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Navigating OPAs: Tools & Tips for Dental Hygienists

January 15, 2026 | 6:00 – 7:00 pm CT
Registration closes 01/15 at 5:15 pm CT
Speakers: Lancette VanGuilder, BS ,RDH, PHEDH, CEAS, FADHA, Derik J. Sven, MBA, MPH, RDH, CDT, FADHA, Diann Bomkamp, RDH, BSDH, CDHC, JoAnn Gurenlian, RDH, MS, PhD, AAFAAOM, FADHA & Katherine Williamson, MA

ADHA Members/Subscribers: Free |  Nonmembers $45

This course provides an essential update on Oral Preventive Assistant (OPA) legislation and its impact on dental hygiene practice. Participants will explore strategies used to overcome OPA challenges in Nevada and Missouri, examine alternative legislative approaches that can be introduced in other states, and learn about resources available through ADHA to support advocacy efforts. The session will conclude with a Q&A to address participant questions and foster discussion.

 

In this webinar you will:

  • Explain the current landscape of OPA legislation and its implications for dental hygienists.
  • Analyze strategies employed in Nevada and Missouri to address OPA-related challenges and identify lessons applicable to other states.
  • Describe alternative legislative options and ADHA resources that can be leveraged to advance access and scope of practice initiatives.
 
Speakers:
ADHA President Lancette VanGuilder is an internationally recognized speaker, podcast host, lobbyist, clinician, and thought leader, known for her expertise in medical-dental integration and public health advocacy. Her passion for increasing access to care, airway health and fostering medical-dental collaboration has earned her widespread recognition and numerous awards within the healthcare community. As the President of the American Dental Hygienists’ Association, Lancette leads initiatives that elevate prevention, empower dental hygienists to grow, and advance autonomy—driving lasting impact on both oral and overall health.

Diann Bomkamp has been a dental hygienist and ADHA member since 1970. As a long-time member of the ADHA, Diann has served various leadership and mentorship roles on regional and national levels. Regionally, she served in the Greater St. Louis Dental Hygienists’ Association, MDHA and the Missouri Hy-PAC. Nationally, she has served on a number of ADHA committees, as District VIII Trustee and as ADHA President 2008-2009. Diann is a strong advocate for Missouri dental hygienists. She instills the value of professionalism, mentorship, integrity, commitment, and service. Diann has worked tirelessly to protect, promote, and advance the profession of dental hygiene in the State of Missouri.

Derik Sven has gained notoriety as an outspoken thought leader, with the publication of his series “Breaking Chains: The Case for Dental Hygienists’ Autonomy”, along with his other articles and interviews. His work presents the evidence and makes a compelling case that autonomy and self-governance are not just ideals but the evidence-based and ethical path forward—modernizing dentistry, expanding access to care, and dismantling a system still constrained by Victorian-era ideologies. He brings a wealth of knowledge and perspective to the field, drawing on his combined 20 years of experience as both a registered dental hygienist and a certified dental laboratory technician, alongside graduate-level education and involvement in public health, business, and legal research. Derik is an inaugural fellow of the American Dental Hygienists’ Association and currently serves as President of Virginia’s Chapter.

JoAnn Gurenlian is the Director of Education, Research, & Advocacy for the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA). She is also a Professor Emerita for the Department of Dental Hygiene at Idaho State University, Fellow in the ADHA, Affiliate Academic Fellow in the American Academy of Oral Medicine, and Past President of ADHA and the International Federation of Dental Hygienists. Dr. Gurenlian is the author of over 350 papers in dental hygiene, dental and medical publications and has conducted over 650 presentations at regional, national, and international events.

Katherine Williamson is the Senior Manager of Advocacy at the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA), where she leads state and national advocacy efforts, collaborates with lobbyists and stakeholders, and positions ADHA as a key voice in oral healthcare policy. With extensive experience in government affairs, legislative strategy, and advocacy communications, Katherine has a proven track record in tracking legislation, supporting major initiatives, and crafting persuasive materials that advance policy and organizational goals. Her career began on Capitol Hill as a Legislative Assistant to a congressman on the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, followed by work at a prominent lobbying firm representing high-profile clients before Congress and the Administration. While in Washington, D.C., she earned her Master’s degree from American University. Katherine’s time on Capitol Hill and K Street sparked her passion for state-based advocacy, where she believes meaningful change happens most effectively.
 
 
1.0 LIVE/Interactive CE offered for those in attendance. Certificates will be available under the "Completed" tab in your CE Smart Learning Center immediately following the event. 

Can't attend live? The recording will be automatically available in your CE Smart Learning Center within 24 hours post-event. 1.0 CE can be earned after successful completion of a post-test.



The American Dental Hygienists’ Association is an approved provider of dental continuing education as recognized by the Dental Board of California, Provider #5238.
When
1/15/2026 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM

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