Thurs., Nov. 6, 2025
1:30pm – 4:00pm (2.5 CE hrs / Lecture)
Room 106-B
Speakers: Mike Buckner, Allan Corkum, Colleen Huff, FAADOM, and Matthew Martin

This course is supported, in part, by educational grants from Pearl, United Healthcare,  Colleen Huff, Dental Insurance Coach, and SKYGEN USA.

Recommended for: Everyone

This seminar explores how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming dentistry, from clinical practices to insurance processes. The event is split into two main sections: a presentation on AI’s impact in dental practices and a panel discussion with insurance leaders on industry changes.

Part I: AI in Dental Practices

Mike Buckner, EVP of Revenue

Part I will explore how AI-driven solutions can streamline key office workflows, eliminate redundancies, and free up valuable time for staff to focus on patient care. Attendees will gain practical insights into how AI can support insurance verification, optimize daily operations, and contribute to a more productive and profitable practice.

Learning Objectives: 

• Understand the Role of AI in Office Efficiency – Explore how AI-powered automation can reduce manual administrative tasks, minimize errors, and enhance workflow efficiency in scheduling, documentation, and patient communication.
• Demystify AI-Driven Insurance Verification – Learn how AI enhances insurance verification by providing real-time eligibility insights, reducing claim denials, and streamlining the patient intake process.
• Leverage AI for Smarter Decision-Making – Discover how AI-driven analytics and insights can help teams make more informed decisions, improve treatment acceptance, and create a more seamless patient experience.

Part II: Panel Discussion – Dental Insurance Today and Tomorrow

Allan Corkum, Colleen Huff, FAADOM and Matthew Martin

A panel of insurance experts will discuss:

• Current trends and challenges in dental insurance.
• How AI is streamlining claims review, fraud detection, and communications.
• Benefits for patients, providers, and insurers.
• Audience Q&A.

Participants will gain a clear understanding of AI’s evolving role in dentistry and insurance, preparing them for the industry’s future.

Mike Buckner is a seasoned leader in dental technology, with over 13 years of experience driving innovation, growth, and strategic partnerships in the industry. Throughout his career, he has played a pivotal role in transforming how dental practices leverage technology to enhance efficiency, elevate patient care, and maximize production.

Mike was instrumental in shaping the early adoption of patient communication software at Solutionreach, helping practices transition to text-based appointment confirmations. He then played a key role in scaling Dental Intelligence, empowering practices with data-driven insights to optimize performance and practice health. At Weave, he led partnership growth strategies during the company’s rapid expansion.

Now, as the Executive Vice President of Revenue at Pearl, Mike is at the forefront of Al-driven advancements in dentistry. Under his leadership, Pearl has continued to expand its impact in the dental industry, becoming the first company to secure comprehensive FDA clearance for

Al-powered radiologic assistance-helping clinicians and teams enhance the detection and diagnosis of pathologies.

A recognized expert in dental technology and practice optimization, Mike is passionate about helping dental professionals embrace innovation to improve outcomes and future-proof their businesses.

Allan R. Corkum, FSA, MAAA is a nationally recognized leader in dental and vision benefits with over 20 years of experience in actuarial strategy, network development, and healthcare innovation. As VP of Dental Networks at UnitedHealthcare, he oversees provider engagement, compliance, and infrastructure across Commercial, Medicare Advantage, and Medicaid. A Fellow of the Society of Actuaries, Allan chairs the NADP Research Commission, has served on the Strategic Plan Steering Committee, and received the Don Mayes Leadership and Star Awards. He’s known for collaborative leadership, data-driven decisions, and advancing the dental industry through strategic contributions and speaking engagements.

Colleen Huff, FAADOM is a powerhouse in the dental industry with over three decades of experience. From her humble beginnings as a Metlife Dental customer service rep to becoming a sought-after dental insurance expert, Colleen’s journey has been truly extraordinary.

After cutting her teeth in New Jersey dental practices, Colleen’s career skyrocketed. She masterfully juggled multi-location practice management, grew a practice from the ground up and established a dental study group for Practice Administrators. In 2021, she shifted her focus to full-time consultation and public speaking, leveraging her vast experience and extensive expertise

Now, as the “Dental Insurance Coach,” Colleen is revolutionizing revenue cycle management and insurance processes for practices nationwide. Her dynamic presentations at national conferences, study groups, and podcasts are transforming the way dental professionals approach insurance complexities.

Colleen’s expertise culminated in her debut book, “A Mouthful of Insurance,” released in July 2024. Her insights grace the pages of top dental trade magazines, solidifying her status as an industry thought leader. Recognized as one of the TOP 25 Women in Dentistry in 2017, Colleen’s impact is undeniable. Her stint as the “Insurance Guru” with Front Office Rocks from 2018-2024 further cemented her reputation, and now, she’s empowering professionals through online courses on her website.

Matt Martin is an accomplished healthcare technology professional with over a decade of experience at SKYGEN, where he currently serves as Product Manager for the Dental Hub™, one of the company’s most innovative platforms. A former educator turned industry expert, Matthew brings a unique perspective to his work, combining a passion for problem-solving with deep operational insight into the dental and vision benefits ecosystem.

At SKYGEN, Matt has held a variety of roles including Business Development Advisor, Manager of the Innovations Lab, and Web Portal Manager. These roles have enabled him to work closely with both commercial and government payers, delivering strategic solutions that enhance administrative efficiency, provider engagement, and member satisfaction. His experience spans network development, provider data management, self-service technologies, and digital transformation initiatives within healthcare benefits administration.

In his current role, Matthew leads SKYGEN’s Dental Hub™, a groundbreaking multi-payer platform designed to modernize dental business interactions. The Dental Hub streamlines everything from provider credentialing and contracting to eligibility checks, claims submission, and real-time treatment plan processing—all through a single interface. Under Matt’s leadership, the Dental Hub continues to grow as a central hub for payers, providers, and industry partners looking to reduce costs, improve access, and elevate the provider experience.

Matt holds a degree from the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire and is a sought-after speaker for his ability to translate complex healthcare technologies into practical, impactful solutions for today’s most pressing industry challenges.

Mr. Buckner (or an immediate family member) has a significant relationship with the following commercial organizations whose products he will refer to in his presentation: Pearl.

Mr. Corkum (or an immediate family member) has a significant relationship with the following commercial organizations whose products he will refer to in his presentation: United Healthcare.

Ms. Huff (or an immediate family member) has a significant relationship with the following commercial organizations whose products she will refer to in her presentation: Pearl.

Mr. Martin (or an immediate family member) has a significant relationship with the following commercial organizations whose products he will refer to in his presentation: SKYGEN USA.

The University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine, Office of Alumni Relations and Professional Engagement designates this activity for 2.5 continuing education credits.