Speaker Card - Sonya Dunbar

Dr. Sonya Dunbar, RDH, MHA Dental Influencer | Geriatric Oral Care Educator | Speaker | Author

Sonya Dunbar, also known as the Geriatric Toothfairy, is a Registered Dental Hygienist, TEDx, and International public speaker guided by over 30 years of dental experience in private practice, skilled nursing facilities, and academia. Sonya and her husband, Gerald Dunbar, are the owners of Mobile Dental Xpress, providing comprehensive dental care to long-term care facilities. In addition, Sonya is a geriatric oral health educator and trainer. She provides informative hands-on training to Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) who work with aging adults. Sonya has also developed an online training course for caregivers and CNAs. She works diligently to educate as many people as possible on the importance of oral health as we age. Sonya is a US Navy Veteran.

Stop Chasing Growth. Start Building It.

The L.A.Y.E.R. Framework™ That Transforms Practices from Chaos to Consistency

In today’s high-pressure dental environment, many practices are operating on talent, hustle, and hope—yet still experiencing burnout, inconsistency, and stalled growth. This powerful session introduces the L.A.Y.E.R. Framework™, a proven system designed to shift practices from reactive chaos to intentional structure. Attendees will learn how to align identity, implement daily non-negotiables, integrate systems, and build a culture of execution and accountability. This is not about doing more—it’s about doing what works consistently. Because sustainable success in dentistry is not built in leaps—it’s built in layers.

The Real Infection in Dentistry Isn’t Clinical… It’s Mental

Eliminating Toxic Thinking That’s Killing Team Culture & Performance

Behind every struggling practice is often an unseen issue—not clinical, but mental. Toxic thinking, poor communication, and unresolved stress silently impact team morale, patient experience, and overall production. This eye-opening course helps dental professionals identify and eliminate “stinkin’ thinkin’” patterns that sabotage success. Through real-life scenarios and actionable strategies, attendees will learn how to shift their mindset, strengthen team dynamics, and create a culture rooted in clarity, accountability, and growth. When mindset improves, performance follows.

AI Is Not the Future—It’s the Standard

How Smart Practices Are Using AI, Automation & Systems to Dominate Dentistry

The most successful dental practices in 2026 are not working harder—they are working smarter through technology. This forward-thinking session explores how AI, automation platforms, and integrated communication systems are transforming the way dentistry is delivered. From case acceptance tools to automated scheduling and patient engagement systems, attendees will discover how to create a seamless, efficient, and scalable workflow. Practices that fail to adopt these systems risk falling behind, while those who embrace them gain a powerful competitive
advantage.

The Silent Epidemic: The Crisis Dentistry Is Ignoring

Why Millions of Seniors Are Suffering—and How You Can Lead the Solution

A growing population of aging adults is facing a silent crisis—limited access to oral healthcare, untreated disease, and declining quality of life. This impactful course sheds light on the urgent need for dental professionals to address geriatric oral health, particularly in long-term care settings. Attendees will gain insight into the clinical, systemic, and emotional challenges
affecting this population, along with practical strategies to improve care delivery. This is more than dentistry—it is about restoring dignity, improving health outcomes, and becoming a voice for those who can no longer advocate for themselves.

Dentistry Without Walls

How Mobile & Teledentistry Are Redefining Access, Growth & Profitability

The traditional dental model is evolving, and the most innovative providers are expanding
beyond the four walls of the practice. This course explores the rapid growth of mobile and teledentistry as powerful solutions to access-to-care challenges while also creating new revenue streams. Attendees will learn how to implement, integrate, and scale these models within their existing practice or as standalone services. By meeting patients where they are—whether in long- term care facilities, homes, or remote settings—providers can increase impact, efficiency, and
profitability.

Case Acceptance Isn’t About Money—It’s About Trust

The Psychology Behind “Yes” and How to Increase Production Without Pressure

Patients don’t reject dentistry—they reject confusion, fear, and lack of trust. This dynamic course uncovers the psychological drivers behind patient decision-making and provides proven communication strategies to improve case acceptance. Attendees will learn how to present treatment with clarity, confidence, and empathy while utilizing visual tools and technology to enhance understanding. By shifting from transactional conversations to relationship-driven communication, dental professionals can significantly increase acceptance rates without feeling sales-driven or pressured.

Burnout Is Costing You More Than You Think

The Hidden Mental Health Crisis in Dentistry—and How to Take Back Control

Dentistry is one of the most demanding professions, and the impact of chronic stress, emotional fatigue, and burnout is often underestimated. This powerful session addresses the mental health challenges faced by dental professionals and provides practical tools to regain control, protect energy, and build resilience. Attendees will learn how to identify early warning signs of burnout, implement daily habits for mental strength, and create healthier work environments. Because you cannot continue to care for others effectively if you are running on empty.

Unapologetically Powerful in the Operatory

How to Own Your Voice, Your Space, and Your Leadership in Dentistry

Too many dental professionals, especially women, have been conditioned to shrink in spaces they were fully qualified to lead. This transformational session challenges the “apology habit” and empowers attendees to show up with confidence, clarity, and authority. Through powerful storytelling and practical strategies, participants will learn how to communicate effectively, lead without hesitation, and own their presence in every room they enter. Confidence is not arrogance—it is alignment with your value. And when you own your space, everything changes.

The Mouth-Body Connection No One Is Talking About

Diabetes, Oral Health & The Life Threatening Link Dental Professionals Must Understand

The connection between oral health and systemic conditions such as diabetes is undeniable—yet often under-communicated in clinical practice. This critical course explores the bidirectional relationship between periodontal disease and diabetes, highlighting how inflammation, infection, and poor oral health can directly impact glycemic control and overall health outcomes. Attendees will learn how to identify high-risk patients, improve interdisciplinary communication, and educate patients in a way that drives compliance and better health. This is not just about treating teeth—it’s about saving lives.

The Hidden Truth About Dentures: It’s More Than a Smile

Prosthodontics, Maintenance & the Impact on Health, Confidence, and Quality of Life

Dentures and removable prosthetics are often treated as a simple replacement for missing teeth—but their impact goes far beyond aesthetics. Improper fit, poor hygiene, and lack of patient education can lead to infections, malnutrition, oral lesions, and diminished quality of life. This clinically driven course explores the essential role dental professionals play in the long-term success of prosthodontic care. Attendees will learn best practices for denture maintenance, patient education, and interdisciplinary collaboration to improve outcomes. Special emphasis will be placed on the physical, emotional, and social challenges denture wearers face—and how providers can deliver care that restores not just function, but dignity.

The Aging Mind: Understanding Behavior, Resistance & Oral Care in Older Adults

Why They Refuse Care—and How to Respond with Strategy, Skill & Compassion

Providing oral care for older adults, especially those with cognitive decline, dementia, or complex medical conditions—requires more than clinical skill; it requires understanding the mind behind the behavior. Resistance, fear, aggression, and withdrawal are often misunderstood, leading to missed care opportunities and increased frustration for both providers and caregivers. This powerful course equips dental professionals with the tools to interpret behaviors, communicate effectively, and deliver care with patience and precision. Attendees will gain insight into the psychological and neurological factors influencing oral care compliance, along with practical techniques to improve cooperation, reduce stress, and ensure safe, effective treatment. Because when you understand the mind, you can transform the care.

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