Deciding which dental hygienist conference to attend can be as difficult as scaling that one last piece of calculus. Luckily, we've got you covered. Here are three conferences that can take your dental hygiene career to a new level.

CDA Anaheim

Both the CDA and CDHA are present at California's largest dental convention, CDA Anaheim, which takes place May 12-14, 2016, at The Anaheim Convention Center. The event is open to all dental professionals; registration is free with a CDA membership, and $20 for nonmembers. And with over 28,000 attendees, 200 courses and 550 exhibitors, you will want to register early. One course featured this year that is appealing to dental hygienists is "Managing Caries: New Thinking, New Opportunities" – presented by Douglas Young, DDS, and sponsored by Colgate. To ensure you have a seat, reserve it for $10 on the CDA website.

You'll have access to a whole host of events at CDA Anaheim, including workshops and express lectures. The California Dental Hygienists' Association (CDHA) will be hosting table clinics, and courses will be taking place at The Sheraton Anaheim just steps away from the Convention Center. CDA Anaheim is family-friendly and located across the street from "The Happiest Place On Earth" (yes, even Mickey loves CDA). After sitting all day, you can purchase your "Twilight Ticket" and enjoy a discounted rate for Disneyland through your CDA attendance.

ADHA's CLL

ADHA's 93rd National Convention CLL 2016 will take place June 8-14, 2016 in Pittsburgh, PA. More than 1,000 attendees and 100 exhibitor booths will converge, with courses dedicated to improving your skills in common hygiene procedures, educate you on these and allow you to better your chairside performance. Early registration is $199 for ADHA Members.

Sponsored by companies including Colgate, this conference will host meetings, workshops, keynote speakers and a variety of continuing education courses that cater to dental hygienists in all stages of their careers. Community service events will take place, and join ADHA in support of the Institute for Oral Health. You can specifically register for The First Annual "In Motion 5k Fundraiser" fun run/walk to benefit the school.

While you're there, explore Pittsburgh, home to such famous landmarks as the Andy Warhol Museum. Dining and shopping can also be found within walking distance from many downtown hotels.

RDH Under One Roof

RDH Under One Roof is a favorite among many and is known for a classic red carpet experience. This year, the expo takes place July 28-30 at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland.

With more than 1,300 attendees and 100 exhibitors, you'll see some of the best presenters in dental hygiene. This three-day conference includes several networking receptions as well as lunches, and offers you up to 20 CEUs for just $335. Colgate sponsors RDH Under One Roof with several courses meant to build your knowledge for tomorrow's challenges. One particular workshop to keep an eye on is "How to Get Patients to Do What You Want Them to Do When You Are Not There," presented by Ann Spolarich, RDH, PhD and JoAnn Gurenlian, RDH, MS, PhD.

The conference also has many general sessions, keynotes and workshops to appeal to anyone looking to advance their skills and polish their resumes (no pun intended). Laser courses, career development and self-help courses are waiting for you as well. Plan early and explore Washington DC, it's just 15 minutes away from National Harbor!

Deciding which conference to attend is difficult when you look into these top three favorites. Whether you choose sunny California beaches, Pennsylvania charm or DC history your itinerary will not disappoint.

Takeaways

• CDA Anaheim is a great conference for the whole dental team to attend.
• ADHA can provide some unique opportunities, like volunteering for workshops in underserved areas of Pittsburgh.
• RDH Under One Roof has the top presenters in attendance, and is great for polishing up your resume and networking with fellow RDHs.

Why It's Valuable

A dental hygienist conference provides fantastic opportunities for you to polish your skills and earn credits toward your next set of certifications. So put down your scalers, pack your suitcase and invest in your future.