Health Law and Policy Commons^™

Penicillin Allergy Assessment And Medical Referral To Promote Antibiotic Stewardship, Elaine Bailey Pharmd, Mackenzie Connell, Marie Fluent Dds, Erinne Kennedy Dds, Mph, Mmsc

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Antibiotic stewardship is an integral practice for the dental team to ensure a safe dental visit for patients. Now, with clinical practice guidelines and state toolkits, more dentists are aware of and actively practicing antibiotic stewardship. With the application of antibiotic stewardship practices, dentists are identifying the need for additional tools to enhance practice. For example, one need that has been identified is a tool for screening patients for true penicillin allergies. The Penicillin Allergy Assessment Tool (PAAT) is a decision-making tool that can be used chairside to screen patients who report an allergy to penicillin. After screening, dentists can …

The 2025 Michigan State Oral Health Plan, Ellen Sugrue Hyman Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This feature article explores the 2025 Michigan State Oral Health Plan (SOHP), a comprehensive initiative developed by the Michigan Oral Health Coalition (MOHC) and a statewide coalition, including the Michigan Dental Association (MDA). With a focus on enhancing oral health for all Michigan residents, the SOHP prioritizes addressing economic and racial disparities. The plan, guided by three key goals—Increasing Awareness and Education, Dental-Health Integration, and Access and Infrastructure—aims to improve oral health outcomes. The article discusses the plan's development process, key findings highlighting existing disparities, workforce challenges, and the strategic implementation of the SOHP through collaborative efforts and workgroups.

Staff Matters: Is Our Practice Required To Mandate Employee Vaccination For Covid-19?, Jodi Schafer Sphr, Shrm-Scp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This Staff Matters Column addresses the confusion surrounding COVID-19 vaccination mandates for private dental practices. Following the U.S. Supreme Court's decision, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) vaccine mandate was upheld. However, the CMS rule, clarified through FAQs, applies to specific health care facilities accepting Medicare or Medicaid funding and does not include private dental practices. The article navigates the nuances of the CMS rule, emphasizing its impact on certain health care settings rather than private dental practices, offering clarity on vaccination requirements for dental professionals.

10-Minute Ebd: Digital Scans Or Conventional Impressions: Which Results In Better Crowns?, Laura Tsu Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This 10-Minute EBD column critically evaluates the outcomes of digital scans versus conventional impressions in fabricating single-unit crowns, focusing on factors such as marginal and internal fit. Employing a PICO question and a literature search pathway via PubMed, the analysis includes systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Findings suggest that crowns from digital scans generally exhibit clinically acceptable marginal and internal fit, often outperforming conventional impressions. However, heterogeneity in study samples and methodologies contributes to varied results. While digital scans meet the standard of care, ongoing research is essential for a comprehensive understanding of the evolving landscape in digital prosthodontics.

Infection Prevention In Dentistry: Reaching Our “New Normal”, Karen K. Daw Mba, Cecm, Marie T. Fluent Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article addresses the evolving landscape of infection prevention in dentistry amid the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the dynamic nature of guidance and standards. It explores historical perspectives, including the transition from "wet finger dentistry" to universal precautions and standard precautions. The focus then shifts to the regulatory considerations and the relevance of transmission-based precautions in the context of COVID-19. The Hierarchy of Controls is discussed, encompassing elimination, substitution, engineering controls, administrative control, and personal protective equipment. Respiratory hygiene, personal protective equipment, and infection prevention practices are compared between the pre-COVID era and the current landscape, emphasizing the importance of adapting …

Staff Matters: Resolving Conflict Between Employees, Jodi Schafer Sphr, Shrm-Scp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This Staff Matters column addresses workplace conflict arising from an employee's abrasive communication style, affecting collaboration and patient interactions. Acknowledging conflict as normal, the advice emphasizes addressing it promptly. Steps include talking to those involved, identifying themes causing conflict, and meeting with individual employees to discuss concerns, impact, and potential solutions. Considering external stress factors, the focus is on open, respectful, and confidential resolution. Building a strong practice culture is highlighted for enhanced employee and patient satisfaction.

10-Minute Ebd: Is Fluoride Varnish Safe And Effective?, Sara Toema Bds, Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This 10-Minute EBD column addresses a common clinical scenario where a parent questions the safety and efficacy of fluoride varnish for preventing dental decay in a pediatric patient. Conducting a 10-minute Evidence-Based Dentistry (EBD) literature search, the author explores the available evidence, pathways, and resources. The search includes Google, systematic reviews from Cochrane Library and Epistemonikos, and the American Dental Association (ADA) Center for Evidence-Based Dentistry database. The results confirm the safety and efficacy of 2.26% fluoride varnish, preventing 43% of caries in permanent teeth and 37% in primary teeth. The moderate-level evidence supports recommending fluoride varnish application, aligning with …

Commentary: The Role Of The Mda’S Committee On Diversity, Equity, And Inclusion, Mehul Patel Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This Commentary emphasizes the Michigan Dental Association's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, aligning with its 2021-25 strategic plan. The Committee on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is tasked with monitoring demographic trends, enhancing inclusion, recommending equity actions, and improving member value for diverse dentists. Rejecting perceptions of tokenism, the committee underscores the importance of embracing diversity beyond race, including various dimensions like age, gender identity, and practice setting. Encouraging members to actively contribute, the commentary emphasizes the role of diversity in strengthening the MDA and advancing oral healthcare.

Please Don’T Shoot The Messenger, Christopher J. Smiley Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This editorial emphasizes the importance of discerning reliable information amid the influx of COVID-19-related studies and guidelines. Drawing parallels with the ancient Greek sentiment from Sophocles' play Antigone, JMDA Editor Dr. Chris Smiley advocates for an open-minded approach to trustworthy sources, citing the World Health Organization's seven steps for evaluation. The Michigan Dental Association is highlighted as a reliable resource for synthesizing evolving information for clinicians. Despite pandemic-induced frustrations, the editorial urges practitioners to navigate changes resiliently, recognizing the dynamic nature of public health guidance.

Advocacy Spotlight: Ada Lobbyist Conference Highlights Critical Advocacy Issues, Neema Katibai Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The ADA Lobbyist Conference highlighted crucial issues in dentistry, including Medicare reform, teledentistry, workforce concerns, and insurance challenges. State dental associations collaborated on building advocacy partnerships and shared successful grassroots engagement strategies. Medicare reform discussions focused on the ADA's opposition to Plan B inclusion and the impact of constituent outreach. State associations addressed Medicaid reform, emphasizing personal stories to convey the need for change. Teledentistry legislation and insurance company relationships were also key topics. The insights gained will shape the MDA's advocacy strategy for 2022.

Dentistry And The Law: Can I Be Reported To The Data Bank In Connection With A Billing Dispute?, Dan Schulte Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This Dentistry and the Law column addresses a dentist's concern about being reported to the National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB) during a billing dispute. The dentist questions the validity of such a report, considering no issues with treatment quality are raised. The response emphasizes that adverse actions based solely on billing practices may not be reportable to the NPDB. Additionally, it clarifies that a dental plan administrator may not be eligible to make a Data Bank report, offering guidance on informing the plan about rights and potential contestation.

Ada Trustee Report: Working To Make Each Member Feel Welcome, Michele Tulak-Gorecki Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

ADA 9th District Trustee Dr. Michele Tulak-Gorecki shares insights from the ADA Board Retreat, emphasizing the importance of communication, board culture, and fostering a welcoming environment for all members. Dr. Cesar Sabates, the new ADA president, encourages a spirit of love, respect, and cooperation, envisioning the ADA as a supportive family. The column highlights the significance of making every member feel truly welcome and part of something special. ADA Executive Director Dr. Ray Cohlmia's vision focuses on customer focus, global presence, innovation, sustainability, and nimbleness, with upcoming innovative changes in ADA operations.

Headquarters Report: A Look Back, A Step Forward, Karen Burgess Cae

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

In her Headquarters Report, MDA Executive Director Karen Burgess reflects on the dental landscape entering the third year of the COVID-19 pandemic, acknowledging the "new normal" with increased demand for services, staff shortages, and supply chain challenges. Despite uncertainties, the Michigan Dental Association (MDA) maintained membership numbers better than expected, with a slight decrease in market share. The report emphasizes the importance of member value, highlighted by a favorable Net Promoter Score (NPS) and positive feedback on MDA benefits. It also discusses efforts in diversity, equity, and inclusion, along with successful advocacy initiatives influencing oral health in Michigan.

J Mich Dent Assoc February 2022

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Every month, The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association brings news, information, and features about Michigan dentistry to our state's oral health community and the MDA’s 6,200+ members across the state. No publication reaches more Michigan dentists!

Eating Disorders In Adolescents: Facts And Recommendations For The Oral Health Care Team, Catherine A. Miller Md, James R. Boynton Dds, Ms, Terrill Bravender Md, Mph

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Eating disorders typically begin during the adolescent years. These disorders are a spectrum of thoughts and behaviors related to food, weight and exercise that lead to significant psychological and physical morbidity. Medical complications of eating disorders are common and can be life-threatening. Dental providers can play an important role in care by recognizing oral signs and symptoms associated with eating disorders, giving advice on mitigating these issues, and helping patients and families connect with appropriate care. In this article, we provide key information about eating disorders, the complications including oral health issues, and advice for dental providers regarding care and …

10-Minute Ebd: Factors Impacting Gingival Margin Position Following Esthetic Crown Lengthening, I-Ting (David) Lee

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The esthetic crown lengthening procedure aims to address gingival concerns and achieve harmonious crown proportions. This article explores factors influencing gingival margin position post-surgical intervention, focusing on patients with excessive gingival display. The PICO question investigates gingival changes six months post-surgery. A comprehensive literature search using keywords such as "esthetic crown lengthening" and "gummy smile" identifies relevant articles. Results indicate varied outcomes, emphasizing the importance of individualized approaches. Notably, factors like flap margin suture placement impact tissue rebound. This study underscores the complexity of esthetic crown lengthening, emphasizing the need for tailored strategies to ensure optimal outcomes.

J Mich Dent Assoc January 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 January 2022 issue, the reader will find the following original content:

• A cover feature, “Eating Disorders in Adolescents: Facts and Recommendations for the Oral Health Team”
• An introduction to the Pediatric Health Series, “Psychosocial Factors of COVID-19 Impact Oral Health”
• A DEI Feature, “Inclusion of the Mobility Impaired in Our Community”
• A 10-Minute EBD, “Factors Impacting Gingival Margin Position Following Esthetic Crown Lengthening”
• News you need, an …

Thanks For Noticing!, Christopher J. Smiley Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The 2021 Member Value Survey highlighted the Journal of the Michigan Dental Association (MDA) as the organization's top-rated service, reinforcing its importance as the primary internal marketing tool. The Editorial emphasizes the collaborative efforts involved in maintaining the Journal's quality, including the Editorial Advisory Board, peer-review process, and the dedicated MDA team. Despite success, the Editorial calls for continued improvement, announcing plans to restructure the Editorial Advisory Board and invites members to contribute and shape the Journal's future, ensuring its ongoing value for readers.

Dentistry And The Law: Network Leasing Arrangements And Their Effect On Fees, Dan Schulte Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Dentists entering network leasing arrangements often face uncertainty about fees due to the lack of transparent fee schedules. While leasing companies aim to connect dentists with insurers and plans, the absence of clear payment information poses challenges. Dentists may receive varying amounts for the same services, impacting financial predictability. The article emphasizes the importance of understanding contract terms, obtaining fee schedules, and monitoring patient volume to assess the arrangement's overall benefit.

Staff Matters: Evaluating Performance During Covid-19 And Staffing Shortages, Jodi Schafer Sphr, Shrm-Scp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Amidst COVID-19 and staffing shortages, evaluating employee performance requires a nuanced approach. Recognizing the impact of pandemic stress, leaders must balance feedback with understanding. Acknowledge the challenges, celebrate achievements, and discuss growth areas collaboratively. Adjust expectations, focusing on essential issues and fostering a positive, forward-facing environment. Tailor evaluations to individual contributions, addressing concerns constructively. Prioritize one-on-one conversations to convey appreciation and align goals, ensuring a supportive workplace.

Psychosocial Factors Of Covid-19 Impact Oral Health, Neeru Ramaswami Bds, Ms, Mph

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The impact of psychosocial factors on oral health during the COVID-19 pandemic necessitates an interdisciplinary approach to patient care. This article, part of National Children’s Dental Health Month, focuses on adolescent oral health and eating disorders, authored by experts from the University of Michigan. With a dramatic increase in eating disorders among Michigan adolescents during the pandemic, especially affecting transgender and diverse youth, identifying such issues is crucial. General dentists, in an ideal position for interaction, can play a vital role in addressing these challenges, emphasizing the need for continued education and collaboration.

Inclusion Of The Mobility Impaired In Our Community: Ask First!, Jeffrey M. Heinz Dds, Msd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This DEI Series feature article provides a unique perspective on the inclusion of individuals with physical disabilities, focusing on mobility impairment, in the dental profession and community. The author, a paraplegic orthodontist, shares personal experiences and challenges, shedding light on the importance of considering physical disabilities in dental offices. Navigational difficulties in compliant yet wheelchair-unfriendly spaces are discussed, urging practitioners to have contingency plans. The article emphasizes the significance of etiquette in assisting individuals with disabilities, encouraging respectful communication and asking before offering help. Practical insights on dental chair usage and transfer assistance are provided, promoting a more inclusive environment …

J Mich Dent Assoc December 2021

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Every month, The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association brings news, information, and features about Michigan dentistry 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:

• Two cover stories presenting perspectives from both ends of the practice life continuum: “Starting Your Practice Life” and “Preparing for Retirement”.
• A feature article, “What Happened in Vegas Became ADA Policy”.
• A feature article, “An Oversight Corrected: 2020 MDA Life Members Recognized”.
• The 2021 Author/Title Index to the Journal of the Michigan Dental Association. …

J Mich Dent Assoc November 2021

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Every month, The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association brings news, information, and features about Michigan dentistry 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:

• Cover stories with a “Focus on Advocacy: Helping Dentistry Succeed”, including “MDA Dental PAC: What It Is and Why It Matters “, “2021 Advocacy Success — and More to Come “, and “Dental Programs Maintained in 2021-22 State Budget”.
• A feature article on “The Anishinaabe Dental Outreach Program”.
• A feature article, “How Your Website and …

J Mich Dent Assoc October 2021

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Every month, The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association brings news, information, and features about Michigan dentistry 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, “Welcoming Colleagues from Different Practice Models”.
• A feature article from the Journal’s DEI series, “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Perspectives from an LGBTQ Dentist”.
• A feature article, “Congratulations, 2021 MDA Life Members!”.
• News you need, Editorial and regular department articles on MDA Foundation activities, Dentistry and the Law, Staff Matters, and component news. …

J Mich Dent Assoc September 2021

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Every month, The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association brings news, information, and features about Michigan dentistry 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 with “Reports from the Dental School Deans”, Dr. Mert Aksu and Dr. Laurie McCauley.
• A feature article from the Journal’s DEI series, “Building a Culturally Competent Practice”.
• A feature article, “Disability Insurance: 10 Things You Need to Know”.
• News you need, Editorial and regular department articles on MDA Foundation activities, Dentistry and …

J Mich Dent Assoc August 2021

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Every month, The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association brings news, information, and features about Michigan dentistry 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 “Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Dentistry: Understanding the MDA’s Perspective”.
• A feature article, “Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Dentistry: Its Impact on Oral Health — You Can Make a Difference!”.
• A feature article from the Journal’s DEI series, “Welcoming Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion with Students Considering Careers in Dentistry”.
• A feature clinical article …

J Mich Dent Assoc July 2021

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Every month, The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association brings news, information, and features about Michigan dentistry 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 “Measuring Outcomes to Improve the Quality of Clinical Care”.
• A feature article, “Is Your Office Winning or Losing the Race? You Won’t Know Without Measurement”.
• The feature article, “The DQA and Quality Measurement in Dental Programs and Plans”.
• News you need, Editorial and regular department articles on MDA Foundation activities, Dentistry …

J Mich Dent Assoc June 2021

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Every month, The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association brings news, information, and features about Michigan dentistry 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 “Team-Based Treatment of Oral Cancer: The U-M Experience”.
• A feature article, “Dental Management of the Head and Neck Cancer Patient Treated with Radiation Therapy: Update 2021”.
• A feature article on “Understanding Cyber Threats and the Risk they Pose to Your Practice”.
• "A Train-the-Trainer Education Model and Rural Dental Opioid Prescribing Outcomes”, a …

J Mich Dent Assoc May 2021

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Every month, The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association brings news, information, and features about Michigan dentistry 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 “3D Printing in Dentistry: Concepts, Technologies, and Applications”.
• An interview with new MDA President Dr. Mike Maihofer.
• The MDA award-winners for 2021.
• A feature article, “Things to Know about the New e-Prescribing Law”.
• News you need, Editorial and regular department articles on MDA Foundation activities, Dentistry and the Law, Staff Matters, and …