The future of endodontics took center stage at the AAE26 Resident Reception, where residents from programs across the country gathered for an evening of connection, conversation, and community.
Held at the Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City, this dedicated event offered a welcoming space for the specialty’s newest members to step away from the meeting schedule and focus on building meaningful professional relationships. Throughout the hour, residents connected with peers, reconnected with colleagues from dental school, and expanded their networks in a relaxed, informal setting.
With food, drinks, and a lively atmosphere, the reception struck the perfect balance between fun and professional growth. Conversations flowed easily as attendees shared experiences, discussed career paths, and strengthened the bonds that will carry forward into their careers.
As AAE26 highlighted innovation and excellence across the specialty, the Resident Reception served as a powerful reminder that its future is in capable hands. The energy, enthusiasm, and engagement on display made this event a standout moment of the meeting—and a meaningful investment in the next generation of endodontists.
From April 15–18, endodontists from around the world gathered in Salt Lake City for AAE26—four dynamic days of learning, connection, and inspiration that once again affirmed the Annual Meeting as the premier event in endodontics.
Held at the Salt Palace Convention Center, this year’s meeting delivered on its promise: exceptional education, hands-on experiences, and countless opportunities to reconnect with colleagues and build new professional relationships.
A World-Class Educational Experience
AAE26 offered a comprehensive and diverse educational program designed to meet the needs of clinicians, educators, and researchers alike. Attendees engaged with trusted speakers, explored the latest techniques and research, and participated in hands-on workshops that brought clinical concepts to life.
From general sessions and specialty lectures to oral, poster, and table clinic presentations, the meeting provided a platform for sharing knowledge and advancing the science of endodontics. Participants also had the opportunity to earn continuing education credits while gaining practical insights they can bring back to their practices.
Innovation on Display
The Exhibit Hall remained a central hub of activity throughout the meeting, featuring more than 100 exhibitors showcasing the latest products, technologies, and services shaping the future of endodontic care.
With interactive demonstrations, product showcases, and corporate presentations, attendees explored new tools and solutions designed to enhance efficiency and elevate patient care. The exhibit experience also fostered meaningful conversations between clinicians and industry leaders, reinforcing the collaborative spirit of the specialty.
Connection, Community, and Career Growth
Beyond the lecture halls and exhibit floor, AAE26 offered numerous opportunities for networking and professional development. From alumni and affiliate events to the career fair connecting employers with endodontists across the country, the meeting created space for meaningful connections at every stage of a career.
As always, some of the most valuable moments happened between sessions—in hallway conversations, shared meals, and spontaneous reunions that sparked new ideas and strengthened long-standing relationships.
Celebrating the Specialty
AAE26 also highlighted the achievements and leadership within the profession through key events such as the President’s Breakfast, General Assembly, and the Edgar D. Coolidge Awards Brunch—moments that recognized excellence and honored those who continue to move the specialty forward.
The meeting concluded with a high-energy closing reception, where attendees gathered one last time to celebrate a successful week and the vibrant community that defines endodontics.
Looking Ahead
AAE26 showcased not only where the specialty is today, but where it is headed—driven by innovation, collaboration, and a shared commitment to saving natural teeth. As attendees return home with new knowledge, fresh ideas, and renewed inspiration, the impact of this year’s meeting will continue to shape practices and patient care in the months and years ahead.
Stay tuned for a full album of memorable moments to be shared by us in the coming days!
The American Association of Endodontists recognized outstanding resident research and clinical presentations at the 2026 Annual Meeting, honoring excellence across oral research, poster research, and table clinic categories.
Oral Research Presentation Winners
Top honors in Oral Research were awarded to residents representing leading endodontic programs across the country:
1st Place: Marwan Al-Barrak, University of Texas at San Antonio
2nd Place: Tanner Nieman, University of Washington
3rd Place: Darian Shomali, University of Texas at San Antonio
4th Place: Stuti Desai, University of Illinois at Chicago
5th Place: Capt. Christiana Redmond, Wilford Hall USAF Medical Center
6th Place: Wyatt Nguyen, Rutgers School of Dental Medicine
7th Place: Andrew Grinsell, University of Pennsylvania
8th Place: Tami Kim, Rutgers School of Dental Medicine
9th Place: Arvin Alexander, Augusta University
10th Place: Angeline Harville, University of Michigan
Poster Research Presentation Winners
Residents were also recognized for excellence in poster research presentations:
1st Place: Keyvan Nikghalb, University of California at San Francisco
2nd Place: Jia Huang, Rutgers School of Dental Medicine
3rd Place: Nadasinee Jaruchotiratanasakul, University of Pennsylvania
4th Place: Noah Gasner, University of Toronto
5th Place: Alissa Brewer, Wilford Hall USAF Medical Center
6th Place: Ching-Shuan Jolly Huang, Harvard School of Dental Medicine
7th Place: Keriann Jimenez, Virginia Commonwealth University
8th Place: Shahd Almasswary, University of Pennsylvania
9th Place: Cameron Gray, University of Nebraska
10th Place: Adam Sgro, University of Toronto
Table Clinic Presentation Winners
The Table Clinic competition showcased innovative clinical concepts and techniques:
1st Place: Mark Park, Columbia University
2nd Place: Oliver Chan, University of Alabama at Birmingham
3rd Place: Ji Lin, Albert Einstein Medical Center
4th Place: Benjamin Ricks, Boston University
5th Place: Akshaya Pallod, University of the Pacific
6th Place: Hannah Eden, Albert Einstein Medical Center
7th Place: Daniel Carney, University of Minnesota
8th Place: Emily Heffner, Texas A&M University
9th Place: Jennie Kim, Harvard School of Dental Medicine
10th Place: Ali Heydary, University of Texas at San Antonio
AAE26 is shaping up to be one of the most memorable meetings in AAE history as attendees gathered in the Salt Palace Convention Center for Celebrate Salt Lake City, an evening that perfectly captured the energy, camaraderie, and spirit of this year’s meeting.
From the moment doors opened, Hall A&B transformed into a lively, can’t-miss destination where friends and colleagues reconnected, unwound, and celebrated a successful week. Guests enjoyed a festive mix of hors d’oeuvres, drinks, and dancing, all set to the upbeat sounds of live music from The Groove Merchants, who kept the crowd on their feet throughout the night.
The evening was packed with interactive experiences that brought a playful, distinctly local flair to the celebration. Attendees lined up for crowd favorites like the ice sculpture drink luge and the ever-popular dirty soda bar, while others tried their hand at the curling rink or took home personalized keepsakes from caricature artists. Photo booths captured countless candid moments, and cozy après-ski lounges offered the perfect spot to relax and take it all in.
The event was a reflection of what makes the AAE community so special—connection, celebration, and shared pride in the specialty.
Stay tuned for a full gallery of photos capturing the magic and a glimpse of the fun, laughter, and unforgettable moments that made Celebrate Salt Lake City the perfect finale to AAE26.
Dr. Noblett is Director, Division of Endodontics, University of Minnesota School of Dentistry, Minneapolis, Minnesota
Dr. W Craig Noblett received his dental degree from UCLA School of Dentistry and his Masters and certificate in Endodontics from the University of Iowa. He has also served as an assistant director of the GPR program at Northwestern Memorial Hospital/Northwestern University School of Medicine in Chicago. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Endodontics, a Fellow of the American College of Dentists and the International College of Dentists. He has chaired several committees for the American Association of Endodontists, and is a past president of the Northern California Academy of Endodontics. He has also served on the Board of Trustees of the California Dental Association and served as Chair of the Committee on Volunteer Placement and the Nominating Committee for the CDA. Dr. Noblett has also served six years as a Director of the American Board of Endodontics including two years as president of the ABE. In April, 2020 Dr. Noblett joined the faculty at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry, and as of September 1, 2020 has assumed the role of Director of the Division of Endodontics and Graduate Program Director in Endodontics.
Stay tuned to the May edition of the Communique for a profile article on Dr. Noblett!
At the AAE26 in Salt Lake City, the American Association of Endodontists is recognizing a distinguished group of individuals whose contributions have advanced the specialty through innovation, research, education, leadership, and service. Being honored during the Edgar D. Coolidge Brunch on Saturday, April 18, 2026, these award recipients represent the very best of endodontics.
Dr. Alan S. Law, Edgar D. Coolidge Award
Dr. Alan Law received his Doctor of Dental Surgery and Certificate in Endodontics from the University of Iowa College of Dentistry, Iowa City, Iowa. He also completed his PhD, “Mechanisms and Modulation of Orofacial Pain”, with the Department of Pharmacology at the University of Iowa. Dr. Law has published over 40 articles in scientific and clinical journals, and has co-authored chapters on orofacial pain and regenerative Endodontics in Pathways of the Pulp and The Dental Pulp, is an editor of Endodontics: Principles and Practice, and has lectured at over 400 local, national and international meetings. He is a member the American Dental Association, American Association of Endodontics, and Omicron Kappa Upsilon Dental Honor Society, and a Fellow of the American College of Dentists and the International College of Dentists. He is a Past President of the Minnesota Association of Endodontists, The American Association of Endodontists, and American Board of Endodontics. He is in full–time practice in the Twin Cities, President of The Dental Specialists, a multi-specialty dental practice with over 44 specialists, and Chief Clinical Officer-Specialty Practices for Park Dental Partners, Inc. He is also a Research Professor in the Division of Endodontics at the University of Minnesota.
Dr. Fred Barnett, I.B. Bender Lifetime Educator Award
Dr. Barnett received his DMD degree in 1978 and his Certificate in Endodontics in 1981, both from the University of Pennsylvania, School of Dental Medicine. He received his Board Certification in Endodontics in 1988, and is currently the Chairman and Program Director of the IB Bender Postdoctoral Endodontic Program at Albert Einstein Medical Center in Philadelphia. He currently serves on the Advisory Board of the Dental Traumatology Journal, is a Director of the International Association of Dental Traumatology and a former Associate Editor of the Journal of Endodontics.
Dr. Harry T. Cosby, Edward M. Osetek Award
Dr. Harry Cosby has proudly served as Chairman of the Department of Endodontics at the University of Tennessee since 2019. His journey in dentistry began with a Bachelor of Science in Biology from East Tennessee State University in 1981, followed by a Master of Science from Memphis State University in 1982. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Tennessee in 1988 and completed his Endodontic Certificate at the University of Pennsylvania in 1992. During his time at Penn, he was mentored by a wonderful group of professors, Drs. I.B. Bender, Sam Seltzer, Seymour Oliet, George Stewart, and Syngcuk Kim. Following his postgraduate training, Dr. Cosby established a private practice in Tupelo, Mississippi, where he became the first endodontist in Northeast Mississippi. Over his 26 years in practice, he built lasting relationships with patients and colleagues, always striving to deliver compassionate, high-quality care. In 2017, Dr. Cosby returned to the University of Tennessee, driven by a deep commitment to education and mentorship. He considers it a privilege to support and guide the next generation of dental professionals, and he continues to find inspiration in learning alongside his students.
Dr. Yanling Jiang, Calvin D. Torneck Part-Time Educator Award
Dr. Jiang came to US as a post-graduate student from Peking University, China, and completed Doctor Science in Oral Biology, Dental Medicine and advanced training in Endodontics at Boston University, School of Dental Medicine. She started her academic career with research on inflammatory mediators and bone resorption mechanisms, founded by American Cancer Society, NIH and AAE foundation. Her study lead to a few dozens of publications in prestigious journals, such as “Science”, “Journal of Biochemistry”, ”The Journal of Immunology”,” Infection and Immunity” and “American Journal of Physiology”. She has mentored doctoral, master and CAG students including several research competition winners at AAE. After a decade of productive research career, she was called to serve as the director of pre-doc endodontics, later taught postgraduate endodontics for more than two decades. Besides research and teaching, Dr. Jiang has been practicing in private practice. Dr. Jiang was a clinical professor and become a professor emeritus now. After nearly four decades spent at BU, she is focusing on the love of her life, family and travel the world.
Dr. Asma Khan, Louis I. Grossman Award
Dr Asma Khan is a tenured Professor at UT San Antonio. She received her dental degree from India, her PhD in Neuroscience from the University of Maryland, and her Certificate in Endodontics from UT Health San Antonio. She completed a Fellowship in Clinical Research at the National Institutes of Health, Bethesda and a Post-Doctoral Fellowship on Neuro-Immune interactions. She currently serves on the Council of Scientific Affairs of the American Dental Association and is a member of the Scientific Advisory Board for the Journal of Endodontics. Her research interests include the use of AI to improve clinical practice and the development of new diagnostics and analgesics.
Dr. Kenneth B. Wiltbank, Spirit of Service Career Dental Community Volunteer Award
Dr. Kenneth B. Wiltbank attended dental school at the Oregon Health and Sciences University (OHSU) and graduated in the class of 1998. After seven years working as a general dentist, he returned to school at the University of Texas Health Sciences Center at San Antonio, where he completed a Certificate in Endodontics (Class of 2007). He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Endodontics. Dr. Wiltbank is a member of and volunteers in the American Association of Endodontists, where he serves as a member of the Practice Affairs Committee and as an AAE representative to the American Dental Association’s Codes Maintenance Committee and to the American Association of Dental Consultants. He is also a member of the American Dental Association, the Oregon Dental Association and the Clatsop Country Dental Association. He is the current president of the Oregon State Association of Endodontists and has served in other capacities in organized dentistry. As well as owning two endodontic practices and regularly seeing patients, Dr. Wiltbank serves as an adjunct associate professor at the OHSU School of Dentistry, department of endodontology. When he is not in the office, Dr. Wiltbank enjoys the outdoors, running, sports, reading and spending time with his wife, Krista Lucas, and their two children.
Dr. Carolyn Primus, Honorary Membership
Dr. Carolyn Primus is an innovator whose work in bioactive ceramics has transformed modern endodontic care. From her role in bringing ProRoot MTA and White ProRoot MTA to clinical practice, she went on to develop many next-generation calcium silicate cements through NIH-funded research. She founded Avalon Biomed Inc., later acquired by another company. Her engineering innovations in endodontics have preserved countless teeth worldwide. Dr. Primus has devoted her career to bringing new technologies from concept to clinical reality. She developed an array of dental porcelain products and accessories, is the inventor on 13 dental patents. She has published 37 dental articles and contributed 10 chapters for dental texts. This year she published a book with appeal for dentists and biomaterials engineers, “Ceramics in Dentistry: Materials, Manufacturing, and Clinical Applications” on the multiplicity of ceramics used in dental products. Beyond innovation, Dr. Primus has achieved FDA clearance for a variety of medical products and has served as the chair of the ADA and ISO committees for endodontic and restorative materials to guide clinical quality and safety.
W Craig Noblett, D.D.S., M.S., will serve as President.
Elizabeth Shin Perry, D.M.D., will serve as President-Elect.
Bradley H. Gettleman, D.D.S., M.S., will serve as Vice President.
Mark B. Desrosiers, D.M.D., will serve as Treasurer.
Kenneth W. Tittle, D.D.S., MS, will serve as Secretary.
Steven J. Katz, D.D.S., M.S., will serve as Immediate Past President.
District Directors are as follows:
District 1
Fiza Singh, DDS, MMSc
Tadros Tadros, B.D.S, D.D.S, C.A.G.S
District 2
Adrienne Korkosz, D.M.D.
Carla Falcon, D.M.D., M.D.S.
District 3
Brian Bergeron, D.D.S.
Christopher Cain, D.D.S.
District 4
Alfred Wiemann III, D.D.S., M.S.
John Nusstein, D.D.S., M.S.
District 5
David Clanton, Sr., D.M.D.
Poorya Jalali, D.D.S.
District 6
Callee Clark, D.D.S.
Katherine Divine, D.D.S., M.S.
District 7
Nadia Chugal, D.D.S., M.S.
Mike Sabeti, D.D.S.
For decades, the specialty of endodontics has advanced through the dedication of individuals who commit themselves fully to patient care, education, scholarship, and service. This year, we are proud to recognize one such individual whose lifelong contributions have helped shape the profession both in the United States and around the world—Dr. Sam Dorn.
From the outset of his career, Dr. Dorn demonstrated a steadfast commitment to excellence and service. After earning his DDS and completing his specialty training, he served in the United States Air Force before entering private practice. It was there that his passion for teaching and mentorship took hold, leading him into a distinguished academic career.
Over the years, Dr. Dorn has held several prominent academic leadership roles. He served as the founding Director of a postgraduate endodontics program at a major university, later as Director of Graduate Endodontics and Department Chair at another institution, and ultimately as Chair of the Department of Endodontics at a respected school of dentistry. In each role, he played a pivotal part in shaping the next generation of endodontists.
A Diplomate of the American Board of Endodontics, Dr. Dorn is also a Fellow of the American College of Dentists, the International College of Dentists, and the Pierre Fauchard Academy—recognitions that reflect his professional excellence and commitment to the field.
Dr. Dorn’s leadership has extended far beyond academia. He served as President of the American Association of Endodontists in the early 2000s, helping guide the organization during a transformative period. His global impact is equally notable: he went on to serve as President of the International Federation of Endodontic Associations from 2014 to 2016 and most recently led the Asian Pacific Endodontic Confederation. Through these roles, he has helped strengthen collaboration and elevate standards across the international endodontic community.
His contributions as a scholar and educator are equally significant. Dr. Dorn has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications and textbook chapters, including a widely recognized chapter on emergency endodontic treatment in Cohen’s Pathways of the Pulp. He has lectured extensively across the United States, Asia, Europe, and Latin America, sharing his knowledge and inspiring colleagues worldwide.
Throughout his career, Dr. Dorn has remained deeply committed to mentorship—guiding residents, supporting the development of postgraduate programs, and helping shape the future of the specialty. His influence can be seen not only in the institutions he has led, but in the countless individuals he has mentored along the way.
In recognition of his extraordinary contributions as a clinician, educator, leader, and mentor, Dr. Dorn was previously awarded the Edgar D. Coolidge Award, the AAE’s highest honor for lifetime achievement.
Today, we celebrate a career defined by service, excellence, humility, and an unwavering commitment to advancing endodontics. It is with deep appreciation and great pride that we honor Dr. Sam Dorn with this year’s President’s Award.
The American Association of Endodontists (AAE) recently joined a coalition of organizations in submitting comments to the U.S. Department of Education in response to proposed changes under the Reimagining and Improving Student Education (RISE) rule. This effort reflects the AAE’s continued commitment to advocating for policies that support students, protect access to education, and ensure a strong future workforce in healthcare professions.
The coalition’s comments focused on the proposed timeline for implementing significant changes to federal student loan programs. As outlined in the proposal, the Department is considering sweeping reforms, including new repayment plans, changes to loan limits, and the phase-out of the Graduate PLUS program. These changes would directly impact students pursuing advanced education, including those entering dental and other healthcare fields.
Throughout the advocacy process, coalition partners emphasized that implementing reforms of this magnitude on an accelerated timeline could create unnecessary challenges for both borrowers and institutions. Students are already making decisions about enrollment and financing for upcoming academic years, and sudden changes could introduce confusion and uncertainty into that process. In addition, institutions would face operational challenges in updating systems, policies, and financial aid processes within a compressed timeframe.
To address these concerns, the coalition encouraged the Department to consider a phased approach to implementation. Specifically, the letter outlined options that would allow for a more structured transition, including aligning implementation with existing regulatory timelines or providing delayed compliance periods. These approaches would help ensure that students and institutions have adequate time to understand and adapt to the new requirements while minimizing the risk of errors or disruptions.
The coalition also highlighted broader implications of the proposed changes, particularly for the healthcare workforce pipeline. Limiting access to financing options without sufficient transition time could impact students pursuing advanced degrees in high-need fields such as dentistry and medicine. Ensuring a thoughtful and measured implementation process is critical to maintaining access to education and supporting the next generation of healthcare providers.
The AAE’s participation in this effort underscores the Association’s proactive approach to advocacy on issues that extend beyond clinical practice and directly affect the future of the specialty. By engaging with coalition partners and federal agencies, the AAE continues to work to ensure that policy changes are implemented in a way that supports both students and the profession.
Through efforts such as this, the AAE remains committed to advancing policies that strengthen access to education, support the healthcare workforce, and promote the long-term success of endodontics.
The American Association of Endodontists (AAE) recently joined a coalition of organized dentistry groups in submitting comments to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), advocating for the preservation of adult dental coverage under the Affordable Care Act. This coordinated effort reflects the AAE’s continued commitment to advancing policies that improve access to oral health care and protect patients’ ability to receive necessary treatment.
The coalition’s comments were submitted in response to proposed regulatory changes that could impact the availability of adult dental benefits beginning in future plan years. As discussed among coalition partners, maintaining and expanding access to adult dental coverage remains critical, particularly as more states and plans have taken steps in recent years to include these benefits as part of comprehensive health care offerings.
Throughout the advocacy process, participating organizations emphasized the importance of recognizing oral health as an essential component of overall health. Restricting states’ ability to include adult dental services in benchmark plans would represent a step backward, limiting progress that has been made in expanding access to care. The coalition underscored that policies supporting adult dental coverage contribute to improved health outcomes and help reduce long-term costs associated with untreated dental disease.
In addition to concerns related to coverage, the coalition also highlighted broader implications of the proposed rule, including potential impacts on patient access and provider participation. Ensuring that regulatory frameworks support both patients and providers remains a key priority, as changes in coverage and plan requirements can directly affect how care is delivered.
The AAE’s participation in this effort reflects the Association’s ongoing focus on proactive advocacy at the federal level. By collaborating with coalition partners and engaging in the regulatory process, the AAE continues to work to ensure that policies support access to high-quality endodontic care and protect the interests of both providers and patients.
Through efforts such as this, the AAE remains committed to advancing policies that strengthen the specialty and promote the critical role of oral health within the broader healthcare system.