Dentistry Commons^™

Meet Your New Mda Editor, Michelle C. Dziurgot Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Dr. Michelle C. Dziurgot introduces herself as the new editor-in-chief of the Journal of the Michigan Dental Association. She shares her background, including her dental career, writing experience, and leadership roles. Dr. Dziurgot expresses her commitment to promoting dentistry and engaging with the dental community through the journal. She emphasizes her passion for the field and her willingness to serve the members of the Michigan Dental Association.

President’S Address: Dr. Vince Benivegna, Vince Benivegna Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Dr. Vince Benivegna, the outgoing President of the Michigan Dental Association, addressed the House of Delegates, emphasizing the significant progress in enhancing Adult Dental Medicaid coverage and reimbursement in Michigan. He thanked the dedicated individuals who supported him during his tenure and shared his journey. Dr. Benivegna lauded Michigan's accomplishments in reducing opioid prescribing and highlighted the MDA's role as a model state society in advocacy, leadership, mentorship, continuing education, diversity, equity, and inclusion. He praised Michigan's achievements in improving Adult Dental Medicaid, encouraging Michigan dentists to participate and help address oral health disparities. Dr. Benivegna underscored how this aligns …

N Y State Dent J June-July 2023

The New York State Dental Journal

In the June-July 2023 issue, the reader will find the following feature articles:

• Understanding Persistent Bleeding in Children
• Sinus Tract vs. Fistula: There is a Difference
• What is the Prevalence of Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Condylar Osteoarthritis in an Asymptomatic Oral and Maxillorfacial Surgery Department Population?

This issue includes regular columns with regional news impacting the New York membership including: editorial and perspectives columns, legal, association activities, component news, continuing education opportunities, and classifieds.

The 2023 Mda Annual Session: Good Times, Great Meeting, David Foe Ma

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The 2023 MDA Annual Session was a successful event, with over 2,600 dental professionals attending in downtown Grand Rapids. Highlights included engaging keynote addresses, informative CE courses, a bustling exhibit hall, and various social events. The MDA Foundation's Sparkling Smiles Celebration raised funds to support dental scholarships and improve access to care. The event provided valuable networking opportunities and resources for attendees.

Ada News - 05/08/2023, American Dental Association, Publishing Division

ADA News

Established in 1970 as the official newspaper of the American Dental Association, the ADA News serves practicing dentists and others allied to the dental profession in the U.S. and internationally. It is the No. 1 source of news and information about the many benefits and services the ADA delivers to members daily as well as timely information on scientific, social, political and economic developments affecting dentistry and health care.

J Mich Dent Assoc May 2023

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

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

• A case study on recognizing the oral signs of Acute Lymphatic Leukemia
• A special pull-out section to assist clinicians in identifying and treating common oral lesions
• Advice on personal Wellness: "Finding Calm Amidst Chaos."
• State of Michigan C.E. Requirements for License Renewal of Dentists, Hygienists, and Registered Dental Assistants.
• A 10Minute EBD contrasting clinical success of composite restorations vs. glass ionomers.
• Guest commentary "Pretty Good Dentistry."
• News you need, Editorial, and an Advocacy Spotlight.

Finding Calm Amidst Chaos, Lisa Knowles Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This commentary on mindfulness and wellness provides the practitioner with strategies to achieve peace amidst chaos.

Ada News - 04/10/2023, American Dental Association, Publishing Division

ADA News

Established in 1970 as the official newspaper of the American Dental Association, the ADA News serves practicing dentists and others allied to the dental profession in the U.S. and internationally. It is the No. 1 source of news and information about the many benefits and services the ADA delivers to members daily as well as timely information on scientific, social, political and economic developments affecting dentistry and health care.

What Dentists Do, Chester Gary Dds, Jd

The New York State Dental Journal

Understanding dentists' job description will motivate all payers of oral health services to offer fair compensation.

New Dentist News (April 2023), Ada Committee On The New Dentist

New Dentist News

New Dentist News offers timely information on scientific, social, educational, political and economic developments affecting new dentists. This collection is historical and items may not reflect current standards. For up-to-date information contact the ADA. The New Dentist News was alternately titled ADA Lifeline, 1997-June 2001.

The Elevator Speech, Christopher J. Smiley

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This editorial discusses the effectiveness of crafting an "elevator speech" for concise and impactful communication in various scenarios. Leaders at a previous MDA Board of Trustees orientation were trained to construct brief, efficient presentations of two to five minutes. The process involves targeting the audience's needs, focusing on critical points, and concluding with a call to action. Examples are given for addressing questions on MDA membership benefits, emphasizing volunteer contributions, services, resources, and the value of the MDA Journal. The editorial encourages readers to adopt these strategies for efficient communication in professional and public settings.

J Mich Dent Assoc April 2023

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

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

• A profile of two dentist legislators, Representative Steven Bradley, DDS of Iowa and Representative Jane Gillette, DDS, MPH. who represents Montana, to help readers best understand what that commitment means if they plan to seek elected office.
• An article discussing essential communication strategies to win elections.
• An update on ADA efforts to promote Oral Health Equity
• Profiles of MDA leadership candidates
• A 10Minute EBD contrasting closing diastemas with or without frenectomy with orthodontic treatment.
• Editorial, Advocacy update, News Briefs, News from the MDA Foundation, News from the ADA and …

N Y State Dent J April 2023

The New York State Dental Journal

In the April 2023 issue, the reader will find the following feature articles:

• A Dentist's Role in the Delivery of Culturally Competent Oral Health Care to Transgender Patients
• Oral Health Considerations for Aging Patients Living with HIV/AIDS
• An Osteoma Embedding an Ectopic Wisdom Tooth within the Maxillary Sinus A Rare Occurrence

This issue includes regular columns with regional news impacting the New York membership including: editorial and perspectives columns, legal, association activities, component news, continuing education opportunities, and classifieds.

Running For Political Office: These Dentists Did . . . How About You? Insights From Two Dentist-Legislators, W. Erick Rupprecht Dds, Lynn Aronoff

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The Michigan Dental Association encourages members to seek political office. Why? Having a member dentist hold an elected office improves the profession's visibility and builds relationships with other elected officials and community leaders who can support dentistry's goals. A dentist-legislator becomes a resource with their legislative colleagues when they debate health policy, regulations, and business initiatives. Having member dentists on the inside provides receptive ears when the Association advocates for the profession's needs and priorities.

To give insight into what public service by a dentist looks like, the Journal interviewed two colleagues who have made that commitment, State Representative Steven …

Ada News - 03/06/2023, American Dental Association, Publishing Division

ADA News

Established in 1970 as the official newspaper of the American Dental Association, the ADA News serves practicing dentists and others allied to the dental profession in the U.S. and internationally. It is the No. 1 source of news and information about the many benefits and services the ADA delivers to members daily as well as timely information on scientific, social, political and economic developments affecting dentistry and health care.

Headquarters Report: Membership Outlook Hazy But Optimistic, Karen Burgess Cae

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This MDA Executive Director Report discusses the annual membership snapshot of the ADA, MDA, and component dental societies, specifically focusing on Michigan's experience in 2022. The analysis reveals a decline in active membership and a decrease in market share. A 57% national percentage of active dentists in membership is alarming, as further erosion may impact advocacy efforts and organized dentistry’s ability to voice dentistry’s needs. The article explores the reasons behind this decline, including demographic trends and the changing landscape of dental practice. It emphasizes the importance of adapting to the evolving needs of younger dentists and non-owner practitioners while …

Staff Matters: When Should We Use A Performance Improvement Plan?, Jodi Schafer Sphr, Shrm-Scp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article explores using Performance Improvement Plans (PIPs) to address employee issues. It defines what a PIP is and outlines its primary purpose: employee development and performance improvement. The article provides guidance on when to use a PIP, emphasizing its appropriateness for performance-related deficiencies that coaching hasn't resolved. It also highlights situations where a PIP may not be suitable, such as policy violations or severe misconduct. The key is to choose the right communication tool based on the specific circumstances and the potential for employee improvement.

Will The Government Rip Up Employment Contracts?, Christopher J. Smiley

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This editorial discusses the Federal Trade Commission's proposed rule to eliminate non-compete agreements, tracing their historical origins to the apprentice system in Europe. The author explores dentists' perspectives on this potential change, considering the need for talent acquisition versus workforce preservation. The editorial highlights the FTC's rationale for banning non-compete contracts and their impact on employee wages and innovation. It also addresses issues of boilerplate contract language and excessive leverage in the dental profession. The proposed rule aims to create consistency across states while allowing non-competes in specific cases. Dentist employers are advised to review and revise their agreements in …

Improving Access For Children And Adults With Disabilities Through Enhanced Commercial Benefits, Holli Seabury Edd, Jeff Johnston Dds, Ms

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article explores the critical issue of accessibility to oral healthcare for people with disabilities in the United States. Delta Dental of Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana has taken a step by providing enhanced commercial benefits to children and adults with disabilities. The article delves into the challenges faced by this vulnerable population, including cost barriers and transition issues, and discusses how expanded benefits and coding, along with special dental care provisions, aim to improve access. It emphasizes the importance of proper benefits verification and presents a case study illustrating the utilization of these benefits. The article highlights the need for …

Practice Management: Cpa Vs. Dental Cpa: What’S The Difference?, John Looby Cpa

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article underscores the advantages of working with a specialized dental Certified Public Accountant (CPA) over generalist CPAs or accountants for dental practitioners. A dental CPA offers deeper insights into practice management, tax planning, and financial strategies tailored to the dental industry. Dental CPAs provide valuable guidance on production, insurance, and cost management, helping dentists make informed decisions. They also prove invaluable during critical times, such as during the COVID-19 pandemic, and offer expertise in tax, retirement, and practice transition planning, ensuring optimal financial outcomes for dentists.

J Mich Dent Assoc March 2023

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!

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

• A cover story on canceling provider agreements with dental plans.
• A clinical update on when and how to use Silver Diamine Fluoride to manage carious lesions
• News from Delta Dental on efforts to address access to care for disabled individuals through enhanced commercial dental benefits.
• The value of focused counsel from a …

The Great Abdication, Chester Gary Dds, Jd

The New York State Dental Journal

Healthcare stakeholders abdicate their duty to provide quality general and oral healthcare to all populations when they fail to uptrain members of the general and oral healthcare workforce to meet accredited standards for the services rendered.

Is It Time To Rip Up Your Contract? Navigating Dental Plan Participation, Stephanie Smith

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article explores the importance of dental practice management and the potential benefits of breaking away from insurance company participation agreements. The author, a practice management coach, emphasizes the role of data analysis, effective communication, and patient-centered strategies in achieving practice independence. Key areas of focus include assessing practice performance, understanding insurance reimbursement rates, and enhancing accounts receivable processes. The article provides insights into strategically transitioning to non-participation with insurance plans while preserving patient relationships. It highlights the significance of transparent communication, staff training, and timing when considering such a transition.

Navigating Today's Workforce Challenge, Betsy Bray Rdh, Bs

The New York State Dental Journal

Workforce challenges are nearing a crisis level in all aspects of healthcare. The pandemic has only exacerbated staffing disruptions and obstacles. How will we build a sustainable future for dentistry?

Ada News - 02/06/2023, American Dental Association, Publishing Division

ADA News

Established in 1970 as the official newspaper of the American Dental Association, the ADA News serves practicing dentists and others allied to the dental profession in the U.S. and internationally. It is the No. 1 source of news and information about the many benefits and services the ADA delivers to members daily as well as timely information on scientific, social, political and economic developments affecting dentistry and health care.

Commentary: What Makes Membership Matter, Michael G. Maihofer Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The American Dental Association (ADA) is facing a drastic decline in membership, with market share dropping to 59%. To combat this trend, the ADA focuses on early-career dentists and a strategic forecasting initiative to align with their values. However, there is concern that the language and approach are shifting towards treating members as customers rather than dental professionals. This shift raises questions about the commitment of new dentists to professional associations. The challenge lies in listening to member concerns and delivering values like professional support, ethics, and advocacy to make membership meaningful.

Staff Matters: When Employee Behaviors Create A Toxic Work Culture, Jodi Schafer Sphr, Shrm-Scp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This column addresses the challenge of resolving conflicts between employees with clashing personalities and behaviors. It emphasizes the importance of raising awareness, clarifying behavior expectations, and outlining consequences for inappropriate conduct. If conflicts persist despite efforts to address them, termination may become necessary to preserve a healthy workplace environment.

From The Neck Up, Christopher J. Smiley

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This editorial emphasizes integrating behavioral health into dentistry for comprehensive patient care. It highlights evidence-based approaches showing positive outcomes of behavior change techniques in oral hygiene and smoking cessation. However, implementing behavioral change models in clinical dental care faces challenges, such as reimbursement issues and concerns about disrupting the patient-dentist relationship. The editorial suggests enlisting outside resources and fostering collaboration between oral and mental health professionals to address patients' overall health needs. Policy initiatives are seen as a promising avenue for advancing this integration.

J Mich Dent Assoc February 2023

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!

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

• A feature on the Interfaith Dental Refugee Program of Michigan
• Commentary on what makes membership matter and the ADA marketing shift on the value of membership.
• Complete details on the 2023 MDA Annual Session
• News you need, Editorial, and regular department articles on Dentistry and the Law, Staff Matters, and Advocacy.

Advocacy Spotlight: The Mda Grassroots Program: Advocacy That Works!, Neema Katibai Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The Michigan Dental Association's (MDA) Grassroots Legislative Advocacy Program, launched in 2011, continues to thrive, with active member participation in 2022. Over 145 MDA members and legislator contacts at 23 events showcased the program's effectiveness. Connecting members with their legislators fosters personal connections, reinforces the MDA as a dental resource, and offers a unique local perspective on key issues. With many new legislators taking office in 2023, the grassroots program will remain vital in the MDA's advocacy efforts. The facing page provides a description of the MDA 2023 legislative priorities.