More than 30,000 dentists and dental professionals came to Chicago to explore the latest innovations and techniques in dentistry at the Chicago Dental Society’s (CDS) 147th annual Midwinter Meeting last weekend. Held at McCormick Place’s West Building, the Midwinter Meeting attracted dental professionals and more than 600 exhibitors from around the world.

According to Expo magazine, the Midwinter Meeting is one of the largest exhibits of dental products in North America, and among the top four health care trade shows in the country,

Attendees at the recent meeting had a first look at what’s new in dentistry as well as access to educational programs that addressed all aspects of dentistry, including more than 120 speakers, 190 courses, and 38 hands-on courses.

The CDS also released results from its ninth annual member dentist survey. More than 100 dentists responded to the fall 2011 survey. Major findings include that more than 67% of dentists surveyed say that their practice has a Facebook page, which is up from a 17% response last year. Nearly 24% say their practice uses Twitter, up from 6%, and 14% are using YouTube, up from 4%.

The survey also found that 70% of the dentists volunteer their services to dental charities. More than 80% said they provide discounted services at their practice, while more than 70% said they donate supplies.