to transform the way they deliver care. In this eye-opening lecture, Dr. Zachary Varble shares the real story behind how his high-volume St. Louis practice fully integrated DentalMonitoring across aligners, braces, phase I, and observation—and why doing so unlocked the growth model he’d been searching for.
Through practical examples and transparent data, Dr. Varble details how his team re-engineered workflows, reduced in-office visits, shortened treatment times, and created new capacity without adding chairs, associates, or physical space. Attendees will learn how dynamic scheduling, SmartSTL, and proactive patient engagement reshape both aligner and fixed appliance treatment—and why these efficiencies directly fuel higher case acceptance and same-day starts.
Dr. Varble also reveals how his office reimagined the long-overlooked observation pool, building a subscription-based remote monitoring program that increases patient readiness, boosts conversion rates, and finally gives doctors a scalable solution for growth guidance.
Whether you’re evaluating remote monitoring for the first time or looking to level up your existing workflows, this session delivers tactical insights, honest lessons learned, and a clear framework for differentiating your practice in a competitive market—while giving modern patients the experience they expect.
Bio
Dr. Zachary Varble is a practicing orthodontist in St. Louis who combines hands-on clinical experience with a passion for teaching and innovation. He maintains a full-time private practice while also teaching Practice Management to orthodontic residents.
Known for his practical, real-world approach, Dr. Varble speaks on topics such as in-house aligner fabrication, Dental Monitoring, and digital workflow integration—sharing systems developed and tested in daily practice to improve efficiency, consistency, and patient care.
Shannon Patterson
Saturday, March 14, 2026, 9:30 am - 10:30 am
Sponsored by
Topic: Orthodontic Market Trends & Insights
This presentation will explain the current business state, trends and existing benchmarks of the orthodontic marketplace. Shannon will discuss the facts and trends of the evolving change our industry is experiencing so that doctor owners have the knowledge to make strategic decisions for the future of their practice. In addition to presenting up-to-date orthodontic market data, this lecture will identify the major pressures the specialty is facing. Among these changes are new technologies, consumer behaviors during economic uncertainty and consolidation in the marketplace. This presentation will provide data needed to stay competitive and make strategic decisions about the future of your practice.
Topics to be discussed in detail;
Current industry benchmarks, trends and insights
Practice modality changes
Future provider demographics
Consumer sentiment & spending behavior patterns
Patient demographic changes
Growth opportunities
Bio
Shannon Patterson, a partner with Bentson Copple Patterson & Associate, is a leading consultant in the orthodontic industry. She works with orthodontists throughout the United States regarding the business aspects of their practice and specializes in practice and career transitions. Shannon is a Kolbe Certified™ Consultant and expert in the Kolbe suite of assessments focusing on strength-based relationships. She is a member of the American Academy of Medical Management (AAMM) and currently serves as a committee member with the AAO. She is a frequent guest lecturer at AAO meetings, regional orthodontic society meetings, orthodontic resident programs, study clubs, user meetings and she contributes to numerous orthodontic journals..
Dr. Antonio Secchi
Saturday, March 14, 2026, 8:30 am - 9:30 pm
Sponsored by
Topic: Live fully. Work wisely.
Strike your balance fiercely.
Dr. Secchi is the founder of the Complete Clinical Orthodontics System™ (CCO System), which he
teaches to orthodontists not only in the USA, but throughout the world. His passion for clinical
orthodontics and commitment to education have made him a solicited lecturer at a national and
international level. Because of his extensive clinical experience, Dr. Secchi brings world-class care
to every patient he treats.
Bio
Dr. Secchi is a proud alumnus of the University of
Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, where he
received his Doctorate of Dental Medicine, Certificate in
orthodontics, and a Master of Science in oral biology.
Dr. Secchi is a Diplomate of the American Board of
Orthodontics and member of the prestigious Edward H.
Angle Society of Orthodontists. He also holds membership
in various local, national, and international dental and
orthodontic societies and was the 2016 President of the
Greater Philadelphia Society of Orthodontists.
Through his affiliation with the University of Pennsylvania,
Dr. Secchi has conducted multiple research projects aimed
at improving the quality of several orthodontic treatment
solutions. He has been published in various dental and
orthodontic peer-reviewed journals. Dr. Secchi received
the 2005 David C. Hamilton Orthodontic Research
Award from the Pennsylvania Association of Orthodontists
(PAO) and the 2010 Outstanding Teacher Award from
the Department of Orthodontics of the University of
Pennsylvania.
Registration Is Available Below!
Our Hotel Room Block is fully Sold Out!
Vendor registration is available HERE.
Sponsors
