Dental Public Health and Education Commons^™

Dentistry And The Law: Can I Be Reported To The Data Bank In Connection With A Billing Dispute?, Dan Schulte Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This Dentistry and the Law column addresses a dentist's concern about being reported to the National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB) during a billing dispute. The dentist questions the validity of such a report, considering no issues with treatment quality are raised. The response emphasizes that adverse actions based solely on billing practices may not be reportable to the NPDB. Additionally, it clarifies that a dental plan administrator may not be eligible to make a Data Bank report, offering guidance on informing the plan about rights and potential contestation.

J Mich Dent Assoc February 2022

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!

Infection Prevention In Dentistry: Reaching Our “New Normal”, Karen K. Daw Mba, Cecm, Marie T. Fluent Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article addresses the evolving landscape of infection prevention in dentistry amid the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the dynamic nature of guidance and standards. It explores historical perspectives, including the transition from "wet finger dentistry" to universal precautions and standard precautions. The focus then shifts to the regulatory considerations and the relevance of transmission-based precautions in the context of COVID-19. The Hierarchy of Controls is discussed, encompassing elimination, substitution, engineering controls, administrative control, and personal protective equipment. Respiratory hygiene, personal protective equipment, and infection prevention practices are compared between the pre-COVID era and the current landscape, emphasizing the importance of adapting …

10-Minute Ebd: Is Fluoride Varnish Safe And Effective?, Sara Toema Bds, Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This 10-Minute EBD column addresses a common clinical scenario where a parent questions the safety and efficacy of fluoride varnish for preventing dental decay in a pediatric patient. Conducting a 10-minute Evidence-Based Dentistry (EBD) literature search, the author explores the available evidence, pathways, and resources. The search includes Google, systematic reviews from Cochrane Library and Epistemonikos, and the American Dental Association (ADA) Center for Evidence-Based Dentistry database. The results confirm the safety and efficacy of 2.26% fluoride varnish, preventing 43% of caries in permanent teeth and 37% in primary teeth. The moderate-level evidence supports recommending fluoride varnish application, aligning with …

Staff Matters: Resolving Conflict Between Employees, Jodi Schafer Sphr, Shrm-Scp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This Staff Matters column addresses workplace conflict arising from an employee's abrasive communication style, affecting collaboration and patient interactions. Acknowledging conflict as normal, the advice emphasizes addressing it promptly. Steps include talking to those involved, identifying themes causing conflict, and meeting with individual employees to discuss concerns, impact, and potential solutions. Considering external stress factors, the focus is on open, respectful, and confidential resolution. Building a strong practice culture is highlighted for enhanced employee and patient satisfaction.

Commentary: The Role Of The Mda’S Committee On Diversity, Equity, And Inclusion, Mehul Patel Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This Commentary emphasizes the Michigan Dental Association's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, aligning with its 2021-25 strategic plan. The Committee on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is tasked with monitoring demographic trends, enhancing inclusion, recommending equity actions, and improving member value for diverse dentists. Rejecting perceptions of tokenism, the committee underscores the importance of embracing diversity beyond race, including various dimensions like age, gender identity, and practice setting. Encouraging members to actively contribute, the commentary emphasizes the role of diversity in strengthening the MDA and advancing oral healthcare.

Dentistry And The Law: Network Leasing Arrangements And Their Effect On Fees, Dan Schulte Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Dentists entering network leasing arrangements often face uncertainty about fees due to the lack of transparent fee schedules. While leasing companies aim to connect dentists with insurers and plans, the absence of clear payment information poses challenges. Dentists may receive varying amounts for the same services, impacting financial predictability. The article emphasizes the importance of understanding contract terms, obtaining fee schedules, and monitoring patient volume to assess the arrangement's overall benefit.

Thanks For Noticing!, Christopher J. Smiley Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The 2021 Member Value Survey highlighted the Journal of the Michigan Dental Association (MDA) as the organization's top-rated service, reinforcing its importance as the primary internal marketing tool. The Editorial emphasizes the collaborative efforts involved in maintaining the Journal's quality, including the Editorial Advisory Board, peer-review process, and the dedicated MDA team. Despite success, the Editorial calls for continued improvement, announcing plans to restructure the Editorial Advisory Board and invites members to contribute and shape the Journal's future, ensuring its ongoing value for readers.

Inclusion Of The Mobility Impaired In Our Community: Ask First!, Jeffrey M. Heinz Dds, Msd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This DEI Series feature article provides a unique perspective on the inclusion of individuals with physical disabilities, focusing on mobility impairment, in the dental profession and community. The author, a paraplegic orthodontist, shares personal experiences and challenges, shedding light on the importance of considering physical disabilities in dental offices. Navigational difficulties in compliant yet wheelchair-unfriendly spaces are discussed, urging practitioners to have contingency plans. The article emphasizes the significance of etiquette in assisting individuals with disabilities, encouraging respectful communication and asking before offering help. Practical insights on dental chair usage and transfer assistance are provided, promoting a more inclusive environment …

Staff Matters: Evaluating Performance During Covid-19 And Staffing Shortages, Jodi Schafer Sphr, Shrm-Scp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Amidst COVID-19 and staffing shortages, evaluating employee performance requires a nuanced approach. Recognizing the impact of pandemic stress, leaders must balance feedback with understanding. Acknowledge the challenges, celebrate achievements, and discuss growth areas collaboratively. Adjust expectations, focusing on essential issues and fostering a positive, forward-facing environment. Tailor evaluations to individual contributions, addressing concerns constructively. Prioritize one-on-one conversations to convey appreciation and align goals, ensuring a supportive workplace.

Psychosocial Factors Of Covid-19 Impact Oral Health, Neeru Ramaswami Bds, Ms, Mph

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The impact of psychosocial factors on oral health during the COVID-19 pandemic necessitates an interdisciplinary approach to patient care. This article, part of National Children’s Dental Health Month, focuses on adolescent oral health and eating disorders, authored by experts from the University of Michigan. With a dramatic increase in eating disorders among Michigan adolescents during the pandemic, especially affecting transgender and diverse youth, identifying such issues is crucial. General dentists, in an ideal position for interaction, can play a vital role in addressing these challenges, emphasizing the need for continued education and collaboration.

J Mich Dent Assoc January 2022

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Monthly, The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association brings news, information, and feature articles to our state's oral health community and the MDA's 6,200+ members. No publication reaches more Michigan dentists! In this January 2022 issue, the reader will find the following original content:

• A cover feature, “Eating Disorders in Adolescents: Facts and Recommendations for the Oral Health Team”
• An introduction to the Pediatric Health Series, “Psychosocial Factors of COVID-19 Impact Oral Health”
• A DEI Feature, “Inclusion of the Mobility Impaired in Our Community”
• A 10-Minute EBD, “Factors Impacting Gingival Margin Position Following Esthetic Crown Lengthening”
• News you need, an …

10-Minute Ebd: Factors Impacting Gingival Margin Position Following Esthetic Crown Lengthening, I-Ting (David) Lee

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The esthetic crown lengthening procedure aims to address gingival concerns and achieve harmonious crown proportions. This article explores factors influencing gingival margin position post-surgical intervention, focusing on patients with excessive gingival display. The PICO question investigates gingival changes six months post-surgery. A comprehensive literature search using keywords such as "esthetic crown lengthening" and "gummy smile" identifies relevant articles. Results indicate varied outcomes, emphasizing the importance of individualized approaches. Notably, factors like flap margin suture placement impact tissue rebound. This study underscores the complexity of esthetic crown lengthening, emphasizing the need for tailored strategies to ensure optimal outcomes.

Eating Disorders In Adolescents: Facts And Recommendations For The Oral Health Care Team, Catherine A. Miller Md, James R. Boynton Dds, Ms, Terrill Bravender Md, Mph

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Eating disorders typically begin during the adolescent years. These disorders are a spectrum of thoughts and behaviors related to food, weight and exercise that lead to significant psychological and physical morbidity. Medical complications of eating disorders are common and can be life-threatening. Dental providers can play an important role in care by recognizing oral signs and symptoms associated with eating disorders, giving advice on mitigating these issues, and helping patients and families connect with appropriate care. In this article, we provide key information about eating disorders, the complications including oral health issues, and advice for dental providers regarding care and …

J Mich Dent Assoc December 2021

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. No publication reaches more Michigan dentists!

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

• Two cover stories presenting perspectives from both ends of the practice life continuum: “Starting Your Practice Life” and “Preparing for Retirement”.
• A feature article, “What Happened in Vegas Became ADA Policy”.
• A feature article, “An Oversight Corrected: 2020 MDA Life Members Recognized”.
• The 2021 Author/Title Index to the Journal of the Michigan Dental Association. …

J Mich Dent Assoc November 2021

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. No publication reaches more Michigan dentists!

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

• Cover stories with a “Focus on Advocacy: Helping Dentistry Succeed”, including “MDA Dental PAC: What It Is and Why It Matters “, “2021 Advocacy Success — and More to Come “, and “Dental Programs Maintained in 2021-22 State Budget”.
• A feature article on “The Anishinaabe Dental Outreach Program”.
• A feature article, “How Your Website and …

J Mich Dent Assoc October 2021

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. No publication reaches more Michigan dentists!

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

• A cover story, “Welcoming Colleagues from Different Practice Models”.
• A feature article from the Journal’s DEI series, “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Perspectives from an LGBTQ Dentist”.
• A feature article, “Congratulations, 2021 MDA Life Members!”.
• News you need, Editorial and regular department articles on MDA Foundation activities, Dentistry and the Law, Staff Matters, and component news. …

J Mich Dent Assoc September 2021

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. No publication reaches more Michigan dentists!

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

• A cover story with “Reports from the Dental School Deans”, Dr. Mert Aksu and Dr. Laurie McCauley.
• A feature article from the Journal’s DEI series, “Building a Culturally Competent Practice”.
• A feature article, “Disability Insurance: 10 Things You Need to Know”.
• News you need, Editorial and regular department articles on MDA Foundation activities, Dentistry and …

J Mich Dent Assoc August 2021

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. No publication reaches more Michigan dentists!

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

• A cover story on “Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Dentistry: Understanding the MDA’s Perspective”.
• A feature article, “Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Dentistry: Its Impact on Oral Health — You Can Make a Difference!”.
• A feature article from the Journal’s DEI series, “Welcoming Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion with Students Considering Careers in Dentistry”.
• A feature clinical article …

J Mich Dent Assoc July 2021

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. No publication reaches more Michigan dentists!

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

• A cover story on “Measuring Outcomes to Improve the Quality of Clinical Care”.
• A feature article, “Is Your Office Winning or Losing the Race? You Won’t Know Without Measurement”.
• The feature article, “The DQA and Quality Measurement in Dental Programs and Plans”.
• News you need, Editorial and regular department articles on MDA Foundation activities, Dentistry …

J Mich Dent Assoc June 2021

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. No publication reaches more Michigan dentists!

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

• A cover story “Team-Based Treatment of Oral Cancer: The U-M Experience”.
• A feature article, “Dental Management of the Head and Neck Cancer Patient Treated with Radiation Therapy: Update 2021”.
• A feature article on “Understanding Cyber Threats and the Risk they Pose to Your Practice”.
• "A Train-the-Trainer Education Model and Rural Dental Opioid Prescribing Outcomes”, a …

J Mich Dent Assoc May 2021

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. No publication reaches more Michigan dentists!

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

• A cover story “3D Printing in Dentistry: Concepts, Technologies, and Applications”.
• An interview with new MDA President Dr. Mike Maihofer.
• The MDA award-winners for 2021.
• A feature article, “Things to Know about the New e-Prescribing Law”.
• News you need, Editorial and regular department articles on MDA Foundation activities, Dentistry and the Law, Staff Matters, and …

Dentistry And The Law: Unreasonable Non-Compete And Damages Provisions In Employment Contracts, Dan Schulte Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Non-compete and liquidated damages clauses in dental employment contracts must adhere to specific limits for enforceability. Courts require reasonable geographic and temporal constraints on non-competes, typically within patient-served areas under two years. Liquidated damages should reflect actual losses, especially in cases where damages are difficult to gauge. Courts may still reject these provisions if they find breaches or inequity. Employers are advised to strike a balance between safeguarding their interests and fostering positive work environments.

J Mich Dent Assoc April 2021

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

In the April 2021 issue of the Journal of the Michigan Dental Association, we offer a comprehensive range of original feature content showcasing the latest developments in dental practice and knowledge, including:

1. AI in Dental Care Delivery: Explore the groundbreaking role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning in dental care, revolutionizing efficiency, safety, care outcomes, and treatment planning consistency.
2. AI in Dental Claims Processing: Discover how AI is employed by third-party payers to streamline dental claims processing, resulting in cost containment and the proactive identification of potential fraud, waste, and abuse.
3. Evidence-Based Dentistry: As part of …

J Mich Dent Assoc March 2021

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. No publication reaches more Michigan dentists!

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

• A cover story, “Vaccination by Dentists: Integrating Vaccination into Dental Practice”.
• A feature article on “Creating Opportunities for HPV Awareness and Prevention in Dental Health Care Settings”.
• The feature article, “MDA Legislative Advocacy 2021: What We’ve Done and What’s to Come”.
• “How COVID-19 Has Impacted Michigan Dentists”, a feature article.
• News you need, Editorial and …

J Mich Dent Assoc February 2021

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. No publication reaches more Michigan dentists!

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

• A feature article on “Pediatric Dentistry: Care for Our Youngest Patients in the Challenging Time”.
• A feature article, “The Hall Technique: A Minimally Invasive, Non-aerosol Approach for the Decayed Primary Molar”.
• The feature article, “Delayed Antibiotic Prescribing: A Simple Strategy to Promote Antibiotic Stewardship”.
• ”Dentistry and the Current State of the Opioid Epidemic in Michigan”, …

J Mich Dent Assoc January 2021

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. No publication reaches more Michigan dentists!

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

• A cover story on “The Dentist’s Role in Recognizing Sleep-Disordered Breathing in Children”.
• A feature article, “Dental Sleep Medicine Education: Do You Want a Nap or a Full Night’s Sleep?”.
• The feature article, “In-office Plans: Where Are We Now? What Have We Learned?”
• News you need, Editorial and regular department articles on MDA Foundation activities, …

J Mich Dent Assoc December 2020

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. No publication reaches more Michigan dentists!

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

• A cover story on “The Dentist’s Role in Recognizing Sleep-Related Breathing Disorders: A Two-Part Series”.
• The “2020 Author/Title Index to the Journal of the Michigan Dental Association”.
• News you need, Editorial and regular department articles on MDA Foundation activities, Dentistry and the Law, Staff Matters, and component news.

This issue also includes three articles reprinted …

J Mich Dent Assoc November 2020

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. No publication reaches more Michigan dentists!

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

• Feature articles on how “Routine Blood Lead Testing During Pregnancy Empowers Future Dental Caries and Neurotoxicity Research”, how to “Recoup Your Dues and More with MDA-Endorsed Programs”, and your “2021 MDA Membership Benefits Guide”.
• News you need, Editorial and regular department articles on MDA Foundation activities, Dentistry and the Law, Staff Matters, 10-Minute EBD, Headquarters …

J Mich Dent Assoc October 2020

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. No publication reaches more Michigan dentists!

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

• A cover story, “Michigan’s New Hypertension Screening Guidelines: What Do They Mean for You?”
• Three feature articles: “The Mask Ask: Understanding and Addressing Mask Resistance”, “An Election-Year Message from Your MDA Dental PAC”, and “How to Respond to Online Reviews Without Violating HIPAA”.
• News you need, Editorial and regular department articles on MDA Foundation activities, …