Dental Public Health and Education Commons^™

Mda Foundation: Two Great Opportunities To Help Your Foundation, Anne Berquist

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This announcement promotes two upcoming MDA Foundation fundraising events supporting scholarships and grants for dental care access initiatives.

The "Motown Magic" Sparkling Smiles event will be held April 23 during the MDA Annual Session in Detroit, featuring wine tasting, gourmet food, a silent auction, and entertainment. The MDA Foundation Golf Classic, sponsored by MDA Insurance and Services, takes place May 30 at Centennial Acres with an entry fee of $150 per person. Last year's golf event raised nearly $25,000, with proceeds benefiting oral health initiatives for underserved Michigan residents.

J Mich Dent Assoc April 2025

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Each month, The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association provides news, information, and features about Michigan dentistry to our state's oral health community and the MDA's 6,200+ members. It stands as the primary publication reaching Michigan dentists. The April issue marks the end of an era, as the MDA announced it would discontinue providing a print issue and focus on digital distribution.

This month’s issue includes a cover feature on going non-par, a feature article on pterygoid implant placement and restoration, candidate’s biographical statements, and information on a new membership benefit for health and well-being. Regular departments include the New …

J Mich Dent Assoc March 2025

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Each month, The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association provides news, information, and features about Michigan dentistry to our state's oral health community and the MDA's 6,200+ members. It stands as the primary publication reaching Michigan dentists. This month’s issue offers an insightful article on general-purpose AI to boost creativity and efficiency in dental practice. Helpful tips on protecting your reputation are provided in an article on Myths, Tips, and Tricks to manage online reviews. Readers then learn that ADA Commons provides much more than access to current and past articles and issues of the Journal of the Michigan Dental …

J Mich Dent Assoc February 2025

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Each month, the Journal of the Michigan Dental Association provides news, information, and features about Michigan dentistry to our state's oral health community and the MDA's 6,200+ members. It is the primary publication reaching Michigan dentists. The February issue sets the tone for the MDA’s Annual Meeting, Revving Up Dentistry, this April in Detroit.

A detailed Annual Session Preview is included within the Journal with course listings and activities planned for the four-day event. Regular Departments: News You Need, New Dentist Column, MDA Insurance, Dentistry and the Law, Staff Matters, MDA at your Service, Governmental Affairs, and a Michigan Dental …

J Mich Dent Assoc January 2025

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Each month, the Journal of the Michigan Dental Association provides news, information, and features about Michigan dentistry to our state's oral health community and the MDA's 6,200+ members. It is the primary publication reaching Michigan dentists. The January issue sets the tone for February, the observance of Children’s Dental Health Month.

Michigan Academy of Pediatric Dentistry President Jessica Bentoski welcomes readers to this special issue, which features a cover feature on “Approaches to Care for Children with Special Needs in Dental Settings: Desensitization and Teledentistry” and a supporting article on “General Dentists’ Education, Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behavior Concerning the Effects …

J Mich Dent Assoc December 2024

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Each month, The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association provides news, information, and features about Michigan dentistry to our state's oral health community and the MDA's 6,200+ members. It stands as the primary publication reaching Michigan dentists.

The December issue includes a timely cover feature on evidence supporting community water fluoridation, a clinical feature answering questions on patient dental records, a guest editorial on leadership by former MDA Journal Editor Dr. Bill Chase, and a Back Page article on how a personal touch makes a difference. We also provide our annual 2024 Author/Title Index and regular departments: The New Professional, …

J Mich Dent Assoc November 2024

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Each month, The Journal of the Michigan Dental Associationprovides news, information, and features about Michigan dentistry to our state's oral health community and the MDA's 6,200+ members. It stands as the primary publication reaching Michigan dentists. The November issue includes:

• Clinical Feature on discontinuation of lead apron use for dental radiology
• An introduction to the MDA Team and how they can be contacted to serve specific member needs
• A Back Page article on beginning practice and family
• Regular Departments: New Dentist Column, Updates on the MDA Foundation, MDA Services, Dentistry and the Law, Staff Matters

This month we welcome …

The New Professional: Starting A Practice Vs. Buying: What’S Right For You?, Amrita Patel Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This month's New Professional column explores the key decision of whether to start a new dental practice or purchase an existing one. Starting a practice offers flexibility in creating a brand and using the latest technology but requires building a patient base from scratch and managing upfront costs. Purchasing an existing practice provides immediate cash flow and an established patient base but requires more upfront investment and adapting to existing systems. Dentists should consider financial readiness, long-term goals, and work-life balance when making this decision.

Mda Foundation: How Your Donations Help Support The Vina Dental Clinic -- And Other Programs, Too, Anne Berquist

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

In 2007, Dr. Fredric Bonine and Dr. Sam Daniels founded the VINA Community Dental Center in Brighton, Michigan, to provide affordable dental care to low-income residents. The clinic opened in 2008, charging minimal fees for cleanings and appointments. Serving 1,500 to 2,000 patients annually, the clinic relies on volunteer dentists, partnerships with educational institutions, and grants. Notably, the University of Michigan’s Victors for Veterans program offers free dental care to qualifying veterans. The MDA Foundation supports the clinic through grants, contributing to VINA’s $250,000 annual budget. Donations to the MDA Foundation fund these efforts, ensuring continued access to affordable dental …

Your Mda Team: Working For You, John Tramontana Ms, Cae

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This month's cover feature introduces the Michigan Dental Association (MDA) team based in Okemos, highlighting their dedication to providing exceptional service and value to MDA members.

The team, many of whom have decades of experience, is always available to answer questions and offer support. With a focus on delivering top-notch service, the MDA staff strives to be the best dental association in the country. The article includes an overview of the team members, their roles, and a helpful "Who to Call" guide for members seeking assistance.

The executive director emphasizes the team's expertise and institutional knowledge, inviting members to reach …

Dentistry And The Law: Update On The Ftc’S Rule Banning Covenants Not To Compete, Daniel Schulte Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) Final Rule to ban most employee non-compete agreements, originally set to take effect on September 4, 2024, has been delayed due to ongoing litigation. Court decisions in Pennsylvania and Texas have resulted in conflicting rulings regarding the FTC's authority to enforce such a ban. A Pennsylvania district court upheld the FTC's power to regulate non-compete agreements, while a Texas court ruled against it, declaring the ban arbitrary and capricious. No appeals have been filed yet, and the issue remains unresolved, with potential appellate court decisions and the results of the presidential election likely influencing the …

How An Mda Policy Becomes State Law, Daniel Miller Dds, Tom Steinbis

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The MDA Committee on Government and Insurance Affairs is addressing concerns raised by dentists regarding the use of virtual credit cards (VCCs) by insurance companies, which have led to financial challenges such as transaction fees and delayed payments. The MDA has initiated a structured legislative process to resolve the issue, involving data collection, policy review, and drafting a bill in collaboration with legal experts and insurance companies. The legislation, introduced by Rep. Sharon MacDonell, aims to ensure that dental practitioners have alternative payment options that guarantee full reimbursement. The MDA continues to advocate for the bill through the legislative process, …

The New Professional: Debt Repayment Strategies: What New Dentists Should Know, Amrita Patel Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Dentists face significant financial challenges due to educational and practice-related loans. Effective debt repayment strategies are essential for financial stability and long-term success. Dentists should prioritize high-interest debts and explore consolidation or refinancing options to simplify debt management and reduce interest costs. Popular repayment methods include the "snowball" and "avalanche" methods, focusing on either debt balances or interest rates. Income-driven repayment plans for federal educational loans offer flexibility and potential forgiveness. Financial literacy, budgeting, emergency funds, and professional advice are key to successful debt management.

How Mda Advocacy Saves You Money – And More, Michelle C. Dziurgot Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The editorial emphasizes the value of the Michigan Dental Association’s (MDA) advocacy efforts in improving the dental practice environment and saving dentists money. Key initiatives include a bill ensuring dentists receive full payment without fees, laws regulating network leasing, and the elimination of a state tax on dental prosthetics. The MDA also helped expedite dental office reopenings during COVID-19 and ensured dental professionals were prioritized for vaccinations. Additional efforts include regulating mobile dental operations and updating regulations around sharps container replacement. The editorial encourages support for MDA advocacy through engagement and donations to the MDA Dental PAC.

Outcome Of Vital Pulp Therapy Using Mta And Biodentine In Permanent First Molars With Or Without Pulpitis In Pediatric Patients, Daniel Nho Dmd, Ms, Susan Paurazas Dds, Ms, Mhsa, Mazin Askar Bds, Ms, Salwa Atwan Dds, Ms

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Purpose: This study evaluated the outcome of vital pulp therapy (VPT) in permanent first molar teeth using Biodentine (Septodont, Saint Maur des Fosses, France) or ProRoot MTA (Dentsply Tulsa Dental Specialties, Johnson City, Tenn.) in pediatric patients. Methods: Permanent first molar teeth with or without a history of pulpitis from patients aged 7 to 14 years old were treated at the Graduate Endodontic Clinic from September 2007 to August 2022. A retrospective cohort clinical trial was conducted. VPT was performed on a total of 22 teeth. There were 13 teeth in the Biodentine (BD) group and nine teeth in the …

U-M School Of Dentistry: Collaborating With Michigan’S Dentists To Move The Profession Always Forward, Jacques E. Nör Dds, Ms, Phd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Completing his first year as dean of the University of Michigan School of Dentistry Dr. Nor highlights the importance of community-based learning in dental education. Students gain valuable experience through rotations at various clinics across Michigan, including those serving underserved populations. The dean emphasizes the generosity of dentists who mentor students and the importance of the Oath of Aspiring Dentists. The Commission on Dental Accreditation completed its site visit at our school in March. Its findings identified numerous strengths during the formal review that American dental schools must complete every seven years. Demographic data on the incoming class of 2028 …

Deans Report Udm: The World Needs Titans -- Serving Our Community And Beyond, Mert N. Aksu Dds, Jd, Mhsa, Cert. Dph

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Detroit Mercy's Dental School is experiencing increased popularity despite a growing number of dental schools nationwide. The school emphasizes a learner-centered approach, focusing on student development and clinical experience. Key changes to the curriculum include increased integration of biomedical sciences and case-based learning. Detroit Mercy's commitment to excellence, community service, and humanistic care sets it apart from other dental schools.

You Can Drive Cdt Code Changes: Essential Tips For Success, Frank J. Pokorny Ii, Mba, Facd(Hon)

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The American Dental Association (ADA) Code on Dental Procedures and Nomenclature (CDT) undergoes annual updates to reflect evolving dental practices. Building on Mr. Pokorny's April 2024 article, "Dentistry’s CDT Code: Its Origins, Use, and Future," published in the Journal of the Michigan Dental Association1, this article examines the process for requesting changes to the CDT code set. Overseen by the ADA Council on Dental Benefit Programs’ Code Maintenance Committee (CMC), the process provides clear guidelines for submitting change requests. This paper outlines the types of permissible changes and the rationale behind them, offering dentists and other stakeholders the opportunity to …

J Mich Dent Assoc September 2024

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Each month, The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association provides news, information, and features about Michigan dentistry to our state's oral health community and the MDA's 6,200+ members. It stands as the primary publication reaching Michigan dentists. The September issue highlights Michigan's dental schools and provides practical information for dentists. Key Content:

• Cover Stories: Features written by the deans of the University of Detroit Mercy and the University of Michigan dental schools.
• CDT Code Revision: A guide on how to contribute to the revision of the Current Dental Terminology code.
• UP Dental Meeting: An overview of the upcoming Upper Peninsula …

The New Professional: Tips For Dealing With Unpleasant Patients, Amrita Patel Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article emphasizes the importance of managing unpleasant patients in dentistry through empathy, effective communication, and tailored care. Dentists should understand that patient anxiety often stems from fear or past trauma. Building trust through clear explanations, personalized comfort measures, and pain management is crucial. Techniques like guided imagery and gradual exposure can help reduce anxiety. Consistency in care and follow-up support strengthens patient relationships, making even the most challenging patients more comfortable and cooperative.

A Problem-Solving Tool You Can Use, Michelle C. Dziurgot Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This month, the MDA Editor discusses a presentation from the summer board meeting that resulted in nostalgic recollection of the '90s hit "Whoomp! (There It Is)" and the evolution of her career from a dental student to managing a large practice. The article introduces the WOOP (Wish, Outcome, Obstacle, Plan) method, a problem-solving tool used to address challenges in patient scheduling due to a shortage of hygienists. By applying WOOP, the practice aims to prioritize reliable patients and manage appointments more effectively, ultimately reducing stress and improving workflow.

Dentistry And The Law: Hiring A Crna To Work In Your Practice, Daniel Schulte Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This column addresses whether a dental practice can hire a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) to administer anesthesia. A CRNA can be hired if the requirements of Michigan's MCL 333.17210 and the Michigan Administrative Code are met. The CRNA must have sufficient experience or advanced degrees and work collaboratively in a patient-centered care team. The dental office must have policies for immediate clinical response, and all involved personnel must be certified in basic cardiac life support. Additional rules apply depending on the sedation level provided.

A Visit To The U.P.: The 106th Annual Upper Peninsula Dental Meeting, Elizabeth Knudsen Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The Cloverland District Dental Society hosted its 106th annual meeting in Gladstone, Michigan. The event included continuing education, guest speakers, a business meeting, and social activities. The meeting also featured student involvement and discussions about rural dentistry. The next meeting will be held on Mackinac Island in June 2025.

Va Dent J January, February & March 2023

Virginia Dental Journal

In the January, February and March 2023 issue, the reader will find the following feature articles:

• An Interview with Dr. Richard Roadcap: Virginia Dental Journal Editor (2007 – 2023)
• Through the Looking Glass: The Fantastical World of Oral Pathology
• Treatment Access and Outcomes for Craniofacial Care: Patient and Parent Perspectives
• Cheiloscopy
• We’re Taking on the Fight tor Fairness and Transparency: We Need More Dentists to Join the Fight
• Serving the Petersburg Community: VDA Foundation Collaboration with Central Virginia Health Services

This issue includes regular columns with regional news impacting the Virginia membership including: editorial and perspectives columns, legal, association activities, …

Staff Matters: Assessing Health Benefits For Lgbtq+ Employees, Jodi Schafer Sphr, Shrm-Scp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

To support LGBTQ+ employees, understand your health benefits by asking key questions about domestic partner coverage, mental health benefits, transgender healthcare, IVF, and surrogacy coverage, and identifying LGBTQ+-friendly providers. Regularly check in with staff to ensure benefits meet their needs and consider making changes if necessary. Proactively share benefit information throughout the year to enhance employee recruitment, retention, and engagement.

Mda Foundation Mission Of Mercy: Transforming Lives, Relieving Pain, Anne Berquist

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The MDA Foundation's Mission of Mercy (MOM) dental clinic in Flint provided free dental care to 659 patients over June 14-15, delivering 6,678 procedures valued at $1,156,285. The 120-chair clinic, set up by volunteers, saw patients from 35 Michigan counties and neighboring states. Patients, many of whom queued overnight, received an average of ten procedures each. Volunteers, including retired dentists, performed a wide range of services, from cleanings to complex surgeries. Translators were available to assist non-English speakers, and patients were informed about ongoing free or reduced-cost care options. The event, supported by local donations and community services, will continue …

Locum Tenens Dentists: You May Need One, Or You May Be One, Angie Kanazeh

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Locum tenens dentists temporarily fulfill the duties of an absent or short-staffed dentist. This practice is beneficial for both hiring dentists and those serving as locum tenens. For hiring dentists, considerations include ensuring the locum tenens dentist is properly licensed, credentialed with insurance networks, and adequately insured. For locum tenens dentists, benefits include flexible schedules, diverse experiences, networking opportunities, and potential higher earnings. Both parties should have clear agreements and consult with healthcare attorneys. The demand for locum tenens dentists is growing, offering valuable support in the dental community.

Mda Insurance: At Last – A Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance Policy That Can Help Pay For Catastrophic Care, Craig Start

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Families face tough caregiving decisions due to high custodial care costs, often resulting in financial and emotional strain. MDA Insurance offers an affordable whole life insurance policy with a catastrophic loss rider, providing $2,000 monthly for up to 12 months for those unable to perform daily living activities. This policy, issued by Boston Mutual Life Insurance, is available on a guaranteed-issue basis and accumulates cash value. Apply by Aug. 30 for an Oct. 1 effective date. Contact MDA Insurance for more information.

Mda At Your Service: My License Expired, And I’M Overwhelmed, Kristin Johnson Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The Michigan Public Health Code allows a 60-day grace period for license renewal with late fees and CE requirements. For health insurance options, MDA Insurance provides assistance and quotes. Attend the MDA Health Insurance Seminar on Oct. 25 for more insights. Engage in organized dentistry via local society meetings, the MDA Leadership Forum, and the LEAD Program. MDA Insurance offers Medicare support, including educational events on Sept. 13 and 27. For more details, contact relevant MDA representatives.

The New Professional: Mastering Those Awkward Moments With Patients, Amrita Patel Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Navigating awkward moments in a dental office is essential for positive patient experiences. Establish rapport with patients, use active listening, and avoid jargon. Prepare for common scenarios, communicate clearly, and address fears. Stay calm with difficult questions and provide honest answers. Train staff through role-play and feedback, and cultivate a positive, empathetic environment. Regularly solicit patient feedback to improve. These strategies ensure patients feel valued and supported.