Dentistry Commons^™

A Qualitative Assessment Of The Role Of Dental Specialists In The United States Opioid Epidemic: Dental School Faculty And Postdoctoral Trainee Perspectives, Rochisha Singh Marwaha D.D.S., M.P.H., Ficd, Gunnar Hasselgren D.D.S., Ph.D., Sarah Douglas-Broten D.M.D., M.P.H., Sidney B. Eisig D.D.S., Kavita P. Ahluwalia D.D.S., M.P.H.

The New York State Dental Journal

This research used qualitative methods to compare the prescription opioid-related knowledge, opinions and behaviors of oral surgery (OS) and endodontics (E) faculty and postdoctoral trainees. Semi-structured interview guides were used to conduct 10 key-informant interviews with faculty and focus group discussions with 18 postdoctoral trainees. Interviews and focus group discussions were recorded, transcribed and coded for thematic content. E faculty reported infrequent use of opioids for dental pain management, while OS faculty frequently prescribed opioids. Conversely, E faculty were more likely to use prescription drug monitoring programs to track patients’ potential for addiction compared to OS. In conclusion, the frequency …

Is Ageism A Problem In Dentistry? It Would Appear That No One Or No Segment Of Society Is Immune From Acting Questionably—And, Possibly, Illegally—Toward Seniors., Stuart Segelnick Dds, Ms

The New York State Dental Journal

While attending local, stat and national dental meetings through the years, and even the most recent NYSDA House of Delegates meeting, I am repeatedly surprised to hear comments from senior society officers decrying the “old men in the room” and declaring they have had “enough of the old whitehaired men” dominating the higher echelons of our organization. The younger dentists listening nod their heads in approval. What these well-meaning, experienced dentists were trying to highlight was the need to have younger and more diverse dentists involved in organized dentistry.

Attitudes Of New York State Pediatric Dentists Toward Treating Hasidic Patients, Gideon Turk Dmd, Michelle Goldstein Dmd

The New York State Dental Journal

Purpose: This survey investigated variations in practices among pediatric dentists and dental residents in New York State concerning the treatment of Hasidic, Haredi or Ultra-Orthodox Jewish (HHUOJ) patients.

Methods and Results: The 16-question survey was distributed to 641 AAPD pediatric dentists and residents via email. Results were analyzed across six variables using the Mann-Whitney U Test. Statistically significant differences were observed in the responses to 14 of 16 questions.

Conclusion: The study revealed statistically significant variations in various aspects related to the treatment of HHUOJ patients, suggesting the need for further education among providers in New York State.

Revolutionizing Dental Operatories: How Do We Do More Using Less?, Michael Zidile D.D.S., Brian Choi D.D.S.

The New York State Dental Journal

The authors present a transformative approach to modernizing dental operatories as part of their practice’s recent expansion. Aimed at enhancing efficiency and patient-centered care, the project reimagines traditional operatory design by eliminating ergonomic and hygienic barriers, notably, the use of keyboards and mice. Key innovations include the implementation of touchscreen PC displays, high-power PCs with graphics cards, magnetic USB cables for rapid data transfer, omnidirectional microphones linked to AI scribes and wireless intraoral scanning. The design prioritizes a standardized, clutter-free layout across eight operatories, utilizing A-Dec Inspire Series cabinets for ergonomic supply management. By removing countertops and pullout trays, the …

The New Professional: Evaluating A Practice Purchase: Guidance For The First-Time Buyer, Amrita Patel Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This guidance for first-time dental practice buyers stresses that evaluating a practice involves more than just the price tag, encompassing financials, people, culture, and potential growth. Buyers must analyze at least three years of financial statements, paying close attention to collection trends, accounts receivable, overhead, net income, and the mix of insurance plans. Patient loyalty is critical; buyers must assess the number of "active" patients (seen in the last 18–24 months) and recognize that attrition may occur if loyalty was tied strongly to the selling doctor. Inheriting experienced, welcoming staff and a positive office culture is crucial for success. Practical …

What Doesn’T Kill You, Makes You Stronger, Michelle C. Dziurgot

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The editorial describes the significant damage caused to a dental office in August 2025 by an "all-out power surge" resulting from a direct lightning strike, which fried equipment including dental chairs, computers, and HVAC. This forced the practice to close and reschedule patients. The experience highlighted the critical importance of having property and business interruption insurance through MDA Insurance to cover physical damages and lost scheduled procedures. Dentists are advised to install surge protectors at their fuse boxes, review their policies, document all damage with photos and receipts, and advocate aggressively for timely claim payments to ensure the practice is …

J Mich Dent Assoc November 2025

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Each month, the Journal of the Michigan Dental Association delivers news, information, and features about Michigan dentistry to our state's oral health community and the MDA's 6,200+ members. It remains the main publication reaching Michigan dentists and is available worldwide through ADA Commons.

The November 2025 (Volume 107, No. 11) issue of the Journal is published in both hard copy and with a digital-only format to provide updates and insights for Michigan's oral health community and MDA members. Print editions will resume in November.

The November issue focuses on membership along with a reprinted clinical article on the Oral Manifestations …

An Update On Non-Cigarette Nicotine-Containing Products And The Periodontal Patient, Brendan Keeney D.D.S., Ryan Schure Dds, Msc, Frcd

The New York State Dental Journal

The adverse general and oral health effects from traditional cigarette smoking are supported by decades of research. However, the use of cigarettes in the United States is on the decline, and current research and literature is relatively lacking with respect to novel nicotine consumption methods. Given the increasing and significant use of non-cigarette nicotine-containing products, such as electronic cigarettes, oral nicotine pouches and hookah pipes, attention from oral healthcare providers is warranted. An understanding of the potential negative periodontal outcomes related to these newer nicotine delivery systems is crucial to properly educating and treating patients today.

N Y State Dent J November 2025

The New York State Dental Journal

In the November 2025 issue, the reader will find the following feature articles:

• "Attitudes of New York State Pediatric Dentists Toward Treating Hasidic Patients"
• "A Qualitative Assessment of the Role of Dental Specialists in U.S. Opioid Epidemic"
• "Revolutionizing Dental Operatories"
• "An Update on Non-Cigarette Nicotine-Containing Products and the Periodontal Patient"

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

Arctic Barnabas Ministries: Another Giving Tradition

West Michigan District Dental Society Bulletin

Each Fall, a team of dedicated dental professionals travel from their West Michigan practices to the heart of Alaska to provide much-needed dental care to missionary families who serve in some of the state’s most remote regions. In this interview Dr. Devin Norman discusses the group's mission, the challenges they face, and the stories that have stayed with them.

Better To Give Than To Receive

West Michigan District Dental Society Bulletin

In this article Dr. Sarah Bouwkamp shares her experience joining a University of Michigan dental mission trip to Guatemala, serving patients in need and rediscovering the deeper purpose of dentistry.

Clinical Corner: Pearls From Local Dentists

West Michigan District Dental Society Bulletin

"Clinical Corner" is a section of the WMDDS Bulletin where local dentists share clinical pearls for fellow practitioners.

The Caroline Grace Medema Memorial Fund

West Michigan District Dental Society Bulletin

In this heartfelt letter from Brent and Lorene Medema, the family shares their story and reaction to the decision by the WMDDS Board of Directors to honor their late daughter through the Caroline Grace Medema Memorial Fund. The fund will provide financial support for pregnant women and children in need of dental care.

Wmdds Bulletin Fall 2025

West Michigan District Dental Society Bulletin

In the Fall 2025 issue, the reader will find the following feature articles:

• The Carolina Grace Medema Memorial Fund
• West Michigan Members in Missions: “Better to Give Than to Receive" and "Arctic Barnabas Ministries"
• Pearls from Local Dentists

Also included are your monthly tripartite update, news from West Michigan counties, the President's Message and Editor's Letter.

Va Dent J October 2025

Virginia Dental Journal

This issue introduces Dr. Marlon Goad as the new VDA President, detailing his journey, goals, and vision for addressing workforce shortages, reimbursement challenges, and increasing membership among young dentists. It also features the opening of the Dr. Roger Wood Special Care Clinic at VCU School of Dentistry, aimed at providing specialized care for adults with disabilities and training future oral health professionals.

The journal includes updates on legislative advocacy, such as the VDA PAC's fundraising progress and the 20th anniversary of Virginia’s Medicaid Dental Program. It explores the integration of artificial intelligence into dental practices, emphasizing accessible tools for patient …

Awards & Recognition

Virginia Dental Journal

No abstract provided.

Through The Looking Glass, Sarah Glass

Virginia Dental Journal

This document explores three unique oral pathology cases presented by Dr. Sarah Glass and Jared Bergman, a dental student. Diagnoses include candidiasis, peripheral giant cell granuloma, and osteoma associated with Gardner’s syndrome. Each case highlights clinical presentations, diagnostic methods, and management strategies, emphasizing the importance of medical history and histopathological analysis.

Vcu School Of Dentistry Opens Dr. Roger Wood Special Care Clinic, Olivia Trani

Virginia Dental Journal

The VCU School of Dentistry inaugurated the Dr. Roger Wood Special Care Clinic to provide accessible dental care for adults with disabilities and train future oral health professionals. Equipped with adaptive features, the clinic aims to address barriers to care, serve 500 patients annually, and expand its capacity in a planned new building.

Making A Life-Changing Difference: Volunteering With Missions Of Mercy In Wise, Charlene Rothkopt

Virginia Dental Journal

The 2025 Wise Missions of Mercy (MOM) event provided life-changing dental care to underserved patients, including a 14-year-old boy with severe dental decay. Through the dedication of volunteer dentists, his smile was restored, boosting his confidence. Since 2000, MOM events have delivered over $23 million in donated care, transforming countless lives.

You Have Access To Savings On Dental Supplies! New Vda Member Perks Partnership With Method, Karen Wood

Virginia Dental Journal

VDA Member Perks has partnered with Method to offer Virginia dental practices access to advanced procurement and inventory management software. Method streamlines supply ordering, automates inventory tracking, and reduces costs by up to 30-40%. Members benefit from discounted pricing on over 900,000 products, enhancing efficiency and supporting patient-focused care.

The Battle Of Fluoride Vs. America, Gary Thomas Dmd

Virginia Dental Journal

The article discusses the controversy surrounding fluoride in community water systems, highlighting its proven benefits in reducing tooth decay and minimal risks at recommended levels. Despite being a top public health achievement, fluoride removal is debated due to concerns about neurotoxicity and fluorosis. The ADA advocates for maintaining fluoridation to promote public health and equity.

Virginia Board Of Dentistry Meeting Notes September 12, 2025, Ursula Klostermyer Dds, Phd

Virginia Dental Journal

The document contains meeting notes from the Virginia Board of Dentistry, detailing discussions on board member introductions, regulatory updates, disciplinary reports, and upcoming conferences related to dental practices.

The Dental Oenophile, Zaneta Hamlin Dds

Virginia Dental Journal

Wine recommendation.

The Importance Of Internal Communications In A Dental Office, Michaela Mishoe

Virginia Dental Journal

Strong internal communication is vital for a dental office’s success, impacting efficiency, employee satisfaction, and patient experience. Strategies include defining roles, creating clear procedures, holding daily and regular team meetings, leveraging technology, and reinforcing office culture. Prioritizing communication fosters teamwork, reduces stress, and ensures consistent, high-quality patient care.

From Chairside To Boardroom: Dr. Frank Iuorno Reflects On His First Year At Delta Dental Of Virginia, Chris Pyle

Virginia Dental Journal

Dr. Frank Iuorno reflects on his first year on the Delta Dental of Virginia Board, emphasizing patient care, provider relations, and simplifying insurance communication. He highlights challenges like competitive pressures and reimbursement models while advocating collaboration between insurers and dentists. Dr. Iuorno aims to shape dentistry’s future through practice and policy alignment.

Vda Academy Graduates Second Class Of Certified Dental Office Professionals Announces New Affiliate Membership Category For 2026, Elise Rupinski

Virginia Dental Journal

The VDA Academy celebrated the graduation of its second cohort of Certified Dental Office Professionals at the Virginia Dental Showcase. Participants completed a year-long program featuring in-person courses and webinars on topics like medical billing and employee retention. Starting in 2026, the program transitions to a virtual format under the new Affiliate Membership category.

2025 Virginia Dental Showcase Recap, Megan Wyman

Virginia Dental Journal

No abstract provided.

The Fulcrum Podcast, Shannon Jacobs

Virginia Dental Journal

This document summarizes episodes of "The Fulcrum Podcast," focusing on dental malpractice, marketing strategies, and the evolution of Medicaid dental services in Virginia.

• Episode 10 features Dr. Al Rizkalla discussing dental malpractice, emphasizing informed consent, documentation, patient communication, and the importance of ethical care. He highlights common claims against dentists and the value of hiring trained staff and utilizing malpractice insurance resources for risk management.

• Episode 12 includes marketing experts Keith Washington and Shannon Perry from ProSites, who discuss enhancing dental practice marketing without overburdening teams. Key topics include the evolution of dental marketing, branding, digital marketing strategies, and the …

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Remembering Dennis P. Gallagher, Laura Givens

Virginia Dental Journal

Dennis P. Gallagher, a dedicated advocate for dentistry, served the Virginia Dental Association (VDA) for nearly two decades. His expertise, commitment, and mentorship shaped significant legislative victories and inspired colleagues. Remembered for his integrity and personal touch, Denny’s legacy continues to influence the VDA’s advocacy efforts and the dental profession.

Virginia’S Medicaid Dental Program Celebrates 20 Years, Laura Givens

Virginia Dental Journal

Virginia’s Cardinal Care Smiles Dental Program celebrated its 20th anniversary, highlighting its evolution from pediatric care to comprehensive dental benefits for adults and pregnant members. Key contributors, including Dr. Terry Dickinson and Mr. Patrick Finnerty, were honored. The program’s success relies on advocacy, provider participation, fee adjustments, and patient education initiatives.