Other Dentistry Commons^™

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 …

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 …

10-Minute Ebd: Stimulant Medications, Rampant Caries, And Prevention, Madison Thomas Bs, Nancy Poznick Dds, Melanie E. Mayberry Dds, Ms-Hcm

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 of a connection between stimulant medications, rampant caries, and prevention, with a focus on the impact of ADHD medication on oral health. The term "meth mouth" often associated with dental decay is discussed in the context of xerostomia (dry mouth), a common side effect of stimulant medications. The article uses the PICO (Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome) system to formulate a research …

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 …

Covid-19’S Impact On Dental Practice: Managing With Less Support, Christopher J. Smiley Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This editorial explores the impact of COVID-19 on dental practice, focusing on the challenges of managing with reduced support due to workforce shortages. The author shares personal experiences highlighting broader workforce realities, including stress, compensation concerns, and a desire for work-life balance contributing to the "Great Resignation." The dental field, already facing shortages, witnesses increased competition for skilled professionals, with corporate dentistry exacerbating the situation. The editorial discusses potential solutions, such as revising delegation rules, addressing relicensure barriers, and advocating for higher education funding. The lasting changes in dental practice administration and patient care delivery post-COVID-19, including potential shifts in …

10-Minute Ebd: Charcoal Toothpastes Pose Risks With Few Benefits, Kelly Lemke Dds, Ms

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The rising popularity of charcoal toothpaste, fueled by social media influencers and claims of teeth-whitening benefits, prompts an investigation into its effectiveness and potential risks. The article explores the evidence through a PICO (Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome) question focused on patients seeking whiter teeth. A literature review reveals limited scientific validation for the cosmetic or health benefits of charcoal-containing oral products. The abrasiveness of charcoal toothpaste poses risks, potentially leading to enamel loss, dentin exposure, and hypersensitivity. Lack of fluoride in many charcoal toothpaste formulations raises concerns about caries risk. The article emphasizes the importance of dental providers conducting due …

Dentistry And The Law: Winning Your Case And Still Being Sanctioned, Dan Schulte Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This Dentistry and the Law column discusses a perplexing scenario where a dentist, despite winning a licensing case trial, faces sanctions imposed by the Disciplinary Subcommittee (DSC) of the Board of Dentistry. The article unveils the intricate process of disciplinary actions, from administrative complaints to administrative hearings, emphasizing the pivotal role of the DSC in determining sanctions. It clarifies that success in an administrative hearing doesn't guarantee a favorable outcome, as the DSC holds ultimate authority, subject to limited Court of Appeals review.

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.

Ada Trustee Report: Working To Make Each Member Feel Welcome, Michele Tulak-Gorecki Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

ADA 9th District Trustee Dr. Michele Tulak-Gorecki shares insights from the ADA Board Retreat, emphasizing the importance of communication, board culture, and fostering a welcoming environment for all members. Dr. Cesar Sabates, the new ADA president, encourages a spirit of love, respect, and cooperation, envisioning the ADA as a supportive family. The column highlights the significance of making every member feel truly welcome and part of something special. ADA Executive Director Dr. Ray Cohlmia's vision focuses on customer focus, global presence, innovation, sustainability, and nimbleness, with upcoming innovative changes in ADA operations.

Headquarters Report: A Look Back, A Step Forward, Karen Burgess Cae

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

In her Headquarters Report, MDA Executive Director Karen Burgess reflects on the dental landscape entering the third year of the COVID-19 pandemic, acknowledging the "new normal" with increased demand for services, staff shortages, and supply chain challenges. Despite uncertainties, the Michigan Dental Association (MDA) maintained membership numbers better than expected, with a slight decrease in market share. The report emphasizes the importance of member value, highlighted by a favorable Net Promoter Score (NPS) and positive feedback on MDA benefits. It also discusses efforts in diversity, equity, and inclusion, along with successful advocacy initiatives influencing oral health in Michigan.

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 …

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.

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 September 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, “Perspectives from the Deans: Michigan’s Dental Schools in the Time of COVID-19"
• Five feature stories: “There’s a New CDA-to-RDA Pathway in West Michigan”, “We Can Do Something to Meet the Need for More RDAs”, “Coronavirus in the Workplace: Frequently Asked Questions and Answers”, “Statistics Tutorial Part IV: Common Statistical Errors”, and “Preparing …

J Mich Dent Assoc August 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 "Antibiotic Guidelines for Dentistry: Who, When, What, Why, and How to Prescribe”.
• A feature, “Collaboration Is the Wave of the Future: Hospital-Based General Practice Residency”.
• “Taking Advantage of Secondary and Tertiary Evidence”, a feature in the JMDA’s series on evidence-based dentistry.
• “Statistics Tutorial Part III: Interpretation of Forest Plots from Meta …

Oral Complications In Cancer Patients: A Review Of Practical Interventions In The Dental Setting, Caroline Bissonnette Dds, Kristin Mcnamara Dds, John Kalmar Dmd, Phd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Cancer prevalence in the United States is significant, with an estimated 40% of the population experiencing this diagnosis at some point in their lives. In 2020 alone, 1,806,590 new cancer cases were projected, encompassing 53,260 cases involving oral and oropharyngeal malignancies. Amidst barriers like financial constraints and irregular dental visits (highlighted by a 2014 American Dental Association survey indicating that 32.3% of the general population avoids yearly dentist appointments), patients battling cancer often encounter not just routine dental needs, but the intricate challenges arising from their malignancy and treatments. Dental professionals, pivotal in orchestrating optimal treatment strategies for cancer patients, …

The Skill Of Critical Appraisal: Determining If The Results Are Valid, Julie Frantsve-Hawley Phd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article continues the Journal's series on implementing the Evidence-Based Dentistry (EBD) process into clinical practice. The abundance of scientific literature can make finding the best evidence to answer a clinical question challenging. This article presents strategies for critically appraising literature to ensure the validity and reliability of its conclusions.Implementing evidence-based dentistry requires the adept integration of current evidence into clinical practice. A robust evidence-based approach hinges on the provider's competence in identifying and effectively applying evidence to practice. This entails addressing three key questions: 1) Are the results valid? 2) What are the results? and 3) Can the evidence …