Dentistry Commons^™

The Raci Matrix And Its Use In The Office, Michelle C. Dziurgot Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The RACI Matrix, crucial in office management, delegates tasks efficiently: Responsible individuals, like lead assistants, handle specific duties; Accountable, typically the manager, ensures smooth operations; Consulted, such as patients, provide input; Informed parties, like lab technicians, contribute expertise. By adhering to RACI, dental offices optimize workflow, enhance patient care, and address challenges effectively, ensuring a harmonious and efficient practice.

Advocacy Spotlight: Sen. Sam Singh, Mda Legislator Of The Year, Neema Katibai Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Sen. Sam Singh, Michigan Senate Majority Floor Leader and MDA Legislative Achievement Award recipient, discusses oral health priorities and legislative successes. In an interview, Singh highlights the passage of SB 280, which ensures oral health assessments for kindergarteners, and SB 281, which enhances network leasing transparency. Singh emphasizes the importance of oral health in overall well-being and bipartisan support for these initiatives. He credits the Michigan Dental Association for its advocacy and advises dentists to engage in advocacy through associations and direct communication with elected officials.

Mda At Your Service: How Can I Choose The Right Associate Position?, Kristin Johnson Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

MDA Staff, with input from Membership Chair Kristin Johnson, DDS, advise dentists on various concerns: reviewing employment contracts with legal counsel, updating personal/practice info, obtaining MDA logo for websites, and enhancing visibility on Find a Dentist platforms. Legal and ethical considerations are highlighted when terminating difficult patient relationships. Membership benefits include contract reviews and promotional resources.

Dentistry And The Law: Taking Records When Leaving A Practice, Dan Schulte Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

MDA Legal Counsel Dan Schulte advises on departing partner issues: without contracts, disputes arise regarding records, patient ownership, and practice buyout. Employment and shareholder agreements ensure orderly transitions and protect practice interests. Patient records legally belong to the practice, and transferring them without consent violates laws. Patients can request records, but fees apply. Schulte stresses the importance of agreements to avoid costly disputes and ensure continuity of care.

The New Professional: Navigating The Journey: Finding Your Practice Philosophy As A New Dentist, Amrita Patel Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Dr. Amrita Patel highlights the importance of defining a practice philosophy as a new dentist. Self-reflection, mentorship, patient-centered care, continuous learning, and adaptability are crucial elements in this journey. Embracing personal values and ethics ensures authenticity and guides decision-making. The evolving nature of this philosophy underscores the need for flexibility and openness to change. Dentists can shape their professional identity and approach to patient care through introspection and experiential learning.

J Mich Dent Assoc May 2024

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Every month, The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association provides news, information, and features about Michigan dentistry to our state's oral health community and the MDA's 6,200+ members. It stands as the primary publication reaching Michigan dentists.

In the May 2024 issue, the Journal focuses on the landscape of practicing in rural settings. Original content includes:

• A cover story interview introducing MDA President Todd Christy

• A feature clinical case report on Proliferative Verrucous Leukoplakia Progressing to Squamous Cell Carcinoma

• Profiles of the 2024 MDA Awards Recipients

• A New Professional Column: “Navigating the Journey: Finding Your Practice Philosophy as a New …

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Staff Matters: Utilizing ‘Unretired’ Workers To Address Hiring Challenges, Jodi Schafer Sphr, Shrm-Scp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Jodi Schafer suggests targeting "unretired" workers to address front office staffing challenges in dental practices. These retirees bring valuable experience, reliability, and a commitment to customer service. Strategies include offering flexible schedules and competitive benefits and targeting recruitment efforts through networks frequented by retirees. Utilizing this demographic can supplement and support full-time staff, alleviating hiring difficulties.

Mda Foundation: Mda Foundation Grant Helps Huda Clinic Celebrate 20 Years Of Service, Anne Berquist

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

MDA Foundation Director discusses the 20th anniversary of HUDA Clinic, Detroit's largest free clinic, providing crucial medical, dental, and mental health services to the uninsured. Supported by a $10,000 grant from the MDA Foundation, HUDA plans to expand dental services due to overwhelming demand, aiming to provide daily care. They seek volunteers and donations to meet the significant need, especially for dentures. Expansion plans include collaboration with local dental schools and community colleges.

The Back Page Commentary: Mda Leaders And Students Attend Ada Student Lobby Day In Washington, D.C., Christopher J. Smiley Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

A group of MDA leaders and students from the University of Detroit Mercy and University of Michigan dental schools traveled to the nation’s capital city April 7-9 to participate in the American Dental Association’s 2024 Student Lobby Day activities.

Dr. Todd Christy: Meet Your 2024-25 Mda President, David Foe Ma, Cde

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Dr. Todd Christy, DDS, inaugurated as Michigan Dental Association (MDA) president, brings extensive experience within MDA leadership. Practicing in southwest Michigan, he aims to address workforce shortage, practice profitability, and practice sales difficulties. His tenure prioritizes advocating for effective legislation, fostering dental equity, and enhancing workforce diversity. Christy champions member involvement, emphasizing local engagement and MDA mentoring programs. Committed to improving communication and member services, he highlights MDA's strengths in education, advocacy, and insurance services. Beyond dentistry, Christy enjoys outdoor activities with his family and looks forward to statewide community engagement during his presidency.

Here Are The Mda Award Winners For 2024, David Foe Ma Cde

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The Michigan Dental Association (MDA) awarded outstanding individuals and organizations in 2024, highlighting dedication to dentistry and community service. Notable winners include Dr. Richard Charlick, honored for decades of teaching and mission work, Dr. Daniel Miller for leadership across dentistry, and Dr. Michael Haddow and Scott Ward for exceptional public service. Educators Dr. Sarah Tomaka and Dr. Gary Bonior were recognized for their contributions to dental education, while Becky Wooters facilitated dental assistant training at tribal colleges. NDX Dental Art Laboratory and Dr. Michael Vilag were commended for their work with Donated Dental Services, alongside rising star Dr. Katherine Cramer. …

Proliferative Verrucous Leukoplakia Progressing To Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Case Report, Magdalena Orlowska Dds, Felipe Nör Dds, Ms, Phd, Robert Eber Dds, Ms, Stepanie Munz Dds, David Tindle Dds, Ms

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Proliferative verrucous leukoplakia (PVL) is an uncommon type of oral leukoplakia characterized by white patches featuring verrucoid areas. It is a condition of idiopathic origin, displaying a strong tendency to transform into squamous cell carcinoma, verrucous carcinoma, or the newly described particulate carcinoma. PVL is more commonly found in elderly women who have had leukoplakic lesions for many years. Although PVL may be found virtually anywhere in the oral cavity, the buccal mucosa, gingiva, and tongue are the most common sites. In this case, we describe a lesion of this nature found in an elderly male patient. PVL is difficult …

What You Should Know About Michigan’S Revised Kindergarten Oral Health Assessment Law, Michele Kawabe Mph, Rd, Cdces

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Starting from the 2024-25 academic year, Michigan mandates a pre-school oral health assessment for all incoming kindergarten students. Michele Kawabe, MPH, RD, CDCES, explains the legislative change, its implementation through the Kindergarten Oral Health Assessment (KOHA) program, and its potential impact on dental offices. This feature provides insights into frequently asked questions, covering assessment protocols, forms, patient records, reimbursement, and data tracking by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS).

News You Need, David Foe Ma

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The upcoming Annual Session in Lansing, from April 17-20, offers opportunities for dental professionals to access quality continuing education, explore the expansive exhibit hall, and engage in special events like the Sparkling Smiles Celebration. The MDA Board of Trustees discussed the proposed new ADA Tripartite Membership Model, aiming to enhance engagement and offer targeted benefits. Additionally, volunteers are still needed for the Mission of Mercy program, and the MDA emphasizes the importance of dentists as mandated reporters for child abuse or neglect.

J Mich Dent Assoc April 2024

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Every month, The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association provides news, information, and features about Michigan dentistry to our state's oral health community and the MDA's 6,200+ members. It stands as the primary publication reaching Michigan dentists.

In the April 2024 issue, the Journal focuses on the landscape of practicing in rural settings. Original content includes:

• A cover story highlighting Michigan’s Donated Dental Service Program
• A feature on Michigan’s Revised Kindergarten Oral Health Assessment Law
• A feature article on the origins, future, and use of the CDT Code
• Profiles of the 2024-25 MDA Officer, Trustee and ADA Delegation candidate
• An …

Agents Of Change: Which One Are You?, Michelle C. Dziurgot Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

In her editorial, Michelle C. Dziurgot, DDS, explores various roles dentists play as agents of change, including catalysts for urgency, collaborators with specialists, diligent workers for accuracy, risk-taking entrepreneurs, charismatic leaders, and peacemakers who resolve conflicts within their practices.

The Mda’S Michigan Donated Dental Services (Dds) Program: How To Serve The Elderly And Disabled In Your Community And Build Your Team (Without Leaving Your Office!), April Stopczynski

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

April Stopczynski, MDA Manager of Access and Prevention, sheds light on the Michigan Donated Dental Services (DDS) program, elucidating its impact on individuals through poignant patient narratives and dentist testimonials. The article illustrates how DDS bridges the gap in dental care for the elderly, disabled, and financially compromised individuals in Michigan. The program not only restores smiles but also transforms lives by providing much-needed dental treatment through volunteer dentists and labs. This article presents the value of DDS for patients, providers, dental team members and the greater community. Information is provided on how to participate in this transformative program.

Governmental Affairs Update: Dental Medicaid, Neema Katibai Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The MDA spearheads an initiative to enhance Medicaid anesthesia services reimbursement, aiming to address the disparity between current rates and commercial standards. Despite recent improvements in Medicaid dental benefits, access to care remains hindered by low anesthesia reimbursement rates. The MDA advocates for a substantial investment to increase reimbursement to 85% of commercial rates, garnering support from various medical associations. This collaborative effort marks a significant stride towards achieving equitable Medicaid reimbursement. Grassroots advocacy is pivotal in influencing state budget decisions, urging constituents to engage with legislators via MDA text alerts.

Ada Report: Ada Board Discusses New Services, Ce Changes, And Dental School Issues, Michele Tulak-Gorecki Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Michele Gulak-Gorecki, DDS, 9th District Trustee for the ADA, highlights discussions from the winter ADA Board meeting. Key points include the emphasis on ADA values, expansion of member services such as financial offerings, updates on revenue and membership models, collaboration with new dentists, improvements in continuing education programs, and insights from dental school deans on reducing education costs.

Mda At Your Service: What Is The Beneficial Ownership Information Report?, Kristin Johnson Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

MDA Staff, with input from Kristin Johnson, DDS, explains the Beneficial Ownership Information Report required by the Corporate Transparency Act. Dental practices with fewer than 20 full-time employees and <$5M in annual sales must file by Jan. 1, 2025. They also address MIOSHA regulations, dental assistant duties, and access to MDA resources like the Delegation of Duties Chart and educational videos on infant oral health.

Dentistry And The Law: Why Dentists Must Pay Attend To Antitrust Law, Dan Schulte Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

In this month’s Dentistry and the Law column, Dan Schulte, JD, MDA Legal Counsel, emphasizes the importance of understanding antitrust laws for dentists. He explains that agreements between competitors that restrain trade are illegal and highlights the risks of price-fixing and group boycotts. Dentists should avoid any activities that may be construed as anticompetitive. Enforcement of antitrust laws can lead to criminal or civil actions, making awareness crucial.

The New Professional: Prioritize Self-Care To Avoid Burnout, Amrita Patel Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

In this inaugural column, “The New Dentist”, Dr. Amrita Patel shares her journey of recognizing and combating burnout in dentistry. She emphasizes the importance of self-care, boundary-setting, delegation, and seeking support. By prioritizing these strategies, professionals can safeguard their well-being, enhance job satisfaction, and deliver quality patient care without falling victim to burnout's detrimental effects.

Mda Foundation: Supporting Your Foundation Helps Those With The Greatest Need!, Anne Berquist

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

MDA Foundation aids the underserved through grants, scholarships, and events like Mission of Mercy (MOM). Mirlo Real Estate Partners, inspired by MOM's impact and aligned with the Foundation's mission, became its largest corporate donor. Mirlo's Nick Zagar and Remy Isdaner recognized dentists' needs and pledged substantial support. Their commitment mirrors the Foundation's ethos: helping those in need. Dental community support, volunteering, donations, and charitable distributions are vital for the Foundation's success in serving the community.

The Back Page Commentary: Care For Special Needs Patients: We Must Do Better, Craig C. Spangler Dds, Fscda

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Despite strides in providing resources for neurodivergent and geriatric patients, access to suitable dental care remains a challenge. A survey revealed finding capable dentists as the primary barrier to care for special needs individuals. Transitioning from pediatric to adult care lacks continuity, highlighting gaps in predoctoral dental education. Challenges include inadequate training, limited opportunities for continuing education, and reimbursement issues. Collaboration between medical and dental leaders is crucial for addressing these pressing issues and ensuring equitable access to care.

Challenges And Implications Of Mandated Reporting To Child Welfare In Dentistry, Katheryn Goldman Dmd, Mph, Phd, Daniel Pollack Msw, Jd

The New York State Dental Journal

Dentists are mandated reporters and are at the forefront of screening for child welfare referrals. The laws and systems surrounding reporting practice leave dentists working in pediatric settings with the responsibility of making a quick judgment about child maltreatment, with limited information, and sometimes limited training. Increased interdisciplinary collaboration and education on child welfare is necessary to better prepare and support dentists for practice with children who may present with suspected child maltreatment.

Sepsis Is Serious. Recognize The Signs, Stuart L. Segelnick Dds, Ms, Cde

The New York State Dental Journal

Untreated or poorly managed periodontal disease, caries, endodontic and dental alveolar lesions can lead to sepsis. Case reports published in dental literature highlight the morbidity and mortality of dental disease complications.

Workers' Rights Front And Center, Lance Plunkett Jd, Llm

The New York State Dental Journal

New York City takes lead in codifying employee rights and employer obligations.

Everyone Deserves A Dental Home, Loren C. Baim Dds

The New York State Dental Journal

With knowledge and preparation, dental practices should be able to accommodate the growing population of people on the autism spectrum.

Guiding Our Implants: Using Dynamic Surgical Guidance To Maximize Predictability, Shane Endres Dds, Ma, Ryan Schure Dds, Msc, Frcd

The New York State Dental Journal

Dynamic surgical guidance (DSG) is a recent advance in implant dentistry, used in an effort to maximize the efficiency and predictability of implant surgeries. A study, conducted by Navigate Surgical Technologies using the Inliant system, was undertaken in Toronto, Canada to analyze the success and accuracy of this technology. Twenty-three implants placed in twenty-two subjects were examined. The results showed that implant placement using Inliant was extremely accurate when compared to the pre-surgical plan. Additionally, there were no significant errors or deviations in implant placement. The study concluded with the Food and Drug Administration of the United States granting safety …

Peripheral Ameloblastoma: Case Report And Literature Review, Anna Cappell Cooper Ba, Daria Vasilyeva Dds, Khanh Trinh Dmd, Elizabeth Philipone Dmd

The New York State Dental Journal

Peripheral ameloblastoma is a benign, painless, and slow-growing odontogenic tumor, which commonly affects gingival soft tissues or edentulous alveolar areas. Peripheral ameloblastoma is typically found during the 5th to 7th decades of life, with a mean patient age of 52 years, and exhibits a male predilection. Histopathology features are consistent with those of conventional ameloblastoma. The treatment of choice is conservative surgical excision with minimal disease-free margins and appropriate follow-up.