2026 IAO North Central Section Meeting

The Essential Role of Myofunctional and Physical Therapy in Successful Orthodontic Outcomes

October 2, 2026 Oak Brook, Illinois at the Oakbrook Seasons 52

The 2026 IAO North Central Section Meeting is taking a new approach this year. We are moving away from the typical hotel setting to offer a restaurant-style experience. Join us for a lively, one-day event with three engaging speakers, all in a more intimate and refined atmosphere. You’ll get the same high-quality education you expect, now paired with delicious food, valuable connections, and an inspiring setting.

Three Expert Voices, One Day of Learning

Dr. Monika Tyszkowski

DDS, MSc

Lombard, IL

Molly Eirinberg

MA, CCC-SLP

Lombard, IL

Dr. Tom Komperda

PT, DPT, COMT

Lombard, IL

Use the arrows to learn more about each lecture

Dr. Monika Tyszkowski

By the end of this session, participants will be able to recognize myofunctional dysfunctions and oral habits that impact occlusion in pediatric, teen, and adult patients using a simple four-step approach, as well as gain a science-based understanding of oral dysfunctions. Attendees will also learn when to apply early orthodontic treatment to help prevent developing issues while supporting healthy airway function, and explore a range of treatment examples across different age groups. In addition, the session will highlight how myofunctional therapy supports whole-body wellness and encourages a collaborative, interdisciplinary approach to patient care.

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Molly Eirinberg

Participants will learn to recognize myofunctional dysfunctions and oral habits that impact occlusion in pediatric, teen, and adult patients in 4 easy steps, acquire science-based knowledge of oral dysfunctions, and understand when to apply early orthodontic treatment to prevent issues while fostering healthy airways. The session will also include treatment examples across ages and explore how myofunctional therapy supports whole-body wellness through a collaborative approach among professionals.

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Dr. Tom Komperda

Tom Komperda, DPT, will provide a lecture drawing parallels between positive orthodontic treatment outcomes and physical therapy (PT), including how PT benefits extend to the practitioner as well. Attendees will learn key PT methodology, including diagnosis, arthrokinematics (manual therapy), myofascial and nervous system approaches such as dry needling and cold laser, and neuromuscular re-education. The session will also cover how PT can support dental and orthodontic outcomes through posture and ergonomics, TMD management, and improving tolerance to chairside treatment, as well as how to identify appropriate referrals to a PT and perform a quick cervical screen.

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Your Registration Includes Continuing Education Credits!

When you register, whether you are an IAO member or not, INCLUDES CE Credit! This event is perfect for all IAO members and non-members to advance their orthodontic careers.

Where To Stay

For guests traveling to attend the 2026 IAO North Central Section Meeting, the nearby Chicago Marriott Oak Brook offers a convenient and comfortable stay just minutes from Seasons 52. Located in the heart of Oak Brook, this modern hotel provides easy access to dining, shopping, and the meeting venue. It is a great option for out-of-town attendees.

There is no official room block for this event, but guests can book directly with the hotel and choose accommodations that best fit their travel plans.

Rethinking the Traditional Meeting

This year’s North Central Section Meeting steps away from the traditional hotel setting and into a more elevated, intimate environment at Seasons 52. Known for its fresh, seasonal cuisine and warm, upscale atmosphere, this unique venue creates a more engaging and comfortable experience for learning and connection. By bringing education into a restaurant setting, attendees can enjoy high-quality lectures alongside exceptional dining—making the day feel less like a typical meeting and more like a thoughtfully curated experience.