Inspiration, celebration take center stage at SmileCon

Three events will help shape the SmileCon 2025 experience: Opening Session, Friday Night Fest and the Dental Central tailgate. Each offers attendees a unique way to connect, reflect and celebrate the dental profession.

The excitement will begin with Opening Session Oct. 23 at 8 a.m., where attendees will gather for a morning of inspiration and community. This year’s keynote speaker, Brett Culp, brings his experience as a filmmaker, social entrepreneur and storyteller to the SmileCon stage. Mr. Culp’s work, which has been featured on Netflix, Hulu and Amazon Prime, focuses on the power of collaboration and authentic connection to spark change.

Hosting the session is ArNelle Wright, D.M.D., a general dentist, dental industry leader and co-host of the Dental Sound Bites podcast. Widely recognized for her leadership within organized dentistry, Dr. Wright will help guide the program as ADA President Brett Kessler, D.D.S., and President-elect Dr. Richard Rosato, D.M.D., offer reflections on the year’s achievements. The session is included for all SmileCon pass holders, including one- and two-day passes covering Thursday.

On Oct. 24, the energy will shift to celebration with the sold-out Friday Night Fest at the National Building Museum from 7 -9 p.m. Attendees can explore one of Washington, D.C.’s architectural landmarks while enjoying live music, light bites, desserts and drinks. Docents will be onsite to lead guided tours through the museum’s galleries, and a special New Dentist Lounge offers early-career professionals and dental students a dedicated space to network and unwind.

Before the meeting comes to a close, attendees will be able to celebrate the connections they made at a laid-back, college-style tailgate Oct. 25 in Dental Central from noon to 1:30 p.m. Open to all pass holders with Saturday access, the tailgate will feature big-screen college football games, snack foods, drinks and games.

For more information, visit ADA.org/SmileCon.