Other Dentistry Commons^™

August 19, 2025 — Coalition Letter - Reauthorization Of The Health Resources And Services Administration (Hrsa) Title Vii Health Professions And Title Viii Nursing Workforce Development Programs, American Dental Association

Advocacy in Action letters

No abstract provided.

What The ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’ Means For Dentists, John Looby Cpa, Theodore C. Schumann Ii Mba, Msf, Cfp, Aif

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Executive Summary: The One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB), signed July 4, 2025, significantly impacts dentists by extending and making permanent many 2017 tax policies. Key tax changes include permanent tax rates, an increased state and local income tax (SALT) cap, and new deductions for seniors, qualified tips, overtime wages, charitable donations, and auto loan interest. The qualified business income deduction is now permanent, and first-year bonus depreciation is restored. New "Trump Accounts" are established for children. Crucially, the OBBB introduces $50,000 annual and $200,000 lifetime caps on professional degree student loans, effective July 2026, and establishes the Repayment Assistance Plan …

Dentistry And The Law: Length Of Covenants Not To Compete, Dan Schulte Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article clarifies the distinct legal standards for covenants not to compete in Michigan, particularly relevant for dentists selling their practice and remaining employed. A covenant in an employment agreement is enforceable if "reasonable," typically limited to two to three years and the employer's patient draw area. In contrast, a covenant within a purchase agreement, considered a commercial contract, is judged under a more lenient "rule of reason" standard. This standard is easier to satisfy, requiring only that the covenant does not adversely impact the relevant market. Consequently, purchasers often use the purchase agreement to impose harsher, longer-term restrictive covenants.

Guest Editorial: Who’S Special Now?, Michael Maihofer Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This editorial discusses a controversial change in Michigan's dental specialty advertising law, which occurred in 2020. Previously, only state-recognized specialists, undergoing rigorous advanced training, could advertise their specialty status. However, a new rule, resulting from an out-of-court settlement, paradoxically allows general dentists not recognized as specialists to advertise as such without following advertising rules. This change is criticized for undermining public protection and creating unethical, misleading situations where general dentists advertise as pediatric dentists, for instance. The Michigan Dental Association (MDA) is actively working to revert this law by supporting House Bills 4593 and 4594 to ensure only recognized specialists …

The New Professional: Tracking Success: Essential Kpis For Owners And Associates, Amrita Patel Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article underscores the importance of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for data-driven success in modern dental practices. For new practice owners, essential KPIs include production, collections, and overhead ratio to ensure financial stability and operational efficiency. Patient flow metrics, such as new patient numbers and retention rates, are vital for growth. For both owners and associates, case acceptance rate reflects treatment plan conversion, and chair time utilization measures clinical efficiency. Other critical KPIs encompass hygiene production, patient satisfaction scores, online reviews, and accounts receivable aging. Associates can also track personal production and referral patterns for career development.

July 15, 2025 — Ada Letter To House Subcommittee On Health, Energy And Commerce Committee On "Legislative Proposals To Maintain And Improve Public Health Workforce, Rural Health, And Over-The-Counter Medicines.", American Dental Association

Advocacy in Action letters

No abstract provided.

The Back Page: Commentary: Going Non-Par: My Perspective, And 10 Lessons I’Ve Learned, Robert Antolak Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Dr. Robert Antolak shares his experience and ten lessons from transitioning his dental practice to a non-participating (non-par) status with insurance in January 2025, driven by declining reimbursements and the need to prioritize patient care. He highlights the unfairness of lower PPO reimbursements for newer dentists. Key lessons include securing a trusted coach, early patient communication, building a financial safety net, ensuring full team buy-in, committing with faith, tightening billing systems, frequent patient reminders, advocating for patients, creating an in-office payment plan (not percentage discounts), and clearly articulating the "why". Though revenue initially dropped, he anticipates full recovery, aiming to …

Moving Drives You Crazy, Michelle C. Dziurgot

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The Editor-in-Chief shares her frustrating experience moving a dental office. Key challenges included dental insurances dropping the practice from networks during recredentialing, causing denied claims for 30-60 days despite no changes to tax ID or NPI. State regulations also required new payments for radiation tubes, rather than crediting previous payments, despite a reduction in equipment. Furthermore, dental supply companies and movers did not take responsibility for broken equipment during the move. Despite these "insane and archaic" hurdles, most patients transitioned, and the article concludes with a comprehensive resource list for practice address changes

Turning The Page On The Past, Maurice L. Edwards Dmd

The New York State Dental Journal

Maurice L. Edwards, D.M.D., NYSDA’s 144th President, is committed to making a fresh start for the Association and its members.

To Thine Own Self Be True

The New York State Dental Journal

THE NYSDA DIVERSITY and Inclusion Task Force, charged with acknowledging and promoting the disparate components of the Association’s membership, joins in the national observance of June as Pride Month. Designated in 1999, Pride Month commemorates the contributions to life and culture made by lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer people. Among those celebrating and being celebrated this month is NYSDA member Alison Rascon, D.D.S., M.S.

The New Professional: Reimagining Rapport: Innovative Ways Dental Teams Connect With Patients, Amrita Patel Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article explores innovative communication strategies for dental practices to enhance patient interaction. It highlights the importance of digital onboarding for streamlined intake, two-way text messaging for efficient appointments, and personalized video messages to foster connection. Practices are adopting multilingual communication and AI tools like chatbots for 24/7 inquiry handling, integrating them with patient records for tailored responses. Interactive platforms with 3D visuals and video tutorials are used for patient education, empowering them in oral health decisions. The article also emphasizes leveraging social media for engagement, capturing real-time patient feedback, and maintaining empathy-driven human interaction despite technological advancements

It’S Time To Dare Greatly At The Ada, Michele Tulak-Gorecki Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Dr. Michele Tulak-Gorecki, a candidate for ADA president-elect, outlines her platform, emphasizing the urgency for bold, collaborative leadership within the ADA. She addresses member concerns following the executive director's resignation, focusing on rebuilding trust and enhancing oversight. Her vision confronts declining membership, financial issues, and the flawed association management system (AMS) rollout, advocating for increased transparency and financial literacy. Tulak-Gorecki stresses the ADA's vital role in advocacy and unity across the tripartite model to protect the profession's standing. She calls for collective action to create a transparent, inclusive, innovative, and unified ADA

The New Professional: Demystifying Dental Insurance For The New Professional, Amrita Patel D.D.S.

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This comprehensive guide explains dental insurance complexities for new associates and practice owners. The author distinguishes dental insurance from medical insurance, noting annual benefit caps of $1,000-$2,000 versus unlimited medical coverage. Four main plan types are detailed: PPO plans (most common, flexible), HMO plans (lower costs, network restrictions), Indemnity plans (no network limits, higher costs), and Discount plans (membership programs, not insurance). Key business considerations include in-network versus out-of-network decisions, with in-network providing patient attraction but reduced reimbursements, while out-of-network allows fee control but limits patient base. The article addresses practical challenges including write-offs (difference between standard fees and insurance …

Mda At Your Service: One Way To Free Your Practice From Insurance Plan Restrictions, Rachel Sinacola D.D.S.

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This Q&A-style article provides practical answers to common member questions. Topics include managing in-office dental plans (via Quality Dental Plan), evaluating associate contracts, showcasing MDA membership, handling radiography training course transfers, and understanding patient record retention requirements. The article encourages using MDA-endorsed resources and legal guidance to enhance practice efficiency and compliance.

Getting Help When The Going Gets Tough, Michelle C. Dziurgot D.D.S.

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

In her editorial, Dr. Dziurgot emphasizes the importance of emotional support and mental health resources for dentists. She shares her own experiences of turning to family in tough times and offers practical alternatives for those without such support. Strategies include journaling, creative expression, and seeking professional counseling through programs like the MDA Member Assistance Program and ADA Talkspace. She encourages open dialogue and mutual support within the dental community.

Student And Professionalism And Ethics Association (Spea) Reorganizes After Dormancy Since 2020

New Orleans Dental Association News

The Student Professionalism and Ethics Association (SPEA) promotes ethical growth in dentistry through student engagement, mentorship, and national collaboration. The LSU chapter, reestablished in 2025, is supported by faculty and the American College of Dentists.

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.

Congratulations To The 2025 Ud Mercy And U-M Graduates!, David Foe

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This brief congratulatory message from the MDA Journal welcomes the graduating dental classes of 2025 from the University of Detroit Mercy and the University of Michigan. It acknowledges the hard work and dedication required to complete dental school and expresses the MDA's enthusiasm in welcoming these new dentists to the profession in Michigan. The article mentions that class composite photos are funded by MDA Insurance & Financial Group and provided to each graduate. It includes a link to the composite photos in the digital issue and notes that the names of all graduates will be listed in the following pages.

Meet The Mda’S New President, Cheri Newman, Dds, David Foe

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This cover story introduces the new president of the MDA, Dr. Cheri Newman, highlighting her unique journey from dental hygienist to dentist. Dr. Newman discusses her motivations for becoming involved with the MDA, emphasizing the importance of giving back to the profession and the influence of mentors. She outlines her goals for the upcoming year, which include increasing membership, addressing workforce shortages, and tackling student debt. Dr. Newman also stresses the significance of member involvement in organized dentistry and acknowledges the challenges related to workforce issues like the need for more dental hygienists and assistants. She underscores the value of …

The New Professional: Exploring Careers Other Than Clinical Dentistry, Amrita Patel Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This "New Professional" column explores alternative career paths for dentists who find clinical practice unfulfilling. It encourages reflection on personal interests and highlights various options within the dental field and beyond, such as dental education, research, practice management, dental sales, product development, and public health dentistry. The article emphasizes that a dental degree provides a strong foundation for diverse roles that still contribute to the well-being of others. It suggests that transitioning to a new career path requires an open mind and a focus on one's passions and values. Entrepreneurship is also mentioned as a potential avenue.

Mda At Your Service: Questions About Dental Insurance Participation, Kristin Johnson Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article by the MDA membership Chair Kristin Johnson and the Michigan Dental Association (MDA) Department on Membership addresses common questions from dental professionals. It highlights the MDA's endorsement of PPO Negotiation Solutions to help members maximize profitability through insurance network participation and fee negotiation.

The MDA also provides guidance on hiring associates and their network participation, emphasizing the importance of understanding patient base and practice goals. Furthermore, the document outlines the MDA's resources for patient inquiries on water fluoridation, including talking points and online materials. Information on MIOSHA regulations and compliance within dental practices is also available through the …

Dentists Beyond The Chair: Caitlynn Haas, Dds, Holland, Mi, Rachel Sinacola Dds, Ms

West Michigan District Dental Society Bulletin

"Dentists Beyond the Chair" focuses on the out of office interests and lifestyles of West Michigan dentists. This article features Dr. Caitlynn Haas: a Holland, MI dentist and fitness center owner.

2025 Silent Bell Recipient: Richard W. Panek, Dds

West Michigan District Dental Society Bulletin

The West Michigan District Dental Society’s highest award is the Distinguished Service Award. This award, also known as the “Silent Bell,” is given to recognize contributions to organized dentistry. These contributions include service to dental professionals, patients, and the community.

Dr. Richard Walter Panek, a devoted oral surgeon and community leader, is honored with the 2025 Silent Bell Award. His life reflects compassion, practicality, and service, shaped by his Polish roots, faith, and deep commitment to family, dentistry, and the broader West Michigan community.

To Shred—Or Not, Stuart L. Segelnick Dds, Ms

The New York State Dental Journal

Every dentist should know by now that any personal information that can be used to identify someone in New York State cannot just be thrown out with the trash. Unless, of course, it is destroyed properly. Although many dentists’ offices are moving toward electronic recordkeeping, some still rely on paper charts or a hybrid. For offices that use paper, there are state laws and federal HIPAA requirements that address what needs to be done during disposal.

Dentistry And The Law: Yes, Dentists (And The Mda) Are Subject To Antitrust Law, Daniel Schulte Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This legal article explains how antitrust laws apply to dentists and dental associations. It clarifies that violations occur when competitors agree to activities that unreasonably restrain competition. The article distinguishes between "per se" illegal activities (price-fixing, group boycotts, allocation of territories) and those evaluated under the "rule of reason." Specific examples of prohibited activities include agreements on fees, discount limitations, or refusals to participate with dental plans. Enforcement can come from the DOJ, FTC, state agencies, or private lawsuits, with penalties including imprisonment, fines, and treble damages.

N Y State Dent J April 2025

The New York State Dental Journal

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

• Treatment Options for Pre-eruptive Intracoronal Resorption of Permanent Teeth: A Report of Two Cases
• Successful Treatment of a “Pedo-Endo” Lesion in a Primary First Molar
• Comparison of Untreated Caries and Caries-Risk Improvement in an Elementary-School-Based Comprehensive Dental Care Program

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.

Michigan Can Be Proud Of Dentistry's Volunteers, Michelle C. Dziurgot

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This editorial celebrates National Volunteer Week (April 20-26, 2025) by highlighting Michigan Dental Association members' volunteer contributions. The article emphasizes dentists' participation in MDA Foundation's Missions of Mercy programs providing free dental care, involvement in organized dentistry through committees and events, and recognition through various MDA awards. The author acknowledges members' non-dental community service and expresses gratitude for volunteers whose dedication strengthens the MDA and provides essential dental care to underserved populations across Michigan.

The Department Of Health Wants To Know What You’Re Up To, Lance Plunkett Jd, Llm

The New York State Dental Journal

On May 3, 2023, Gov. Hochul signed into law, as part of the enacted New York State Budget, a new Article 45-A of the New York State Public Health Law known as the “Material Transactions Law.” The law took effect on Aug. 1, 2023, but it awaited promised guidance on its application and enforcement from the New York State Department of Health. In March, adhering to its usual torpor, the Department of Health finally issued such guidance. The law basically requires reporting certain transactions, like practice acquisitions, mergers and sales, to the Department of Health.

Mda At Your Service: I'M Graduating This Spring - Now What?, Kristin Johnson Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article provides practical guidance for new dental school graduates on essential next steps, including licensing, insurance selection, employment contracts, and navigating patient disputes. It highlights key Michigan Dental Association (MDA) resources such as contract review, job placement support, and the Peer Review System for resolving patient conflicts. It also promotes Best Card for reducing credit card processing fees, emphasizing benefits for MDA members.

Going Non-Par: What Are Your Options?; With Sidebar: One Dentist’S Experience With Going Non-Par, Alan Laing Dds, Mba, Greg Maxson Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The article discusses the considerations for dental practices contemplating dropping insurance participation (going non-par). It emphasizes the importance of analyzing practice objectives, patient demographics, competition, and financial policies before making this decision. The transition to non-par status can impact patient relationships and requires a strong financial and collection policy. Ultimately, the decision should be based on a thorough understanding of the practice and its goals.

The sidebar presents supplementary content and includes a call for MDA members to share their experiences with non-participation in insurance plans and features Dr. Greg Maxson's personal account of going non-par. Dr. Maxson emphasizes that …