CALIFORNIA SOCIETY OF PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY 4 President's Message
PEDODONTIST
(Pediatric Dentist)
Columbia Valley Community Health (CVCH) is growing! CVCH is a dynamic, progressive community health center with locations in Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, and Chelan. We have an excellent opportunity for a Pedodontist (Pediatric Dentist) at our Wenatchee location.
The Pedodontist (Pediatric Dentist) provides professional dental care, emergency dental treatment and oral hygiene to the patients of Columbia Valley Community Health (CVCH), including all relevant and required chart documentation.
Must Apply at CVCH.ORG
Position Requirements:
• Graduation from an accredited dental school with a DDS or DMD degree, and/or completion with a certificate from a CODA accredited dental residency program.
• Graduation from an accredited pediatric dental residency program.
• Washington State Dental License or eligibility to obtain licensure in the state of WA and current DEA with no restrictions and in good standing. Maintain documentation of all WAC requirements including continuing education and any other requirements accordingly. Pediatric Advanced Life Support, “PALS” certification.
• Providers must be eligible for enrollment in Medicare and must not be currently opted out of the Medicare program.
• One or more years of experience as a clinical dentist preferred, especially in a community or public health setting.
We are located in the heart of Washington State where we enjoy abundant recreational opportunities, 300 days of sunshine and a family friendly environment with good schools and opportunities for the entire family to be involved in culture and arts.
CVCH offers:
• Competitive Compensation
• Up to $50,000.00 sign on & relocation bonus
• Flexible schedules
• Generous paid leave/holidays
• Health insurance stipend offered for employee and dependents
• Gym/fitness stipend
• Retirement with 150% employer matching
• A cultural immersion program in a predominantly Spanish-speaking country
• This position is eligible for student loan repayment programs
Why Work at CVCH:
CVCH staff are more engaged in their work than 95% of similar organizations across the country. We are proud to have such dedicated staff serving patients, day in and day out.
To learn more about the position, salary, full details on benefits, and to apply, visit us at www.cvch.org and click on the Employment and Training tab and find the position you are interested in learning more about.
SUMMER 2026
TABLE of CONTENTS
4 President's Message
9 Summary of WBI Projects
5 Annual Meeting Images
10 Introduction to CSPD’s Lobbyist
11 Congratulations Residents Resident Advocacy 18
DR. CHANEL MCCREEDY - BULLETIN MANAGING EDITOR 26 WSPD President Report
30 Board Motions
AAPD Western District 31 Elected and Appointed Leadership
Members are invited and encouraged to contribute to the CSPD Bulletin. Articles of general or specific interest, Letters to the Editor, and commentary on issues of public policy and matters of pediatric oral health are welcome. Items intended for publication may be submitted to Managing Editor Dr. Chanel McCreedy at chanel.mccreedy@gmail.com or to admin@cspd.org
The mission of the Bulletin of the California Society of Pediatric Dentistry is to communicate with members on issues affecting the specialty of Pediatric Dentistry and the oral health of infants, children, and adolescents. The Bulletin will provide information on Society activities, initiatives, governance, and member services, as well as information and notice of the accomplishments and actions of its members.
The views and opinions expressed by individual members in articles and commentaries are those of the author and do not necessarily represent policy or viewpoint of the California Society of Pediatric Dentistry.
CONTINUING OUR GOOD WORK
Dr. Natalie Vander Kam - CSPD President
Thank you for choosing me to serve as your 2026-2027 CSPD President! I am taking the reins at a very exciting time for CSPD and I am so thankful to my colleagues who came before me for charting and setting up a path for our society. I am excited to carry us forward and continue our good work.
Our 2026 Annual Meeting in San Diego was a beautiful event filled with members from near and far. We celebrated 50 years of the CSPD with a wonderful luncheon and tribute to our past presidents. We had 24 past presidents in attendance, and it was so fun to see their joy and love of CSPD and the relationships that they have formed through our specialty. We had a variety of interesting continuing education courses to stimulate the mind; we had a sold out team day allowing offices to engage their teams in education and team bonding. We had a very successful and exciting poster presentation and competition. Our sponsor booths were also sold out, indicating that vendors recognize the impact of our meeting. The food was delicious and the receptions were fun and lively and the warm weather and sunshine only made it better. Thank you to Leslie Butler, the Annual Meeting Committee, and Teri and her team for putting together such a great event!
I had the opportunity this past spring to hear Dr. Heber Simmons Jr. speak at the AAPD’s Pediatric Oral Health Advocacy Conference and his message is simple: “Help us take care of the children”. This is what we are all here for as pediatric dentists and the way we approach this message can have many different looks.
1. This year I hope to work with Evelyne Vu Tien, our PPA and Chad Mayes, our lobbyist, as well as the entire advocacy committee to elevate our voice at the Capitol and amongst other key groups in the state. We want to not only advocate for the kids and their oral health care needs but advocate for our businesses, insurance transparency, and safe sedation laws that include all dental specialties.
2. We can help take care of the children by having strong organizational structure. Continued collaboration with SMA, our association management team, is bringing great consistency and structure to our leadership team. Our new website has launched with resources about networking events and job opportunities and with a learning hub to strengthen our continuing education knowledge which in turn will strengthen us as pediatric dentists.
3. We can help the children by engaging our members. By clearly communicating the efforts our society is working on, we can demonstrate value. Having members join and serve on committees as well as encouraging others to join CSPD, our united voice can be stronger and clearer.
I am looking forward to a busy year ahead filled with collaboration, education, advocacy, and hard work. Thank you again for this opportunity to serve the CSPD.
WBI PROJECT SUMMARY - CSPD MESSAGING: MISINFORMATION IN THE MEDIA
Carleen Tse, DMD, MPH
Dr. Carly Tse-Goldstein’s Warren Brandli Leadership Internship project aimed to research and recommend strategies for how CSPD can adopt modern social media tactics, particularly on Instagram, to communicate current pediatric oral health issues to the public. The project included three main components: an in-depth literature review on social media use in medicine and dentistry, a three-part Instagram post series, and a survey evaluating pediatric dentists’ perceptions of misinformation in the media.
The literature identifies four primary tactics to increase the credibility of social media posts: (1) citing evidence and peer-reviewed research, (2) featuring leaders in the field, (3) maintaining transparency, and (4) incorporating visual aids. These strategies were implemented in a three-part social media series on CSPD’s Instagram page (@cspediatricdentistry).
The first post addressed fluoride, one of the most controversial topics in dental social media. This post incorporated three of the four tactics, emphasizing peer-reviewed citations, highlighting AAPD guidelines, and promoting transparency through research-based recommendations. It received over 1,500 views and attracted new followers to the page. The second post was a video “Reel” featuring Dr. Kareena Kevork, a board-certified dentist anesthesiologist, who discussed anesthesia and nitrous oxide safety. This post was co-authored and shared on Dr. Kevork’s professional profile, utilizing the strategy of featuring a subject matter expert. The video reached over 1,900 views and generated fourteen comments emphasizing the importance of the information presented. The final post in the series focused on radiation safety in the dental office and relied heavily on visual aids. With minimal text and strong graphic elements, it effectively communicated the safety of dental radiographs. This post received over 2,300 views and became CSPD’s most-viewed post. Overall, CSPD’s Instagram page experienced significant growth, with a 501% increase in accounts reached since the series began.
A total of 51 pediatric dentists in California were surveyed regarding their perceptions of misinformation in the media. Respondents included practitioners from academic and private practice settings, with experience ranging
from 1 year to over 20 years. Fifty-two percent reported encountering dental-related content daily, primarily on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. Notably, 87% reported seeing misinformation about pediatric dentistry on social media, with fluoride safety identified as the most common topic. Furthermore, nearly all respondents expressed a lack of confidence in parents’ ability to identify false dental information online. So, what is CSPD’s role in addressing this issue? CSPD can serve as a trusted platform for disseminating accurate information, and all respondents supported CSPD’s efforts to use social media to combat misinformation.
WBI PROJECT SUMMARY - CSPD GOVERNANCE CALENDAR CREATION
Aubrey Fleming, DDS, MPH
As a Warren Brandli Leadership Intern, my project focused on the development of an updated CSPD Governance Calendar designed to serve as a practical guide for board members and committee chairs. Following the recent restructuring and consolidation of CSPD leadership positions, this project aimed to improve clarity, organization, and continuity across leadership roles.
To inform this work, I connected with past CSPD officers and committee leaders to better understand the timing of responsibilities, key deliverables, and lessons learned from their experiences in each role.
The final product is intended to complement the CSPD Administrative Policy and Procedures Manual by translating existing information into a more accessible, user-friendly format. The governance calendar outlines month-tomonth expectations, highlights important deadlines, and captures practical insights to help leaders navigate their roles more effectively. Ultimately, this tool aims to support smoother transitions between leadership positions, promote consistency across committees, and enhance overall efficiency within CSPD.
This experience provided me with valuable insight into the inner workings of CSPD and the thoughtful leadership that drives the organization forward. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to contribute to a project that I hope will serve as a lasting resource for future leaders. It has been an honor to be part of CSPD for the last couple of years and to work alongside such dedicated mentors and colleagues who are deeply committed to advocacy, education, and improving oral health outcomes for children, including those with special healthcare needs.
INTRODUCTION TO CSPD’S LOBBYIST
Chad Mayes, Managing Partner, Genesi LLC
Chad Mayes has spent more than two decades at the center of California's most consequential policy debates. As Founder and Principal of Genesi LLC, he brings that experience to bear for clients who need more than access - they need someone who understands how power actually works in Sacramento and has the credibility to move within it.
Elected to the California State Assembly in 2014, Mayes rose faster than almost anyone in recent memory, earning election as Assembly Minority Leader after just ten months in office. He served four terms, ultimately as an Independent, building a reputation as one of Sacramento's most effective bipartisan dealmakers. For California's healthcare community, his record is particularly relevant, including five years as Vice Chair of the Assembly Health Committee, giving him an expert command of the policy and regulatory forces that define healthcare in the state.
His legislative achievements include co-authoring the legislation that created the California Wildfire Fund, shaping California's landmark Cap-and-Trade framework, and cofounding the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus. He also co-founded New Way California alongside former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger.
A graduate of Liberty University, Mayes lives in Rancho Mirage with his wife, Dr. Andis Almasi Mayes, a pediatric dentist, and their daughters, Mila and Chloe.
Chad Mayes | Managing Partner | Genesi LLC
Phone: +1 760 413-9048 | www.genesi.llc
CONGRATULATIONS LOMA LINDA RESIDENTS
Dr. Ellen Chun was born in South Korea and immigrated with her family to Tennessee, where her parents—both dental technicians— inspired her interest in dentistry early on. She completed her undergraduate studies in Chemistry at Southern Adventist University and earned her DDS from Loma Linda University. After practicing as a general dentist in California and Washington, she discovered her passion for working with children and returned to Loma Linda for her Pediatric Dental Residency. She is grateful for the mentorship she received and looks forward to practicing in California or Washington, where she aims to provide a positive, calming experience for young patients. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, knitting, playing piano, visiting coffee shops and farmers markets, reading, and exploring new hobbies.
Dr. Pooja Katira was born and raised in Mumbai, India, where she earned her B.D.S. and M.D.S. in Pediatric Dentistry. While training, she participated in oral health initiatives in rural communities, which shaped her commitment to expanding access to pediatric dental care. She later moved to the U.S., gaining clinical experience in Boston through preceptorships and assisting roles, and is now completing her pediatric dental residency at Loma Linda University. There, she has developed expertise in treating diverse populations, including children with special healthcare needs.
As she approaches graduation, Dr. Katira plans to practice in Washington, with a focus on compassionate, comprehensive care in underserved communities. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling with her husband, exploring cafes, dancing, reading, and cooking Indian cuisine.
Dr. Valerie Penarubia is heading to California’s Central Coast, where she looks forward to joining a pediatric dental team and building lasting relationships with children and families. She is passionate about creating dental experiences rooted in trust, gentleness, and even a little fun, believing that earning a child’s trust is one of the most meaningful parts of her work.
Originally from the Philippines, she earned her first DMD and led dental missions serving underserved communities in Cavite. She later moved to the U.S. to complete the International Dentistry Program at Loma Linda University, graduating in 2024 before continuing directly into a pediatric residency.
Outside the clinic, she enjoys traveling with her husband and their corgi, exploring Michelin-star restaurants, and learning tennis.
Dr. Rata Rokhshad is a second-year pediatric dental resident at Loma Linda University with over seven years of research experience and more than 40 peer-reviewed publications focused on AI in dental medicine. Her clinical training includes care for children with special healthcare needs, behavior guidance, sedation, laser dentistry, and treatment under general anesthesia.
Known for her imaginative approach, she incorporates games and storytelling to make dental visits feel engaging and comfortable for young patients. She was recognized with a Resident Recognition Award from the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry during her residency. Looking ahead, Dr. Rata aims to expand access to pediatric care while continuing to develop AI-driven tools designed to improve outcomes for children worldwide.
CONGRATULATIONS UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES RESIDENTS
Dr. Stephanie Cho is a Bay Area native, born and raised in San Jose, CA. She completed her undergraduate studies at UCLA, earning a B.A. in English, before pursuing careers in teaching and the tech industry — experiences that deepened her commitment to equity and her belief in the transformative power of access to quality care. A personal encounter with the healthcare system inspired her to pursue dentistry as a means of bridging those gaps, and she went on to earn her DDS from UCSF, where she served at the student-run free dental clinic, providing essential care to underserved communities in San Francisco. Her love of working with children led her to specialize in pediatric dentistry, and during her residency at UCLA she served as Pre-Doctoral Chief — a role that allowed her to bring her passion for teaching full circle, both in her work with young patients and in mentoring dental students. She is deeply committed to expanding access to care for underserved communities, building lasting relationships with families, and advocating for children with special healthcare needs. After residency, Dr. Cho is open to opportunities in the Bay Area or Los Angeles, with hopes of practicing across both private practice and community health settings. Outside of dentistry, she loves finding the city’s best restaurants and cafes with her husband, their newborn son, and rescue pup.
Dr. Tuan “Danny” Do was born and raised in Anaheim, California. He attended the University of California, Santa Barbara, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences. He then completed his dental training at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), where he developed a strong interest in community dentistry and caring for vulnerable populations. During dental school, he served as a director of the UCSF Community Dental Clinic, a studentrun clinic providing comprehensive, no-cost care to patients in need, where he helped expand access to care and deliver meaningful treatment to the community.
Dr. Do is currently completing his pediatric dental residency at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where he has had the opportunity to care for medically complex and special needs patients. These experiences have further strengthened his commitment to providing compassionate, patient-centered care. He is also a National Health Service Corps (NHSC) Scholar, with plans to continue working in communities with the greatest need.
After graduating in July 2026, Dr. Do plans to remain in California and is open to practicing in a community-based
or group practice setting, with a strong interest in serving diverse pediatric populations with limited access to care. In his free time, he enjoys staying active, trying new restaurants, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.
Dr. Serena Hsin earned her dental degree from the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine and completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency at the Hudson Valley VA Medical Center. She subsequently spent eight years as a full-time dentist in a community-based clinic, where she played a key role in advancing a patient-centered dental home model for young children and strengthening care delivery within a safety-net system. Driven by a commitment to health equity and systems-level impact, Dr. Hsin pursued advanced training in pediatric dentistry at UCLA, where she refined her expertise in managing complex pediatric cases while expanding her experience in interdisciplinary care, program development, and clinical leadership. Dr. Hsin brings a leadership-focused approach to dentistry, with particular strengths in optimizing clinical operations, redefining scope of services to better align with community needs, and building cohesive, high-performing teams. She is deeply committed to expanding access to care, improving quality and continuity of services, and developing sustainable models that support both patients and providers. As she transitions from training, Dr. Hsin will be taking on leadership roles in community-based settings, with a focus on directing and growing dental programs, stabilizing and strengthening care delivery systems, and driving meaningful, long-term improvements in pediatric oral health at both the organizational and population levels.
Dr. Megan Maher-Sandstrom is a Long Beach, California native. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Biochemistry from Occidental College and spent two years working as a dental assistant in a pediatric private practice prior to attending dental school. She received her Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree from Western University of Health Sciences. She is currently in her second year of pediatric dental residency at UCLA. She is passionate about providing empathetic, evidence-based, minimally invasive care and is committed to improving access to dental services for children in her community. She also strives to empower her patients to become lifelong learners of their own health. Dr. Maher-Sandstrom hopes to practice in the Long Beach, South Bay, or Orange County areas, but is open to opportunities elsewhere.
Dr. Kayley Neukam grew up in Las Vegas, Nevada. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in Child and Family Studies from Baylor University in Waco, TX, where she was actively involved in leadership within the American Student Dental Association. She went on to receive her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Utah School of Dentistry. It was during her dental training that Dr. Neukam discovered her passion for pediatric dentistry, inspired by the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with children and help shape positive early dental experiences. Dr. Neukam is currently a second-year pediatric dental resident at UCLA, where she continues to grow her clinical skills and provide compassionate, patientcentered care. She has a particular interest in treating children with special healthcare needs and is dedicated to creating a supportive and welcoming environment where every child feels comfortable and confident. Following residency, Dr. Neukam plans to remain in Southern California and is excited to build her career serving the local community. Outside of dentistry, she enjoys baking, exploring new beaches, and finding scenic walking trails.
Dr. Angela Suryakusuma grew up in Austin, Texas, and earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Nutrition from The University of Texas at Austin. During those college years, she participated in a medical brigade to Nicaragua, where she shadowed a dentist for the first time. This experience ignited her passion for dentistry and solidified her desire to become a dentist.
As she progressed through dental school, her interest in pediatrics deepened. In 2024, Dr. Suryakusuma graduated from The University of Texas School of Dentistry at Houston and was thrilled to match with the UCLA Pediatric Dentistry residency program, bringing her one step closer to her dream of becoming a pediatric dentist. Dr. Suryakusuma is deeply grateful for her residency experience, where she
had the opportunity to train alongside an incredible group of co-residents who have become lifelong colleagues and friends. During her training, she developed the skills and confidence to treat children with special healthcare needs and became proficient in providing all levels of sedation to ensure safe, comfortable care. Outside of dentistry, Dr. Suryakusuma enjoys watching sunsets at the beach, going on hikes, and playing games with her friends. She is excited to begin the next chapter of her career and is planning to move to Boston, Massachusetts to practice pediatric dentistry.
Dr. Carly Tse-Goldstein was born and raised in Sacramento, CA. As a child, she happily attended the CSPD Annual Meetings with her mother, a fellow pediatric dentist, and could often be found dancing the night away at the reception dinners or sitting quietly with a book during CE lectures. Those early memories sparked her interest in pediatric dentistry and showed her the power of organized dentistry. Now, as second-year resident at UCLA, Dr. Tse-Goldstein is committed to shaping the future of the profession by driving policy and supporting the professional growth of her peers. Dr. Tse-Goldstein earned her undergraduate degree in Psychology from Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles. Inspired by her passions for creativity, public health, and dentistry, she went on to attend the Arizona School of Dentistry & Oral Health at A.T. Still University, graduating with honors as a member of the Omicron Kappa Upsilon Dental Honor Society. Following graduation, Dr. Tse-Goldstein practiced as an associate dentist in Orange County, CA, for two years before beginning her residency at UCLA, where she now serves as chief resident of the dental operating room at UCLA’s Ronald Reagan Hospital. After residency, Dr. Tse-Goldstein plans to live her childhood dream and return home to Sacramento to join her mother and father at their dental practices, Smile Island and Weideman Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics. Outside of work, she continues to deepen her interests in photography and loves to spend quality time with her family.
CONGRATULATIONS UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SAN FRANCISCO RESIDENTS
Dr. Olivia Feng grew up in Bakersfield, California. She received her Bachelor’s in Molecular Environmental Biology at UC Berkeley and her dentistry degree from University of the Pacific, Dugoni School of Dentistry. Dr. Feng is currently finishing her pediatric dentistry residency at UCSF and is seeking associateship in San Diego, California after graduation. She is excited to build meaningful relationships while serving the children and families in her community. In her free time, she enjoys rock climbing, hiking, and painting!
Dr. Aubrey Fleming was born and raised in Annapolis, Maryland. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Nutritional Science from the University of Maryland, College Park, and her DDS from the University of Maryland School of Dentistry. She is graduating from the pediatric dentistry residency program at UCSF, where she also completed a Master of Public Health in Community Health Education. Dr. Fleming is passionate about improving access to care, particularly for underserved populations and individuals with special healthcare needs, and has been active in advocacy and leadership through CSPD. Following residency, she will relocate to an FQHC on the East Coast as part of her National Health Service Corps Scholarship commitment. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, exploring national parks, running, and spending time with her husband.
Dr. Benit Grant began her academic journey at UC Davis, earning a degree in English before completing her DDS at UCLA. She is now graduating from the pediatric dental residency program at UCSF and also earned a Master of Public Health from San José State University. During her MPH training, she conducted an oral health needs assessment for Lassen County, contributing to its Community Health Improvement Plan. Dr. Grant is passionate about expanding access to pediatric dental care and building lasting relationships with families. Outside of dentistry, she enjoys running, traveling, and spending time by the ocean with her husband and their two huskies. She will be returning to the Sacramento region and is seeking associateship opportunities.
Dr. Umer Hasan was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona, and completed his undergraduate studies at Arizona State University. He developed a passion for working with children through coaching youth basketball, tutoring underserved students, and mentoring foster youth. He earned his DDS at UCSF, where he was active in pediatric dentistry organizations, and completed his pediatric residency and Master of Public Health at UCSF and San José State University. Dr. Hasan is passionate about advancing children’s oral health and building strong connections with families. He will be returning to the Phoenix area to begin his career, with plans to contribute in both clinical and hospital settings. Outside of dentistry, he enjoys basketball, photography, travel, and time with family and friends.
Dr. Franklin Zhang was raised in Plano, Texas, and earned his B.A. in Neuroscience and Cognitive Sciences from Rice University, along with a Certificate in Spanish. He received his D.M.D. from Harvard School of Dental Medicine, where he served as ASDA Vice President and conducted teledentistry research at Boston Children’s Hospital. He is graduating from the pediatric dentistry program at UCSF and also earned an M.P.H. from San José State University, focusing on pediatric dental appointment availability in San Francisco. Dr. Zhang plans to relocate to Washington State and pursue private practice, with a focus on building strong relationships with families. Outside of dentistry, he enjoys time with his fiancée and their dog, brewing coffee, photography, and exploring new restaurants.
CONGRATULATIONS NYU LANGONESAN DIEGO RESIDENTS
Dr. Jody Chiang was born and raised in Santa Cruz, California, and spent her childhood between the U.S. and Taiwan, becoming fluent in Mandarin Chinese and developing a love for hands-on activities like knitting and music. She earned her dental degree from Roseman University College of Dental Medicine, where she received the National Health Service Corps Scholarship, held leadership roles in student organizations, and contributed to oral health research. Her passion for service led her to serve as the Santo Cortez Graduate Student Legislative Advocacy Intern for CSPD, advocating for children’s oral health in Sacramento and Washington, DC. Outside of dentistry, she enjoys spending time with her partner, Chili, and their cat, Marcus. Dr. Chiang is excited to return to Santa Cruz to serve her community and reconnect with family and friends.
Dr. Jessica Diaz was born in Upland, California and raised in Franklin, Tennessee. She returned to the West Coast to attend the University of San Diego, where she majored in Biology with minors in Chemistry and Biomedical Ethics. While working as a dental assistant in a pediatric office during college, she discovered her passion for the specialty. She earned her DDS from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in 2024 and continued her pediatric training in San Diego, where she served as a chief resident. Dr. Diaz is passionate about caring for underserved and special needs populations. In her free time, she enjoys reading at coffee shops, spending time with family, playing with her dog Wally, and exploring new cultures through food. She will be moving to Fort Lee, New Jersey, following graduation.
Dr. Regina Javier was born and raised in the sunshine state in Tampa, Florida. She attended the University of Florida where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Microbiology and Cell Sciences. After graduation, her first experience with pediatric dentistry was at her internship at Dr. Stepanksi’s Children’s Dentistry back in her hometown. Since then, she knew that working with kids would be her ultimate motivation during dental school. Regina completed dental school in Arizona at Midwestern University where she learned to love the desert and outdoor activities such as camping, running, and biking. Her first job was as a general dentist in Tucson and Yuma until moving to San Diego. After completing residency, Regina will be moving to Oregon with her husband and miniature schnauzer Koya to explore the PNW.
Dr. Sabrina Fan was born and raised in San Jose, California. She graduated from University of California, Irvine with a B.S. in Biology and completed her dental training at Linda Linda University. Sabrina’s time at Loma Linda gave her the opportunity to participate in various mission trips and service-learning experiences where she had the chance to work with children all over the world. Although her passion to serve the younger generation had started back in middle school, dental school really solidified her conviction after seeing the need for dental care and especially dental education. Sabrina is excited to work with the joy and energy that comes with the pediatric population. In her free time, Sabrina enjoys skiing and snowboarding with her family and friends. When not participating in extreme sports, she loves curling up at home binge watching TV shows.
Dr. Kenna “Thi” Nguyen was born and raised in San Jose, California. She attended USC as a Presidential Scholar, studying Biological Sciences and spending time abroad in Galway, Ireland. She went on to earn her DDS and MA in Science and Dental Education at Columbia University, where she received the Melvin L. Moss Scholarship for her commitment to education. Her passion for pediatric dentistry stems from her interest in teaching and her belief in prevention and patient education as the foundation of oral health. Outside of dentistry, she enjoys running, hiking, and camping. After residency, Dr. Nguyen and her husband will be relocating to southern Washington to enjoy the outdoors.
Dr. Therese Abely was born and raised in San Jose, California, and spent part of her childhood in Clanfield, England. A lifelong swimmer, her first job as a lifeguard and swim instructor sparked her passion for working with children. She graduated with honors from UCLA with a degree in Biology and went on to earn her dental degree from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. During dental school, she discovered her calling in pediatric dentistry and became actively involved in advocacy as a member of the American Student Dental Association’s National Advocacy Committee. Dr. Abely is passionate about serving children of all backgrounds and advancing access to care. In her free time, she enjoys traveling—working toward her goal of visiting all 50 states—and spending time with her family. She plans to remain in San Diego County after graduation, continuing to serve the pediatric population.
CONGRATULATIONS UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA RESIDENTS
Dr. Jessica Chang – Dr. Chang’s interest in pediatric dentistry started when she tutored children on skid row in undergrad. Knowing these children dealt with many stressors, she wanted to do more to help them. As Dr. Chang taught more and more students, she saw their willingness to learn and their resilience, despite changing circumstances. When Dr. Chang entered dental school, she discovered their lack of access to dental care. Since then, she has devoted herself to this community. In her free time, she enjoys spending time outdoors with her two dogs and fiancé. She enjoys hiking, traveling, and spending time with friends and family. Dr. Chang’s plans after graduation are to work in central California for a few years and later, start a practice in Orange County.
Dr. Jessica Ho – Dr. Ho learned from an early age how limited access to dental care can greatly impact families. Dr. Ho’s experiences across dental school, an AEGD residency at an FQHC, and working as a general dentist in diverse communities greatly reinforced her passion for pediatric dentistry. Training at Children's Hospital Los Angeles has given her the unique opportunity to expand her skills and perspective in providing care to children with medical complexities and special healthcare needs. Dr. Ho deeply values the connections she made with the communities she has had the privilege of serving throughout residency.
After graduation, Dr. Ho looks forward to continuing to practice in Southern California in community dentistry and private practice. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her fiancé, playing with her two cats, exploring local coffee shops, and finding new DIY projects.
Dr. Stephanie B. Lopez- Alvarado –
Volunteering with children first introduced Dr. Lopez-Alvarado to the unique rewards of pediatric dentistry and helped shape it as her chosen path. Through these experiences, she discovered a genuine passion for working with children and found great fulfillment in building meaningful connections with them, experiences that have ultimately brought her to where she is today.
Dr. Lopez-Alvarado is currently loving her residency experience and is grateful for the training it continues to provide. As she looks ahead, she is excited for the next chapter, embracing the uncertainty and the many possibilities it holds as she continues to grow both professionally and personally. Outside of dentistry, Dr.
Lopez-Alvarado enjoys hiking, exploring new restaurants, and listening to music. She also loves spending time with her partner and their dogs, which helps her stay balanced and grounded.
Dr. Leila Mahmoodi – Growing up in a big family with lots of younger cousins, Dr. Mahmoodi always knew she wanted a career working with children, and when she chose dentistry, pediatric dentistry felt like a natural fit.
During her training in both her AEGD and pediatric residency, Dr. Mahmoodi had the privilege of treating a wide range of patients with varying needs. Her time at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles has strengthened her clinical skills and approach to caring for children of all medical backgrounds. Dr. Mahmoodi thoroughly enjoyed her training and is excited to take the next step.
After graduation, Dr. Mahmoodi plans to move to the Bay Area and would love to work in both community health and private practice settings. With a little more free time after graduation, she is looking forward to spending more time with friends and family, traveling, and baking; one of her goals is to bake her way through an entire cookbook.
Dr. Jamilla Monegain – Dr. Monegain developed a passion for pediatric dentistry through her community outreach experiences at USC, where she discovered the profound impact of compassionate, child-centered care. She is particularly drawn to the psychological aspects of the field and the opportunity to create a dental environment that is fun, welcoming, and safe for children of all ages. Dr. Monegain finds it deeply rewarding to help shape positive perceptions of dentistry at an early age, fostering trust and lifelong oral health habits. Outside of dentistry, Dr. Monegain enjoys spending time outdoors, especially hiking and rock climbing. When indoors, she values quiet moments with her two cats, Milo and Moca, as well as reading. Following graduation, Dr. Monegain plans to practice as an associate in a private practice while continuing to serve and give back to the community through outreach initiatives.
Dr. Logan Okawachi – As long as he could remember, Dr. Okawachi always wanted to be a pediatric dentist. His dad is a pediatric dentist, and his mom is his dad’s office manager. Growing up running around his dad’s practice and watching him work, Dr. Okawachi became fascinated with this profession. He believes as pediatric dentists, we have a gift that we are able to provide for the young patient and their families. There is nothing more gratifying than treating pediatric patients and creating a long-lasting positive impact in their lives that will forever shape their future.
Outside of dentistry, Dr. Okawachi enjoys surfing, the outdoors, sports (baseball & soccer) and spending time with friends and family. After residency, he will be working side by side with his dad in private practice, but hopes to share his time in community dentistry as well as giving back to his residency program through teaching.
Dr. Maile Osborne – Dr. Maile Osborne is currently a second-year pediatric dental resident at the University of Southern California. She also received her M.S. in Global Medicine and D.D.S. from USC. After dental school, Dr. Osborne pursued her passion for working in community health at an FQHC and recognized the importance of improving access to specialized care for underserved children. Her experiences working and volunteering with children and those with special healthcare needs inspired her to dedicate her training to becoming a pediatric dentist. In her free time, she enjoys surfing and exploring new coffee shops with her husband. After residency, Dr. Maile is excited to return home to practice in the Bay Area.
Dr. Jonathan Plascencia – Dr. Plascencia grew up with minimal access to oral healthcare which spiked her interest to go into the health field. Working with children has always been something that he enjoys, whether it’s coaching, mentoring or doing dentistry. Dr. Plascencia enjoys spending time with family, being outdoors and cooking while watching new Netlfix series. His plan after graduation is to work in a FQHC while completing his NHSC scholarship service.
Dr. Morgan Rogers – Dr. Rogers grew up surrounded by children and always knew she wanted to work with kids in some capacity. After teaching for a year overseas, Dr. Rogers knew her love for healthcare could be combined with her love for children. Dr. Rogers went into Dental school hoping to be able to specialize in pediatrics and her love for this profession has only grown throughout residency. She loves reading and hiking in her spare-time and hopes to practice in Southern California, in the Inland Empire and Orange County after graduation. Dr. Rogers hopes to show her passion for pediatric dental care throughout her career and make a child’s smile bigger.
Dr. Kaitlyn Savage – Dr. Savage is originally from Redlands, California, and has been passionate about pediatric dentistry since an early age. She earned her DDS from Loma Linda University and is currently a second-year resident in the Advanced Pediatric Dentistry program at USC.
Outside of her training, Dr. Savage enjoys spending quality time with family and friends, traveling to new destinations, and exploring a variety of cuisines. She is also a proud cat owner—her kitten, Luca, brings great joy and energy to her life.
Following completion of her residency, Dr. Savage plans to remain in Southern California and begin her career in pediatric dentistry. She looks forward to building meaningful relationships with her patients and their families and creating positive dental experiences for children.
ADVANCING CHILDREN’S ORAL HEALTH THROUGH ADVOCACY: RESIDENT
EXPERIENCES
FROM CAPITOL HILL
Maile Osborne, DDS, MS and Jody Chiang, DDS, MS
Advocating for children’s oral health on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC was an incredibly meaningful and energizing experience that highlighted the power of organized dentistry and collective voices. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) hosted the Pediatric Oral Health Advocacy Conference (POHAC) in early March, bringing together pediatric dental residents, faculty, organized dentistry leaders, and advocates from across the country to advance policies that improve access to oral health care for children.
Our California delegation consisted of 24 members, including residents from six pediatric dental residency programs and distinguished leaders such as Drs. MyLinh Ngo (CSPD Immediate Past President), Natalie VanderKam (Current CSPD President), Evelyne VuTien (CSPD Public Policy Advocate) ,Jacob Lee (AAPD Vice President), Donald Schmitt (AAPD Western District Trustee), John Blake (AAPD Affiliate Membership Trustee), Oariona Lowe (Past WSPD and CSPD President and Chair of UCLA Dental School Board of Counselors), Francisco Ramos-Gomez (Chair of the Pediatric Dentistry Department at UCLA), James Crall (Professor and Chair of the Division of Public Health and Community Dentistry at the UCLA School of Dentistry), and Angela Navas (Faculty of the Pediatric Dentistry Department at USC). From UCLA, residents in attendance included Drs. Michelle Chiang, Mabelitza Guzman Cordero, Matthew Fasulo, Jessica Fukushima, Matthew Nguyen, Justin Thamsorn, and Damaris Arriola Zarate. Loma Linda was represented by Dr. Isabella Idea. From UCSF, attendees included Drs. Helina Tessema (CSPD/GSLA Intern) and Aubrey Fleming (CSPD/GSLA Intern). USC was represented by Drs. Alyssa Nowlen (incoming CSPD/GSLA Intern) and Maile Osborne, (CSPD/GSLA Intern). NYU Langone - San
Diego site was represented by Dr. Jody Chiang (CSPD/ GSLA Intern). Lastly, NYU was represented by Dr. Oliver Khorsandi, a resident who plans to practice in Los Angeles.
The three-day event began with a foundational day focused on education, preparation, and teamwork, including an overview of the legislative process and training on effective communication with members of Congress. The following two days were dedicated to meetings on Capitol Hill, where our California team engaged with 26 congressional offices to discuss key pediatric oral health issues.
These meetings were both empowering and humbling, as we represented our profession and advocated for
genuine interest in these perspectives, gaining a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by pediatric patients and their families and exploring ways to support AAPD’s oral health initiatives.
We focused on three key legislative priorities. First, we advocated for continued support of the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Pediatric Dentistry Training Program through Title VII, which serves as a critical safety net for vulnerable children on Medi-Cal while expanding the pediatric dental workforce and supporting future faculty development. Second, we urged support for the Ensuring Lasting Smiles Act (ELSA), which ensures comprehensive coverage for medically necessary dental and oral surgical treatments, particularly for children with craniofacial anomalies and congenital conditions. Finally, we emphasized the importance of strengthening federal oral health infrastructure, including re-establishing the Division of Oral Health within the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and maintaining the Chief Dental Officer position. These efforts are essential for effective oversight of programs such as Medicaid, Medicare, and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and underscore the need for dental expertise at the federal level.
A particularly meaningful aspect of this experience was the strong representation from California. The POHAC team from California achieved 100% participation in supporting the AAPD Political Action Committee (PAC). This level of engagement reflects a deep commitment to supporting leaders and policymakers who prioritize children’s access to dental care and champion legislation that strengthens pediatric oral health systems nationwide.
Overall, this experience fostered strong camaraderie among attendees and reinforced the importance of engaging in advocacy beyond clinical care. POHAC demonstrated that our collective voices can influence policy and improve the lives of children. With the support of CSPD, the CSPD Foundation, AAPD, and the AAPD PAC, we can continue to advocate for and care for the next generation, giving them the smiles they wholeheartedly deserve.
Our California delegation consisted of 24 members, including residents from six pediatric dental residency programs and distinguished leaders such as Drs. MyLinh Ngo (CSPD Immediate Past President), Natalie VanderKam (Current CSPD President), Evelyne VuTien (CSPD Public Policy Advocate) ,Jacob Lee (AAPD Vice President), Donald Schmitt (AAPD Western District Trustee), John Blake (AAPD Affiliate Membership Trustee), Oariona Lowe (Past WSPD and CSPD President and Chair of UCLA Dental School Board of Counselors), Francisco Ramos-Gomez (Chair of the Pediatric Dentistry Department at UCLA), James Crall (Professor and Chair of the Division of Public Health and Community Dentistry at the UCLA School of Dentistry), and Angela Navas (Faculty of the Pediatric Dentistry Department at USC). From UCLA, residents in attendance included Drs. Michelle Chiang, Mabelitza Guzman Cordero, Matthew Fasulo, Jessica Fukushima, Matthew Nguyen, Justin Thamsorn, and Damaris Arriola Zarate. Loma Linda was represented by Dr. Isabella Idea. From UCSF, attendees included Drs. Helina Tessema (CSPD/GSLA Intern) and Aubrey Fleming (CSPD/GSLA Intern). USC was represented by Drs. Alyssa Nowlen (incoming CSPD/GSLA Intern) and Maile Osborne, (CSPD/GSLA Intern). NYU Langone - San Diego site was represented by Dr. Jody Chiang (CSPD/GSLA Intern). Lastly, NYU was represented by Dr. Oliver Khorsandi, a resident who plans to practice in Los Angeles.
CSPD ADVOCACY IN ACTION: ADVANCING PEDIATRIC ORAL HEALTH
Evelyne Vu-Tien, DDS, MBA, Public Health Advocate
The California Society of Pediatric Dentistry (CSPD) continues to lead statewide and national efforts to advance pediatric oral health and ensure the success of our profession through advocacy, in-person testimonies, and strategic planning with state public health partners. Over the past several months, CSPD members have engaged in high-profile legislative meetings with key legislative members, participated in statewide advisory panels, supported education and development of future leaders through the Graduate Student Legislative Advocacy (GSLA) program, and contributed to critical discussions on access to care, patient safety, and public health initiatives such as community water fluoridation.
These collective efforts reflect CSPD’s ongoing commitment to ensuring that policy decisions are informed by scientific and specialty expertise, evidence-based practice, and the needs of all children and families. CSPD has been an active participant in the California Dental Association (CDA) - CSPD Advocacy Day in February, as the only dental specialty invited to participate. CSPD helped organize the largest California contingent in the history of the Pediatric Oral Health Advocacy Conference in March, with 100% of participants contributing to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) Political Action Committee (PAC), the largest number from any state. Lastly, there will be an update on the Medi-Cal Children’s Advisory Committee and involvement with CDA’s Emergency Department Dental Utilization Ad-Hoc Committee, comprised of public health partners.
CDA–CSPD Advocacy Day 2026 Inform Legislative Leaders
The California Society of Pediatric Dentistry (CSPD), led by the California Dental Association (CDA), proudly participated in Advocacy Day at the State Capitol on February 9th with current CSPD president, Dr. Natalie VanderKam, Dr. Evelyne Vu-Tien (Public Policy Advocate), CSPD interns Dr. Maile Osborne Dr. Jody Chiang, Dr. Aubrey Fleming, Dr. Helina Tessema, Dr. Santos Cortez (past CSPD president and CDA Foundation Director), and by CDA team members: Ms. Brianna Pittman-Spenser, Mr. Eric Dowdy, and Mr. Lawrence Gayden, and Ms. Mary McCune. This annual event provides pediatric dentists with a powerful platform to engage with legislators and advocate for policies that impact the oral health of children and the pediatric dentists who care for
them.
CSPD met with key staff members from the offices of Assemblymember Dawn Adddis, Sade Ellhawary, and La Shae Sharp-Collins, as well as Senator Lola SmallwoodCuevas. The key focus during discussions was changing the proposed elimination of Proposition 56 supplemental funding, which would result in a nearly $1 billion cut, including a $576 million loss of federal matching. This would bring reimbursements down to levels comparable to those in the 1990s and place California 48th out of 50th in terms of Medicaid reimbursement rates. Millions of families and children would be affected, as 15 million people are covered under Denti-Cal (half of whom are children). Since 2020, dental office visits have increased by 37%, and these cuts would result in 49% of 1,500 dentists polled to close their offices, worsening access to care. We spoke about how shortterm savings costs would result in alarming long-term costs and suffering for our communities, as preventive, equitable, and timely care is drastically reduced.
We spoke about reinforcing the importance of Children’s Dental Health Month and discussed links between oral and systemic health, as well as the association between dental pain and decreased school attendance. Emphasis was placed on preventing dental disease rather than treating symptoms through education and early awareness, so that dental decay can be mitigated and long-term health care costs reduced.
AB 1629, the Dental Insurance Reform and Transparency Act, introduced by Assemblymember Haney, was discussed. This act would mandate that dental insurance companies pay out-of-network providers directly, rather than paying the beneficiary for dental services, thereby eliminating the costly and time-consuming process of obtaining reimbursements. The bill would also require dental plans to provide accurate provider network data and realtime benefit information through a standard online portal so patients can make informed decisions. These reforms would help patients understand treatment costs and reduce unexpected financial obligations, facilitating communication between patients and their insurance plans.
GSLA Legislative Showcase Educates Members on Anesthesia Accountability, Kindergarten Oral Health Assessment, and Dental Health Governance
On February 24th, CSPD held its inaugural GSLA Legislative Showcase, which featured year-long research projects by pediatric dental residents Dr. Jody Chiang, Dr. Maile Osborne, and Dr. Helina Tessema. The GSLA Interns are sponsored through generous donations by the CSPD Foundation. Hosted by Dr. Evelyne Vu-Tien, the webinar emphasized CSPD’s mission to advance children’s oral health through education, advocacy, and patient safety.
Dr. Chiang’s Kindergarten Oral Health Assessment Data Review spanned over a 10-year period. Her mentor was Dr. Santos Cortez. This project examined trends in California’s KOHA program, a key preventive initiative that requires dental screening prior to school entry and raises awareness of the importance of early preventive dental visits. Key findings showed that statewide assessment rates declined from approximately 62% in 2011 to 51% in 2019, then dropped sharply to 35% in 2020. Some data could have been omitted if they did not meet stringent reporting requirements, and only 21 of 58 counties met criteria for consistent, reliable data. Collection numbers varied widely across California counties. Counties with lower assessment rates often demonstrated higher untreated caries. There are barriers to KOHA participation, including a lack of dedicated funding for implementation, limited access to dental screening providers, and school systems that prioritize other needs over oral health programs.
Dr. Maile Osborne’s topic was entitled, “Incidents to Insights: Reporting Sedation Adverse Outcomes in Pediatric Dentistry”, and she was mentored by Dr. Rebecca Renelus. The study examined the safety of pediatric dental sedation and highlighted the need for improved adverse-event reporting systems. The goal was for providers to be prepared to recognize and manage adverse events, including airway compromise and respiratory depression. Currently, there exists only mandatory reporting of patient deaths related to dental procedures and unplanned hospital transfers following sedations. There are a lack of a standardized classification and a centralized, mandatory reporting database; as a result, accurate incidence rates cannot be calculated.
Dr. Helina Tessema, with mentor Dr. Jessica Chiang, explored dental health governance in California alongside special advisors Tooka Zokaie, MPH, MAS, CPH (CDA Senior Health Policy Analyst), and Mary McCune, JD (CDA Policy Director, Executive Director of CDA Foundation). This project examined how dental health policy is structured and implemented across federal, state, and local systems in the state. The origins of Propositions 56 and 35 were
reviewed, along with local sugary beverage taxes and their implementation.
The GSLA Legislative Showcase is now available on our newly revamped CSPD Website, offering 1.5 continuing education credits for those who did not have the opportunity to view it.
Medi-Cal Children’s Health Advisory Panel (MCHAP) Underscores Community Outreach Programs
One focus of the meeting was California’s performance under the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment (EPSDT) program, also known as Medi-Cal for Kids & Teens.
EPSDT ensures that children receive comprehensive preventive, diagnostic, and treatment services from birth through age 21. California was discovered to be lagging behind national benchmarks in early childhood well-child visits (before age 1), with only 75% of youth screened compared to the national average of 90%, due to care coordination gaps, limited network access, and barriers to well-child visits, such as delays in newborn enrollment into Medi-Cal. Statewide efforts are underway to expand community clinics to include evening and weekend hours and to target outreach to families who are not utilizing EPSDT services.
The Enhanced Care Management (ECM) for Children with Special Health Needs program is a core Medi-Cal benefit that supports children enrolled in California Children’s Services (CCS). With 5,593 children enrolled, this number represents only 3% of the eligible population, therefore an effort is underway to expand utilization. By connecting families with services, there will be stronger social support systems, such as food programs, that will benefit the child’s growth and health.
CSPD Pediatric Specialty Inaugural Lobby Day with Chad Mayes Deemed a Success
On March 17–18, Drs. Natalie VanderKam, Dr. Mitch Poiset, Dr. Aubrey Fleming, Dr. Jim Musser, and Dr. Evelyne Vu-Tien were active in our first-ever lobby day on behalf of CSPD members, led by our own CSPD lobbyist Chad Mayes. We participated in two days of focused legislative advocacy meetings in Sacramento, engaging directly with key legislative staff members from the health and budget committees to advance critical priorities affecting children’s oral health across California.
These meetings centered on protecting access to care, strengthening the Medi-Cal Dental program, and ensuring that pediatric oral health remains a legislative priority in upcoming budget decisions. Among the offices visited were those of Assemblymembers Solache, Patterson, Schiavo, and Stefani; the Senate Health Committee; and Senators Menjivar and Grove. Our primary focus was to convey the message of the future, debilitating damage that would occur if supplemental Proposition 56 funding were to cease: millions of children would suffer advanced dental disease, and half of the dental offices currently accepting Denti-Cal would be forced to close.
We illustrated the long-term ramifications of Proposition 56 cuts. We emphasized that emergency departments would become overstrained, and overall health costs would rise in the long term. 10 counties currently have no Medi-Cal dental providers, and these cuts would significantly reduce access to care for children, particularly in underserved and rural communities. We described the daunting reality that advanced dental disease would lead to an increase in hospital-based treatment and general anesthesia, yet the current waiting list for most residency programs was a 4-to 12-month average. A pediatric full-mouth rehabilitation case costs ~$10,000 per child. CSPD continues to be recognized as a trusted voice in pediatric oral health policy, and the information was well-received.
CSPD and Health Leaders Work Diligently to Protect Community Water Fluoridation
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has initiated a fast-track review of the potential health effects of fluoride exposure, with particular focus on neurodevelopment and cognitive outcomes in children. This review has raised concerns among dental and public health organizations due to the incomplete use of robust scientific data and the poor quality of the studies to be used.
In response, the California Dental Association (CDA), along with over 140 organizations, advocated for the use of highquality, population-based studies that reflect fluoridation levels used in the United States. Dr. Michael Suh, CSPD Director and PPA Committee member, drafted a letter sent to the EPA to urge them to use studies within the typical 0.7 mg/L levels used in community water fluoridation and include scientific reviews that include well-established benefits to the reduction of dental disease
A recent case during the Olivenhain Municipal Water District on January 21 and March 18th involved fluoridation, which was at risk of being discontinued due to cost increase and operational challenges. Dr. Evelyne Vu-Tien, San Diego County Dental Society leaders, CDA’s Tooka Zokaie, and Chief Consultant in Fluoride Technical Assistance to the California Department of Public Health, pediatrician Dr. Susan Fisher-Owens, provided factual, scientific, and personal accounts on why fluoride should be maintained to benefit the oral health of all. Overall, 18 individuals testified in the past several months, including 10 dentists, all supporting fluoridation, and the initial motion to discontinue fluoridation failed in a 4–1 vote. At the follow-up meeting, continued advocacy led the board to choose to invest in and maintain fluoridation rather than eliminate it. This situation demonstrates the effectiveness of organized dentistry in countering misinformation and combining advocacy fronts on the local and state levels to influence policy decisions.
Emergency Department Utilization Dental Committee Workgroup & Ad Hoc Committee Meets Quarterly to Reduce Impact of Dental Emergencies and Assess Access to Care Issues
Recent discussions from the Emergency Department Utilization for Dental Conditions (EDUDC) Workgroup and Ad Hoc Committee highlight ongoing statewide efforts to reduce non-traumatic dental condition (NTDC) visits in emergency
departments and improve coordination between medical and dental fields.
New statewide data from the Health Care Access and Information (HCAI) portal provides valuable insight into dental-related emergency department visits. There exists a disproportionately high ED utilization rate for dental disease in certain regions, with 72% of cases concentrated in Northern and Sierra counties. Significant variation is apparent across counties, highlighting geographic disparities in access to dental care.
The Workgroup identified several ongoing barriers contributing to high ED utilization for dental conditions: limited access to timely dental care in certain regions due to a lack of dental providers in the area, and gaps in ED providers’ education regarding dental diagnosis and management. Stay tuned for an article to be published in the state-wide emergency physician journal, Lifeline, this year, written by emergency physician Dr. Alicia Mikolaycik-Gonzalez https:// bridgetotreatment.org/team/alicia-mikolaycik-gonzalez/ and Dr. Evelyne Vu-Tien on treating dental emergencies in the ED.
Future opportunities the committee identified included: tracking dental-related ED visits by county and payer, evaluating provider-to-patient ratios to identify workforce gaps, improving data on anesthesia services, linking water fluoridation maps to high ED utilization, and supporting evidence-based recommendations for policymakers and healthcare leaders. The Care Coordination Referral Form was created to improve communication between emergency departments, medical providers, and dental teams. Ongoing efforts are underway to disseminate the form to school nurses, urgent care providers, foster care providers, FQHCs, and emergency departments. This tool represents a critical step toward ensuring that patients seen in medical settings are connected to definitive dental care.
Siskiyou County, which has the highest emergency department dental visits and the fewest dental providers, has introduced a telehealth program spearheaded by Dr. Paul Glassman, Associate Dean for Research and Community Engagement at California Northstate University. The program components include remote dental assessments conducted in school and community settings, training hygienists to provide basic preventive and early treatment services, and collaborating with local organizations to coordinate follow-up care. Early results are encouraging, and this pilot program could represent an invaluable model for other counties to follow.
The California Society of Pediatric Dentistry (CSPD) continues to lead statewide advocacy efforts to protect and advance pediatric oral health through legislative engagement, education, and public health initiatives. Over recent months, CSPD members have met with policymakers, participated in advisory panels, and contributed to key discussions on patient safety and community water fluoridation. A primary focus has been opposing the proposed elimination of Proposition 56 supplemental funding, which would significantly reduce access to care for millions of children. These collective efforts reinforce CSPD’s role, which would not have been possible without our members’ support.
AS I L I NG TOWARD HEALTHY S M I
Were you unable to attend this year’s CSPD Annual Meeting? Or want to revisit your favorites? A selection of recorded sessions is now available through CSPD’s Online Continuing Education platform.
Featuring presentations on:
• Esthetic restorative techniques for pediatric and teen patients
• Adolescent growth modification
• Vaping and oral health
• Endodontics in immature permanent dentition
• AI in dentistry and practice management
• Youth mental health in pediatric dentistry
BUNDLE & SAVE
· Full value: $650
· Annual Bundle: $520 (20% savings)
Access high-quality CE content anytime, anywhere—at your convenience.
GET STARTED TODAY
Visit CSPD’s Online CE platform at https://www.cspd.org/ to purchase the Annual Meeting Bundle and begin earning CE credits. For questions or assistance, contact admin@cspd.org. EARN UP TO 13 CE
WSPD PRESIDENT REPORT
Harlyn K. Susarla, DMD, MPH - WSPD President
The Western Society of Pediatric Dentistry (WSPD) was proud to join colleagues at the recent CSPD meeting, celebrating a partnership that continues to be a driving force in our district’s success. With California members making up more than half of WSPD’s membership, the connection between our organizations is not only strong—it’s essential.
The WSPD leadership team remains hard at work advancing our mission to support state chapters and serve as a bridge to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD). Guided by our motto, “Better All Together,” our Executive Committee—Dr. Tom Tanbonliong (WA), Dr. Natasha Bramley (OR), Dr. Sarah Hulland (BC), Dr. Hani Eid (WA), and Dr. Rob McAlpine (AK)—continues to champion collaboration, advocacy, and professional growth across the district. We are also grateful for the leadership of our Western District Trustee, Dr. Don Schmitt, and AAPD Vice President, CSPD and WSPD member, Dr. Jacob Lee. As you can see, our district has representation at all levels.
This past year has been filled with momentum, particularly in supporting the next generation of pediatric dentists. WSPD proudly sponsored eight residents and our leadership intern to attend the Pediatric Oral Health Advocacy Conference in Washington, DC, thanks to the generous support of Elevate Oral Healthcare. Representing programs across the district were our leadership intern, Dr. Chih-Khieh (Sandy) Huang (WA), as well as the following residents: Dr. Alyssa Nowlen (USC, CA), Dr. Esther Gao (OHSU, OR), Dr. Jacob Foncea (U of U, UT), Dr. Anjali Sorathia (UNLV, NV), Dr. Heather Bogy (NYU Langone, HI), Dr. Min Kim (NYU Langone, AZ), Dr. Dayna Thai (NYU Langone, AZ), and Dr. Max Black (UW, WA). Of note, California stood out with the largest delegation—and an impressive 100% participation rate in PAC contributions, including all participating residents from California—serving as a model for engagement and advocacy efforts across not only other states in our district, but nationally!
We also celebrated outstanding resident scholarship this year. In the case presentation category, top honors went to Dr. Myles Wheeler (UCSF), followed by Dr. Isabella Idea and Dr. Manasi Kanade (both from Loma Linda). In research, Dr. Rata Rokhshad (Loma Linda) earned first place, with Dr. Valerie Penarubia (Loma Linda) and Dr. Tuan Danny Do (UCLA) rounding out the top three.
Of course, it wasn’t all business—WSPD was also proud to sponsor the Saturday Night Carnival at the CSPD meeting, which was truly a highlight of the weekend. With great food, fun games, and a vibrant, relaxed atmosphere, the event offered a perfect setting for members and their families to connect, unwind, and strengthen relationships in a more informal and memorable way.
Looking ahead, we’re excited for what’s next. Be sure to join us at the WSPD District Membership Caucus on
Congratulations to AAPD award winners Hani Eid, Harlyn Susarla, and Jessica Robertson! Hani is the recipient of the Ann Page Griffin Humanitarian Award, Harlyn the Jerome B. Miller “For the Kids” Award and Jessica received the Merle C. Hunter Leadership Award. This is well deserved recognition for three outstanding individuals who truly embody the Academy’s mission of optimal oral health for all children. Well done and thank you Hani, Harlyn, and Jessica for all you do for our profession and the children we serve!
AAPD AWARD WINNERS FROM THE WESTERN DISTRICT
Dr. Donald Schmitt - AAPD Western District Trustee (2024-2027)
POHAC 2026
POHAC 2026 in March was a resounding success. Every year more residents attend, giving the Academy an even bigger voice on Capitol Hill. Special thanks to CSPD PPA Evelynne Vu-Tien for expertly organizing the very large California contingent. Kudos as well to Bri Butler and Team Washington for yet another strong showing. Thank you also to the WSPD Board for supporting Dr. Alyssa Nowlen’s participation as the StAMP fund recipient. Both the CSPD and WSPD leadership wisely invest in intern programs that are very successful in developing future leaders for organized dentistry.
The three asks for Congressional offices this year were: 1. Support oral health training by providing FY 2027 funding of $46 million for the HRSA Title VII Primary Care Dental Training Cluster and related oral health programs, with not less than $14 million for the Pediatric Dentistry Training programs. 2. Support passage of the bipartisan Ensuring Lasting Smiles Act (ELSA) legislation that would ensure health coverage for medically necessary dental/ oral surgical treatment for children born with craniofacial
anomalies and birth defects. 3. Restore critical federal oral health infrastructure. Congress must support key dental positions and agencies that help ensure effective administration and oversight of federal programs and monies designed to improve the nation’s oral health, including CMS, HRSA, CDC, and NIH.
Jessica Y Lee Named AAPD CEO
The AAPD has announced that Jessica Y. Lee, DDS, MPH, PhD, will become its next Chief Executive Officer, transitioning June 1, 2026. A nationally and internationally recognized leader in pediatric dentistry, academic innovation, and health policy, Dr. Lee brings decades of experience and a forward-looking vision to the organization.
As CEO, Dr. Lee will oversee AAPD’s strategic priorities across advocacy, education, and research, while strengthening partnerships that support innovation and professional growth. Her leadership will play a central role in advancing the Academy’s mission to ensure that all children have access to safe, high-quality oral health care.
“It is a tremendous honor and privilege to serve as the next CEO of AAPD,” Dr. Lee said. “Together, we will build on the Academy’s strong foundation to expand access, embrace innovation, and empower pediatric dentists to deliver exceptional care for children and families.”
CSPD San Diego
What an amazing meeting in March in San Diego! Kudos to CSPD for hosting another great event and a special shout out to Leslie Butler who knocked it out of the park on her first time as Chair of the Annual Meeting Committee. The CE was top notch, the food was excellent, and the weather was San Diego at its best. Thank you to the WSPD and all the sponsors without whose support these meetings would not be possible. I hope to see you all next March in Monterey!
Leadership Institute Cohort VIII
The next Cohort of the John S. Rutkauskas Leadership Institute at Kellogg was announced in April and the roster is stacked with talent. It includes many talented individuals from the Western District. At the time of writing this article, the final notifications were still being made, but the roster should be publicly available soon. Cohort VIII will begin their epic journey in December 2026. Even though applications for the next Cohort won’t be available for 3 years, it’s never too early to start thinking about applying. It’s a truly life changing experience. Congratulations to the members of Cohort VIII!
AAPD Las Vegas
Annual Session 2026 in Las Vegas is shaping up to be a great meeting. The Opening Session features a tribute to CEO John Rutkauskas and his 26 years of incredible service to our Academy. Thank you John! The Welcome Reception on Friday night at the Ceasars Forum Plaza highlights Kevin Griffin of Better Than Ezra, John Ondrasik of Five for Fighting, and Robin Wilson and Jesse Valenzuela of Gin Blossoms perform the hit songs that defined a generation—including Good, Superman (It’s Not Easy), 100 Years, and Hey Jealousy—while sharing the stories behind them. The Presidents Farewell Dinner on Sunday will be an unforgettable evening at the
BOARD MEETING MARCH 12, 2026
MOTION 2026 03.12.01: Approval of the Agenda. MOTION CARRIED
MOTION 2026. 03.12.02: Approval of the Minutes of the November 15, 2025, Meeting of the CSPD Board of Directors. MOTION CARRIED
MOTION 2026. 03.12.03: Approval of the Consents Reports & Submissions. MOTION CARRIED
MOTION 2026. 03.12.04: CSPD in a position of support on AB1629. MOTION CARRIED
MOTION 2026. 03.12.05: CSPD in a position of support on AB2029. MOTION CARRIED
MOTION 2026. 03.12.06: CSPD in a position of support on AB1952. MOTION CARRIED
MOTION 2026. 03.12.07: CSPD Board Calendar to be included in the Policy and Procedure Manual. MOTION CARRIED
CALIFORNIA SOCIETY OF PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY
ELECTED AND APPOINTED LEADERSHIP
A complete listing of committee appointments may be found at www.cspd.org
OFFICERS
Immediate Past President: MyLinh Ngo
President: Natalie Vander Kam
Vice President: Pardis Farhadian
Secretary: Shan Girn
Treasurer: Rahul Nagda
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
North 2024 – 2026: Cheryl Willett
South 2024 – 2026: Laura McCormack
At Large 2024 – 2026: Ella Saeed
North 2025 – 2027: Helen Mo
North 2025 – 2027: Jean Star
South 2025 – 2027: Evelyne Vu-Tien
South 2025 – 2027: Maryam Meschi
At Large 2026 – 2028: Raj Dail
APPOINTED OFFICERS
Web Site Editor: Leticia Edwards
Bulletin Managing Editor: Chanel McCreedy
Public Policy Advocate: Evelyne Vu-Tien
CONTACTS AND LIAISONS
AAPD District V (WSPD) Trustee:
Don Schmitt
AAPD Liaison (Board Member): Cat Pham
WSPD Liaison (Board Member):
Amanda Effat
CSPD AAP Chapter Liaisons:
Chapter 1 – Jonathon Lee
Chapter 2 – Reem Kabbarah
Chapter 3 – John Guijon
Chapter 4 – Wai Yin Chan
Annual Meeting Sponsor Relations Liaison: Ora Lowe
California Dental Society of Anesthesiology Liaison: David Rothman
CSPD Foundation President: Rebecca Lee
CSPD Foundation Liaison (Ex Officio Immediate Past President): MyLinh Ngo
Advisor to the Public Policy Advocate –Legislative Affairs: Santos Cortez
Advisor to the Public Policy Advocate –Dental Board of California: Paul Reggiardo
CSPD REPRESENTATIVES TO THE WSPD BOARD
CSPD President (Ex Officio): Natalie Vander Kam
CSPD Vice President (Ex Officio): Pardis Farhadian
CSPD Liaison to the WSPD Board: Ella Saeed
CSPD Representative to the WSPD Board: Amanda Effat
BOARD MEMBER – LEADERSHIP INTERN
Warren Brandli Internship (WBI) Interns:
• Angela Angelova (UCSF)
• Michelle Chiang (UCLA)
Santos Cortez Graduate Student (GSLA) Interns:
• Alyssa Nowlen (USC)
• Myles Wheeler (UCSF)
• Daniel Juarez (NYU Langone)
STAFF
Administrative Director & CSPD Operations Manager: Andrea Elliott
UPCOMING EVENTS
March 11-14, 2027
2027
March 23-26, 2028
2028
CSPD PROFESSIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
Have you been thinking about hiring an associate, but just aren't sure where to look? Or are you finishing your residency soon, and aren't sure where you'd like to live and practice?
The answer is right on the CSPD website. To look at these opportunities and others, go to www.cspd.org
• Opportunities Wanted
• Opportunities Available
• Faculty Positions Available
• Practices for Sale
CALIFORNIA SOCIETY OF PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY
PO Box 5081 La Quinta, CA 92248
The Safest Solution for Pediatric & Adult Anesthesia
Two Patient Care Location Options: In the convenience of your office 1 2 At our state-of-the-art pediatric surgery center, near The Irvine Spectrum
Patient SAFETY is Our Number 1 Priority
• Twelve years and 10,000+ cases with an impeccable safety record & the same safety standards found in Children's Hospitals
• We eliminate the risk of aspiration, enabling you to use water during the procedure
Mobisurg Provides the Highest QUALITY of Care
• Our physicians are all board-certified and fellowship-trained in Pediatric Anesthesia
• We meet & exceed all the criteria of SB 501 requirements for providing pediatric anesthesia
• We meet & exceed all the criteria of SB 501 requirements for providing pediatric anesthesia
GROW Your Practice with Mobisurg
GROW Your Practice with Mobisurg
• Caring for patients of ALL ages & co-existing medical problems
• Caring for patients of ALL ages & co-existing medical problems
• We bill medical insurance & are contracted with some major providers
• We bill medical insurance & are contracted with some major providers
