Other Dentistry Commons^™

What You Must Know: Retention And Destruction Of Dental Records And Your Most-Asked Questions About Dental Records, Daniel Schulte Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

An overview of the basic information about dental records, including retention and destruction, that you and your staff should be aware of, provided by MDA Legal Counsel Dan Schulte, J.D. Plus, for your reference, answers to the questions Michigan dental offices are asking about dental record retention, access, release, and destruction.

Dental records are vital for patient care, legal compliance, and professional practice management. Michigan law mandates retaining dental records for a minimum of 10 years, ensuring their confidentiality, accessibility, and integrity. Destruction of records less than 10 years old requires patient notification and authorization, while those over 10 years …

The New Professional: A Guide To Finding A Mentor As A New Dentist, Amrita Patel D.D.S.

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Dr. Patel provides guidance for new dentists on finding and maintaining effective mentoring relationships. She emphasizes that mentors can offer valuable guidance during the transition from dental school to clinical practice. The article explains that mentors need not be exclusively dentists and can be found through various channels, including professional associations, dental societies, alumni networks, and social media platforms. It outlines strategies for identifying potential mentors by observing their clinical skills, professionalism, and leadership styles. The piece concludes with practical advice for maintaining productive mentoring relationships, including setting clear expectations, preparing for meetings, and maintaining consistent communication. The article emphasizes …

The Back Page: The Personal Touch Makes The Difference, Riley Schaff D.D.S.

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Dr. Riley Schaff discusses the importance of personal connection in engaging new dentists with organized dentistry. Drawing from his own experience of being personally invited to chair a New Dentist Study Club, he emphasizes that direct, personal outreach is more effective than digital communication in encouraging participation among early-career dentists.

The article highlights ongoing efforts at the state level to increase engagement, including enhanced presence at local events and networking programs. However, Schaff argues that grassroots efforts at the local component level are crucial for significant change in membership rates. He concludes that personal engagement from existing members is essential …

Are Leaders Born, Or Made?, William R. Chase D.D.S.

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The debate over whether leaders are born or made persists, but effective leadership often results from a combination of innate traits and learned skills. Transformational leaders inspire and motivate others, while transactional leaders focus on tasks without fostering personal connections. Servant leadership, particularly valued in the dental profession, emphasizes service to others, aligning naturally with patient care. Leadership styles, such as coercive, authoritative, and affiliative, demonstrate the complexity of leadership dynamics. Renowned authors like John C. Maxwell and Daniel Goleman emphasize adaptability and the importance of being a leader whom people want to follow. Effective leadership transcends settings, offering focus, …

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 Back Page: Connection And Support: It’S A Family Thing, Kristen Kemmer Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

In March 2023, the author welcomed her second daughter while managing the challenges of being a solo dental practice owner. With a supportive team, family, and a strong network of local dental colleagues, she successfully navigated maternity leave. Her dental team handled patient care seamlessly, and she leaned on friends and fellow practitioners for advice and emergency coverage. Online support and planning helped her manage financially, while collaboration within local dental groups ensured patient needs were met. The experience reinforced the importance of connection, support, and community in balancing motherhood and practice ownership.

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 …

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: 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.

Ethics And Professionalism, Dana Chamberlain Dds

Virginia Dental Journal

This article examines professionalism in dental ethics, based on a working draft of the 2017 Dental Ethics Primer by Drs. Bruce Peltier and Larry Jenson. It highlights the complexities of ethical decision-making and the responsibilities of dental professionals, who must balance autonomy with a commitment to competence and ethical conduct. The article outlines five key components of professionalism, emphasizing the importance of continuous education, adherence to ethical standards, and the willingness to prioritize patient care over personal interests. True professionalism is portrayed as service-oriented and deeply rooted in trust and ethical responsibility.

Take Action To Address Virginia’S Dental Workforce Needs, Ryan Dunn

Virginia Dental Journal

This article lays out the facts about the dental workforce situation in Virginia and offers potential solutions. The state's dental workforce is under pressure, with rising demand for dental assistants and hygienists and ongoing hiring challenges exacerbated by the pandemic. Despite having more dentists than the national average, rural areas still face shortages. The Virginia Dental Association (VDA) encourages members to support local dental programs, share their workforce challenges, and participate in advocacy efforts. The VDA is actively involved in finding both short-term and long-term solutions to meet the state's dental care needs.

N Y State Dent J August-September 2024

The New York State Dental Journal

In the August-September 2024 issue, the reader will find the following feature articles:

• Success of Implant Placement in Patients with Human Immunodeficiency Virus
• Effects of Mandatory COVID-19 Testing Policy on No-Show Rates for Aerosol-Generating Procedures
• Heterotopic Bone Formation after TMJ Surgery
• Rural Oral Health Access Disparities in New York State

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.

The Mda Forensic Dental Team Needs More Volunteers, Patrick Houlihan Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The Michigan Dental Association Forensic Dental Identification Team (MDA-FDIT) urgently needs more volunteers. In this article, learn of their impressive record of service to the public and the profession, which has been widely recognized for the important role it plays in the identification of both individual victims and those of mass disasters. Formed in the early 1980s, MDA-FDIT plays a crucial role in identifying disaster victims using dental records. The team has been instrumental in identifying victims from incidents like the 1987 Northwest Flight 255 crash and has assisted in various mass-casualty situations, including 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina. MDA-FDIT works …

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.

Advocacy Spotlight: Important: State Issues Changes To Delegation Of Duties Rules, Neema Katibai Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The Michigan Board of Dentistry has introduced changes to the rules governing the delegation of duties to dental auxiliaries, including the reclassification of "dental assistants" (those not formally trained or licensed) as "unregistered dental auxiliaries" (UDAs). The classification Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) remains. Changes involve the supervision levels for specific tasks and guiding training UDAs for orthodontic duties. Notable changes include allowing UDAs to perform certain orthodontic tasks and expanding their scope of work to include duties such as taking impressions, polishing, and providing nutritional counseling. Dental professionals should know these changes and the supervision required for delegation to UDAs …

N Y State Dent J November 2023

The New York State Dental Journal

In the November 2023 issue, the reader will find the following feature articles:

• Verruciform Xanthoma
• Use of a 3D Intraoral Scanner for Prosthetic Rehabilitation of Cocaine-Induced Oronasal Fistula
• Adenoid Ameloblastoma with Dentinoid

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.

J Mich Dent Assoc June 2023

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 interview introducing new MDA President Eric Knudsen of Escanaba.
• A feature review of the 2023 MDA Annual Session held in Grand Rapids.
• MDA President Dr. Benivegna's Opening Remarks before the 2023 House of Delegates.
• News you need, Editorial and regular department articles on MDA Foundation activities, Dentistry and the Law, Staff Matters, …

Headquarters Report: A Look At Some Of The Changes Over The Past 10 Years, Karen Burgess Cae

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

In what became her final report to the MDA House of Delegates, our late Executive Director Karen Burgess reflects on the changes in the dental profession and organized dentistry over the past decade. This transcription of her remarks highlights shifts in dental schools, practice choices, demographics, and market shares within the ADA and MDA. It also discusses societal trends like generational shifts, diversity, the job market, social media, and personal technology, emphasizing how they align with the dental profession. She outlines the MDA's proactive steps to address these changes and ensure that the association remains responsive to evolving needs.

Running For Political Office: These Dentists Did . . . How About You? Insights From Two Dentist-Legislators, W. Erick Rupprecht Dds, Lynn Aronoff

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The Michigan Dental Association encourages members to seek political office. Why? Having a member dentist hold an elected office improves the profession's visibility and builds relationships with other elected officials and community leaders who can support dentistry's goals. A dentist-legislator becomes a resource with their legislative colleagues when they debate health policy, regulations, and business initiatives. Having member dentists on the inside provides receptive ears when the Association advocates for the profession's needs and priorities.

To give insight into what public service by a dentist looks like, the Journal interviewed two colleagues who have made that commitment, State Representative Steven …

Staff Matters: I-9 Forms: What Every Employer Needs To Know, Jodi Schafer Sphr, Shrm-Scp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The I-9 form, mandated by the federal government, is essential for all employers, including dental practices. It verifies an employee's eligibility to work in the United States and is applicable to all employee types. Employees must provide documents like a Social Security card, passport, or driver's license for inspection within three days of hire. These forms should be retained for one-year post-employment or three years post-hire. Due to COVID-19, virtual document examination is temporarily allowed, extended until July 31, 2023. Non-compliance can result in costly fines, making regular internal audits advisable for practice adherence.

10-Minute Ebd: Are Hearing Protective Devices Effective For Protecting Clinicians From Noise Exposure In Clinical Practice?, Julie Frantsve-Hawley Phd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This Ten-Minute Evidence-Based Dentistry Article provides an example of implementing the evidence-based dentistry search process with trusted search engines and identifying the best literature through critical appraisal to answer the clinical question: Are Hearing Protective Devices Effective for Protecting Clinicians from Noise Exposure in Clinical Practice? This article examines the effectiveness of hearing protective devices for safeguarding clinicians from noise exposure in dental practice. The clinical environment, exacerbated by COVID-19 aerosol-reducing devices, exposes oral health providers to elevated sound levels. While there's no conclusive evidence regarding the impact of handpieces on hearing, occupational noise exposure in dental settings can affect …

10-Minute Ebd: Is Oil-Pulling Useful In Treating Periodontal Disease?, Heather Willey Rda

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The 10-Minute Evidence-Based Dentistry Column illustrates how to implement the evidence-based dentistry search process to quickly identify and apply the best literature to answer a clinical question. Through critical appraisal, the author of this article answers the clinical question: Is Oil-Pulling Useful in Treating Periodontal Disease? Examining the potential utility of oil-pulling as a treatment for periodontal disease and comparing it to conventional periodontal therapies. The study conducted an evidence-based search using various databases and keywords related to oil-pulling, periodontal disease, and oral health. The results revealed that oil-pulling is not a substitute for standard oral hygiene practices, and insufficient …

How The Mda Meets Your Need For Quality, Affordable Ce, Kevin Sloan Dds, Ms

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The Michigan Dental Association (MDA) is a prominent provider of continuing dental education (CE) in Michigan. This article includes a guide to State of Michigan Dental Licensure CE requirements and the mandated distribution of subject topics. To aid members in complying with these requirements, the MDA offers diverse educational sessions, live webinars, in-person seminars, and on-demand webinars tailored for dental professionals, including dentists, hygienists, assistants, and office staff. The MDA's CE program is shaped by its Committee on Continuing Education, comprised of diverse member dentists. The MDA collaborates with various committees, organizations, and dental societies to curate a comprehensive lineup …

J Mich Dent Assoc November 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 issue, the reader will find the following original content:

• A cover story on choosing an educational path for professional enrichment
• A feature story on how a Michigan manufacturer closed during the pandemic repurposes their operations to produce essential PPE, becoming a COVID Hero for Michigan dentists.
• A feature article on how the MDA provides CE for members to comply with Licensure mandates.
• Feature information on practice management …

Mda At Your Service: What Is The Recommendation Regarding Prescribing Clindamycin?, Eric Tye Dds, Angela Kanazeh Ms, Cmp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The MDA at Your Service Column addresses member resources available from the MDA. This month presents guidance in prescribing practices, particularly regarding clindamycin. Clindamycin’s association with an increased risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea, including Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) infection, has increased. The report highlights how to access an ADA clinical guideline, its preference for azithromycin over clindamycin, and the warning associated with prescribing clindamycin. Further reference is available in the August 2020 MDA Journal article "Antibiotic Guidelines for Dentistry: Who, When, What, Why and How to Prescribe,” by Elaine Bailey, PharmD, and Marie Fluent, DDS. Additional member resources discussed in this …

10-Minute Ebd: Does Articaine Compared To Lidocaine Result In A Higher Risk Of Paresthesia?, Ben Balevi Dds, Msc

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This Evidence-Based Dentistry column examines whether articaine, when compared to lidocaine, increases the risk of paresthesia in adults undergoing dental block anesthesia. After conducting a comprehensive literature search, the evidence suggests that 4% articaine may enhance the probability of achieving profound block anesthesia, with a very low risk of paresthesia, comparable to other dental local anesthetics. Considering this evidence in conjunction with the patient's preferences and values is crucial when making clinical decisions.

Mda At Your Service: Is It Too Late To File For An Employee Retention Tax Credit?, Eric Tye Dds, Angela Kanazeh Ms, Cmp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC) remains available for businesses affected by COVID-19, allowing them to claim a tax credit of up to $26,000 per employee. Eligibility criteria include a mandated shutdown, revenue decrease, COVID-19 impact, or supply chain disruption. Even businesses with forgiven PPP loans can apply for ERTC. The credit covers 2020 and the first three quarters of 2021 and must be filed by December 31, 2023. Dental Business Specialists can assist with ERTC filings. Changing your name upon marriage as a licensed professional, obtaining labor employment posters, and reducing credit card processing fees through MDA-endorsed programs are …

Advocacy Spotlight: Are You An Advocate?, Vincent Benivegna Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Advocacy is crucial for dentists in Michigan, as they face a unique opportunity to impact Medicaid dental benefits positively. Governor Gretchen Whitmer's budget proposal for 2023 includes a substantial $240 million investment to revamp dental Medicaid benefits, a historic move for the state. The Michigan Dental Association (MDA) has actively engaged with government offices and legislators to ensure this opportunity is not missed. However, despite the MDA's efforts to mobilize members through action alerts, response rates have disappointed. The article emphasizes the importance of consistent advocacy, as it has the power to influence dental practices and the well-being of patients …