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Mda At Your Service: Updating Your Practice Roster With The Mda, Mda Membership Department Staff

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This question-and-answer article provides practical guidance for MDA members on updating practice rosters, accessing continuing education opportunities, addressing staffing shortages through virtual assistants, and participating in the MDA LEAD Program. The article highlights available member resources and emphasizes professional development, workforce support, and leadership growth within organized dentistry.

Mda Insurance: Voluntary Benefits Help With Employee Recruitment, Satisfaction, Retention, Craig Start

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

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This article discusses how voluntary employee benefits can strengthen recruitment, retention, and employee satisfaction in dental practices. Topics include health insurance, disability coverage, life insurance, critical illness protection, accident insurance, vision plans, and cafeteria plans. The author explains how benefit offerings can improve workplace competitiveness while helping employees manage financial risks and healthcare costs.

J Mich Dent Assoc July 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 July 2026 (Volume 108, No. 7) 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 July 2026 issue of the Journal of the Michigan Dental Association celebrates the 40th anniversary of the association's …

July 2026 Mda Insurance — Voluntary Benefits Help With Employee Recruitment, Satisfaction, Retention, Craig Start

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Craig Start, president of MDA Insurance, addresses the ongoing dental staffing shortage by advocating for comprehensive employee benefit packages. He explains how offering a mix of employer-paid and voluntary benefits, such as disability, life, and vision insurance, can make a practice a more desirable employer. The article specifically highlights the MDA Health Plan and employee-paid options like critical illness insurance, which help offset financial exposure from high-deductible plans. Start notes that these voluntary benefits are cost-effective for employers and can be administered through pre-tax cafeteria plans to improve employee economic security and retention.

Your New Mda President: Dr. Melanie Mayberry, David Foe

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This feature introduces Dr. Melanie Mayberry, the 2026-27 president of the Michigan Dental Association. An interview details her extensive background in private practice, DSOs, academia, and public health. Dr. Mayberry discusses the primary challenges facing dentists, specifically workforce gaps and flat reimbursement models. Her agenda for the upcoming year includes finalizing a new strategic plan, modernizing the Annual Session, and enhancing member engagement through mentorship programs for new graduates.

May 2026 News You Need, David Foe

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This source provides comprehensive updates on organized dentistry, including the appointment of Dr. Nader A. Nadershahi as the new ADA executive director. It reports on the MDA's current membership market share, which remains high at approximately 70% despite national trends. Significant health topics covered include Mental Health Awareness Month resources like the Well-Being Index and a patient fact sheet linking oral health to systemic conditions like heart disease and diabetes.

Mda Services: Don’T Get Bogged Down: Regulatory Compliance, Reva Darling

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This column encourages dental practice owners to utilize MDA-endorsed vendors to simplify business operations and ensure regulatory compliance. It specifically recommends Eagle Associates for HIPAA and OSHA training and Complete Dental IT for managing technology-related security risks. The author argues that using these pre-vetted services saves members time on vendor interviews and negotiation while providing favorable pricing that individual practices could not achieve on their own.

How Do I Set Up New Hires For Long-Term Success?, Jodi Schafer Sphr, Shrm-Scp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

HR expert Jodi Schafer addresses the common challenge of employee retention through effective onboarding strategies. She clarifies that onboarding is a long-term process of integration and belonging, distinct from simple orientation. The article provides practical tips for reducing new-hire anxiety, such as sharing first-day agendas and assigning mentors. Schafer emphasizes the importance of pacing training, setting clear performance expectations, and establishing ongoing feedback loops during the first few weeks. By measuring metrics like time to proficiency, practices can refine their integration processes to build a stable and committed workforce.

Endorsed Programs News: Mda Insurance Receives High Honors, Reva Darling

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This report covers updates on MDA-endorsed programs designed to provide value and operational support to members. It announces that MDA Insurance has won the 2025 "State Administrator of the Year" award for its professional liability programs. The document also promotes the environmental benefits of recycling dental scrap metal through D-MMEX Easyrefine and introduces the cost-saving benefits of MEDVA virtual assistants for administrative tasks. Additionally, it advertises upcoming Medicare educational seminars to help member dentists and their staff navigate retirement planning and health insurance transitions effectively.

Post-Covid Update: Magic Can Still Happen, Michelle C. Dziurgot

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

In this editorial, Dr. Michelle Dziurgot addresses the persistent staffing shortages in dentistry six years after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. She shares personal insights on managing a leaner practice by utilizing virtual assistants, cross-training existing staff, and emphasizing the "TEAM" philosophy—Trust, Education, Accountability, and Magic. Dziurgot discusses the transition to new practice models and the importance of patient communication during times of limited personnel. Ultimately, the piece encourages practice owners to find innovative ways to maintain high standards of care and team morale despite a difficult labor market.

Managing Oro-Antral Communications After Tooth Extractions: A Guide For General Dentists, Ross Brockman Dmd, Md, G. E. Ghali Dds, Md

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This clinical feature provides general dentists with a detailed guide on managing oro-antral communications (OACs) resulting from tooth extractions. It distinguishes between acute OACs and chronic oro-antral fistulas (OAFs), identifying anatomical and surgical risk factors. The authors outline conservative management strategies for small communications, including sinus precautions and pharmacotherapy, as well as surgical techniques like the buccal advancement flap for larger defects. The article concludes with specific criteria for specialist referral, ensuring that dentists can optimize patient outcomes and prevent long-term complications such as chronic sinusitis.

Dr. Deb Peters: Opening Doors As The Ada’S New Speaker, Debra Peters, Christopher J. Smiley

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This interview profiles Dr. Deb Peters, the first female speaker of the ADA House of Delegates. Dr. Peters shares her vision for making the ADA more accessible, transparent, and responsive to its members. She discusses her leadership philosophy, emphasizing listening and mentorship, and explains how effective governance can lead to significant real-world impacts, such as the removal of taxes on dental prosthetics. Dr. Peters also outlines her goals for modernizing the House of Delegates process, including the creation of a "Resolution Dashboard" to help members track policy progress.

Endorsed Programs News, Reva Darling

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This section provides updates on services and resources endorsed by the MDA to help members succeed in practice. It covers critical compliance topics like OSHA employee alarm standards and emergency evacuation procedures. Financial advice is offered for associates looking to purchase a practice, focusing on credit scores and debt management. Additionally, it promotes tools for increasing revenue through PPO negotiation and lowering insurance costs via risk management training. The source also mentions the availability of free, confidential counseling through the MDA Member Assistance Program.

J Mich Dent Assoc March 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+ members. It remains the main publication reaching Michigan dentists and is available worldwide through ADA Commons.

The March 2026 (Volume 108, No. 3) issue of the Journal is published in a digital format to provide updates and insights for Michigan's oral health community and MDA members. Print editions occur every other month beginning with January.

This issue includes feature articles on Most-Asked Dental Benefit Questions, an interview with ADA Speaker Dr. Deb Peters, …

News You Need, David Foe

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This comprehensive news section covers a wide range of association updates, including previews of the 2026 Annual Session and the Mission of Mercy volunteer event. It provides critical "Dental Benefit Briefs" regarding claims appeals, CMS rule changes for prior authorization, and code deletions affecting reimbursement. The source also features a Q&A with the new ADA 9th District Trustee and highlights new guidelines for using generative AI in dental journalism. Additionally, it reports on community grants and charitable programs like Livingston District’s "Gold for Food".

What Ce Do I Need To Take To Renew My Dea License?, Rachel Sinacola Dds, Ms

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This resource provides practical answers to member questions about licensure and association events. It explains the new DEA requirement for a one-time eight-hour training on substance use disorders and highlights available MDA courses that fulfill this mandate. The source also details significant changes to the MDA Annual Session registration process, which now uses a simplified pass system rather than individual course registration. Additionally, it offers guidance on renewing dental licenses through the MiPLUS platform and downloading the MDA member logo.

Where Can I Get Information About Osha And Miosha Regs?, Rachel Sinacola Dds, Ms, Mda Membership Department Staff

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This question and answer column serves as a resource for dental practice management, directing members to information on OSHA and MIOSHA regulations, bloodborne pathogens, and needlestick protocols. It promotes the Donated Dental Services (DDS) program, highlighting CE opportunities and donated lab work. The source also provides details on the Certified Dental Business Professional (CDBP) credential and explains membership dues assistance programs, such as waivers and payment plans.

How Do I Avoid Burning Out My Staff?, Jodi Schafer Sphr, Shrm-Scp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This column details the financial advantages of utilizing MDA-endorsed vendors to improve practice profitability. It explains the vetting process performed by volunteers to ensure vendors offer meaningful discounts and vetted solutions. The source highlights specific services, such as PPO fee negotiation, dental marketing, and insurance verifications, which can save a practice over $58,000 annually. By leveraging collective bargaining, members gain access to revenue-boosting solutions without exhaustive trial-and-error searching.

Mastering The First Year Of Ownership, Amrita Patel Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This column provides a reflective look at the first year of dental practice ownership, describing it as a mix of exhilaration and pressure. It highlights the importance of transitioning from a clinical mindset to one focused on financial clarity, cash flow variability, and team dynamics. The author discusses the necessity of developing efficient systems to resolve bottlenecks and understanding the patient base on a deeper level. The piece emphasizes that leadership confidence grows through action and adjustment.

Endorsed Programs News, Reva Darling

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This Endorsed news section outlines several financial and operational resources endorsed by the MDA to support dental practices. It highlights practice financing through Bank of America, significant savings on credit card processing with Best Card, and AI-driven marketing trends via ProSites Additionally, the news features the MDA Medicare Educational Seminar and wealth management services offered by DBS Investment Advisers. These programs are designed to enhance practice efficiency and provide professional guidance for dentists at all career stages.

News You Need, David Foe

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This news update summarizes MDA Board of Trustees activities, including the 2026 budget approval and legislative advocacy for licensure reform and Social Security privacy. It promotes National Children’s Dental Health Month and the biennial Mission of Mercy event. The news covers the appointment of a new Chief Experience Officer, the launch of the MDA Matters video podcast, and announcements for scholarships and award-winners.

How Much Could You Save Using Mda Services Endorsed Vendors?, Reva Darling

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This column details the financial advantages of utilizing MDA-endorsed vendors to improve practice profitability. It explains the vetting process performed by volunteers to ensure vendors offer meaningful discounts and vetted solutions. The source highlights specific services, such as PPO fee negotiation, dental marketing, and insurance verifications, which can save a practice over $58,000 annually. By leveraging collective bargaining, members gain access to revenue-boosting solutions without exhaustive trial-and-error searching.

J Mich Dent Assoc August 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 August issue marks the end of digital only publishing, as the MDA announced it will provide members a bimonthly print issue along with monthly digital distribution. This issue includes:

• A cover feature on the impact on the dental community of the recently adopted Big Beautiful Bill federal budget
• Mandibular Lingual Concavity Evaluation Using CBCT
• A reprinted clinical feature from New York on …

Stress And Burnout: Is There A ‘Happily Ever After’?, Margaret S. Gingrich D.D.S.

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Executive Summary Dental professionals experience significant stress and burnout due to high patient expectations, challenging patients, employee management issues, and insurance complexities. Dr. Margaret Gingrich outlines Christina Maslach's six stages of burnout, from the honeymoon phase to reduced personal accomplishment. Recovery requires intentional rest following the "rule of 42" - dedicating 42% of daily time to various forms of rest, including physical, emotional, sensory, mental, spiritual, social, and creative restoration. Key strategies involve setting boundaries, saying no, taking breaks, seeking social support, and, when necessary, terminating problematic patient relationships. The Michigan Dental Association and American Dental Association provide wellness resources, …

J Mich Dent Assoc June 2025

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association is the leading monthly digital publication serving Michigan’s oral health community and the MDA’s 6,200+ members. Distributed globally through the searchable ADA Commons publishing platform, it is the primary channel for news, clinical insights, and professional resources for Michigan dentists.

June Issue Highlights:

• Cover Feature: An in-depth report on the MDA’s advocacy efforts beyond insurance reimbursement, highlighting recent legislative wins and member services that support practice profitability and success.
• Workforce Well-being: A special feature on the stages of stress and burnout, with strategies and resources to support mental health and resilience.
• Compliance Update: …

Dental Utilization Pre- And Post-Covid-19 Pandemic Shutdown Across Different Birth Cohorts, Anirudh Agaram, Jeff Johnston Dds, Ms, Stephen A. Eklund Drph, Dds, Mhsa

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Given the disruptions to dental practice because of COVID-19 in 2020, the question arose as to how dental patients would return to dental care in the following years, and if treatment patterns would be different, or would return to the previous patterns. Further, it was desired to understand whether patients of different ages would return to dental practices and use dental services differently. In order to assess these questions, utilization patterns among commercial enrollees within Delta Dental of Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana were explored. The analysis, spanning from 2018 to 2023, focused on diagnostic, preventative, and restorative procedures across diverse …

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 …

J Mich Dent Assoc March 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. This month’s issue offers an insightful article on general-purpose AI to boost creativity and efficiency in dental practice. Helpful tips on protecting your reputation are provided in an article on Myths, Tips, and Tricks to manage online reviews. Readers then learn that ADA Commons provides much more than access to current and past articles and issues of the Journal of the Michigan Dental …

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 …

J Mich Dent Assoc December 2024

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 December issue includes a timely cover feature on evidence supporting community water fluoridation, a clinical feature answering questions on patient dental records, a guest editorial on leadership by former MDA Journal Editor Dr. Bill Chase, and a Back Page article on how a personal touch makes a difference. We also provide our annual 2024 Author/Title Index and regular departments: The New Professional, …