Other Dentistry Commons^™

Pearls From Local Dentists: The Problem In Your Practice Probably Isn’T A Staffing Problem

West Michigan District Dental Society Bulletin

"Clinical Corner: Pearls from Local Dentists" is a section of the WMDDS Bulletin where local dentists share clinical wisdom for fellow practitioners. This edition discusses The Problem in Your Practice Probably Isn’t a Staffing Problem.

Clinical Corner: Pearls From Local Dentists

West Michigan District Dental Society Bulletin

"Clinical Corner: Pearls from Local Dentists" is a section of the WMDDS Bulletin where local dentists share clinical wisdom for fellow practitioners. This edition's topics include Behavior Guidance in Pediatric Dentistry, occupational pain, and occupational hearing loss

Arctic Barnabas Ministries: Another Giving Tradition

West Michigan District Dental Society Bulletin

Each Fall, a team of dedicated dental professionals travel from their West Michigan practices to the heart of Alaska to provide much-needed dental care to missionary families who serve in some of the state’s most remote regions. In this interview Dr. Devin Norman discusses the group's mission, the challenges they face, and the stories that have stayed with them.

Better To Give Than To Receive

West Michigan District Dental Society Bulletin

In this article Dr. Sarah Bouwkamp shares her experience joining a University of Michigan dental mission trip to Guatemala, serving patients in need and rediscovering the deeper purpose of dentistry.

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.

From Diagnosis To Advocacy: A Dentist’S Journey With The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Jeffrey M. Heinz D.D.S., M.S.D.

West Michigan District Dental Society Bulletin

This narrative reflects a dentist's personal journey from leukemia diagnosis to a decade of remission, highlighting the transformative role of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) in cancer research, patient support, and advocacy. The reflection emphasizes the pivotal role of LLS in advancing blood cancer research, providing patient support, and advocating for affordable care. The author calls on dental professionals to contribute their expertise and leadership to support LLS’ mission and advance blood cancer treatments.

Dental Compacts, Bill Sullivan Jd

West Michigan District Dental Society Bulletin

This Advocacy Avenue article covers all things dental compacts, including current policy. It is adapted from an interview with Bill Sullivan, MDA Vice President of Advocacy and Professional Affairs.

Adpac And You

West Michigan District Dental Society Bulletin

This Advocacy Avenue article is adapted from an interview with MDA Trustee and District 9 ADPAC Board Member Michelle Szewczyk.

The MDA and ADA invest a great deal of manpower and finance to bring value to the membership in the form of advocacy. This is critical, as dentists’ collective interests are represented by the MDA/ADA.

Lobby Day creates a space for attendees to engage with political analysts and subject matter experts who are working with Congress and other federal officials to represent our profession. There were more than 1,200 attendees at this year's Lobby Day, a record for the ADA. …

Wmdds In The House (Of Delegates)!

West Michigan District Dental Society Bulletin

Do you ever wonder what occurs at the MDA House of Delegates? This article will summarize what happens at the House of Delegates during Annual Session and will let you know the roles your fellow WMDDS members played in it this year.

James E. Reagan, Dds: The Apple Doesn’T Fall Far From The Tree

West Michigan District Dental Society Bulletin

West Michigan’s Jim Reagan was born James Edward Reagan on October 22nd, 1957, and he grew up in Lowell, Michigan. Jim was the fourth of ten Reagan children born to Bob (Robert Reagan, DDS) and Carol Reagan. Carol Reagan was an RN from Marquette, but her time was filled by being a homemaker. Jim’s dad, Bob Reagan, practiced as a dentist in Lowell, MI from 1953 until 1993. In fact, Bob Reagan was recognized with the Silent Bell in 1993. Jim and Bob are the first multi-generational family members to share that honor.