MDPA26 - Driving Change Together
Description
Join us at MDPA26!
An exciting in-person event at Rydges World Square Hotel you don't want to miss! MDPA26 is your opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, learn from industry experts, and expand your professional network.
Get ready for a day filled with insightful sessions, engaging discussions, and valuable networking opportunities. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, MDPA26 has something for everyone.
Don't miss out on this chance to be part of a vibrant community of professionals passionate about making a difference. Secure your spot now for MDPA26!
Day 1 - Friday Workshops | Sponsored by Colgate
Sensory Profiling Workshop: "More than a mouth: Using individual sensory profiles to improve dental visits for neurodivergent children".
Explore the power of sensory profiling to better understand and support young patients during dental visits.
Cognitive Decline & Dementia Workshop: "More than a diagnosis: Understanding cognitive decline to improve dental care for patients with dementia”.
Gain insights into managing cognitive decline through a deeper understanding of the neurodegenerative disease.
Complimentary Product Workshop - Fluoride Management Update: Self Use & Professionally Applied with Amelia Seselja of Colgate: An interactive workshop and discussion with Colgate’s Scientific Affairs Manager to discuss the latest guidelines for fluoride use. The fluoride landscape is constantly evolving, and this event is a fantastic opportunity to discuss the latest research, guidelines and evidence-based practice, as well as discuss products hand.
Day 2 - Full Day lectures, Trade expo, and Networking drinks.
Agenda
- 9:00 am - 11:30 am
DAY 1 - Friday 24/07/26 - Workshop 1: Sensory Profiling - "More than a mouth: Using individual sensory profiles to improve dental visits for neurodivergent children".
PRESENTER: Georgina Ahrens Georgina will present a practical and engaging workshop for oral health clinicians exploring sensory processing and sensory profiling in young children, including those who are neurodivergent. She will introduce key sensory concepts, highlight how sensory differences impact a child’s experience during dental care, and provide simple, evidence-informed strategies to support regulation, comfort, and cooperation in dental appointments. Attendees will also gain insight into their own sensory profiles and how their sensory preferences and responses may influence interactions with children and families in a clinical setting. Georgina will also share a selection of practical sensory tools, toys, books, fidgets, and equipment - allowing participants to see examples of child-friendly resources that can support regulation and more positive dental experiences. This session is designed to equip Mobile Dental Providers Australia attendees with a deeper understanding of sensory needs and how to create more child-centred, sensory-considerate dental environments.
- 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
DAY 1 - Friday 24/07/26 Complimentary Product Workshop - Fluoride Management Update: Self Use & Professionally Applied
This is a complimentary session with Amelia Seselja of Colgate. An interactive workshop and discussion with Colgate’s Scientific Affairs Manager to discuss the latest guidelines for fluoride use. The fluoride landscape is constantly evolving, and this event is a fantastic opportunity to discuss the latest research, guidelines and evidence-based practice, as well as discuss products hand.
- 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm
DAY 1 - Friday 24/07/26 Workshop 2: Cognitive Decline & Dementia Workshop: "More than a diagnosis: Understanding cognitive decline to improve dental care for patients with dementia".
PRESENTER: Dr Avanti Karve and Dr Ming Loh Through a medical lens, this workshop will unpack what is happening in the brain, how cognition deteriorates over time, and what this means for decision-making capacity, consent, pain expression, oral hygiene tolerance, swallowing, nutrition, and treatment planning. Participants will learn what to expect at each stage of the disease trajectory, from early subtle changes to advanced cognitive and physical decline and how oral health care must adapt accordingly. The session also focuses on real-world clinical management in aged care and community settings, highlighting the oral health professional’s role within a multidisciplinary team alongside GPs, nurses, speech pathologists, dietitians, occupational therapists, and carers. Practical strategies will be discussed for working collaboratively with family members and next of kin, navigating consent and substitute decision-making, and delivering trauma-informed, dignity-preserving care to one of our most vulnerable populations. This workshop is designed to build confidence, clinical insight, and compassion, empowering participants to provide safe, ethical, and person-centred oral health care across the full dementia journey.
- 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
DAY 2 - Saturday 25/07/26 - Conference, Trade & Networking
Speakers: Dr Amanda Phoon Nguyen - Early Detection Saves Lives: Practical Oral Cancer Examination, Lesion Recognition and What Happens Next Dr Geraldine Moses- What's new in TG Oral and dental, especially regarding managing patients with cancer. Dr Padma Gadiyar - AI and the use of AI in dentistry Dr Jivan Rakesh - Spit Happens: The Oral and Systemic Impact of Dry Mouth Conditions Dr Nada Karnib - Dysphagia, safe swallowing strategies, and the oral–pharyngeal mechanisms that influence both nutrition and communication. Trade Expo Networking Drinks
MDPA26 Recognition Award
At MDPA26, we celebrate the game changers, quiet achievers, and bold innovators shaping the future of mobile dentistry. From those pushing boundaries to those uplifting communities or making meaningful impact behind the scenes. This is your opportunity to recognise the people who truly make a difference. With our brand partner, MIMS, the MDPA26 Recognition Award honours outstanding contributions to mobile dentistry across Australia. This award goes beyond clinical excellence, celebrating those driving our profession forward through innovation, compassion, education, advocacy, and leadership. We’re shining a spotlight on individuals who go above and beyond, creating change, elevating care, and supporting others across the mobile dentistry community. Nominate a colleague or yourself who embodies what MDPA stands for: passion, leadership, and lasting impact in mobile dental care. Eligibility Open to all professionals working in or supporting the mobile dental space (clinicians, educators, practice owners, technicians, administrators, students, etc.) Individuals may nominate someone else or themselves Nominees must be based in Australia or New Zealand Nomination Criteria Nominees should demonstrate excellence in at least one of the following areas: Innovation & Impact – Introduced new ways of delivering mobile dental care, technology, or service models Leadership – Leading initiatives, teams, or projects that drive better oral health outcomes. Advocacy – Promoting access, equity, or awareness in underserved or vulnerable populations. Education & Mentorship – Supporting and guiding others in mobile dentistry. Community Engagement – Making a meaningful difference in the lives of patients or communities through oral health promotion that aligns with Australia's National Oral Health Plan. Nominate by submitting the form below! Nominations close 23/07/26 at 11:59pm. Nominees will be notified of their nomination via email. The winner will be announced at MDPA26 on 25/07/26. The winner will receive a full MDPA27 ticket. Nominate via this link: https://www.mobiledentalproviders.com.au/mdpaaward
Lineup
Georgina Ahrens: OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST
Georgina Ahrens is the Founder and Director of Kids World Paediatric Therapy, a leading paediatric occupational therapy practice in Sydney. With over 20 years’ experience, Georgina specialises in supporting neurodivergent children and their families through strengths-based, relationship-focused care. Georgina is a certified DIR®/Floortime™ Trainer and Assistant Faculty with the Profectum Foundation, and regularly presents to clinicians, educators and health professionals in Australia and internationally. She is known for translating developmental and sensory theory into practical, child-centred strategies that support regulation, engagement and participation across everyday environments.
Amelia Seselja: Colgate’s Scientific Affairs Manager
Amelia Seselja is the Scientific Affairs and Public Health Manager for Colgate South Pacific. Amelia holds a Bachelor of Oral Health from the University of Queensland and a Master of Business Administration from Flinders University. As an Oral Health Therapist, she has worked in a diverse range of settings including general and specialist practice, not-for-profit, corporate, and within the university setting. Amelia has a strong passion for public health, especially regarding widening access to preventative dentistry and oral health promotion.
Dr Avanti Karve: SPECIAL NEEDS SPECIALIST
Dr Avanti Karve is a dedicated advocate for her patients with special health care needs with a focus managing oral health to improve general health. Avanti completed her Bachelor of Dental Surgery with the University of Adelaide in 2003 and returned home to Sydney to become the first graduate of the Doctor of Clinical Dentistry (Special Needs Dentistry) program with the University of Sydney. She also completed a concurrent Master of Health Science in Developmental Disability (2007-2010). In addition to being the resident dentist at Sydney Adventist Hospital for inpatient and outpatient care, Avanti currently has appointments with Sydney West Local Health District (Staff Specialist- Special Needs Dentistry); NSW Developmental Disability Health Unit (Visiting Specialist) and Lakeview Private Hospital (Visiting Specialist). Avanti is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons (FRACDS) and currently serves as the President Elect of the Australia New Zealand Academy of Special Needs Dentistry (ANZASND) and on the executive of the International Association for Disability Oral Health (iADH). She is a member of the CERA Geriatric Oral Health Reference Group, Australian Society of Special Care Dentistry (ASSCID) and Australian Dental Association (ADA). As a lifelong learner, Avanti is committed to learning, teaching and research at her Alma Mater the University of Sydney. She coordinates the undergraduate and post-graduate programs in Special Needs Dentistry as a Honorary Clinical Lecturer with the University of Sydney. She lectures extensively for the University and at numerous national and international conferences.
Dr Ming Loh: VMO Geriatrician
Dr Ming Loh is a VMO Geriatrician at the Sydney Adventist Hospital and specialises in perioperative care of the elderly. Dr Loh has prior worked as clinical lead for Orthogeriatrics at Westmead hospital and has worked as a Perioperative Physician at Northern Beaches Hospital for the last 7 years. He is a former Federal Counsellor for ANZSGM (Australian and New Zealand Society for Geriatric Medicine) and has held the position of NSW State President. Ming has expertise in prehabilitation, preoperative assessments and postoperative care of the elderly. He has worked extensively in rehabilitation and specialises in healthy ageing and recovery from surgery. He was chair of the ANZSGM national guidelines in perioperative medicine and has worked with the Agency for Clinical Innovation and the Clinical Excellence Commission (NSW Health) in projects supporting perioperative care of the elderly. During his time at Westmead hospital Dr Loh provided geriatrician support to the Special Care Dentistry Unit at Westmead Hospital whereupon he became a colleague of several excellent dental clinicians
Dr Amanda Phoon Nguyen: ORAL MEDICINE SPECIALIST
Dr Amanda Phoon Nguyen is an Oral Medicine Specialist practicing in Western Australia across both private and public settings. A University of Melbourne graduate and former Royal Australian Navy Dental Officer, she completed her specialist training at the University of Western Australia. Amanda currently serves as a Consultant at Perth Children’s Hospital and holds academic appointments at UWA and Curtin University. She is actively involved in professional leadership and advocacy through several dental organisations and not-for-profit boards. Her clinical interests include oral mucosal disease, orofacial pain, temporomandibular disorders and dental sleep medicine, with a strong focus on early detection and patient-centred care.
Dr Geraldine Moses: ADJUNCT ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR
Geraldine Moses is a Doctor of Clinical pharmacy who has worked with the dental profession since the 1990’s. She was the sole provider of the ADA’s ‘Pharma-Advice’ service for 11 years. However, she is now working with a group of dental experts providing a new online advisory service called “The Dental Advice Network”. She also continues to work part-time at the Mater Public Hospital in South Brisbane and consults privately at a multidisciplinary dental practice in Brisbane. Geraldine holds the position of Adjunct Associate Professor in the Schools of Pharmacy at UQ, QUT and the Dental school at UWA. She has published over 30 peer- reviewed journal articles and with dental academic colleagues, recently published a textbook through Cambridge University Press entitled The Handbook of Dental Therapeutics. She has also been a member of the expert writing group for the Therapeutic Guidelines - Oral and Dental both 3rd and 4th editions. In 2019, Geraldine was made a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for her service to healthcare as a pharmacist.
Dr Padma Gadiyar: DENTIST, ENTREPRENEUR & DIGITAL HEALTH INNOVATOR
Dr. Padma Gadiyar is a dentist, entrepreneur, and digital health innovator with over 20 years of clinical, leadership, and business experience. She is the Founder and CEO of Smilo.ai (Oral Tech AI Pty Ltd), an AI-powered digital oral health platform focused on prevention, early detection, and integration of oral health within broader healthcare systems. Dr. Gadiyar’s work is shaped by firsthand experience in clinical practice, where she observed persistent challenges including access barriers, workforce shortages, rising costs, and fragmented care. These insights led her to focus on telehealth, AI, and digital health solutions that support practical, ethical, and scalable models of care. Her work in digital dentistry includes the development of patented AI models validated through university-led research and large-scale clinical pilots.
Dr Nada Makki-Karnib: SPEECH PATHOLOGIST
Dr Nada Makki-Karnib is the founder and principal speech pathologist at Q Speech Hub, a leading private practice in Sydney, Australia, dedicated to supporting infants, children, and adults with speech, feeding, and language challenges. With over 22 years of combined experience as a hospital biomedical scientist and speech pathologist, Nada brings a holistic, evidence-informed and airway-focussed approach to care. Her passion lies in identifying and addressing the root causes of oral dysfunction rather than treating symptoms in isolation. This has led to her special interest in Oromyofunctional Disorders (OMDs) and their impact on breathing, sleep, craniofacial growth, and communication. Her doctoral research explored the effectiveness of oromyofunctional therapy (OMT) in treating lisps in school-aged children, an area that bridges the gap between clinical practice and emerging research. Nada is an active contributor to professional education and collaborative care. She has presented nationally and internationally on topics including tethered oral tissues, sleep-disordered breathing, dentofacial development, early orthopaedic intervention, and OMT integration into clinical practice. Nada is passionate about empowering health professionals to recognise and manage oral dysfunction within a multidisciplinary, evidence-based framework that supports optimal health and development across the lifespan.
Dr Jivan Rakesh: DENTAL PRACTITIONER & SCIENTIFIC AFFAIRS MANAGER
Rakesh obtained his Bachelor of Dental Surgery from The University of Birmingham, UK, in 2000 and completed postgraduate studies in restorative dentistry at the Eastman Dental Institute, University College, London in 2004. Rakesh has owned private practices in the UK and Australia, and has over 20 years of experience in public, private, and corporate dental practice, including collaboration with dental materials manufacturers as a key opinion leader and educator, focusing on dental material science, preventive, and restorative dentistry. As the former Clinical Director for Education at a major Australian corporate dental group, Rakesh developed educational initiatives for over 800 dental practitioners nationwide. Recognised for his contributions to dental education, he was inducted as a Fellow of the Pierre Fuchard Academy in 2021. Currently, Rakesh serves as the Scientific Affairs Manager at GC Australasia, supporting the education, training, and professional development of dentists and stakeholders in specialised markets, including government, Dental Service Organisations (DSOs), and corporate groups.
Sponsors
Hotel Accommodation Exclusive Discount Rate
Make the most of your MDPA26 experience with our exclusive discounted accommodation rate at the event venue, Rydges World Square Hotel.
Enjoy the convenience of staying on-site, just steps away from all conference sessions, networking events, and social functions. Special rates are available exclusively for MDPA26 delegates for a limited time.
Secure your room early and stay where the action happens. Click the link below:
https://www.rydges.com/private-page/discounted-accommodation-rate/
MDPA Partnership with HANCA!
Join us in celebrating HANCA’s 10-year journey and help raise funds at MDPA26! Fundraising merch is available, and all proceeds go to HANCA. Help us reach higher this year!
MDPA26 delegates will have the opportunity to connect with their team, learn more about their impact, and be part of meaningful change.
Last year, together we raised over $800 for HANCA. This year, we’re setting our sights even higher. 👏
Scan the QR code and help us create impact together 💙
FAQs
- Who should attend MDPA26?
MDPA26 is designed for dentists, specialists, dental prosthetist, oral health therapists, hygienists, mobile dental practice owners and support staff.
It is also relevant for clinicians considering or transitioning into mobile dentistry.
- Is this event suitable for new mobile providers?
Yes. The program includes content for both newcomers and experienced mobile providers. We also welcome those not in mobile dentistry to get involve as all topics are appropriate to all dental practitioners.
- Will CPD hours be provided?
Yes. This event will include eligible CPD hours. A certificate of attendance will be provided after the event.
Each workshop will provide 2 hours.
Saturday will provide 5.5 hours.
- What is included in my ticket?
Day 1 - Workshop tickets include the specific workshop content, presentation and light refreshments in the form of either morning tea or afternoon tea. *please note there is no lunch provided between the two workshops.
Full day presentation (Day 2) tickets include all presentations on the 25th July, 2026. Morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea.
It also includes access to our trade display and networking drinks and canapes after the program concludes.
Your ticket includes access to all speaker sessions, the trade exhibition, networking opportunities,
- Will there be trade exhibitors?
Yes. Industry partners relevant to mobile dentistry will be exhibiting, with the trade area located in the same hall as the speaker sessions.
Keep space in your luggage for your goodies!
- Can I attend one day only?
Yes. feel free to join us for just one workshop or both workshops on day 1 of our conference. Or join us for the full day of presentations and expo.
We'd of course love for you to join us for both days and make the most of your MDPA26 experience.
- Is the event suitable for students?
Yes. Dental and oral health students are welcome, and student tickets may be available in limited
numbers.
- How do I contact the event organisers?
Please contact us at hello@mobiledentalproviders.com.au for your enquiries.
- We would like to partner with MDPA and sponsor this event. What are the steps?
We would absolutely be grateful to have you as our Event Brand Partner. Its a great opportunity to align yourself with Mobile Dental Providers and get your brand and products in front of dental professionals and decision makers.
Please reach out to us at hello@mobiledentalproviders.com.au so we can send the prospectus and arrange all needed for branding and promotion. But be quick, as there's limited numbers!
- Can we avail of a Hotel Accommodation discount?
Make the most of your MDPA26 experience with our exclusive discounted accommodation rate at the event venue, Rydges World Square Hotel.
Enjoy the convenience of staying on-site, just steps away from all conference sessions, networking events, and social functions. Special rates are available exclusively for MDPA26 delegates for a limited time.
Secure your room early and stay where the action happens. Click the link below:
https://www.rydges.com/private-page/discounted-accommodation-rate/
- I'm a full agent, can I also take advantage of the additional 10% early bird discount as well as my 20% full member discount?
Yes, get 30% off if you get your tickets in the early bird period
- I'm a starter agent or not an MDPA member, how do I become a member to get 20% off all events along with all the other benefits?
Become a Full Member on our website to avail the 20% discount promo. Click the link to access Full Membership.
Tickets for good, not greed Humanitix dedicates 100% of profits from booking fees to charity
