7 Crucial Reasons RDH Under One Roof 2026 In National Harbor Will Transform Your Dental Hygiene Career
The most anticipated event in the dental hygiene calendar, RDH Under One Roof (UOR) 2026, is officially confirmed with all the crucial details you need to mark on your schedule. As of December 25, 2025, the three-day action-packed conference is set to deliver an unprecedented level of quality dental hygiene education, focused on the latest clinical advancements and the rapidly evolving business landscape of dentistry. This is your definitive guide to the 26th annual event, promising to be a transformative experience for every dental professional seeking cutting-edge knowledge.
The 2026 conference is positioned to be a pivotal moment for thousands of Registered Dental Hygienists (RDHs), offering a deep dive into "today's hottest topics" and essential CE credits. The unique blend of world-class speakers, an expansive exhibit floor, and unparalleled networking opportunities ensures attendees leave with actionable strategies to elevate their careers and patient care.
Event Profile: RDH Under One Roof 2026
The RDH Under One Roof conference, organized by Endeavor Business Media, is renowned for bringing together the best in the industry for a comprehensive educational and networking experience. The 2026 event continues this tradition with a stunning new location.
- Event Name: RDH Under One Roof (UOR)
- Edition: 26th Annual Conference
- Dates: Thursday, July 16 – Saturday, July 18, 2026
- Duration: Three days
- Venue: Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center
- Location: National Harbor, Maryland
- Target Audience: Registered Dental Hygienists, Educators, and Dental Professionals
- Focus: Quality dental hygiene education, clinical skill enhancement, practice management, and technology trends.
- Future Date Note: The 2027 conference is already scheduled for July 8-10, 2027, in Nashville, TN.
The Strategic Location: Why National Harbor, Maryland is a Must-Visit
The selection of the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland, for the 2026 event is highly strategic. This venue offers more than just conference rooms; it provides a destination experience that enhances the overall learning and networking environment.
A World-Class Venue for World-Class Education
The Gaylord National Resort is a flagship location known for its expansive facilities and stunning views overlooking the Potomac River, just minutes from Washington D.C. This setting ensures that the educational experience is matched by high-quality accommodation and leisure options. The resort’s massive convention space is ideal for hosting the numerous educational courses, hands-on workshops, and the extensive Exhibit Floor where hundreds of vendors showcase the latest dental technology and products.
Attendees can expect a seamless experience, as the "Under One Roof" concept means all major activities—from registration and educational sessions to the exhibit hall and networking receptions—are conveniently located within the same complex.
Beyond the CE Credits: Networking and Exploration
While the core focus remains on earning essential CE Credits, the National Harbor location offers a vibrant backdrop for post-session networking. The area is a destination in itself, featuring a bustling waterfront, fine dining, and entertainment. This provides dental hygienists a much-needed opportunity to decompress, connect with peers from across the country, and build professional relationships that last far beyond the three-day event.
7 Hottest Topics and Trends Expected at RDH UOR 2026
RDH Under One Roof is committed to covering "today's hottest topics" in dental hygiene. Based on current industry trends and the rapid pace of technological change, the 2026 curriculum is expected to heavily feature sessions on the following crucial areas. These topics represent the future of the dental hygiene profession and are essential for maintaining topical authority in your practice.
1. The Rise of AI and Digital Dentistry
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is quickly moving from a futuristic concept to a practical tool in dental practices. Sessions will likely explore how AI assists in radiographic analysis, disease detection, and streamlining administrative tasks. Furthermore, the integration of Digital Dentistry tools like Intraoral Scanners and 3D Printing is becoming standard, requiring hygienists to understand these technologies for better patient education and co-diagnosis.
2. Expanding the Scope of Practice and Direct Access
The role of the dental hygienist is continually expanding across the United States. Many states are moving toward Direct Access models, allowing hygienists greater autonomy in providing care. The conference will feature critical updates on legislative changes, new responsibilities, and advanced clinical procedures that fall under the expanded scope of practice, such as administering local anesthesia and providing certain authorized dental hygiene services without direct supervision.
3. Advanced Periodontal Therapy and Systemic Health
The link between oral health and systemic diseases—including cardiovascular health and diabetes—remains a paramount focus. Expected courses will delve into advanced non-surgical Periodontal Therapy, risk assessment protocols, and the latest pharmacological agents. This area reinforces the hygienist's role as a primary healthcare provider.
4. Teledentistry and Remote Patient Care
Teledentistry, or "dental care going remote," is a major trend offering new ways to provide instruction in oral hygiene, follow-up care, and triage. Sessions will address the practical, legal, and ethical considerations of incorporating remote patient monitoring and consultation into a modern dental practice, especially for reaching underserved populations.
5. The Business of Dental Hygiene (DSOs and Practice Management)
As Dental Practices continue to consolidate into Dental Service Organizations (DSOs), hygienists need stronger business acumen. Expected sessions will cover financial health, alternative payment models, effective communication with management, and strategies for maximizing productivity and profitability within a consolidated or solo practice environment. This includes optimizing the hygiene department's schedule and services.
6. Pain Management and Comfort
Patient comfort is key to compliance. Courses will focus on the latest techniques and technologies in pain management, including the safe and effective use of nitrous oxide, topical anesthetics, and strategies for gentler flossing and instrumentation to boost patient adoption of recommended care.
7. Aesthetics and Non-Traditional Services
The intersection of general dentistry and cosmetic procedures is growing, with some dental practices incorporating non-traditional services. While the focus remains on preventative care, hygienists are often the first to discuss patient concerns regarding aesthetics. Sessions may touch upon the dental hygienist’s role in co-managing patients receiving cosmetic treatments, including those exploring cosmetic Botox for TMD or gummy smile correction.
How to Prepare for RDH Under One Roof 2026
With the conference set for July 16-18, 2026, planning should begin early. The official website has already opened its "Call for Abstracts," meaning the educational content is being finalized now.
Registration and Booking
Registration types for the event are designed to accommodate every dental professional. While the full Preliminary Event Guide is not expected until March 2026, early registration is highly recommended to secure the best rates and your preferred hotel accommodation at the Gaylord National Resort. Given the popularity of the UOR conference, hotel blocks at the venue and nearby can fill up quickly.
Leveraging the Exhibit Floor
The Exhibit Floor is a core component of the UOR experience, featuring hundreds of companies like Patterson Dental, Philips, and others. Plan to spend significant time here to explore new products, compare Intraoral Cameras, and test the latest infection control devices. This is where you can see the technology discussed in the CE courses come to life.
Maximize Your CE Experience
RDH Under One Roof is structured to provide high-quality CE Credits across a wide array of entities and topics. Review the schedule as soon as it is released in March 2026 and prioritize sessions that align with your career goals, whether that’s mastering new technologies like AI-assisted radiography or expanding your clinical skills in advanced Periodontal Therapy. By planning ahead, you ensure the three-day event provides maximum impact on your professional development.
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