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ACT ION
THE JOURNAL OF THE GEORGIA DENTAL ASSOCIATION
AUGUST 2010
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VOLUME 30, NUMBER 8 • AUGUST 2010
ACTION
on the cover
ACT ION
THE JOURNAL OF THE GEORGIA DENTAL ASSOCIATION
GDA ACTION (ISSN 0273-5989) The official publication of the Georgia Dental Association (GDA) is published monthly. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to GDA Action at 7000 Peachtree Dunwoody Road N.E., Suite 200, Building 17, Atlanta, GA 30328. Phone numbers in state are (404) 636-7553 and (800) 432-4357. www.gadental.org. Closing date for copy: first of the month preceding publication month. Subscriptions: $17 of membership dues is for the newsletter; all others, $75 per year. Periodicals postage paid at Atlanta, GA. Dr. Jonathan Dubin GDA Editor 2970 Clairmont Rd Suite 195 Atlanta, GA 30329
Delaine Hall GDA Managing Editor 7000 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd NE Suite 200, Building 17 Atlanta, GA 30328
2010-2011 Georgia Dental Association Officers John F. Harrington Jr., DDS, President Michael O. Vernon, DMD, President Elect Sidney R. Tourial, DDS, Vice President James B. Hall III, DDS, MS, Secretary/Treasurer Jonathan S. Dubin, DMD, Editor
AUGUST 2010
The January 2010 GDA House of Delegates charged the Patient Protection Task Force with developing a strategic plan to help protect Georgia’s citizens from under-educated mid-level dental providers. As a part of its plan, the task force created the “White Paper on Georgia’s Oral Health Status, Access to and Utilization of Oral Health Care Services” that was approved by the July 2010 House of Delegates. Read the paper, and how the GDA is planning to educate Georgia decision makers, advocacy groups, and patients about access to care, on page 14.
other features
sections
10
Making a Difference in Georgia with the Mission of Mercy
4
Parting Shots
5
Editorial
16
Fisher Dental Education Foundation Celebrates 25th Anniversary
6
Guest Commentary
17
Without the GDA, How Would Your Practice Look?
7
News and Views
8
Calendar of Events
GDA Action seeks to be an issues-driven journal focusing on current matters affecting Georgia dentists, patients, and their treatment, accomplished through disseminating information and providing a forum for member commentary.
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Minutes
© Copyright 2010 by the Georgia Dental Association. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission. Publication of any article or advertisement should not be deemed an endorsement of the opinions expressed or products advertised. The Association expressly reserves the right to refuse publication of any article, photograph, or advertisement.
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Classifieds
26
Breaking the Mold
GDA/GDIS/PDRS Executive Office Staff Members Martha S. Phillips, Executive Director Nelda Greene, MBA, Associate Executive Director Delaine Hall, Director of Communications Skip Jones, Director of Operations (PDRS) Courtney Layfield, Director of Member Services Victoria LeMaire, Medical Accounts Manager Melana Kopman McClatchey, General Counsel Denis Mucha, Director of Operations (GDIS) Margo Null, Property and Casualty Accounts Manager Phyllis Willich, Administrative Assistant Pamela Yungk, Director of Membership & Finance
Member Publication American Association of Dental Editors
index of advertisers Note: Publication of an advertisement is not to be construed as an endorsement or approval by the GDA or any of its subsidiaries, committees, or task forces of the product or service offered in the
advertisement unless the advertisement specifically includes an authorized statement that such approval or endorsement has been granted.
ADS South . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Georgia Dental Insurance Services . . . . . . . .28
Professional Debt Recovery Services . . . . . .11
AFTCO Transition Consultants . . . . . . . . . . .22
Great Expressions Dental Centers . . . . . . . .19
Professional Practice Management . . . . . . .25
Atlanta Age Management Medicine . . . . . . .20
Law Office of Stuart J. Oberman . . . . . . . . .15
Southeast Transitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
Center for TMJ Therapy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Medical Protective . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Dental Care Alliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Officite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
GDA Dental Recovery Network . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Paragon Dental Practice Transitions . . . . . .24
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editorial perspective Caring for Indigent Georgians: Take a Bow, M.O.M.
Jonathan S. Dubin, DMD
“The hope is that our
efforts
will
make crystal clear to those in power that the need for dental care among the less fortunate is great and our safety net needs an upgrade, not more budget
cuts
that
pinch providers as well as the needy.”
August 11-13, 2011. It may be a year from now, but please mark your calendars. These powerful few days will mean the world for hundreds of Georgians in need of dental care. You have the power within you to make a difference as your GDA leads the effort for what will be known as G.M.O.M.—the Georgia Mission of Mercy. Now you know when and what; let me tell you about the why and where. The G.M.O.M. will be a massive undertaking involving hundreds of volunteers all helping many individuals at one time. The event provides instant gratification for those volunteering, and instant relief for those in need. But the hope is that our G.M.O.M. will be much more than a flash in the pan. The hope is that our efforts will make crystal clear to those in power that the need for dental care among the less fortunate is great and our safety net needs an upgrade, not more budget cuts that pinch providers as well as the needy. The saying goes that if you give a man a fish he will eat for a day, but if you teach a man how to fish he will eat for a lifetime. Well, we are not serving sushi here. We have an opportunity to reach thousands of people. We will not only provide services for those in need (a number swollen by our current economic situation) but we will educate these individuals on the importance of oral health and how to ensure their oral health in the future. With any luck, what we will be doing will be seen by many, the media and legislators included. The opportunity here is not just to give immediate help to people, but to teach, to educate people to help themselves. I would be preaching to the choir if I went into detail of the effects of oral disease or the benefits of good home care and professional dental services. I could go on and on about how good oral health affects self-esteem as well as an individual’s general health. Perhaps a bump in self-esteem will change one life, or change dozens, during the G.M.O.M. event. We know we make a difference in people’s lives all of the time. It is
a very powerful thing to make the difference for someone ‘down’ at the time. During our sesquicentennial celebration in 2009, we promoted the impact of Georgia dentists’ charitable dental care with the 150 Faces Campaign. Think of G.M.O.M. as that campaign on steroids. Imagine the message we will send! Here is your opportunity to give of your talent and time to promote your profession and to care for others here in Georgia. It will take more than 100 dentists and several hundred auxiliary volunteers from dental hygienists and dental assistants to lay people to help with everything from setup and registration to food service. We will provide services ranging from prophylaxis and examinations to restorative care, endodontic treatment, and oral surgery. We will touch many lives, and create powerful lasting results. The GDA thanks two important partners for their assistance in launching our inaugural G.M.O.M. First Baptist Church of Woodstock in Cherokee County is providing the facility where we will care for patients. (We hope to help other areas of the state another year.) This church has grown throughout the years to provide a “shelter of hope” for the community of Woodstock and throughout the world. Their mission ties in well with our G.M.O.M. mission. Additionally, the GDA is forming a 501(c)(3) charitable foundation to assist with G.M.O.M. fundraising activities after the concept of creating a foundation was approved by the July House of Delegates. Other states have made a Mission of Mercy a yearly event, and I believe Georgia should do no less. But I want to make our first M.O.M. something special, and the effort starts now. Visit www.georgiamissionofmercy.org to let your GDA know that you will be available in the lead up to the event in 2011, and at the event itself.
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guest commentary There is No Better Time To Be a GDA Dentist
Wendy L. Mitchell, DDS, Chair Recruitment and Retention Committee
This is a great time to be a GDA member dentist. You probably could guess I was going to say that. I am the chair of the Recruitment and Retention Committee after all (after serving as the Northwestern District representative under the incredible committee leadership of Dr. Karyn Stockwell for six years—thank you Karyn!). But I am convinced that this is a great time to be a part of organized dentistry in Georgia. You are holding one reason in your hands right now. All dentists in Georgia are receiving this issue of the GDA journal. One reason is that the journal is serving as an invitation to non-members and former members to join organized dentistry. Another is to encourage current member dentists to talk to a non-member about joining using this issue to break the ice. The third is to share the document printed as an insert this month. Entitled White Paper on Georgia’s Oral Health Status, Access to and Utilization of Oral Health Care Services (a white paper is an authoritative report that addresses pressing issues and how to solve them), this comprehensive document is meant to: • Provide an accurate assessment of Georgia’s dental workforce, • Educate advocacy groups about the status of access to dental care in Georgia, and • How a team led by a dentist can continue to deliver quality dental care to all Georgians. This document was created by GDA dentists who started their research in January 2010 and had a paper ready for approval by the July 2010 House of Delegates. Amazing. The House unanimously approved this paper without a single change in wording. Now, the GDA has a thoroughly researched document ready to use when legislators or other groups question how dental care is delivered in our state. We have answers ready.
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There is a reason that advocacy on behalf of our profession and patients is the most valued GDA member benefit (through three membership surveys now). The GDA is the voice of dentistry in Georgia with legislators, other professional advocacy groups, and state agencies. We accomplish this with our Legislative Awareness (LAW) Day program, Contact Dentist Program, and active Governmental Affairs and GDA Political Action committees, all of which encourage and depend on member dentist involvement. We accomplish this with documents like our new white paper, and all the position papers authorized by our House of Delegates on other key subjects. When you join the GDA, you become part of an organization that gets things done for our patients and our profession. When you get involved with GDA advocacy efforts (for example, by attending a LAW Day or making a PAC donation), you actually personally get things done for your patients and your profession. I can also talk a lot about the other benefits offered by your membership, and mean every word. There is the contract analysis benefit which allows you to enjoy a thorough analysis of third party contracts before you sign. There is expert assistance for any sort of third party issue, including Medicaid and PeachCare. Peer review is not something any of us wants to think about, but there is a comprehensive, volunteer-driven system right here ready to mediate patient complaints. The GDA is a resource for regulatory assistance (think OSHA and HIPAA), public relations on behalf of the profession,
COMMENTARY Continued on page 9
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general news EASTERN Eastern District Kudos to Michael Rogers, DDS, of Augusta. He was inducted as President Elect of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) this summer. This GDA Past President and Augusta native attended dental school at Emory University and received his training in orthodontics at the Medical College of Georgia. Dr. Rogers is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics. He has also served as AAO Speaker, and is a past president of the Southern Association of Orthodontists and Georgia Association of Orthodontists, He is also a former Speaker of GDA House of Delegates and is a GDA Honorable Fellow.
Alpharetta Children’s Dentistry. In addition, he is a clinical assistant professor at the Medical College of Georgia. He has been a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry since 1997. Dr. Shirley attended dental school at the University of Mississippi and received his pediatric dental certificate and Master’s degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
NORTHWESTERN Northwestern District The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) inducted new members of the AAPD Board of Trustees in May. Kudos to Rhea Haugseth, DMD, of Marietta who became President Elect of the organization. She previously served as the group’s vice president (2009-2010), secretarytreasurer (2008-2009), parliamentarian (2005-2006), and the District III trustee (2002-2005). Dr. Haugseth attended dental school at the University of Louisville and received her pediatric dental certificate from Case Western Reserve University. She is a fellow of AAPD and a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. She also serves as the current president of the Southeastern Society of Pediatric Dentistry.
The GDA extends sympathy to the family and colleagues of the following individuals. For full obituaries on these dentists, visit www.gadental.org or call the GDA office. William D. Culpepper, DDS, who died May 30, 2010, at the age of 81. Dr. Culpepper was a member of the GDA through the Northern District. He was a 1951 Emory University School of Dentistry graduate and a prosthodontist. He was a GDA Honorable Fellow and American Dental Association Life Member. James W. Dougherty, DDS, who died July 20, 2010, at the age of 68. Dr. Dougherty was a member of the GDA through the Northern District. He was a 1968 University of Tennessee School of Dentistry graduate and an orthodontist. He was a GDA Honorable Fellow, GDA Contact Dentist, and American Dental Association Life Member. Jeffrey A. Moritz, DDS, who died July 21, 2010, at the age of 68. Dr. Moritz was a 1966 University of Tennessee School of Dentistry graduate and a periodontist. He was a former president of the Georgia Board of Dentistry.
Dr. Michael Rogers.
NORTHERN Northern District The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) inducted new members of the AAPD Board of Trustees in May. Congratulations to J.C. Shirley, DMD, of Atlanta who was named Director of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry (ABPD). He is a pediatric dentist with the Center for Craniofacial Disorders at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Pediatric Hospital and is in private practice with
In Memoriam
AAPD President Elect Dr. Rhea Haugseth and her pediatric office “mascot” Maggie, a Wheaten terrier.
Paul H. Nichols Jr., DDS, who died May 19, 2010, at the age of 88. Dr. Nichols was a member of the GDA through the Northern District. He was a 1944 AtlantaSouthern Dental College (Emory University) graduate. He was an American Dental Association Life Member.
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Upcoming Dental Events August 14: GDA Board of Trustees / Committee Orientation Meeting, GDA Office. August 21: GDA Special Olympics Screenings, Warner Robins. August 28: Northern District Gala for Smiles, Druid Hills Golf Club. September 6: GDA Office Closed for Labor Day Holiday. September 9: GDA Officer Visit to Central District. September 10-12: ADA Fifth District Meeting (GA, AL, MS), Atlanta. September 13: Northern District Executive Council Meeting, GDA Office. September 15: Northwestern District Executive Council Meeting, Cartersville Country Club. September 16: GDA Officer Visit to Western District, LaGrange. September 17: Southeastern / Southwestern District Fall Meetings. September 22: Northern District CE Meeting, Villa Christina, Atlanta. September 24-26: Alliance Wellbeing Retreat, Tallulah Falls. See www.gadental.org for details. September 26-28: A ADA Board of Trustees Meeting, Chicago. October 1: Alliance Student Spouse Event, Drisko Home, Augusta. October 1-2: Expanded Duties for Dental Assistants, Atlanta / Dr. Becky Weinman’s office. To register, call (800) 432-4357 or (404) 636-7553, email willich@gadental.org, or visit www.gadental.org.*
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October 6: Northern District CE Meeting, Villa Christina, Atlanta.
October 23: GDA Alliance Assemble Legislative Dental Kits, GDA Office.
October 6: Northwestern District Planning Meeting, Marietta.
October 28: GDA Officer Visit to Northern District.
October 9-11: ADA Annual Session Exhibit Hall Open (Orlando, FL). October 9-12: ADA Annual Session Continuing Education (Orlando, FL). October 9-13: ADA Annual Session House of Delegates (Orlando, FL). October 17: Fisher Dental Education Foundation Meeting, GDA Office. October 19: GDA Officer Visit to Eastern District. October 20: GDA Officer Visit to Northwestern District.
* Expanded Duties Dental courses offered on a first come, first served basis. Registration closes 30 days prior to course date. Course IV: Denture Repair, Night Guards, Face Bow Transfer, Retraction Cord Placement, Provisional Restorations. Course V: Periodontal Dressing Placement (Pack), In-Office Bleaching, Liner and Base, Dentin Bonding, Densensitization. Course VI: Monitor Nitrous, Fluoride Application, Sealants, Dry Socket Redressing. (Course 6 should be the only course that pediatric assistants need.)
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COMMENTARY Continued frompage 6
spokesperson training, CE credit for study clubs, a terrific annual meeting, and service and volunteer opportunities (the Georgia Mission of Mercy, for one). The GDA maintains open, beneficial relationships with the Medical College of Georgia and the Georgia Board of Dentistry. There are member-researched endorsements on valuable products and services, and two dentist-governed GDA subsidiaries offering reasonably priced, fully researched, and impeccably staffed medical and practice insurance and debt collection services. There are also innumerable benefits offered at the district level (think continuing education and social interaction at district
events) and at the national level (the ADA is a respected advocate on Capitol Hill and a research powerhouse). On a personal level, being part of a group with the same tensions, problems, and satisfactions that we all experience day-to-day is just plain helpful! I enjoy being a member of my association. I admire the professionals I see who are members and who volunteer in organized dentistry areas that interest them, from Children’s Dental Health Month to governmental affairs, information technology, finance, charitable care, and more. I want everyone to experience the value of membership and I want our profession and patients to benefit from the commitment of every Georgia dentist to join. Contact me at wmitch03@bellsouth.net with your membership questions, or contact Pam Yungk at the GDA office to join. I look forward to welcoming you.
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Touching lives in Georgia one smile at a time!
Making a Difference in Georgia with M.O.M. Karyn Stockwell, DMD G.M.O.M. Project Chair
When we think of our moms we often think about comfort and care—especially when it is needed most. This is why the acronym M.O.M., which stands for Mission of Mercy, is so fitting for what we want to take place in Georgia.
What is a M.O.M.? The purpose of a M.O.M. is to combine the donated services of dentists, dental staff members, and lay volunteers to provide free dental care to reduce health risks and suffering for those who cannot afford such care. The Georgia Mission of Mercy (G.M.O.M.) will be a two-day dental clinic to provide dental services to adults in the community at no charge. The event also requires one day for set-up and another for tear-down. Our successful G.M.O.M. event will focus on: • Providing free access to dental care for low- and no-income adults while placing a high priority on patients suffering from dental infections or pain. • Raising awareness of the increasing difficulty low-income adults face in accessing critical dental care.
• Challenging Medicaid patients, policymakers, and dental professionals to work together to improve the oral health of those who have been promised care by the state. The emphasis will be on basic dental care such as fillings, extractions, and cleanings. Limited lab work (for example, treatment partials) and limited root canal therapy will be offered. The program is unable to treat patients with some specific medically compromising conditions such as extremely high blood pressure.
What is a M.O.M. Event Like? Mix approximately 300 volunteer dental professionals plus several hundred lay volunteers in partnership with the host
The First Baptist Church of Woodstock has ample parking and facility space to handle a large gathering of volunteers and patients throughout the G.M.O.M. event.
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community and you historically get lines of patients forming in the middle of the night to obtain care. Services are provided on a first come, first serve basis with approximately 750 to 1,000 patients being treated each day.
When and Where Did the M.O.M Program Start? The Virginia Dental Association along with the Virginia Dental Health Foundation launched the M.O.M. project in 2000 to “make caring visible.” Since then, M.O.M. projects have been held in Arkansas, Connecticut, Colorado, Illinois, Kansas, Nebraska, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. M.O.M. projects have reached
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over 100,000 individuals and provided nearly $50 million in free services since 2000.
What Does Hosting a M.O.M. Require? First is a passion among local dental professionals! Volunteers are essential to the success of a M.O.M. event. In addition to the dental professionals, the GDA needs buy-in from the host community. Several hundred lay volunteers are necessary to help with food service, parking, crowd control, set-up, and tear-down, as well as serve as patient escorts and translators. Historically, church groups, scouts, and civic groups become involved with M.O.M. projects.
M.O.M. Continued on page 12
Dr. Jonathan Dubin and Dr. Karyn Stockwell at the Mission of Mercy event in Wisconsin in June 2010. Dr. Dubin and Dr. Stockwell were part of the GDA team that visited that state’s M.O.M. event to gain experience in a “see one, do one, teach one” principle.
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M.O.M. Continued from page 11
The second requirement is a facility of at least 25,000 square feet to house the portable equipment, supplies, volunteers, and patients. Other states have used civic centers, airport hangers, vacant factories, high school gymnasiums, county fairgrounds, and racetracks. The GDA has partnered with First Baptist Church of Woodstock, which has more than ample parking and facility space to handle our program. The church also has a highly energetic congregation and staff who are experienced in hosting large community events and who are eager to volunteer for this project. A third requirement is a fundraising effort that involves soliciting gifts from corporate and individual donors, applying for foundation grants, and seeking in-kind contributions. Besides all the volunteer manpower, it can take anywhere from $50,000 to $180,000 in cash and in-kind contributions (for equipment rental, sup-
plies, insurance, food service, signage, security, utilities, and the like) to host a M.O.M. event. America’s Dentist Care Foundation, also known as America’s M.O.M., is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing and maintaining all the equipment necessary to put on a M.O.M. event as well as providing assistance in organizing the event and providing “M.O.M. squads” to help ensure the event is a success. In order to rent the America’s M.O.M. equipment and receive the guidance and expertise of a M.O.M. squad, Georgia was required to send a team to another state’s M.O.M. event to gain experience in a “see one, do one, teach one” principle. Dr. Jonathan Dubin, GDA Executive Director Martha Phillips, GDA staff support Courtney Layfield, and I attended Wisconsin’s second annual M.O.M. in June 2010. We gathered a wealth of experience we will put into play in 2011! Other G.M.O.M. task force members will be traveling to other M.O.M. events this year and next to gain their own experience.
The facility set up at the Wisconsin Mission of Mercy shows the sheer size of the two-day care event. The Georgia M.O.M. will have at least 100 treatment chairs set up in a facility at the First Baptist Church of Woodstock.
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Why Do We Need a Georgia M.O.M.? Good oral health is vital to the overall health and welfare of individuals. Oral disease can affect a person’s ability to eat, and how a person looks and communicates. Oral health is inseparable from general health and can affect self-esteem and compromise a person’s ability to work, attend school, or find a job. We know these patients suffer for various reasons: priorities, failure to care for their own health, economics—the list is long. Many may not know how to care for their oral health, which is why … • Education is key! Education is the most cost effective way to reduce oral disease among the low-income population which is why a program to help patients understand the importance of good daily oral hygiene, a healthy diet, and routine preventive care has to be part of a successful G.M.O.M.
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One Mission of Mercy By the Numbers* • 2 days • 953 volunteers • 180 dentists Individuals seeking dental care typically line up hours before the doors open at a G.M.O.M. event. The Georgia M.O.M. is planning on providing care for anywhere from 750 to 1,000 patients on each treatment day.
• 120 dental hygienists • 160 dental students
• Frankly, the economy! The uninsured, working poor in Georgia have few options; small businesses can only absorb so much income loss; and lawmakers have failed to sufficiently fund dental care programs. • To make “caring visible” in Georgia! Many GDA dentists provide pro-bono care in their offices or at indigent clinics but typically do so quietly and invisibly. Dentists Do Serve (DDS) in their communities and Dentists Make a Difference (DMD) for the underserved.
G.M.O.M. Planning Committee Dr. Karyn Stockwell, Project Chair Dr. Jonathan Dubin, Assistant Project Chair Janeime Asbury, RDH Dr. Janine Bethea, Volunteer Chair Molly Bickford, Hospitality Chair
• 1,576 teeth extracted
Dr. Donald Brown, Prosthodontics Lead Dr. Byron Colley Dr. Clayton Davis, Set-Up / Tear-Down Co-Lead
Dr. Celia Dunn, Routing Lead
The G.M.O.M. task force (see the list at right) is gathering the names and emails of all individuals who are interested in volunteering in August 2011 during the event in Woodstock, Georgia. Email Courtney Layfield at layfield@gadental.org if you wish to be placed on an email list that will alert interested persons when volunteer registration opens and when other opportunities to volunteer occur. You can also visit www.georgiamissionofmercy.org to sign up for email alerts.
• 7,784 procedures
Dr. Jack Bickford, Legislative Lead
Teddie Dominy, RDH, Dental Distributors
How Can I Help with G.M.O.M.?
• 2,038 patients
Dr. Ken Farrar, Set-Up / Tear-Down Co-Lead Dr. Ken Hutchinson, Oral Surgery Lead
• 1,554 teeth filled • 713 cleanings • 108 sealants placed • 493 X-rays
Dr. Tom Jagor, Restorative Lead Courtney Layfield, GDA Staff Support Dr. Dave Lee, Restorative Chair Mrs. Cheryl Lee Dr. Terry O’Shea, Dental Triage Chair Dr. John Peacock, Facilities Chair
• 86 treatment partials made • 15 root canals done
Martha Phillips, GDA Executive Director Dr. Annette Rainge, Patient Exit Lead
• Care valued at $880,000+
Dr. Robin Reich, PR / Media Co-Lead Dr. Richard Smith, Finance Chair / PR Media Co-Lead Dr. Becky Weinman, Hygiene Lead
*Numbers from the 2010 Wisconsin Mission of Mercy in Sheboygan.
Dr. Carol Wooden, Auxiliary Chair Dr. Barry Vlass, Medical Chair GDA ACTION AUGUST 2010
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GDA Patient Protection Task Force Plans Strategy to Address State Access to Care Issues Ty Ivey, DDS, Task Force Chairman
The January 2010 GDA House of Delegates charged our Patient Protection Task Force with developing a strategic plan to help protect Georgia’s citizens from under-educated mid-level dental providers. As a part of its plan, the task force created the “White Paper on Georgia’s Oral Health Status, Access to and Utilization of Oral Health Care Services” that was approved by the July 2010 House of Delegates and is inserted in this journal. This White Paper is Georgia-specific and is targeted to Georgia decision makers, advocacy groups, and patients. The Patient Protection Task Force is concerned that the American Dental Association (ADA) is under pressure to change the core values and standard of care that Georgia’s professionals believe is necessary to protect the health and safety of our patients who currently enjoy the best oral health care in the world. However, we believe the profession must look introspectively and provide unbiased recommendations to improve access to and utilization of oral health care services.
“The . . . Task Force is concerned that the [ADA] is under pressure to change the core values and standard of care that Georgia’s professionals believe is necessary to protect the health and safety of our patients.”
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For our input to be credible we must look for solutions that are unbiased and are based on what is in the patient’s best interest. Because access to care is a multifaceted issue, it is necessary to examine the various components that impact delivery and access to care. An understanding of the health status and the level of Georgians’ oral health literacy is an essential first step in developing an action plan. Utilization of dental care is affected by potential barriers that are unique to each patient. Barriers can include insurance, financial resources, education, transportation, geographic limitations, a patient’s age, cultural background, and fear of dental procedures. No one solution will solve all of these problems. In our search for answers, dentistry must not compromise a standard of care that ensures the health and safety of our patients in the name of progress. Some outside the profession and some within the profession have put forth a solution—a mid-level provider (MLP). Some versions of proposed MLPs would receive a minimal education and perform irreversible procedures on patients. New Zealand has employed MLPs since 1921. The use of MLPs has not solved New Zealand’s oral health issues. This country is still experiencing oral health disease in certain pockets of the country. Recent data prompted New Zealand to reconstruct its dental delivery system. What this information underscores is that merely creating different types of providers to augment care from a dentist does not provide appropriate and accessible oral health care. Many people are pressuring the ADA to accept the MLP and to change our standard of care to embrace this undereducated provider. They argue that if an MLP is legal and working in their state, the profession and the ADA should change its standards to fit their model. We believe that the ADA should examine these arguments closely and resist the urge to conform. No data or scientific evidence support the premise that an MLP
“Some versions of proposed [mid-level providers] would receive a minimal education and perform irreversible procedures on patients.”
increases access to care or that an MLP system won’t do potential harm to the safety or oral health of the public. Taking a step back in education is taking a step back to the time when dentistry was a trade and not a profession. The Task Force is made up of dentists who devoted hours of time to creating this White Paper. We also acknowledge and applaud the Academy of General Dentistry’s excellent “White Paper on Increasing Access to and Utilization of Oral Health Care Services.” Our Georgia document should be considered as a complement to that paper.
Patient Protection Task Force Members Dr. Ty Ivey (C), Chair Dr. Jim Reynierson (E) Dr. Richard Weinman (N) Dr. Jason Oyler (NW) Dr. Mark Dusek (SE) Dr. Ed Green (SW) Dr. Matt Adams (W) Dr. Kent Percy, 2009-10 President Ex-Officio: 2010-11 President Dr. Jay Harrington, Past President Dr. Donna Thomas Moses, Secretary / Treasurer Dr. Jim Hall, and Governmental Affairs Chair Dr. Jack Bickford
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Fisher Foundation for Dental Education in Georgia Celebrates 25th Anniversary In 1984, GDA President Dr. Jay McCaslin V appointed an ad hoc committee to study the possibility of implementing a dental foundation in the state. After months of research and planning, the committee recommended to the GDA House of Delegates that the Georgia Dental Education Foundation be formed. In 1985, the GDA House of Delegates gave their enthusiastic approval and provided initial funding of $50,000 to enable the Foundation to get onto its feet. Officially, the Georgia Dental Education Foundation was given recognition as a charitable organization through the Secretary of State and the IRS on August 20, 1985. “The mission of the Foundation is to provide quality educational opportunities for the profession in order to have a positive impact on the quality of dental services and on the access to oral health care in Georgia,” said Foundation President Dr. John Harden of Atlanta. “The Foundation’s purpose is to ensure that there is a continuous flow
of qualified candidates entering the profession by awarding scholarships to deserving individuals. We feel the Foundation has done this quite well.” The Foundation is governed by a Board of Directors from every part of the state. This board includes not only dentists and others close to the profession, but also members of the community committed to enhancing oral health in Georgia. (See a list of the current Board members on page 18.) The Foundation has sought revenue in numerous ways since its inception. Fundraising efforts have included the Tour de Floss (a team headed by Foundation Past President Mike Miller, PhD, participated in the Tour de Georgia bicycle race for seven years by raising money for every mile completed), raffles, silent auctions, phone-a-thons, and variouslynamed scholarship funds. In addition, member dentists of the Georgia Dental Association are given the opportunity to make a contribution to the Foundation through their annual dues statements.
Thanks to these and other funds, such as estate gifts, assets of the Foundation have reached $1 million. In 2005, the Georgia Dental Education Foundation was renamed as The Emile T. Fisher Foundation for Dental Education in Georgia. This was to honor Dr. Emile Fisher’s contributions to dental education in Georgia. Dr. Fisher, a retired Atlanta dentist, played a pivotal role in creating the Foundation as Chairman of the 1984 GDA Ad Hoc Committee, and continues to play an active role in the operations of the Foundation. Over just the last 10 years, the Foundation has awarded well over $500,000 to deserving students entering the dental profession. But as educational costs for dentists continue to grow, the Foundation continues to work to raise additional funds in order to allow bright, dedicated students at the Medical College FISHER FOUNDATION Continued on page 18
Fisher Foundation Commended by Governor’s Office
Fisher Foundation representatives (l to r) Dr. Mike Hagearty, Vice President Mr. Dale Crail, Dr. Emile Fisher, Secretary Mrs. Beverly Allen, Business Manager Barbara McCollum, Dr. Jimmy Talbot, and President Dr. John Harden join Governor Perdue for the signing of a commendation acknowledging the Foundation for 25 years of accomplishment.
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Without the GDA, How Would Your Practice Look? Imagine that on Monday morning you walked into your dental practice to be confronted by your staff on numerous issues affecting your ability to practice dentistry. • The Department of Labor representative arrived to inspect your autoclave and collect your annual fee. • Your accountant left a message stating that you owe more than $40,000 to the state and county for your “occupation tax.” • Your office manager reports that the collection agency you have utilized is failing to perform on collecting your accounts receivable and has increased contingency fees to an exorbitant amount. • The insurance administrator delivers the news that your patient base will decrease by 15% since the State of Georgia has removed dental care from the PeachCare for Kids program. • The appointment coordinator is trying to fill cancelled appointments for an elderly couple who decided to go to a local denture office and purchase their dentures from a denturist. Could any of this ever happen? Definitely; these scenarios were almost all a reality, but thanks to the efforts of the Georgia Dental Association you are still able to practice dentistry and provide the quality care that your patients expect. All of these possible scenarios were pre-empted by the aggressive actions of your GDA. Consider that: • The GDA provided documentation and testimony to convince the Department of Labor some years ago that dentists should not be required to have autoclaves inspected nor pay annual fees. • On more than one occasion the GDA lobbied on your behalf to prevent local and state governments from requiring you to pay a percentage of gross revenues as an “occupation tax.” Unlike many other professions, dentists can pay a flat fee of $400 instead.
• Understanding the need for dentists to have an ethical, professional collection agency, you now have the benefit of using the GDA’s debt collection agency subsidiary PDRS. You can rest assured that your patients will be treated professionally and that PDRS will work diligently on your behalf. • The GDA works to maintain your patient base through its advocacy efforts under the Gold Dome. Through its LAW Day programs and professional lobbying services, the GDA has made the practice of dentistry without a license a felony (denturists), has saved the dental program in PeachCare for Kids numerous times, and also monitors numerous small business issues that could impact your ability to continue to practice the way you do currently. The GDA not only advocates on your behalf to preserve your practice, your Association also provides numerous services and benefits that ease your workload. Are you aware that the GDA: • Can assist with patient complaint resolution through the Peer Review process thereby saving you time, helping with patient goodwill, and perhaps avoiding costly law suits; • Serves as the resource for spokespersons to the media on all topics related to dentistry and oral health and the promotion of the profession; • Can assist with contract analysis before you participate in an insurance plan; • Provides up-to-date information and news relevant to the profession through GDA Action and www.gadental.org;
(OSHA, infection control, HIPAA, waste disposal, x-ray certification), and CE; • Provides support for dentists and their family or staff members who have chemical dependency, depression, or other well-being issues; • Maintains a subsidiary (GDIS) that provides excellent insurance products for you and your staff and accessibility to a highly qualified staff of insurance experts who work on your behalf; • Serves as your office’s extra staffer on any issue arising in your office; highly experienced staff members are at your disposal to help you or your staff to find answers or resolve issues. The GDA prides itself on being a member-driven organization responding to our members’ needs and requests. We receive requests for information and assistance with all sorts of matters and no question is an unreasonable one. For instance, one member called for assistance on how to get a passport renewed within a 36-hour period for an upcoming trip to England and another dentist asked for help in locating a dental school classmate. For our members, thank you for maintaining membership in the Georgia Dental Association. Especially in these challenging times, it is important to know that the GDA continues to advocate on your behalf on the many issues affecting your practice and stands ready to assist you. For those dentists who are not currently members, please consider joining. You can benefit from membership at a reduced cost through the end of 2010. Contact the GDA office at (404) 636-7553 or email Pam Yungk at yungk@gadental.org.
• Assists dentists with Medicaid issues and provides the Care Management Organizations with accurate information to dispute the need for drastic or onerous program changes; • Serves as a staff training resource with collection issues, regulatory compliance
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FISHER FOUNDATION Continued from page 16 of Georgia to complete their education. The Foundation is soliciting special 25th anniversary donations from former Foundation scholars via letter this summer, and is encouraging dentists to give generously on both their GDA dues statements this fall, and securely online at www.gadental.org. Fisher Dental Education Foundation Board of Directors President: Dr. John Harden Jr., Northern District Vice President: Mr. Dale Crail, Director of Development, MCG School of Dentistry Secretary: Mrs. Beverly Allen, GDA Alliance Treasurer: Mr. Randall Carroll, Vice Chairman, Bank of North Georgia Dr. Joseph Baughman, Northern District Dr. Richard Bennett, Northern District Dr. Charles Clark, Southwestern District Nominee Dr. Connie Drisko, Dean, MCG School of Dentistry Dr. Jonathan Dubin, Northern District Dr. Emile Fisher, Northern District Dr. Paul Fraysure, Central District Dr. Matt Grill, Southeastern District Nominee Dr. Michael Hagearty, Northern District Ms. Delaine Hall, GDA Director of Communications Dr. Carole Hanes, Associate Dean, MCG School of Dentistry Dr. Jay Harris, Western District Dr. Lance Huthwaite, Northern District Dr. Matt Mazzawi, Northern District Dr. Randall Phillips, Northern District Dr. Robin Reich, Northwestern District Dr. Jimmy Talbot, Northwestern District Dr. Douglas Torbush, Northern District
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Timeline of Key Fisher Foundation Events September 1984: In Action, GDA President Jay McCaslin V discussed his desire to form a foundation that “could solicit funding … used to promote dental health; to promote dental education through loans, scholarships, grants, and fellowships; to stimulate more awareness of the need for dental services by the people of Georgia; to support other beneficent dental activities such as the Ben Massell Dental Clinic; and to provide dental care in certain limited situations.” He stated that he had formed an ad hoc committee chaired by Dr. Emile Fisher to look at the concept of creating a dental foundation. February 1985: The House of Delegates voted to establish the Georgia Dental Education Foundation (GDEF). The House directed the proposed slate of officers to prepare guidelines for the Foundation and present them to the next House of Delegates before funding would be approved. The guidelines were submitted as requested, and in August 1985 the House resolved to fund the Foundation with a one-time contribution of $50,000. August 1985: The Georgia Secretary of State and IRS awarded the Foundation 501(c)(3) charitable status on August 20, 1985. The GDEF’s initial slate of officers: President Dr. Russ Ragsdale (Northwestern) and board members Drs. D.T. Walton Jr. (Central), Bill Wege (Eastern), Bill Callahan (Northern), Leon Aronson (Southeastern), Ed Gandy (Southwestern), Leo Berard (Western), and Emile Fisher (At Large). Dr. Wege was the second president, and Dr. Fisher the third. December 1988: The GDEF held its first CE fundraiser, a full-day program by Dr. Harald Heymann. The Foundation organized a series of these events to raise funds for scholarships and the GDEF’s indigent care division. Famed clinicians such as Dr. Parker Mahan and Dr. Irwin Becker would forego their honorariums, and local hotels would donate space and AV equipment to enable the Foundation to maximize fundraising. This first event netted $15,000. Spring 1989: The GDEF initiated a Donated Dental Services program. The program matched volunteer dentists with patients certified as indigent by the Georgia Department of Health.
Fall 1989: The GDEF awarded $11,000 in state dental hygiene scholarships. The funding came primarily from the Georgia Society of Periodontists which earmarked GDEF donations specifically for hygiene students. The GDEF also contributed $6,000 to help fund a dental hygiene instructor position at a new program coordinated by Gainesville College and Lanier Technical Institute. January 1996: The GDEF created a scholarship in memory of Dr. R. Stan Hopkins which was intended to provide full tuition for an MCG dental student. The first recipient was Blair Waldron. The Foundation still awards the scholarship, but the rising cost of dental education means the amount of the scholarship does not cover the cost of tuition. January 1999: Dr. Lance Huthwaite is installed as GDEF president. He was the first Foundation scholarship recipient to serve as president of the Foundation. Spring 1999: Dr. Mike Miller inaugurated a Tour de Floss GDEF fundraising effort. He gathered pledges for his participation in the statewide cycling event. He conducted the race fundraiser for eight years, raising $76,000 for the GDEF. January 2005: The GDEF board voted to rename the organization as the Emile T. Fisher Foundation for Dental Education in Georgia. Dr. Fisher, an original GDEF board member as well as a retired Atlanta periodontist, also began a scholarship fund at the Medical College of Georgia in 1969. Every MCG dental school class has since included students who have benefitted from Dr. Fisher’s generosity either through individual donations or via the Foundation. October 2006: The Foundation’s corpus reached a value of $1 million ($1,038,248) after 20 years of fundraising efforts. August 2010: The Foundation celebrates 25 years of funding dental education with a special fundraising campaign and recognition by the Governor’s office. The Foundation has provided more than $750,000 in scholarships since its inception.
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board minutes Minutes from the June 19, 2010, Board of Trustees Meeting Editor’s Note: Only the persons present and resolutions produced are printed here. Full minutes are available at www.gadental.org in the member’s only section, and can be provided upon request to those members without access to the Internet. Call (800) 432-4357 or (404) 636-7553.
President Kent Percy convened the Board of Trustees at 9:07 a.m. Present were Dr. Kent Percy, chair; Drs. Robert Carpenter, Byron Colley, Jonathan Dubin, Mark Dusek, Jay Harrington, Jay Harris, Jeff Kendrick, Ty Ivey (for Mike Loden), Grant Loo, Kara Moore, Wilkie Stadeker (for Terry O’Shea), Robin Reich, Steve Sample, Jeff Singleton, Sidney Tourial, Mike Vernon, Richard Weinman, Erik Wells. Absent: Dr. Jim Hall; Guests: Drs. Jack Bickford, Bruce Camp, Nancy Gallagher, Marshall Mann, Jay Phillips, Jim Reynierson, Doug Torbush. GDA staff: Martha Phillips, Carrie Carter, Nelda Greene, Delaine Hall, Skip Jones, Courtney Layfield, Melana McClatchey.
Trustees to approve the recommendation of the Patient Protection Task Force to accept the Academy of General Dentistry’s (AGD) definition of ‘access to care’ as printed in the AGD White paper, “Increasing Access to and Utilization of Oral Health Care Services.” The motion passed unanimously.
Patient Protection Task Force The task force distributed a draft copy of the “White Paper on Georgia’s Oral Health Status, Access to and Utilization of Oral Health Care Services” for the BOT to review. [10-6.03] Dr. Richard Weinman moved for the BOT to approve the document as presented by the Patient Protection Task Force (PPTF), “White
Committee Reports The Board of Trustees reviewed the following committee reports.
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President’s Report American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry’s Head Start Dental Home Initiative: Dr. Anthea Mazzawi provided information on the AAPD’s partnership with the Office of Head Start to provide dental homes for young children and to request that the GDA support this program by helping to educate GDA members on their Head Start Dental Home Initiative. [10-6.01] Dr. Erik Wells moved for the GDA to support the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry’s Head Start Dental Home Initiative, which strives to find dental homes for the 23,000 Head Start and Early Head Start children in Georgia. The motion passed unanimously. Definition of ‘access to care’: Dr. Kent Percy presented BOT motion 10-4.06, which was postponed from the April meeting, concerning approval of the AGD’s definition of access to care. [10-6.02] Dr. Richard Weinman moved for the Board of GDA ACTION AUGUST 2010
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Paper on Georgia’s Oral Health Status, Access to and Utilization of Oral Health Care Services,” as interim policy until the House of Delegates convenes in July and for the BOT to grant approval for the PPTF to make any necessary changes at its June 19 meeting. The BOT further recommends that the GDA President utilize this document as deemed appropriate at the July 18 ADA Workforce Meeting in Chicago. The motion passed unanimously.
Membership Services It was reported that Dr. Mike Yarbrough will be stepping down as the liaison for the Dental Recovery Network. [10-6.04] Dr. Richard Weinman moved for the BOT to commend Dr. Mike Yarbrough for his outstanding service with the Dental Recovery Network. The motion passed unanimously. Finance Committee
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Dr. Jay Phillips reported that the Finance Committee met June 11 to develop the FY2011 budget and to handle other matters of the association. He presented the 2010-11 budget as recommended by the Finance Committee. [10-6.05] Dr. Jay Phillips moved for the Board of Trustees to approve the FY2011 budget as recommended and presented by the Finance Committee. The motion passed unanimously. [10-6.06] Dr. Jay Phillips moved for the Board of Trustees to approve the recommendation of the Finance Committee to approve Officite as an endorsed product. The motion passed unanimously. [10-6.07] Dr. Jay Phillips moved for the Board of Trustees to approve the recommendation of the Finance Committee to establish a public charity named ‘Healthy Smiles for Georgia’ pending approval of the name by the State. The motion passed unanimously.
[10-6.08] Dr. Jay Phillips moved for the monies that are collected for the GDA public charity within the next 14 months be used only for the 2011 GMOM project. The motion passed unanimously. [10-6.09] Dr. Jeff Kendrick moved for the GDA to include the GMOM project with an amount of $25 as one of the GDA voluntary items pending notification that space is available for this placement on the GDA Dues Statement. The motion passed unanimously.
Adjourn Being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 3:00 p.m. Editor’s Note: Actions at the July 2010 House of Delegates may have superceded these resolutions. Visit www.gadental.org for minutes from all meetings.
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classified ads How GDA members can place classified ads AD FORM: Submit all ads on a GDA Classified Advertisement Form. To obtain a form, call Courtney Layfield at (800) 432-4357 or (404) 636-7553, or email layfield@gadental.org. (Note: The GDA may accept or reject any ad for any reason and in its sole discretion.)
AD DEADLINE: Ads and ad check payments are due by the first of the month before the publication month (i.e., Dec. 1 for January).
AD RATES: ADA member dentists pay $75.00 per 60-word ad per month. There is a 25 cents per-word charge for each word over 60. Non-dentist-owned companies (real estate firms, etc.) pay $195 per 60-word ad per month (additional word charges as above). Non-member dentists may not place ads.
LATE FEE: Ads for which full prepayment is not received by the first day of the ad’s publication month (i.e.; Nov. 1 for a November ad) will incur a $25 late fee in addition to the ad rate.
FORMS OF PAYMENT: Submit a check or money order with the ad form. (Make checks payable to GDA.) Credit cards are not accepted as payment.
WEB SITE PLACEMENT: Prepaid ads will appear on the GDA Web site www.gadental.org for the month the ad appears in print. Non-prepaid ads will NOT be placed online.
Dental Related Services
Equipment For Sale
X-RAY SAFETY CERTIFICATION for assistants is required by Georgia law. This up-to-date take-home course has effectively certified thousands of x-ray machine operators. Send $149.99 per registrant with name(s) to: Dr. Rick Waters, 285 Pinewood Circle, Athens, GA 30606. Visit www.gaxray.com for credit card payment or to use the immediate-access online version. Call (706) 255-4499 for more information.
Panorex for sale. Gendex GX Panorex. Excellent Condition. Uses Film. Great for ScanX image scanning. $2500. Contact Dr. Portia Grayson at info@drgraysonmurray.com.
Is Your Marketing in Trouble? Learn how to avoid the most common dental marketing mistakes that lead to: 1. Below Average Case Acceptance; 2. Slow New Patient Acquisitions; 3. Perplexingly Poor Patient Retention Rates. Get Answers. Find Solutions. DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE REPORT at http://www.DentalMarketing911.info. A free gift from your friends at w w w. Ta r g e t D e n t a l M a r k e t i n g . c o m , Kennesaw, Georgia (678) 466-6497.
Dentists Available for Locum Tenens Dentist Available Daily (DAD): Dentist available during vacations, emergencies and CE courses. Leave your practice in well-trained hands. I am licensed, insured and have a DEA registration number so I can write prescriptions. Call Dr. Richard Patrick at (770) 993-8838.
Positions Available Specialist Wanted: Ideal opportunity in one of Georgia’s fastest growing communities. Great schools and neighborhoods. 12003600 sf of Class A office space in a dental complex. Existing 50+ year old general practice with on-site cone beam technology, Pediatric, and Orthodontic practices. Competitive rent, generous build-out allowance, and existing opportunity for subletting vacated space through March of 2011. Any inquiries call (770) 235-2288. Experienced Orthodontist needed for busy multi-location practice. Must be kind and humble and dedicated to the best care of our patients. Interested? Please contact Atlanta Orthodontic Care Centers at (770) 948-1000. Associate Dentist. Established dynamic practice offers a unique opportunity for motivated professionals. Multiple locations available. No empty chairs … No insurance claims problems … With career high income potential and no daily office / overhead challenges. Contact Tina Titshaw at tina@myrockdale.com, call (678) 4138130, or fax resume to (770) 760-1375.
DENTIST: Need Part Time Fill In? Vacation, Illness, Maternity? GENERAL DENTIST SOLD LONG ESTABLISHED PRACTICE. GA & DEA LICENSED. (Available Expanded Atlanta Area.) Cell: (404) 219-4097 Home: (404) 842-1196 Jesse Hader, DDS. Dentist available during emergencies, vacation, CDE courses. I have a current license, DEA certificate and insurance. Contact me at (706) 291-2254 or cell (706) 802-7760. I hope I can be of service to you. Patrick A. Parrino, DDS, MAGD.
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Pediatric Dentist Needed in Atlanta Practice. Pediatric Dentist with enthusiasm and high energy needed in well-established Atlanta area practice. Competitive salary and benefits including paid professional liability insurance, vacation, and holiday pay! Experienced pediatric dentists and new graduates are encouraged to apply. Forward resume to Jackie at info@familyandchildrensdentistry.com or fax to (404) 349-8459. For more information on our practice, visit us on the web www.familyandchildrensdentistry.com. Full time general dentist needed in the Acworth area. High tech office, excellent team and great working environment. New grads are welcome. Please email resume to: lakepointe@gmail.com.
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Special Dental Associate Opportunity: Are you looking for a place to grow and prosper? Our exceptional practice in West Cobb County is primarily fee for service and has a robust hygiene department. We have a dedicated and well trained team that provides family, cosmetic, sedation, and implant dentistry in a modern facility. The senior doctor has 22 years of practice experience to enrich a unique opportunity for a special candidate who has similar goals and values. After an introductory period, an invitation to purchase a portion of this high quality practice may be extended, with more buy-in potential in the future. Please only serious inquires for this once in a lifetime opportunity need to apply by email to: drmulkey@att.net.
Practices / Office Space Available Well established practice for sale in Northlake Tucker Area. Strictly fee-forservice, no managed care plans, 2300 sq. ft. at $10 / sq ft. Motivated seller due to disability. Send inquiries and resume to RMK1@bellsouth.net or call (770) 641-1666. Duluth, GA. Modern Pediatric Dental Office Space—2620 sq ft and lots of storage. With Lease Hold Improvements, Equipment, Furnishings. Easy start up with min. costs. High traffic area near Gwinnett Place Mall. Available August 2010. Tammy or Fran at (770) 497-9111. Kennesaw / Cobb County: Beautiful dental suite available immediately. There are 3 operatories plumbed. General dentist is looking to share space with a specialist. The suite is also available for sale / lease / rent to a dental specialist. Please contact Dr. Kay Kalantari at (404) 452-0786.
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SPECIALISTS: North Georgia Mountains. Space available for rent in growing area. Five equipped operatories, business office and reception furniture in place, wired for your computer system, ready to move right in. Eye-catching two story glass building in high-traffic area. One general dentist and a government agency already in building. Great for satellite office, solo or shared, or full-time. (706) 745-6848. Established Duluth Paperless Dental Practice for Sale. $550,000 Production, 4 days a week. Good location. Low rent. 5 ops, Good staff that would like to stay with buyer. Tremendous potential. Email jasoncampbelldds@gmail.com. Space Available—Hiram—Finished dental space available from 1,128 - 2,441 square feet with up to 6 operatories. Great place to start a dental practice with minimum cost. Ask about free rent. Call for more information (770) 445-0071 Ext. 18 or email mhough@ssiland.com.
North GA Mountains: Well-established PRACTICE for sale in beautiful consistently growing area. Modern equipment. Computers in all operatories. Mountain views. Enthusiastic cross-trained staff. Ideal for solo or group practice. Also for sale ten year old eye-catching glass professional BUILDING available separately or with practice. National recognition for office design. 10,000 square feet housing this practice plus a state agency. Highly traveled highway frontage. The best of a big-city practice in a relaxed country atmosphere and a warm, friendly patient environment. (706) 745-6848.
PEACHTREE CITY AREA, GA. Want to make over $300K your first year? This is a FFS / PPO, bread and butter practice grossing over $750K. Hygiene produces 30% in this well established practice of over 30 years. There are 5 equipped operatories. This practice brings in on average of 30 new patients per month. Seller is retiring and flexible with transition plans. Call Southeast Transitions at (678) 4827305 or email michelle@southeasttransitions.com or visit www.southeasttransitions.com for more details on this and other opportunities.
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LAKE HARTWELL AREA, GA. All FFS / PPO practice is located in a free standing building with 4 ops; real estate is for sale with the practice. This well-established practice of over 30 years is collecting $600K per year. Terrific hygiene department producing 35%! Call Southeast Transitions at (678) 482-7305 or email michelle@southeasttransitions.com or visit www.southeasttransitions.com for more details on this and other opportunities.
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SOUTH ATLANTA, OUTSIDE PERIMETER, GA. Very BUSY practice that is continuing to grow! This beautiful family practice has recently been updated and remodeled. There are a total of 8 chairs and 3,100 sq ft in a free standing building. The practice is open 5 days per week and produced over $1M in 2009. Want new patients? This practice generates an average of 90 new patients per month! This practice provides a good mix of patients and procedures. Don’t wait! Call Southeast Transitions at (678) 482-7305 or email michelle@southeasttransitions.com or visit www.southeasttransitions.com for more details on this and other opportunities.
TROUP COUNTY, GA WITH REAL ESTATE. Well-established practice of over 35 years providing comprehensive dentistry. This practice offers a solid patient base of over 2,000 active patients. Hygiene dept. is 35% and this office is on an uphill trend producing over $750K last year. There are 4 equipped ops; free standing building for sale also. Seller is retiring and will work for the buyer to transition the patients and staff. Call Southeast Transitions at (678) 482-7305 or email michelle@southeasttransitions.com or visit www.southeasttransitions.com for more details on this and other opportunities.
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Practices for Sale: ATLANTA #6276 Gross collections $240,015; 4 days; 3 operatories; 926 sq. ft. office space. ATLANTA #8575 Gross collections $456,922; 4 days; 5 operatories; 1,838 sq. ft. office space; additional plumbed but unequipped operatory. ATLANTA #8548 Great opportunity! At $197,000 it is less than ďŹ the price of a start-up! 6 operatories; 1,900 sq. ft. office space. ATLANTA #6689 Gross collections $1,623,532; 4 days; 7 operatories; 2850 sq. ft. office space. AUGUSTA AREA - ORTHO #8681 1 operatory/2 chairs; Gross collections $268,032; 3.5 days, 960 sq. ft. office space. CARROLL COUNTY #8428 Gross collections $619,384; 4 days; 4 operatories; 2,000 sq. ft. office space; additional plumbed but unequipped operatory. NW GEORGIA #8193 PRICE REDUCED!!! Gross collections $1.04 Million; 4 days; 5 operatories; 1,800 sq. ft. office space. NW
GEORGIA #8455 Gross Collections $1.06 Million; 4 days; 5 operatories; 2450 sq. ft. office space. NW GEORGIA #8562 Gross collections $670,375; 4 days; 6 operatories; 2,881 sq. ft. office space; additional plumbed but unequipped operatory. SOUTHEASTERN GEORGIA #8172 Gross collections $752,638; 4 days; 5 operatories; 1,732 sq. ft. office space. PAULDING COUNTY #3001 Gross collections $643,500; 4 days 5 operatories; 2,000 sq. ft. office space. CARROLLTON #8736 Owner recently passed away. Sales price is $568,000. For information, call Dr. Earl Douglas, (770) 664-1982 or email Earl@adssouth.com.
Available: ALPHARETTA: Beautiful, new, 4 ops, satellite 2 days/week. ATLANTA: Partnership. $2.4 million FFS practice. 9 operatories. DULUTH: Merger. EAST COBB: Grossing $854,000. GWINNETT: Grossing $823,000, 8 operatories. JOHNS CREEK: Gorgeous, 4 operatories grossing $289,000. JASPER: Grossing $350,000. JOHNS CREEK: FFS Merger. NORCROSS: Grossing $580,000, 4 operatories. SNELLVILLE: Merger into beautiful new facility. Contact Richane Swedenburg, New South Dental Transitions: (770) 630-0436, Check new listings, www.newsouthdental.com; info@newsouthdental.com.
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breaking the mold Dr. Travis Smith Inspired by Church Carving to Take Up Creative Woodworking A word to those who love art: If you invite Travis Smith, DMD, as a house guest, you might end up with a hand-carved sculpture as a thank-you gift. “My wife and I recently enjoyed an island vacation,” said Dr. Smith, an assistant professor at the Medical College of Georgia School of Dentistry. “As a gift to the individuals who loaned us their home, I decided to carve a circular decoration that will feature a sailboat. The piece will be five feet wide and custom-created to fit an unfinished opening in the homeowner’s wall.”
An end table in Dr. Smith’s living room fashioned from a tree burl, or growth on a tree’s trunk.
This is not the only marine-themed carving Dr. Smith has tackled. “My son, a yacht broker in Tampa, Florida, asked me for a sport fish carving for his home,” said the MCG graduate. “He had seen driftwood fish sculptures in stores around the area, but wanted something special. I told him I would be happy to carve the fish if he helped me find the wood.”
Dr. Smith takes a chain saw to wood destined to be a sporting fish sculpture.
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After an afternoon of hunting around Lake Clarks Hill nestled on the Georgia / South Carolina border, the father and son team found a large stump that “had the internal anatomical features of a fish—I could visualize that,” said Dr. Smith. The duo dug up the stump and transported it back to Dr. Smith’s home, where he started the carving process. “First, you go through the gross reduction of the wood, called ‘wasting wood’,” said Dr. Smith. “To prepare the stump, I used a chain saw to remove everything that was, well, not a fish. Then, you start to shape the wood more accurately. I use a Fordham high speed flexible shaft tool to accomplish this. Third, you move into the fine details that I create with chisels, files, and scrapers. Of course, sandpaper is always the last tool you use.” After several weeks, Dr. Smith’s son became the owner of sport fish “trophy” that now occupies a place of pride in his living room. Dr. Smith has also created décor for his own home. “I used to live in South Georgia near the Alapaha River,” he said. “One day, I was out canoeing, and saw this fallen tupelo tree with a huge cancer, or burl. This is a growth on a tree usually caused by an injury or infection. The tree cells grow wildly in these burls, creating unique patterns. I converted a burl from this tupelo into a coffee table for my living room.” After his first burl project, he tackled another burl from a green, living tree. After seven years of work and waiting for the living wood to cure, he produced an end table for his living room. “The grain inside of a burl is incredibly beautiful, especially when it is stained,” said Dr. Smith. “The end result was worth the effort.” Dr. Smith credits a transformative experience in the early 1980s with his continuing interest in woodworking. He had never carved anything more than a Boy Scout neckerchief slide (or wax-up for a crown) when he felt called to fashion a
Dr. Smith spent 14 months carving this crucifix figure for his local church in the 1980s.
crucifix for his church in Tifton. He signed up for a woodworking course which placed him in contact with professionals who gave him tools and advice. After 14 months and 800 hours of work (most of the carving was done in a spare bedroom in his home to the occasional despair of his wife), the crucifix was placed within the church building.* “I have never experienced such wonderful abandonment in my life as while I was completing that figure,” said Dr. Smith. “The feeling of being creative is as close as we humans can come to being in God’s image. We dentists work in such a tiny space all day. To expand that creativity to a larger space is a terrific feeling.” After finishing the sailboat wall decoration for his island hosts, Dr. Smith will definitely keep an eye out for other projects. “It all depends on the wood I find, and what I can visualize,” he said. *The story of how Dr. Smith created the crucifix may be found at http://stannestifton.com.
The sporting fish carving painted and ready to hang on the wall.
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Inside This Issue • Making a Difference in Georgia with the Mission of Mercy • Dental Education Foundation Celebrates 25th Anniversary
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