2023 Pacific Dental Conference
Location: Vancouver, BC, Canada
The Pacific Dental Conference (PDC) is an annual dental conference held in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. It is one of the largest dental conferences in North America and attracts dental professionals from across Canada, the United States, and internationally. I have been attending the PDC routinely each year since my graduation in 2001 (it helps that my hometown, Calgary, is only a 1.5h flight to Vancouver).
Initially I would go to simply get sufficient CE credits to maintain licensure. Now, I go to see what is new, network with vendors and colleagues and decide on more extensive programs and training to take. The conference features a comprehensive program that includes lectures, hands-on workshops, and exhibits showcasing the latest advancements in dentistry. It covers a wide range of topics, including clinical techniques, practice management, dental technology, and emerging trends in the dental industry.
This year there seemed to be a focus on digital scanning and 3D printing. While we are on the rising cusp of this technology, there is still a lot of pioneering and work to be done in this field. While I have a 3D printer (Formlabs 3B+), I am always interested to see what other vendors are offering. I’m with Dr. Galler and Dr. Coachman that 3D printing will be the future and will replace 3D milling at some point. Renowned speakers (such as Dr. John Kois) and experts in various fields of dentistry deliver informative and engaging presentations, sharing their expertise and insights.
There are also a number of show specials for clinic owners and associates alike (from composite to loupes). I think it is important to prescreen what you are looking for before going. I always have lists before I go so that I have less to figure out at the show where it can be confusing and bad impulse decisions are made. Nevertheless, there are sometimes things that I will try as it is a samples heaven.
The Pacific Dental Conference is known for its inclusive and collaborative atmosphere, fostering a sense of community among dental professionals. It provides a forum for sharing experiences, discussing challenges, and exploring innovative solutions in the dental field.
Distractions: Mott 32 at The Paradox Hotel (make sure to reserve either a duck or king crab or both if you want the full experience). This place is not for the faint of heart when it comes to the bill but the ambience and having great company to boot is what it is all about. You only live once to enjoy as much King Crab as you can (and this place dials it up right!). The runner up for King Crab in Vancouver… Sun Sui Wah in Richmond (had been going there for many years until the pandemic).
