What You Need to Know
About the 2024 Annual Session
Top 5 Reasons to Attend
WOCON 2024 Annual Session in Palm Springs is sure to be the “don’t miss” orthodontic conference for PCSO and RMSO members. Be a part of an incredibly dynamic lineup of exhibitors, interdisciplinary speakers, and industry thought leaders!
Set the pace. Enjoy the vibe. Be the chill.
1. The biggest and best orthodontic conference in the west
Network with hundreds of friends and orthodontic colleagues – doctors, residents, clinical staff, and team members – along with 70 industry leading partners. Enjoy 3 1⁄2 days of outstanding education, collaboration, fun, and relaxation in always sunny, always stylish Palm Springs. It doesn’t get better than this.
2. 15.25 CE credits
Access continuing education opportunities covering a broad range of interdisciplinary topics, and earn up to 15.25 CE credits in person during WOCON 2024. But wait. There’s more... video on demand! Purchase the recorded lectures and, after the event, watch the session videos at your leisure to earn even more credits!
3. An impressive lineup of stand-out speakers
Engage with an A-list of interdisciplinary speakers, from established stars you can’t miss, to our next generation of up-and-coming trailblazers making their mark on the industry. WOCON promises you’ll find topics of interest for everyone with this year’s array of compelling lectures, expert speakers, and interactive discussions.
4. Innovation in motion
Forward looking, forward thinking, always reaching – that’s the spirit of WOCON 2024. Discover the latest and greatest ideas and developments designed to move the profession forward with insight and energy. Experience next-level educational and networking opportunities for doctors and team members.
5. Incomparable luxury and inspired accommodations
The Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort & Spa offers a breathtaking 360-acre retreat with majestic mountain views. Find something for everyone. It’s all here for you to enjoy – 3 pools and 2 waterslides; pickle ball and tennis courts; championship golf; arcade games and bowling, a spa – the list goes on and on... Attendees receive a 15% discount on golf and a 10% discount on spa services; just mention WOCON when reserving your tee time or scheduling your pamper session.
Dates: November 14-17, 2024
Hotel: The Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort & Spa, 71333 Dinah Shore Dr., Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
Dress Code: Business Casual
Food & Drink: Complimentary breakfast, lunch, and breaks on Friday & Saturday and breakfast on Sunday
Mobile App: ‘PCSO Events’ Available for download in the App Store and Google Play
Airport: The two closest airports are Ontario and Palm Springs. LAX is another option but is a 2+ hour drive to Palm Springs.
Visitor Information: Just a short drive from downtown Palm Springs. The Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort & Spa enjoys a prime 360-acre setting boasting luxurious accommodations and championship golf. Relax at one of the three pools with dual waterslides or admire the mountains. Recognized as one of Golf Digest's Top 50 Golf Resorts in North America, it offers unparalleled magnificence for all skill levels. The property also features three lighted tennis courts for casual or competitive play and on-site workshops and professional staff to help craft an experience perfect for any level of player.
WOCON attendees receive 15% off golf on property. Just mention WOCON when reserving your tee time.
Open Date: May 1, 2024
The link to book housing will be included in the registration confirmation email.
Rate: $249/night plus a discounted resort fee* of $10/night. (Rate listed does not include state/city taxes or tourism fee.) Rooms must be booked through the dedicated WOCON link provided upon registration confirmation to receive the rate listed. Please note there is a 1-night deposit required at the time of booking.
You may book 9 rooms or less through the registration link. If you require more than 9 rooms, please call the hotel directly at 760-328-5955 and reference the WOCON meeting.
Hotel Amenities: All rooms booked with the WOCON link receive high speed wi-fi access in guest room; shuttle for 2 to Agua Caliente Casino; access for 4 to Little Links miniature golf course; access to Pete Dye golf practice facility; golf bag storage at Pete Dye Clubhouse (2 bags); shuttle to Gary Player Golf Course; access to Villas Paradise Pool; two welcome beverages at any resort bar.
| Special Event | Date & Time | Location | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Industry News You Can Use. Speaker: Mr. Harrison Bagdan (Sponsored by HIP Creative) | Thursday, November 14th | 1:45pm - 2:25pm | TBD | Free |
| Industry News You Can Use. Speaker: Mr. Zdravko Ivanov (Sponsored by Decimal) | Thursday, November 14th | 2:30pm - 3:10pm | TBD | Free |
| Industry News You Can Use. Speaker: Mr. Ryan Williams (Sponsored by DIBS AI) | Thursday, November 14th | 3:25pm - 4:05pm | TBD | Free |
| Industry News You Can Use. Speaker: Mr. Rob Borcherding (Sponsored by Panacea) | Thursday, November 14th | 4:10pm - 4:50pm | TBD | Free |
| Welcome Reception (Food and Beverage Available) | Thursday, November 14th | 5:00pm - 6:00pm | Exhibit Hall | Free |
| Women Orthodontist Breakfast (Women Doctors ONLY, Pre-Registration Required) | Friday, November 15th | 7:00am - 8:00am | TBD | $40 (Fee increases to $50 on-site) Ticketed Event |
| DentalMonitoring Breakfast ’n Learn (Pre-Registration Required) Speaker: Dr. Ryann Christensen, CE will be offered by the sponsoring company. | Friday, November 15th | 7:00am - 8:00am | TBD | Free Ticketed Event |
| Bay Materials, LLC Breakfast ’n Learn (Pre-Registration Required) Speaker: Dr. Hesham Amer, *CE will not be offered by the sponsoring company. | Friday, November 15th | 7:00am - 8:00am | TBD | Free Ticketed Event |
| Team Talks (Pre-Registration Required) Limited space per each table topic, food available | Friday, November 15th | 11:25am - 12:55pm | TBD | $40 before 8/1/24 $45 until 11/13/24 $50 on-site Ticketed Event |
| Ortho Idol (Hear three up-and-coming speakers) CE’s available | Friday, November 15th | 12:45pm - 2:15pm | TBD | Free |
| ClearCorrect Wine ’n Learn. Space is limited to 50 registrants. Speaker: Dr. Mark Lowe, *CE will not be offered by the sponsoring company. | Friday, November 15th | 5:15pm - 6:15pm | TBD | Free Ticketed Event |
| Alumni Reception (Shared reception with OHSU, UCLA, UCSF, USC, UOP, UW) Pre-Registration Required, food and beverage available | Friday, November 15th | 5:15pm - 6:15pm | TBD | Free Ticketed Event |
| LightForce Breakfast ’n Learn (Pre-Registration Required) Speaker: Dr. Blake Davis, CE will be offered by the sponsoring company. | Saturday, November 16th | 7:00am - 8:00am | TBD | Free Ticketed Event |
| Brius Breakfast ’n Learn (Pre-Registration Required) Speaker: Dr. Eric Wu, CE will be offered by the sponsoring company. | Saturday, November 16th | 7:00am - 8:00am | TBD | Free Ticketed Event |
| Ortho Educators Breakfast (Faculty of Orthodontic Residency Programs ONLY) Pre-Registration Required | Saturday, November 16th | 7:00am - 8:30am | TBD | Free Ticketed Event |
| OrthoConnect (mentorship program) New & Younger Members ONLY. Pre-Registration Required | Saturday, November 16th | 2:00pm - 3:30pm | TBD | Free Ticketed Event (Limited to 24 Members) |
| New & Younger Member Meet & Mingle (New & Younger Members ONLY) Pre-Registration Required, food and beverage available | Saturday, November 16th | 4:45pm - 5:45pm | Pinz & Pints Game Room (On Property) | Free Ticketed Event |
| California Component Happy Hour (California Component Members ONLY) Pre-Registration Required, food and 2 beverages available | Saturday, November 16th | 5:30pm - 6:30pm | TBD | $30 Ticketed Event |
| Closing Celebration (Food and 1 beverage included) **First 30 minutes will be dedicated to component networking | Saturday, November 16th | 6:30pm - 8:30pm | Masters Plaza (On Property) | Admission is included for registered attendees. Tickets to non-registered attendees are available for purchase. |
Registration Instructions:
AAO MEMBERS:
- You will use the email address associated with your AAO membership to log in and complete the 2024 WOCON registration. Not sure what your member type is (e.g. AAO member, retired member, resident/student member)? Go to https://www2.aaoinfo.org/login/ ; click on “Membership”; click on “manage membership”. From there, you should see your membership information.
- You may register significant others/children/guests by clicking member. *Guest benefits include access to the exhibit hall and ticket to the closing celebration only.*
- You may register team members (office staff) by clicking member as well. This will allow you to be able to have one transaction for all your registrants.
NON-MEMBERS:
- If you are not a current AAO member, you will select this option to complete the 2024 WOCON registration.
- You may register significant others/children/guests by clicking non-member. *Guest benefits include access to the exhibit hall and ticket to the closing celebration only.*
- You may register team members (office staff) by clicking non-member as well. This will allow you to be able to have one transaction for all your registrants.
Need Assistance?: 833-621-7276 or info@pcsortho.org
| Category | After 7/31/24 | On-Site |
|---|---|---|
| All AAO Members | $648.00 | $698.00 |
| Retired Member | $448.00 | $498.00 |
| Resident/Student Member | $50.00 | $100.00 |
| Resident/Student Non-Member | $100.00 | $150.00 |
| Non-AAO Member | $1,008.00 | $1,058.00 |
| Team Member (Staff) | $518.00 | $568.00 |
| Spouse/Guest (includes exhibit hall & closing celebration only) | $225.00 | $275.00 |
| Category | Single Day Pricing |
|---|---|
| AAO Member (Friday or Saturday) | $288.00 |
| AAO Member (Sunday) | $208.00 |
| Non-AAO Member (Friday or Saturday) | $468.00 |
| Non-AAO Member (Sunday) | $378.00 |
| Resident/Student Member (Friday, Saturday or Sunday) | $50.00 |
| Team Member (Staff) (Friday or Saturday) | $248.00 |
| Team Member (Staff) (Sunday) | $188.00 |
| Retired Member (Friday or Saturday) | $198.00 |
| Retired Member (Sunday) | $158.00 |
On-Site Registration Hours:
Thursday, November 14, 2024 | 10:00am – 6:00pm
Friday, November 15, 2024 | 6:30am – 5:00pm
Saturday, November 16, 2024 | 6:30am – 4:45pm
Sunday, November 17, 2024 | 7:00am – 10:00am
Cancellations & Refunds Policy: The PCSO/RMSO must receive written notice of cancellation no later than October 15, 2024 to info@pcsortho.org. Requests for full cancellation will be refunded less a $50 administrative fee per registrant. Cancellations or no-shows after this date are not eligible for a refund. This policy covers registration and ticketed events. Cancellation requests should include attendee name, registration confirmation number, AAO member number (if applicable).
Please allow up to four weeks for delivery of refund. In most cases, fees will be refunded the same way they were paid to the PCSO/RMSO. No refunds will be processed on site during the course itself.
The PCSO/RMSO is not responsible for monies registrants may have spent on penalty or non-refundable airline tickets or hotel deposits in the event the course is canceled or sold out. If a program is canceled by the PCSO/RMSO, every effort will be made to notify registrants at least 30 days prior to the first day of the course and registration fees will be refunded.
WOCON Disclaimer, Indemnity, & Photography Policy: In consideration for being allowed to participate in the 2024 Western Orthodontic Conference (WOCON) Annual Session, a joint meeting of the PCSO and RMSO, the PCSO/RMSO and any authorized agents are hereby released from any damages caused or incurred in connection with these activities. In addition, you will be asked to grant permission to all of the foregoing to use any photographs, motion pictures, or any other record of my/our participation in this event.
By registering for and attending the 2024 WOCON Annual Session in Palm Springs, CA, you agree to abide by and engage in any necessary health-and-safety measures necessitated at the time of the event. You further agree to forgo attending the in-person event should I become ill or have been recently exposed to COVID-19.
Additionally, by registering for and attending the 2024 WOCON Annual Session, you further acknowledge and understand that your voluntary attendance at this event may cause you to be exposed to another individual who is carrying or otherwise contagious with respect to COVID-19. You acknowledge and agree that the PCSO/RMSO is not legally liable or responsible should you be exposed to an individual carrying or contagious with COVID-19 while at the 2024 WOCON Annual Session, and you further agree and hereby release the PCSO/RMSO from any and all legal liability, responsibility, or other claim for damages should you be exposed to and/or contract COVID-19 while attending the 2024 WOCON Annual Session.
Total Possible CE Credits: Up to 15.25 CE credits
Managing CE Credits: From mobile app, complete evaluations from all presentations attended. Once all the evaluations are completed, you will be able to create a CE certificate for download or print from the mobile app.
ADA CERP:
Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists (PCSO) is an ADA CERP recognized provider approved by American Association of Orthodontists.
ADA CERP is a service of the American Dental Association to assist dental professionals in identifying quality providers of continuing dental education. ADA CERP does not approve or endorse individual courses or instructors, nor does it imply acceptance of credit hours by boards of dentistry.
Purchase Recordings: Click here to purchase the 2024 WOCON On Demand Presentations. Presentations will be available by mid-December.
Purchase Price: Bundle - members $299, non-members $399; Individual lectures - members $99, non-members $149. Attendees can receive a 50% discount code from their registration confirmation email.
Login Instructions:
Current AAO Member Sign-In: Use the email address and password associated with your AAO membership. If you are not an AAO member, you can create a new account.
Non-member Sign-In: Guests that are not current AAO members should create an account with the PCSO Virtual Learning platform to access content as a non-member.
Technical Support: The platform has great support built right in. Just click on the question mark in the circle located in the bottom right of your screen. There are lots of great resources there, but if you can't find what you're looking for, reach out to info@pcsortho.org.
180-Day Replay: Presentations are good for 180 days after recordings become available.
We would like to invite you to be a part of the 2024 Western Orthodontic Conference (WOCON) Annual Session, a joint meeting of the Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists (PCSO) and Rocky Mountain Society of Orthodontists (RMSO). Held at The Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort & Spa in Palm Springs, CA from November 14-17, 2024, this will be the meeting of the year for orthodontists and their teams.
This event presents a unique opportunity for companies to promote themselves and showcase their offerings to a highly targeted audience of doctors, residents, clinical staff, and office staff. Combined, the PCSO and RMSO have over 4,000 members representing the western half of the United States and Canada. Please review the multiple sponsorship opportunities and exhibitor options available to you, and let us know how we can make your experience a rewarding endeavor. Click here to view the full 2024 Sponsor and Exhibitor Prospectus.
Contact Information: Abby Freeman, afreeman@pcsortho.org, 833-621-7276, ext. 702.
Hotel & Travel
Hotel:
The Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort & Spa
71333 Dinah Shore Dr
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
Attendees receive a 15% discount on golf and a 10% discount on spa services; just mention WOCON when reserving your tee time or scheduling your pamper session.
*All rooms booked with the WOCON link receive high speed wi-fi access in guest room; shuttle for 2 to Agua Caliente Casino; access for 4 to Little Links miniature golf course; access to Pete Dye golf practice facility; golf bag storage at Pete Dye Clubhouse (2 bags); shuttle to Gary Player Golf Course; access to Villas Paradise Pool; two welcome beverages at any resort bar.
Flying to/from Palm Springs:
The two closest airports are Ontario and Palm Springs. LAX is another option but is a 2+ hour drive to Palm Springs.
The Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort & Spa is SOLD OUT.
Additional housing options are available nearby. Here are a few hotels that are close. Click on the hotels below to learn more.
Aqua Caliente Resort
Hampton Inn & Suites Palm Desert
Ritz-Carlton Rancho Mirage
Best Western Plus Desert View Inn
Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort
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Experience Palm Springs
Events
Get excited about what's to come
Thursday, November 14, 2024
Industry News You Can Use Presentations | 1:45pm – 4:50pm
These fast-paced presentations feature four different industry leading orthodontic companies with 40-minute lectures from each. These sessions will deliver impactful and lasting takeaways for you and your practice. CE credit is not offered for these sessions.
* Contributing companies/speakers include: HIP Creative, Decimal, DIBS AI and Panacea Financial.
Welcome Reception | 5:00pm – 6:00pm
Join your colleagues for a conference social hour to kick off the meeting with supplies in the exhibit hall. Food and beverage available.
Friday, November 15, 2024
Women Orthodontists Breakfast | 7:00am – 8:00am
Back by popular demand!
The PCSO/RMSO invites all women orthodontists and residents to register for the Women Orthodontists Breakfast. This event will begin with a brief inspirational program is primarily intended as a venue to bring together women from all areas of the PCSO & RMSO. Join us to share experiences and increase connections! Limited space available; pre-registration is required.
Breakfast ‘n Learn | 7:00am – 8:00am
Rise and shine with conference attendees and hear an exclusive workshop with DentalMonitoring. Space is limited to ONLY 50 registrants.
Speaker: Dr. Ryann Christensen
CE will be offered by the sponsoring company.
Breakfast ‘n Learn | 7:00am – 8:00am
Rise and shine with conference attendees and hear an exclusive workshop with Bay Materials, LLC. Space is limited to ONLY 50 registrants.
Speaker: Dr. Hesham Amer
CE will not be offered by the sponsoring company.
Team Talks | 11:25am – 12:55pm
Back by popular demand!
Come to the table and be prepared to share, educate, inspire, and be inspired. These powerful discussions will be led by subject leaders sharing relevant conversations in our rapidly changing profession. Limited space available for each table topic. Register early to take advantage of this extra learning and networking opportunity as these WILL sell out. Lunch provided in Team Talks room.
Discussion topics:
- Retainers for Life: Implementing a Retainer Program
- Navigating the World of Insurance and Billing; Tips, Tricks, and Pearls
- First Impressions Matter: How to Create the Wow Factor from the Second They Walk in the Door
- Creating Practice Utopia: Cultivating the Culture You Want for Your Team Members in the Workplace
- Impress Them with Perfect Records: Tips and Tricks for Taking Good Photos, Scans, and X-rays
- Marketing 101: Maximizing Social Media for the Office and Patient
- Tricks and Tips for Aligner Attachment Delivery
- The TC Only Exam – Words, Who, & When
- From Phobic to Fearless: How to Triumph Over Dental Anxiety in Your Younger Patients
- You’re One of Us Now: Efficient and Effective Training of New Team Members
Ortho Idol | 12:45pm – 2:15pm
Don’t miss your chance to hear three up-and-coming speakers. Each Ortho Idol contestant will have 20 minutes to share their message. At the end, audience members will vote on the winner, to be featured next year as a speaker at the 2025 WOCON Annual Session.
Wine ‘n Learn | 5:15pm – 6:15pm
Enjoy wine and snacks with fellow conference attendees and hear an exclusive workshop with ClearCorrect. Space is limited to 50 registrants.
Speaker: Dr. Mark Lowe
CE will not be offered by the sponsoring company.
Alumni Receptions | 5:15pm – 6:15pm
Enjoy a reception with your fellow residency program alumni from these programs. Ticketed event for members. Pre-registration is required.
- Oregon Health & Science University (member only; no guest permitted)
- University of California Los Angeles
- University of California San Francisco
- University of Southern California
- University of the Pacific
- University of Washington
Saturday, November 16, 2024
Breakfast ‘n Learn | 7:00am – 8:00am
Rise and shine with conference attendees and hear an exclusive workshop with LightForce. Space is limited to 50 registrants.
Speaker: Dr. Blake Davis
CE will be offered by the sponsoring company.
Breakfast ‘n Learn | 7:00am – 8:00am
Rise and shine with conference attendees and hear an exclusive workshop with Brius. Space is limited to 50 registrants.
Speaker: Dr. Eric Wu
CE will be offered by the sponsoring company.
Orthodontic Educator Breakfast | 7:00am – 8:30am
Join your educator colleges for breakfast and discussions about current happenings in orthodontic education. Pre-registration is required; open to faculty of orthodontic residency programs.
OrthoConnect | 2:00pm – 3:30pm
A mentorship pilot program open to new & younger members in their first 10 years out of residency. Limited to ONLY 24 members.
Are you ready to make long lasting mentor relationships in your orthodontic journey? Join us at this unforgettable afternoon of networking, guidance, and meaningful connections in the inaugural OrthoConnect Speed Dating Event! Don’t miss it. Secure your spot now. Follow-up information will be requested from selected registrants.
New & Younger Member Meet & Mingle | 4:45pm – 5:45pm | Pinz & Pints Game Room (On Property)
Join your colleagues for games, food, fun, and conversations at this networking event. This event is for new & younger members only. Pre-registration is required; limited space available.
California Component Happy Hour | 5:30pm – 6:30pm
California members will enjoy time to socialize, celebrate award winners, and transition officers. Ticketed event; pre-registration required.
Closing Celebration* | 6:30pm – 8:30pm | Masters Plaza (On Property)
This event will feature a chip shot contest and Rat Pack entertainment. Bring your guests for an epic evening with friends and colleagues as we celebrate in classic 50’s ‘Old Hollywood’ retro style and glitzy glamour.
Join your component (or RMSO) companions at the start of the Closing Celebration to socialize with members from your state/province. A group photo will be taken of all component members in attendance.
*Admission is included for registered attendees and includes food and one drink. Tickets for non-registered meeting attendees are available for purchase.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
