Dentistry Commons^™

Medical Billing For Dentists: Integrating A Different Tool To Boost Case Acceptance, Tontra Lowe Dds

Virginia Dental Journal

Medical billing for dentists is a powerful tool to boost case acceptance and make comprehensive care more affordable by accessing medical insurance benefits for oral treatments. Proper training and patient education about the oral-systemic link are essential for successful implementation, enabling practices to improve workflows, elevate patient care, and enhance overall health outcomes.

What We Learned: Key Takeaways From Delta Dental And Vda Discussions, Chris Pyle

Virginia Dental Journal

Delta Dental of Virginia collaborated with the Virginia Dental Association to address dentist grievances, leading to policy updates, improved processes, and enhanced support tools. Key changes include extended predetermination validity, revised claims rules, and better coverage for specific treatments. Feedback from dentists continues to shape improvements, supported by the VDA's Dental Insurance Grievance Tracker.

When “Just Sign Here” Is Too Good To Be True!, W. Scott Johnson Esquire

Virginia Dental Journal

Dentists are often pressured into purchasing expensive technology at conferences, with contracts governed by out-of-state laws and high-interest rates. These agreements may include personal guarantees, teaser rates, and restrictions on prepayment, leading to financial risks and potential legal consequences. Dentists are advised to carefully review terms and seek professional counsel before committing.

Tune In: Podcast Industry Continues To Grow, Michaela Mishoe

Virginia Dental Journal

The podcast industry continues to grow, offering diverse content for education and engagement. Health-related podcasts are particularly popular, with platforms like Spotify reporting significant increases in streams. The Virginia Dental Association launched The Fulcrum Podcast in 2025, addressing key dental topics and providing tips for being a successful podcast guest. Additionally, dental practice transitions and sales are highlighted, showcasing opportunities across Virginia and beyond.

Dental Detective Series - Word Search, Zaneta Hamlin Dds

Virginia Dental Journal

No abstract provided.

Through The Looking Glass, Sarah Glass

Virginia Dental Journal

The document discusses three oral pathology cases presented by a dental student, focusing on diagnoses of lateral periodontal cyst (LPC), odontogenic keratocyst (OKC), and unicystic ameloblastoma (UAM). It provides clinical, radiographic, and histopathological features, along with treatment options and recurrence rates for each condition.

Do Orthodontists And Patients Prefer Different Linguistic Resources To Overcome Language Barriers In The Clinical Setting?, Phuong Tran Dds, Bhavna Shroff Dds, M.Dent.Sc, Caroline K. Carrico Ph.D, Steven J. Lindauer Dmd

Virginia Dental Journal

Introduction: This study examines communication methods used by patients and clinicians to overcome language barriers in dental settings, aiming to determine the most preferred and beneficial resource.

Methods: Surveys were distributed to a randomized sample of orthodontists in the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) and Spanish-speaking limited English proficient (LEP) patients in Central Virginia. Questions assessed linguistic resources and their impact on visit perception, decision-making, doctor patient relationships, compliance, and satisfaction.

Results: Among 31 providers and 64 patients, bilingual staff members and friends/family members were the most utilized resources. However, both groups selected bilingual staff as the most preferred resource …

Virginia Dentists And Dental Students Unite, Laura Givens

Virginia Dental Journal

Over 1,200 dentists and dental students, including representatives from Virginia, attended the eighth annual ADA Lobby Day in Washington, DC, to advocate for legislative priorities such as fair provider contracts, student loan reform, and community water fluoridation. Virginia's delegation was uniquely featured by ADA News, highlighting their dedication to dentistry and patient care.

Vda Pac Update, Laura Givens

Virginia Dental Journal

The VDA PAC update highlights legislative successes for dentistry in 2025, including expedited licensure pathways, repealing sunset provisions for foreign dental program graduates, and transparency in health insurance payment methods. Contributions are encouraged to meet the PAC's funding goals. Past legislative achievements include advancements in dental insurance transparency, teledentistry, Medicaid reimbursement rates, and workforce mobility.

The Fulcrum Podcast - New Episodes, Shannon Jacobs

Virginia Dental Journal

The Fulcrum Podcast explores diverse topics in dentistry, including practice transitions, dental education, legal considerations for patient reviews, and mental health challenges like burnout. Episodes feature expert insights on dental practice ownership, workforce development, social media reviews, and strategies for managing stress and fostering supportive office cultures.

2025 Virginia Dental Showcase - Event Details

Virginia Dental Journal

The 2025 Virginia Dental Showcase will take place on September 26-27, 2025, at Hilton Norfolk The Main in Norfolk, VA. This premier event for dental professionals features dynamic speakers, hands-on workshops, CE courses, an exhibit hall, networking opportunities, and receptions. Registration fees vary by attendee type, with early bird discounts available until July 31. The event includes access to CE courses, receptions, coffee breaks, boxed lunches, and a Membership Party. Parking and transportation options are provided, including on-site parking, nearby garages, and public transit. Exhibitors and sponsors will showcase the latest dental products and services.

Dental Ai Roundup, Paul Supan Dds

Virginia Dental Journal

The Virginia Dental Association (VDA) has taken a proactive stance on the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in dentistry, emphasizing ethical use, patient privacy, and the importance of licensed dentists maintaining accountability for clinical decisions. The newly formed Artificial Intelligence Resource Committee (AIRC) aims to provide updates on AI developments and address challenges such as corporate influence, insurance misuse, and unethical practices. The Dental-AI Roundup column will serve as a platform to inform the dental community about AI advancements and emerging threats to traditional private practice dentistry.

The Drill, July 2025, Ryan Dunn

Virginia Dental Journal

In the inaugural episode of The Drill, Ryan Dunn, CEO of the Virginia Dental Association (VDA), provides a concise update on the latest activities and initiatives. The episode covers three key areas from the VDA's strategic plan: powerful advocacy, professional development, and practice success. Dunn discusses the workforce challenges, including a shortage of dental hygienists, and highlights efforts such as the new Richmond hygiene school opening in 2026. Other topics include the introduction of an affiliate membership program for dental office staff and the D.I.G. Tracker for monitoring dental insurance grievances. Listeners are encouraged to stay informed and share the …

Focused Leadership, Transparent Communication, A Stronger Future Together, James Mercer Dds

Virginia Dental Journal

The ADA is undergoing significant changes under Interim Executive Director Dr. Elizabeth Shapiro, focusing on leadership transition, transparency, financial sustainability, and operational improvements. Key initiatives include the implementation of a new Association Management Software (AMS), financial recovery measures, and the decision to sunset SmileCon as the annual meeting after 2025. The ADA is committed to enhancing communication, stabilizing operations, and exploring new meeting models to better serve its members.

Cleanings And Conundrums, Sarah Friend Dds

Virginia Dental Journal

The document highlights the challenges faced by an associate dentist in a poorly managed dental practice, including workforce shortages, unprofessional behavior, and lack of support from management. It emphasizes the importance of proactive engagement in solving systemic issues within dentistry and introduces the SafeHaven program as a resource for addressing burnout and mental health concerns among healthcare professionals.

No Off-Season For The Vda, Justin Norbo Dds

Virginia Dental Journal

Dr. Justin Norbo, President of the Virginia Dental Association (VDA), reflects on his year of leadership, emphasizing the importance of member engagement and the unified strength of the tripartite structure (ADA, VDA, and component societies). He likens the profession to a family unit, urging members to stay involved to protect and advance dentistry. He highlights his visits to various component societies and expresses gratitude for the opportunity to serve, encouraging continued collaboration and participation.

Awards And Recognition

Virginia Dental Journal

No abstract provided.

School Of Dentistry Researcher Finds Passion In The Lab And On Foot, Garrison Higgins, Jacob Dougall

Virginia Dental Journal

The article highlights the passion and experiences of Janina Lewis, a researcher at VCU School of Dentistry, who balances her professional achievements with a love for running and fitness.

She Put A Smile In Your Heart, Richard F. Roadcap Dds

Virginia Dental Journal

The article is honoring Sister Bernadette Kenny, highlighting her contributions to healthcare and community service, particularly in dental care and maternal health.

This Is The Face Of A Survivor, Tara Quinn

Virginia Dental Journal

The article highlights the impact of the Virginia Dental Association Foundation's Donated Dental Services program, showcasing the transformative dental care provided to low-income individuals, particularly through the story of a cancer survivor named Pamela.

2025 Virginia Dental Showcase

Virginia Dental Journal

No abstract provided.

Smart Communication Strategies Every Practice Needs To Know, Ashli Klingaman

Virginia Dental Journal

The ARTICLE provides strategies for dental practices to enhance patient communication through consistent engagement, automation, and effective content planning to improve patient retention and appointment scheduling.

Wellness Resources For Members And Students

Virginia Dental Journal

No abstract provided.

Ace Your Audit, Dilaine Gloege, Michael Weitzner Dds

Virginia Dental Journal

The article provides guidance on dental audits, emphasizing the importance of accurate documentation, coding, and compliance to prevent claim denials and ensure proper management of dental plans.

Vda Member Perks Endorses Ddsmatch Practice Transitions, Karen Wood

Virginia Dental Journal

The ARTICLE announces the endorsement of DDSmatch by VDA MEMBER PERKS for practice transitions and highlights the benefits of this partnership for VDA members.

Tips For Discussing Fluoridation With Patients

Virginia Dental Journal

No abstract provided.

Navigating Misinformation And Building Trust Through Communication, Michaela Mishoe

Virginia Dental Journal

The article provides guidance for dental professionals on effectively communicating and addressing misinformation about fluoride and oral health, while building trust with patients and the media.

Dental Detective Series, Zaneta Hamlin Dds

Virginia Dental Journal

No abstract provided.

Through The Looking Glass, Sarah Glass

Virginia Dental Journal

This feature discusses various oral pathology cases and their diagnoses, including Pyogenic Granuloma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, and Dens Invaginatus, presented by dental students.

The Game Is Changing … Will You Stay In The Game?, Bruce Hutchison Dds

Virginia Dental Journal

The article is a call to action for dentists in Virginia to contribute to the Virginia Dental Association Political Action Committee (VDA PAC) to maintain their influence in political matters affecting their profession.