July 2023 Texas Dental Journal

TDA

Texas Dental Journal

JULY 2023

Special Issue

Membership Awards Recognition

This special issue of the Texas Dental Journal recognizes members for their continual membership and contributions to the Texas Dental Association (TDA) for the following categories: 10 years, Good Fellow (25 years), Life (30 years), 50 years, and 60 years.

In addition to recognition at the TDA House of Delegates in May 2023, the following quotes and personal, professional, and membership experiences are highlighted to further honor their involvement with TDA and within organized dentistry.

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TMOM 2023 Events

TMOM, Edinburg: September 15-16, 2023

THE TEXAS DENTAL JOURNAL’S CALENDAR will include only meetings, symposia, etc., of statewide, national, and international interest to Texas dentists. Because of space limitations, individual continuing education courses will not be listed. Readers are directed to the monthly advertisements of courses that appear elsewhere in the Journal

Editorial Staff

Jacqueline M. Plemons, DDS, MS, Editor

Paras B. Patel, DDS, Associate Editor

Nicole Scott, Managing Editor

Barbara Donovan, Art Director

Lee Ann Johnson, CAE, Director of Member Services

Editorial Advisory Board

Ronald C. Auvenshine, DDS, PhD

Barry K. Bartee, DDS, MD

Patricia L. Blanton, DDS, PhD

William C. Bone, DDS

Phillip M. Campbell, DDS, MSD

Michaell A. Huber, DDS

Arthur H. Jeske, DMD, PhD

Larry D. Jones, DDS

Paul A. Kennedy, Jr., DDS, MS

Scott R. Makins, DDS, MS

Daniel Perez, DDS

William F. Wathen, DMD

Robert C. White, DDS

Leighton A. Wier, DDS

Douglas B. Willingham, DDS

The Texas Dental Journal is a peer-reviewed publication. Established February 1883 • Vol 140 | No. 6

Texas Dental Association

1946 S IH-35 Ste 400, Austin, TX 78704-3698

Phone: 512-443-3675 • FAX: 512-443-3031

Email: tda@tda.org • Website: www.tda.org

Texas Dental Journal (ISSN 0040-4284) is published monthly except January-February and August-September, which are combined issues, by the Texas Dental Association, 1946 S IH-35, Austin, TX, 78704-3698, 512-443-3675. PeriodicalsPostage Paid at Austin, Texas and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to TEXAS DENTAL JOURNAL, 1946 S IH 35 Ste 400, Austin, TX 78704. Copyright 2023 Texas Dental Association. All rights reserved.

Annual subscriptions: Texas Dental Association members $17. Instate ADA Affiliated $49.50 + tax, Out-of-state ADA Affiliated $49.50. In-state Non-ADA Affiliated $82.50 + tax, Out-of-state Non-ADA Affiliated $82.50. Single issue price: $6 ADA Affiliated, $17 Non-ADA Affiliated. For in-state orders, add 8.25% sales tax.

Contributions: Manuscripts and news items of interest to the membership of the society are solicited. Electronic submissions are required. Manuscripts should be typewritten, double spaced, and the original copy should be submitted. For more information, please refer to the Instructions for Contributors statement included in the online September Annual Membership Directory or on the TDA website: tda.org. All statements of opinion and of supposed facts are published on authority of the writer under whose name they appear and are not to be regarded as the views of the Texas Dental Association, unless such statements have been adopted by the Association. Articles are accepted with the understanding that they have not been published previously. Authors must disclose any financial or other interests they may have in products or services described in their articles.

Advertisements: Publication of advertisements in this journal does not constitute a guarantee or endorsement by the Association of the quality of value of such product or of the claims made.

president’s message

Discover the Hidden Value of Organized Dentistry

Members of organized dentistry often cite advocacy, education, and fellowship as reasons why they renew their membership. However, when nonmembers are asked why they choose not to join, their response typically revolves around the need for tangible benefits. This is where the value proposition of the Tripartite comes into play—what matters to you and how can we deliver it to you? Instead of repeating what you already know, let’s share some lesser-known facts.

On the National Level

• ADA Standards Program—Setting standards is perhaps THE most crucial role of the ADA. From the specific torque at which your handpiece spins to the wavelength at which your light cures, the ADA Standards cover almost every aspect of dentistry. These standards ensure safety, reliability, and efficacy. Additionally, Standards extend to informatics—the exchanging of information—which enables you to submit dental claims and receive electronic payments.

• The Commission on Dental Accreditation—Speaking of standards, the Commission on Dental Accreditation plays a vital role. It accredits all dental education programs and develops and implements educational standards to protect the public and ensure students receive a highquality education.

Cody C. Graves, DDS TDA President

• ADA Continuing Education Recognition Program (ADA CERP)—Taking education further, ADA CERP provides a solid baseline for uniform acceptance of continuing education (CE) credits required for the maintenance of dental licensure.

• Advocacy—Did you know that the ADA is currently involved in a lawsuit with Delta Dental? They have also worked with many states, including Texas and Massachusetts, to pass insurance reform laws. Additionally, the ADA has a Special Committee examining how to reform ERISA.

On the State and Local Level

• Personalized Help—Through our “Ask Diane” site, we offer individualized assistance with dental insurance, compliance, and board issues. Whether it’s the state board or insurance companies, we are here to help you navigate the complexities. Visit tda.org/askdiane

• Endorsed Vendors—We have partnered with endorsed vendors who can put money or people back into your practice. For example, ERC Specialists have scheduled refunds worth $18 million for our members, Cloud Dentistry addresses your workforce needs, and Best Cards helps you save on credit card processing fees.

• Advocacy—We have achieved significant legislative successes on the state and local levels. This includes passing the most comprehensive insurance law in our association’s history and supporting the administration of local anesthesia by dental hygienists. We have also successfully excluded dentists from a bill that would have mandated itemized billing for every instrument and equipment used.

• Continuing education—As a member, you enjoy discounts on CE courses through the TDA Dental Concierge App, including Pankey Courses. You also receive discounts at all state and local component meetings.

• Coming Soon—We are working on providing cost-effective health benefits and coverage for you, your family, and your team. This exclusive offering will only be available to our members only!

Can we do more? Absolutely! Can we improve? Certainly! And we will strive to do so. However, our success relies on your participation. Join or renew your membership and get involved. Together, we can achieve even greater heights.

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Anesthesia Education & Safety Foundation

Two ways to Register for our Continuing Education Programs: e-mail us at sedationce@aol.com or call us at 214-384-0796

OUR GOAL: To teach safe and effective anesthesia techniques and management of medical emergencies in an understandable manner.

WHO WE ARE: We are licensed and practicing dentists in Texas who understand your needs, having provided anesthesia continuing education courses for 34 years. The new anesthesia guidelines were recently approved by the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners. As practicing dental anesthesiologists and educators, we have established continuing education programs to meet these needs.

New TSBDE requirement of Pain Management

Two programs available (satisfies rules 104.1 and 111.1)

Live Webcast (counts as in-class CE) or Online (at your convenience)

All programs can be taken individually or with a special discount pricing (ask Dr. Canfield) for a bundle of 2 programs:

Principles of Pain Management

Fulfills rule 104.1 for all practitioners

Use and Abuse of Prescription Medications and Provider Prescription Program

Fulfills rules 104.1 and 111.1

SEDATION & EMERGENCY PROGRAMS:

Nitrous Oxide/Oxygen Conscious Sedation Course for Dentists:

Credit: 18 hours lecture/participation (you must complete the online portion prior to the clinical part)

Level 1 Initial Minimal Sedation Permit Courses:

*Hybrid program consisting of Live Lecture and online combination

Credit: 20 hours lecture with 20 clinical experiences

SEDATION REPERMIT PROGRAMS: LEVELS 1 and 2

(ONLINE, LIVE WEBCAST AND IN CLASS)

ONLINE LEVEL 3 AND 4 SEDATION RE PERMIT AVAILABLE!

(Parenteral Review) Level 3 or Level 4 Anesthesia Programs (In Class, Webcast and Online available):

American Heart Association Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) Initial and Renewal Programs

NOTE: ACLS or PALS Renewal can be completed by itself at any combined program

Combined ACLS-PALS-BLS and Level 2, 3 and 4 Program

WEBCASTING and ONLINE RENEWALS AVAILABLE! Live and archived webcasting to your computer in the comfort of your home. Here are the distinct advantages of the webcast (contact us at 214 -384-0796 to see which courses are available for webcast):

1. You can receive continuing education credit for simultaneous live lecture CE hours.

2. There is no need to travel to the program location. You can stay at home or in your office to view and listen to the cou rse.

3. There may be a post-test after the online course concludes, so you will receive immediate CE credit for attendance

4. With the webcast, you can enjoy real-time interaction with the course instructor, utilizing a question and answer format

OUR MISSION STATEMENT: To provide affordable, quality anesthesia education with knowledgeable and experienced instructors, both in a clinical and academic manner while being a valuable resource to the practitioner after the programs. Courses are designed to meet the needs of the dental profession at all levels. Our continuing education programs fulfill the TSBDE Rule 110 practitioner requirement in the process to obtain selected Sedat ion permits.

AGD Codes for all programs: 341 Anesthesia & Pain Control; 342 Conscious Sedation; 343 Oral Sedation This is only a partial listing of sedation courses. Please consult our www.sedationce.com for updates and new programs.

Two ways to Register: e-mail us at sedationce@aol.com or call us at 214-384-0796

Dr. Canfield

TDA Remembers the Profound Lives of Past Presidents Drs Hilton Israelson and A. David May Jr

Drs Hilton Israelson and A. David May shared much in common during their impactful lives. Professionally, they both operated successful dental practices and served as consecutive presidents of the Texas Dental Association, Dr May from 2007 to 2008 and Dr Israelson from 2008 to 2009. Personally, both doctors centered their lives around their families and had many hobbies and interests outside of their offices. TDA will always fondly remember the services of Drs Israelson and May and extends sincere condolences to their families.

Dr Hilton Israelson, 73, Richardson 1949-2023

Born on November 5, 1949, in Germiston, South Africa to Rose and Abraham Israelson, Dr Israelson grew up in Witbank in a large, close-knit family (his mother was one of eight!) with whom he remained in regular contact until his death on May 19, 2023, in Dallas, according to his obituary published in the Dallas Morning News 1 He attended the University of Witwatersrand in Johannesburg, South Africa, where he met his wife, Maureen. He moved to the US for periodontal specialty training and residency from the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in Boston.2

He and Maureen were married in 1973 and had 3 children, Alana, Carla, and Justin. The family made their home in Dallas though they traveled to South Africa often to connect with family and friends there and share in all the delights they loved, including mangoes, biltong, the most beautiful beaches, and safaris, according to his obituary. He enjoyed many hobbies including lifting weights, playing bridge, and running, finishing a half marathon to celebrate his 70th birthday.1

Professionally, Dr Israelson began treating patients in Greater Dallas in 1981 and practiced in Richardson. He was a clinical instructor in periodontics at the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine from 1977 to 1979, a faculty member at the Texas A&M College of Dentistry as assistant clinical professor, and an associate clinical professor in the college’s Department of Periodontics from 1989 to 2000.2

He was influential in all levels of organized dentistry. He served as the president of the Dallas County Dental Society in 1999, president of TDA from 2008-2009, and was an ADA trustee from 2011-2015. Throughout his career, he received many awards and accolades, including the DCDS’s Dentist of the Year Award in 2006, the TDA President’s Award in 2006 and 2011, the DCDS Lifetime Achievement Award in 2013, an ADA Presidential Citation in 2014, and the TDA Gold Medal for Distinguished Service Award in 2016, the association’s highest achievement. Dr Israelson was elected into TDA Life Membership in 2014.

Dr Israelson is pictured with his family and friends when he received the TDA Gold Medal for Distinguished Service in 2016.

Dr Hilton Israelson served as TDA president from 2008 to 2009. He was elected into TDA Life Membership in 2014.

Dr Israelson was beloved by his family and his friends, and according to his obituary, “to know him was to be impacted by him, and one of the most heartwarming experiences in the aftermath of his untimely death is to hear all the stories being shared not just about how people felt about him, but about how he made people feel. Hilton adored his family and friends, and his wife, children, and grandchildren. He loved being a ‘Papa!‘ In the hearts of his family and those close, a huge void will sit for some time, to eventually be filled with the incredible memories he left. He will be sorely missed and eternally lauded.1”

He is preceded in death by his parents and his brother Monty, a fellow dentist. He is survived by his wife Maureen; their 3 children Alana Unterberg, Carla Weinstein (Benjamin) and Justin Israelson; grandsons Oliver, Beckett, Emile Judah, Dillon, Landon, and Alexander; his sister Sharon Cane (Joel); sisters-in-law Gillian Sher (Hylton) and Desiree Massad (Doron); several nieces and nephews; and a large extended family.

Donations in honor of Dr Israelson may be made through the Dallas Jewish Community Foundation at: https://www. djcf.org/donate. Please click the drop-down menu and select the “Hilton Israelson Memorial Fund.”

References

1. Dallas Morning News. May 28, 2023. Cited July 10, 2023 . Available from URL: https://obits.dallasnews.com/ us/obituaries/dallasmorningnews/name/ hilton-israelson-obituary?id=52063494

2. Cited July 10, 2023. Available from URL: https://www.northtexasperioimplants. com/p/dental-implants-RichardsonTXMeet-Hilton-Israelson-DDS-p41725. asp

Dr A. David May Jr, 77, Abilene 1946-2023

Dr Amos David May Jr was born in Rule, Texas, to Amos David May Sr and Tomi Teaf May on May 23, 1946. He died on May 25, 2023, in Abilene at Lyndale Abilene Memory Care.

Dr May graduated from Rule High School in 1964 and obtained his DDS degree from Baylor College of Dentistry in 1971. He married Lynda Bradford May on February 12, 1972, in San Antonio.

A general dentist in Abilene for 50 years, Dr May was very active in organized dentistry before retiring in 2019. He held many offices, including president of the TDA from 2007 to 2008, president of the 17th District Dental Society, several TDA committees, and on the TDA Council on Legislative and Regulatory Affairs. He served on the ADA Council on Dental Benefit Programs and as an ADA delegate. Dr May also served as president, vice president, and secretary/treasurer of the TDA Financial Services Inc. and was president of the TDA Holding Company. Dr May was elected into TDA Life Membership in 2011.

Dr May was a fellow of the American College of Dentists, the International College of Dentists, and the Pierre Fauchard Academy. He was awarded the TDA Distinguished Service Award in 1984, and the TDA President’s Award in 1991, 2003, and 2009.

Dr May was a Mason and a member of the John Sayles Masonic Lodge #1408. He had several passions. One was a fast boat named the Cookie Monster. He loved to fish with his fishing buddies. And, his biggest passion was playing golf and, actually, got a hole in one, once, according to his obituary.

Dr May was preceded in death by his father, Amos David May Sr. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Lynda May and his son, Keith. His sister, Susan Lefevre (Larry), and brother, Randy May, his mother, Tomi Teaf May and nieces, nephews, and great nieces and great nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Texas Dental Association Smiles Foundation (tdasmiles.org), of which he was a volunteer; the Abilene Community Theatre (abilenecommunitytheatre.org); or any charity of your choice.

Dr A. David May Jr accepting the TDA President’s Award, 2003.

Dr A. David May Jr, served as TDA president from 2007 to 2008. He was elected into TDA Life Membership in 2011.

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Board of Directors Texas Dental Association

PRESIDENT Cody C. Graves, DDS 325-648-2251, drc@centex.net

PRESIDENT-ELECT

Georganne P. McCandless, DDS 281-516-2700, gmccandl@yahoo.com

PAST PRESIDENT

Duc “Duke” M. Ho, DDS 281-395-2112, ducmho@sbcglobal.net

VICE PRESIDENT, SOUTHWEST Richard M. Potter, DDS 210-673-9051, rnpotter@att.net

VICE PRESIDENT, NORTHWEST

Summer Ketron Roark, DDS 806-793-3556, summerketron@gmail.com

VICE PRESIDENT, NORTHEAST Jodi D. Danna, DDS 972-377-7800, jodidds1@gmail.com

VICE PRESIDENT, SOUTHEAST Shailee J. Gupta, DDS 512-879-6225, sgupta@stdavidsfoundation.org

SENIOR DIRECTOR, SOUTHWEST Krystelle Anaya, DDS 915-855-1000, krystelle.barrera@gmail.com

SENIOR DIRECTOR, NORTHWEST

Stephen A. Sperry, DDS 806-794-8124, stephenasperry@gmail.com

SENIOR DIRECTOR, NORTHEAST

Mark A. Camp, DDS 903-757-8890, macamp1970@yahoo.com

SENIOR DIRECTOR, SOUTHEAST Laji J. James, DDS 281-870-9270, lajijames@yahoo.com

DIRECTOR, SOUTHWEST Melissa Uriegas, DDS 956-369-9235, meluriegas@gmail.com

DIRECTOR, NORTHWEST

Adam S. Awtrey, DDS 314-503-4457, awtrey.adam@gmail.com

DIRECTOR, NORTHEAST

Drew M. Vanderbrook, DDS 214-821-5200, vanderbrookdds@gmail.com

DIRECTOR, SOUTHEAST

Matthew J. Heck, DDS 210-393-6606, matthewjheckdds@gmail.com

SECRETARY-TREASURER*

Carmen P. Smith, DDS 214-503-6776, drprincele@gmail.com

SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE*

John W. Baucum III, DDS 361-855-3900, jbaucum3@gmail.com

PARLIAMENTARIAN**

Glen D. Hall, DDS 325-698-7560, abdent78@gmail.com

EDITOR**

Jacqueline M. Plemons, DDS, MS 214-369-8585, drplemons@yahoo.com

LEGAL COUNSEL

Carl R. Galant

*Non-voting member

**Non-voting

Special Issue Membership Awards Recognition

This special issue of the Texas Dental Journal recognizes members for their continual membership and contributions to the Texas Dental Association (TDA) for the following categories: 10 years, Good Fellow (25 years), Life (30 years), 50 years, and 60 years.

In addition to recognition at the TDA House of Delegates in May 2023, the following quotes and personal, professional, and membership experiences are highlighted to further honor their involvement with TDA and within organized dentistry. The entries are integral to submission in first- or third-person but may be edited for clarity and/or Journal style.

Dr

60-Year Members

The following recipients are recognized for reaching 60 years of continual membership and service to the Texas Dental Association.

Dr Joseph B. Baucum Jr

Dr Robert M. Baxter Jr

Dr Jimmy C. Boley

Dr Terry A. Darden

Dr Albert L. Delaney Jr

Dr Alexander Dell

Dr Jerry S. Dickson

Dr Richard G. Dyck

Dr John E. Farnie

Dr Joe E. Friedman

Dr Henry S. Hammer

Dr Robert P. Kennedy Jr

Dr Warren G. Kolar

Dr Burton J. Kunik

Dr Lloyd E. Lake Jr

Dr Robert E. Lamberth

Dr Alan S. Markoff

Dr Jerry A. Marshall

Dr Max C. Mays

50-Year Members

Dr Gene N. Barry

Dr Jack E. Beeler

Dr Clifford R. Bell

Dr Bernard B. Natkin

Dr Don W. Plunkett

Dr William C. Rast Jr

Dr Robert M. Reed

Dr Donald C. Ruthven Jr

Dr Willard L. Tompson

Dr Carl M. Trepagnier

Dr Robert G. Triplett

Dr Michael Wetzel

The following recipients are recognized for reaching 50 years of continual membership and service to the Texas Dental Association.

Dr Warren S. Guy

Dr Kenneth M. Hamlett Jr

Dr Daryl L. Henderson

Dr Louis C. Miller

Dr Nixon F. Morris III

Dr Stephen T. Morris

Dr Gary L. Boehme

Dr Ron L. Bolen

Dr James R. Carroll Jr

Dr Robert M. Cassidy

Dr Ronald K. Chiles

Dr Ron Collins

Dr Robert L. Copley

Dr Joe H. Crain

Dr Thomas G. Croft III

Dr Philip J. Cullen

Dr Barry D. Cunningham

Dr Michael W. Curry

Dr Alvin J. Dalton Jr

Dr Frank L. Davenport

Dr Thomas W. Dawson

Dr Howell W. Florence

Dr Daniel N. Garza

Dr Richard L. Gore

Dr Jerry L. Hilton

Dr Jeffrey Hoover

Dr Jimmy N. James

Dr Kenneth E. Jarosz

Dr Stephen B. Kabisch

Dr John R. Key

Dr Augustine Y. Kim

Dr Robert T. Lee

Dr Richard M. Linden Jr

Dr Steven L. Little

Dr Johnny E. Majors

Dr Felix P. Majul

Dr Dwain E. Matelski

Dr James P. Maxwell

Dr E. Lamar May

Dr Douglas L. McClung

Dr Michael R. McWatters

Dr Donald R. Miller

Dr Troy D. Morton

Dr Griffin T. Murphey

Dr David O. Olson

Dr Glen F. Petrick

Dr Ronald H. Phillips

Dr Joe W. Potter

Dr Wayne E. Pundt

Dr J. Tim Rainey

Dr Allen P. Schuster

Dr Thomas E. Skelton

Dr Marvin G. Stephens Jr (deceased)

Dr Theodore R. Thevenet

Dr Ronald C. Trowbridge

Dr Edward M. Ware

Dr Robert D. White

Dr Ronald Whittington

Gus T. Alexander

Life Members

The following recipients are recognized for achieving their Life membership status in the Texas Dental Association, which is 30 years of continual membership.

Dr Song Ahn

Dr Kevin M. Altieri

Dr Samuel J. Angulo

Dr Donald P. Bandy

Dr Kenneth H. Bateman

Dr Balbino Beltre

Dr Carl D. Bloom

Dr Robert K. Bourquein

Dr Charles B. Boyd

Dr Barry H. Buchanan

Dr Carroll R. Butler

Dr Felix H. Cano

Dr Maria E. Carrillo

Dr Norman R. Chu

Dr Kevin D. Clardy

Dr Clark D. Colville

Dr Deborah L. Cooper Newland

Dr Eddie M. Cortez

Dr L. Eric Crawford

Dr Frank R. Danna

Dr Haysam D. Dawod

Dr Dacen De La Paz

Dr David J. Dominguez

Dr Kevin J. Donly

Dr Joan L. Dreher

Dr Joseph K. Drinkwater

Dr Rhonda K. Emmons

Dr Ronald D. Ferrell

Dr Alexia C. Fields

Dr Walter D. Gaffney Jr

Dr Erik Galian

Dr Sheryl A. Garcia

Dr Kirby L. Garrett

Dr Dennis P. Goehring

Dr Hilton N. Goldreich

Dr J. Chris Gowan

Dr Louis Grigsby

Dr Deborah J. Haase

Dr Bradley H. Hajdik

Dr Stephen C. Hale

Dr Jana L. Harrison

Dr Martha J. Hudson

Dr Alan Imrek

Dr Donald A. Jackman

Dr Alice J. Johnson

Dr Lance K. Jones

Dr Arthur W. Jordan

Dr Kathleen A. Kasper

Dr Frank P. Lyman

Dr Robert Marroquin

Dr Josefina V. Martinez

Dr Scott A. Mason

Dr Mark A. McCall

Dr R. Todd McConnell

Dr Jessica T. Meyers

Dr Colin A. Mihalik

Dr J. Scott Miller

Dr Mark D. Morgan

Dr Maria R. Munoz-Roquero

Dr Robert B. Peak

Dr Brit D. Phillips

Dr Kelly H. Robinson

Dr Ricardo Rodriguez

Dr Ruben Rodriguez II

Dr Paulette R. Sanford

Dr Ivi Z. Sanguinetti

Dr Benjamin C. Silva

Dr Kelli P. Slate

Dr David J. Sorokolit

Dr Julie A. Stelly

Dr Shelly E. Stromboe

Dr Mary K. Swift

Dr Terri E. Train

Dr Steven E. Villarreal

Dr Anna N. Willison

Dr Edward F. Wright

ORDER OF Good Fellow Members

The following recipients are recognized for achieving the Order of Good Fellow membership status in the Texas Dental Association, which is 25 years of continual membership.

Dr Cristina S. Anderson

Dr George M. Angelos

Dr Anna C. Ashley

Dr Christopher L. Barnes

Dr George C. Barrett

Dr Bradly T. Beckel

Dr Amy N. Bender

Dr Shane T. Berger

Dr Elizabeth J. Berry

Dr Carl D. Bloom

Dr Robert N. Borkowski

Dr Audrey M. Boutros

Dr Gayle K. Bradshaw

Dr Bloyce H. Britton III

Dr William A. Buche

Dr Ronald C. Butler

Dr Johnny G. Cailleteau

Dr Jarrod Campbell

Dr Brent R. Carmony

Dr Gilbert S. Carreon

Dr Reagan L. Carroll

Dr Johnny C. Cavazos

Dr Howard F. Cooke

Dr H. N. Corbett

Dr Brent Cornelius

Dr Jennifer D. Cunningham

Dr Robert R. D’Alfonso

Dr Jason M. Derr

Dr James M. Doose

Dr Lamar L. Drgac

Dr Andy B. Duke

Dr Bradley L. Duren

Dr Kay S. Eckroth

Dr Kelli L. Ettelbrick

Dr Frank Feuille V

Dr Gayle J. Fletcher

Dr Dwayne M. Fontenot

Dr Kim K. Forrest

Dr Richard F. Fossum

Dr Gregory S. Franklin

Dr Steven J. Fuqua

Dr Buddy D. Furqueron

Dr Erik Galian

Dr Carlos O. Garcia

Dr Paul A. Gates

Dr Thomas B. Girvan

Dr Stephen D. Glass

Dr Jennifer M. Grant

Dr Heather L. Hagen

Dr E. Ellen Hall

Dr Ronald S. Hancock

Dr Richard F. Hansard

Dr Rick H. Heard III

Dr Tracy R. Henson-McBee

Dr James B. Herrington I

Dr Don W. Heyen

Dr Ron C. Hill

Dr Maisa M. Idriss

Dr Shiva Izaddoust

Dr Scott A. Janse

Dr Leticia G. Jeffords

Dr Grant D. Johnson

Dr Demetra C. Jones

Dr Peggy J. Jones

Dr Yoon C. Kang

Dr John M. Kelley Jr

Dr Jonathan Kolb

Dr Cherie S. Kozelsky

Dr Laura S. LaCroix

Dr Miranda C. Lacy

Dr Celeste E. Latham

Dr Andrew S. Lazaris

Dr Ann N. Le

Dr Hsuch-Ming Lee

Dr Diane L. Lide

Dr Eduardo R. Lorenzana

Dr James R. Lucente

Dr David Luck

Dr Richard B. Luczak

Dr Michael A. Macaluso

Dr Robert W. Madry III

Dr Marla J. Magness-Myers

Dr Stacy D. Manlove

Dr Georganne P. McCandless

Dr Ronald C. McConnell

Dr Derek B. McKaskle

Dr Charles M. Meek

Dr David J. Mills

Dr Kristi H. Moody

Dr James M. Moossy

Dr Laura S. Morgan

Dr Gary D. Mundy

Dr Robert J. Naples

Dr Michael M. Nguyen

Dr Stacy L. Norman

Dr Robert A. Norris

Dr Scot A. O’Donnell

Dr Charles D. Palmer Jr

Dr David S. Pedley

Dr Tyler L. Pendergrass

Dr Charles J. Portales

Dr Richard M. Potter

Dr Susan L. Randall

Dr Matthew T. Record

Dr Holly W. Reeves

Dr Ronald K. Risinger

Dr William C. Roddy

Dr Deborah A. Romack

Dr Guss A. Sattem

Dr Richard S. Schwartz

Dr Micheal W. Scott

Dr Jeffery M. Seibert

Dr Richard A. Seume

Dr Naoki N. Shimizu

Dr Ricky T. Short

Dr Gary W. Shults

Dr Jeffrey R. Siebert

Dr Bruce S. Silva

Dr Larry D. Sparks

Dr James T. St Clair IV

Dr John R. Stooksberry

Dr Deborah C. Sullivan

Dr David J. Tasch

Dr James T. Thedford

Dr Kim C. Thomas

Dr Quynh-Chi V. Trieu

Dr Amanda R. Trotter

Dr Vi H. Truong-Mai

Dr Andrea E. Varesic

Dr William R. Walstad

Dr Jeff M. Weiser

Dr Daniel P. West

Dr Tammy R. Weyandt

Dr Larry W. White

Dr Harold C. Whitmire Jr

Dr Eric M. Wilson

Dr Kendra D. Wren

10-Year Members

The following recipients are recognized for reaching their first 10 years of continual membership in the Texas Dental Association.

Dr Amin K. Abdul-Baqi

Dr Rushdi Alawadi

Dr Nicholas D. Allan

Dr Andrew S. Barnett

Dr Karina Bartz

Dr Antonio Berto

Dr Abhishek Bhaumik

Dr ReAnn M. Boss

Dr Philip Brown

Dr Steven A. Bui

Dr Gregory R. Caldwell

Dr Manuel Castillo

Dr Mark S. Chambers

Dr Bryce S. Chandler

Dr Tina Y. Chang

Dr Aiyana Z. Chase-Anderson

Dr Rachel V. Cooper

Dr Manuel E. Diaz

Dr Doris Doleyres

Dr Richard B. Dunham

Dr Mazen Duraini

Dr Aaron W. Engels

Dr Helaman P. Erickson

Dr Clarissa Esparza

Dr Jay E. Fandel

Dr Farnam H. Farzam

Dr Aekta J. Fifadara

Dr Timothy E. Gardner

Dr Ronald J. Garza

Dr Cody L. Giesler

Dr Roberto K. Giles

Dr Jesus Gomez

Dr Travis F. Graham-Wyatt Sr

Dr Thomas B. Grant

Dr Bill T. Greenhaw

Dr Elizabeth A. Hagan

Dr Kyle Halberstadt

Dr Richard S. Hattaway

Dr Cameron B. Herring

Dr Brian K. Hill

Dr Zachary J. Holder

Dr Lindsey A. Horwedel

Dr Robert B. Ioppolo

Dr Khaled A. Jadid

Dr Syed A. Khalid

Dr Susan J. Kim

Dr Stephen J. Kimball

Dr David J. Laing

Dr Susan G. Latimer

Dr Jin M. Lee

Dr Lindsay M. Lepore

Dr Xingkun Liu

Dr Vernesha D. Lockhart

Dr Layla C. Lohmann

Dr Jeremy T. Louk

Dr Katherine N. Luong

Dr Lillian C. Lyons

Dr Troy M. Mannino

Dr Rosecler C. Marmentini

Dr Ashla L. Martin

Dr Camaron L. Martin

Dr Clifton M. Martin Jr

Dr Katrinia S. McBride

Dr Christina M. Meiners

Dr James P. Merrett

Dr LaBreia S. Moore

Dr David A. Mouritsen

Dr Meredith P. Munal

Dr Kevin M. Nail

Dr Melissa S. Nix-Edge

Dr Humberto Nunez Gil

Dr Matthew C. Parker

Dr Asha D. Patel

Dr Manishkumar Patel

Dr Jonathan F. Powell

Dr Reo L. Pugao

Dr Ryan L. Quock

Dr Vinodh Ramjee

Dr Anissa L. Reagor

Dr John D. Regan

Dr Mona Rezapour

Dr Cynthia C. Rho

Dr Dallen Ricks

Dr Kristina N. Rivers

Dr Brent P. Robinson

Dr Kade A. Roundy

Dr Abhishek S. Ruparelia

Dr Richard L. Rychetsky

Dr Amir Saad

Dr Paulette R. Sanford

Dr Ryan L. Seegmiller

Dr Salimah M. Shariff

Dr Joe J. Simmons III

Dr Brad C. Singleton

Dr David G. Stock

Dr Colton J. Street

Dr Amirali Tahbaz

Dr Esther C. Tam

Dr Sha Tao

Dr Michelle A. Thompson

Dr Brandi L. Tiner

Dr Katie To

Dr Lacedric Tolliver

Dr Tammy T. Ton

Dr Rosie T. Tran

Dr Shawn Q. Tran

Dr Aaron M. Vickers

Dr Marielsa A. Weidanz

Dr Kenneth S. Williams

Dr Weiping Zhang

Dr Elizabeth J. Berry

Good Fellow • Granbury, Texas

GOOD FELLOW

It is hard to believe that I have been practicing dentistry for 25 years! I started my journey in dentistry when another door closed, and little did I know what a blessing this career would be for me and my family. Dentistry has allowed me the opportunity to balance career and family and has also given me an outlet to serve in my community and beyond.

I have absolutely loved owning a private practice with my husband Dr Jason Berry in our small community outside of Fort Worth. It has been my pleasure to care for our staff and community not only in my private practice, but also through non-profit community clinics to help the underserved population. I’ve loved sharing dentistry in our local school system at all different age levels as my children grew up, and have been able to travel to Chihuahua, Mexico, to offer care for orphans for many, many years.

Dentistry has opened so many avenues for me to care for others, and I am so very thankful that I had the opportunity to be a dentist. My advice to any new dentist would be to stay involved with continued learning because that is really where the excitement and interest grows, and to always give back to your community and beyond, and last but not least, to be thankful.

Drs Elizabeth and Jason Berry and partner Adrienne Montgomery are pictured with their staff outside their practice in Granbury.

Dr Berry is pictured with with various patients and staff over the years. She cares for patients in her small community, at local non-profit community clinics, and travels often to Chihuahua, Mexico.

50-YEAR MEMBER

Dr Kenneth M. Hamlett Jr

50-Year Member Dallas, Texas

In 1994 I took the Continuum in Esthetic Dentistry at Baylor Dental School. It was run by Ann Seals and Dr Bill Waltham. It changed my life, recharged it, and gave me a new perspective on dentistry. Some of my best memories have come from teaching with Larry Rosenthal at Aesthetic Advantage for 20 years. This really increased my aesthetic skills and gave me great coping skills to deal with a wide variety of personalities. One of my greatest achievements was getting my fellowship in the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, followed by my Fellowship in AGD.

My words of wisdom for new dentists are to find a mentor and attend as many continuing education courses as possible. Never stop learning and develop your listening skills and your people skills.

Dr Marvin G. Stephens Jr 50-Year Member Tyler, Texas

The following submission was written a few days before Dr Stephens passed. The family requested that his submission be printed in this special edition of the Texas Dental Journal.

After 50 years, I look back and can honestly say that I’ve never regretted my choice of dentistry first, and orthodontics second. I truly love it! If not, I wouldn’t still be practicing and teaching at 81 years of age. I’ve heard and seen that if you retire, you die, which is why I continue to practice privately in Tyler and teach 3 to 4 days a month at Baylor Ortho. So, I always say, “If you’re healthy enough to continue, then just do it!”

When in dental school, Mother Baylor, I loved all facets of the art and science of dentistry. I seriously considered crown and bridge and oral surgery, but finally chose orthodontics for many reasons. In dentistry you can help people, their minds, their mouths, and their self-esteem. You can also build personal relationships that change people’s lives and their oral health for years to come. As one of our great friends and mentors taught us:

1. Treat people as friends, not clients.

2. Go where you want to live, and your family will be happy regardless of pay.

3. Don’t be a competitor, be a colleague.

4. Don’t worry about how much you can charge them, worry about how much you can give them.

Sincerely, Dr Marvin G. Stephens Jr

Dr Theodore R. Thevenet

50-Year Member Grafton, Wisconsin

The picture is of my wife Peggy and me. Peggy is a registered dental hygienist who graduated from Caruth School of Dental Hygiene, Baylor Dental College, Dallas, Texas. I am honored to receive the 50-Year Award.

Dr Thevenet retired in 2004 and is a member of the Dallas County Dental Society.

LIFE MEMBER

Dr Eddie M. Cortez

Life Member San Antonio, Texas

Dr Eddie Cortez was born in San Antonio Texas, and he attended Marquette School of Dentistry in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He loves his profession because he loves making people smile. He has enjoyed meeting many interesting and talented people throughout his career. His life revolves around his deep faith in God, his family, and his profession as a dentist. He practiced at 3 charitable dental clinics in San Antonio. He also worked in private practice for 12 years. Shortly after he joined the United Stated Air Force Reserves and upon finishing officers training school, he was commissioned as a Captain. He retired 21 years later as a Lt Col, Chief Dental Officer of the 433rd Aerospace Medicine Squadron, Lackland AFB. In 2002 he received a position as faculty at the University of Texas Dental School in San Antonio in the Comprehensive Department. He is the former director of the Dental Faculty Practice Clinic where he presently is residing.

Dr Cortez says dentistry is a God-given talent, it is an art, and not everyone can be a dentist. It takes a lot of experience and lots of practice and patience to be an exceptionally good dentist. He mentions for the young dentist out there, even though you strive for excellence, just remember you cannot make everyone happy, but think of the hundreds of other patients you can. Always stay in the loop with latest dental cutting-edge technology. Taking continuing dental education courses at the Texas Dental Association meetings, which happens to be one of the largest dental societies in the United States, is a must. As a Lifetime member he has been an active TDA member for 30 years. Dentistry has brought immense joy to him, listening to his patient’s needs, and delivering quality work.

Dr Cortez takes considerable pride in practicing in the Faculty Practice Clinic where he diagnoses and treats oral health conditions on his patients daily. Having done multiple humanitarian missions stateside and in other countries, he’s passionate about providing care to those in need. He mentions if you’re going to be one thing in your life, then be the best at it. He is truly thankful and grateful for the blessing he was given to be able to help others with their dental needs in his community and abroad. Dentistry has changed his life in a optimistic way!

Dr Cortez treats a patient at a humanitarian mission in Belize.

Dr Haysam D. Dawod

Life Member

Corpus Christi, Texas

What dentistry has meant to me: Being a dentist is a dream come true! So, every day I am living a dream.

Other than allowing me to have a comfortable life, having the financial stability to raise a family, being able to educate my children, and enjoying the finer things in life, dentistry has given me the opportunity to do great things and enjoy wonderful experiences. Dentistry has also allowed me to get involved in the community and serve on numerous boards and organizations, such as volunteering annually to go on dental missions in Guatemala. It has also allowed me to perform a root canal and place a gold crown on a 350-pound Siberian Tiger. Lastly, it has allowed me to mentor many pre-dental students and several newly graduated dentists. In summary, dentistry has enriched my life more than words could ever express.

I am truly blessed to have the honor of being a dentist.

A memory or special time:

As I have mentioned above, I have so many fond memories throughout the years of being in dentistry. However, there are 2 moments that stand out the most. The first is putting the white coat on my son during his first year in dental school. That was a very special moment being able to see my son follow in my footsteps. The second, is having the opportunity to treat a 350-pound tiger that needed a root canal and a crown. That was a rare and exciting chance.

Words of wisdom for new dentists:

During the years, I have had the opportunity to mentor many young pre-dental students, as well as young dentists. One of the most asked questions is, “Dr Dawod, how did you get to have such a successful practice?” I tell them that in order to be successful in dentistry or in business, there are 2 things you need to prioritize and do very well. You need to treat and care for your patients, and you need to treat and care for your staff. By doing so, your patients and your staff will take care of you in return!

Dr Dawod treats a patient at a clinic in Guatemala.

60-YEAR MEMBER

Col (Ret) Henry “Hank” S. Hammer,

DDS, MS

60-Year Member

San Antonio, Texas

This award comes after more than a 60year association with the profession of dentistry. It all started when I was in high school with my admiration for my general dentist, Dr James Ivory of Binghamton, NY. He was my inspiration from day one, and I hope he’s proud of my accomplishments, not just in my patient care, but also my efforts in and for organized dentistry. From my undergraduate days at Harpur College (now Binghamton University) to dental school at the University of Pennsylvania, and then my post-graduate training in orthodontics at the University of Missouri –Kansas City, it has been one terrific ride.

My selection for a U.S. Army internship at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu after dental school was followed by a tour in Vietnam. A 20-year career in the Army with 11 of those years on active duty, was a very positive experience. Upon completion of my military service, I established my private practice in Hawaii which brought on more great experiences for some 30 years. I still hear from some of my patients more than 22 years after my retirement.

Certification by the American Board of Orthodontics was followed in future years by election as a fellow in several honorary colleges of dentistry. Fellowships in the American College of Dentistry, the International College of Dentistry and the Academy of Dentistry International were honors bestowed on me while in Hawaii.

Pictured are Dr Hammer with his oldest daughter, her husband, and 2 granddaughters; with assistants at the UTHealth School of Dentistry; his twin daughter who lives in Mississippi; with 4 of his 7 grandchildren; with his other twin daughter who lives in Colorado; and his oldest daughter.

My service in the Army also provided many enhancements to my professional career. They included promotion to Colonel before my retirement as well as numerous other awards and medals, including the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal and prestigious Award of Medical Merit.

Organized dentistry has also been a most important part of my career. I joined the American Dental Association while in dental school as a student member and have been a continuous member ever since. Through my involvement in organized dentistry, I had the privilege of serving my colleagues in various offices of the Hawaii Dental Association and was elected president of the HDA in 1986.

All work and no play could have made Hank a dull boy. However, the hobby of collecting model cars saved the day. My good friend Charlie Kuell introduced me to the attributes of collecting at a Porsche car meet. The result of that friendship was the accumulation of one of the world’s largest model car collections with over 100,000 pieces. Three 40-foot Matson containers moved the collection to Texas.

A second hobby commenced in 1984 when I was introduced to the barbershop music genre by a dental colleague. I ended up becoming a baritone in various quartets and choruses over some 45 years in both Hawaii and Texas.

The move to Texas was prompted by our 3 daughters who were all living with their families in various areas on the mainland. San Antonio was chosen as our new home as I had been stationed there while in the military. Though no longer enjoying the trade wind breezes of the islands, we do like the climate of south Texas.

If I could share some advice to young individuals, whether they be pre-dental or enrolled in dental school, it would be to make good future decisions based on solid guidance. For example, you may be told your debt for dental and/or post-graduation training will be overwhelming. Such may be the case but don’t let that prevent you from entering this fabulous profession. Hard work and persistence will result in tremendous gratification for you, your family, and your patients.

In addition, become an active part of organized dentistry and support initiatives that keeps dentistry strong. By all means, become a member of your local dental society and be involved to whatever extent you are able. Dentistry can provide you with a very comfortable living, but your greatest benefits will be the happiness of your patients and the joy of providing them with the very finest care possible.

Dr Hammer became a 50-year member in 2012.

A baritone singer, Dr Hammer received the Barbershop Singer of the Year in 2006.

Dr Hammer (younger years), wife Ginny, and 1st daughter.

Dr Hammer received the Order of Military Medical Merit medallion at the 2023 Army Dental Corps Ball.

MEMBER

Dr Anissa L. Reagor

10-Year Member Nacogdoches, Texas

It has been an absolute privilege to serve as a dentist with East Texas Community Health Services for the past 10 years. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to work with such a dedicated team in providing quality, affordable healthcare to our community. Being able to serve all residents across 5 counties has been a true honor and I am incredibly thankful for the trust and support of our patients.

It is my firm belief that access to healthcare is a fundamental right and being able to contribute to the well-being of our community has been a rewarding experience.

I look forward to continuing to serve and support our community for many years to come.

It is my firm belief that access to healthcare is a fundamental right and being able to contribute to the well-being of our community has been a rewarding experience.

Dr Layla C. Lohmann

10-Year Member • Dallas, Texas

It’s an honor to celebrate 10 years of organized dentistry. When asked to describe the value in paying to join an organization like this, I share that the network fostered within this community is worth every cent. We are stronger together. As dentists, we have witnessed our industry change in many intangible ways. We are no longer just “fixing teeth,” we are educating patients on their needs so they can make informed choices that benefit their oral health. My mission is to be a professional guide, empowering my patients to ask questions and be proactive to take ownership of their health.

I advise new dentists to take pride in their education and share the knowledge they have with their peers, colleagues, and patients. Getting involved and spreading ideas is the best way we can learn, grow, and build together as professionals in our field.

A final note of advice once said to me by a friend was, “Do your best on your best day, and do your best on your worst day. That is all you can do.” Should a friend or patient choose not to accept your recommendations, be there for them anyway. Choose to treat those around you with kindness and compassion, and you’re sure to be successful.

Dr Dallen Ricks

10-Year Member • Lubbock, Texas

Ten years in dentistry has brought so many amazing experiences to my life. I have been able to see people’s lives change as they rediscover the ability to function with a healthy and beautiful dentition. Some of the most meaningful times in dentistry for me have been when I’ve been able to help someone who is in pain, and then to see the relief on their face. I also enjoy sitting down and getting to know each patient’s story, what their fears and joys come from.

Ten years in dentistry has also surprised me with how many of our patients just want to be heard. If I was to give any advice for new or aspiring dentists, find ways to truly hear and understand the patient. This will give insight into them as a person with fears, joys, and reservations, and your ability to treat will become more fulfilling, and impactful in their life. In a world that seems to be less focused on connection and quality, there is still joy to be found in truly connecting with a patient and seeing their journey to oral health come to fruition. Truly the patient is what makes this profession so rewarding.

GOOD FELLOW

Dr Naoki “Ned” Shimizu

Good Fellow Houston, Texas

What dentistry has meant to you? For me dentistry is all about science and art. It needs to be functional and at the same time it should be aesthetic. That makes dentistry not only interesting and challenging, but also rewarding for me. It also makes patients happy.

Share a memory, a special time, or big events:

When I got the dental license in the USA in 1998. Also, when I finally got accreditation status of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. Those 2 were the biggest events in my career.

Words of wisdom for new dentists: Do what you like the best in dentistry. In that way, you will get better in that field quicker. It will also be more enjoyable!

Dr Shimizu opened his dental office in Houston in 1998.

Dr Shimizu recieived the AACD accredited member award in 2011.

Dr Shimizu and his family enjoy a trip to Palo Duro Canyon in 2020.

Alligator gar fishing at Trinity River in 2021.

Dr Tracy R. HensonMcBee

Good Fellow Lubbock, Texas

I knew I wanted to be a dentist at the age of 12. I am living the life of my dreams. I enjoy the relationship that I form with each patient and feel so blessed to be involved in an occupation that can improve people’s self-esteem by creating a beautiful smile.

Words of wisdom for new dentists: to achieve anything you have to have faith and believe in yourself, have a vision, work hard, and have determination and dedication.

Dr Yoon C. Kang

Good Fellow Carrollton, Texas

I started my own practice a few months after I graduated from Baylor College of Dentistry. I had no patient to treat on my first day, not knowing what my life was going to be in my journey ahead, and so it began. Since then, time has passed by in a blink of an eye.

Receiving a message from Suke, my classmate, who said it is time for a 25-year class reunion is an eye opener on how time flies by.

Now looking back, dentistry has a special meaning to me in a sense of my personal inner growth, to improve someone’s smile and quality of lives.

To our future dentists, do not let your first day define how your next 25 years will be!

Dr Ron C. Hill

Good Fellow • Houston, Texas

My career has not only been more fulfilling by being a member of organized dentistry, it was more rewarding for also being active and involved in organized dentistry.

Dr E. Ellen Hall

Good Fellow Plano, Texas

I am so honored to receive the Good Fellow membership award. After 25 years in practice, I have learned that it is all about the relationships that are nurtured and developed that make your dental practice and life successful. My periodontal program director and mentor at UTHSC-San Antonio, Dr James Mellonig, described it as the “Big Three”—God, Family, and Periodontics. Keeping a balance in your life with work and family is so important. I am so privileged to work with a community of outstanding dental professionals in the Plano and north Texas areas. Over the years, I have developed friendships and trust with my patients and enjoy helping them improve their oral health. I am so blessed to have my husband, Curt, and my 2 children, Charlie and Cat, who have supported and encouraged me in my career over these past 25 years.

LIFE MEMBER

Dr Robert B. Peak

Life Member Fort Worth, Texas

What an adventure. Starting with a hot August day in 1986, one week after getting married, I was surrounded by boxes of newly bought equipment in the basement labs of the old Baylor College of Dentistry, wondering how the next few years would play out. Most of that equipment, some barely used, is not with me now, but the memories of dental school, oral surgery residency, and my years of practice are ever present.

We have a unique job of privilege, that is, a privilege to treat patients. A privilege that is not to be taken lightly or for self-gain, rather, one where we can make a difference, whether it is a new smile or extracting a painful tooth or repairing a fracture. The face and faces of dentistry have changed over my career, many dear friends, mentors and colleagues have retired, but the same values we shared still percolate throughout our profession. I see it when I speak to new colleagues eager to learn, as well as share their new insight.

I do know that this is a wonderful profession. So, my advice to any young professional would be to stay true to the values that made you pursue this profession. Stay involved with organized dentistry, be an advocate for your patient, surround yourself with team members who share these values, and most importantly, listen. Listen to your patients, your staff, and those values deep within you. Always, always be giving back.

Dr Peak graduated in 1990.

I do know that this is a wonderful profession. So, my advice, to any young professional would be to stay true to the values that made you pursue this profession.

Dr Hilton N. Goldreich

Life Member

Plano, Texas

Dr Martha J. Hudson

Life Member

Deer Park, Texas

I have been active in TDA since I graduated from dental school at UTHSC-Dental Branch, Houston, in 1993. I love what TDA stands for, what it does for the profession, the way it allows us to connect with colleagues, provide better care for our patients, and continuously supports dentistry, plus CE.

I want to express my gratitude for being recognized and receiving the TDA Life Membership Award. I appreciate being recognized for my hard work and dedication. This means so much to me.

Once again, thank you TDA, for the award. I am TDA!

Dr Ronald D. Ferrell

Life Member

Corpus Christi, Texas

What has dentistry meant to you? Dentistry has afforded me the ability to support my family doing something I STILL find fun, challenging, and interesting.

Share a memory or special time: Being asked to conduct dental health programs at our children’s preschool and elementary schools. That was fun. They still remember those programs even though they’re grown and gone, and we still have patients who first met us during those programs.

Words of wisdom for new dentists: Treat every patient the way you’d want your family members to be treated. The family members you really like. (Humor)

Be a kind, honest, and conscientious dentist and the money will inevitably follow. Gimmicks come and go, but earning a good reputation is what really matters. lf you can, have someone with your best interest at the phones and at the front. A spouse or parent will watch out for the best interest of your practice. First impressions (dental pun) are everything!

Life Member Houston, Texas

Dr J. Chris Gowan

50-YEAR MEMBER

Dr Ron Collins

50-Year Member Houston, Texas

Dentistry has been very good to me. Reflecting on 50 years of practicing dentistry, I can honestly say that the most significant blessing I have received is the rewarding relationships I have developed, not only with my patients, but also with team members and my family. A special blessing has been the privilege of practicing dentistry with my son for the last 15 years. Each has helped me to be a better dentist and a better human being. I have learned from mistakes and successes over a career that at times has been rewarding, frustrating, scary, regrettable, laughable, exciting, sad, and happy, but always worth the ride. Dentistry has provided me the means to help raise 3 children who have given me 4 grandchildren. It has rewarded me with a lifestyle enabling me to travel the world visiting all 7 continents and some 60 countries. I have done dental mission trips in Mexico, Kenya, Guatemala, and Mongolia.

I have been fortunate to be involved in organized dentistry at the national, state, and local levels for the ADA, TDA, GHDS, ACD, ICD, AGD, ADI, and the Pierre Fauchard Society. I have made friendships in these organizations that represent the best of the best in dentistry. I want to encourage our newest members of the profession to become active participants in dentistry’s organizations, not only for the friendships and camaraderie, but more importantly for the influence we have in directing the future of our profession. To complacently remain on the sidelines and allow non-dentists to decide

Dr Collins treats a patient on a mission trip to Mongolia.

Dr Ron Collins is pictured with his granddaughter Clover.

our profession’s destiny is to play a fool’s game. The next generation must stay active in the political arena to ensure our profession continues to provide the very best in health care for the patients we serve.

Two of the more special moments in dentistry for me was earning mastership in the Academy of General Dentistry and being awarded 2007 Texas Dentist of the Year. Of course, it is an honor to be recognized, but more importantly are those special moments in dentistry we experience when we get a patient out of pain, or rehabilitate a smile and see the joy on the face of our patients who have suffered poor self-esteem from a lifetime of embarrassment, not wanting to smile.

As a volunteer instructor at the UT School of Dentistry at Houston, I have often told my students that when faced with a decision as to what treatment to recommend to patients, the best advice is to recommend what you would want in your own mouth, relying on your knowledge and experience at that stage of your career. In that way you can sleep well at night knowing you are recommending what you believe is in the best interest of your patient.

Dr Ron Collins has been in the private practice of dentistry in Houston since graduating from the University of Texas Dental Branch at Houston in 1971.

Dr Collins is pictured with his wife Sharon on a visit to the Iguazu Falls in Argentina; with his family at Christmas; and with his big brown trout catch on a fishing trip to Patagonia.

GOOD FELLOW

Dr Richard F. Hansard

Good Fellow Valley Mills, Texas

What dentistry had meant to me: It has meant so much! I have enjoyed seeing generation after generation of patients from ages 4 to 104! I have enjoyed working in an office with great partners: Drs Yarbro, J. New, and M. New. I have enjoyed watching my practice grow and worked with wonderful people. It has meant financial security and the ability to see the world!

Special memory: I have loved helping out at Cameron Park Zoo in Waco. I have extracted lion, bear, and orangutan teeth! Amazing!

Dr Hansard has provided dental care to a lion (top left), bear (bottom left), and orangutan (right).

Dr Hansard with his family at the beach.

Words of wisdom for new dentists: Living in a big city isn’t worth it. Find or build a group practice. Surround yourself with good, honest people. Own your practice. There is no reason not to work 5 days a week after you graduate from dental school. Live within your means!

Living in a big city isn’t worth it. Find or build a group practice. Surround yourself with good honest people. Own your practice.

Dr Hansard is pictured with his daughter (left) and wife (right).

Celebrating with his family at their Catholic mission in China Spring.

L to R: Drs Joe Yarbro, Richard Hansard, Jason New, and Mark New Jr.

60-YEAR MEMBER

Dr Terry A. Darden

60-Year Member Dallas, Texas

Following my successful grade school, middle school, and high school years, I really had no idea what my major field of study would be in college. After visiting with the medical and dental doctors in my hometown (both good men), I decided to go pre-med and pre-dental, much to the relief of my academic advisor who said I could not major in “undecided” much longer. I was accepted to both Texas and Baylor dental schools. I spoke with my dad and told him Baylor was more expensive, but I had a gut feeling that Baylor was best for me. A favorite memory for me was his reply which was that most of the money I had made in summer jobs before my 8th grade year (including my upcoming summer job) was placed in savings accounts that could be utilized for whatever expenses that would be needed since I had paid for my college with a football scholarship.

My 4 years at Baylor Dental were good years. In addition my 3 years with the U.S. Air Force dental internship program gave me a great foundation to start my dental practice. After looking at several areas in Texas, I chose Dallas to start my career in dentistry. To those of you still in dental school or starting a practice, I think you have made an excellent choice. There have been changes in dentistry, but that is true in all professions.

Just a suggestion, get to know your patients. They appreciate your interest in them and their family, as well as their dental health. One last thing, stay active in dentistry outside your office. Your ADA, TDA, and local dental society can use your time and support. The time I spent working with the TDA and ADA legislative committees were very meaningful experiences for me. Most of all, spend time with your family. Enjoy every minute—you will never look back and say I spent too much time with my family.

Cruise vacation, Norway, 2022.

Family Christmas 2022

50-YEAR MEMBER

Dr R. Dean White

50-Year Member Granbury, Texas

Wow! Fifty years! What a ride it has been, and at times I wasn’t driving. I received my dental degree at UT Houston Dental Branch in 1970, followed by a 4-year residency in oral and maxillofacial surgery at the same institution I graduated. In 1974, I opened a private practice in Bedford, Texas. I practiced for 28 years with the best partner on the planet, Dr Larry Spradley, who was my coach, my conscience, and my critic, but most of all my friend. I was fortunate to develop a practice in corrective jaw surgery and temporal mandibular arthroscopy and total joint reconstructions, which led to presentations from Singapore to Brazil to Peru. I was involved as an examiner for the

Dr White enjoys family time with his grandkids.

One of my favorite expressions is, “If you want to hear God laugh, just tell Him your plans.”

American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery for 6 years, which led to a nomination and election to the same board, where I served as president in 2000-2001. During my career I was also involved in hospital medical staff leadership and governance, and served as chief of the medical staff at Texas Health Resource (THR) HEB hospital in Bedford from 1999 to 2001.

One of my favorite expressions is, “If you want to hear God laugh, just tell Him your plans.” At the age of 55, I was told to retire by several neurosurgeons because of cervical spine issues. I was asked to serve as a medical director at THR HEB hospital with responsibilities of leadership development, orientations of new physicians and managing disruptive and impaired physicians. During the 8 years of this position with other physician leaders, we developed a novel approach to managing physicians with impairment, behavioral issues, and addictions. This led me to co-author a book on this segment of physician health, which then led to many presentations to medical staff from DFW to Oregon to Alaska to Vermont.

I was then asked to serve as faculty to present and counsel medical and dental professionals who had crossed professional boundaries, many of which were at risk of losing their professional licenses. Many had substance abuse issues, as well. I helped teach the 3-day course quarterly for 10 years, which led to 3 more books concerning physician leadership principles, medical ethics, and the challenges of retirement and professional boundaries.

But more important than all this stuff was my marriage to Vickie, my best friend, for the last 53 years, and the blessings of 3 daughters and 5 grandchildren. It has truly been an honor and privilege to help at different levels which was all made possible by my dental education and degree.

NEW DENTIST ADVICE

Be a lifelong learner. It’s what you learn after “you know it all” that really counts. Find a mentor and be a mentor. Treat everyone as you would like to be treated.

Dr Dean White with his wife Vickie on Mt. Denali.

The salmon that didn’t get away in Alaska.

Dr Dean White, Dr Jim Hupp, and Dr David Frost at The Old Course in Scotland.

Dr Maisa M. Idriss

Good Fellow • Spring, Texas

GOOD FELLOW

What dentistry has meant to me: There are many forms of art, and there is art in probably everything. But certainly no discipline brings more satisfaction, more joy, more confidence, and more smiles, than the art of making you smile, literally.

Moving from general dentistry to cosmetic was a natural transition for me, considering the fact we have an in-house dental lab. Needless to say, this is a big bonus, considering that we don’t have to depend on an external lab. This offers the convenience of fast turnaround, and the assurance that we can totally control the quality of our products. I am a big believer in comprehensive dental care where I focus on the entire mouth functioning as a unit and not be a “1 tooth Dentist.”

I am a true believer in educating my patients, as there are a lot of misconceptions, especially with teeth. Today there is a big movement in the country whereas people want “piano-key” artificial looking teeth, the “Hollywood smile”. This is Dr Idriss designing a smile.

a much-distorted picture of reality. For us the key is, “How can I make my patients’ new teeth feel and look as natural as they can be?” Of course, as I put it, “We are not the Creator, so producing totally natural looking teeth is a big challenge and can be very difficult.” I like to compare my work to a piece of art, where the painter or the sculptor tries to make his piece as natural and real as possible. This is the reason that I am not a big fan of putting “fake teeth,” so white and so unnatural that they are immediately noticed for all the wrong reasons. It’s a matter of educating patients regarding color, shape, and materials, so that they can understand what people will see every time they smile. But of course, at the end of the day, it all comes down to the patient’s personal preference and choice. We see in today’s society the massive increase in plastic and cosmetic enhancements at all levels. We can also see that people almost don’t care how unnatural they may look. We make it an important point to advise patients so that they make a very

educated decision. This particular point raises our standards to the highest level, and when you reach that top standard, is when you see the most rewarding and satisfactory results.

Special memory:

All the special memories that I have experienced have been over my career span of 30 years. All my special moments have been defined by patients of my practice. A lot of my patients have grown with me over the 30 years and have trusted in me for that long. I feel that listening and taking care of patients comes first, above anything else. The joy I receive when a patient mentions to me, “I have changed their life,” speaks volumes beyond comprehension. So, to put it in a nutshell, I don’t just have one memory, I have lots of pockets of memories that I could put into my memory journal.

Words of wisdom for new dentists: I would tell new dentists in this time and age that we live in to be compassionate and to practice dentistry not just as a career but as an art. Make sure to find your “niche” and build your practice based on that unique gift. Every day can bring new challenges and new technology. It is good to embrace new ideas and new practices; however, do not forget what made you unique. If you stick to that uniqueness, you will always outshine in this competitive world. Always educate your patients because when you do, they will understand where you are coming from and will understand the value that you are trying to give them. A preventive and comprehensive approach is extremely rewarding for your patients.

Dr Idriss’ administrative and patient coordinator team Jennifer (left) and Cheryl, RDA (right).

Above: Dr Idriss with her restorative and surgical team; her team hygienist of more than 20 years, Barbara Cox, RDH; and her in-house lab technician, Adam.

10-YEAR MEMBER

Dr Lillian Carmina Lyons

10-Year Member The Woodlands, Texas

I have been a dentist for 30 years. I owned a dental-specialty practice in Mexico City before moving to the US. Once I moved here, I began my career as a dental assistant, then became a resident of the Department of Periodontics at UTHSC School of Dentistry. After graduation, I became a clinical assistant professor for the Department of Periodontics. I have been an independent contractor and a business owner. I am the founder of Dental Specialists and Implant Center at The Woodlands, a periodontal specialty practice focused on dental implantology and oral medicine.

I currently practice in downtown Houston and in The Woodlands, Texas. I firmly believe in being part of organized dentistry and associations. That is the reason I have served on the Scientific Committee for the Greater Houston Hispanic Dental Association, and I have also been the president of the Greater Houston Society of Periodontists.

What dentistry means to you.

I feel so lucky to be able to practice what I am passionate about. Dentistry is a unique profession that combines science and artistic skills. Dentists are educators, motivators, and influencers and we have the power to make positive changes in people’s lives.

Share a memory or special time.

Early in my life I knew I wanted to be in health sciences. My mom was a nursing student at the Mexican Army Nurse School in Mexico City when she met my dad. He was a military pilot for the Mexican Army, and our family had access to the dental services at the military dental clinic. During one of my dental appointments in my teenage years, I asked my dentist about her job and what it was like to be a dentist. She explained how her job was about discovering dental problems before they became painful, treating and helping people get better, and still having time to enjoy family and friends. The way she explained it and the positivity that her voice radiated really impacted me; it was like a light bulb turned on for me.

At the same time, I needed to decide what career path to take. I always knew it was going to be in the health sciences but until that moment I was not sure in what area. I went back to my career advisor and we both researched dentistry and the description fit my personality: caring, people person, sense of helping others, hardworking, and willing to put in the hours necessary to build a practice and still be able to combine a personal and professional life. At that moment I made the decision to pursue dentistry. That has been one of the best, most important, and rewarding decisions of my life!

Provide words of wisdom for new dentists.

• Educate yourself on the business aspects of dentistry. Business awareness is important whether you want to open a dental office, work as an associate, or be an independent contractor.

• Be part of a group of similar minded people. Dentistry can be lonely, especially if you are the only dentist working in an office.

• Do something that you are passionate about. Dentistry has many sources of inspiration but also look outside the dental life: photography, writing, designing, investing, or other activities or hobbies you enjoy. This will help you to balance your career and personal life and will reduce the chances of burn-out.

• Become a mentor. Find a dental student, dental hygienist, a dental assistant, another dentist, or someone who can benefit from your experiences and guidance.

Dr Melissa S. Nix-Edge

10-Year Member Emory, Texas

I have been so blessed and fortunate to fulfill my calling to provide dental services to underserved areas for the past 15 years! Whether it be fellow colleagues or my staff at Emory Dental, I have been able to work alongside some of the best people who have the same heart and desire to help others. My advice to those coming into this noble profession is to get involved and stay connected with the Texas Dental Association. This community has allowed me to not only stay informed on what is going on within the dental field, but it has provided so many friendships and teachers! I am very grateful to be given the opportunity every day to work in this realm of healthcare, and I am excited for what the future holds for us all in the field!

LIFE MEMBER

Dr Kelly Hamblen Robinson

Life Member Lubbock, Texas

Being a dentist means so much to me! I am a third-generation dentist and was able to practice with my dad for 28 years before he retired. My mother was the office manager, and after she retired, my sister took over for her and is still running our show. Growing up in a dental family

Above and next page: Dr Robinson and her husband have led multiple trips to Mexico, Guatemala, and Haiti for dental, medical, and construction projects.

Below: During the Christmas holiday, Dr Robinson and her team visit older local patients.

and being surrounded by my loved ones each day while doing what I absolutely love is an incredible gift! The amazing team and dental patients who I have worked with over the years are truly like family. What a career—where you help someone restore dental health and beauty and then become long-lasting friends! My dental assistant and I have worked together 27 years, so you can certainly say I’ve lived the dream.

I am so grateful for my parents for being examples of such servant leaders through the years—this helped create a foundation for happiness when I took over. My parents went to Haiti when I was young on a dental mission trip that forever changed our family! I still vividly remember their stories told about how people living in utter poverty were so wonderful, thankful, and happy! In addition, how thankful we should be for all the things we have. I was so fortunate to carry on the mission trips, too. My husband and I have led multiple trips to Mexico, Guatemala, and Haiti for dental, medical, and construction projects.

Locally, one of my best memories and events that I always look forward to happens each year at Christmas. Our team takes cookies to some of our older patients, and we sing “We Wish You a Merry Christmas!” We do this right before Christmas and it’s such a sweet time to get us in the perfect frame of mind for the holiday.

Many joys, parties, celebrations, tears, deaths, tragedies, and YEARS of love have happened over the last 30 years. I love my career! I would tell a young dentist one thing: LOVE what you do, serve others well, and joy will come to you!

Dr Rhonda K. Emmons

Life Member Heath, Texas

I am thankful for the blessings the Lord has provided through the practice of dentistry. I graduated from Baylor College of Dentistry in 1993 and worked for a short time in public health and then our family had the opportunity to move to Thailand where I worked as a dentist for almost 5 years, after language study for 2 years. I practiced parttime at a Baptist Clinic and was also able to serve on mobile clinics to several Hilltribe areas in more remote areas of Northern Thailand. In 2006, the Lord provided an opportunity to purchase a private practice in Heath, Texas, and I am so thankful for His incredible provision. Dentistry has truly given me an opportunity to minister to the needs of many patients and I pray that I can continue to honor and serve Him daily in the practice, for His Glory. Without Him, I could do nothing.

I would encourage new dentists to use your gifts and talents in dentistry to help and serve your patients with grace, kindness and humility. Appreciate and show gratitude to your family who support you. God has equipped you with the knowledge and skills you have, so please use those gifts wisely to be a blessing to your family, patients, and staff.

“To God be the glory! Great things He has done!”

50-YEAR MEMBER

Dr Nixon F. Morris III

50-Year Member El Paso, Texas

What dentistry has meant to me.

I decided to “become a dentist” in my junior year of high school, which was also the year I met my wife Bonnie. I really had no idea what a dentist did since I had only been to a dentist once, but I met a man named Dr Joe Torres, here in El Paso, and I wanted to be like him and do “dentist stuff.” Miracles do happen, and if there ever was a case of divine guidance, that was it. Dentistry (and Bonnie!) were truly responsible for giving me a life 1,000 times better than I could ever have imagined. Monday was never my “worst day.” As the old adage goes, “I’m not sure I ever worked a day in my life.” I have been retired for a few years now, but my daughter took over my practice and continues to keep me involved in interesting cases and updates me on the lives of our “old patients.”

I was extremely fortunate to have never really practiced alone. My first partner and mentor was Richard McNiece. After his death, David Segapeli and then my daughter Laura Olson were my partners. Being able to participate in her graduation from the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry was amazing.

I would tell young dentists and dental students that they are entering a profession that will give back to them in personal growth and self-fulfillment more than they can possibly know. I would encourage them to become involved in organized dentistry because they will meet people that will turn out to be amazing mentors and friends. Don’t be afraid to serve in your society and work your way up through the various offices. I was honored to serve as president of the El Paso District Dental Society and work with people like Rick Black, David Wilbanks, John Wilbanks, Rene Rojas, John Purdy, Mark Duvernois, and Stephan Caldwell, along with many, many others that have been and are still are shaping the dental profession.

Dr Morris’ first treatment room with his wife and first assistant.

Pictured with his daughter, Dr Laura Olson, at UK.

To the new dentists: If at all possible, please open your own private practice. It has always been the American dream to own your own business where you are in control and work for yourself. Believe it or not, I understand all of the pros and cons, and nothing is worth giving up your autonomy. I know this is not the popular decision right now but there is nothing wrong with starting with one treatment room, hanging out your shingle (in my day the letters could only be 5 inches tall), and waiting for your first patient to come through the door. Yes, it is scary, but you will not starve. Hang on, and you will be amazed at the rewards!

P.S. Thanks again, Joe. P.P.S. I wouldn’t do a damn thing different!

Dr Michael R. McWatters

50-Year Member Gordon, Texas

For my 50-year TDA membership recognition, I want to give credit to 2 fellow Baylor College of Dentistry graduates and TDA members who gave me the opportunities that I enjoyed in 2 different phases of my dental career.

Dr Howard Ramey, who was a 1964 BCD graduate, offered me an associateship position in his dental practice in my chosen dream city, Austin, in 1973. I had applied to an ad that Howard had placed in the Texas Dental Journal during my senior year at BCD. Howard became my dental mentor, neighbor, business partner, and friend. We enjoyed scuba diving trips, fishing trips, and other adventures. Howard had been active in the Capital Area Dental Society (CADS), including serving as president. He led me into leadership positions, including as the CADS President in 1996.

Howard and I sold our practices together in 2000. For 28 years we experienced all that dental private practice and life had to offer together. Howard is now retired in Dripping Springs as a healthy active 86-year-old. He is still one of my role models.

Dr Morris and his father at his graduation from UTHSC.

Dr Amp Miller learned of my retirement from private practice, and in 2001 offered me a position teaching in his department of Restorative Sciences at BCD. Amp and I were close friends going back to that day in August 1969 when we first sat next to each other for our 4 years of dental school together at BCD. We have had 54 years of a type of friendship that is rare. I knew my retirement was too early at age 53, but I was not sure if I could be a teacher. Amp told me that with my 28 years of practicing full-time general dentistry that I had something to offer to the students from my real-world experiences in dentistry. I was very appreciative for the offer, and I began my teaching career in 2001. Amp coached me and encouraged me, giving me pushes as well as freedoms along the way. I believe that the 19 years of teaching were the best years of my dental career with the highlight of being chosen by the students as BCD Teacher of the year in 2008.

Thank you, Howard and Amp, for being in my pathway at the right times for me to have the career I had in dentistry.

Dr Morris started dental school at the University of Texas Dental Branch, which became a component of UTHSC by his graduation.

MEMBER

60-YEAR

Dr Don W. Plunket

60-Year Member Madisonville, Texas

What has dentistry meant to me?

I opened my practice in Madisonville, Texas, a long time ago! On my first day in 1962, I charged $2 for an exam and $13 for 2 X-rays and 2 extractions. Fees and dentistry have changed dramatically over the years, but I always tried to help my patients by keeping fees as reasonable for them as I could. I never raised my prices much because I just always felt sorry for people and wanted to help them have good teeth. One patient, who was an older man, used to cut firewood for me and only charged me $30 for a cord of wood. One day his little wooden house caught fire and he ran out, leaving his teeth to burn up. I still have his old burned-up dentures in a box in the back room of our house with some of my other dental memories. I made him a new set of dentures. When he came in to pay, I didn’t charge him. That was sort of a trade for firewood. That’s how smalltown dentistry worked. Through all my years of practicing dentistry in a small town, I felt many of the patients were my friends. Practicing dentistry was more than just a job—it was more about the way that it made me feel to be able to visit with my patients and help them with their dental health. After being retired for 15 years, I find myself seeing all my former patients around town and I frequently drive past my old office, and I would give anything to be able to return to dentistry today because I still love it and miss it very much. Even though I’m retired, my biggest dream is that every day I would love to wake up and go back to my office.

Here are a few of my good memories from my years in dentistry:

Two days a week, I was the dentist at one of the Texas prisons, the Walls Unit in Huntsville. I developed friendships with several of the inmates whose teeth I worked on but also with a couple that were my dental assistants. One prisoner, who was my dental assistant, lived in a cell on the 2nd floor of the Walls Unit. I sat with him in his private cell and together we watched the World Series that year. Another inmate who was my dental assistant was named Treetop. He enjoyed making fishing lures for me. When he was released, he came through my hometown, looked me up, and joined my family at our house for dinner.

A new lady started working for me. She told me she wasn’t sure whether she could stand the sight of blood. On her very first day of work, I was getting ready to extract a tooth and I told her to stand over in the corner of the room to watch the extraction. She was very near a large potted plant. While I was extracting the tooth, the young lady started feeling sick, and she fainted and fell into the potted plant next to her. After that procedure, we revived her with ammonia, and she recovered very well. She learned to tolerate blood and ended up working for me for a long time.

I had a patient in the chair, and we were discussing hunting wild hogs. We were talking about how wild hogs lived in the general area around town. Then, while looking out the window towards a large oak tree that was loaded with acorns, I saw a large black hog right there in my office yard, eating acorns. We watched him for a while, and then a man came from around the building, carrying a large rope to try to catch the hog. We laughed and were amazed that as we were discussing wild hogs eating acorns, there one was— right outside my office window.

I was doing a molar extraction on a child. While elevating the molar, it suddenly flew out and went back and down—I wasn’t sure where it went. I immediately told him to go to the hospital in Madisonville. I called the ER at the hospital and requested they take an X-ray of his stomach to find out where the tooth was. Then, the hospital nurse called and said everything was ok, that the tooth was not in the airway, but was sitting safely in his stomach waiting to be digested.

Practicing dentistry was more than just a job—it was more about the way that it made me feel to be able to visit with my patients and help them with their dental health.

MEMBER

Dr Richard M. Linden Jr

50-Year Member Dallas, Texas

Who could have surmised when this journey began so many many years ago that it would be filled with blessings beyond measure? Certainly not me. I saw a career. A living. A pursuit. A goal. No one could have told me at the time that this long and winding road would become a captivating passion and so very gratifying.

This adventure has not been mine alone. There have been so many participants as this life I chose has played out. It is difficult for me to articulate the depth of my thankfulness and gratitude to my Lord, my family, to my many friends, and to my patients. The well of support I have received from these 4 has been the constant that made everything about this endeavor possible. A very special thanks to my parents who instilled in me an undying respect and desire for education and the strength of will to pursue it. This undertaking has not been without its challenges and hurdles to overcome but overcome them we did. I say “we” because my lovely and persevering wife has been in lock step with me every mile of this journey. Whenever I sailed into stormy waters, her steady hand on the tiller kept the boat upright and on the proper compass heading.

I would be remiss if I did not also pause to thank my many patients over the years. They have been an inspiration and a source of laughter and love. Now as I see myself closer to the finish line than the starting gate, I am truly humbled by this life I have been blessed with. If I may be so bold in parting, I would like to offer this hard-earned pearl of wisdom: Be thoughtful and circumspect in the words you choose and even more so in the actions you take. Those words and actions you take often have a greater, and longer lasting impact than you imagine.

Dr Steven L. Little

50-Year Member Waco, Texas

Dentistry has been a part of my entire life. I was born while my father was a dental student in Houston. He graduated from the University of Texas School of Dentistry in 1950. Through my father Dr Robert W. Little and dentistry, I had a blessed life growing up in Waco.

It was a “no brainer” to continue my life in dentistry, so I attended the UT Dental Branch at Houston, went to the Air Force for 2 years, and then moved back to Waco to start my own practice.

During all the years that seemed to have passed so fast, dentistry has always been my rock. I never felt like I lived to do dentistry, I did dentistry to live. Through all the ups and downs, and hurdles of life, I always had being a dentist to hold things together. I served my patients well, provided for my family, and got to experience more than I ever could have wished for.

The secret to being a good dentist is simple. Follow the “Golden Rule!” Know your stuff, respect your patients and staff, communicate, and be responsible.

Hard to believe it’s been 50 years. I’m still doing dentistry now. I’d do it all over again!

Dr Steven Little, Waco, January 2023.

Dr Robert W Little with Dr Steven L Little following graduation from UTDB in May 1973.

Dr Steven Little, Waco, circa 1983.

LIFE MEMBER

Dr Song Ahn

Life Member Houston, Texas

Dentistry has always been a rewarding and challenging career for me. My emotional and physical efforts to meet both the expectations of my patients and myself, the most critical dentist in my life. I will say, however, any small success I achieved was possible because of my wife of 35-plus years, our children, my parents, and my extended family. I am also thankful to all the mentors and colleagues who guided me and helped me see “the better way.” Some of my best memories in dentistry have to be the hugs, thank you notes, and home baked goodies from patients and my staff who were appreciative of my humble work. Most recently, I received my biggest compliment from my son who became a dentist. He said, “Dad, dentistry is the best profession ever!” You can imagine that memory will live in me forever. My advice to younger dentists is the same advice I received 37 years ago, and though simple, remains true, “It’s ALL about the patients!”

Dr Colin M. Mihalik

Life Member • Corpus Christi, Texas

When I joined the student dental association in dental school, I did not really understand what organized dentistry meant, or how it would benefit me throughout my career. While in the Air Force, I witnessed how organized dentistry continuously provided education on the latest trends and looked out for my interest as an individual doctor. Over my 30 years of practice, I have seen how the ADA and TDA have worked to bring benefits for dentists, representing us to government agencies and insurance companies that do not always have the best interest of the patients or the doctors. Additionally, I have enjoyed the numerous meetings I have attended, and the friendships I have developed over the years through TDA. I sincerely appreciate ADA and TDA for trying their best to look out for us individual dentists. If you are new to dentistry, give yourself a gift by joining the ADA and TDA with access to your local district dental society. This is one of the best investments you can make as you begin your dental career.

Dr Frank R. Danna

Life Member • Castroville, Texas

Having been accepted to University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio in 1992, and the first person in my immediate and extended family to obtain a professional degree, the benefits to my family and I have been immense. I feel like a very lucky man, indeed.

After completing a General Practice Residency Program in the U.S. Air Force, I was fortunate to purchase an established dental practice from Dr Robert Reed, a retiring local dentist in Castroville, Texas. This was an opportunity for me to grow and since 1996 I have remained in private practice. Also, I believed that involving my family including my children, Frank, Paul, and Katy, would produce boundless benefits to all. I wanted to offer dental care to my patients, and loved ones, while maintaining a flexible family life and community involvement.

For new dentists, my advice would be to scale up slowly. Give yourself an opportunity to develop your skills and remember that our career is a marathon, not a sprint. I would encourage a new dentist to join their local and state dental societies such as the San Antonio District Dental Society, American Dental Association, Texas Dental Association, and Academy of General Dentistry. These organizations will become a source of support and fellowship to you.

Special recognition to Dr Tom Marshall and Dr James Summitt, as they were integral to my success. Continually offering peerless support to new dentists and fellow professionals was a lesson they taught me. They often took extra time for instruction and mentorship to myself and others.

I must mention my wife, Carmen. Her unwavering support, friendship, and partnership in our practice have been remarkable. I am proud we did it together.

Edward F. Wright

Life Member

San Antonio, Texas

Dentistry has been a wonderful profession for me. It has kept me mentally engaged and stimulated in addition to keeping me physically active.

Dr

50-Year Member San Antonio, Texas

Practicing dentistry for over 50 years.

50-YEAR MEMBER Dr Ronald L. Bolen

Dentistry has been a wonderful profession for me. I knew from early years I wanted to become a surgeon, working with my hands and helping people. As I approached my college years and began to investigate the healing professions, I began to realize that being a medical surgeon probably was not compatible timewise with my desires for a rich family life. Dentistry was perfect for me and has allowed me to enjoy my family, sports, travel, and other activities that are important to me. It has enriched me in so many ways, not primarily financially, but rather in the friendships and relationships that have developed over these many years. I have been fortunate to have had long-lasting staff, patient, and church relationships that have become such an important part of our extended family. I certainly have enjoyed serving my profession in officer positions in the Academy of General Dentistry. Continuing education has been essential to my development as a clinician, and I am forever grateful to my colleagues in this important arena.

I could not have done this without the loving support of Susie, my wife of 53 years. She has been my rock since dental school and has been a great Dr Bolen and his wife, Susie.

mother to our 3 children and a loving grandmother to our 5 grandchildren. We have enjoyed traveling the world together and supporting our very active family. I thank the Good Lord for guiding my path into the dental profession and will be ever thankful for the enjoyment of the people we have crossed paths with during these past years.

To others I would say enjoy your profession and do not let it be your entire life. As important as our profession is, it is how we serve others, not who we are as people. Strive for excellence, but know you will not be perfect. Know yourself, and take time to enjoy life and serve where you find needs.

Dr Bolen is pictured with his wife Susie and his family.

GOOD FELLOW

Dr Anna C. Ashley

Good Fellow • Corpus Christi, Texas

I knew I wanted to be a dentist when I was in 7th grade, having spent 5 long years in braces. I had a wonderful dentist as a child, Dr Bright, who always let me pick my favorite prophy paste! Because of him, I currently offer 33 flavors of prophy paste to our patients ranging from mojito to chocolate brownie, and they love it!

Dentistry has been and continues to be my happy place. I feel pure joy and happiness when I sit down in my chair to work after a long weekend. Getting ready to work with that handpiece in my hand is where I was always meant to be. I am home.

My life as a dentist is so fulfilling and challenging. Every day is problem solving and lifesaving for some, life changing for others, requires managing a team, providing a shoulder to lean on, and making quick decisions. I wouldn’t trade it for the world.

I want to thank Drs George Cloud, Wayne Morris, and Patricia Martin for paving the way before me and giving me such wonderful examples of the goodness of doctors in this profession. And for new dentists, it’s not a competition. Honor and support your colleagues. Do the right thing, and be there for each other. Never give up on the bad days because there are always great days ahead!

Above: Dr Ashley is pictured celebrating her 20th year in practice; at the Southwest Dental Conference; and on the opening day of her practice building in 2017.

Dr Tyler L. Pendergrass

Good Fellow Amarillo, Texas

My greatest memories of TDA have come from being involved in all the various levels of the TDA and especially from my time chairing the 2008 TEXAS Meeting. At the time, being on the Council of Annual Session introduced me to so many wonderful dentists throughout the US who also shared the common goal of furthering our colleagues’ dental learning through CE.

All new dentists should get involved at their local component and learn from a mentor dentist. I have had several mentors over the years, and the knowledge they gave me was invaluable.

Dr Celeste E. Latham

Good Fellow • Dallas, Texas

Dentistry has been an amazing career so far. I can’t imagine a profession as rewarding! I built my practice in 1999, and now have the office I always dreamed of. It certainly wasn’t easy, but growing my practice into what it is today has to be my proudest accomplishment. Every bit of sweat was worth it!

I am also proud to say that I’ve been involved in organized dentistry since I was a student at Baylor College of Dentistry. There were times I had to step back from leadership roles when my family was growing, but I now embrace almost every opportunity to give back to organized dentistry.

Dr Brent Cornelius Good Fellow • Keller, Texas

Over the last 25 years, I have become increasingly grateful to the ADA, TDA, and Fort Worth District Dental society for the work done on behalf of our profession. They work tirelessly to ensure the autonomy, growth, and respectability of our profession.

I am also indebted to the mentors who provided great insight and advice like, “Never stop learning,” “Join a study club,” “Learn to give painless anesthesia,” ”Work should be fun,” “Make time for family,” and “Work with people you like.” Those mentors accelerated my learning curve by a decade. But not every piece of advice was a gem.

The most well-intentioned but wrong advice I ever received was, “Just take great care of your patients, and the money will take care of itself.” I agree with the sentiment of putting patient care first, but I strongly encourage young dentists to seek out as much business education as they can find. Understanding the business of dentistry can make the difference between a career you love and a job you tolerate.

Below both: Dr Cornelius is pictured with his team and his son Garrett and daughter Allison.

50-YEAR MEMBER

dr Richard L. Gore

50-Year Member Abilene, Texas

My 50 years in dentistry has been challenging and very rewarding. I began in a solo practice, transitioned to a 2-dentist practice, and now a large group practice. The technology has changed dentistry from paper records, polymer impressions, and stone models to digital records, digital scanners, implants, and 3D-printed polymer models. Theses advancements in dentistry have given us the ability to improve the health of our patients. I have progressed through the era of “wet-fingered dentistry” through HIV paranoia and now through the COVID pandemic.

This is such a rewarding profession to help our patients look and feel better. A long time ago, I decided to take an older dentist’s advice to only work 4 days a week. After my 3-day weekend, I look forward to Monday morning to practice dentistry. This pace has allowed me to thoroughly enjoy dentistry through the many years.

Dr Stephen T. Morris

50-Year Member Alto, New Mexico

After graduation from Baylor College of Dentistry in 1974, I was fortunate to be able to return to my hometown, Fort Worth, to practice for more than 37 years. The first 15 of those years was with my father. A real uplifting experience to have a mentor that was home grown!

My memories are of all the wonderful patients I got to experience during that time. Supposedly, I was the leader and teacher for my fabulous staff, but I learned much from them than I gave. At 5:00, you are never really off of work. I constantly ran into patients at the grocery store, gas station, etc. All reiterated a story or vignette about their dental experience, all treasures.

Through 37 years I saw many changes, mostly good: clinic shirt and tie transitioning to scrubs; advent of implant procedures; advanced instrumentation in all phases; peg board to computer records. All involved a learning curve but were well worth it. At last, I was able to retire to the mountains of New Mexico where golf and pickleball are mainstays. Dentistry was the rock foundation which guided me to where I am now.

Dr Wayne E. Pundt

50-Year Member Killeen, Texas

Dentistry has meant so many things to me, but foremost is the satisfaction in my heart that I have helped so many individuals in my community as well as abroad. The Lord has blessed me as a member of this great profession for 50 years.

It has been a great honor to be involved in organized dentistry for 50 years. I graduated from Loma Linda University Dental School in 1973 and joined the TDA and ADA in September of that same year, which led to many years of service, including president of the Central Texas Dental Society. During my tenure I converted the membership files to computer format, and in 2018, I was honored to be inducted into the International College of Dentistry.

After 2 years of associate practice, I built my own building with 4 operatories. Decades later I increased the size of my practice to 8 operatories. One of my biggest joys in life was to see Drs Gary and Heather, our 2 children, follow in my footsteps and join our practice for 10 years. In June 2015 we sold our practice, and I retired. Tragically, our daughter Heather passed in December 2015. Our son Gary continues to practice dentistry here in Killeen. What a joy to mentor our children in the dental field!

I have been involved in various outreach programs for mission dentistry, including the Killeen Free Clinic, the Texas Mission of Mercy, and Habitat for Humanity.

Some of my hobbies over the years have been water skiing, snow skiing, world cruising and traveling, cross country RV trips with our family, Honda Goldwing motorcycle road trips (approximately 50,000 miles!) to include most of the western national parks, and family motor coach rallies.

I am very grateful to my wife Mary Ellen for her involvement in our dental practice. We have 3 beautiful grandchildren, Elayna, Gavin, and Ramses.

Over the last few years, I have developed several health challenges, including cancer, heart surgery, and stroke, but with my mobility scooter I have been able to enjoy life with family and friends.

Dr Pundt is pictured at his induction into the International College of Dentists.

Dr Pundt is pictured on his Honda Goldwing and with his wife Mary Ellen.

MEMBER

Dr Robert M. Reed

60-Year Member

Hondo, Texas

My name is Robert Reed, and I was a dentist in Castroville, Texas, for 33 years. My father was a dentist in Wheeler, Texas, where I was born in January 1932. He died when I was 3 years old. We moved to Praire Grove, Arkansas, with my grandparents. Mom married a dentist there and we moved to Fayetteville. I finished grade school at Oklahoma Military Academy in Claremore, Oklahoma. I joined the Navy in 1950 and was a Corpsman but was transferred to the Marines where I spent 13 months in Korea during that war. When I got out of the service, I went to Dallas where my brother was graduating from Baylor Dental School. I met my wife there while I was attending North Texas State College. We had our first son there. I taught school in Port Arthur for a year where we had a boy named Tom. Then I returned to North Texas to work on my Masters and try for dental school. I went to Baylor Dental and got through in 1963 and went to Castroville as their first dentist. We lived in Castroville for 15 years.

During that time, we had 2 more children, Mark and Laura. While there I did some missionary dental work in Mexico under a corporation we named Time for Christ. My second son who was a teacher got me into prison ministry which I did for 23 years. A patient got me into the Gideons which I have been in for 32 years. We moved to Quihi in 1978, and I ran cattle on my ranch there for about 38 years until my wife had a stroke so we sold the ranch and moved to Hondo about 8 years ago. God has been good to me and my family. We have 4 children, 12 grandchildren, and 10 great grandchildren.

What can I say but, “Praise the Lord.”

Dr Lloyd E. Lake Jr

60-Year Member Houston, Texas

Thinking back over the years, I became a dentist because of my father. He graduated from Texas Dental College in 1929, which was in Houston, Texas. He graduated from high school at 17 and dental school at 20 years of age. He had to go to court to obtain his dental license because he was only 20 years of age when he graduated. The state board of Texas would not issue a license to a person under 21 years of age.

I was exposed to a dental office and dentistry because our home was attached to my father’s dental office. As I grew up, I worked in his office keeping his account books.

In 1953, at the age of 44, my father was drafted into the Army after the Korean War. We spent 3 years in Munich, Germany. My parents loved to travel, and we saw much of Europe. I graduated from the Munich American High School in Munich.

I returned to Texas before my parents and entered Texas Christian University where I again met my childhood friend Bettye Jane Dudley. We were married and moved to Houston in 1959 where l entered the University of Texas School of Dentistry and graduated in 1963.

After graduation, we moved to the area of Clear Lake, Texas, where NASA was starting to be built. Clear Lake is now part of Houston. Because of NASA, we experienced many wonderful events and made lasting friendships. I opened my office and practiced for 56 years in the Clear Lake area. We also raised 2 wonderful daughters in Clear Lake.

Dentistry has been a wonderful and exciting profession for both me and my family, and I recommend it for anyone. We are enjoying our retirement!

I was exposed to a dental office and dentistry because our home was attached to my father’s dental office. As I grew up, I worked in his office keeping his account books.

Murphey

50-Year Member

Fort Worth, Texas

50-YEAR MEMBER dr Griffin T.

As a boy with an interest in science and an affinity for building models, plus potentially being the 7th dentist in my family, dentistry seemed a good choice as a profession. As a kid I could also play with acrylic and alginate in my dad’s orthodontic lab. Plaster was great for model railroad scenery. I’ve enjoyed restoring teeth ever since I began!

I think some of my most fulfilling times were serving in the Navy with 1st Battalion 4th Marines in the Cambodia and Vietnam evacuations of 1975. I was in charge of a team of corpsmen as part of the Battalion Aid Station, and we cared for many lightly wounded under the supervision of the USS Durham’s doctor. I took out one lateral on a refugee who fell down the accommodation ladder.

I never again saw as many pulp polyps as stared up at me from MODFL carious molars in young Marines. One day a young Marine 2LT came in. By contrast he had full mouth cast gold inlays and crowns. I complimented him on this beautiful restorative care done up in Boston and he remarked, “It’s worth it to keep your teeth!” Minutes later the bitewings came back…most of these beautiful restorations had gross caries beneath them, interproximally. Perfection is what we strive for, but we cannot always win against dental disease. We must remain vigilant. I was to see many more failed full mouth restoration cases in the future.

My Navy time was only 2 years, but I certainly learned a lot, and I’ve never regretted it. I am 73 and a bit mobility compromised, but my eyes and hands are still good; so inasmuch as I still find dentistry fulfilling, I hope to stay with it a while longer.

That’s my story for publication, anyway!

On the flight deck of USS Okinawa, a helicopter carrier, 1975.

Pictured with Vietnamese refugee children, 1975.

Dr Murphey performs civic action medcap-oral surgery on the beach in the Phillippines, 1975.

Dr Ronald C. Trowbridge

50-Year Member

San Antonio, Texas

Fifty years seems to have come quickly.

Organized dentistry has been great; made many friends and worked with some great people along the way—local, state, and national. I would recommend involvement, at some level, for all dentists entering the profession (in whatever form it may be— private practice, research, teaching, etc.).

As has been said by many, “It seems the only way to effectively advocate our position on the many issues that confront us is through the united voice of a larger organization.”

Some of the 4,500 refugees that boarded USS Durham at Phan Rang RVN, April 4, 1975.

As a boy with an interest in science and an affinity for building models, plus potentially family, dentistry seemed a good choice as a profession.

Dr Kevin M. Altieri

Life Member Fort Worth, Texas

LIFE MEMBER

That phrase saved my life 47 years ago.

Farley’s son-in-law, Sherm Harriman, had come to Daytona to offer me an opportunity of a lifetime: a place at Cal Farley’s Boys Ranch in the Texas Panhandle. So, at 13, I flew out to Amarillo to begin an adventure that has been a fantastic and blessed journey.

Boys Ranch provided the structure, love, and discipline I needed—life-long friendships developed, especially with volunteer dentist Dr Wayne McEntire, who came out every week to take care of us. He would drive his ‘vette to the dining hall and have arm wrestling matches on its hood with the guys, always encouraging us to give our all and usually let us win; always encouraging us. Soon, that friendship grew and his family made me part of theirs. Wayne, Pat, and their daughter were the motivating factors for me to decide on dentistry as a pathway to a better life.

I graduated from Baylor College of Dentistry in ’92 and then residency at the VA hospital in Temple. It was there that I chose my direction in dentistry. Dr Jack Gillette was our resident chief. He was always pushing us to be our best, stating that we were to strive for perfection, settling only for excellence. To be excellent (sounds like a Bill and Ted Adventure) we needed to pursue our learning and mastery through great teachers such as Pankey and Dawson. My wife blames Jack for turning me into a CE junkie. Dr Bill Frick, our OMFS instructor, spent countless hours having wonderful talks and providing advice on the human aspects of dentistry.

I finally settled in Fort Worth in ’94, and bought a small practice and was a part-time associate for one of the finest

“It’s not where you’ve been, but where you’re going that counts!”

—Cal Farley

Pictured at ICOI Fellowship.

Drs Wayne McEntire and Altieri.

Pictured with Sherm and Genie Harriman. Mr Harriman offered a young Dr Altieri a position at Cal Farley’s Boys Ranch in Amarillo.

Dr Altieri is pictured with his daughter Nicole, wife Tierni, and son Vincent.

dentists and men, Dr Doug Martin, a dentist’s dentist. He was great teacher and mentor. He helped me to be a better dentist and person. Yet he could never get me out on the golf course.

My wife Tierni and I started our family on a small ranch in the football capitol of Texas, Aledo. We began with dogs, longhorns, and horses, finally working our way to kids. Our son Vincent is a senior at the University of Arkansas studying kinesiology and plays rugby for the university’s team. Our daughter Nicole is an ag business/ animal science freshman at Tarleton State kicking up dust barrel racing for the school’s rodeo team. At least she’s not riding bulls! Dr Walter Williams, who helped me strengthen my faith in Christ, knew I was originally from Guatemala and had been taken from my family there. He convinced me that he had to take his wife to Italy for their anniversary and asked if I would take his place on his yearly mission trip with HELPS International to… Guatemala. So I applied for a passport and started planning…received denial 3 times. I even had Senators Cornyn and Hutchison and Representative Granger trying to help. I finally spoke with a person at the State Department to find out that certain documents were

never registered. I was illegal! That was straightened with benefits. In the course of getting that mess fixed, I learned of an uncle and aunt at Stanford and reached out. Word came back that family from Guatemala would be in touch. As our mission team landed, I was greeted by my brother, Mario and his family, whom I had never met. We spent our 2 R&R days at a glorious family reunion. I believe God provided the way, opening the door through dentistry, surrounding me with caring people such as Walter to unite me with family.

I think that whom we associate with contributes to our growth and success. There are several others to whom I thank for helping me on this journey. I apologize for not being able to give mention to all of you. So many friendships have developed with colleagues and patients over the years. Many have become as close to family as can be.

Our profession is the pinnacle of human relations. Not only are we blessed with the humbling privilege of caring for our patients, we are included in our patients’ happiness and sorrows. So, from that promise and handshake 47 years ago, it truly has been a fantastic journey. I’m still excited to see where this is going.

Above: Dr Altieri is reunited with his family in Guatemala; Dr Altieri AKA “Luigi” and his brother Mario, who he met in 2005; and at the Grand Canyon.

Pictured with Drs Schubert Sapian, Gregg Tillman, Bob Peak, and Chris Sorokolit. HELPS International Mission

Dr Jack Gillette

Dr Walter Williams

GOOD FELLOW

Dr Andy B. Duke

Good Fellow • Beaumont, Texas

What dentistry has meant to me.

Dentistry has truly been fantastic. I am so thankful to do work I enjoy, and I have been so blessed with a large group of loyal, hardworking, committed, and value-driven partners, advisors, and co-workers. We have incredible patients that allow us to provide for their oral health. In the end it is about the relationships we develop and enjoy as we support one another along life’s road, and dentistry has given me deep, rich, meaningful relationships and purpose that I hope I have been able to honor in return. It has given me opportunities that few professions provide and allowed a little boy, who was inspired by his uncle, encouraged by his dad, loved by his mother, and put up with by his wife, to fulfill his working and family dreams.

Share a memory, a special time, or a day I will never forget. After 2 years as an associate, I spent more money than I thought I would ever make to purchase the practice in which I still work. Two days later (on Good Friday) it almost burned to the ground. Scared, young, and dumb, all I knew to do was work, and work we did. With super support from my bankers, partners, co-workers, friends, and patients we found a temporary place to work, we rebuilt, and have continued to grow ever since.

I will never forget sitting in the back door frame of the office building head hanging low, smoke burning my lungs, fans sucking air out of the building, water dripping from everywhere, flashing lights in the alleyway, and local public servants buzzing around the parking lot taking care of us and doing an excellent job. Needless to say, we have never worked a Good Friday since, and we remember the fire of 2000 each year with an office and family crawfish boil. It reminds me and all of our team how quickly things can change and how blessed our office has truly been over the years.

Words of wisdom for new dentists.

In reference to dentistry and your work life: Never define or limit yourself by what you do not want to do or by what you are unwilling to do.

Dr Duke and his office staff, 2023.

Dr George M. Angelos

Good Fellow • Harlingen, Texas

I started my dental career in Texas on September 7, 1982, when I reported to the Brownsville Community Health Center (a nonprofit community/migrant health center) in Brownsville, Texas, to fulfill a U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS)/National Health Service Corps (NHSC) scholarship obligation for attending the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. In 1988 I completed a pediatric dentistry residency program at the University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio. There I met my wife, Kimberly, who was in the RDH program. After 14 years at the Community Health Center, I went into private practice in 1998 by purchasing a pediatric dental practice in Harlingen, where I continue to practice.

While at the Community Health Center (CHC), I worked on a variety of projects, including providing sealants for children at a migrant school, testing the water fluoride levels in the Colonias, and developing the “Well Baby Dental Check,” what is now known as infant oral health. I also supervised third-year dental students and GPR students from the dental school in San Antonio, dental students, and dental hygiene students from the dental school in Houston via multiple faculty appointments with both universities. Many of those students now practice in south Texas. However, my main function at the CHC was delivering pediatric dental care and functioning as the department dental director. For many years I was the only pediatric dentist from Brownsville to McAllen.

My pediatric dental practice in Harlingen has the distinction of providing about 18,000 pediatric dental rehabilitations using office-based general anesthesia (GA). All the office-based anesthesia (OBA) was administered by dentistanesthesiologists (DAs). All cases utilized a standard anesthesia machine except those prior to 7/15, which were TIVA (total intravenous anesthesia) with an infusion pump and open guarded airway. Providing comprehensive rehabilitations working with DAs, Drs Chris Ballard, Jerry Teague, Mark Saxen, Jarom Heaton, Kevin Smith, P. Tyler Rammel, Jonathan Bancroft, and Gregory Walton, among others, has been rewarding.

I am currently working with Dr Jonathan Wong, a DA in Virginia, to publish a series of articles on OBA including a cost comparison of OBA to hospital GA and moderate sedation, safety, and access to care. I estimate that I’ve saved the Texas State Medicaid program about $10 million in facility fees (facility fee - $600) during my career.

With the volume of pediatric rehabilitations performed, I’ve had the opportunity to work on efficiency with attention to detail to pediatric rehabilitations. I have a technique article on SSCs that has been accepted for publication in the Journal of Clinical Pediatric Dentistry that may interest readers. It’s a review of traditional SSC techniques and a new previously unreported technique to avoid opening the bite when placing SSCs on canines during a rehabilitation. Lastly, I’m proud to have had a “small” part in Stephen Wilson’s book, “Oral Sedation for Dental Procedures in Children.”

I have a special interest in chart documentation and do not find current electronic dental records very complete. I’m currently seeking a patent on a risk management system I’ve developed and use at my office to address this issue.

My 40 years of practicing in south Texas have been rewarding and enjoyable; the people, the culture, the hunting and fishing, the friends, my colleagues, and the patients!

Dr Katrinia S. McBride

10-Year Member

Krum, Texas

Dr Manishkumar Patel

10-Year Member • Grand Prairie, Texas

Dr Tina Y. Chang

10-Year Member The Woodlands, Texas

Dentistry as a profession has been rewarding and humbling. It has its good days and bad ones, but each day is its own adventure and never boring. My advice to new dentists is to be grateful for what you do and love the people you serve. It’s this mindset that will help you get through the rough patches and help you thrive as a dentist. And more importantly, surround yourself with mentors and peers you can trust to journey alongside you. Cheers!

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

Galatians 6:9

Dr Doris Doleyres

10-Year Member Edinburg, Texas

Dr Manishkumar Patel and his staff volunteer at Grand Prairie Homeless Outreach Organization and provide food and blankets at Grand Prairie Paws Adoption Center.

LIFE MEMBER

Dr Clark D. Colville

Life Member • Seguin, Texas

Thirty years. A long road traveled in the dental profession. Reflecting on my decision to become a dentist when I was still in high school, I can’t help but wonder what any other life could have been. Like many of my colleagues, the path through school had its ups and downs, but through it all I came out of school with enthusiasm to start a career and a few life-long friends. Every day is different. Every patient presents their own unique circumstances; and then we cross paths. Dental work is what we do, but more importantly each day provides an opportunity to make someone else’s life a little better. It is still exciting and challenging, and I don’t know how many can say that after 30 years of work in the same field. It’s equally important to recognize that we work as a team in dentistry. I have been blessed with a wonderful staff, many who have been with me for 20 years or more. The quality of the care we give reflects the pride and commitment of our team each day.

I am fortunate in many ways. I have had the privilege of having several outstanding dental and orthodontic professors teach me the technical aspects of dentistry and orthodontics. Several of those relationships have been continuous from the time of my graduation, from orthodontic residency in Houston, in 1993, through today. My mentors encouraged me along the way to give back and teach. This year will be my official 15th year teaching in the orthodontic residency program in Houston. I am grateful for the time I get to spend coaching and teaching new dentists who are just starting their journey.

Similarly, being involved in organized dentistry has given me the pleasure of meeting hundreds of other dental professionals from around the country. Serving in leadership positions at local, state, regional and national levels has been a wonderful experience. Working on committees, councils, and task forces has been a labor of love because the work is necessary to continue to protect the profession for those that follow in our footsteps. In fact, it has really taken on a new meaning now that my youngest daughter has started dental school this year.

Some 20 years ago I remember watching an interview of Red McCombs, renowned car dealer and owner of the Spurs and Minnesota Vikings during his illustrious business career. His advice was simple, “Never pass up an opportunity to lead.” I would have to say that was some of the best advice I followed. My hope is that young doctors will read this and remember it when asked to become involved in any organization-be it organized dentistry, church, or civic organizations. Without fail, my colleagues who give back to the profession all talk about the friendships made during their years of service as the greatest personal benefit. When all is said and done, I will be content knowing I have left the profession better than when I did my first exam over 30 years ago.

Dr Colville with Rep Brian Babbin in Washington, D.C.

Dr Colville and his 1993 classmates with Dr Bonham Magness who taught at UT Houston for over 50 years.

Dr Kevin D. Clardy

Life Member Brownwood, Texas

I first developed an interest in the dental field as a junior in high school. My high school biology teacher invited the students to attend an event at a health career school in Dallas. The event had speakers from different healthcare fields. One of the speakers was a dentist from the Baylor College of Dentistry. He showed us a few dental cases but the one I remembered was a patient that had so much heavy calculus that his teeth were totally covered and what they looked like after treatment. I came home from the event wanting to pursue dentistry as a career.

I attended Texas Tech University, then attended UT Dental School in San Antonio. I met my spouse as a freshman in college. She was a business finance major. She worked as a commercial loan officer at a bank while I was in dental school and residency. Her business background has helped our practice tremendously.

February 2024 will mark 30 years since starting my private practice in Brownwood, Texas. It is hard to believe that much time has passed and that I have been a member of the ADA and TDA long enough to qualify for the Life membership recognition. I have valued my membership in the TDA and my local dental society (Heart of Texas District Dental Society). When I first started, the “older” dentists in my society were very friendly and encouraging. Now that I am one of the “older” members, I see a lot of younger dentists that are very enthusiastic about being involved which gives me great confidence in the future of dentistry in Texas. I often drive 2 hours each way to attend our dental society meeting but I feel it is worth the time and effort it takes and I would encourage all dentists to become involved in your local dental society.

During my senior year of dental school, I applied and was accepted into the General Practice Residency at UTHSC San Antonio. I chose that 2-year residency program because I knew I wanted to live and practice in a rural part of Texas, even though I was raised in the DFW area. Practicing in a more rural area of Texas has provided an excellent opportunity to offer a wide range of dental services to my patients and raise a family in a community that has a lot to offer such as good schools, churches, and overall great quality of life. I would highly recommend dentists consider moving, practicing and living in a rural area of the state.

I would like to thank the Texas Dental Association for allowing me to be a part of the organizational side of dentistry, and I feel like the TDA has been a friend to me and a great advocate for my practice.

General Practice Residency group taken in 1991 as the program began.

50-YEAR MEMBER

Dr Ronald H. Phillips

50-Year Member

Lubbock, Texas

A big catch in Brazil, 2017!

Pictured at his grandson’s commission into the US Marines, Quantico, Virginia.

Dr Phillips takes photos at a July 4th celebration in Lubbock.

Dr Hal Florence

50-Year Member Athens, Texas

Dr Philip J. Cullen III

50-Year Member Shepherdsville, Kentucky

What dentistry has meant to me and a very memorable moment:

Throughout my entire career in El Paso, dentistry was more than a profession to me, it was my life. The ability to alleviate a patient’s pain and help them live healthier lives was always my goal. There were many memorable moments along the way, but one stands out. Upon arriving at my office early one morning I found a patient already there, sitting in his car. He was in such pain with an abscessed tooth, I took him in immediately. After the treatment he said, “Doctor, today you saved a life.” Meeting and caring for entire families in my community, from the grandparents to the youngest grandchild, has been such an honor for me.

Advice to young dentists:

A college professor, upon hearing I was going into dentistry, said, “Cullen, always be a doctor first, and not a mechanic.” Throughout my career I endeavored to do just that. Work hard, enjoy your profession, and look forward to the next chapter with anticipation.

The Next Chapter

Upon retiring in 2018, I’ve had the opportunity to travel internationally and around the US with my wife, Denise. We moved to the Bluegrass State in 2020. l still enjoy snow skiing, and golf and Kentucky has such beautiful lakes we enjoy kayaking, and water sports. Most recently, l joined several pickleball leagues. Volunteering is important to me as l’ve always enjoyed giving back to my community. Since moving to Kentucky I have volunteered with the AARP Tax-Aide program.

I’ve always been proud to be a dentist!

Dr Cullen is a member of the El Paso District Dental Society.

Dr Florence practiced for 50 years before retiring on May 15, 2023. He is pictured with his staff.

GOOD FELLOW

Dr Larry W. White

Good Fellow • Dallas, Texas

I can’t imagine any line of work that could have given me more purpose and satisfaction than my 64 years as a dental clinician —7 as a general dentist and the rest as an orthodontist (even now in my 90th year).

Dentistry wouldn’t satisfy a lot of people as a life-long profession, but if dentists completely commit themselves to their work, they will be rewarded in so many ways that it will pleasantly astonish them.

Dr Johnny G. Cailleteau

Good Fellow Austin, Texas

What dentistry has meant to me: I started my career as a mechanical engineer, a wonderful profession, and I never thought that I would change careers. That was true, until I met Dr Preston West (a local general dentist and a frequent tennis partner). Through him, I got to know a little more about the dental profession. Eventually, I went to his office and was impressed with the way dentistry affected the lives of his patients. The ability to restore function and alleviate pain was quite impressive, and, in many ways, similar to the engineering that I loved. I was sold. After graduating from the UT Houston Dental School, and spending several years in general practice, I went back to specialize in endodontics and spent half of the remainder of my career teaching at UT in Houston and at UK in Lexington, Kentucky. The last half of my career was spent in private practice in El Paso.

Dentistry provided me with a rich and rewarding career and lifestyle. I will be forever grateful to the hardworking people of the ADA and TDA, and those early dental professionals who came before me. Their foresight has made dentistry into an awesome and wellrespected profession.

To the young dentist, I offer this advice. True success takes time; if you want to be truly successful and revered, you must treat your patients, staff, and your family with the deepest respect.

Dr White grew up in New Mexico and played high school and college football in his youth. He was named by Sports Illustrated as one of the Top 50 Athletes of the Decade in New Mexico. This photo was in the first publication of Sports Illustrated, 1954.

Dr Demetra C. Jones

Good Fellow • Dallas, Texas

Dentistry has opened up so many opportunities for me. As a self-employed/private practice dentist, I have been able to adjust my schedule as needed for my children and their schedules. My daughter Corinne will graduate from Howard University in D.C. debt-free in May 2023. She has job offers already in journalism. My son Christopher will be a senior in high school at First Baptist Academy in Mesquite this upcoming Fall. It has afforded me the opportunity to care for my mother for over a decade. It has allowed me to become a real estate investor, as well. I have been blessed to serve in the Southern Dallas area for 25 years.

I love my patients and staff. I have enjoyed the journey with its ups and downs. I am grateful for the TDA. I have read all of my paper journals. I keep abreast of what is going on and what we are fighting for. Some of my former instructors and friends from Baylor College of Dentistry (now Texas A&M) hold positions in the organization. Especially during COVID the TDA really helped me get through the difficult time with information.

To new graduates, I would say have a solid faith foundation for the good and bad times. Manage your money wisely. Have a life outside of dentistry. Surround yourself with staff that are good people. Treat your patient like you would treat a family member.

Dr Laura Spencer LaCroix

Good Fellow Sugar Land, Texas

What dentistry has meant to me. Dentistry has given me a sense of purpose in that it has allowed me a critical and crucial role in health care that may sometimes be ignored. The field of dentistry has allowed me to have empathy with many of my patients which has fueled and empowered my love for what I contribute into my patient’s lives. I truly believe that a healthy mouth is the beginning to a healthy mind, body, and spirit.

A special missision trip.

A memory of a special time would be when I was in my last year of dental school where I was given the opportunity to go to Mexico on a mission trip. I was so humbled by the lack of dental care in the region where we were. We cleaned children’s teeth who presented with periodontal disease, generalized inflammation, and bleeding. I remember the dimly lit rooms that we worked in while the child would lay in their beds, and we would sit behind the head of the bed trying to do an excellent job while simultaneously being delicate and making sure not to cause any discomfort.

Words of wisdom for new dentists. My words of wisdom for new dentists would be to enjoy the very special relationships that they will form with their patients over time. Treat each patient like you would treat a family member. In turn, your patients will consider you an extended part of their family, as well. I have been blessed with being included in my patients’ weddings, graduations, birthday parties, and many other celebrations.

Elementary School Presentation

50-Year Member Refugio, Texas

50-YEAR MEMBER dr J. TIM RAINEY

When asked to summarize the last 50 years in a short sentence, the response is “Wow!! That’s been one heck of a ride!” I could not have picked a more rewarding, stimulating, and fulfilling life’s calling.

Let me digress a moment and reflect on how I arrived at this calling. From the age of 12, I understood I would need to be totally in control of my destiny. That opportunity arose from the circumstances of the era in which I earned a driver’s license at the age of 14 and found myself on the way to a construction job as a driver/worker and on my own, making my own way in this world. I was able to funnel my penchant for hard work in the Texas oil field into a self-financed scholarship, starting college at UT Austin at the ripe old age of 17, and earning a spot in the 1967 incoming class of UTDB, forming the future class of 1971 dental graduates. Because of the opportunities I took advantage of over the years, I have the distinction of being completely self-made.

My essay required for admission mentioned that I was interested in doing research while in private practice, a harbinger of my second life over the next 50 years both as a practitioner in private practice and as a research scientist. One of my advantages as a research scientist came from my choice to practice in the small rural county I was born into and have lived

and worked out of for the duration of my dental career. I have been privileged to have treated patients who were born in 3 different centuries as have my fellow classmates, and every week we now see a patient who represents a fifth-generation member of families I have treated, including several employees! The advantage this has presented is that we see on a daily basis how our treatments evolved to protect our patients’ dentitions from future treatment. An estimated 80% of ALL treatment in dentistry is treatment of failures of past “restorations.” In recently quizzing our staff, we can count NO crowns due to decay or failure of previous restorations in any of our nearly 3 generations of patients who maintained regular visits.

Dr Rainey at 40.

Dr Jim Carroll Jr

50-Year Member Sherman, Texas Baylor ‘74

I have watched an evolution within the science and practice of dentistry that could have only been imagined when my class graduated in January 1974 at Baylor. The quality of research and continuing education has brought modern dentistry to our doorstep, and I am so thankful to have been a part of this profession that has allowed me to help deliver such a great service to the citizens of our growing community in north Texas. And, more importantly, I credit my best experiences to the friendships of those patients and colleagues that have supported me and my family for so many years.

Dr Robert Black and Dr Rainey, 1983.

Dr Black, Dana Britt Alsop, and Dr Rainey, 1983.

Below are photographs of my mentor into air abrasion, Dr Robert Black observing my early minimally invasive procedures.

LIFE MEMBER

Dr Joseph Kim Drinkwater

Life Member Killeen, Texas

I am deeply honored to receive the Texas Dental Association Life Membership Award in recognition of my 30 years of continuous membership. This award holds a special place in my heart as it represents a long-standing commitment to excellence in the field of dentistry.

As I reflect on my 35-year career in dentistry, I am grateful for the many opportunities to serve my patients and community. Dentistry has been my passion since I was young, and I am fortunate to have had the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of so many individuals. Over the years, I have come to appreciate that dentistry is not just about fixing teeth but about building relationships with my patients and helping them achieve optimal oral health. My service in the US Army Reserve for 30 years was an opportunity for me to give back to my country and serve the men and women who have sacrificed so much for our

Tropic Care 2018

West Samoa Med Mission 2015

nation. My time in the military instilled in me a sense of discipline, leadership, and service, which has guided me throughout my career in dentistry.

As I look to the future, I am excited to see the next generation of dentists emerge and take up the mantle of excellence in our field. My word of wisdom for new dentists would be to never lose sight of the importance of building relationships with your patients. As dentists, we have a unique opportunity to make a positive impact on people’s lives, and this begins with treating each patient as an individual and understanding their unique needs.

Once again, I am deeply grateful to receive the Texas Dental Association Life Membership Award, and I would like to thank the TDA for their continued support of the dental profession.

COL Joel Scott Miller, DDS

Life Member Boerne, Texas

It is my privilege to be a part of the TDA for 30 consecutive years. I left private practice after 22 years to pursue another career in corporate aviation as a pilot and now Director ofAviation and Chief Pilot for Valero Energy. I have been able to continue my dental practice as an officer in the US Army Reserve Dental Corps since 2009. Being a private practice dentist is a great privilege but the most memorable work I have ever done was as an Army dentist at the Role 3 Combat Hospital at Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan in 2013. It was humbling beyond description to care for our US and NATO service members in a combat zone.

My advice to younger dentists would be to take some chances. If things aren’t working and you’re not 100% happy, make some changes. Don’t feel stuck because you’re not.

Good Fellow • San Antonio, Texas

GOOD FELLOW Dr Eduardo R. Lorenzana

I would like to thank the Texas Dental Association for this recognition, but honestly it was not necessary. It is my privilege to support the TDA in its work to serve the dental profession, our practices, and our communities. Dentistry has provided me with personal and professional fulfillment, tremendous relationships with talented colleagues across this great state, and most of all, the opportunity to serve my community and patients.

I am a second-generation dentist so I was fortunate to observe my late father, Dallas prosthodontist Dr Rafael E. Lorenzana, and his activities with Dallas County Dental Society and the TDA. He helped me understand the importance of participating in organized dentistry and staying informed and engaged with events that can impact our ability to deliver care to our patients and communities.

If I can give any advice to young dentists, it is to get involved early in the TDA and your local dental society. Involvement does not mean necessarily being a leader right off the bat; it can be involvement through your membership, your attendance. As a DENPAC member as well, I would also recommend supporting the TDA’s legislative efforts so we can maintain the relationships we need to keep our profession moving forward. The TDA is out there working hard for us, but without us, there is no TDA.

Dr Buddy D. Furqueron

Good Fellow • Henderson, Texas

What dentistry has meant to me: Dentistry is a rewarding career that has allowed me to meet amazing people & make great friendships. The work we do allows us to give back and make peoples lives better. Sometimes in small ways and sometimes very significantly.

Words of wisdom for new dentists: You will never go wrong if you keep the patient first.

Dr Ann Ngocan Le

Good Fellow • Houston, Texas

Although I did not pursue dentistry until later in my life, I have found it to be the most fulfilling career for me. It is never too late to pursue your passions. I was an engineer before I became a dentist, and I was drawn to the profession because I was intrigued by the intersection between art, science, and healthcare. I am incredibly humbled and honored to be receiving this recognition for my 25 years of service as a dentist and membership with the TDA. Looking back on my career, I can honestly say that I have found this profession to be one of the most rewarding and fulfilling paths I could have ever chosen.

Over the years, I have had the privilege of working with a countless number of patients and their families. It has been such a pleasure to see the positive impact that my work has had on their oral health and overall well-being, and I am deeply grateful for the trust that they have placed in me. I have enjoyed the opportunity to build strong, long-lasting relationships with my patients, and to see the positive impact that these relationships can have on their dental experiences.

Another one of the things that has kept me inspired throughout my career is the constant learning that comes with being a dentist. There is always something new to discover, whether it’s a new technique or technology that can help improve patient outcomes. I truly enjoy attending CE courses to not only keep up with current literature but also connect with my colleagues. Overall, I feel incredibly fortunate to have had such a fulfilling career in dentistry, and I am excited to continue serving my patients. Thank you to the TDA for this incredible honor, and for allowing me to do what I love for the past 25 years.

LIFE MEMBER

Dr Kevin J.

Donly

Life Member • Galveston, Texas

Professor and Chair (Retired), Department of Developmental Dentistry, School of Dentistry, UT Health San Antonio

Past-President, American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry

I have been a member of the American Dental Association and the Texas Dental Association for over 30 years. I graduated from Dental School in 1984 from the University of Iowa and received a Certificate in the Specialty of Pediatric Dentistry, as well as an MS degree in 1986, also from the University of Iowa. I have had the pleasure of being in academia since my graduation, first at UT Health Houston, then at the University of Iowa, and finally at UT Health San Antonio where I enjoyed serving as the pediatric dentistry program director and then chair of the Department of Developmental Dentistry. A career in dentistry has meant very much to me, teaching eager-to-learn students, performing research, and participating in organized dentistry. By far, teaching and mentoring students has been the focal point of my career which has been very satisfying.

I had the opportunity to participate in organized dentistry and my highlights included serving as the president of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the pediatric dentistry commissioner for the Commission on Dental Accreditation, and numerous expert panels on evidence-based dental topics for the American Dental Association.

My advice for new dentists is to have fun practicing dentistry, become involved in organized dentistry, and always do the very best you can for your patients!

I extend my sincere thanks to all of my dental colleagues, all the staff I have had the honor to work with, and all the students I have had the pleasure of teaching!

Donly Retirement Party, originally published in UTHealth online.

American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) 2019 Annual Meeting (L-R): AAPD CEO Dr Jon Rutkauskas, AAPD Past President Dr Keith Morley, AAPD Past President Dr Kevin Donly, AAPD Past President Dr Joseph Castellano, AAPD Past President Dr Robert Delarosa, and AAPD Past President Dr James Nickman.

Dr Alan Imrek

Life Member

Sugar Land, Texas

Dentistry has been my passion and I am very grateful to be in such an honored profession. It has allowed me to use my life to help my family, church and community. It has allowed me to serve my patients directly to the best of my ability. It has allowed me to use my hands to create improved smiles, lives and lasting memories. I love learning and was privileged to teach and be the pioneer for dental technology in Texas such as the KCP 1000, CEREC, and Water Laser. I have developed wonderful, lifelong friendships with my colleagues. I was honored to help restart the Mentorship Program, be the ASDA representative, and do dental space research with NASA as a student. I was privileged to serve in the Judicial, Peer Review and Marketing Commitees for the GHDS in Houston.

I remember as a freshman dental student back in 1990, we would have 3 or 4 bomb threats, requiring us to miss our Gross Anatomy tests on Fridays. Each successive time it would be faster until they eventually traced the call back to the dental school!

For the new dentists, continue learning. You are just at the beginning. Communicate with your mentors and colleagues regularly. Get involved with organized dentistry and remember that you represent the future of our great profession. Never allow yourself to compromise on your standards (put yourself in your patient’s place). Put the best construction on other dentists and do not make yourself into a retail (a non-professional) dentist.

GOOD FELLOW

off and on for a total of 52 years until her retirement in 2020.

Dentistry has taught me so much about leadership, business, communication, benefits of community involvement, and of course, hard work. I am still enjoying dentistry and continuing to learn as I go. I have enjoyed all the camaraderie of study clubs, continuing education courses, and working with my peers in the Katy area!

I have been blessed to work alongside some incredible team members that have become like family to me. I have also been blessed by so many great patients that have put their trust in me year after year!

Dr Derek B. McKaskle

Good Fellow • Katy, Texas

“It has been an honor and a privilege to practice dentistry in the great state of Texas for the last 25 years! I am so thankful to have been introduced to dentistry through my parents. My father Blake McKaskle (UTSD ’69) was a lifetime member of the Texas Dental Association and practiced in the Houston area for 48 years! My mother Connie McKaskle (UTSD ’68) practiced as a dental hygienist

Dentistry has also taken me to places as far as Cambodia where I have been able to provide much needed dental care for orphans and those in need of access to care. It has been such an incredible experience to be able to use my profession of dentistry to help others! I encourage those that have not taken that step to do so, it will change your life!

My words of wisdom to new dentists are to get plugged into a good continuing education program early and find some ways to give back using your time and talents. It’s so true that we always receive more than we give!

Dr McKaskle provided dental care to patients in need in Cambodia.

Dr Guss A. Sattem

Good Fellow • San Antonio, Texas

Thank you to the TDA for this recognition. I honestly had mixed feelings on submitting anything as I do not hold my dental career in any special or congratulatory regard. However, after 25 years of showing up to work and grinding away, I feel someone out there might identify with my humble perspective on the “average” dentist experience.

First, dentistry is hard. It is hard physically, emotionally, and spiritually. For every day I have felt satisfied in my work, there is a day where I know I could have done better, and then there is that day where you are walking out the door with your head down and tail tucked between your legs. This is the life of a dentist that cares, and it’s totally normal. The sooner you accept that you can’t be prefect, the sooner you are able to get back to work. It’s what makes those success cases so gratifying when they go as planned.

Looking back, I have some people to thank for getting me here. My parents for their sacrifice that only now am I truly understanding with 3 of my own. My staff who has been so loyal and is always looking out for me … thank you! Drs Art Boss and Oscar Trevino for taking a chance on a young dentist that had little to no experience. I could use another slice of humble pie for those early

days in my career and I thank them for the opportunity. Dr Scott Stafford, who was a great mentor, and I had the most fun practicing dentistry with. Drs Bloyce Britron, Eric Rindler, Ron and Greg Schlimmer, Richard Potter, the Seattle Study Club and fantasy football group (you know who you are), and my local (what I call) dental support group of Drs Zach Smith, Bart Wilson, and Landon Ludwick. ln addition, all the specialists that have helped me look like a hero all these years, I am indebted to all of you.

Most important of all is my wife, Dr Lisa Sattem. I hope you can find someone in your life that is your soul mate and is a warrior that will not only go to battle for you and your family but will lead

the way when necessary. She is the one who instills the strength to face every day and is still redefining and expanding what it is to be the “most amazing woman in the world” to me. Love you, wife! After 25 years I can offer a little advice. Exercise! Find a way to move every day, whatever it is. Your health is the one thing money can’t buy. Stop comparing yourself to other people, it will only make you belittle yourself- Dentistry can make you feel like you are alone on an island...find a couple close colleagues that you can go to, judge free, for advice and consolation. I cannot stress this enough. Be slow to judge other dental work not done by you…most likely it wasn’t the fault of the dentist.

If you are early in your career and you have a free day...embrace it with both hands and enjoy it guilt free. Those days are fleeting. I am still learning. Thanks to all who have helped me along the way. I will continue to show up every day and God-willing keep practicing another 15 years. I am proud of our profession and admire those that have a passion for it. That is the daily struggle for me, but I would do it over again. Pray for those classmates who have left us too early. Be proud of yourself and remember: if it was easy, everyone would do it.

L-R: Garrett, wife Dr Lisa Sattem, Dr Sattem, Ava, and Grace.

MEMBER

Dr C. Randy Bell

50-Year Member Athens, Texas

I have been so blessed in my years of private practice, really beyond words! Why? Several reasons: as an imperfect Christian, I have attempted to depend on our Lord for whatever I did in life and dentistry. I became at the top of the list. I have no medical/dental family in my life and after a lot of prayer, I felt led to become a dentist and visited several practices to confirm in my mind, as strange as that sounds to some, that is where I felt He was leading me to a dental career. Throughout my practice with all the ups and downs of a very large and busy practice in Kingwood, I felt His presence. Secondly, I prayed about everyone one I hired which ended up with long-term employees that were wonderful assistants and hygienists that became like family through the years. I honestly credit the Lord and my staff for my success more than anything else! Highlights of my dental world was 4 years, a week at a time, I was blessed to go on mission trips with medical doctors, eye doctors, along with other specialties in Guatemala to treat those wonderful people in a very difficult environment. And lastly, I joined the Air Force while in dental school and after graduation from dental school was stationed at Randolph Air Force Base treating returning Vietnam veterans, which was another highlight of my dental career, and after 2 years of serving, set up my private practice in Kingwood. After 38 years in Kingwood, I sold my practice, and my wife and I moved to Athens to be closer to our kids and grandkids in Dallas/Fort Worth. I worked with a young dentist in Athens along with going back to Kingwood to help the dentist that I sold my practice to for a while.

In regards to new dentists, I would suggest to them to think long and hard about having several dentists in your practice that do what you do, which can complicate management and reduce patients depending on you, more staff to manage, etc. Obviously, just my experience and realize that you should visit one or more of those practices and see what you think.

In conclusion, I could go on and on with the joys I have been blessed with in the dental world. I have included a picture of some of my long-term staff members that were such a key to our success!

I feel so blessed to have had a life in dentistry!

Dr Randy C. Bell and some of his long-term staff.

Dr Tom W. Dawson

50-Year Member Arlington, Texas

Today is full of so many opportunities for new dentists. I would like to offer one good choice for consideration!

I was blessed to be influenced and mentored in my dental career by Dr L. D. Pankey and Dr Peter Dawson. Pete once said, “I believe the dentist who truly cares enough for his patients to master his skills and provide optimal treatment in a caring atmosphere will find more reward, more fulfillment, more true enjoyment in practice than dentists have ever experienced.”

My entire practice life has been a pursuit of these principles. lt’s why after 50 years I choose to continue to do the very thing that has made my life so full and blessed!

Dr Tom Dawson is pictured third from left among UTDB graduates honored in 1997 by the Alumni Association with the “Master Practitioner Award.”

Good Fellow Rosharon, Texas

I have been in practice for 36 years. Dentistry has been the most satisfying and fulfilling part of my life. However, my staff’s and patients’ interpersonal relationships were more important. My philosophy of practice: Treat your staff and patients like family. We spend more time with our patients and staff than we do with our own families.

The most special moment of my life, other than marrying my wife, was when I first started treating patients with Invisalign. My wife would look at some of my cases and say: “It’s like magic!” I still use that expression during consultations and when treatment is complete.

Words of wisdom for new dentists:

1. Always remember: Teeth are connected to people.

GOOD FELLOW Dr Jeffrey M. Weiser

2. If you want to save the world, join the Peace Corp.

3. Know your limitations. You will stay out of trouble.

4. Continue learning and learn from everybody: Your peers, your staff, and your patients.

5. Take good care of your staff. They will take good care of your patients.

6. If you don’t have it in your heart, then what are in your head and wallet does not matter.

7. Lastly, follow my mother’s advice: Just be nice to everyone.

Dr Jeff Weiser and his staff.

Dr Jeff Weiser celebrating with staff.

Since 1968

Practices For Sale

WEST OF FORT WORTH: This thriving GP brought in impressive 2022 collections of $598,000+ on just 3 to 3.5 doctor and 3 hygiene days per week. Equipped with 6 treatment rooms, digital X-rays, and a 3D digital pano. With almost 1,100 active patients and averaging 23+ new patients per month, the growth potential is huge. Expand your hours and keep specialties in-house to take this practice to the next level. Opportunity ID: TX-7800

SIGNIFICANT PRICE REDUCTION: Located inside Loop 1604 in a medical complex with excellent street visibility and highway accessibility. This GP office is roughly 1,600 sq. ft. with 4 equipped ops, computerized with Easy Dental, and uses paper charts. There are approximately 1,350 active patients, 75% PPO/25% FFS. The seller has averaged $400K+ per year and currently refers out most surgery, endo, pedo, and implant placement, leaving ample opportunity for growth. Seller is willing to hear all offers. Opportunity ID: TX-7785

FULLY EQUIPPED OFFICE SPACE/LEASE IN GARLAND: Fantastic value on this 4-op facility with a lease in place and great equipment. The office is in a very busy area with easy access to main highways. If you are ready for ownership, looking to move your current practice, need more space, or are ready to add a satellite location, this is the opportunity for you! Opportunity ID: TX-7750

LARGE MEDICAID OPPORTUNITY IN MESQUITE: 90%+ children’s Medicaid patient base and a large number of new patients per month. It is located in a busy retail center with great visibility and plenty of free parking. The 1,750+ sq. ft. office has 4 fully equipped ops with one additional plumbed. The practice is on pace to collect over $960,000 for 2022. Currently, ortho, endo, implants, and some surgery are referred out, leaving ample room for growth. Opportunity ID: TX-7671

ORAL

and maxillofacial pathology case of the month

Clinical history

A 60-year-old African American female was referred to an oral surgeon (S.A.S.) for evaluation of an asymptomatic left posterior mandibular lesion. Her medical history was significant for anxiety, HIV, hypoglycemia, and osteoarthritis. A prior history of right hip replacement in 2015 and left shoulder replacement in 2016 was also disclosed. Her medications included emtricitabine, dipivefrine, and tenofovir alafenamide (Odefsey) to manage her HIV and hydrocodone bitartrate/acetaminophen (Norco 7.5) to alleviate chronic pain related to her previous surgeries. She reported a 35 pack-year history of smoking cigarettes (3/4 packs per day for 47 years) and denied alcohol consumption.

Intraoral examination revealed normal-appearing gingival mucosa distal to the left mandibular second molar without associated alveolar ridge swelling or expansion. No complaints of pain were elicited on palpation of the area. A panoramic radiograph showed a well-defined, corticated radiolucency with scalloped borders pericoronal to an impacted and inferiorly displaced left mandibular third molar (Figure 1). The lesion extended from the distal root of the left mandibular second molar to the coronoid notch. A cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scan with 3D reconstruction confirmed mild thinning of the buccal and lingual cortices (Figure 2) with no evidence of continuity defects or perforations.

AUTHORS

Victoria L. Woo, DDS Clinical Professor of Oral Pathology, Department of Diagnostic Sciences, College of Dentistry, Texas A&M University, Dallas, Texas

Brandon J. Saxe, BS, DMD

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Resident, Denver Health Medical Center, Denver, Colorado

Allison M. Lee, DDS

Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology Resident, College of Dentistry, Texas A&M University, Dallas, Texas

Steven A. Saxe, DMD Visiting Professor of Clinical Sciences

School of Dental Medicine, University of Las Vegas, Nevada, Las Vegas, Nevada

Disclosures: There are no financial, economic, or professional interest disclosures for this study.

Figure 2. A cone-beam computed tomography scan depicts mild thinning of the left mandibular buccal and lingual cortices with no significant expansion or perforation. (Axial view).

Figure 1. Initial panoramic radiograph showing a unilocular radiolucency with well-defined, corticated borders involving the left posterior mandible and ramus. The lesion was causing inferior and medial displacement of tooth #17.

ORALand maxillofacial pathology continued

Preoperative laboratory evaluation consisted of a complete blood count with differential, HIV viral load, prothrombin time, partial prothrombin time, chest x-ray, and ECG. All values were within normal limits, and HIV-1 was undetectable via polymerase chain reaction analysis.

Following a negative aspiration, a full-thickness mucoperiosteal flap was raised, and a surgical fenestration was created in the left mandibular ramus region. A white, fibrous mass surrounding a cystic lumen was exposed and carefully enucleated, yielding a specimen of approximately 2 cm in greatest dimension. The impacted third molar was identified at the most inferior aspect of the bony crypt and extracted without complication.

Pathologic findings

Histopathologic examination revealed a cyst lined by predominately thin stratified squamous epithelium with focal epithelial spheres and papillary projections (“tufts”) (Figure 3A). In some areas, the luminal epithelium was composed of a single layer of cuboidal eosinophilic cells exhibiting cilia and a mildly hobnailed configuration (Figure 3B). Mucous cells, clear cells, and

Figure 3.

revealed variably thickened stratified squamous cyst lining with epithelial spheres and a papillary projection (A); lightly eosinophilic luminal cells, some exhibiting surface cilia and hobnailing (B); numerous mucous cells (C); and intraepithelial microcysts (D). (A, hematoxylin and eosin [H&E], original magnification x 100; B, H&E, x 200; C, H&E, x 100; D, H&E, x 100).

3A

Histopathologic examination of the enucleated specimen

3B

intraepithelial microcysts were also identified (Figure 3C and D).

The patient was seen for reevaluation at two weeks and again at 6 months post-operatively with no evidence of recurrence. A panoramic radiograph taken at the 6-month visit showed progressive bone fill of the surgical site (Figure 4).

What is the most likely diagnosis?

See page 377 for the answer and discussion.

Figure 4. Follow-up panoramic image taken 6 months post-operatively showing bone fill of the surgical defect.

3C

3D

Those in the dental community who have recently passed

Corwin Lester Anderegg

Fredericksburg

March 5, 1933–January 16, 2022

Good Fellow: 1981

Life: 1998

Fifty Year: 2007

Arthur E Ballard Belton

June 20, 1926–May 31, 2023

Good Fellow: 1977

Life: 1991

Fifty Year: 2002

Albert Ben Beerbower

Houston

March 23, 1927–April 19, 2023

Good Fellow: 1979

Life: 1992

Fifty Year: 2004

Bill B Carmichael

San Antonio

March 9, 1935–July 9, 2022

Good Fellow: 1991

Life: 2005

Albert L Delaney, Jr.

Liberty

February 18, 1936–March 30, 2023

Life: 2001

Fifty Year: 2013

James F Fairleigh III

Friendswood

September 24, 1931–February 22, 2022

Good Fellow: 1990

Life: 1996

Fifty Year: 2015

Jacob Geller

Houston

May 30, 1930–March 6, 2022

Life: 1995

Spicewood

April 24, 1935–June 16, 2023

Good Fellow: 2000

Life: 2004

Larry Wright Lawrence Bonham

September 7, 1938–March 31, 2023

Good Fellow: 1996

Life: 2003

Fifty Year: 2020

Frank R Miller Rockwall

January 30, 1935–August 2, 2022

Life: 2000 • Fifty Year: 2011

Alfred L Prejean, Jr.

July 25, 1926–January 26, 2022

Good Fellow: 1976

Life: 1991

Fifty Year: 2002

Phil D Prine Dallas

December 26, 1928–November 6, 2022

Good Fellow: 1983

Life: 1993

Fifty Year: 2008

Don Herbert Singletary

Richmond

August 12, 1936–November 23, 2022

Good Fellow: 1987

Life: 2001

Fifty Year: 2012

Corbett K Stephens

Austin

September 11, 1974–June 13, 2023

Arnold Valle, Jr.

Brownsville

December 23, 1930–January 30/23

Life: 1995

Fifty Year: 2010

Mark H Walters

Cedar Hill

March 26, 1927–September 15, 2022

Good Fellow: 1979

Life: 1992

Fifty Year: 2010

ORAL

and maxillofacial pathology diagnosis and management—from page 372

Diagnosis: Glandular Odontogenic Cyst

Discussion

Glandular odontogenic cysts (GOCs), also referred to as sialo-odontogenic cysts, are rare developmental cysts initially described in 1987 by Padayachee and Van Wyk.1 They comprise approximately 0.2% of all odontogenic cysts and most frequently occur in the fifth to seventh decades with an equal sex distribution.2,3 Approximately 80% of cases arise within the mandible, of which over 55% involve the anterior regions.3 The clinical presentation varies depending on the size and location of the lesion. Small cysts are usually asymptomatic, while larger lesions may cause expansion accompanied by pain and paresthesia.3 Radiographically, GOCs appear as unilocular or multilocular radiolucencies with well-defined, frequently corticated borders. Association with an impacted tooth is an uncommon finding and, when encountered, poses diagnostic challenges due to overlapping features with other odontogenic cysts.

Histologic examination of a GOC reveals a cyst lined by stratified squamous, cuboidal, or columnar epithelium that demonstrates variations in thickness due to plaque-like thickenings and epithelial spheres. The connective tissue wall is typically uninflamed and meets the epithelium at a flat interface.2,4 The luminal epithelial cells are often eosinophilic and may at times demonstrate a hobnailed configuration and apocrine snouting.3 Other cell types, such as ciliated and clear cells, are occasionally seen. Mucous cells are present in approximately 70% of cases and can be observed within the epithelium singly, in small aggregates, or lining intraepithelial microcysts or glandular spaces.3

The histologic differential diagnosis includes odontogenic cysts with metaplastic or prosoplastic changes, low-grade intraosseous mucoepidermoid carcinoma, lateral periodontal cyst (LPC), and botryoid odontogenic cyst (BOC). GOC-like changes in odontogenic cysts have been attributed to the pluripotent nature of odontogenic epithelium and its ability to give rise to various cell types such as mucous cells, ciliated cells, and eosinophilic cells. Areas populated by these cells can resemble GOC but tend to be focal in the setting of a non-GOC cyst. A GOC may also demonstrate histologic overlap with a low-grade intraosseous (central) mucoepidermoid

carcinoma (MEC) as both can show an admixture of squamous and mucous cells that surround cystic spaces. Microscopic features that distinguish an intraosseous MEC from GOC include evidence of cytologic atypia, the presence of intermediate

cells, and confirmation of true bony invasion. Additionally, analysis for gene rearrangements of Mastermind Like Transcriptional Coactivator 2 (MAML2) may further support the diagnosis of MEC.5 Lastly, focal epithelial thickenings can also be found in other odontogenic cysts such as LPC and BOC; however, these cysts generally lack mucous, eosinophilic, and ciliated cells, as well as intraepithelial microcysts.2

Several studies have sought to identify histopathologic features that may aid in distinguishing GOC from its mimics (Table). Kaplan and colleagues analyzed nine microscopic characteristics in their review of 111 GOCs and designated them as a major or minor criteria based on the frequency of each parameter.2,3 They proposed that a GOC diagnosis was appropriate in lesions displaying at least the focal presence of all major criteria, noting that the minor criteria offered additional diagnostic support but were not mandatory. Similarly, Fowler et al. utilized the following ten microscopic parameters in their multicenter analysis of 67 GOC and GOC-like cases (Table)3:

1. Surface eosinophilic cuboidal cells,

2. Intraepithelial microcysts or ductlike spaces,

3. Apocrine snouting of hobnail cells,

4. Clear or vacuolated cells,

5. Variable thickness of the cyst lining,

6. Papillary projections or tufting into the cyst lumen,

Major criteria

1. Squamous epithelial lining, flat interface

2. Variations in thickness of lining with or without epithelial “spheres” or “whorls” or focal luminal proliferations; no palisades

3. Cuboidal eosinophilic cells or “hob-nail” cells

4. Mucous (goblet) cells with intraepithelial mucous pools with or without crypts lined by mucous-producing cells

5. Intraepithelial glandular microcystic or duct-like structures

Microscopic parameters

11. Surface eosinophilic cuboidal cells

Minor criteria

1. Papillary proliferation

2. Ciliated cells

3. Multicystic or multiluminal architecture.

4. Clear or vacuolated cells in basal or spinous layer

Table. Histopathologic characteristics of glandular odontogenic cyst. Adapted

12. Intraepithelial microcysts or duct-like spaces

13. Apocrine snouting of hobnail cells

14. Clear or vacuolated cells

15. Variable thickness of the cyst lining

16. Papillary projections or tufting into the cyst lumen

17. Mucous goblet cells

18. Epithelial spheres or plaque-like thickenings

19. Cilia

20. Multiple compartments

10

Adapted

7. Mucous goblet cells,

8. Epithelial spheres or plaque-like thickenings,

9. Cilia, and

10. Multiple compartments.

In this study, the authors diagnosed 46 of 67 cases as GOC, all of which fulfilled at least 6 of the above criteria. They found that the presence of 7 or more parameters was highly predictive of a GOC diagnosis, whereas the presence of 5 or fewer parameters was highly predictive of a non-GOC diagnosis.10 The authors reported that certain features— namely, the presence of microcysts, epithelial spheres, clear cells, variable thickness of the cyst lining, and multiple compartments—were encountered with significantly increased frequency (p = 0.006-0.0001) in cases diagnosed as GOC compared to non-GOC cysts.10 They also reported that the presence of microcysts (p = 0.001), clear cells (p = 0.032), and epithelial spheres (p = 0.042) appeared to be helpful in distinguishing GOCs from dentigerous cysts with metaplastic changes when their analysis was restricted to lesions associated with impacted teeth.3

The recommended treatment for GOCs is surgical excision, including enucleation or curettage with or without adjuvant measures such as peripheral ostectomy; however, marginal or segmental resections have been performed in some cases as well.6 Larger lesions may benefit from marsupialization or decompression prior to definitive therapy, although these approaches may be less effective in cases where drainage is compromised by thick, mucinous cyst contents.7 Periodic follow-up

is mandatory as recurrence rates of 30% to 50% have been reported over an average interval of 8 years.3.7 Factors associated with increased risk of recurrence include multilocularity, breaches in cortical integrity, and treatment with enucleation or curettage alone.7 The significant recurrence potential of GOCs has prompted some clinicians to advocate resection over more conservative approaches, particularly for multilocular lesions, which display the highest potential for relapse.7

Although a rare odontogenic cyst, GOC should be considered when presented with a unilocular or multilocular radiolucency, particularly in the anterior jaw region. Despite well-defined histologic parameters that may aid in diagnosis, challenges can arise in distinguishing GOCs from cysts with metaplastic change, intraosseous mucoepidermoid carcinoma, and morphologically similar developmental odontogenic cysts. Correlation between clinical, radiographic, and histopathologic findings is therefore recommended in establishing a definitive diagnosis. Treatment can range from conservative excision to more radical therapies such as marginal or segmental resection. Lesional features such as locularity and presence of cortical perforation, as well as patient-specific factors and anatomic restrictions, may influence the choice and aggressiveness of therapy. The significant recurrence potential of GOC merits thorough preoperative studies to facilitate surgical planning and periodic reevaluation following treatment to monitor for relapse or development of metachronous lesions.

REFERENCES

1. Padayachee A, Van Wyk CW. Two cystic lesions with features of both the botryoid odontogenic cyst and the central mucoepidermoid tumour: sialo-odontogenic cyst? J Oral Pathol. 1987;16(10):499-504.

2. Kaplan I, Anavi Y, Hirshberg A. Glandular odontogenic cyst: a challenge in diagnosis and treatment. Oral Dis. 2008;14(7):575-81.

3. Fowler CB, Brannon RB, Kessler HP, Castle JT, Kahn MA. Glandular odontogenic cyst: analysis of 46 cases with special emphasis on microscopic criteria for diagnosis. Head Neck Pathol. 2011;5(4):36475.

4. Kaplan I, Anavi Y, Manor R, Sulkes J, Calderon S. The use of molecular markers as an aid in the diagnosis of glandular odontogenic cyst. Oral Oncol. 2005;41(9):895-902.

5. Bishop JA, Yonescu R, Batista D, Warnock GR, Westra WH. Glandular odontogenic cysts (GOCs) lack MAML2 rearrangements: a finding to discredit the putative nature of GOC as a precursor to central mucoepidermoid carcinoma. Head Neck Pathol. 2014;8(3):287-90.

6. Urs AB, Kumar P, Augustine J, Malhotra R. Glandular odontogenic cyst: Series of five cases. J Oral Maxillofac Pathol. 2017;21(2):239243.

7. Kaplan I, Gal G, Anavi Y, Manor R, Calderon S. Glandular odontogenic cyst: treatment and recurrence. J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2005;63(4):435-41.

Are You Truly Prepared to Face an Emergency at Your Practice?

By Rose Dodson, M.S., CEO Sedation Resource, Inc.

“Annie, Annie, are you okay?”

For decades, that question has taken many back to their CPR training. Recognizing a life-threatening event, knowing the basic steps to save a life, and being comfortable performing rescue procedures are critical to emergency preparedness.

Texas regulations require emergency training and office preparedness.

Every dental practice is required to have a certain level of training for emergency preparedness. The training required varies depending on the permit level. (You can find this information at https://tsbde.texas.gov/licensing/dentists/dentist-continuingeducation.)

Whether the requirement is Basic Life Support (BLS) or Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), a core focus is airway management — rescuing a patient who is not breathing.

In addition to training requirements, Texas regulations clearly define some of the key components of preparing an office for an emergency. Yes, it’s important to have the appropriate equipment and an adequate supply of drugs. Making checklists and having an emergency plan documented are also key to emergency preparedness.

Unfortunately, having all this outlined in a 3-ring binder does not guarantee a state of readiness for a real crisis.

for your profession

This is the most effective training for an actual emergency.

If an adverse event were to occur in your office, there will be many questions posed by many people, but the most important will be the ones you ask yourself. What could you have done differently? How could you have been better prepared?

Conducting simulated, realistic drills and exercises on a regular basis in spaces where scenarios are likely to occur is the most effective way to solidify emergency management training. This allows for weaknesses in the flow to be revealed and areas that need improvement to be identified.

To facilitate realistic and regular emergency management drills, creating a training center is a solid idea. A reasonable approach is to put together a set of simulation tools.

• For basic life support, this would be a CPR manikin, a bag valve mask, and an oral airway.

• For those who are required to take ACLS/PALS, an intubation manikin would be needed, along with a few other airway adjuncts such as a laryngeal mask device and possibly a basic laryngoscope with endotracheal tubes.

• It’s a good idea to include a mock emergency drug set with properly identified drugs.

Sedation Levels

The CE requirements are in addition to any additional course required for licensure ACLS and PALS courses may not be used to fulfill the CE renewal requirement.

Level 1: Minimal Sedation

Level 2 & 3: Moderate Sedation

Six (6) hours on the administration of or medical emergencies associated with the permitted level of sedation.

Eight (8) hours on the administration of or medical emergencies associated with the permitted level of sedation.

Level 4: Deep Sedation/General Anesthia Twelve (12) hours on the administration of or medical emergencies associated with the permitted level of sedation.

Conducting simulated, realistic drills and exercises on a regular basis in spaces where scenarios are likely to occur is the most effective way to solidify emergency management training.

With “Annie” in the chair ready for her procedure, every step of the emergency process can be rehearsed. There are various ways to practice emergencies in your office.

• A simple way is to guide the team through common scenarios that could occur.

• An advanced way could be having someone with a hi-fidelity simulation manikin come to your office and conduct scenarios and provide feedback to your team.

It’s essential to conduct emergency exercises incorporating mock drills relative to the type of patients who are typically treated and make time for debriefing afterwards.

Additionally, there are several resources that provide dental-related pre-prepared mock drills and at least one online video program that guides the team through the mock drill, demonstrating airway management with a CPR manikin and an intubation manikin.

The goal is to create a culture of safety in your practice, so the entire team is well-prepared for any emergency. Reacting to a crisis will be second nature, and your Annie will be okay.

Note: Patient safety resources can be accessed online at SedationResource.com.

Sedation Resource is a customer-focused company of integrity that carries an

Texas Certification Requirements

Nitrous Oxide/Oxygen Inhalation Sedation Basic Life Support only

Level 1: Minimal Sedation Basic Life Support

Sedation Level 2, 3 & 4

Source: Texas State Board of Dental Examiners

extensive line of sedation equipment and supplies at competitive prices. TDA members receive a 10% discount on all sedation supplies and year-round discounted pricing on equipment. For more information on Sedation Resource, visit tdaperks.com (Compliance & Supplies) or call 800-753-6376.

References

Anesthesia Research Foundation (2023). Ten minutes saves a life! American Dental Society of Anesthesiology, https://www.adsa-arf.org/tenminutes.

Dental Anesthesia Online (2023). Hybrid SIMMAN team sedation training. Dental Anesthesia Online, https://www.daoce. org/hybrid-simman.cfm.

Basic Life Support and ACLS or PALS if treating adults and children 13 years of age or older (Note: PALS is required if treating children under the age of 13 years old)

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Opportunities Online at TDA.org and Printed in the Texas Dental Journal

CLASSIFIEDS INFORMATION

DEADLINE

Copy text is due the 20th of the month, 2 months prior to publication (ie, January issue has a due date of November 20.)

MONTHLY RATES

PRINT: First 30 words—$60 for ADA/TDA members & $100 for non-members. $0.10 each additional word.

ONLINE: $40 per month (no word limit). Online ads are circulated on the 1st business day of each month, however an ad can be placed within 24 business hours for an additional fee of $60.

SUBMISSION

Ads must be submitted, and are only accepted, via www.tda.org/Member-Resources/TDAClassified-Ads-Terms. By official TDA resolution, ads may not quote specific incomes or revenues and must be stated in generic terms (ie “$315,000” should be “low-to-mid-6 figures”). Journal editors reserve the right to edit and/or deny copy.

PRACTICE OPPORTUNITIES

ALL TEXAS LISTINGS FOR MCLERRAN & ASSOCIATES. AUSTIN-NORTH (ID #604): Legacy FFS practice with an impeccable reputation located in a budding community north of Austin. The office has relied solely on word of mouth referrals with very little marketing/advertising and refers out many specialty procedures leading to upside potential for an incoming buyer. The real estate is also available for purchase. HOUSTONSOUTHEAST (ID #592): Legacy practice in a growing suburb southeast of Houston, large, multi-generational, PPO/FFS patient base, and annual revenue of 7 figures. Located in a high visibility retail location that contains 5 fullyequipped operatories, digital radiography, and computers throughout. With many specialty procedures being referred out, little to no external marketing or advertising, and robust hygiene recall, this practice offers significant upside potential. The real estate is also available for purchase. HOUSTONNORTHEAST, PEDO (ID #596): Pediatric dentistry practice in NE Houston suburb. High visibility retail center, 2,500+ sq ft office featuring 6 ops, computers throughout, digital radiography, intra-oral cameras, and paperless

charts. It has a growing active patient base, sees 80 new patients per month, and has an excellent online reputation. HOUSTONNORTHWEST (ID #603): State-of-the-art, FFS/PPO general dentistry practice located in a booming suburb of Northwest Houston in a high-visibility retail shopping center, 7 ops (4 fully equipped), digital radiography, computers in operatories, intraoral cameras, a digital scanner, and a digital pano. Stellar online reputation and revenue in the high-6 figures.

NORTHEAST TEXAS (ID #584): 100% FFS general dentistry practice in a desirable town in northeast Texas with 7 figures in revenue and strong net income. The turn-key practice features 4 fully equipped operatories with digital radiography, intra oral cameras, paperless charts, CBCT, and a digital scanner.

SAN ANTONIO (ID #582): Well-established, PPO/FFS family practice in central San Antonio in a high visibility building. 4 fully equipped ops, digital radiography, a digital pano, intraoral cameras, and computers in all ops. Large active patient base and a robust hygiene recall program with no website and minimal external marketing efforts and significant growth potential by way of expanding services to include endodontics, implant placement, ortho, and oral surgery. SOUTH TEXAS (ID

#585): Majority PPO/FFS GD family practice in south Texas. 1,900 sq ft office, 3 fully equipped operatories, computers in all operatories, digital radiography, digital pano, intraoral cameras, digital scanner, and paperless charts. Strong active patient base, an average monthly new patient count of 45+ (over past 12 months) on limited external marketing efforts, healthy hygiene recall program (20% of annual production) and primed for continued success and future growth. TO REQUEST

MORE INFORMATION ON MCLERRAN & ASSOCIATESí LISTINGS: Please register at www.dentaltransitions.com or contact us at 512-900-7989 or info@dentaltransitions. com.

AUSTIN: Fee-for-service private practice, 45 years same location with a 10-15 mile panoramic view over downtown Austin skyline. Associate to buy with a preferred long transition for the senior doctor. Nine years remaining current lease. Tremendous amount of residential growth immediately outside our huge windows. Ideally a GP interested in learning full scale orthodontics. Please email for information, info@austinskylinedental.com.

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BEAUMONT: GENERAL (REFERENCE

“BEAUMONT”). Small town practice near a main thoroughfare. 80 miles east of Houston. Collections in 7 figures. Country living, close enough to Houston for small commute. Practice in a stand-alone building built in 1970. The office is 1,675 sq ft with 4 total operatories, 2 operatories for hygiene and 2 operatories for dentistry. Contains reception area, dentist office, sterilization area, lab area. Majority of patients are 30 to 65 years old. Practice has operated at this location for over 38 years. Practice sees patients about 16 days a month. Collection ratio of 100%. The practice is a fee-for-service practice. Building is owned by dentist and is available for sale. Contact Christopher Dunn at 800-930-8017 or christopher@ddrdental.com.

HOUSTON

(SHARPSTOWN AREA): GENERAL (REFERENCE

“SHARPSTOWN GENERAL”). MOTIVATED SELLER. Well-established general dentist with high6 figure gross production. Comprehensive general dentistry in the southwest Houston area focused on children (Medicaid). Very, very high profitability. 1,300 sq ft, 4 operatories in single building. 95% collection ratio. Over 1,200 active patients. 20% Medicaid, 45% PPO, and 35% fee-for-service. 30% of patients younger than 30. Office open 6 days a week

and accepts Medicaid. Contact Christopher Dunn at 800-930-8017 or christopher@ ddrdental.com. HOUSTON (BAYTOWN AREA)GENERAL (REFERENCE “BAYTOWN GENERAL”)

MOTIVATED SELLER. Well-established general practice with mid-6 figure gross production. Comprehensive general dentistry in Baytown on the east side of Houston. Great opportunity for growth! 1,400 sq ft, 4 operatories in single story building. 100% collection ratio. 100% fee for service. Practice focuses on restorative, cosmetic and implant dental procedures. Office open 3.5 days a week. Practice area is owned by dentist and is available for sale. Contact Christopher Dunn at 800-930-8017 or christopher@ddrdental.com. WEST OF AUSTIN: ORTHODONTIC (REFERENCE “HILL COUNTRY

ORTHO”). Located in a rapidly growing small town, this practice is in the heart of the Texas hill country. This practice serves the youth of the area. There are 4 operatories in the practice. The practice is 100% fee-for-service. Orthodontic care is the only service provided at this office. 1,300 sq ft. Open 4 days per week. Digital X-rays and pano and Cloud9Ortho software. The practice has excellent visibility and is located near a hospital. Contact Christopher Dunn at 800-930-8017 or christopher@ddrdental.com.

HOUSTON, COLLEGE STATION, AND LUFKIN (DDR DENTAL Listings). (See also AUSTIN for other DDR Dental listings and visit www.

DDRDental.com for full details. LUFKIN: GENERAL practice on a high visibility outer loop highway near mall, hospital and mature neighborhoods. Located within a beautiful single-story, free-standing building, built in 1996 and is ALSO available for purchase. Natural light from large windows within 2,300 sq ft with 4 operatories (2 hygiene and 2 dental). Includes a reception area, dentist office, a sterilization area, lab area, and break room. All operatories fully equipped. Does not have a pano but does have digital X-ray. Production is 50% FFS and 50% PPO (no Medicaid), with collection ratio above 95%. Providing general dental and cosmetic procedures, producing mid-6 figure gross collections. Contact Christopher Dunn at 800930-8017 or Christopher@DDRDental.com and reference “Lufkin General or TX#540”.

HOUSTON: GENERAL (SHARPSTOWN). Well Established general dentist with high-6 figure gross production. Comprehensive general dentistry in the southwest Houston area focused on children (Medicaid). Very, very high profitability. 1,300 sq ft, 4 operatories in single building. 95% collection ratio. Over

1,200 active patients. 20% Medicaid, 45% PPO, and 35% fee-for-service. 30% of patients younger than 30. Office open 6 days a week and accepts Medicaid. Contact Chrissy Dunn at 800-930-8017 or chrissy@ddrdental. com and reference “Sharpstown General or TX#548”. HOUSTON: GENERAL (PEARLAND AREA). General located in southeast Houston near Beltway 8. It is in a freestanding building. Dentist has ownership in the building and would like to sell the ownership in the building

McLerran & Associates is the largest dental practice brokerage firm in Texas.

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with the practice. One office currently in use by seller. A 60 percent of patients age 31 to 80 and 20% 80 and above. Four operatories in use, plumbed for 5 operatories. Digital pano and digital X-ray. Contact Christopher Dunn at 800-930-8017 or christopher@ddrdental.com and reference “Pearland General or TX#538”.

HOUSTON: PEDIATRIC (NORTH HOUSTON). This practice is located in a highly soughtafter upscale neighborhood. It is on a major thoroughfare with high visibility in a strip shopping center. The practice has 3 operatories for hygiene and 2 for dentistry. Nitrous is plumbed for all operatories. The practice has digital X-rays and is fully computerized. The practice was completely renovated in 2018. The practice is only open 3.5 days per week. Contact Christopher Dunn at 800-930-8017 or christopher@ddrdental.com and reference “North Houston or TX#562”. WEST HOUSTON: MOTIVATED SELLER. Medicaid practice with production over 6 figures. Three operatories in 1,200 sq ft in a strip shopping center. Equipment is within 10 years of age. Has a pano and digital X-ray. Great location. If interested contact chrissy@ddrdental.com. Reference “West Houston General or TX#559”.

PORTLAND, TEXAS: Seeking full time associate in an established, fee-for-service, high

quality dental practice. This is an exceptional opportunity to move into partnership after a successful initial employment phase. Must be committed to providing optimal patient care with exceptional technical skills, strong people skills and a passion for excellence. This practice has a dynamic, experienced team and a strong emphasis on CE and professional growth. Please send CV and a letter outlining your future objectives and goals to pam@ lifetransitions.com.

SOUTHEAST HOUSTON: Above mid-6 figures of adjusted net production and almost full collection (97%). Fee-for-service and PPO practice, highest-net income. The total collection over total production is about 90%. 4 days/week, free weekends. No Medicaid, No HMO/DMO, no in-network and no hassle. This practice has been in this area for over 40 years; the current practice location was built in 2006 in a new building with all new equipment. 4,000 sq ft, 5 fully equipped operatories, and 5 additional operatories plumbed. CBCT with pano and digital X-ray with a Phosphor-Plate scanner require little to no maintenance. We have a few digital sensors too. Microscopes and Fotona Lasers are available. Doctors over 70 years of age are ready to retire. Instead of using a broker, we are willing to provide a

discount equal to the broker fee. Interested parties can contact us by calling or texting our personal cell number 346-754-9643. Email: smile.office@proton.me. Principals only. Sales agents and buyers bonded to the broker, please don’t contact this sales poster. Do NOT contact us with unsolicited services or offers.

WATSON BROWN PRACTICES FOR SALE:

Practices for sale in Texas and surrounding states, For more information and current listings please visit our website at www. adstexas.com or call us at 469-222-3200 to speak with Frank or Jeremy.

OFFICE SPACE

SPRING: Space for lease; up to 4,875 sq ft. Build to suit located in master-planned Harmony Commons, 5 miles from Exxon campus. Great demographics, high median income, growing area. Brand new, modern construction. Available early 2024. Medical-only building with an orthodontist as a committed tenant. Contact 832-545-9376.

POSITION WANTED

ROANOKE: Dental assistant needed! We are seeking a dental assistant to join our team.

Our office is looking for motivated applicants with a friendly, helpful and hardworking disposition; someone who values successful interactions with patients and desires to grow in a flourishing office. This role provides the selected individual with an opportunity to work with a skilled and efficient doctor in a thriving team. We are a private dental practice, serving the growing community of Roanoke. Email kristin@westdentalcaretx.com.

FOR SALE

MCKINNEY: Pharengometer & Rhinometer for sale, plus all accessories. Purchased 3 years ago. Also includes a laptop with the software added for travel between locations. $20,000 or best offer. Ed McElroy, DDS, 214-551-8861, edmcelroy50@yahoo.com.

INTERIM SERVICES

HAVE

MIRROR AND EXPLORER, WILL

TRAVEL: Sick leave, maternity leave, vacation, or death, I will cover your general or pediatric practice. Call Robert Zoch, DDS, MAGD, at 512517-2826 or drzoch@yahoo.com.

Since 1996, our team of experts have provided successful transition services exclusively to dentists. Choice prides itself on its reputation for integrity, service and results for both traditional practice sales and commission-free sales to DSOs.

Questions Call us at 1-844-700-JOBS m psum