sfdda Volume 62, No.3 www.sfdda.org Spring 2021
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Inside this issue:
State Mandated Courses in One Day!, pg. 2
President’s Message, pg. 3
The Little Engine That Could: How a Small Local Dental Society Succeeded in Helping “One of Their Own,” Dr. Cesar Sabates, Become Our Next ADA President-Elect, - Richard A. Mufson, DDS, Editor, pg. 4
Havana Nights!, pg. 6
One-Day Wellness Event, pg. 7
Don’t Worry-Be Active, Dr. Richard Sherman, pg. 8
Affiliate Dinner Meetings - Good Things are Happening!, pg. 10
COVID-19 Updates- FDA, pg. 12
Classifieds, pg. 15
Fun Facts About Our Podcast!, pg. 15
President’s Message -Mariana Velazquez, D.M.D.
Hello Fellow Members,
I would like to start by saying it has been an honor to serve as the president of the SFDDA. This has been for all a very particular year with unique challenges and unprecedented events. And our dental profession has not been the exception.
Starting with the mandate to shut down dental offices, to struggling with maintaining and/or furloughing our staff, to requesting loans, reopening our offices, reinforcing disinfection protocols, acquiring PPE, rehiring staff and attempting to get vaccinated, we have definitely had to reinvent ourselves in this process. Looking back, we are proud to say that we have come through this better than we expected.
In my opinion, the SFDDA has played a very important role in this. We have come up with new ways to reach out to our members to keep them up to date and informed about our ever-changing situation during this time. We felt that this was the perfect opportunity to boost our social media presence and to create new pathways of communication. Our Facebook and Instagram pages are now more effective than ever, and our updated website has been well received.
We have created our very own podcast which features our members and friends in the dental community talking about different issues and topics. It has proven to be very successful and entertaining.
I am glad to report that despite these difficult circumstances, the SFDDA has remained financially strong and the membership has remained steady and loyal. I cannot help but give a shout-out again to the SFDDA being part of Dr. Cesar Sabates’s campaign and victory. And, he became the first Cuban American ADA President-Elect, and the first from Florida. We wish him all the best and we are here to support him.
I would like to thank all of the people that have been part of this journey, including my fellow SFDDA line officers, Drs. Oscar Peguero, Ernie Perez, John Aylmer, and Orlando Dominguez, as well as our council members and our wonderful staff, Yolanda, Jackie and Victoria.
While a lot has been done there is always room for improvement, and I am sure that our president-elect, Dr. Ernesto Perez will do a wonderful job next year.
Please stay safe, and I look forward to meeting you all in the near future as we commence our in-person meetings, hopefully in the fall, and of course at our state mandated courses in October, “Havana Nights” in December and our full day wellness event with Dr. Uche Odiatu the following day.
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The Little Engine That Could: How a Small Local Dental Society Succeeded in Helping “One of Their Own,” Dr. Cesar Sabates, Become Our Next ADA President-Elect "I think I can. I think I can. I think I can. I know I can.”
This, the well-known quote appearing in the American folktale, existing in the form of several illustrated children's books and films, is used to teach children the value of optimism and hard work.
One must wonder or ask the question: How does a small local dental organization in the middle of nowhere (OK, in the middle of South Florida) help a dedicated, humble, well-respected and valued local member of organized dentistry – with little help from outside groups or resources - become elected to the highest office within the dental profession? And that would be President-Elect, who then becomes President, of the American Dental Association. Dr. Sabates (hereafter referred to as Cesar) would also have the unique distinction of representing the first-ever ADA President from Florida and, celebrating our society’s ever-advancing move toward greater diversity, the first Cuban American to ever hold this office.
As a backdrop to this amazing story, three other candidates from Florida have run for ADA President-Elect over the past decade, all very qualified, but unfortunately without success in mustering enough votes in the annual ADA House of Delegates to reach this elusive (for Floridians, at least) office.
As yet another backdrop to the story would be the highly unanticipated and life-altering worldwide COVID-19 pandemic, which would certainly add a serious curveball at the least opportune time for Cesar, and to those looking to see him achieve this life-long dream within the profession of dentistry.
When Cesar first decided to run, and then started campaigning in November 2019, pre-pandemic life was “normal” and meetings were live and “in-person.” As we all now know, this would soon drastically change with the onset of the global pandemic, and the significant momentum Cesar had begun to achieve at
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- Richard A. Mufson, DDS, Editor
the local level of affiliate meetings, would then be threatened by larger state and national meetings going “virtual.”
And, the usual campaign practice of traveling outside of Florida to numerous state dental association and district caucuses to personally deliver one’s message and platform was both suddenly and certainly not an option. Adding yet another challenge to the dynamic of campaigning and getting one’s message out to the masses would be the ensuing presidential campaign leading up to the November 2020 election. So how in Heaven’s name would this unanticipated adversity be transformed into positive energy and hopefully a positive outcome for Cesar’s campaign?
The answer turned out to be found in a number of creative and talented individuals, all joining forces to work on Cesar’s behalf, while bringing together a combination of unique and innovative ideas, expertise, foresight, determination and hard work. “The Little Engine That Could” was on the tracks, ready to roll, and while clearly envisioning the very large and formidable mountain in front of it, knew that it was more than ready to climb and overtake it.
So, with travel and in-person campaign messaging out of the question, the wheels of ideas and creativity began to churn, a ray of light shone in through every window in the SFDDA office, and the answer to this became clear: It would be found within the high-tech world of virtual communication via “ZOOM” and other forms of social media.
To this end, our SFDDA Executive Director, Yolanda Marrero, with the help of Cesar’s campaign manager, Dr. Michael Eggnatz, answered the calling and jumped into action.
A team of veritable “A-listers” was called upon and assembled, each with their own unique skill set of experience and creativity.
The team consisted of a tech and social media guru, Dr. Mark Limosani, a lighting and sound engineer, Jhorna Castañez, a graphic artist and audio-visual editor, Victoria Marrero, an acting and voice coach, Valentina Izarra (also Mark’s wife), who were “all hands on deck” to help Cesar take his already-solid appearance and messaging nationally to the highest level possible for a successful “virtual” campaign. Yolanda, drawing on her past experience from her days at WTMI Radio, and with help from Victoria, had also helped transform the South Florida District office into a professionalstyle audio-visual studio.
A significant amount of research took place, and was devoted to ensure that all facets of Cesar’s presentations – including wardrobe, lighting, types and models of microphones used, cameras, and other broadcasting equipment brought in - would result in optimal video and sound quality, a warm and inviting feeling, and at the highest level possible for the purpose of Zoom-style communication.
Although one of Cesar’s well-known strengths is speaking to others in person, achieving a similar level through virtual technology would understandably be quite a different calling. This is where others on the team came into play.
Valentina, the voice coach, helped Cesar’s on-camera demeanor and appearance, while Jhorna worked with lighting, shadow elimination, color balance and sound to assure the sharpest image and audio-visual quality possible. Victoria also helped run through “test” Zoom sessions to perfect his presentations. Mark and Victoria also worked hard with Cesar’s messaging on his Facebook campaign group page.
Then came the complicated task of Yolanda and Michael managing and arranging the complex schedules of the many nationwide state and ADA district caucus presentations, which required jumping through hoops and over hurdles to deal with overlapping meetings elsewhere and four U.S. time zones.
It must be said that over three months of effort – nights, weekends, and many hours in the day, often stretching into the night – went into this effort.
“Speak, Oh Glorious Cesar, Speak!”
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Then came Cesar’s turn - to speak – with a great deal of preparation, and as so few are inherently experienced and gifted at doing. He delivered his message, talking points, and answered a complex array of questions from far and wide on a range of issues facing the ADA. His performance was both forthright and well-informed, thanks to his years of work and experience gained on ADA committees and councils dealing with finances, budget, elder care and myriad other pertinent topics of the day. He also conveyed the feeing to others that he truly is one of them, and if elected, would “have their backs.”
So, we must give credit where credit is due. Cesar was no doubt the driving force behind “The Little Engine That Could,” and with legendary help from others, he took his train and overcame this seemingly insurmountable hill.
The exhilarating news would then arrive on election day (no, not the one involving Joe Biden), when on October 19, 2020, the A-list team hunkered down in the district office “War Room,” filled with balloons, campaign colors, decorations, some decadent sugar-laden cookies and other treats, and most important – champagne chilled in an ice bucket, ready to be uncorked when the news so anticipated would come through.
And Bam! Snap! There it was. The news arrived that Cesar had been elected ADA President-Elect! A celebration with partying, high-fives, high-tens, even “chest bumps” was then the order of the day, along with the unbelievable gasp and feeling of, “OMG! We did it!!”
Much credit and thanks must also go out to all of those among you who were donors to Cesar’s campaign, and all who made calls, sent emails, letters and spread the word – for all of you were also a vital and much-appreciated part of Cesar’s successful campaign and “The Little Engine That Could.” "I think I can. I think I can. I think I can. I know I can.”
References:
1. History of the World Part 1, Mel Brooks, 1981.
Richard Mufson is the Editor of the South Florida District Newsletter, and may be contacted at (305) 935-7501 or MufsonOralSurg@aol.com 5
1950’s
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If You Have Not Done So, Please Renew Your ADA Membership. When the world locked down, we didn’t.
The COVID-19 pandemic has shown us that anything can happen to affect our way of life and our profession.
The American, Florida and South Florida District Dental Associations have worked together to keep you informed, from PPE to PPP and more. We did the work so you wouldn’t have to.
Now more than ever, we need for you to renew your membership so we can continue to work hard on your behalf. Renew by phone, email or on-line. And we have payment options to make it easier for you. We’ve got your back!
Dr. Richard Sherman’s 1997 Message - still relevant today.
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We’re currently working on the 2021-22 Affiliate Dinner Meetings - Good Things are Happening! North Dade: Location TBD* October 5, 2021 November 2, 2021 February1, 2022 March 1, 2022
Miami Dade: Casa Juancho* September 14, 2021 October 19, 2021 November 9, 2021 February 8, 2022 March 8, 2022
South Broward: Tropical Acres* September 8, 2021 October 20, 2021 November 17, 2021 February 9, 2022 March 9, 2022
Registration for SFDDA Events and Affiliate Meeting will be available at www.sfdda.org.
If you prefer to register for any event by paper form or by phone, please call us at (305) 667-3647. We are happy to help! * Dates and locations are tentative. Make sure to check your emails for updates and registration for the affiliate dinner meetings.
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This information was initially sent to members of the Florida Dental Association (FDA) on May 20. We are resending today to ensure receipt and hope that the information will be helpful to you as you run your practice. Information about COVID-related liability highlighted below.
There have been changes in mask mandates from the Florida governor and mask guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for those who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. However, it is important to note that there have been no recent changes in guidance for health care settings, including dental offices.
We know that masks and face shields will continue to be worn in dental treatment rooms and operatories; however, the FDA has received inquiries from members regarding waiting rooms, consultation rooms, break areas, etc. Be sure to get your team’s feedback prior to making changes, as many employee concerns have stemmed from lack of communication within the office. As we have consistently stated, the FDA recommends that you use your medical judgment about what you believe to be best for your patients and staff. Some key questions and their answers:
What guidance has the CDC issued for health care personnel while at work? The CDC’s health care recommendations were last updated on April 27 and apply to all health care facilities, including dental offices. The CDC guidance does state, “In general, fully vaccinated health care personnel should continue to wear [personal protective equipment] while at work.” This applies to actively treating patients.
Can I require masks in the waiting room? Yes. Because dental offices are private businesses, you can require masks in the waiting room or other common areas.
What if we have a “mask optional” policy in the waiting room but a patient isn’t comfortable with it? Making masks optional in your waiting room doesn’t prohibit patients from wearing them. Encourage patients to wear masks if that’s what they prefer. Also, nearly all practices have systems for patients to wait in their cars rather than the waiting room. Consider offering this as an option for patients
who aren’t vaccinated or don’t feel comfortable in the waiting room.
Do employees need to wear masks and social distance in the breakroom? If everyone on staff is fully vaccinated, there is no longer a need to wear masks or socially distance in break rooms. If there are individuals who are not vaccinated, there should be more caution. The CDC states: “… fully vaccinated health care personnel (HCP) could dine and socialize together in break rooms and conduct in-person meetings without source control or physical distancing. If unvaccinated HCP are present, everyone should wear [personal protective equipment] and unvaccinated HCP should physically distance from others.”
Can I ask employees if they’re vaccinated for COVID-19? Yes, employers can ask employees if they have been vaccinated. In fact, employers can require employees to be vaccinated. For additional information about the legal and human resources intricacies related to this question, please read this Today's FDA article.
Isn’t there legislation that protects health care workers from COVID-related lawsuits? Yes, civil liability protections against COVID-19-related claims for health care providers, including dentists, went into effect on March 29 and will apply retroactively. The legislation (CS/SB 72) protects health care workers who have been making their best efforts to protect patients, an example of which may be following CDC guidelines. Read more in the “Sine Die” edition of Capital Report.
The American Dental Association released information about COVID-19 screenings and personal protective equipment, which includes Q&As about infection control and prevention. From the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the FDA has worked to be an asset to members by providing information, answering questions, taking positions and sharing best practices. We sincerely hope that these resources have been useful and helpful as you serve your patients and your communities.
SFDDA 2020-2021 Officers and Executive Council
President Mariana Velazquez, D.D.S., PA (305) 595-4122 President Elect Ernesto Perez, D.M.D. (305) 220-93935 Secretary John Aylmer, D.M.D. (954) 349-4004
Treasurer Orlando Dominguez, D.D.S. (305) 386-2766 Immediate Past President Oscar Peguero, D.M.D. (786) 519-3636
Young Member Gabriel Quiñones, D.M.D. Trustees
Irene Marron-Tarrazzi, D.M.D.,MS (305) 646-1524 Gina Marcus, D.M.D (305) 446-6655 Alternate Trustees
Mark A. Limosani, D.M.D. (954) 800-3453 Elaine deRoode, D.D.S. (305) 373-7799
Delegates to the Executive Council from the Affiliates Societies Miami Dade Dental Society Carlos Sanchez D.M.D. Laura Herschdorfer, D.D.S. North Dade/Miami Beach Dental Society Richard Mufson D.D.S Tim Franklin, D.M.D.
South Broward Dental Society Affiliate Society Presidents Dr. Lorena Corzo (MDDS) David Garazi, D.M.D. (ND/MBDS) John Aylmer, D.M.D. (SBDS)
Richard A. Mufson, D.D.S., Editor Yolanda Marrero, Managing Editor Jackie Quintero, Advertising SFDDA NEWSLETTER Copyright: © SFDDA 2020 Published by the South Florida District Dental Association 420 S. Dixie Highway, Suite 2E Coral Gables, FL 33146
Send announcements and correspondence to the Editor at address abovePhone: (305) 667-3647 FAX: (305) 665-7059 or email to: southfloridadistrict@gmail.com
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Disclaimer: Opinions stated in the SFDDA Newsletter are not necessarily endorsed by the South Florida District Dental Association, its Executive Council or Committees. Advertisements printed should not be construed as an endorsement by the Association of the company, product or service.
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Classifieds
OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE
SEEKING A PEDIATRIC DENTIST: To join a growing orthodontic private practice. The position will begin 1 day/week with the goal of adding more days and a potential partnership opportunity for the right candidate. Please inquire for additional information. Send inquiries to Box#1220, SFDDA 420 S. Dixie Hwy., Ste.2E, Coral Gables, FL 33146
PART TIME: High quality prosthodontist and periodontist needed for selective cases at my office.Please call or e-mail. David Vine, D.D.S. 305.538.1115 (dvine@davidvinedentist.com ).
OFFICE SPACE-SALE OR RENT
OFFICE SPACE FOR LEASE: in Coral Gables. Wholefoods building directly across from Sunset Place. Three fully equipped operatories, digital pan/ceph machine, private consult room, lab, break room, sterilization area, private restrooms, large waiting room, Class “A” building with plenty of free parking for specialty practice. For further information contact Jilien 305984-3240
To run classified or display advertising in the SFDDA Newsletter or SFDDA Website, please contact: Jackie Quintero at (305) 667-3647 ext 13 or email jackie.sfdda@gmail.com
DENTAL PRACTICE FOR SALE
HOMESTEAD PRACTICE: Established over 40 years. Great starter practice or second office. Call doctor 305- 588-0365
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WANTED! Happy people ready to enjoy the incoming year and celebrate being together again! Affiliate dinner meetings! One Day State Mandated Courses! Havana Nights Dinner Dance! One Day Wellness Event! Call the SFDDA at (305) 667-3647 for information or register for any of these events at: https://www.sfdda.org/affiliatemeetingsce
SFDDA Members,
We Want to Help You Connect!
Are you:
- Looking for an associate? - Wanting to transition out of or into a practice?
If you are, let us help you find a match!
For more details, call us at: (305) 667-3647 or Email us at: southfloridadistrict@gmail.com
Some Fun Facts About Our Podcast:
The South Florida District Dental Association launched “Ain’t That the Tooth” podcast on February 3, 2021. It is available on all podcast streaming platforms, from Apple to Spotify and more.
Since then, the podcast has received more than 450 downloads (at the time of this publishing.) It has reached countries worldwide, including France, Russia, Poland, Germany, the UK, Mexico, Trinidad & Tobago, Puerto Rico, Australia, Venezuela, Japan, Panama, and Turkey. In the United States, in addition to Florida, our listenership has reached Ohio, Virginia, Alabama, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New York, Massachusetts, California, Tennessee, Washington, Texas, Illinois, and New Hampshire, to name a few. - Not too shabby for the first season!
We will start to record season two in just a few weeks. And if you have an idea for a topic or have an interesting story, hobby, or anything you think we can share, let us know. You might be our next guest! - email us at southfloridadistrict@gmail.com.
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