Dental Public Health and Education Commons^™

It's Time For Some Important Conversations About Fluoride, Jessica R. Bentoski D.D.S., M.S., F.A.A.P.D., Sam Blanchard Dds, Ms

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The guest editorial by the Michigan Academy of Pediatric Dentistry's Drs. Jessica Bentoski and Sam Blanchard, addresses growing public debate surrounding community water fluoridation and emphasizes the vital role of dental professionals in providing evidence-based guidance to parents. As pediatric dentists, the authors highlight that fluoride remains a cornerstone in preventing childhood caries—still the most common chronic disease in children. They stress the need to understand and address parental beliefs, misinformation, and concerns through respectful, informed dialogue. Removing fluoridation could exacerbate oral health disparities and misperceptions about fluoride safety. The authors call on colleagues to initiate important conversations, advocate for …

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 …

March 18, 2025 — 2025 Coalition Letter Supporting Dr. Lorna Breen Reauthorization Act, American Dental Association

Advocacy in Action letters

No abstract provided.

March 10, 2025 — Letter To U.S. House Of Representatives On Introduction The Action For Dental Health Act Of 2025, American Dental Association

Advocacy in Action letters

No abstract provided.

The Ethical Dilemma Of Social Media, Janet H. Southerland

New Orleans Dental Association News

Social media has transformed dentistry, enhancing communication, education, and patient engagement. However, ethical challenges, including privacy concerns and misinformation, pose risks. This article explores the benefits and challenges of social media in dentistry, emphasizing the need for ethical guidelines to uphold professional standards while leveraging digital advancements for improved care and education.

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 …

February 5, 2025 — Letter To The House Ways And Means Committee On Tax, American Dental Association

Advocacy in Action letters

No abstract provided.

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 …

January 15, 2025 — Welcome Letter To Members Of The 119th Congress, American Dental Association

Advocacy in Action letters

No abstract provided.

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 …

Water Fluoridation: The Evidence Behind The Risk Of Fluoride Use, Margherita Fontana D.D.S., Ph.D., Carlos González-Cabezas D.D.S., M.S.D., Ph.D., Livia Tenuta D.D.S., M.Sc., Ph.D.

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The debate surrounding fluoride use for caries control has intensified due to recent events, including a National Toxicology Program (NTP) report and a court ruling mandating EPA action on fluoride levels in tap water.

Despite concerns about fluoride's potential neurodevelopmental impact at high concentrations, current evidence shows no adverse effects at the recommended levels of 0.7 ppm in U.S. community water fluoridation programs. While studies in regions with endemic fluorosis suggest an association between high fluoride exposure and lower IQ, methodological limitations undermine causal conclusions.

Global and U.S. health authorities, including the WHO and ADA, reaffirm the safety and efficacy …

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.

The Courts Strike Back, Lance Plunkett Jd, Llm

The New York State Dental Journal

Issues of water fluoridation and noncompete agreements continue to undergo legal scrutiny, with no clear-cut answers in the offing.

N Y State Dent J November 2024

The New York State Dental Journal

In the November 2024 issue, the reader will find the following feature articles:

• NYS Workers' Compensation & No-Fault Cases: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
• Social Media Use by Dental Students in Dental Education
• Guidelines for Interproximal Enamel Reduction (IPR)
• Exophytic and Focally Ulcerated Mass on the Mandibular Gingiva

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.

Discontinuing The Use Of Lead Aprons And Thyroid Collars In Dental Imaging: Evidence-Based Guidance For Michigan Clinicians, Erika Benavides Dds, Phd, Fabiana Soki Dds, Mdsc, Phd, James R. Geist Dds, Ms, Dennis Palmieri Mph, Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Recent guidelines from the AAOMR and ADA recommend discontinuing the routine use of lead aprons and thyroid collars during dental imaging, citing negligible radiation exposure from modern technologies and the ineffectiveness of these shields against internal scatter radiation. Despite strong evidence, Michigan clinicians may face challenges in adopting this change due to patient concerns and outdated regulations.

This article offers practical guidance for transitioning to these updated standards, emphasizing the importance of patient communication and education while highlighting Michigan's current regulatory framework.

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, …

J Mich Dent Assoc October 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 October issue's key content includes:

• Clinical Feature on Endodontics and Vital Pulp Therapy
• Practice Management Feature with Tips on Surviving the Death of a Partner
• An update on Advocacy

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.

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.