Georgia's dental community offers exceptional opportunities for continuing education, professional development, and networking in 2026. From the nation's largest dental meeting to intimate district gatherings, these events provide valuable CE credits and business insights. For practice owners attending conferences, consider how Arini's AI receptionist can ensure you never miss patient calls while you're away learning new strategies to grow your practice.

Key Takeaways

• Hinman Dental Meeting (March 12-14) remains the largest dental event in Georgia with 20,000+ attendees
• GDA Annual Convention moves to coastal Jekyll Island (July 2-4) with Fourth of July fireworks
• FREE student registration available for Hinman, making it accessible for future dental professionals
• 15+ verified events span clinical CE, practice management, research, and charitable care
• Multiple geographic hubs include Atlanta, Augusta, Jekyll Island, and regional districts statewide

1. Thomas P. Hinman Dental Meeting (113th Annual)

The Hinman Dental Meeting celebrates its 113th anniversary in 2026 as the largest dental gathering in Georgia, attracting over 20,000 dental professionals from across the nation. This non-profit event has donated more than $11 million to dental education over its 112-year history.

Event Focus

The 2026 meeting offers comprehensive continuing education across all dental specialties, with emphasis on clinical excellence, emerging technologies, and practice management strategies. The event serves as a hub for networking and professional development for the entire dental team.

Key Features

• 600+ hours of CE credits available
• 200+ lectures across all dental specialties
• 50+ hands-on workshops
• Practice management and emerging technology tracks
• Expansive exhibit hall with 400+ exhibitors
• FREE registration for students
• Early registration discounts through February 12

Event Details

• Location: Georgia World Congress Center, 285 Andrew Young International Boulevard NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
• Cost: FREE for students; member discounts available

Logistics

• MARTA accessible via Blue/Green lines to GWCC/CNN Center
• Parking: $20-30/day in GWCC parking decks
• Hotel booking recommended 6+ months in advance
• Contact: (404) 231-1663 

Target Audience

• Dentists across all specialties
• Dental hygienists and assistants
• Dental students and residents
• Practice managers and administrative staff
• Dental industry professionals

2. Georgia Dental Association Annual Convention & Expo

The GDA Annual Convention transforms into a coastal retreat in 2026, combining professional development with family-friendly vacation activities on Jekyll Island.

Event Focus

This coastal convention merges cutting-edge clinical education with practice management insights, all set against the backdrop of Georgia's beautiful barrier islands. The Fourth of July weekend timing allows for extended family vacation opportunities.

Key Features

• Cutting-edge clinical education sessions
• Practice management and team development tracks
• Latest dental technologies showcase
• Networking with Georgia's dental community
• Free Fourth of July fireworks show
• Beach access and family attractions nearby

Event Details

• Dates: July 2026 (Fourth of July weekend)
• Location: Jekyll Island Convention Center, 75 Beachview Drive North, Jekyll Island, GA 31527
• Cost: Registration starts at $599; membership discounts available

Travel Considerations

• 1.5 hours from Jacksonville (JAX) or Savannah (SAV) airports
• Multiple resort accommodations on Jekyll Island
• Golf courses and family attractions nearby
• Contact: (404) 636-7553 

Target Audience

• GDA member dentists and their families
• Dental teams seeking CE credits
• Professionals interested in coastal networking
• Practice owners exploring new technologies

3. Georgia Dental Hygienists' Association Annual Conference (97th)

The GDHA Annual Conference celebrates nearly a century of service to Georgia's dental hygienists with comprehensive continuing education and professional networking.

Event Focus

The 97th annual conference provides hygienists with specialized continuing education, leadership development, and professional advancement opportunities. The event includes the installation of new GDHA leadership and critical business meetings.

Key Features

• Multiple CE hours specifically for hygienists
• Business meeting and officer installation (Saturday, Sept 19)
• Vendor exhibits showcasing latest hygiene products
• Networking events and professional development sessions
• Installation of new GDHA leadership

Event Details

• Dates: September 17-19, 2026
• Location: Sonesta Atlanta Northwest, 6345 Powers Ferry Road NW, Atlanta, GA 30339
• Cost: Member vs. non-member pricing (TBA)

Location Benefits

• Near Cumberland/Galleria shopping area
• Multiple restaurant options within walking distance
• Hotel parking available
• Easy access from I-75 and I-285

Target Audience

• Licensed dental hygienists in Georgia
• Dental hygiene students
• Practice managers overseeing hygiene departments
• Vendors serving dental hygiene professionals

4. Southeastern Dental Research Symposium (36th Annual)

The Southeastern Dental Research Symposium brings together dental researchers, students, and faculty for scientific presentations and evidence-based dentistry discussions.

Event Focus

This research-focused symposium emphasizes scientific presentations, evidence-based dentistry, and emerging research in dental and oral health. The event is funded by NIDCR grant U01DE033242 and provides a platform for student research competitions.

Key Features

• Dental and oral health research presentations
• Maxillofacial and head & neck research sessions
• Clinical innovations and evidence-based dentistry
• Student poster competitions and mentorship opportunities
• Concurrent CE event for clinical credits
• Student research awards and recognition

Event Details

• Date: April 17, 2026
• Location: Dental College of Georgia, 1430 John Wesley Gilbert Drive, Augusta, GA 30912
• Cost: FREE for presenters and attendees

Additional Information

• Campus parking available
• No registration fee
• Contact: (706) 721-1420 

Target Audience

• Dental researchers and faculty
• Dental students presenting research
• Evidence-based dentistry practitioners
• Academic dental professionals

5. GDA LAW Day (Legislative Advocacy & Wellness)

GDA LAW Day provides Georgia dental professionals with direct advocacy experience at the state capitol, influencing legislation that affects the dental profession.

Event Focus

LAW Day combines legislative advocacy with professional development, allowing dentists to directly engage with lawmakers on issues affecting the dental profession. According to the Georgia Legislature website, dental professionals can influence healthcare policy through direct constituent engagement.

Key Features

• Morning check-in and legislative recognition
• Guided Capitol tours
• Direct meetings with state lawmakers
• Networking lunch with GDA leadership
• Afternoon legislative committee meetings
• Advocacy and professional development credits (not clinical CE)

Event Details

• Time: 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM EST
• Location: Georgia State Capitol, 206 Washington Street SW, Atlanta, GA 30334
• Cost: Typically included with GDA membership

Logistics

• Business attire recommended
• Public parking garages nearby
• Contact: (404) 636-7553

Target Audience

• GDA members interested in advocacy
• Dentists concerned about legislative issues
• Practice owners affected by regulatory changes
• Future dental leaders

6. Georgia Mission of Mercy

The Georgia Mission of Mercy provides free dental care to underserved Georgians while offering volunteer opportunities for dental professionals.

Event Focus

This charitable dental event addresses oral health disparities by providing free dental services to hundreds of underserved patients. Volunteers gain community service experience while earning CE credits.

Key Features

• Extractions and emergency care
• Fillings and restorative services
• Cleanings and preventive care
• Serves hundreds of patients annually
• CE credits available for volunteers
• Community service experience

Event Details

• Dates: April 2026
• Location: Georgia (specific venue TBA)
• Cost: FREE for patients; volunteer opportunity for professionals

Volunteer Benefits

• Professional networking with charitable dentists
• Meaningful community impact
• Contact: (404) 636-7553

Target Audience

• Dentists interested in charitable care
• Dental hygienists and assistants
• Dental students seeking service experience
• Underserved Georgia residents needing care

7. GDA PAC Golf Tournament

The GDA PAC Golf Tournament combines networking with fundraising for the Georgia Dental Association Political Action Committee.

Event Focus

This annual golf tournament raises funds for the GDA Political Action Committee while providing informal networking opportunities. The scenic Callaway Gardens location offers a relaxed setting for professional connections.

Key Features

• Championship golf at Lake View Course
• 1st/2nd/3rd place team awards
• Longest Drive competition
• Closest to the Pin contest
• Awards reception with open bar and light bites
• Hosted by GDA leadership

Event Schedule

• 12:30-1:00 PM: Check-in
• 1:00 PM: Shotgun start
• 4:00 PM: Approximate finish
• 4:00-5:00 PM: Awards reception

Event Details

• Date: May 2026
• Time: 12:30 PM - 5:00 PM EDT
• Location: Callaway Gardens, Pine Mountain, GA
• Cost: $200/person or $600/team

Target Audience

• Dentists who enjoy golf
• GDA members supporting political advocacy
• Practice owners networking with peers
• Dental industry partners

8. GDA President's Trip - Iceland

The GDA President's Trip offers unique networking opportunities in an international setting, combining professional community building with adventure travel.

Event Focus

This exclusive week-long trip to Iceland combines professional networking with cultural experiences and natural wonders. Hosted by GDA President Peter and Tami Shatz, the trip offers intimate networking in a stunning setting.

Key Features

• Black sand beaches exploration
• Waterfall tours and hot springs
• Whale watching excursions
• Northern Lights viewing opportunities
• Cultural experiences and networking
• Luxury accommodations at The Reykjavik EDITION Hotel

Event Details

• Dates: November 9-15, 2026 (7 days)
• Location: Reykjavik, Iceland
• Cost: Package pricing TBA (secure spot early - limited availability)

Host Information

• Hosted by GDA President Peter and Tami Shatz
• Open to GDA members, families, and guests
• Contact: (404) 636-7553

Target Audience

• GDA members seeking international networking
• Dentists interested in adventure travel
• Dental couples and families
• Practice owners building relationships

9. GDA Block Party

The GDA Block Party serves as an informal networking kickoff before the association's annual governance meetings.

Event Focus

This casual social gathering provides GDA members with relaxed networking opportunities before formal association business meetings. The Augusta location brings members together in a festive atmosphere.

Key Features

• Informal social atmosphere
• Pre-meeting networking opportunity
• Casual professional connections
• Food and beverages

Event Details

• Date: January 30, 2026
• Time: 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM EST
• Location: Augusta, GA (specific venue TBA)
• Cost: TBA
• Contact: (404) 636-7553

Target Audience

• GDA members attending governance meetings
• Dentists seeking informal networking
• Association leaders and delegates

10. GDA Winter House of Delegates Meeting

The GDA Winter House handles semi-annual governance matters for the Georgia Dental Association.

Event Focus

This governance meeting addresses association business, policy discussions, and strategic planning for the GDA. District representatives convene to make decisions affecting Georgia's dental community.

Key Features

• Association business and policy discussions
• District representative meetings
• Strategic planning sessions
• Follows LAW Day advocacy event

Event Details

• Time: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM EST
• Location: Atlanta area (venue TBA)
• Cost: Included with delegate status
• Contact: (404) 636-7553

Target Audience

• GDA delegates only
• District representatives
• Association leadership

11. NWDDS Spring CE & Officer's Visit

The Northwest District Dental Society Spring CE event provides regional continuing education for northwest Georgia dental professionals.

Event Focus

This regional event brings continuing education directly to northwest Georgia dentists, reducing travel time while providing quality CE credits and district officer engagement.

Key Features

• Clinical continuing education hours
• District officer visits and updates
• Regional networking opportunities
• Convenient northwest Georgia location

Event Details

• Time: 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM EDT
• Location: Northwest Georgia (venue TBA)
• Cost: TBA
• Contact: (404) 636-7553

Target Audience

• Northwest Georgia dentists
• District dental society members
• Dentists seeking local CE opportunities

12. Augusta University DCG Continuing Dental Education Courses

Augusta University's Dental College offers multiple ADA CERP recognized continuing education courses throughout 2026.

Event Focus

Augusta University's dental education courses provide ADA CERP recognized continuing education across multiple formats, including in-person and online options. The institution is a recognized leader in dental education.

Scheduled 2026 Events

• April 1: Clinical Advances in a Restorative Practice
• June 30: Pediatric Dentistry CE Course (Continuum of Care from Infancy through Adolescence)
• September 11-13: Beauty and the Beast Dental Conference (Omni Amelia Island, FL)

Key Features

• ADA CERP Recognized Provider status
• In-person and online options
• Multi-day conference accommodations available
• Hotel information for conferences
• Contact: (706) 721-1420

Target Audience

• General dentists seeking CE credits
• Pediatric dentistry specialists
• Restorative dentistry practitioners
• Georgia dentists meeting license requirements

13. Georgia Academy of General Dentistry CE Events

GAGD CE Events occur throughout 2026 across multiple Georgia cities, supporting general dentists pursuing AGD Fellowship and Mastership.

Event Focus

These events specifically support general dentists pursuing AGD Fellowship and Mastership credentials while meeting Georgia Board of Dentistry CE requirements.

Key Features

• Multiple events throughout 2026-2027 biennium
• Credits applicable to AGD Fellowship/Mastership
• Meets Georgia Board CE requirements
• Various clinical topics and specialties
• Member discounts available

Event Details

• Location: Multiple Georgia cities
• Cost: Varies by event
• Registration: Fills quickly; check calendar frequently
• Contact: (404) 636-7553

Target Audience

• General dentists pursuing AGD credentials
• GDA members seeking CE credits
• Dentists maintaining Georgia licensure

14. GDHA CE Symposiums (Regional Events)

GDHA CE Symposiums provide continuing education opportunities for dental hygienists across multiple Georgia cities throughout 2026.

Event Focus

These regional symposiums bring continuing education directly to hygienists across Georgia, reducing travel burden while providing quality CEUs specific to hygiene practice.

Scheduled Locations

• Dallas, GA
• Atlanta/Norcross area
• Albany, GA
• Savannah, GA
• Gainesville, GA

Key Features

• Regional symposiums with CEUs
• Student Vendor Research Day (Clayton State)
• Weyrich Scholarship Meeting (Gainesville)
• Foothills Symposium (Gainesville)
• Hinman Booth presence (March)
• Member and non-member pricing

Event Details

• Dates: Various throughout 2026
• Cost: Varies by event
• Check GDHA website and Facebook for updates
• Contact: Through GDHA website

Target Audience

• Licensed dental hygienists statewide
• Dental hygiene students
• Hygienists seeking regional CE options

15. GDA District Meetings (Throughout 2026)

GDA District Meetings provide local networking and continuing education opportunities across Georgia's dental districts.

Event Focus

District meetings bring professional development to local communities throughout Georgia, with blanket CE approval from the Georgia Board of Dentistry making credit qualification seamless.

District Coverage

• Eastern District Dental Society (EDDS)
• Northwest District Dental Society (NWDDS)
• Northern District
• Additional districts statewide

Key Features

• Spring CE & Officer's Visits (March-May)
• Fall meetings throughout districts
• Blanket CE approval from Georgia Board
• Typically free or low-cost for members
• Local networking with nearby colleagues

Event Details

• Dates: Various throughout 2026
• Cost: Free to low-cost for district members
• Contact: (404) 636-7553
• District-specific contact information via GDA

Target Audience

• District dental society members
• Dentists seeking local CE opportunities
• Professionals building regional networks

Benefits of Attending Dental Events in Georgia

Participating in Georgia's dental events offers multiple professional and personal advantages that extend far beyond continuing education credits.

Professional Development

Dental conferences provide exposure to cutting-edge clinical techniques, emerging technologies, and evidence-based practices that may not yet be widely adopted. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, continuing education in dentistry contributes to improved patient outcomes and enhanced clinical competency.

Networking Opportunities

Georgia's dental events create connections with colleagues, specialists, industry leaders, and potential practice partners. These relationships often lead to referral networks, mentorship opportunities, and collaborative problem-solving for common practice challenges.

Business Growth Insights

Practice management tracks at major conferences like Hinman and the GDA Annual Convention provide strategies for:

• Implementing new revenue streams
• Improving patient retention and satisfaction
• Adopting efficient practice technologies
• Enhancing team performance and culture
• Marketing and patient acquisition strategies

Work-Life Balance

Events like the GDA President's Trip to Iceland and the Jekyll Island Convention demonstrate how professional development can integrate with personal wellness and family time, preventing burnout while maintaining engagement with the dental community.

Community Impact

Charitable events like Georgia Mission of Mercy allow dental professionals to give back to underserved populations while gaining clinical experience in high-volume, diverse case scenarios.

Georgia's Dental Community Overview

Georgia's dental landscape combines urban sophistication with Southern hospitality, creating a unique environment for professional growth and collaboration.

Geographic Diversity

Georgia's dental events span from metropolitan Atlanta to coastal Jekyll Island, historic Augusta, and regional districts throughout the state. This geographic diversity allows professionals to attend events convenient to their practice locations while experiencing different parts of Georgia's culture and scenery.

Community Commitment

Georgia's dental community demonstrates strong commitment to both professional excellence and charitable care. Events like Georgia Mission of Mercy, combined with the Hinman Meeting's $11 million in donations to dental education, reflect the state's values of service and advancement of the profession.

Planning Your 2026 Georgia Dental Event Schedule

For practice owners attending multiple conferences throughout the year, maintaining patient communication remains essential. Arini's AI receptionist answers calls 24/7 and books appointments directly into your practice management system, ensuring no opportunities are missed while you're investing in professional development.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Georgia Board of Dentistry require specific types of CE credits for licensure renewal/

The Georgia Board provides blanket approval for GDA and affiliated events, making these the safest choice for meeting CE requirements. Always verify current requirements directly with the Georgia Board of Dentistry, as regulations can change. Events like Hinman and GDA Convention offer diverse CE tracks that typically satisfy various specialty requirements.

How can dental practices ensure they don't miss patient calls while staff attends dental events/

Consider implementing Arini's AI receptionist which answers calls around the clock and can schedule appointments directly into your practice management system. This ensures patient calls are handled professionally while your team focuses on professional development at conferences like Hinman or the GDA Convention.

What are the benefits of attending local dental events versus national conferences/

Local Georgia events like district meetings offer targeted networking with nearby professionals and typically lower costs. National-caliber events like the Hinman Dental Meeting provide broader perspectives, larger exhibit halls with hundreds of exhibitors, and access to 20,000+ attendees for diverse networking opportunities. Many Georgia dentists benefit from attending both types throughout the year.

Are there grants or scholarships available for Georgia dentists to attend professional development events?

The Hinman Dental Meeting offers FREE registration for students, making it accessible for future dental professionals. The non-profit Hinman organization has donated over $11 million to dental education. Additionally, some GDA events include membership discounts, and charitable events like Georgia Mission of Mercy provide CE credits for volunteers while serving the community.