Leadership

One of dentistry’s most prominent leaders, Imtiaz Manji’s industry expertise spans more than three decades. He was Co-founder and Executive Chairman of Spear Education, where his visionary approach drove the company to embrace progressive product development and reach new heights of success. His mission has always been to elevate dental practices by encouraging clinicians and teams to focus on unparalleled patient care...

One of dentistry’s most prominent leaders, Imtiaz Manji’s industry expertise spans more than three decades. He was Co-founder and Executive Chairman of Spear Education, where his visionary approach drove the company to embrace progressive product development and reach new heights of success. His mission has always been to elevate dental practices by encouraging clinicians and teams to focus on unparalleled patient care.

Mr. Manji’s experience in the dental field is both wide and deep. He pioneered practice management systems and founded a company that flourished to become one of the largest firms for dental consulting and transitioning. He partnered in a financial services company before co-founding Spear Education, a renowned hub for dentists’ post-graduate education. In the industry, Mr. Manji is legendary for his perceptive foresight. His motivational coaching demonstrates his boundless passion for the future of dentistry. By collaborating with exceptional individuals and America’s most successful practices, he continues to be a thought leader in semi-retirement, and currently serves on the board of Imagen Dental Partners. This family man finds inspiration in his sons, Kaleim and Rezwan, and grandson Liam.

Adam McWethy is a dynamic and passionate leader serving as the Director of Leadership Development at TLT. With a wealth of experience and an unwavering enthusiasm for his role, Adam is dedicated to fostering growth and excellence within the organization.
Before TLT, he was with Spear Education For nearly 11 years through multiple roles. Mr. McWethy played an integral part in the...

Adam McWethy is a dynamic and passionate leader serving as the Director of Leadership Development at TLT. With a wealth of experience and an unwavering enthusiasm for his role, Adam is dedicated to fostering growth and excellence within the organization.

Before TLT, he was with Spear Education For nearly 11 years through multiple roles. Mr. McWethy played an integral part in the company's overall growth, solidifying Spear's position as a global authority on dental education. He led multiple departments, including marketing, human resources, product, and clinical/ practice management content. He also co-authored "Case Acceptance in the Modern Dental Practice" with Dr. Frank Spear and was instrumental in the ideation, creation, and launch of over ten campus courses and hundreds of hours of video education.

Before his tenure at Spear, Adam McWethy honed his skills in a diverse range of industries, from startups to Fortune 500 companies. This breadth of experience has equipped him with the adaptability and versatility needed to build exceptional organizations in any business climate.

When not working, he enjoys time with his kids and occasionally sneaks out into the wilderness when time permits

Dusty Heal is a seasoned professional with over a decade of experience in the dental industry, specializing in consulting for practice owners, working with specialists, and driving strategic initiatives.
With a deep understanding of the unique needs and inner workings of oral surgeons, periodontists, and endodontists...

Dusty Heal is a seasoned professional with over a decade of experience in the dental industry, specializing in consulting for practice owners, working with specialists, and driving strategic initiatives. With a deep understanding of the unique needs and inner workings of oral surgeons, periodontists, and endodontists, Dusty has developed tailored strategies that optimize workflows, improve patient outcomes, and support sustainable growth.

Dusty’s career includes notable leadership roles, such as working alongside industry expert Dr. Roger Levin at Levin Group, where he gained invaluable insight into practice management and business optimization. As President of the Strategic Alliance Group, he provided strategic consulting to dental practices, equipping them with the tools and strategies needed to excel in a competitive market. Most recently, as Director of Consulting Excellence at Spear Education, Dusty has been instrumental in developing and executing programs that support practice owners, specialists, and their teams in achieving clinical and business success.

Having collaborated closely with specialists, Dusty has a keen insight into the operational and clinical challenges faced by oral surgeons, periodontists, and endodontists. His expertise extends to streamlining surgical schedules for oral surgeons, enhancing referral networks for periodontists, and leveraging technology to improve diagnostics and patient care for endodontists. This comprehensive understanding allows him to deliver actionable solutions tailored to each specialty.

Dusty’s hands-on experience includes teaching seminars and workshops designed to empower dental professionals. He has worked extensively with practice owners and their teams to foster leadership development, enhance team collaboration, and build strong leadership pipelines. His ability to align training programs with the unique needs of practices has prepared them for sustainable growth and long-term success.

As an advocate for AI integration, Dusty stays at the forefront of technological advancements in dentistry. He has introduced AI-driven solutions that improve clinical workflows, enhance diagnostics, and elevate patient experiences. By bridging the gap between cutting-edge technology and clinical application, Dusty ensures practices remain innovative and competitive.

With a unique blend of strategic vision, leadership expertise, and a deep understanding of oral surgery, periodontics, and endodontics, Dusty Heal is dedicated to helping dental professionals achieve excellence, transform their practices, and thrive in an ever-evolving industry.

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Dr. Ryaz Ansari is a board-certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon with a profound commitment to delivering exceptional quality and service in the field of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Implant Dentistry. He is the founder of JawFixers, a pioneering brand developed to bring proven, cutting-edge, technology-driven oral surgery to Greater Hartford's growing population...

Dr. Ryaz Ansari is a board-certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon with a profound commitment to delivering exceptional quality and service in the field of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Implant Dentistry. He is the founder of JawFixers, a pioneering brand developed to bring proven, cutting-edge, technology-driven oral surgery to Greater Hartford's growing population.

Dr. Ansari's journey began with a degree in Molecular Genetics from the University of Toronto. He then pursued four years of dental training at the University of Western Ontario in Canada, followed by a one-year General Practice Residency at the University of Toronto. His passion for surgery led him to the Residency Training Program in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at the Brooklyn Hospital Center, an affiliate of Cornell University. To further refine his surgical skills, Dr. Ansari completed a fellowship in Cosmetic/Maxillofacial Surgery at the Missouri Baptist Medical Center in St. Louis.

Under his leadership, JawFixers was one of the first practices in Connecticut to adopt cone beam technology for oral surgery, setting the stage for guided surgery, which has become a cornerstone of their implant practice today. Dr. Ansari, along with his partner Dr. Joel Rosenlicht, has consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation in the field. Their practice was among the first to implement navigational systems for implant surgery, including the X-nav. Most recently, Dr. Ansari made headlines as the first surgeon in Connecticut to place a dental implant using advanced robotic technology(YOMI), an achievement that earned him a feature in Hartford Magazine's Top Dentists issue.

In addition to his clinical expertise, Dr. Ansari has a strong entrepreneurial spirit, which has fueled the growth of the JawFixers brand. Over the past few years, the practice has expanded to five locations around the Hartford area, supported by a team of five surgeons. Dr. Ansari credits this success to his interest in the entrepreneurial mindset and his decade-long affiliation with the Entrepreneurs Organization (EO).

Dr. Ansari's practice philosophy is deeply rooted in interdisciplinary care and continuing education. JawFixers runs two affiliate Spear Study Clubs and a Seattle Study Club for dentists and specialists, fostering a collaborative environment for professional growth. He has delivered educational content to local hygienists for over a decade through interdisciplinary programs.

Dr. Ansari currently resides with his wife, son, and daughter in West Hartford, CT.

To learn more about Dr. Ansari and his practice, please visit www.JawFixers.com.

Dr. Simon Bernstein practices as a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology. He holds a BA in Neurobiology at Cornell University, a Dental Doctorate from the Columbia University School of Dental Medicine and a Certificate in Periodontics from the University of Michigan.
Dr. Bernstein’s practice is focused on Advanced Regeneration, Implants and Digital Dentistry. He has been involved with several research...

Dr. Simon Bernstein practices as a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology. He holds a BA in Neurobiology at Cornell University, a Dental Doctorate from the Columbia University School of Dental Medicine and a Certificate in Periodontics from the University of Michigan.

Dr. Bernstein’s practice is focused on Advanced Regeneration, Implants and Digital Dentistry. He has been involved with several research projects conducting trials for implant and bone augmentation. He is currently conducting research in the field of immediate implant-based full arch restorations.

Dr. Bernstein is certified in the administration of IV conscious sedation and offers this service for the patients at the Perico Group. He was an advisor to the Massachusetts State Board of Dentistry in developing the regulations for administering intravenous, conscious sedation in dental offices.

Dr. Bernstein is a key opinion leader for Solea Laser in the development of protocols for minimally invasive techniques using lasers to treat periodontal disease and peri-implantitis. He leads several Spear Education groups as well as multiple Mini-Residency Programs, both of which are designed as small group learning forums for local dental professionals. Dr. Bernstein lectures locally, nationally and internationally and maintains membership in the American Academy of Periodontology.

Dr. Bernstein grew up in New Jersey (go Yankees!) and met his wife while attending school in New York. Today, he and his family reside in Marblehead.   Dr. Bernstein can be found cruising around town in his classic Ford Bronco, coaching youth lacrosse, refining his pit-master skills and challenging his friends at the nearest trivia competition.

My name is Tom Kang and I am a Periodontist practicing in Seattle, Washington. I make my home on the shores of Lake Washington, (Bellevue) with my wife Katie and two teenage boys, Michael and Marcus. I am the proud founder of Puget Sound Periodotics, a three-location periodontal and dental implant specialty practice. We started the practice in 2006 as a denovo and with the help of my wife Katie, my partners Kevin and Allen...

My name is Tom Kang and I am a Periodontist practicing in Seattle, Washington. I make my home on the shores of Lake Washington, (Bellevue) with my wife Katie and two teenage boys, Michael and Marcus. I am the proud founder of Puget Sound Periodotics, a three-location periodontal and dental implant specialty practice. We started the practice in 2006 as a denovo and with the help of my wife Katie, my partners Kevin and Allen, we’ve developed it into a six-periodontist practice with a support team of forty.

We are committed to a CANI way of living and believe that the secret to our continued growth and success is built around our core values of community, mentorship, service, leadership and respect. In support of these values, we’ve always taken the position that we all drink from a well which we did not dig. As a result, true sharing is giving that which one might normally keep only for themselves. Through this approach to life (and practice) with the belief that there is abundance we continue to grow our circle in the community.

My education has consisted of the University of Washington (BS), University of the Pacific (Dugoni)(DDS), University of Pittsburgh (Perio) and returned to UW for completion of the Executive Development Program in Leadership at the Foster School of Business. In addition to being a periodontist I am also a consultant, entrepreneur, angel investor and real estate investor.

My greatest pride is my family. My father was a US Army Veteran and came to the United State with my mother in search of a better opportunity. They raised my brother and I in Issaquah, Washington. I loved being a high school wrestler and found as a captain of my football and wrestling teams growing up that I loved being in a position of leadership where I could positively influence the team around me. Watching my children grow into young adults has been especially rewarding.

As I am now in my late forties and I see the seasons of life changing before me I am invigorated to take part in the Leadership Thread’s pilot program and hope to give at least as much I as receive to this group.

Dr. Sabrina Mancini has distinguished herself in the field of dentistry through her unwavering dedication to clinical excellence, compassionate care, and a passion for education. A graduate of McGill University's Faculty of Dentistry in 1994, she further honed her expertise with a Master of Science in Periodontology from the University of Toronto in 1998. After practicing as an associate for ten years, Dr. Mancini established her own practice, embodying her core beliefs and values...

Dr. Sabrina Mancini has distinguished herself in the field of dentistry through her unwavering dedication to clinical excellence, compassionate care, and a passion for education. A graduate of McGill University's Faculty of Dentistry in 1994, she further honed her expertise with a Master of Science in Periodontology from the University of Toronto in 1998. After practicing as an associate for ten years, Dr. Mancini established her own practice, embodying her core beliefs and values.

Renowned for her expert care and empathetic approach, Dr. Mancini is a respected figure both in her practice and within the broader dental community. She actively enhances her professional practice by integrating education, teaching at several Montreal hospital residency programs, and leading Spear Study Clubs to promote collective growth and knowledge exchange.

Her leadership extends beyond her clinical and educational roles; Dr. Mancini has also served as president of various dental clubs, profoundly influencing dental practices across Montreal. Her personal life is as vibrant as her professional one, filled with arts and outdoor activities shared with her husband and twin children, reflecting her commitment to a balanced life.

Dr. Mancini's philosophy is founded on creating an environment where patients receive the highest quality care and where her team is empowered to excel. This vision continuously shapes her approach, aiming for a seamless integration of patient care and professional education.

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“In every patient interaction and educational encounter, I embody clinical excellence, empathetic care, and a commitment to learning. These principles shape the collaborative and nurturing atmosphere of my practice, enhancing patient outcomes and fostering continuous professional growth. I am dedicated to building a practice where clinical expertise and compassionate care are integrated with a culture of shared learning and collective advancement."

After completing his residency in 2012, Dr. Caesar Sweidan took a leap of faith and started a de novo periodontics and implant practice in the Greater New Orleans area. Even though starting from the ground up was daunting, his commitment to building a practice of his vision drove him to pursue this challenging path. The first few years were both exciting and challenging, allowing him to shape the practice according to his vision...

After completing his residency in 2012, Dr. Caesar Sweidan took a leap of faith and started a de novo periodontics and implant practice in the Greater New Orleans area. Even though starting from the ground up was daunting, his commitment to building a practice of his vision drove him to pursue this challenging path. The first few years were both exciting and challenging, allowing him to shape the practice according to his vision.

Dr. Sweidan quickly became the specialist of choice for comprehensive periodontal and implant care in the region. His curiosity to learn, grow, and excel both clinically and as a leader made him realize that continuous learning was the key to every successful practice. This commitment led him to found multiple study clubs for doctors and hygienists and become an active member of the local dental community. Recognizing the need for collaborative growth, he expanded his practice in 2018 to accommodate a growing patient base, opening two new facilities—one with a dedicated continuing education room that can fit more than 40 people.

Just a few years later, Dr. Sweidan further expanded his reach by acquiring two existing specialty practices. Today, with a team that includes four full-time specialists, he remains focused on providing exceptional periodontal care through a culture of patient-centric collaboration, where every team member is committed to delivering personalized, top-tier treatment.

Dr. Sweidan is married to Dr. Britney Beard from Baton Rouge, and they live in Mandeville, Louisiana, with their four children—Summer, Ellen, Michael, and Grace. He enjoys spending time with his family, playing soccer, grappling, and engaging in outdoor activities.

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“My commitment to collaborative care, continuous learning, and fostering a patient-centric culture has fueled great success in patient outcomes and professional growth. I believe in creating practices that not only excel clinically but also nurture every member to thrive and grow together.”

Dr. Lisa Teel is a distinguished leader in periodontics and dental implant surgery, with a career that spans both clinical excellence and visionary leadership. As the founding owner of Meridian Endodontics, Periodontics, and Implant Dentistry, Dr. Teel has cultivated a three-location practice in Wisconsin, recognized for its commitment to excellence in comprehensive care...

Dr. Lisa Teel is a distinguished leader in periodontics and dental implant surgery, with a career that spans both clinical excellence and visionary leadership. As the founding owner of Meridian Endodontics, Periodontics, and Implant Dentistry, Dr. Teel has cultivated a three-location practice in Wisconsin, recognized for its commitment to excellence in comprehensive care.

After earning her Doctorate from NYU College of Dentistry, Dr. Teel practiced as a restorative and cosmetic dentist in Greater New York City and completed a General Practice Residency at Beth Israel Medical Center. She then earned a Master of Science and a Specialty in Periodontics from Oregon Health and Sciences University. Dr. Teel has ​served as clinical faculty at the V.A. Portland Health Center and Marquette University’s Surgical Services Department.

Dr. Teel has presented on global stages, continually pushing the boundaries of excellence through interdisciplinary treatment planning and clinical care. Her passion for mentoring led to the formation of Meridian Education, an innovative surgical center and operating theater that provides digitally focused educational opportunities to dental professionals and their teams. In recognition of her contributions to the field, Dr. Teel received the 2024 Outstanding Leadership in Mentoring Award from the Wisconsin Dental Association.

Her approach to patient care is marked by her dedication to utilizing the most advanced technologies and minimally invasive procedures. Her commitment to periodontal and surgical excellence is matched by her ability to alleviate patient apprehensions, creating a soothing environment for comprehensive care.

Dr. Teel remains an active participant in the dental community, recently holding leadership roles such as President and Continuing Education Coordinator of the Greater Milwaukee Dental Association, while maintaining memberships with the American Dental Association, the American Academy of Periodontology, and the Academy of Osseointegration. Her dedication to advancing the field and her ongoing mentorship continue to impact the lives of colleagues and patients alike.

Beyond her professional achievements, Dr. Teel finds inspiration in her family and ​a​dventure pursuits. She enjoys traveling, skiing, diving, and exploring nature with her husband and children.

Dr. Michael Tulkki is an accomplished leader poised to make a transformative impact within the Leadership Thread. With nearly 20 years of experience as a board-certified endodontist at Wayzata Endodontics, PA in Wayzata, MN, Dr. Tulkki has established himself as a pioneer in advanced root canal procedures. His relentless pursuit of excellence is evident in his adept use of state-of-the-art technology and innovative techniques...

Dr. Michael Tulkki is an accomplished leader poised to make a transformative impact within the Leadership Thread. With nearly 20 years of experience as a board-certified endodontist at Wayzata Endodontics, PA in Wayzata, MN, Dr. Tulkki has established himself as a pioneer in advanced root canal procedures. His relentless pursuit of excellence is evident in his adept use of state-of-the-art technology and innovative techniques to continually enhance patient outcomes.

Dr. Tulkki earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree and a Master of Science in advanced endodontics from the renowned University of MN School of Dentistry. This rigorous training has equipped him with a deep well of knowledge and expertise that he brings to every aspect of his work.

Dr. Tulkki is a trailblazer in dental innovation. He is the founder of Clinic Shield Scrubs, a company dedicated to designing high-quality, functional scrubs specifically for dental professionals. His role as a clinical consultant for various companies in product design and 3D microscopy further underscores his influence in shaping cutting-edge dental technologies. Dr. Tulkki’s insights and forward-thinking approach have made him a key player in driving advancements within the industry.

His commitment to improving lives extends beyond his professional sphere. He is a co-founder of the Cancer Care Foundation of MN, an organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for cancer patients. His active involvement with the foundation highlights his dedication to broader healthcare and community service, reflecting his deep-seated belief in making a positive impact on society.

Outside of his professional and philanthropic endeavors, Dr. Tulkki enjoys a vibrant personal life in Orono, MN with his wife, Amy, a dedicated veterinarian, and their three energetic children. The family actively participates in youth sports, skiing, and traveling, embodying a well-rounded and active approach to life.

Dr. Tulkki’s blend of clinical expertise, innovative spirit, and community commitment uniquely positions him to lead with vision and enthusiasm within the Leadership Council. His proven track record and dynamic approach promise to drive forward-thinking solutions and meaningful progress in his new role.

Dr. Jeremy Ueno is a trailblazing force in the world of dentistry. As the visionary founder of Ueno Center Dental Specialists, a cutting-edge multi-specialty surgical group in the heart of Silicon Valley, he has set a new standard for dental care, becoming the go-to surgical specialist for the Apple Wellness Center. A board-certified periodontist with a unique background in IT, Dr. Ueno is passionate about integrating the latest...

Dr. Jeremy Ueno is a trailblazing force in the world of dentistry. As the visionary founder of Ueno Center Dental Specialists, a cutting-edge multi-specialty surgical group in the heart of Silicon Valley, he has set a new standard for dental care, becoming the go-to surgical specialist for the Apple Wellness Center. A board-certified periodontist with a unique background in IT, Dr. Ueno is passionate about integrating the latest technology into every procedure, from advanced photogrammetry to 3D printing for same-day digital AOX conversions.

As the author of Oral Fitness: How Complete Health Dentistry is Revolutionizing America, Dr. Ueno is a passionate advocate for the oral-systemic connection, helping patients understand the crucial link between dental health and overall wellness. He leads multiple study clubs and teaches hands-on and live surgery courses on full arch procedures, sharing his expertise with peers and advancing the field. His influence extends far beyond the clinic; he is a sought-after speaker who regularly lectures nationally and internationally on the latest trends in periodontology and implantology. His recent presentation in Tokyo on full arch procedures is poised to revolutionize the practice in Japan, where the technique is just beginning to gain traction.

Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Ueno is deeply committed to philanthropy. He has participated in numerous dental mission trips to El Salvador and Guatemala, providing essential care to underserved communities. Inspired by his son Riley’s journey with moderate-functioning autism, diagnosed in 2018, Dr. Ueno has become a passionate advocate for autism awareness and support. He co-chairs the annual Starry Foundation Luncheons in San Francisco and has organized multiple fundraisers within the dental community to support charities like Autism Speaks and Parents Helping Parents.

With a boundless energy and dedication to excellence, Dr. Ueno continues to inspire and lead in both his professional and personal endeavors.