ViewPoint
MyView
OMG: What is EBD?
February 6, 2012
John Thompson, D.M.D.
Here we go again. The ADA has another set of acronyms that are supposedly meaningful to a practicing dentist. For some reason, the ADA keeps sending me surveys to take online. I think I have been identified as obsessive-compulsive (OCD) and they know I will most likely respond to the survey if it is not too long. Yesterday I received an email requesting that I complete an online survey on “evidence-based dentistry.”
A letter from a new dentist
January 16, 2012
Jim Gleason, D.D.S.
Our medical colleagues are in trouble. It is no secret that ever since the introduction of health maintenance organizations in the 1960s, physicians have been ceding control of their profession to forces outside of it. Be it insurance companies or government, the people making decisions that affect their profession are seldom the doctors themselves or the American Medical Association.
Be proactive: Do your part to protect oral health by advocating water fluoridation
January 2, 2012
Leon Stanislav, D.D.S.
Great strides have been made over the last several decades to increase community water fluoridation (CWF) nationwide. The goal of Healthy People 2010 was 75 percent. Throughout the nation, we are nearly 73 percent today.
Off-road dentist
November 21, 2011
DezBaa Damon, D.M.D.
The Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corp. is a tribal organization authorized by the Indian Health Service to provide health care to Alaska Natives and Native Americans in rural communities of southwest Alaska. Working as a dentist for the YKHC does not only involve clinical work in Bethel but across the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta. Many times it is the adventure of traveling to the various villages that draws each of us providers to this area.
A time to be thankful for all that we have
November 7, 2011
Richard A. Mufson, D.D.S.
One thing I have found very interesting through the years is the response I most often get upon running into other dental friends at meetings, or when speaking by phone, and asking the simple, basic, human question, “So, how are you?”
Insuring your burgers ... and fries
October 17, 2011
Jeffrey Parrish, D.D.S.
I recently had the opportunity to have lunch in a Five Guys Burger and Fries. For those of you unfamiliar with this chain, as there are only a handful in Washington, it is Barack Obama, POTUS’ favorite DC burger joint when his wife lets him out of the (White) House … quietly so as not to disrupt her anti-obesity campaign. It’s almost as good as In-and-Out so you might want to try one. In a Five Guys, the “line” that directs you from ordering to pick-up is defined by sacks and sacks of potatoes that will later be used in their fries. Interestingly, all the sacks are from the same supplier.
What's in it for me?
October 3, 2011
Debbie W. Preece
I have been involved in dentistry alongside my husband, Terry, for 34 years. Just before our marriage 36 years ago, I graduated with a bachelor of science degree in computer programming and was employed as a programmer/systems analyst for years. Many of your spouses also have their own careers, but it is still possible to be an active Alliance member serving the dental profession and the community.
Why ethics?
September 19, 2011
Richard L. Brown Jr., D.D.S.
In our last reporting cycle, the Board of Dentistry made it a requirement for dental professionals to have an ethics class. “What the heck?” was my first reaction—“I don’t need a class in ethics.”
LOL: Getting older or getting better?
September 5, 2011
Bruce R. Terry, D.M.D.
I don’t remember getting old. Maybe that’s the first sign of old age. This year marks two important milestones in my life. In January I turned 50. No need to congratulate me, as I fully expected to reach this age and beyond. In May I celebrated my 25th class reunion at the Kornberg School of Dentistry, formerly known as “Temple.” Also not a surprise, as I love the science of the teeth and gums!
Loving the profession: Dispelling misconceptions—one patient at a time
August 1, 2011
Kallie Law
One of the most unexpected epiphanies I have had since matriculating to dental school is how many people truly dislike the profession of dentistry. Call me naïve or just blessed, but I grew up with loving parents who took me to the dentist on a regular basis and encouraged me to brush and floss. Consequently, I loved going to the dentist and I thought they did, too. Cue reality. Turns out, my mom is the world’s worst patient, and while she likes our dentist as a person, she absolutely despises “going to the dentist.”
‘It was the best of times, it was the worst of times'
June 20, 2011
David Rothman, D.D.S.
So goes the opening sentence of Charles Dickens’ epic novel, “A Tale of Two Cities,” which as historical fiction chronicles the years leading up to the French Revolution and parallels political and economic conditions in France with those in England. Our current situation may certainly fit the opening line of the opus depending on where you sit on the health care reform issue. Though the onset of the French Revolution may have little to do with the health care revolution that will be taking place (we don’t have a choice as to if, only perhaps how and when), we should be taking an active and participatory role in the shaping of the policy of care for oral health.
Hard to say goodbye
May 16, 2011
Stuart L. Segelnick, D.D.S.
Ten years ago a wonderful patient entered my practice. What I remember of that encounter is very little. She was 73 years old back then, and her hair was graying. She spoke in very gentle tones and she initially struck me as educated and kind. Although she reminded me in every way of my grandma, in reality she was probably the grandmother anyone would ever hope to have.
Junk science
May 2, 2011
Jonathan Dubin, D.M.D.
I should be dead. I went swimming within an hour of eating a meal. Surely, I should have cramped up and sunk to the bottom of the pool.
Inside Oklahoma’s Mission of Mercy
April 18, 2011
Raymond Cohlmia, D.D.S.
Tears of ... It’s 12:45 a.m. Friday morning and the alarm clock is going off. Before getting up, I stare at the ceiling and think about the long day in front of me. Inside, my bed is warm and comfortable, my kids are upstairs sound asleep, and my wife is right beside me. Outside, some of Oklahoma’s coldest weather on record awaits. Dressed and in the car, the temperature readout on my dashboard has dropped to a bone-chilling 11 degrees. As I head downtown to the Cox Convention Center, I’m thinking, “Why in the world did I volunteer for this?” But the question’s rhetorical. Over the next two days, I (and so many others) will get told literally hundreds of times why we did. It’s OkMOM 2011.
The nuts & bolts of evidence-based dentistry
March 21, 2011
Stacey Van Scoyoc, D.D.S.
After attending the 2010 ADA Evidence-Based Dentistry Champions Conference, I told my mother about how much I enjoyed the presentations, meeting new people and watching the “light bulb” transformation of dentists, hygienists and educators as they learned new skills. She looked at me with a pained eye and asked, “Don’t all dentists and medical doctors practice evidence-based dentistry or medicine?” The fact that she is battling ovarian cancer was certainly on her mind, with the hope that she was getting the best care based on the latest research applied to her case.
Back to the beach
February 21, 2011
Matthew J. Messina, D.D.S.
I'm leaving tomorrow for vacation. I'm excited, even though I am facing a 12-hour drive with the family to the beach in South Carolina. Excluding CE or meetings, this will be the first time out of the office for me in 13 months. That's far too long, and it was beginning to dull my edge. I was beginning to yearn for someplace to go to retreat and think, and it had me reading too much on the Internet.
Don’t underestimate the value of dignity
February 7, 2011
Walter F. Lamacki, D.D.S.
As I have told many colleagues to the point of exasperating tedium, I treat the elderly in retirement communities.
What is poor, anyway?
January 17, 2011
Mary Jennings, D.D.S.
We have all been watching adult dental Medicaid die a lingering death for many years. In this tough economy it looks like it is a goner … again. As we have been discussing access it has amazed me how everyone has a different perception of what poor actually is. Even the poor people I know have a different definition of poor than I would think.
You might be right
January 3, 2011
Joseph Tomlinson, D.M.D.
One of the important benefits of attending organized dental meetings is the opportunity to visit and share good times with colleagues and friends—with the occasional result of being exposed to a totally new and unexpected helpful idea. One such lesson I learned occurred while attending an ADA meeting with my wife, Dot, in Washington, D.C., several years ago. We had gone to the meeting for the purpose of my attending a few continuing education courses, and to balance that out with a tour of the city.
Celebrating 25 years of Donated Dental Services
December 13, 2010
Larry Coffee, D.D.S.
Not long ago, a 36-year-old woman named Deena was referred to Donated Dental Services for care. A very brave young woman who had suffered from renal failure since age 19, she received dialysis three times a week and was ruled ineligible for a kidney transplant due to her severe dental disease. Recently, after the help of two New Hampshire DDS volunteers, a general practitioner and an oral surgeon, Deena was able to write to us about the care she received.
Social media: Technology changes the way we communicate
November 15, 2010
Jordan L. Schweitzer, D.D.S.
In my last editorial, I talked about some ways that young dentists could benefit from the experience of older colleagues. Now, I'd like to look at a realm in which younger dentists often have a natural advantage: communication technology.
Mentoring: Someone to watch over you
November 1, 2010
Zachary F. Carden Jr., D.D.S.
Don’t look now, but someone may be watching you. I hope they are—and I hope you are encouraging it.
I’m in a hurry!
October 18, 2010
John Thompson, D.M.D.
The Washington, D.C. Metro station was cold on a January morning in 2007. A man with a violin played six Bach pieces over a 45-minute period and during that time, approximately 2,000 people passed through the station, most on their way to work. It was three minutes before anyone noticed the musician, and one man slowed his pace, stopped for a few seconds and then resumed his schedule. It was four minutes before the violinist received his first dollar when a woman threw the money at the hat and continued to walk.
Golden years
September 20, 2010
Walter F. Lamacki, D.D.S.
Dr. Clifton Dummett, an honorary Chicago Dental Society member, is a nonagenarian. He has written more than a score of books on dental history, especially the African-American experience. At age 28 he was selected dean of the Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry.
The doctor won't see you now
September 6, 2010
Jonathan Shenkin, D.D.S.
You don't have a dime to your name, or maybe you need to hold onto the money in your pocket to buy heating fuel, a meal or something of great importance in your life. A shooting pain hits your appendix but you hold out as long as you can until you can't walk. You can't call your physician because you can't afford one and you don’t have insurance, so you finally head to your local emergency room.
Ladies in attendance
August 16, 2010
Kerry K. Carney, D.D.S.
Someone sent me a YouTube link to a film from pre-1906 earthquake San Francisco. The camera was secured to the front of a streetcar traveling down Market Street. It is a long, real-time trip down the thoroughfare to the turnaround at the Ferry Building. I have watched it several times. The feeling of being there is uncanny.
Helping the people of Haiti
July 12, 2010
Mike Karr, D.D.S.
Having spent close to 20 years in Haiti, serving the population both dentally and emotionally, you can imagine the shock and depression that overcame me when I heard the news of the earthquake. My mind started seeing imaginary pictures of horrible destruction; but then I, like most all of us here in the U.S., thought maybe it was just media hyping up the destruction. Then I saw the pictures a few days later, and it was worse than I pictured.
Restoring MG roadsters and teeth
June 7, 2010
Robert Brunker, D.D.S.
I had a 1967 MG Midget that I restored mechanically, but it had a couple of dings here and there, only fair paint and no rust. I enjoyed driving the car. You could feel the road, and you easily got the "thrill" of speed while, in reality, not going very fast. It seemed that it had some minor mechanical problems every 300 to 500 miles. MG owners will understand. Tiring of the constant maintenance, I sold it to a good friend of mine who admired the car.
It's time to help a child
May 17, 2010
Robert S. Roda, D.D.S.
Childhood is an interesting time in our lives. While we all have had different experiences growing up and many of them are lost to fading memory, some things stand out in my memories.
Volunteerism is soul food
May 03, 2010
Kurt Ferré, D.D.S.
I graduated from Northwestern University Dental School in 1976. When my daughters were younger, I volunteered in their classroom for a couple of hours on a near-weekly basis, and I was a volunteer soccer coach for 12 years. Yet, it wasn't until 1999 that I did my first volunteer dental work. Up to that point in time, I wanted to be away from dentistry on my day off during the week.
Taking over the dialogue
April 19, 2010
Thomas P. Conaty, D.D.S.
I recently read "A History of Minnesota's Dental Therapist Legislation," written by the Minnesota Dental Association. This "history" lists 14 procedures that a dental therapist may perform per the state’s statutes. The scope of practice includes cavity preparation, restoration of primary and permanent teeth, pulpotomies and extractions of primary teeth.
More dentists needed?
April 05, 2010
R. Quinn Dufurrena, D.D.S.
Some policymakers have stated that access to care in the rural areas would greatly improve if we just added more dentists to the workforce.
To evaluate that philosophy, let’s explore some information relevant to Idaho.
Value: What does it all mean?
March 15, 2010
Susan M. Long, D.D.S.
In October 2009, a mentally disabled patient in Northern Michigan with multiple dental infections passed away. The patient had dental treatment planned but required that dental treatment in a hospital setting. In an unfortunate set of several circumstances that involved Medicaid cuts in dental coverage, the patient was unable to receive the dental treatment she needed in a timely manner. It has been stated in the press regarding this event that this led to her death. Her death from a dental infection has become a topic of discussion in the dental community.
Family
March 01, 2010
Kenneth D. Jones Jr., D.D.S., J.D.
Well, it's a few months down the road and I've learned more than a few things since last October's prostate cancer diagnosis. Some of those lessons are about cancer and its treatment, some are about me and some are about us.
Letters to the Editor
Well done
February 6, 2012
By Victor P. Bradford, D.M.D.
I have been an ADA member for over 25 years and just wanted to compliment you for the article in the Jan. 2 ADA News, "Good Samaritan Rewarded With New Smile." This was a wonderful story and I hope you can pass on my respect and thanks to Drs. Xhelo and Mazar Shuaipaj for their work with Wayne Sabaj's dentition.
Valued team
February 6, 2012
By H. Martin Deranian, D.D.S.
Thank you for the article in the Dec. 12 ADA News on Rosalyn Kleiman ("After 43 Years, a Heartfelt Goodbye"). Such unusual dedication deserves recognition and remembrance.
Legal?
February 6, 2012
By Thomas Piazza, D.D.S.
Once again, Delta Dental punishes dentists and patients for going to an out of network provider ("Illinois Delays Dental Claims," Nov. 7 ADA News). The questions are: (1) Is this legal? (2) Is Delta Dental a dental maintenance organization or preferred dentist program?
Mask mistake
February 6, 2012
By Stephen K. Harrel, D.D.S.
I am writing concerning the photo collage on the front page of the Dec. 12 ADA News ("Advocacy Report 2011"). I am concerned that the largest photo shows a "dentist" wearing a mask in a completely incorrect manner; i.e., the upper edge of the mask is below the nose. A dental student or dental school employee wearing their mask in this manner would be reprimanded for this flagrant disregard of established infection control (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Occupational Safety and Health Administration) recommendations.
DEA number
January 16, 2012
James A. Ferguson, D.D.S.
I certainly concur with Dr. Jim Slattery’s remarks regarding DEA fees (“Letters,” Nov. 7 ADA News).
Incentivize dentists
January 16, 2012
Victoria Rinando, D.D.S.
Every time I pick up the latest dental news publication, I read the debates about the possible addition of a “new dental team member.” For some of the population it may be due to location, for others appointment availability, and even more the issue is financial. There will always and forever been a battle to create better access to health care.
Take leadership role
January 16, 2012
Edward Schaaf, D.D.S.
I have been a dentist for 54 years, and during that time I have served on the Access to Care Committee for the Chicago Dental Society and as dental director of the Free People’s Clinic at St. Basil’s.
What about new grads?
January 16, 2012
Pedro Parente, Pharm.D., D.M.D.
It continues to amaze me that the stakeholders and proponents of the midlevel provider miss the fact there are many recent graduates that are either unemployed or underemployed. These dentists are barely able to pay off their student loans, yet the former believe flooding a saturated dental market with another provider will solve the access to care issue.
Amalgam separators
January 2, 2012
Joseph D. Bedich, D.D.S.
With amalgam separators soon becoming a mandatory requirement in all dental offices in the U.S., I have to question how much money is being made off dentists (“PPR Forum Highlights Amalgam Separators,” Nov. 7 ADA News).
Practice valuation
January 2, 2012
Gary Pape, D.D.S.
There are many ways to assess a dental practice. Typically when a dentist seeks consultation with a practice management expert(s), the dentist is asked to furnish a significant amount of data related to financial factors.
On Delta
January 2, 2012
Jon D. Williamson, D.D.S.
Dr. David Lurye’s letter in the Sept. 5 ADA News is a spot-on assessment of the Frankenstein’s monster that is Delta Dental. Originally spawned in 1955 by the California Dental Association as the California Dental Service, the country’s first dental insurance plan, it has morphed into a bully in every sense of the word.
CODA
November 21, 2011
John F. Hasler, D.D.S.
Recent letters to the ADA News about the oversight and role of the Commission on Dental Accreditation point out the sometimes divergent views among the communities of interest.
New team member?
November 21, 2011
Daniel N. Minnis, D.D.S.
In 1906, Dr. Albert Fones trained the first dental hygienist despite opposition from colleagues. It took another 45 years before the ADA Council on Dental Education worked with other organizations to establish accreditation standards. Dr. Fones realized in 1906 that a dental hygienist, the first midlevel provider, could work with the dental team and provide quality care coupled with tremendous prevention education. Where would we be without the registered dental hygienist today?
DEA license fees
November 7, 2011
Jim Slattery, D.D.S.
I began my practice in 1974 and am enclosing copies of my old DEA licenses from 1987 and 2003.
Dr. Dummett
November 7, 2011
Michael Okuji, D.D.S.
With the passing of Clifton Orrin Dummett on Sept. 7 at the age 92, California and the nation lost a beacon who showed us the way for seven decades. While it is often mentioned that he is the youngest person appointed dean of a dental school, it’s more telling that he is also the youngest dean to be fired.
Better than ever
October 17, 2011
David G. Harris, D.D.S.
This is a letter to Dr. Bruce Terry, author of “LOL: Getting Older or Getting Better?” (Sept. 5 ADA News).
CODA & therapists
October 17, 2011
Frank Catalanotto, D.M.D.
The misstatement of facts in Dr. Winston R. Battarbee’s letter to the editor (Sept. 19 ADA News) cannot go unanswered.
Substandard?
October 17, 2011
William Hillmann Jr., D.M.D.
Our patients need ADA help. If a patient needs No. 30 extracted and No. 29 and No. 31 are virgin teeth, an implant is the only logical solution, but the insurance company will not cover implants. They will cover a bridge. I think they should be required to cover at least the amount they would normally pay for a bridge.
Core issues
October 3, 2011
Ronald Venezie, D.D.S.
I was very pleased to read the Sept. 5 ADA News articles on dental education and dental accreditation (“An In-Depth Look at Dental Education,” “How CODA Works: Federal Recognition Requires Independent Decision-Making”).
Student debt
October 3, 2011
Sophia Saeed, D.M.D.
I was happy to see “An In-Depth Look at Dental Education” on the front page of the Sept. 5 ADA News. The increased burden of debt hindering the likelihood of dentists to participate in charitable work is an important issue in the access to care discussion. We must also, however, examine the effect on the increased indebtedness on graduates’ ability to become future dental educators.
Ballpark
September 19, 2011
Sigurds O. Krolls, D.D.S.
Looked in amazement at the photograph of the enthusiastic crowd in the Red Sox’s Single-A affiliate ballpark flossing their teeth (“A Big Hit,” Aug. 1 ADA News). Just imagine all the viruses, bacteria, saliva released in the air! As for the food particles: spit out, removed from the floss with one’s fingers or, at best, swallowed.
Dental therapy
September 19, 2011
Winston R. Battarbee, D.D.S.
I find it absurd that the ADA Bylaws allow the ADA Commission on Dental Accreditation to set standards and pave the way for the establishment of a dental therapist’s position in dentistry (“Dental Therapy Programs: CODA Agrees to Establish Accreditation Standards,” Aug. 15 ADA News). I view this effort as a threat to public safety and the future of dentistry as a whole. Allowing irreversible procedures to be provided by under-qualified and under-trained auxiliaries is a failure on the part of organized dentistry. I find it too convenient for the ADA to excuse itself from its responsibility to ensure the integrity of our profession.
Specialists
September 19, 2011
Lloyd Wallin, D.D.S.
Dr. Edwin S. Mehlman, a retired endodontist, as well as a past ADA vice president and trustee from Warren, R.I., certainly has the credentials to attract a vast audience relative to his view on “dental therapists” that appeared in “Letters” in the Aug. 1 ADA News.
Silence of the lambs?
September 5, 2011
David Lurye, D.D.S.
I read with continued disgust (it used to be dismay but it is sadly no longer surprising) about the ratcheting down of fees paid to dentists by Delta of Washington state in the July 11 ADA News (“Washington Insurer Lowers Reimbursement”). On the same page, Delta Dental Plans Association is given space in our publication beating their chest over the fact that they have “given away” to philanthropic causes almost $300 million in six years (“Delta Says $48 Million Supported Oral Health Programs”).
Licensure
September 5, 2011
George A. Lasco, D.M.D.
Dentists are past due for national licensure by credentials. Physicians and every other type of doctor can practice in most states they wish without testing. Dentists are grouped with barbers and beauticians for needing to take exams in states where licensure by credentials is not offered. Dogs can even be licensed from state to state, and hunters can be licensed to carry guns by just paying a slightly higher license fee.
Collective bargaining
August 1, 2011
J. Kenneth Williams, D.D.S., M.B.A.
I am writing to express my frustration over the fact that we as a profession are precluded from engaging in collective bargaining, which would be an extremely helpful tool in dealing with the insurers who provide us reimbursement.
Dental therapists
August 1, 2011
Edwin S. Mehlman, D.D.S.
Every week I read something about dental therapists and how states around the country are considering these new providers as a way to expand access to dental care, especially in underserved communities. What I have not seen is any real information regarding the training required for dental therapists. I took it upon myself to find out more, and this is information I would like to share with my fellow dentists.
Licensure exams
August 1, 2011
Victor J. Barry, D.D.S.
It is disappointing that the Florida Board of Dentistry (“Florida’s Landmark Decision: State Opts for ADEX Exam for Dental Licensure,” June 20 ADA News) simply switched from one patient-based licensure exam to another (the American Board of Dental Examiners Dental Examination). They missed the chance to lead our profession away from using live patients in restorative and perio treatment to screen for incompetence. This age-old system unavoidably is set up to guarantee a few bad outcomes at every testing time and site.
Indian Health Service
June 20, 2011
Thomas W. Vitz, D.D.S.
I read with interest the article in the May 16 ADA News concerning the less than satisfactory restoration of the children of the Native American population (“Dr. Gist Meets with Tribal Leaders During Trip to Arizona and New Mexico”).
Fond memories
June 20, 2011
Kenneth G. Johnsen, D.D.S.
Would you convey my thanks and wholehearted agreement to Dr. Lloyd S. Drucker for his excellent letter in the April 18 ADA News. He is right on every count and he expressed it so eloquently. I miss those days!
Economic report
June 20, 2011
David A. Nash, D.M.D.
The March 7 ADA News contained a news item entitled “ADA Questions Findings From the Pew DHT Study: Says Faulty Economic Analysis Skews Results.”
Amalgam
May 16, 2011
Thomas R. Levickas, D.D.S.
I am confused about the article concerning amalgam (“ADA Commends U.S. Negotiating Language on Dental Amalgam,” April 18 ADA News).
Earlier times
May 16, 2011
Bill E. Taylor, D.D.S.
While reading the letter from Dr. Lloyd Drucker (“History Lesson,” April 18 ADA News), I felt a twinge of sadness for those dentists who have not enjoyed the privilege of participating in our profession of dentistry during the earlier times which Dr. Drucker remembers in his letter.
Apology
May 2, 2011
Nathan Fletcher, D.D.S.
I read with interest the letters to the editor regarding the ADA apology for past discriminatory actions, specifically excluding African-American dentists. Dr. Michael Lefkove (“Letters,” Dec. 13, 2010 ADA News) asks, “But have we not moved on?”
Affordable education
May 2, 2011
John Hasler, D.D.S.
In the March 21 ADA News (“A Night to Remember”), Dr. Raymond Gist is quoted as saying that dentistry needs to show bright young high school and college students that the doors to opportunity and inclusion are flung wide for them.
Delta compensation
April 18, 2011
Roland E. Vanaria, D.D.S.
In support of Dr. Anthony Silvestri Jr.’s letter (Feb. 7 ADA News) referencing Delta’s philanthropy, let’s cut to the chase.
On GKAS
April 18, 2011
Jane Grover, D.D.S., M.P.H.
While I can see the cause for celebration for another great year of Give Kids A Smile Day, my thoughts as a dental director of an FQHC (federally qualified health center) lean toward the old saying, “Time for a change.”
History lesson
April 18, 2011
Lloyd S. Drucker, D.D.S.
Those of you who go back a ways may remember there was a time when collegiality reigned. All belonged to the ADA with just pride as coat and tie were standard to signal that status. With more caries, fewer practitioners and no insurance, one didn’t need to clutch at new dubious profit centers, fringe therapies or sell snake oil to deal with escalating overhead exacerbated by discount fee scales. Promotion, then society-controlled, was strictly internal marketing and community service—not media-driven by slick ad men. Many in a given area often informally met to discuss common areas of interest.
Medicaid
April 18, 2011
Richard E. Leeds, D.D.S.
I appreciate and agree with everything (“ADA Questions Findings from Pew DHT Study,” March 7 ADA News)—except one thing, which is the common perception amongst everyone except dentists: “The ADA contends that the major problem with access disparities is the lack of reasonable Medicaid reimbursement rates.”
A lab says thanks
April 18, 2011
Terry Fohey
I wanted to take a moment to personally thank your organization for the ADA resolutions (“Dental Schools, Labs: House Urges Interaction to Meet Future Needs,” Nov. 15, 2010 ADA News).
ADA apology
March 21, 2011
Marvin Grossman, D.D.S.
Addressing the comments of both Dr. Michael Lefkove and Dr. Henry Zaytoun (“Letters,” Dec. 13 ADA News), I know of no dentist who has ever treated any patient or colleague disrespectfully in relation to their color or religion. This is such a non-issue in this day and age, that to discuss an apology is absolutely foolish.
Disease reduction
March 21, 2011
Arnold Rosenstock, D.D.S.
Part of the “more” that Dr. Dan L. Watt argues for in his letter (Feb. 21 ADA News) is to put the tools of prevention techniques and disease management into the hands and venues of the health care providers whom infants and children are most likely to come into contact with in the health care mainstream, and put aside the turf wars and in-fighting of self-interest which have too long been the hallmark of this profession.
Kellogg response
February 21, 2011
Sterling K. Speirn
Dr. Ron Collins' letter in the Jan. 17 ADA News regarding the launch of the Dental Therapist Project by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation is inaccurate and contradictory. On the one hand, Dr. Collins acknowledges that the operations of the Kellogg Foundation are separate and independent from those of the Kellogg Company. In total disregard for this fact, he then proceeds to reference the two organizations interchangeably, confusing the reader and resulting in mistaken identities.
Patients need more
February 21, 2011
Dan L. Watt, D.D.S.
It is not my nature to write letters to the editor, but Dr. Robert Helmholdt's comments in the Dec. 13 ADA News ("Letters") needs to be addressed.
Big tent
February 7, 2011
Donald R. Ratliff, D.D.S.
I was saddened and disheartened by the comments of Dr. Samuel Askinas concerning ADA News writing an article congratulating Dr. Paul Gosar on his congressional victory (“Letters,” Jan. 3 ADA News).
Delta Dental
February 7, 2011
Anthony R. Silvestri Jr., D.M.D.
In the Oct. 18, 2010 ADA News, Delta Dental Plans Association responded to a letter that was critical of Delta’s philanthropy. The response boasted that in 2009 alone, Delta returned $25 million to support dentistry.
Apology
January 17, 2011
Lisa Knowles, D.D.S.
In response to Dr. Michael Lefkove’s letter (Dec. 13 ADA News) asking if the ADA truly needed to apologize for its past racist ways, I would say, “yes.”
Lifeline
January 17, 2011
Todd Chastain, D.M.D.
Dr. Larry Coffee’s commentary on the Donated Dental Services organization is so true (“Celebrating 25 years of Donated Dental Services,” Dec. 13 ADA News).
Hypocrisy?
January 17, 2011
Ron Collins, D.D.S.
A read of the recently released W. K. Kellogg Foundation report on a national “Dental Therapist Initiative” left me somewhat perplexed. Having finished the piece, I had the distinct impression that the Kellogg Foundation led by Sterling K. Speirn, CEO, envisions itself as the new-age champion in the fight against, as he calls it, “the silent epidemic” of the “deplorable state of oral health in America.” I find the tenor of this report piously hypocritical.
Need evidence
January 17, 2011
Frank A. Catalanotto, D.M.D.
In the Nov. 1 ADA News, you invited “open dialogue” with all ADA members (“Dr. Gist Invites ‘Open Dialogue’ with ADA Members, Leaders: New President Addresses House, Membership”).
Oral physicians
January 17, 2011
Donald B. Giddon, D.M.D., Ph.D.
Dentists should take their heads out of the sand and recognize the inevitable. The public will ultimately succeed in obtaining more accessible and less costly dental care, and it will not be too long before they will not be able to distinguish between nondentist providers and the more medically- and surgically-qualified dentists. There is ample evidence from countries such as New Zealand, Canada and the Forsyth experiment in the United States that nondentists can and do provide quality oral health care.
Lower standard?
January 17, 2011
Griffin T. Murphey, D.D.S.
The letter which Dr. Edwin Mehlman wrote in the Dec. 13 ADA News basically states that Pew and the Kellogg Foundation are going to force dental therapists on the American public whether dentists want them or not. Pew and Kellogg may find they face surprisingly uphill battle in offering the poor a much less trained alternative to a fully trained dentist.
Other alternatives
January 17, 2011
Bernie Dishler, D.D.S.
I understand Dr. Edwin Mehlman’s frustration with the House of Delegates’ position on midlevel providers (“Letters,” Dec. 13 ADA News). He certainly has had some experience with the House. It does seem to make a lot of sense to “go with the flow.”
Cereal connection?
January 17, 2011
Charles Schumacher, D.D.S.
It is interesting to see that a foundation affiliated with a company based on infusing tons of sugar into their cereals and marketing to children is currently promoting alternate deliveries of dental care (“Kellogg Moves Ahead on Dental Therapist Project,” Dec. 13 ADA News).
Political solutions
January 17, 2011
Thomas P. Conaty, D.D.S.
I have a vision of what could happen or might still happen. I see highly educated and trained dentists in their offices sitting alone with no patients to treat. At the same time a few blocks away at a national chain drugstore, I see 10 Dental Health Aide Therapists busy treating scores of dental patients in a beautiful, fully equipped office.
Chasing storms
January 3, 2011
James D. Hooper, D.D.S.
I just received the Nov. 15 ADA News to instantly recognize Dr. Thomas Howley on the front page (“Dentist Weathers Career Change”). In the middle of June, Tom and I, along with others in our group, experienced two days of storms we will never forget: 16 tornadoes the first day followed by 13 the next, ranging from thin to giant wedges, F0 to powerful F5.
Health screening
January 3, 2011
Robert Trager, D.D.S.
I have participated in at least 38 health screenings over the years at the ADA annual session. I look forward to this member benefit every year as do many other dentists. This program to me is the best member benefit of any professional or nonprofessional organization that I have ever belonged to. The cost of the services from this health screening is as much or more in what we pay as dues.
Two sides
January 3, 2011
Samuel W. Askinas, D.D.S.
The Nov. 15 ADA News is one of the most disheartening publications I’ve read in years. Your several stories about the election of yet another far-right conservative dentist to Congress (“Dr. Gosar Credits ‘Teamwork’ for Election to Congress”) reflects what I fear has always been true of the ADA: admiration and service to the most socially and economically conservative institutions of power in our great country.
Apology
December 13, 2010
Michael D. Lefkove, D.D.S.
Am I the only ADA member to take exception to the ADA apologizing in 2010 for its past racist ways ... from 50 years ago?
DHATs
December 13, 2010
Edwin S. Mehlman, D.D.S.
Dental Health Aide Therapists have been practicing in Alaska under dentists’ supervision, and without any untoward incidents, since 2005. Congress, in the reauthorization of the Children’s Health Insurance Program, required the General Accounting Office to study the addition of a new provider to the dental team to expand access to care. The Health Resources and Services Administration has funded the Institute of Medicine to undertake major studies on access to oral health services and an appropriate oral health initiative. The Pew Center Report on the States included the existence of a new primary care provider of oral health care as one of its eight criteria in grading states on the dental policies affecting children. The Kellogg Foundation, which helped fund the Alaska initiative, has funded the American Public Health Association to develop a two academic year curriculum to train dental therapists and in committing additional funding to the therapist initiative.
Midlevel providers
December 13, 2010
Robert D. Helmholdt, D.D.S.
Dr. Brian Homer’s letter on midlevel providers (Oct. 18 ADA News) is on target. His recollection is correct about the Carter/Califon strategy in the ’70s of flooding the market with health providers to lower the costs of health services. It was a specious economic policy, representing another contrived intrusion into the marketplace.
Milestones
December 13, 2010
Henry S. Zaytoun, D.D.S.
As a long-standing member of the ADA, I would like to commend the membership on the election of Dr. Raymond F. Gist as president. The Association has demonstrated its foresight and wisdom over many years in its selection of outstanding leaders, and I am confident that Dr. Gist will furnish the quality of leadership that we have become accustomed to expect. Please extend to him my congratulations and best wishes for a very successful and rewarding tenure as president.
Protecting privacy
November 15, 2010
Alfred Bongiorno, D.M.D.
In the same week that the ADA News informed me about the new HIPAA rules with their fine nuances and Draconian penalties ("Q&A Examines HIPAA Penalties," Oct. 4 ADA News), I received my just-qualified-for Medicare card. It was dropped off in my unsecured rural mailbox and contains my social security number as the Medicare number.
Retiring dentists
November 15, 2010
Neil S. Hiltunen, D.M.D. and Donald E. Johnson D.M.D.
"Golden Years" by Dr. Walter F. Lamacki (Sept. 20 ADA News) highlighted a very real growing need and opportunity, our aging population. His recognition of the dental needs of this population and the paucity of strategies for dealing with this group speaks to a potential value of the Association of Retiring Dentists.
Dental labs
November 1, 2010
Lawrence J. Singer, D.D.S.
Returning from my 50-year class reunion during Saint Louis University’s 2010 Homecoming Week found me filled with mixed emotions. Certainly, the absence of so many classmates who have passed on set a somber tone to the week’s events, but that was offset by the positive remembrances that so many attendees reported having after 50 years of patient treatment.
Why race distinction?
November 1, 2010
Sherwin J. Berger, D.D.S.
With reference to your article on our new president, Dr. Raymond Gist (“President-Elect’s Interview: ‘I See Nothing But Positives for the Future of Dentistry’ ” Oct. 4 ADA News): I do not see the need to refer to Dr. Gist as “the ADA’s first African-American president.”
Delta responds
October 18, 2010
Chris Pyle
A July 12 ADA News article entitled “Maine Lifts Insurance Restrictions” and a related Sept. 20 letter to the editor from Dr. Richard A. Stephey contained information that could lead some to form false conclusions about Delta Dental policies and its approach to philanthropy.
Midlevel providers
October 18, 2010
Brian L. Homer, D.M.D.
My recollection is that back in the 70s, the government decided that we had a dentist shortage and encouraged schools to expand enrollment, speed up graduation, etc. to meet the shortage. When dentists graduated and the flood of new dentists hit the market, many providers were not busy. The government gave incentives to get dentists into critical shortage areas.
New president
October 18, 2010
Shanthi Madireddi, D.D.S.
As I opened my mailbox today, I was delighted to see Dr. Raymond Gist featured in the Sept. 20 ADA News. The author describes Dr. Gist perfectly in the first sentence: “Soft-spoken with a welcoming smile, Dr. Raymond Gist gives a first impression of a friendly, polite gentleman, a listener who is happy to hear what you have to say.”
Patients in need
October 18, 2010
Fred Zietz, D.D.S.
In response to the Sept. 6 ADA News “My View” (“The Doctor Won’t See You Now”), I believe Dr. Jonathan Shenkin has it half right. The dental profession should try to meet the need in the middle. While extra funding will open doors for poor and disadvantaged patients, dentists also have to step up and treat a percentage in good faith.
Delta restrictions
September 20, 2010
Richard A. Stephey, D.D.S.
I couldn’t help but notice in the July 12 ADA News the contradiction of Delta Dental.
Diagnosis
September 20, 2010
Ted J. Urbanski, D.D.S.
Dr. Robert Brunker ("Restoring MG Roadsters and Teeth," June 7 ADA News) has revealed a subject that has long needed to come out of the dental closet. Although he didn't use the word, hyperdiagnosis remains an issue that can undermine public trust and confidence in our profession.
A loss to all
September 20, 2010
Charles L. Stoup Jr., D.D.S.
I read with interest and sadness the article about Dr. Thomas Grams in the Aug. 16 ADA News ("Volunteer Dentist Killed in Afghanistan"). As a long-time volunteer of 15 years to serve Rotary Dental Clinics in Guatemala, Jamaica, Thailand and Kenya, I understand the importance of such mission work and the value to the patients served.
Restore or not restore
September 20,2010
John N. Stellpflug, D.D.S.
I found Dr. Brunker’s June 7 "My View" interesting from several perspectives. First, as the owner of a TR7, I appreciate the push-pull of deciding what to restore. Second, I have strong opinions about when to restore teeth (as most of us do). Finally, I am intrigued by the editorial staff interest in this article. It is a simple straightforward article that should provoke much thought and discussion.
Correction
September 6, 2010
Roy L. Irons, D.D.S.
After reading the article "Making History" about the first National Summit on Diversity in Dentistry (July 12 ADA News), I noticed that I was misquoted and would like a correction.
Eliminate fraud
September 6, 2010
Leonard Kessler, D.D.S.
I question the ADA conclusion that the PECOS enrollment rule is unnecessarily burdensome (July 12 ADA News).
PECOS
September 6, 2010
Steven A. Saxe, D.M.D.
I am glad to see that the ADA is interested in dental specialists, the group of the ADA that may be affected most by PECOS and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services changes. During my past 22 years as a paying member of the ADA, it has done little to address the concerns of ADA-recognized specialties.
Brican
August 16, 2010
Alan Raskas, D.D.S.
As a life member of the ADA, I am quite disappointed in the non-stand the ADA is taking in this Brican issue ("Class Action Complaints Filed Against Brican America," May 3 ADA News).
Dues
August 16, 2010
Walter Hofman, D.D.S.
There is no necessity to apologize or explain a dues increase ("Supporting Infrastructure: Board Proposes $23 Special Assessment, $7 Dues Increase," June 21 ADA News).
Haiti relief
August 16, 2010
Michael G. O’Callaghan, D.D.S.
I enjoyed reading the views expressed by Dr. Mike Karr regarding helping the people of Haiti (July 12 ADA News).
Kudos to students
August 16, 2010
Virginia W. Crose, D.D.S.
The article "Georgia Dental Students Help Vets," printed in the May 17 ADA News, was especially touching. I really was inspired with the Medical College of Georgia School of Dentistry’s students helping veterans at the Georgia War Veterans Nursing Home.
MetLife
July 12, 2010
James F. Smith, D.D.S., J.D.
I would like to apply to become a MetLife dental consultant ("Some MetLife U.S. Dental Claims Being Reviewed in India," June 21 ADA News). My availability is unlimited, and my credentials are impeccable.
Office emergencies
July 12, 2010
Larry J. Sangrik, D.D.S.
The May edition of The Journal of the American Dental Association contained a 22-page supplement, "Medical Emergencies: What Dentists and Staff Need to Know to Save Lives."
School memories
July 12, 2010
Lawrence A. Funt, D.D.S.
In September 1946 my freshman entering class at dental school consisted of 89 GIs and three civilians.
Good works
July 12, 2010
Jacob M. Bagley, D.D.S.
Congratulations to the ADA for highlighting the wonderful Dental Volunteers for Israel Trudi Birger Dental Clinic (" 'We are Trying to Bring the World Together': Volunteers from Around the Globe Help Jerusalem’s Needy Children at DVI Clinic," June 7 ADA News).
Step up
June 7, 2010
James Dannenberg, D.D.S.
About Dr. Kurt Ferre's article, "Volunteerism is Soul Food" (May 3 ADA News): I believe that all dentists know this and do their share for free patients and/or giving their time to charity.
New team members
June 7, 2010
Allen Hindin, D.D.S., M.P.H.
"How else to explain that a new team member will be created who, in my opinion, will simultaneously deliver sub-par work and ineluctably undermine the security of the private practitioner?"
Kudos, Dr. Conaty
June 7, 2010
E. Donald Thomas, D.M.D.
Finally, we hear the voice of dentistry and aspire to rectify the misguided judgment pervasive in our politics-as-usual dental associations ("Taking Over the Dialogue," April 19 ADA News). We need more dentists to stand up and tell it like it is. We need to be strong in our convictions and unwavering in our belief that dentists are the most qualified and respected experts in dealing with all aspects of dental disease.
Hib meningitis
May 17, 2010
Steve Holve, M.D.
I am writing in response to Dr. Norman Tinanoff, et al. ("Letters," March 1 ADA News) regarding early childhood caries as a "different disease."
Making fees public
May 17, 2010
Kurtis E. Wirth, D.D.S.
For the record, I was in favor of some sort of national health care bill. I think something should be done. However, I wanted something for everyone, especially the actual taxpayers.
Protect the public
May 17, 2010
Fares M. Elias, D.D.S.
I would like to thank Dr. Thomas P. Conaty for his riveting analysis in "Taking Over the Dialogue" (April 19 ADA News).
New team members
May 03, 2010
Stephen D. Carter, D.D.S.
"You oughta be able to learn to fix teeth in a year or two." As a dentist, I've always believed it takes a dentist to really appreciate another dentist. We have a huge storehouse of knowledge which we must extemporaneously access. Even our auxiliaries who work with us daily comprehend only a modicum of the logic and nuanced reasoning behind our work. This is not meant to disparage their intelligence; they simply have not been sufficiently educated because they have not gone to dental school.
