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Dental Digest
2026 First Quarter
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A Message to Our LADS Community
Greetings. As we closed the first quarter of 2026, I'm glad to announce that our in-person CE meetings have been a true success. The feedback from the members and colleagues have been positive. For the most part, everyone is glad to be back in-person, to talk and socialize with colleagues: old and new, to enjoy the delicious food (courtesy of IMAN Cultural Center), and to learn from our incredible sponsors. As the number of the attendees increase, our sponsors are more motivated to participate in our gatherings.
Our webinars have also been fully utilized by members and non-members.
During the first quarter, I had the privilege of attending "Impressions Day" at the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC, where I met candidates who are interested in applying to Dental School. Through LADS representation, several of the candidates approached me and have already visited my office as the "intern of the day". I highly encourage all our members to open the doors to our future candidates and let us know if you would be interested in being a mentor.
LADS also hosted social meetings where it was very well-received and attended.
LADS and LADS Foundation presented Talar Kevorkian a well deserved dental student at USC with a scholarship in the amount of $5,000.00.
I am grateful to my board for approving to have all the in-person lectures for free for our members for this calendar year, and I look forward to seeing all of our members attend our meetings. I encourage our members to bring guests and encourage more colleagues to join LADS.
Our next meeting will be on April 22. Presenter: Dr. Alon Frydman. Topic: Responsibilities and Requirements of Prescribing Schedule II Opioid Drugs.
I look forward to meeting every one of you colleagues in the near future in one of or all of our events.
With appreciation,
Parvaz Mizrahi, DDS, MPH
President, Los Angeles Dental Society
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LADS Board Retreat
The LADS Board gathered for a focused and productive retreat to reflect, collaborate, and plan for the year ahead. Set in a welcoming environment, the retreat provided an opportunity to align priorities and strengthen leadership connections.
We’re energized by the conversations and excited about what’s ahead for our members and the Los Angeles dental community.
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Oral Surgery: Real Day-to-Day Cases
LADS kicked off the year with an engaging clinical CE at the IMAN Cultural Center, focused on real-world oral surgery cases. Led by LADS President Dr. Parvaz Mizrahi, the session encouraged thoughtful discussion around treatment planning, outcomes, and alternative approaches.
Thank you to our partners at the Iranian American Dental Association and to our sponsors for supporting a valuable evening of practical learning.
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California Dental Practice Act & Infection Control Webinar
This essential CE webinar brought together dental professionals for a comprehensive review of the Dental Practice Act, OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens, and Aerosol Transmissible Diseases.
With expert guidance and collaboration from partner dental societies, attendees gained practical insights to support compliance and maintain safe, effective practices.
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CPR/BLS Certification Course
LADS continued its commitment to patient safety with a hands-on CPR/BLS certification course. Attendees strengthened critical, life-saving skills in a practical training environment designed to build confidence and preparedness.
Thank you to our instructor and all participants for prioritizing safety in patient care.
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Celebrating Leadership Across Los Angeles
LADS was proud to join WLADS and SFVDS in celebrating their 2026 Presidential Installations.
Congratulations to 2026 Presidents Dr. Shukan Kanuga (SFVDS) and Dr. Chris Acone (WLADS). Moments like these reflect the strength of our dental community and the impact of working together in support of our profession.
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USC Business Symposium Vendor Fair
LADS was proud to participate in the USC Business Symposium Vendor Fair, connecting with dental students and engaging in conversations about the realities of dental practice and career development.
Events like this strengthen our connection to the next generation of dentists and reinforce our role in supporting their journey into the profession.
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Cancer Patients in Your Office: Oral Care of Cancer Survivors
This impactful CE program explored the evolving role of dental professionals in caring for cancer survivors. Dr. Joel Epstein delivered a thoughtful and practical presentation addressing the oral health needs of patients across the cancer continuum.
We’re grateful to all who joined us for an evening of meaningful learning and collaboration.
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Radiation Safety Certification Course
LADS hosted another well-attended Radiation Safety course, helping dental professionals stay compliant while reinforcing best practices in patient and team safety.
Thank you to our instructor for delivering clear, practical guidance and to all attendees for their continued commitment to excellence in care.
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Harassment Prevention Training Webinar
This important webinar provided dental professionals with practical tools to create safe, respectful workplaces while meeting California compliance requirements.
We appreciate our expert speaker and partners for delivering an engaging, real-world session that supports both teams and practices.
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Give Kids a Smile
LADS was proud to participate in Give Kids a Smile, bringing oral health education and resources to children in the community. In partnership with the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC, the event helped create brighter, healthier smiles.
Thank you to everyone who contributed their time and care to this meaningful day of service.
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Historic Downtown LA Walking Tour
LADS board members enjoyed a unique opportunity to explore Historic Downtown Los Angeles through a guided walking tour. The experience offered insight into the city’s architectural and cultural landmarks while creating space for connection outside the clinical setting.
We look forward to hosting more community-building experiences like this in the future.
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Refunds and Dismissal Webinar
This practical webinar addressed key aspects of patient communication, refunds, and risk management in dental practice. Attendees gained actionable strategies to navigate challenging scenarios with clarity and professionalism.
Thank you to our speaker and partners for delivering another valuable member resource.
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Impressions Day 2026
LADS was proud to support Impressions Day at the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC, a program designed to inspire and guide future dental professionals. The event brought together students, educators, and leaders for a day of mentorship, learning, and connection.
We’re grateful to be part of initiatives that invest in the future of dentistry.
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Dental Networking Mixer
LADS members gathered for an evening of connection and conversation at our Dental Networking Mixer. The event created space for colleagues across all career stages to share insights, build relationships, and strengthen community ties.
Thank you to everyone who joined us and to our sponsors for making the evening possible.
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Osteonecrosis of the Jaw: Clinical Relevance and Management
LADS closed the quarter with a strong clinical CE program focused on osteonecrosis of the jaw. Dr. Rebecca Dayanim delivered an insightful presentation on managing complex cases with confidence and clarity.
We appreciate our partners, sponsors, and attendees for contributing to a meaningful and well-attended event.
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USC Friends of Dentistry Scholarship Dinner
LADS was proud to attend the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC’s Friends of Dentistry Scholarship Dinner, celebrating student achievement and the future of dentistry.
We were honored to recognize Talar Kevorkian, recipient of the LADS Foundation Student Leadership Scholarship.
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Welcome New Members!
LADS proudly welcomes our newest members. We are thrilled to have you join our growing community of dedicated dental professional and look forward to supporting your journey, sharing resources, and seeing you at upcoming events.
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Sara Aghayan, DDS
UCSF School of Dentistry, 2021
NYU College of Dentistry, Dental Anesthesiology, 2024
Namrata Arora, DDS
UCLA School of Dentistry, 2014
Bralipisut Asadamongkol, DDS
Loma Linda University School of Dentistry, 2019
Sahar Baradaran, DDS
International, 2011
Deepthi Devireddy, DDS
Indiana University School of Dentistry, 2024
UCSF School of Dentistry, General, 2025
Marlene Gadano, DDS
UCLA School of Dentistry, 2023
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Anibal Gonzalez Escalante, DMD
University of Puerto Rico School of Dental Medicine, 2023
Connie Hong, DDS
Loma Linda University School of Dentistry, 2021
Grace Kim, DDS
University of Buffalo School of Dental Medicine, 2025
Sarah Kim, DMD
Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry, 2022
Priya Patel, DMD
Western University of Health Sciences College of Dental Medicine, 2024
Ji Hyun Shim, DDS
NYU College of Dentistry, Dental Anesthesiology, 2020
| | Gorgeous New Beverly Hills/Bedford Drive office to share | Gorgeous newly built office to share/lease. Located on Bedford Drive, 1st floor... MORE INFORMATION | | I have 2 lightly used autoclaves. They do not have printers. In good working order... MORE INFORMATION | | |
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Health & Wellness
Substance Use Disorder amongst the general population is 10-15%. Amongst Health Care Professionals, recent studies have shown this figure to be up to 5 times higher! If you know of any fellow dentist or staff member struggling, please reach out for confidential assistance.
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Steven Goldy, DDS
Chair: Southern California Regional
Wellness Committee
Smgdds@aol.com
310-487-5040
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