Dental Public Health and Education Commons^™

Governmental Affairs Update, Neema Katibai Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The article presents the American Dental Association's federal advocacy achievements during the first half of the 118th Congress. The ADA has made significant strides in influencing policy and regulations across various categories, including workforce issues, dental insurance reform, access to care, student loan debt, Medicaid, practice management, veterans' affairs, health information technology, and public health. Their efforts span from urging legislative action to collaborating with federal agencies and Congress members. These accomplishments showcase the ADA's commitment to advancing dental profession interests nationally.

Washington’S Ride Program: A Model Providing Rural Practitioners, Mary K. Smith Dds, Mba

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The University of Washington School of Dentistry Regional Initiatives in Dental Education (RIDE) program is an award-winning dental education model that trains dentists to practice in rural and underserved areas. Its first cohort of students graduated in 2012. To date, there have been 96 graduates. More than 80% of RIDE graduates in practice are in rural and underserved areas, including those seeking specialty training. RIDE is successful because it collaborates with multiple universities, community health centers, local dental associations, and community leaders in the area where the students are located.

Team Ce Will Make Your Practice Soar, Michelle C. Dziurgot Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

In "Team CE Will Make Your Practice Soar," Michelle C. Dziurgot, DDS, emphasizes the crucial role of education and support in dental practice success. Drawing on personal experiences, Dziurgot underscores the significance of ongoing learning for both new hires and existing team members. She highlights opportunities for continuing education, such as the Michigan Dental Association Annual Session, and encourages investment in training for the entire dental team. By providing education and support akin to her own upbringing, Dziurgot asserts that practices can thrive and overcome challenges, ultimately achieving greater heights of success.

Staff Matters: How To Address Derogatory Comments Among Staff Members, Jodi Schafer Sphr, Shrm-Scp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Addressing derogatory comments among staff members requires a systematic approach. Document the incident, meet individually with each employee, and assess their reactions. Responses may vary from denial to remorse. Tailor disciplinary action based on their accountability and alignment with office values. Consider potential legal ramifications and seek HR or legal guidance if needed. Regardless, swift action is essential to maintain a respectful workplace environment.

Special Insert: Guideline For Delegation Of Duties For Allied Dental Personnel In Michigan, David Foe Ma

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Dental assistants, registered dental assistants, and registered dental hygienists have specific duties they can perform for patients as outlined by the Michigan Public Health Code and the Michigan Board of Dentistry General Rules. Permitted delegated services vary based on a team member’s level of training, licensure, and available supervision by a licensed dentist.

The Journal of Michigan Dental Association provides this pullout insert to guide the dental team. This easy-to-read chart quickly identifies recent changes to the duties each dental auxiliary can legally perform.

News You Need, David Foe Ma

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The 2024 MDA Annual Session promises a range of valuable events and courses, including a free keynote by Joe Johnson, PhD, addressing career fulfillment. Additional highlights include the Gordon Christensen session, new dentist track, leadership courses, and an expansive exhibit hall. Meanwhile, the MDA House of Delegates Nominating Committee announced its candidate slate for the upcoming administrative year. The MDA also offers a free webinar on suicide prevention and celebrates communities awarded for water fluoridation quality. Additionally, ADA news covers a clinical guideline on managing dental pain, the ADA Academy's teaching program, and World Oral Health Day initiatives. Lastly, local …

Uda To Rda: A Pathway To Greater Success, Margaret Gingrich Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

UDA to RDA: A Pathway to Greater Success" by Margaret Gingrich, DDS, explores the advantages of transitioning unlicensed dental auxiliaries (UDAs) to registered dental assistants (RDAs). The article emphasizes the benefits for both practitioners and staff, citing increased efficiency, improved patient care, and expanded practice capabilities. Dr. Gingrich shares personal experiences from her rural practice, highlighting the challenges of workforce shortages and the strategic adoption of RDAs to address these issues. She outlines a pathway for UDAs to attain RDA status through targeted training programs and contractual agreements, enhancing career satisfaction and practice productivity. The article underscores the importance of …

The Effect Of Die Material On The Crown Fracture Strength Of Zirconia Crowns, Akram Sayed Ahmed, Nathaniel C. Lawson, Chin-Chuan Fu, Pranit V. Bora, Edwin Kee, Amir H. Nejat

School of Dentistry Faculty Publications

BACKGROUND: Determination of the eligibility of several tooth analog materials for use in crown fracture testing. METHODS: A standardized premolar crown preparation was replicated into three types of resin dies (C&B, low modulus 3D printed resin; OnX, high modulus 3D printed resin composite; and highest modulus milled resin composite). 0.8 mm zirconia crowns were bonded to the dies and the maximum fracture load of the crowns was tested. Twelve extracted human premolars were prepared to a standardized crown preparation, and duplicate dies of the prepared teeth were 3D printed out of C&B. Zirconia crowns were bonded to both the dies …

Tobacco And Covid-19, Palak Srivastava, Palak Srivastava

Annual Research Symposium

The relationship between tobacco use and COVID-19 has been a subject of ongoing research. Evidence suggests that tobacco may contribute to an increased susceptibility to respiratory infections, potentially exacerbating the severity of COVID-19 symptoms.

Parental Awareness, Knowledge, And Attitude Towards Nitrous Oxide Sedation And Protective Stabilization In Children Of North Kerala: A Questionnaire Based Study, Meera A K

Annual Research Symposium

To assess the Parental awareness, knowledge and attitude in North Kerala population about Conscious sedation and protective stabilization as behaviour management techniques during dental treatment.

Double-Blinded Randomized Control Trial Investigating The Efficacy Of Probiotic Mouth Rinse In Enhancing Oral Health, Sudeep C B Prof. Dr., Sunil P M Prof. Dr.

Annual Research Symposium

The efficacy of probiotic mouth rinse in enhancing oral health was investigated through a double-blinded randomized controlled trial involving 45 children aged 12 to 15 over a two-week period. Comparing probiotic mouth rinse, chlorhexidine mouth rinse, and a control group, plaque and gingival accumulation were assessed using established indices. Results indicated both probiotic and chlorhexidine groups exhibited reduced plaque compared to the control, with the probiotic group showing superior reduction in gingival inflammation. These findings suggest the potential of probiotic mouth rinse in improving oral hygiene and overall oral health.

Evaluating The Oral Health-Related Quality Of Life Among Dental Patients In South India - A Descriptive Study, Dheekshitha P K, Sudeep C B Dr., Sunil P M Dr., Suji M Dr.

Annual Research Symposium

This study aims to evaluate the oral health-related quality of life among dental patients in South India.

Exploring The Interplay Between Alzheimer's Disease And Periodontitis: Insights From Clinical Data And Inflammatory Biomarkers, Sandra Arun

Annual Research Symposium

Alzheimer's disease, a complex neurodegenerative disorder marked by cognitive decline, may have a intriguing link with periodontitis—a chronic inflammatory oral condition. This study investigates the literature evidence regarding the association between Alzheimer's disease and periodontitis. Our research aims to determine if individuals with periodontitis face an elevated risk of Alzheimer's and if shared inflammatory pathways underlie this association.

Overlooked Dental Disease In Cbct Imaging And The Impact Of Oral Radiologist Interpretation, Jared Fausnaught

Annual Research Symposium

This study aims to underscore the necessity for a comprehensive interpretation of Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) volume images obtained by dentists. The research demonstrates and quantifies potentially overlooked dental pathology, categorizing incidental findings into three groups: 1) requiring some form of treatment or follow-up, 2) necessitating follow-up (monitoring) only, and 3) demanding no further treatment or follow-up.

Advocacy Spotlight: 2024 Regulatory Reminders, Neema Katibai Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The Advocacy Spotlight column delves into critical regulatory reminders for dentists in 2024, emphasizing compliance challenges and potential disruptions to practice. Key areas covered include licensing, amalgam separator renewal, electronic prescribing, and Beneficial Ownership Information reporting. The article stresses the importance of staying informed about evolving regulations to ensure seamless practice operations.

Dentistry And The Law: When Must A Data Breach Be Reported?, Dan Schulte Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This dentistry and the law column addresses the necessity of reporting a potential HIPAA data breach involving missing patient records. The author explains the criteria outlined in the HIPAA Breach Notification Rule and emphasizes the importance of a thorough risk assessment. The dentist must evaluate the nature of the protected health information and whether an unauthorized person acquired it. The article details the steps for reporting, including individual notices to affected patients and the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, with distinctions based on the number of individuals affected.

Mda Foundation: What A Difference A Smile Makes, Anne Berquist

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The 2023 round of scholarships awarded by the MDA Foundation totaled $31,000, more than twice the amount awarded in 2022. As a recipient of the MDA Foundation's Dr. George L. Bletsas Scholarship, Maya Scott, now a dental student, is dedicated to advocating for underserved minorities. Scott's journey into dentistry was shaped by her personal experiences with dental care and her desire to address health disparities. Growing up in challenging circumstances, orthodontic treatment transformed her smile and ignited her interest in dentistry. Her scholarship facilitates participation in dental missions and eases living expenses. With aspirations for general dentistry in underserved areas, …

The Mda Member Assistance Program: Real Help When You Need It, Lisa Knowles Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This health and well-being feature focuses on the MDA Member Assistance Program, an invaluable resource for dentists navigating the myriad challenges of professional and personal life. The author shares personal experiences and testimonials, highlighting the diverse benefits offered by the program, from mental health counseling to work-life resources. The article emphasizes the program's accessibility, confidentiality, and the wide range of topics it addresses, making it a crucial tool for dentists seeking support and guidance.

We’Re In This Together, So Be The Best Human You Can Be, Michelle C. Dziurgot Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The editorial reflects on the shared human experiences that bind us together, using a travel delay as a backdrop. The author highlights personal growth during a trip to Europe and emphasizes the importance of common bonds among people, whether through travel, education, or shared moments. The narrative urges readers to step out of their comfort zones and be compassionate, contributing to a happier and more connected world.

Staff Matters: Do I Really Need An Employee Handbook?, Jodi Schafer Sphr, Shrm-Scp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article underscores the importance of having an employee handbook for even small practices. It emphasizes the handbook as a crucial tool for communicating expectations, providing a defense against employment claims, and ensuring legal compliance. The author advises on essential policies related to legal requirements, "At-Will" status, conduct, compensation, benefits, communication, attendance, and discipline. The article stresses the significance of well-crafted policies to avoid confusion and legal liabilities, recommending professional review before implementation.