Meet the Speakers

John Ahern MB BCh BDent.Sc PhD

Dr. Ahern is a physician and dentist based at Boston Children’s Hospital and the Cambridge Health Alliance. A former Fulbright Scholar to Harvard Medical School, he completed his PhD in 2019 and has since led several first-author publications in leading primary care journals, including the Journal of General Internal Medicine, the Annals of Family Medicine, and the British Journal of General Practice. His work focuses on leveraging dental medicine to advance medical practice and policy, with a sustained commitment to clinical innovation and interdisciplinary integration in healthcare.

Samantha Jordan DMD, MPH; MassHealth Dental Director

Dr. Samantha Jordan is the Dental Director of MassHealth, the Massachusetts Medicaid program. Dr. Jordan is a board-certified dental public health specialist focused on advancing health justice through policies that support equitable, accessible, and affordable oral health care and health outcomes for all in Massachusetts. She also practices as a general dentist one afternoon per week at a non-profit dental clinic in Quincy, MA.

Amber Lombardi IPDH

Amber Lombardi is a University of New England graduate and a Master of Public Health candidate. Amber started Mainely Teeth, a non-profit mobile dental clinic, to bring community access to quality dental care. Mainely Teeth\’s mission is to break down barriers to oral health care and provide access to quality, compassionate dental care to individuals, families, and communities. Core to this mission is the belief that quality oral health care is a basic human right, not a privilege. Amber never wavers in her commitment to serving those left out of the traditional medical system due to systemic issues of racism, socioeconomic privilege or the gap between private and public health insurance.

Over the last five years, Amber has worked to develop and implement the first virtual dental home pilot for the state of Maine, creating access to care in the most rural settings. Mainely Teeth has expanded services to over 200 sites across the state along with three brick-and-mortar offices and two mobile dental clinics that provide care to all 16 counties in Maine.

John Fisher, DDS

Dr. John Fisher is a graduate of Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry. He was a clinical instructor at Temple and later at Boston University School of Dentistry. Dr. Fisher had a General Dentistry practice for 50 years in Salem, Massachusetts. He has served as Trustee and President of the Massachusetts Dental Society and is a Past Chair of the Better Oral Health for Massachusetts Coalition where he continues to serve. Dr. Fisher is an advisory member of the Oral Health Committee of the Massachusetts Medical Society. He is a member of the Special Committee on Oral Health for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and he lectures on community water fluoridation throughout Massachusetts. He is part of the Oral Health Advisory Task Force for Health Care for All. Additionally, he sits on the advisory board for Forsythe School of Dental Hygiene.

Nadine Tassabehji

Nadine Tassabehji is an Assistant Professor in both the Department of Comprehensive Care, Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, and in the Division of Nutrition Interventions, Communication, and Behavior Change at Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy. Dr. Tassabehji earned her undergraduate degree from the American University of Beirut in Nutrition and Food Sciences. She then earned her master’s in Clinical Nutrition and PhD in Nutritional Neuroscience from Florida State University. She completed her internship at both Florida State University and Tufts University. Her area of expertise includes nutrition and oral health. Dr. Tassabehji teaches a wide spectrum nutrition course to pre-doctoral and post-graduate dental school. She also teaches in the MBS (Master of Biomedical Sciences) and PA (Physician Assistant) programs at Tufts University. She is the co-course director for the integrated Craniofacial Biology course for first year dental students. Dr. Tassabehji is a dietetic intern preceptor for the Frances Stern Center at the Tufts Medical Center, where eight dietetic interns visit Tufts Dental School to complete their rotations before sitting for the Registered Dietitian exam. In 2022, she was the recipient of the Dean’s award in excellent in Basic Science Teaching. In 2023, was awarded the TUSDM Development Opportunities for Innovative Teaching Grant. Her research focuses on two areas. First, the intersection of nutrition and oral health, with a particular emphasis on prevention. This research aims to explore how dietary factors influence oral health outcomes. The second area of research aims to identify strategies for incorporating nutrition education into dental curriculum both pre-doctoral and residency programs. By integrating nutrition into dental education, her work seeks to equip future dental professionals with the knowledge and tools to provide comprehensive care that addresses both oral and overall health. Dr. Tassabehji serves on several professional organizations related to oral health nutrition including Food is Medicine Massachusetts (FIMMA) and Oral Health Alliance.

Lauren Carlson, RDH

Lauren Carlson has been in the dental field for over 20 years. She graduated from Forsyth Dental Hygiene School in 2006 and holds a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene from MCPHS University. She is the recipient of the 2007 American Association of Public Health Dentistry Award, which inspired her to pursue a Master’s in Public Health at San Diego State University. Her passion for prevention, science, and helping others has been the driving force throughout her career. She actively participates in various community outreach programs and has dedicated many clinical hours to non-profit organizations both in the U.S. and abroad. After a hand injury in 2019, Lauren’s dental hygiene career was abruptly paused, leading her to pursue mentorship and practice consulting in dental hygiene. She currently works for Elevate Oral Care as a sales representative—better known as a “Preventative Care Consultant.” Lauren hopes to transform the landscape of the dental industry by inspiring others to reach their full potential and driving impactful advancements within the dental tech-science space.

Lisa Kane

Lisa assists dental practices in complying with the myriad of regulations and best practices promulgated by State dental boards, OSHA and the CDC. Lisa conducts office walk-throughs; creates customized plans and protocols for dental offices; teaches infection control, medical emergency and risk management classes; and provides consulting services to help offices improve their quality care and overall efficiency. Prior to forming DOC4NE, she practiced dentistry in the Greater Boston Area for over 20 years. Lisa received her DMD from Tufts University School of Medicine and her BS from Brandeis University.

John Calabrese, DMD

John Calabrese, DMD practices in Massachusetts at Ascent Dental Care and medical spa, Ascent Laser Aesthetics. He practices comprehensive general dentistry including cosmetics, implants, orthodontics. He also treats patients for both cosmetics and therapeutics using botox and dermal fillers. He works at the Baystate Hospital Operating Room providing full mouth rehabilitation to children, adults and disabled patients. Dr. Calabrese is an attending dentist at the Hartford Hospital GPR program training the dental residents. He works with AMET and MEI to provide continuing education as a national BOTOX® and Dermal Filler instructor for dentists, physicians, PA’s and nurses. He has spoken at numerous dental institutions, graduate programs and conferences including the Yankee Dental Conference in Boston, MA.

Amber Lovatos, RDH, BSDH

Amber has been compassionately blazing trails personally and professionally for more than 10 years. As a clinician, educator, author, podcaster, content creator and champion for public health issues, she inspires industry colleagues with unique stories that include triumph over abuse and discovering her identity as “The Latina RDH.” Celebrated as her family\’s first college graduate, Amber holds a bachelors degree in dental hygiene from The University of Texas School of Dentistry. Amber is the recipient of numerous national and state awards and academic scholarships, including being named ADEA\’s 2018 Dental Hygienists Pursuing Academic Careers, 2021’s Dimensions of Dental Hygiene Six Dental Hygienists You Want to Know & one of the 2022\’s Sunstar Award of Distinction recipients. Amber has dedicated her dental hygiene career to organizing community outreach events throughout the United States. Amber has organized over 50 events, including sealant days, dental care days, and oral screening events. Amber currently works for a nonprofit dental clinic providing care to survivors of abuse and human trafficking. Before working there, she volunteered at the clinic, caring for survivors, implementing teledentistry, and using portable equipment to provide care to patients in rural parts of Texas. Amber also brought free dental care to children in title-one schools. Amber currently works with Crest Oral-B on their Closing Americas Gap campaign.

Sarah Crow, RDH

Sarah Crow started in the dental industry in 2004. She has earned numerous awards throughout her education and career as a Dental Hygienist. To name a few, in 2018 Sarah was named “Component Hygienist of the Year” by her colleagues and was most recently voted the 2021 “Massachusetts Dental Society, Hygienist of the Year.”

Sarah currently serves as the Immediate Past-President, for The Massachusetts Dental Hygienists’ Association. She is also a Senior Executive Consultant for Cellerant Consulting Group and a USA Trainer for The Swiss Dental Academy, in the field of Guided Biofilm Therapy with EMS Dental. She presents educational content both virtually and in-person, to dental professionals across the country.

Sarah enjoys working chairside with patients in Salem, MA where she is given the opportunity to exhibit her passion for helping others to improve their oral and overall health.

Caitlin Parsons, RDH, C-IAYT, CEAS

Caitlin Parsons is a Registered Dental Hygienist of 15 years and chronic pain survivor turned Certified Yoga Therapist and Ergonomic Consultant for dental professionals. Caitlin helps dental professionals prevent, reduce, and overcome workplace pain, manage stress, and optimize their health so they can thrive in and out of the office. Caitlin is passionate about practitioner & team wellness to support better patient care, team cohesiveness, and practice growth through her in-person & online programs, speaking events, writing, team experiences, and her podcast, The Aligned Hygienist.

Wendy Bebey, RDH, BS

Wendy Bebey holds the position of Academic Relations Manager for Young Innovations. Wendy’s expansive career is built upon a foundation as a clinician and educator.  With wide-ranging experience in the dental industry, Wendy has excelled in roles including Professional Relations, Sales Management, and training and education and has been delivering continuing education programs for the past twenty years. Wendy is a passionate educator who is proud to be viewed as a leader in the dental community.

Ryan D. Rutar RDH, MAM, BS, BA

Ryan is the President and Co-Founder of Pearly White Prevention, LLC. He consults in dental offices to help empower the dentist/hygiene relationship and coaches hygienists that want to change the way they deliver care.

He has a dual roll at Morning Glory Dental private practice. He works as a clinical hygienist and streamlines hygiene as the Dental Hygiene Manager. In 2022, He was the honored recipient of the “Change Maker in Dentistry,” by OnDiem. He also developed the first “Rutar Toothbrush Meditation Technique” to combine health of mind and mouth. He also served on the Editorial Advisory Board for RDH Magazine and chaired the diversity committee for ADHA.

Ryan empowers dental professionals to create change and how they can contribute to their practice. He is focused on mental health and the LGBTQ+ community. If you would like to learn more, he may be contacted through his website – www.pearlywhiteprevention.com.

Laura Bettencourt, RDH

Danielle Avila, RDH

Melissa Leite CDA, RDH, BS

Melissa Leite graduated from the Dental Hygiene Program at Bristol Community College with an Associate in Science degree in Dental Hygiene and holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Vermont Technical College. She serves as a member on the Massachusetts Dental Hygienists’ Association public health council and is a Mentor Liaison for Bristol Community College.

In 2013, Melissa started as an adjunct clinical faculty at Cape Cod Community College where she teaches Clinical Dental Hygiene I and II, and Dental Materials laboratory. She also has over 12 years of clinical experience. In addition, she has 10 years of public health experience, including co-owning her own public health dental hygiene business. She is dedicated, passionate and excited to present the Massachusetts Public Health Dental Hygiene course to you!

Shirley Gutkowski, RDH, BSDH

Shirley Gutkowski, RDH, has been breathing since before her first birthday. Finding out in 2014 that she was doing it wrong, and how that affected her life, even her life choices, was a jaw dropper!

2014 is when she was dragged to another conference that was of tangential interest to her speaking topic Minimal Intervention Dentistry In Dental Hygiene. Turns out that breathing is the best form of prevention in dentistry, inflammation, cardiovascular breakdown, mental health and so much more.

While her topic today – breathing – may seem like a no brainer you may be surprised!

Shirley lives in the booming metropolis of Sun Prairie, the fastest growing city in the USA, according to her husband Mark. She is the mother of 5 pretty spectacular grown sons, mother in law to 2 stellar women, and gramma to three blindingly bright grandchildren.

Adam Saltz, DMD, MS, MPH

Adam Saltz, DMD, MS, MPH graduated from the UT Health Science Center at San Antonio, where he obtained his Master of Science degree and Certificate in Periodontics. He completed his dental training at Nova Southeastern University, as part of their accelerated dual admission program. While there, he also received a Master of Public Health degree. Dr. Saltz is the managing editor for Decisions in Dentistry. He won the 2020 Dr. and Mrs. Gerald M. Kramer Scholar Award for Excellence, presented to the nation’s top overall graduating resident for outstanding character, service, leadership, and academic achievement. He is president-elect of the Maine Dental Association and chairs multiple state and regional committees. Dr. Saltz formerly taught at the University of New England and currently serves as faculty consultant at Kansas City University, where he developed the predoctoral periodontal curriculum for their inaugural class. He was recognized by the American Dental Association with their 10 Under 10 Award for his contributions in education, public health, and organized dentistry as a new dentist. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology and maintains an active practice in South Portland, Maine.

Jaymi-Lyn Adams, DHSc, MS, RDH

Jaymi-Lyn Adams, DHSc, MS, RDH is a registered dental hygienist currently employed as an assistant professor of dental hygiene at the Forsyth School of Dental Hygiene at MCPHS in Worcester, Massachusetts. Jaymi holds undergraduate degrees in communication disorders and dental hygiene, a master of science in occupational and environmental health and safety, and a doctorate of health sciences. She has over 25 years of experience in the dental field.

Sheila Leaden RYT500

Sheila Leaden RYT500 is a wellness advocate who has been immersed in the healthy living field for close to 2 decades. Through her evolving studies of the ancient eight-limbed practice she continues to explore our universal connection and the integral role that yoga plays in centering the mind. Sheila is also certified in Prenatal yoga where she has integrated the practice through BIDMC’s Ob/Gyn Dept. in Boston, through a virtual platform. “Yoga does not just change the way we see things, it transforms the person who sees”… The Yoga Sutras pulse through and inform Ms. Leaden in her teachings, and she is known for seamlessly weaving wisdom such as this, from BKS Iyengar, into her weekly Beginner, Prenatal and Restorative classes. Sheila’s ongoing yogic exploration has taken her across the globe, with a concentration in India, and has included visiting the Iyengar Institute in Pune, the Sivananda Ashram in Ahmedabad, and the Isha Yoga Center in Coimbatore. The spiritual healing art of Reiki is another channel through which Sheila brings her eastern influences to the west. She is certified in Reiki levels I and II through the Usui System of Natural Healing. In both her workshops and the open yoga classes she leads in the Greater Boston area, Sheila’s students are treated to the rich mind and body sensibility with which she is empowered. A New England native, Sheila resides in Andover, Massachusetts. She loves the fluidity of the seasons and finds in the natural world a perfect antidote to life’s accelerated pace.

Amanda Berthiaume, RDH, CDA, MSDH

Amanda graduated in 2015 from Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) and in 2020 from Forsyth at MCPHS University with her Master’s Degree in dental hygiene education. An active ADHA member since 2013, she is proud to serve as the president of the MassDHA. She works clinically for Wilbraham Dental Associates and as adjunct faculty in the STCC dental sciences program.

Carol Jahn, RDH, MS

Carol Jahn, RDH, MS has a BS in dental hygiene from the University of Iowa and an MS in Continuing Education from the University of St Francis.  She has been a dental hygienist since 1982. She presented courses at ADHA Annual Meeting, Chicago Midwinter, California Dental Meeting, Greater New York, International Symposium on Dental Hygiene, RDH UOR and Yankee Dental Meeting. Carol has published over 100 papers including Access, e-Village and RDH Magazine as well as serving as chapter editor to several textbooks including Clinical Periodontology, 10th, 11th, 12th, 13th eds. Currently, she is the Director of Professional Relations & Education for Water Pik, Inc. She lives in the Chicago suburbs with her partner, Larry, and their dog Toby.