Leadership Commons^™

Dentistry And The Law: Employee Vs. Independent Contractor, Dan Schulte Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This month’s Dentistry and the Law column discusses hiring a dentist as an employee or an independent contractor. Employing a dentist as an independent contractor offers advantages such as avoiding compliance with various employment laws and not having to withhold taxes. However, there is uncertainty regarding whether tax and other authorities will recognize the independent contractor relationship. Factors like supervision and control play a significant role in this determination. To mitigate uncertainty, practices can contract with an entity owned by the dentist, providing a potential solution. Legal counsel is recommended for setting up such arrangements.

Ensuring An Inclusive Environment For Deaf And Hard Of Hearing Patients, Joseph Samona Dds, Michael Korleski Rdh, Bsdh, Stephen J. Stefanac Dds, Ms

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article emphasizes the need for an inclusive environment in dental practice for Deaf and hard of hearing (DHH) patients. It sheds light on the challenges faced by DHH patients during dental appointments, such as communication barriers due to mask-wearing and lack of sign language interpreters. The article highlights the importance of using proper terminology, understanding communication preferences, and providing accommodations to ensure effective communication with DHH patients. It also discusses legal requirements, including the Americans with Disabilities Act, to provide reasonable accommodations. Ensuring inclusivity in dental practice is essential to improving access to care and enhancing oral health outcomes …

The Art In Science: The University Of Michigan’S Bioartography Project, Deborah L. Gumucio Phd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

"The Art in Science: The University of Michigan’s BioArtography Project" emphasizes the importance of using art to convey scientific information to the public. Scientists and medical professionals often struggle to communicate their research effectively to non-experts. The BioArtography Project, initiated in 2005, combines art and science to bridge this communication gap. It features striking images of cells and tissues under microscopes, accompanied by lay-language descriptions of the research behind each image. The project aims to engage the public, stimulate curiosity, and convey information about scientific discoveries. BioArtography images have led to meaningful discussions with the public, dispelling myths and educating …

All You Need Is Time: Leveraging Technology And Training To Reorganize Library Staff, Tiffany Garrett

Library Scholarship

In 2022, the Roseman University of Health Sciences Library went through several major changes. We implemented an RFID self-checkout system, opened the library space for access outside of staffed hours, and reorganized library staff to better serve our campus population. This presentation will cover the justification for the changes, implementation process, and results from the first two months of working with the new model.

Covid-19 Pandemic Impact Report At The University Of New Mexico, Lisa A. Marchiondo, Shannon Sanchez-Youngman, Teagan Mullins, Naila V. Decruz-Dixon, Melanie E. Moses, Julia Fulghum

ADVANCE Reports

This report outlines four overarching issues that the COVID-19 pandemic raised or amplified for faculty, based on a survey of full-time faculty on the main campus of the University of New Mexico in Spring 2022. Some of the issues identified existed before the pandemic, which further exacerbated challenges and inequities. Results based on faculty gender, race/ethnicity, and job title are provided.

The report contains multiple recommendations for each of the four core issues that will assist individual faculty and improve campus climate and culture. Recommendations are often applicable to multiple issues, so we provide an appendix that cross-lists recommendations between …

Dentistry And The Law: Ex-Employees Who Solicit Patients Using Stolen Information, Dan Schulte Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This month’s Dentistry and the Law column discusses actions to take with a former employee who solicits patients. In cases where former employees solicit patients using stolen patient information, dental practices can take legal action. Employment agreements and employee handbooks should include confidentiality clauses. Breach of these clauses allows for lawsuits, seeking damages for business loss. Additional claims like tortious interference, unfair competition, and misappropriation may also apply. Michigan's Uniform Trade Secrets Act can provide injunctive relief and damages if the patient information is deemed a "trade secret." Seeking legal advice from an experienced attorney is essential.

How To Budget Better For Dental Supplies, Theodore C. Schumann Ii Mba, Msf, Cfp, Aif

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Managing costs effectively is essential for dental practices in an era of rising inflation. One area where overspending can occur is clinical supplies. Over time, complacency among practice owners or staff in charge of ordering supplies can lead to repeated, uninformed purchases. Setting a budget and utilizing technology for supply-sourcing decisions can help control costs. Group purchasing organizations like The Dentists Supply Company (TDSC) can offer significant savings compared to traditional dental distributors. Additionally, practice owners need to strike a balance between bargain shopping for supplies and productive dentistry. Using inferior, cheaper products can lead to complications and costly rework, …

Choosing Your Next Educational Adventure: Postgraduate Programs And Creating Your Path, Partha Mukherji Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article discusses the importance of choosing the right educational path after dental school, including post-graduate programs and self-directed learning. The author reflects on their experience in opting for a General Practice Residency (GPR) program and the advantages it offered regarding skill development and career advancement. The article emphasizes the value of lifelong learning, mentorship, and the variety of continuing education options available to dentists. It encourages new dentists to take charge of their professional development and create their unique educational track.

Staff Matters: When Do Comments About Age Become Discriminatory?, Jodi Schafer Sphr, Shrm-Scp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Age-related comments in the workplace can lead to discrimination and legal consequences. The federal Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) protects employees aged 40 or older, while Michigan law extends protection to all ages. Harassment based on age can create a hostile work environment and result in lawsuits. Employers should address such issues, educate employees about discrimination and bias, and promote a culture that values diversity.

10-Minute Ebd: Is Oil-Pulling Useful In Treating Periodontal Disease?, Heather Willey Rda

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The 10-Minute Evidence-Based Dentistry Column illustrates how to implement the evidence-based dentistry search process to quickly identify and apply the best literature to answer a clinical question. Through critical appraisal, the author of this article answers the clinical question: Is Oil-Pulling Useful in Treating Periodontal Disease? Examining the potential utility of oil-pulling as a treatment for periodontal disease and comparing it to conventional periodontal therapies. The study conducted an evidence-based search using various databases and keywords related to oil-pulling, periodontal disease, and oral health. The results revealed that oil-pulling is not a substitute for standard oral hygiene practices, and insufficient …

Be Bullish About Dentistry — Stop Doom Scrolling!, Christopher J. Smiley Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This editorial encourages readers to stop focusing on negative news feeds and provides a positive outlook on the profession of dentistry, emphasizing the potential for growth and improvement. It highlights the impact of emerging technology, increased public awareness of oral health, and the enthusiasm of new professionals. The author also stresses the need for continuous adaptation and collaboration within the dental community.

How The Mda Meets Your Need For Quality, Affordable Ce, Kevin Sloan Dds, Ms

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The Michigan Dental Association (MDA) is a prominent provider of continuing dental education (CE) in Michigan. This article includes a guide to State of Michigan Dental Licensure CE requirements and the mandated distribution of subject topics. To aid members in complying with these requirements, the MDA offers diverse educational sessions, live webinars, in-person seminars, and on-demand webinars tailored for dental professionals, including dentists, hygienists, assistants, and office staff. The MDA's CE program is shaped by its Committee on Continuing Education, comprised of diverse member dentists. The MDA collaborates with various committees, organizations, and dental societies to curate a comprehensive lineup …

Covid-19 Heroes: From Skis To Face Shields, Christopher J. Smiley Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Shaggy's Skis in Boyne City, Michigan, repurposed its ski manufacturing operations to create essential personal protective equipment (PPE) for healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. After their Facebook post asking how they could aid pandemic efforts, McLaren Hospital approached them with a request to manufacture protective face shields. Shaggy's responded by producing over 150,000 disposable shields for McLaren Health System hospitals, keeping their team employed during the shutdown. They also created shields for dental professionals, accommodating optical loops and light. The company's history of repurposing operations and Jeff Thompson's mechanical engineering background helped them adapt to manufacturing PPE. This effort …

J Mich Dent Assoc November 2022

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Monthly, The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association brings news, information, and feature articles to our state's oral health community and the MDA's 6,200+ members. No publication reaches more Michigan dentists!

In this issue, the reader will find the following original content:

• A cover story on choosing an educational path for professional enrichment
• A feature story on how a Michigan manufacturer closed during the pandemic repurposes their operations to produce essential PPE, becoming a COVID Hero for Michigan dentists.
• A feature article on how the MDA provides CE for members to comply with Licensure mandates.
• Feature information on practice management …

The Effects Of Authentic Leadership On Individual Occupational Well-Being, Tedd A. Wheeler

All Faculty and Staff Scholarship

Leaders play a critical role in an organization, and their presence and behavior significantly affect nonmanagement employee work performance, behavior, and well-being. Authentic leadership has a positive effect on an organization. The problem was nonmanagement employees spend so much time at work and desire meaningful experiences and relationships during the workday to counter feelings of uncertainty and a lack of job satisfaction. The purpose of this transcendental phenomenological study was to identify and report the lived experiences of nonmanagerial employees of the architect, engineer, and construction (AEC) industry located in the Northeastern United States about work-related well-being defined as people’s …

Protect Yourself From Occupational Risks, Christopher J. Smiley Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This month’s editorial underscores the importance of safeguarding against occupational risks in dentistry. Dr. Smiley shares personal experiences, highlighting potential hazards to oral health care workers' eyes and hearing, including intense lights, noisy equipment, and exposure to infectious pathogens. He emphasizes the need for protective eyewear, light shields, and equipment calibration to reduce eye-related risks and the use of custom musician earplugs to reduce the risk of job-related hearing damage. The overall message stresses that taking steps to protect oneself from occupational risks can preserve the quality of life and a professional career.

J Mich Dent Assoc October 2022

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Monthly, The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association brings news, information, and feature articles to our state's oral health community and the MDA's 6,200+ members. No publication reaches more Michigan dentists!

In this issue, the reader will find the following original content:

• A cover story on eye safety to reduce occupational risk of eye injury in clinical dentistry.
• A feature story on a dentist’s journey with Bell’s Palsy.
• A department reports on legal issues caring for patients suspected of being under the influence of marijuana.
• Department article on workforce and employees quietly quitting.
• Articles on MDA Public Relations Grant Recipients …

Staff Matters: Do You Have Quiet Quitters In Your Practice?, Jodi Schafer Sphr, Shrm-Scp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

In the post-COVID workplace, "quiet quitting" has become a concerning issue where employees meet basic job requirements but lack motivation. This behavior includes a reluctance to take on extra tasks or provide input. To address it, communicate with the affected employees, inquire about their well-being, and assess whether the cause is work-related or personal. Fostering appreciation, connection to the practice's goals, and open feedback can help re-engage employees. Regular one-on-one meetings promote relationships and demonstrate care for their success, improving morale and engagement.

10-Minute Ebd: Should Chipped Or Worn Dental Sealants Be Observed, Touched Up, Or Restored?, Elliot Abt Dds, Ms, Msc

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This column discusses the management of chipped or worn dental sealants in a 22-year-old patient seeking a second opinion. The author explores the need for occlusal restorations, sealant repair, or no treatment for such cases. A literature search, guided by a PICO question, reveals strong evidence supporting sealant effectiveness in preventing caries. The Cochrane review found an 88% reduction in caries odds with sealants. Clinical guidelines and systematic reviews from organizations like the American Dental Association (ADA) further endorse sealant use. The column emphasizes the importance of universal sealant application and highlights challenges in their adoption, such as concerns over …

Dentistry And The Law: Dealing With Patients Who Have Been Using Marijuana, Dan Schulte Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

When dealing with patients who emit a strong marijuana odor, it's crucial to focus on their capacity to provide informed consent and the ability to deliver treatment up to the standard of care. Judging their level of intoxication solely by appearance and smell can be unreliable, so it's best to avoid making such judgments. Instead, inform patients that you may refuse treatment if their odor or other factors hinder your ability to provide care. To prevent last-minute issues, communicate this policy in advance, particularly to patients with a history of marijuana odor. Dismissing such patients from your practice may also …

Bell’S Palsy: My Journey With A Mysterious Nerve Disorder, Sneha Shah Bds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article chronicles the personal journey of a dentist facing Bell's Palsy while pursuing licensure in the United States. Bell's Palsy, an idiopathic unilateral facial paralysis, is explored in detail, including its clinical presentation and differential diagnosis. The author shares their experiences, challenges, and treatments, shedding light on the impact of this mysterious nerve disorder on their daily life, work, and mental well-being. The article highlights the importance of early diagnosis, comprehensive evaluation, and treatment strategies for Bell's Palsy. The author's story serves as a poignant reminder for healthcare professionals to approach patients with empathy and compassion and recognize the …

Mda At Your Service: What Is The Recommendation Regarding Prescribing Clindamycin?, Eric Tye Dds, Angela Kanazeh Ms, Cmp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The MDA at Your Service Column addresses member resources available from the MDA. This month presents guidance in prescribing practices, particularly regarding clindamycin. Clindamycin’s association with an increased risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea, including Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) infection, has increased. The report highlights how to access an ADA clinical guideline, its preference for azithromycin over clindamycin, and the warning associated with prescribing clindamycin. Further reference is available in the August 2020 MDA Journal article "Antibiotic Guidelines for Dentistry: Who, When, What, Why and How to Prescribe,” by Elaine Bailey, PharmD, and Marie Fluent, DDS. Additional member resources discussed in this …

Eye Safety In Dentistry, Marie T. Fluent Dds, Cdipc

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

In this article, Dr. Fluent underscores the importance of eye safety from vision loss that ended her clinical dental career. The article emphasizes the prevalence of ocular injuries in occupational settings, with about 2,000 U.S. workers suffering job-related eye injuries daily. Dental professionals face multiple eye hazards, including flying debris, chemicals, and infectious materials. Protective eyewear is crucial, with the CDC and OSHA recommending its use.

A significant concern is the "bottom gap" in protective eyewear, which exposes dental personnel to risks. The article introduces a new ANSI standard, ANSI/ISEA Z87.62-2021, to standardize eye and face protection against bloodborne pathogens …

Dean’S Report: Detroit Mercy Dental Evolving With Purpose, Value, And Pride: A Look At The Past Year And All The People Who Made It Happen, Mert N. Aksu Dds, Jd, Mhsa, Cert. Dph

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

In the past year, the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry has continued its commitment to evidence-based clinical education, preparing ethical and culturally sensitive graduates for dental practice. Changes brought on by the pandemic have become part of the new normal, with the introduction of the HyFlex classroom format, allowing students flexibility in attending classes in person, virtually, or through recorded lectures. Clinic time and sessions have been consolidated to provide more focused patient care, with students now spending 28-30 hours per week on direct patient care. The University Health Center (UHC) clinic, which served as a significant teaching …

Dentistry And The Law: Understanding The Dental Plan Audit Process, Dan Schulte Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Dental plan audits, which can result in demands for fee repayments, often focus on recordkeeping deficiencies rather than the quality of dental services. Dentists should be aware of key points regarding these audits, including the timing, the nature of audit findings, and the lack of immunity from prior authorizations. Dentists should also request clarification when the audit results are unclear and seek explanations for alleged deficiencies. The audit process may lack a comprehensive explanation, suggesting that the primary goal for dental plans is financial recovery rather than the correction of errors or documentation improvement.

Headquarters Report: Inspire! Support! Lead! With The 2022 Leadership Forum, Karen Burgess Cae

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The Michigan Dental Association highlights the importance of volunteer leaders in the organization's success and the satisfaction of its membership. The in-person Leadership Forum for 2022 offers an exciting lineup, including topics on dental practice trends, legislative action, inclusion, and hot topics in organized dentistry. Breakout sessions cover leadership development, time management, emotional intelligence, and component engagement. Whether experienced or new to volunteer leadership, attending the Leadership Forum provides opportunities for personal and professional growth. Additionally, the article mentions various leadership opportunities available for members and encourages recognition through the MDA Committed Colleague program.

The Promise Of The White Coat, Christopher J. Smiley Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This month’s editorial discusses the significance of the White Coat Ceremony in dental education, symbolizing a promise to uphold the profession with compassion and ethical standards. Dr. Smiley reflects on the challenges of teaching lasting ethical behavior and emphasizes the importance of personal values. He shares a real-life case of a classmate's unethical behavior leading to legal consequences, highlighting the role of peers in upholding ethical standards. The editorial encourages clinicians, whether they had a formal White Coat ceremony or not, to embrace the symbolic white coat as a daily reminder of their commitment to ethical patient care.

Dean’S Report: University Of Michigan School Of Dentistry Advancing Dental Education And Oral Health Science Is Our Passion And Mission, Jan Hu Bds, Phd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The Dean of the University of Michigan School of Dentistry, Jan Hu’s annual report to our readers, highlights the school's dedication to dental education and oral health science. The report underscores the school's commitment to maintaining high standards in the face of changing times. Key Highlights:

1. Educational Normalcy: Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the school has returned to a sense of normalcy in educating DDS, dental hygiene, and graduate students. Stringent infection control measures are still in place.
2. Vibrant Research: The school's research endeavors remain strong, with over 200 papers, articles, and reviews published in prestigious academic journals …

Staff Matters: Should You Create A Combined Pto Bank?, Jodi Schafer Sphr, Shrm-Scp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Consider consolidating separate leave banks into a combined Paid Time Off (PTO) system to simplify administration and boost employee flexibility. PTO allows staff to use their leave days for any purpose without providing a reason. While it fosters trust and personal accountability, it may lead to employees saving days for vacations and working while sick. A PTO policy should address availability, employee type, coordination, and communication to encourage PTO utilization, prevent burnout, and enhance work-life balance.

10-Minute Ebd: Does Articaine Compared To Lidocaine Result In A Higher Risk Of Paresthesia?, Ben Balevi Dds, Msc

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This Evidence-Based Dentistry column examines whether articaine, when compared to lidocaine, increases the risk of paresthesia in adults undergoing dental block anesthesia. After conducting a comprehensive literature search, the evidence suggests that 4% articaine may enhance the probability of achieving profound block anesthesia, with a very low risk of paresthesia, comparable to other dental local anesthetics. Considering this evidence in conjunction with the patient's preferences and values is crucial when making clinical decisions.