For dental professionals in Hawaii and beyond, 2026 offers a compelling calendar of educational events, from large-scale conventions to intimate, hands-on workshops. These gatherings provide essential continuing education credits, networking opportunities with peers and industry leaders, and a chance to discover the latest innovations in dental technology and practice management. 

Whether you're a dentist seeking to expand your surgical skills, a hygienist fulfilling license renewal requirements, or a practice manager focused on operational efficiency, Hawaii's unique blend of professional development and island paradise creates an ideal learning environment. To ensure your practice runs smoothly while you're away, consider an AI receptionist platform that can handle patient calls, schedule appointments, and answer FAQs 24/7, so you never miss a new patient opportunity.

Key Takeaways

• Hawaii's primary dental event, the Hawaii Dental Association (HDA) Convention, was held in January 2026, with the 2027 event already scheduled for the same venue.
• The prestigious 46th Annual Hawaiian Dental Forum offers a two-week CE option in February, with Week 1 on Maui and Week 2 on Kauai.
• Several high-value CE events are scheduled for early 2026, including Oral Surgery in Paradise (March) and the UCLA Hawai'i Symposium (July).
• Dental hygienists have a dedicated event in November: the HDHA Annual Scientific Session on Oahu.
• According to the Hawaii Department of Commerce, dentists must complete continuing education requirements for license renewal, making these events essential for maintaining professional credentials.

1. Hawaii Dental Association (HDA) Convention 2026

The HDA Convention is the cornerstone event for Hawaii's dental community, serving as the primary annual gathering for dentists, hygienists, assistants, and office managers across the state. The 2026 convention has already concluded, but it sets the standard for future events and provides a critical networking hub for the local industry.

Event Details

• Venue: Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach, 2490 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
• Target Audience: All dental professionals in Hawaii
• Format: In-person convention

Key Features

• A comprehensive exhibit hall showcasing the latest dental products, equipment, and software solutions
• A diverse schedule of continuing education sessions covering clinical and practice management topics
• Unparalleled networking opportunities with the entire Hawaii dental community
• A platform for the Hawaii Dental Association to communicate with its members

Future Planning

The 2027 HDA Convention is scheduled for mid-January 2027 at the same Alohilani Resort venue. Note that the official HDA website lists conflicting dates (January 13-15 and January 14-15), so interested parties should confirm directly with the association. This event is a prime opportunity for vendors and service providers, like those offering practice management integration, to connect with key decision-makers from practices across the islands.

2. 46th Annual Hawaiian Dental Forum - Week 1 (Maui)

The Hawaiian Dental Forum is a long-standing, prestigious event known for its high-quality education delivered in a luxurious resort setting. Now in its 46th year, the forum offers a unique, week-long intensive seminar format that allows professionals to combine serious learning with a well-deserved vacation.

Event Details

• Venue: Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa, 200 Nohea Kai Dr, Lahaina, HI 96761
• Organizer: Dental Seminars & Symposia (DS&S), LLC
• Target Audience: Dentists and dental professionals seeking an immersive CE experience

Key Features

• An intensive, week-long seminar structure that allows for deep dives into complex topics
• A luxury resort setting on the beautiful island of Maui, providing a relaxing and inspiring environment
• Flexible registration, allowing attendees to choose to attend just this week, just Week 2 on Kauai, or both for an extended experience

Practice Management Note

For a solo practitioner or a small team planning to attend this week-long event, maintaining patient communication is crucial. An AI receptionist solution can ensure that the practice continues to capture new patient calls and manage existing patient inquiries, preventing revenue loss during your absence.

3. 46th Annual Hawaiian Dental Forum - Week 2 (Kauai)

For those who wish to extend their educational and vacation experience, the Hawaiian Dental Forum offers a second week on the stunning island of Kauai. This provides an alternative or a continuation of the learning journey begun in Maui.

Event Details

• Venue: Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa, 3610 Rice St, Koloa, HI 96756
• Organizer: Dental Seminars & Symposia (DS&S), LLC
• Target Audience: Same as Week 1; ideal for those seeking a longer CE break or a different island experience

Key Features

• The same high-caliber educational content as Week 1, delivered in a new, equally beautiful location
• The option to register for this week independently or as a package with the Maui week
• The opportunity to experience the unique culture and landscapes of Kauai while fulfilling CE requirements

Logistics Consideration

Attending both weeks requires inter-island travel. Dental professionals should plan their travel and practice coverage accordingly. Having a reliable system for improving patient satisfaction through consistent, 24/7 communication can ease the stress of managing a practice remotely from a different island.

4. UBC Adventure and Learn Hawaii (Maui)

The University of British Columbia's Faculty of Dentistry brings its renowned "Adventure and Learn" program to Maui in February 2026. This event is specifically designed for dental professionals interested in tackling complex clinical cases and interdisciplinary treatment planning.

Event Details

• Venue: Fairmont Kea Lani Resort, 4100 Wailea Alanui Dr, Wailea, HI 96753
• Organizer: University of British Columbia Faculty of Dentistry
• Target Audience: Dentists focused on advanced, complex patient care

Key Features

• A focused curriculum on managing complex dental patients and full-mouth rehabilitation techniques
• Exploration of the critical connection between orthodontic and prosthodontic treatment phases
• The "adventure" component, set against the backdrop of Maui, provides a unique and engaging learning atmosphere
• A future program is planned for the Big Island in 2027, with details expected in spring 2026

Educational Value

This course is ideal for practitioners looking to elevate their clinical skills to handle more challenging cases, thereby expanding the scope of services their practice can offer and potentially maximizing practice revenue.

5. Oral Surgery in Paradise

This intensive, hands-on workshop is designed to empower general practitioners with advanced surgical competencies. Held in the heart of Waikiki, it offers a practical, skills-based curriculum that can be immediately applied in a general practice setting.

Event Details

• Venue: Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa, 2552 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
• Organizer: Goldman Dental Management
• Cost: Individual courses $745-$895; All three courses package for $2,095
• CE Credits: 18 hours total
• Target Audience: General dentists seeking to enhance their surgical skills

Key Features

• Extensive hands-on exercises using anatomical models to practice advanced suturing techniques
• Training in guided bone regeneration (GBR) and complex extraction procedures
• A three-day, highly focused format that delivers a significant amount of practical knowledge in a short time

Skill Investment

Adding these surgical skills to a practice's service menu can be a significant growth driver. To manage the increased patient flow and appointment scheduling that often follows the addition of new services, practices can benefit from an automated system that converts missed calls.

6. UCLA Hawai'i Symposium 2026

The UCLA School of Dentistry's annual symposium in Hawaii is a well-established, lecture-based program that offers a substantial amount of CE credit in a condensed, five-day format. It is a popular choice for its reputable content and family-friendly summer timing.

Event Details

• Venue: Royal Sonesta Kaua'i Resort, 3610 Rice St, Lihue, HI 96766
• Cost: Dentists - $1,800 (by April 30) / $2,000 (after); Staff - $630 (by April 30) / $700 (after)
• CE Credits: 20 CDE credits (ADA CERP recognized)
• Target Audience: Dentists, dental professionals, and their support staff

Key Features

• A total of 20 ADA CERP-recognized CE credits, which is a significant portion of most state's renewal requirements
• A morning-only schedule that leaves afternoons and evenings free for family activities or exploring the island
• Special group hotel rates are available, making it a cost-effective family trip
• A Q&A session after each lecture allows for direct interaction with the faculty

Early Bird Savings

A significant financial incentive exists for early registration, with a $200 savings for dentists and $70 for staff if registered by April 30, 2026.

7. 2026 HDHA Annual Scientific Session

This event is the premier gathering for registered dental hygienists in Hawaii. Organized by the Hawaii Dental Hygienists' Association (HDHA), it is specifically tailored to meet the CE requirements for RDH license renewal in the state, which mandates 20 hours of CE every two years.

Event Details

• Location: Oahu, Hawaii (specific venue TBA)
• Organizer: Hawaii Dental Hygienists' Association (HDHA)
• Target Audience: Registered Dental Hygienists (RDHs) in Hawaii

Key Features

• CE courses that are directly applicable to Hawaii RDH license renewal
• A dedicated ethics course, which is a specific requirement for Hawaii hygienists
• Networking opportunities with fellow hygienists from across the state
• A vendor exhibit hall showcasing products and services relevant to the hygiene profession
• HDHA leadership meetings and association business

Practical Impact

For hygienists, this is a non-negotiable event for maintaining licensure. The single-day format minimizes disruption to the practice schedule, but ensuring that recall and hygiene scheduling continues smoothly can be managed effectively with the help of an AI receptionist platform, which can handle hygiene appointment requests and confirmations.

Benefits of Attending Dental Events in Hawaii

Attending dental conferences and continuing education events in Hawaii offers unique advantages beyond the obvious appeal of the tropical location. Understanding these benefits can help dental professionals justify the investment and maximize the value of their attendance.

Professional Development and Clinical Excellence

Hawaii dental events consistently attract world-class speakers and educators who bring cutting-edge research and clinical techniques. The intimate setting of island conferences often allows for more personalized interaction with faculty, enabling attendees to ask detailed questions and receive tailored guidance for their specific practice challenges. According to the CDC's oral health data, continuing education directly correlates with improved patient outcomes and the adoption of evidence-based practices.

Networking in a Relaxed Environment

The unique atmosphere of Hawaii creates an ideal networking environment where professional connections form more naturally than at traditional convention centers. Between sessions, attendees can connect over shared activities—whether it's a morning ocean swim, a sunset luau, or a guided tour—leading to deeper professional relationships that extend beyond the conference floor. These connections often result in referral networks, collaborative treatment planning relationships, and mentorship opportunities that benefit practices for years to come.

Practice Growth and Revenue Enhancement

The skills and knowledge gained at Hawaii dental events translate directly into expanded service offerings and improved practice efficiency. Courses like Oral Surgery in Paradise provide hands-on training that allows general practitioners to perform procedures they would previously refer out, directly increasing practice revenue. Additionally, learning about the latest technologies and practice management strategies helps dental professionals streamline operations and improve patient acquisition and retention.

Work-Life Balance and Burnout Prevention

Dental professionals face high rates of occupational stress and burnout. Combining continuing education with a rejuvenating island experience addresses both professional requirements and personal wellness. The opportunity to bring family members, enjoy world-class resorts, and experience Hawaii's natural beauty transforms a mandatory educational requirement into a meaningful life experience. This balance is essential for long-term career satisfaction and the prevention of professional burnout.

Hawaii's Dental Landscape and Professional Community

Understanding Hawaii's unique dental landscape provides important context for dental professionals considering attendance at these events or even practice opportunities in the islands.

Regulatory Environment

Hawaii maintains specific continuing education requirements for dental professionals. According to the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, dentists must complete continuing education for license renewal, and registered dental hygienists have distinct requirements including mandatory ethics courses. The events listed in this guide are designed to meet these state-specific needs while providing education that exceeds minimum standards.

Market Characteristics

Hawaii's dental market presents unique characteristics shaped by its island geography and diverse population. The state's isolation means that dental professionals often need to be more self-sufficient, with broader skill sets than their mainland counterparts. This reality drives strong attendance at hands-on surgical and complex case management courses. According to Hawaii Tourism Authority data, the state's economy relies heavily on tourism, which influences practice management strategies and the demographic mix of patient populations.

Community and Collaboration

Despite spanning multiple islands across vast ocean distances, Hawaii's dental community is remarkably tight-knit. Events like the HDA Convention serve as essential touchpoints where professionals from Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island reconnect, share best practices, and collaborate on advancing dental care across the state. This sense of community extends to welcoming mainland practitioners who attend Hawaii events, creating opportunities for knowledge exchange between island and continental practice environments.

Cultural Considerations

Hawaii's multicultural population—including Native Hawaiian, Japanese, Filipino, Chinese, and Caucasian communities—requires cultural competency in dental practice. Many of the educational events incorporate content on serving diverse patient populations and understanding cultural attitudes toward oral health. This cultural awareness training is invaluable not only for practitioners serving Hawaii's population but also for those working in diverse communities anywhere.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I find exact dates and locations for 2026 dental events

The most reliable source is the official website of the event organizer. For the HDA Convention, visit the Hawaii Dental Association website. For the Hawaiian Dental Forum, check hawaiiandentalforum.com. For university-sponsored events, visit the UCLA or UBC dentistry school websites.

What continuing education credits are available at Hawaii events

Most in-person events in Hawaii offer ADA CERP-recognized CE credits, which are accepted in all 50 states. The UCLA Hawai'i Symposium offers 20 CDE credits. For hygienists, the HDHA Annual Scientific Session provides courses that meet the specific 20-hour requirement for Hawaii RDH license renewal, including the mandatory ethics component.

What are the benefits of attending conferences over online courses

While online courses offer flexibility, in-person conferences provide irreplaceable value through direct networking with peers and industry leaders, hands-on workshops (like the Oral Surgery in Paradise event), access to a large exhibit hall to see and test new products, and the motivational boost of being in a dedicated learning environment away from the daily practice routine.

Can I network with specialists at these Hawaii events

Yes, especially at larger events like the HDA Convention and the Hawaiian Dental Forum, which attract a wide range of dental professionals from across the state and the mainland. These events are prime opportunities to connect with specialists, potential referral partners, and like-minded colleagues to discuss clinical challenges and practice management strategies.