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J Mich Dent Assoc August 2026

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-plus members. It remains the main publication reaching Michigan dentists and is available worldwide through ADA Commons.

The August 2026 (Volume 108, No. 8) issue of the Journal is published in print format to provide updates and insights for Michigan's oral health community and MDA members. Print editions occur every other month beginning with January.

The August 2026 issue of the Journal of the Michigan Dental Association explores clinical, professional, legal, leadership, and public …

Mission Of Mercy: Restoring Smiles With Dignity, Anne Berquist

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This feature chronicles Michigan’s 2026 Mission of Mercy clinic, where more than 1,200 volunteers provided 5,656 procedures to 771 patients. The article describes patient experiences, volunteer contributions, and the extensive planning required to transform a sports arena into a temporary dental clinic. Beyond oral healthcare delivery, the program restored confidence, relieved pain, and highlighted the dental profession’s commitment to serving underserved populations.

Long-Lasting Impact Of Public Health Dentistry, Michal Herman Dds, Facd

Journal of the American College of Dentists

This article reflects on the enduring impact of public health dentistry through the author’s 25-year professional journey serving underserved and marginalized communities. It examines persistent barriers to equitable oral health care, including workforce shortages, inadequate insurance coverage, racial disparities, and limited access in rural and low-income populations. Drawing on experiences in nonprofit and community dentistry, the article highlights the importance of mentorship, advocacy, leadership, and community engagement in addressing oral health inequities. It argues that public health dentistry represents a form of professional altruism grounded in service and social responsibility, and calls on dental professionals to expand access, support workforce …

Community Health Centers And The Changing Landscape In Colorado, Ethan Kerns

Metro Denver Dental Society Articulator Magazine

This article examines the vital role Community Health Centers (CHCs) play in Colorado's oral health landscape, highlighting their delivery of comprehensive, integrated dental services to underserved and low-income populations. The author details how shifting state and federal policy and mounting financial challenges, threaten CHC’s sustainability, which could diminish access to essential dental care for hundreds of thousands and create ripple effects throughout the broader dental system.

Mda Foundation: Lead Leads To A Key Role On The Mda Foundation, Anne Berquist

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article highlights the role of the MDA Foundation in providing opportunities for professional development and expanding the impact of dentists' careers. It focuses on Dr. Beth Rosenberg's experience, who became a Foundation Board Member after participating in the MDA's Leadership Exploration and Development Program (LEAD).

The LEAD program builds leadership skills through immersion in organized dentistry. The Foundation raises funds through various events to provide scholarships to dental students and grants to community organizations that improve access to care. The article encourages MDA members to participate in Foundation fundraisers and to consider volunteering or donating.

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 …

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.

N Y State Dent J January 2025

The New York State Dental Journal

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

• The Open Apex Challenge: A Case Series
• Pathological Changes in Soft Tissues Associated with Radiographically Normal Impacted Teeth
• Bridging the Dental Care Gap: Addressing Oral Health Disparities in New York State Nursing Homes
• Dental Management of a Talon Cusp on a Permanent Incisor in Traumatic Occlusion

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.

Bridging The Dental Care Gap: Addressing Oral Health Disparities In New York State Nursing Homes, Apeksha Phulgirkar B.D.S., Pgcert, M.P.H., Stacy Mcilduff Cfre

The New York State Dental Journal

Oral health is a critical component of overall wellbeing, yet disparities in access to dental care disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, particularly elderly residents in nursing homes. Poor oral hygiene is linked to systemic health conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes and cognitive decline. Despite federal regulations mandating oral health assessments in nursing homes, many facilities lack adequate resources, and care often falls to undertrained staff. This study assesses the availability of onsite dental care services in New York State’s nursing homes and the role of mobile dental clinics in bridging the access gap, especially in rural and underserved areas. A …

General Dentists’ Education, Knowledge, Attitudes And Behavior Concerning The Effects Of Pregnant Patients’ Oral Health On Pregnancy Outcomes: A National Survey, Abad Mohammed O. Khuraybah B.D.S., M.S., James R. Boynton D.D.S., M.S., Robert F. Majewski D.D.S., M.S., Marita R. Inglehart Dr. Phil. Habil.

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Objectives: Since 1996, substantial evidence showed that pregnant patients’ oral health and pregnancy outcomes are related. The objectives were to assess general dentists’ education, knowledge, and behavior related to treating pregnant patients and how COVID-19 changed behavior related to these patients’ treatment.

Methods: 2,500 surveys were mailed to general dentists who were members of the American Dental Association; 96 letters were undeliverable and 253 surveys were completed (Response rate: 10.52%).

Results: 50.2% agreed/strongly agreed that they were well-educated in dental school about treating pregnant patients. Only 34% were satisfied with this education. The majority knew that periodontal disease was associated …

Dental Therapy In Washington State: Exploring Dental Hygienists’ Perceptions And Attitudes Towards An Emerging Workforce Model, Soy Mouy Gearheart

Dental Hygiene ETDs

Purpose: This study examines dental hygienists' perceptions of dental therapy in Washington State. Methods: A cross-sectional survey utilizing a Likert-scale questionnaire was conducted among dental hygienists recruited from Washington State Dental Jobs Facebook groups. Descriptive statistics and cross-tabulation analysis examined key variables. Results:Of the 46 participants (n=46), 72% reported that they believed dental therapy could improve access to care in underserved areas. Concerns about current educational standards for safe practice were noted. 11% expressed interest in pursuing a dental therapy degree within the next five years, motivated by interest and career opportunities. Notably, 67% of all male respondents indicated …

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 …

Governmental Affairs Update: Dental Medicaid, Neema Katibai Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The MDA spearheads an initiative to enhance Medicaid anesthesia services reimbursement, aiming to address the disparity between current rates and commercial standards. Despite recent improvements in Medicaid dental benefits, access to care remains hindered by low anesthesia reimbursement rates. The MDA advocates for a substantial investment to increase reimbursement to 85% of commercial rates, garnering support from various medical associations. This collaborative effort marks a significant stride towards achieving equitable Medicaid reimbursement. Grassroots advocacy is pivotal in influencing state budget decisions, urging constituents to engage with legislators via MDA text alerts.

The Back Page Commentary: Care For Special Needs Patients: We Must Do Better, Craig C. Spangler Dds, Fscda

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Despite strides in providing resources for neurodivergent and geriatric patients, access to suitable dental care remains a challenge. A survey revealed finding capable dentists as the primary barrier to care for special needs individuals. Transitioning from pediatric to adult care lacks continuity, highlighting gaps in predoctoral dental education. Challenges include inadequate training, limited opportunities for continuing education, and reimbursement issues. Collaboration between medical and dental leaders is crucial for addressing these pressing issues and ensuring equitable access to care.

The Mda’S Michigan Donated Dental Services (Dds) Program: How To Serve The Elderly And Disabled In Your Community And Build Your Team (Without Leaving Your Office!), April Stopczynski

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

April Stopczynski, MDA Manager of Access and Prevention, sheds light on the Michigan Donated Dental Services (DDS) program, elucidating its impact on individuals through poignant patient narratives and dentist testimonials. The article illustrates how DDS bridges the gap in dental care for the elderly, disabled, and financially compromised individuals in Michigan. The program not only restores smiles but also transforms lives by providing much-needed dental treatment through volunteer dentists and labs. This article presents the value of DDS for patients, providers, dental team members and the greater community. Information is provided on how to participate in this transformative program.

Governmental Affairs Update, Neema Katibai Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The article presents the American Dental Association's federal advocacy achievements during the first half of the 118th Congress. The ADA has made significant strides in influencing policy and regulations across various categories, including workforce issues, dental insurance reform, access to care, student loan debt, Medicaid, practice management, veterans' affairs, health information technology, and public health. Their efforts span from urging legislative action to collaborating with federal agencies and Congress members. These accomplishments showcase the ADA's commitment to advancing dental profession interests nationally.

Mda Foundation: 2024 Promises Great Things From The Mda Foundation, Anne Berquist

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The MDA Foundation is making significant strides in supporting dental and hygiene students and the community. In a recent announcement, 12 scholarships totaling $31,000 were awarded, thanks to donor generosity. The Foundation's upcoming Sparkling Smiles Celebration will provide an opportunity to meet scholarship recipients and acknowledge donors. The primary focus in June will be the Mission of Mercy event in Flint, aiming to offer essential dental care to up to 2,000 individuals. Volunteers are encouraged to participate, and financial support can be pledged online. Ongoing efforts include fundraising for the Karen Burgess Scholarship Endowment and the upcoming MDA Foundation golf …

Improving Access For Children And Adults With Disabilities Through Enhanced Commercial Benefits, Holli Seabury Edd, Jeff Johnston Dds, Ms

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article explores the critical issue of accessibility to oral healthcare for people with disabilities in the United States. Delta Dental of Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana has taken a step by providing enhanced commercial benefits to children and adults with disabilities. The article delves into the challenges faced by this vulnerable population, including cost barriers and transition issues, and discusses how expanded benefits and coding, along with special dental care provisions, aim to improve access. It emphasizes the importance of proper benefits verification and presents a case study illustrating the utilization of these benefits. The article highlights the need for …

Ensuring An Inclusive Environment For Deaf And Hard Of Hearing Patients, Joseph Samona Dds, Michael Korleski Rdh, Bsdh, Stephen J. Stefanac Dds, Ms

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article emphasizes the need for an inclusive environment in dental practice for Deaf and hard of hearing (DHH) patients. It sheds light on the challenges faced by DHH patients during dental appointments, such as communication barriers due to mask-wearing and lack of sign language interpreters. The article highlights the importance of using proper terminology, understanding communication preferences, and providing accommodations to ensure effective communication with DHH patients. It also discusses legal requirements, including the Americans with Disabilities Act, to provide reasonable accommodations. Ensuring inclusivity in dental practice is essential to improving access to care and enhancing oral health outcomes …

Evaluating The Impact Of Providing Free Dental Treatment To Vulnerable Populations, Brendan Dowd Dds, Betsy Bray Rdh, Bs

The New York State Dental Journal

The Dental Demonstration Project was studied over a five-year period to evaluate how the impact from attended events and the follow up intervention influenced dental health home status of patients who attended. The report includes information gathered from 24 events that took place throughout New York State.

N Y State Dent J November 2022

The New York State Dental Journal

In the November 2022 issue, the reader will find the following feature articles:

• Medications Associated with Oral Lichenoid Lesions: A Single-Site Retrospective Cohort Study
• Evaluating the Impact of Providing Free Dental Treatment to Vulnerable Populations
• Amelogenesis Imperfecta: Case Series and Review of the Literature

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.

Use Of A Simulated-Virtual Training Module To Improve Dental Hygiene Students' Self-Reported Knowledge, Attitudes, And Confidence In Providing Care To Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Pilot Study, Kimberly F. Cenzon, Ann M. Bruhn, Denise M. Claiborne, Jonna L. Bobzien

Dental Hygiene Faculty Publications

Purpose: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder affecting an individual's ability to communicate, interact, behave, and learn. The purpose of this study was to determine knowledge, attitudes, and confidence of dental hygiene students in providing care to children with ASD as a mechanism for evaluating dental hygiene curricula for patients with special needs.

Methods: A simulated-virtual training (SVT) intervention was developed as an interactive approach for educating dental hygiene students on providing care to a child patient with ASD. The SVT intervention consisted of a scenario in which the clinician "interacted" with a child with ASD who was …

Assessing Participant Feedback To Dental Screenings Provided By Dental Hygiene Students And Follow-Up Dental Hygiene Care In New York City, Susan H. Davide, Margarita Rivera

Publications and Research

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to validate the association between dental screenings and follow-up care to support the level of awareness of dental hygiene services available in the community by increasing access to care and determine patients’ knowledge of dental insurance status. Methods: A first-time dental screening was conducted, and complimentary care was provided for those who followed through with dental hygiene care at the clinic. Survey questionnaires were administered to participants following screening and clinic care. Results: Ten participants of the 50 screened received care at the clinic. Less than half of those screened (41 %) had …

Attitudes Of Virginia Dentists Toward Dental Therapists: A Pilot Study, Adaira L. Howell, Susan Lynn Tolle, Emily A. Ludwig, Denise M. Claiborne

Dental Hygiene Faculty Publications

Purpose: The purpose of this pilot study was to determine perceptions of Virginia (VA) dentists toward mid-level dental providers, specifically dental therapists (DT), and determine whether membership in the American Dental Association (ADA) membership affected attitudes.

Methods: A convenience sample of 1208 dentists in the state of VA were invited to participate in an electronic survey. The instrument consisted of 11 Likert type scale questions assessing attitudes toward DTs. Additional items included the appropriate level of education and supervision of a DT, and five demographic questions. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data. A one-sample t-test was used to …

Dental Disparities And The Safety Net In Blount County, Micaela J. Cornett

Undergraduate Honors Theses

This qualitative study focused on the dental disparities in Blount County, TN and sought to determine if there are enough dental clinics within the dental safety net. Interviews were conducted with 18 individuals who were either service providers or clients of organizations such as the Salvation Army, Alcoa Good Samaritan Clinic, the local health department, Trinity Dental Clinic, Volunteer Ministry Center, Remote Area Medical, and Blount Memorial Hospital. Inclusion criteria for clients included: homeless or living below the poverty level, uninsured, 18 to 65 years of age, has not seen a dentist in the past year and currently suffering a …

Mid-Level Dental Care Provider: Awareness And Attitudes Of Ohio’S Dental Hygienists, Cynthia S. Leverich

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to determine the awareness and attitudes of dental hygienists in Ohio regarding the Advanced Dental Hygiene Practitioner (ADHP) as an occupation proposed by the American Dental Hygienists’ Association and to determine whether the ADHP could be a viable career option for Ohio dental hygienists.

I developed a survey to assess dental hygienists’ awareness, attitudes, and their views regarding the new mid-level dental provider. The study was limited to licensed dental hygienists in Ohio. The study included a simple random sample of 400 of the 4100 dental hygienists in Ohio obtained by a systematic approach, …

Minority College Students’ Attitudes And Beliefs Regarding The Profession Of Dental Hygiene In Comparison To Their Oral Health And Dental Knowledge, Trina J. Morgan

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to find out the attitudes and beliefs of minority college students enrolled at Missouri College in Brentwood, Missouri in reference to the dental hygiene profession. In particular, does their oral health and dental knowledge relate to their knowledge of profession of dental hygiene? One hundred and six students gave their consent to participate in the study via Survey Monkey. The study was conducted in May 2015 for a period of four weeks. Four statements were designed to gauge minority students’ knowledge of dental hygiene as a career. No differences were found based on gender, …

Teledentistry: A Systematic Review Of Clinical Outcomes, Utilization And Costs, Susan J. Daniel, Lin Wu, Sajeesh Kumar

Dental Hygiene Faculty Publications

Purpose: The purpose of this systematic review is to identify clinical outcomes, health care utilization and costs associated with teledentistry. Relevant databases were searched for articles on teledentistry published until March 2012, reference lists examined and key journals hand searched. Of a possible 58 articles, 19 studies met the inclusion criteria.

Clinical outcomes were generally improved following a teledentistry intervention and satisfaction with teledentistry was consistently high. The few studies examining health care utilization reported mixed findings, but preliminary evidence suggests cost savings for health care facilities.

There is a consistent trend in the literature supporting the efficacy and effectiveness …