About Midwest Perio

President’s Message

6/30/2026

Greetings from Cleveland, Ohio!

Dear members of the Midwest Society of Periodontology (MSP),

My name is Andre Paes da Silva, Associate Professor in the Department of Periodontics at Case Western Reserve University. It is a true honor to serve as President of the MSP this year. I am continually inspired by the leadership and membership of our society, which has made significant contributions not only regionally, but nationally as well.

I want to express my gratitude to Dr. Paul Ricchetti for inviting me to join the organization 14 years ago. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege to contribute in many capacities and to learn from outstanding leaders in our specialty. I encourage all members—especially our newer and younger colleagues—to get involved with MSP by joining committees or working groups. Your engagement is vital to our continued growth and success.

I hope you are enjoying the summer, even though it always seems to pass too quickly. As we look ahead to the final quarter of 2026 and prepare for new beginnings in 2027, I’m pleased to report that MSP remains strong: our finances are solid, our committees are productive, and our board is highly engaged, thanks in no small part to our invaluable executive director, Timothy Walsh.

Please mark your calendars for the next MSP Annual Meeting, February 26–28, 2027. Dr. Gian Pietro Schincaglia, our Program Chair, has put together an outstanding educational program. We are excited to welcome several renowned speakers who will share their expertise with us.

Friday will feature two laser-focused sessions, highlighting the expanding role of periodontists in airway-centered care and periodontal therapy. Milton Geivelis, DDS, MS will present on the diagnosis and surgical management of tethered oral tissues using CO₂ laser and combination techniques, with hands-on training and practical clinical guidance. Alan Dalessandro, DDS will address Nd:YAG and Er:YAG lasers in periodontal and peri-implant therapy, discussing wavelength-specific applications, enhanced healing through photobiomodulation, and hands-on use of both laser systems.

Saturday will feature “Bone Grafting to Optimize Surgical Outcomes for the Periodontist,” presented by Bradley S. McAllister, PhD. This session will review biologic principles and materials for grafting success, with practical strategies for implant site development, peri-implantitis treatment, and periodontal regeneration.

Sunday concludes with “45 Years of Soft Tissue Reconstruction: What Have We Learned?” presented by Joe Iwanaga, DDS, PhD; Peter O. Cabrera, DDS; and Tim Walsh, DDS. This session integrates contemporary anatomical insights with decades of clinical experience to guide diagnosis, prevention, and management of mucogingival deformities around teeth and implants.

This program reflects MSP’s commitment to concise, clinically relevant education that advances patient care. Enjoy the rest of your summer, and I hope to see many of you this fall at the AAP 112th Annual Meeting in Seattle (October 29–November 1). Thank you again for giving me the privilege to serve you. I look forward to working together and wish you all the best!

Warm regards,

Andre Paes da Silva
President, Midwest Society of Periodontology