HOLIDAY ISSUE 2008 VOL. 41, NO. 2
Bulletin
THE PANKEY INSTITUTE
Contents Editor
Bruce Weny
Associate Editors
Jeff Smith Tara Meachum Seth Vruggink James Papp
Advertising Editor
Elaine Fleming Executive Secretary WMDDS 511-F Waters Building Grand Rapids, MI 49503 (616) 234-5605 efwmdds@aol.com
West Michigan District Dental Society Executive Board 2008-2009 President Doug Killian President-Elect Douglas Klein Vice President Seth Vruggink Secretary-Treasurer Ryan Lebster Editor Bruce Weny Immediate Past Amy De Young President Directors Larissa Bishop Tylor Wolf Christopher Morgan Area Representatives Kent County Brant Erbentraut Ionia-Montcalm Kathleen Ellsworth County Mecosta County Margaret Gingrich Ottawa County Thomas Phares MDA IV District Trustees
Connie Verhagen Norman Palm
Big Rapids Dental Study Club Officers, 2008-2009 President Erick Perroud Vice President Erick Perroud Secretary Christa Stern Treasurer Erick Perroud Holland-Zeeland Dental Society Officers, 2008-2009 President Ryan Lebster Treasurer Robert Ankerman Secretary Immediate Past President Ionia-Montcalm Dental Study Club Officers, 2008-2009 President-Secretary Lowell Swartz Vice PresidentKirkwood Faber Treasurer Kent County Dental Society Officers, 2008-2009 President Paul O’Grady Vice President Brant Erbentraut Secretary David Armbrecht Treasurer Lathe Miller West Michigan Dental Foundation Officers President Thomas Harmon Vice President Donald Vander Linde Secretary Matthew Gietzen Treasurer Carl Kruyswyk The Bulletin of the West Michigan Dental Society is published six times a year (Directory issue, Sept./Oct., Nov./Dec., Jan./Feb., Mar./Apr., and May/June). The opinions expressed in The Bulletin are not necessarily the opinions of the West Michigan District Dental Society. Contributions to The Bulletin are welcome and should be addressed to The Bulletin Editor, 255 Washington SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. Requests for purchase of advertising space should be directed to the Advertising Editor, Elaine Fleming, (616) 234-5605. The deadline is the 1st of the month prior to publication. © 2008-2009 West Michigan District Dental Society Bulletin
President’s Message ...................................................................................................... 2 Editor’s Thoughts......................................................................................................... 4 Charitable Dental Care Standardized Form ............................................................... 5 The Pankey Institute .................................................................................................... 6 Non-Performing Employee?........................................................................................ 8 Trustee Report ..............................................................................................................12 New Member Profile ....................................................................................................15 Program Review ...........................................................................................................16 Classified Ads................................................................................................................18 Advertiser Index ...........................................................................................................19 RDH Nitrous Update ...................................................................................................20 In Memoriam ...............................................................................................................20
About the Cover The Pankey Institute, a world-renowned post-graduate center for advanced dental education, located on the island of Key Biscayne, near Miami, FL.
Mission Statement The Bulletin is the newsletter of the WMDDS and its mission is to inform the membership of upcoming and recent events, state & local issues related to dentistry, and as a forum for its officers, representatives, and members to discuss appropriate topics of interest to the membership. Communication & Advertising Policy The Bulletin will publish submitted articles from members and others that relate to the practice of dentistry, small business, social, or political issues affecting dentists, or other subjects of interest to the membership. All published items are subject to space restrictions and the community standards of the WMDDS. The editors reserve the right to reject any article or advertisement deemed inappropriate and to edit submissions as they see fit. Submission & Publication Policy: Articles and advertisements must be submitted no later than the 1st of the month preceding publication date. The Bulletin has six publications: the directory issue, fall issue, holiday issue, winter issue, spring issue, and summer issue. Direct submissions or correspondences to: Dr. Bruce Weny • 255 Washington SE • Grand Rapids, MI 49503 Phone: 616.451.2336 FAX 616.222.1345 • Email: Bweny@aol.com Include “Newsletter” in the subject line.
WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | HOLIDAY ISSUE 2008
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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Reaching Our Goals By Dr. Doug Killian, WMDDS President
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t is that time of year again. The snow is flying, the holidays will have come and gone as fast as the summer sun. And here we are. Has anything changed from this day last year? If not, why not? Or if so, how did we make those changes a reality? Change can either be given to us or directed by us, and this is the classic time of year when we all start to think about how we can do things better. What do we have in mind for the coming year? Is it improvements on a personal level, financial, professional, or perhaps for the organizations to which we belong and support? The common component to successful change in any of these areas is a plan. Sounds typical. Most people do not have success surprise them, or even show up out of the blue; they plan for it on a daily basis. But not all plans are created equal. For example, how many times have you ever decided to get back in shape, start working out and look the way you did ten years ago only to find yourself dropping out a month later because you are now too busy or tired? I know I do that two or three times a year. I am realizing that my plan has not been well balanced to work among all the other commitments. I have good intentions all the time for self improvement, changes at the office, or accomplishing certain projects. And more than once I have heard at CE meetings about the importance of balance in our lives to achieve our goals. If you are too heavily weighted in one
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area or another, the plan always fizzles out. Like anything else, I had to prove it to believe it. What makes sense to me now is to include in the planning the help of someone with expertise to reach my goals. For instance, my partner and I have recently hired an advisor to help create and carry out a plan for the future of our practice. It began with a vision of where we see our practice this time next year and in the years to come. In order to achieve that, and maintain some reasonable order of balance in our lives, it made sense to hire an expert in that area as part of our planning. This approach is similar to using an investment advisor to handle your retirement account or a personal trainer to find out what motivates you. We must also keep in mind that as dentists and business owners, we are in a position to influence the success of others around us. The key to planning for your goals for next year is not to follow the same routine as in the past. Write down your goals, determine how each can be integrated into a balanced system for success, and utilize the experts when needed to stay on track. The very same ideas are true for our organization, WMDDS. We are of the mindset that without any planning, we will simply be paddling upstream. Times are certainly changing all around us with an unstable economy, the rising costs of practicing dentistry, and an undeniable access to care issue. These factors will force us to think outside the box and make suitable adjustments to ensure a predictable and successful outcome. We also look to our members, for ideas and suggestions by which we can become a better organization, and serve the people who depend on as part of their health care team. So think of your local dental society when you begin your goal planning for 2009. You may even consider joining in on a committee to carry out those ideas and goals. In the meantime, make a positive change in someone’s life this holiday season! Best Wishes this Christmas and into 2009!
WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | HOLIDAY ISSUE 2008
WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | HOLIDAY ISSUE 2008
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EDITOR’S THOUGHTS
MDA New Mission Statement By Dr. Bruce Weny, WMDDS Editor
T
he MDA, our state professional organization, has a new mission statement:
HELPING MEMBER DENTISTS SUCCEED Those words mean a lot. It is how we see ourselves and our organization to be. It is what we are to reach for. It is what we tell ourselves what is important. At the very least it is the role the MDA is to be in our lives. The MDA does a wonderful job in helping the member dentist. It works hard to put forth the concerns of our membership. There is, however, one area that is overlooked in this statement. What were we taught in dental school? What were we taught by the likes of Drs. Doerr, Shields, Kerr, Hayward, Ramfjord, Ash, Charbeneau, et al? I know, this goes back a while. These are the people who influenced my thinking at one of our schools. I am sure the list is as long at our sister
Health Intervention Services Health Intervention Services, or HIS, has opportunities for dentists who would like to do volunteer work in Grand Rapids. Call Dr. John Vander Kolk at 475-8446 or 780.0661. 4
dental school in Detroit. In fact, I am sure the seven dental schools within three hundred miles of the Michigan borders teach much the same. “Do no harm.” “The patients’ needs are first.” The teaching of the art and science of dentistry revolved around the patient. More than that, what our profession has done for the public as a whole in our fight for fluoridation is noteworthy and unselfish. Also, the work we do in helping people out of their dental problems at no cost is legion. At one time, we as a profession were rated to be the most reliable and caring of all the professionals. We were trusted more than anybody. Anybody! Will this Mission Statement promote that? Will this mission statement promote the higher calling? I wish the mission statement was more along the lines of:
WE ARE HERE TO HELP THE MEMBER DENTISTS BUILD THEIR CAREERS AND PROMOTE THE PUBLIC GOOD. The Michigan Dental Association Mission Statement and Values Statement will be considered by the 2009 House of Delegates in April.
Helping the Homeless: Project Homeless Connect Do you have four hours that you can set aside to help some homeless people with their dental needs? On Tuesday, January 27, 2009, Project Homeless Connect will be held at the Van Andel Arena from 10 am to 2 pm. To learn more about Project Homeless Connect and how you can help, call Dr. John Vander Kolk at 780.0661. WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | HOLIDAY ISSUE 2008
Charitable Dental Care Standardized Form Dentists are called upon, on a regular basis, to provide charitable dental care within their community. It has become very clear that Michigan legislators are interested in the charitable care given by dentists, especially through the Donated Dental Services and the Give Kids a Smile Program. Even with these organized programs, the tracking of charitable dental care, provided by dentists, remains difficult. After you have completed any charitable dental care, please complete and mail, fax, or e-mail this form to the West Michigan District Dental Society. This will assist the MDA with its lobbying efforts and help to insure that Michigan dentists are recognized for doing their part in addressing the oral health needs of those unable to pay for services. Do not report the value of any services that are already being reported to the Donated Dental Services program, as those will already be recorded. Feel free to report the amount of a charitable discount given as well, even if the patient did pay for part of the services. Your participation will be very beneficial towards further enhancing our image as a profession, and is greatly appreciated. Patient Age Local Dental Society
Minor (0-18); Adult (19-64) Senior (65+)
ADA Procedure Code
$ Value of Charitable Treatment
Please return form to: West Michigan District Dental Society 161 Ottawa Avenue NW Suite 511-F Grand Rapids MI 49503 Or by FAX to 616.454.6549 WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | HOLIDAY ISSUE 2008
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T H E PA N K E Y I N S T I T U T E
The Pankey Institute By Dr. James L. Lockwood
1. What is The Pankey Institute? The Pankey Institute is a world-renowned post-graduate center for advanced dental education. It is non-profit, and named in honor of Dr. L D. Pankey, one of our professions great visionaries. Founded in 1970 in south Florida, The Pankey Institute is located on the island of Key Biscayne, near Miami. 2. What does it teach? The Pankey Institute teaches dentists how to provide individualized, comprehensive dentistry in a caring and thorough manner. The curriculum centers around four “Essentials” courses that are taken in sequence. Each course lasts a few days and includes clinical, behavioral, and financial material. Beyond these “Essentials” are other courses focusing on cosmetics, teamwork skills, finances, and more. A central theme in all courses is incorporating new knowledge into a smoothrunning practice while maintaining a balance in one’s life. a. Cross of life. Dr. Pankey’s cross of life is his interpretation of Aristotle’s thoughts on the nature of happiness. Aristotle described happiness as fulfillment derived from a full, balanced life, and not mere pleasure from a brief act or event. Aristotle stated that a fulfilling life involves balancing work, play, love, and introspection. Decades ago Dr. Pankey recognized that our work is tremendously demanding and can be all-consuming, especially to those with workaholic tendencies. He adapted Aristotle’s teachings on the benefits of a balanced life to the practice of dentistry, and there are several interesting applications of Aristotle’s concepts that our dentist-participants find useful. For example, I have learned the value of keeping a deliberate work schedule and taking appropriate time off from work for the many other important parts of my life.
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b. Other things. Learning occurs on two levels at The Pankey Institute. One is through the formal curricula, and the other is a by-product of the camaraderie that occurs among the dentist-participants and faculty in the Pankey condominiums. These are places where several dentists stay while at the Institute. Many discussions after hours lead to new insights. Also, listening skills are emphasized. We teach our dentist-participants that we have two ears and one mouth for a reason, and that much can be learned from our patients if we will simply take the time to really listen to them. In addition, we celebrate the gift of an individualized lifetime treatment plan based on a comprehensive examination. This, perhaps more than anything else we do, is acknowledged by our patients with gratitude. Also, a detailed understanding of physiologic occlusion and the practical application of equilibration skills are taught. Our graduates leave knowing how and when to equilibrate teeth. In addition, the sanctity of the doctor-patient relationship is honored. We help our graduates learn to practice in a manner that avoids interference from third parties. Lastly, great emphasis is placed on treatment planning and learning to render dental care in well-planned steps over time. This helps make optimal care affordable by adjusting the timetable to work with patient’s budgets. 3. Why did I go there? Although I am grateful for a fine education at dental school, I knew then that a major commitment at a post-graduate institute was necessary to potentiate myself professionally and help me to bring my best skills to my patients. The reputation of The Pankey Institute was preeminent and several firsthand recommendations confirmed this. Also, I viewed each continuing education course as a piece of a puzzle, and I thought it would be nice to ultimately have all of the pieces fit together and create a whole that was greater than the sum of its parts. Finally, The Pankey Institute has always stood for integrity, and I was thrilled to be learning how to help people receive the best care possible in an ethical manner. I began studying there in 1994. 4. How did it personally affect you? My experiences at The Pankey Institute have been the greatest source of personal and professional growth and development WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | HOLIDAY ISSUE 2008
T H E PA N K E Y I N S T I T U T E
in my life. I never imagined that I would enjoy listening more that talking. I am able to achieve treatment outcomes with my hands that I never thought possible. My occlusal training enables me to help people who feel hopeless and are in despair. Our staff meetings are inspired and rewarding, and our teamwork skills bring me great pride. The women I work with are very dedicated and special people. We have cultivated a values-based practice where patients appreciate their oral health and the benefits of prevention. 5. How is Pankey different from other dental institutes? There are several fine dental continuing education institutes in this country. Many things are unique to The Pankey Institute. First, it is the original institute of its type. Second, it was started on behalf of Dr. Pankey by a group of grateful dentists, and thus was born of the spirit of giving. Third, its tenure brings with it access to a network of amazingly talented and generous colleagues. Fourth, it offers the opportunity to learn on two levels, the curricula and the condominiums. Fifth, its scope is broad, incorporating knowledge in the areas of clinical, laboratory, philosophical, financial, leadership, and teamwork training.
my responsibility is to facilitate growth and development in our dentist-participants and their team members. Also, I enjoy mentoring other Michigan dentists who have begun the Pankey journey. This is a great way for area dentist-participants to stay connected with The Institute between courses and continue their development. 7. How does it affect your outlook on dentistry? I get up in the morning and feel so pleased that I have this job, which probably makes me strange, but also fortunate. We should all feel proud to be part of a medical profession that has progressed so much over the years, to the point where prevention is easy and effective, and artistic outcomes are dramatic and durable. We get to work autonomously and enjoy great trust and gratitude from those we serve. Even though the mass media paint a bleak picture of world events, the reality is that we are making a difference in peoples lives every day, one person at a time. Our futures in this profession are whatever we want them to be, and I attribute my possible outlook on dentistry to the training I received, and now am privileged to offer, at The Pankey Institute.
6. What do you teach there? Teaching at The Pankey Institute is performed by Resident Faculty, Visiting Faculty, and Guest Presenters. In 1999 I was fortunate to be asked to join the Visiting Faculty at The Pankey Institute. I am able to give about one week per year of my time for this, and I find it extremely rewarding. Someone said that when one teaches, two learn, and I have found this to be correct. My job as Visiting Faculty is to bring real-world applicability and individualization of the Pankey Principles to our dentist-participants. I have helped teach several courses ranging from teamwork skills where dentists bring the entire teams, to equilibration, to perio/prostho concerns. Ultimately, WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | HOLIDAY ISSUE 2008
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HUMAN RESOURCES NEWS
Non-Performing Employee? By J. Devereaux Butler, Ph.D., Managing Partner, ClearTalent, LLC • System Problems: Poor employee behavior may be a symptom of something else. Are office expectations clear? Does the employee know how they’re doing? Do they have the tools to achieve expectations? Maybe the employee is just not in the right role; a change of duties could turn everything around.
Dear Org Doctor: I have an employee who is a “bad apple” — her performance isn’t up to standards and it’s starting to cause problems with my other staff members. What should I do? — At “Not Trained for This” in Ottawa County
Dear “Not Trained for This”: An employee with a performance problem infects the entire team and should be dealt with immediately. While others may appear to tolerate the lack of performance, they are secretly stewing and looking for you to do something about it. Your credibility is on the line here. Try this approach. First, identify the problem and explore underlying causes. Why do this instead of immediately starting dismissal procedures? There are several reasons: • Team Morale: Each employee is watching your interactions with the problem employee and is seeing themselves — “that could be me.” You don’t want your team operating under the assumption that the axe will fall at the first sign of a mistake. Fear will stifle staff initiative and your employees will become compliant rather than engaged. • The Bottom Line: Believe it or not, rehabilitating an existing problem employee is cheaper than recruiting, hiring, and training a replacement employee. (I’m addressing the runof-the-mill performance problems. Serious problems such as stealing or diverting drugs need immediate and severe action.) Additionally, firing an employee prematurely, even for legitimate reasons, may expose you to some hefty legal fees. Check with your lawyer if the employee needs to be shown the door.
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Second, if finding the problem is indeed with the employee and not the organization, use this five-step process when confronting the employee: 1. Describe the employee’s specific behavior problems. Talk about the problem behaviors, not the employee’s poor attitude or effort. Don’t say, “You have a poor attitude.” Instead, list specific behaviors that describe the poor attitude. Describe the results or consequences of the problem behavior. 2. Describe the expected standard of employee performance. Be specific and focus this discussion on the behavior you expect. 3. Determine and discuss the cause of the performance concerns. Does the employee lack training, skills, knowledge? Is there a lack of motivation or incentive? Are there external factors involved (family or financial)? Are there factors beyond the employee’s control affecting performance? No matter what you find, stick to your message of expectations. The employee must find a way to meet the expectations. 4. Ask the employee for solutions. What could the employee do to improve the situation? People support what they create — not what you create. 5. Agree upon a solution and set specific expectations. Identify who will do what by when and follow up. If you don’t follow up as agreed, the problem will return and you will become the performance problem. This approach lets all employees know that others care about their work and their role is important to the success of the practice. Remember, it’s critical to resolve performance issues early, before they become more deeply ingrained and harder to eliminate. The “OrgDoctor” is written by ClearTalent, an HR company helping organizations to hire, measure, align, and develop employees for business results. You can contact ClearTalent at getclear@getcleartalent.com.
WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | HOLIDAY ISSUE 2008
WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | HOLIDAY ISSUE 2008
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Presents
EXCELLING AT YOUR CAREER WITHOUT UNDERMINING YOUR HEALTH Presented by Zonya Foco, RD, CHFI, CSP | Friday, January 16, 2009 Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park | 8:00am to 4:00pm | 7 CEU’s Zonya Foco, America’s Nutrition Leader, is on a mission to win the war on obesity, type-2 diabetes, and heart disease. A master of inspiration, motivation, and visual humor; Zonya reaches millions of people each year with a common-sense approach to healthy eating through her TV show, “Zonya’s Health Bites,” best-selling cookbook, Lickety-Split Meals for Heath-Conscious People on the Go! and national speaking calendar. Zonya’s boundless energy inspires audiences across North America to stop dieting and start living the healthy life they deserve. Zonya received her bachelor’s degree from Eastern Michigan University and is the only Registered Dietitian (RD) and Certified Health and Fitness Instructor (CHFI) in the country to have earned the prestigious Certified Speaking Professional (CSP) designation. As a nationally-recognized expert on nutrition and wellness, Zonya has partnered with Health Alliance Plan (HAP) of Michigan to develop and present HAP’s award-winning Weight Wise program, launched in 2004.
For additional information and registration, call Elaine Fleming at 616.234.5605.
West Michigan District Dental Society is an ADA CERP Recognized Provider.
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS WHO HAVE HELPED TO MAKE THESE PROGRAMS AVAILABLE TO US Platinum Sponsors:
Supporting Sponsor:
Registration Form Excelling at Your Career Without Undermining Your Health Zonya Foco, RD, CHFI, CSP | January 16, 2009 | Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park NAME
ADDRESS
ADDITIONAL REGISTRANT(S) AT THIS ADDRESS
per MDA-member dentist – $200 per staff – $100 per non-member dentist – $400 TOTAL: Make checks payable to: West Michigan District Dental Society. Remit to: Elaine Fleming | c/o WMDDS | 161 Ottawa NW | Suite 511-F, Waters Building | Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503 | Questions? Call 616.234.5605.
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WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | HOLIDAY ISSUE 2008
MARK YOUR CALENDAR West Michigan Dental Foundation Annual Golf Outing FRIDAY, June 5, 2009 Returning to beautiful Egypt Valley Country Club Registration begins at 10:30 am Lunch 11:30 am • Golf 12:30 pm $200 per golfer Fee includes golf, lunch, on-course beverages, and dinner
WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | HOLIDAY ISSUE 2008
Skilled human resources experts helping your practice hire, align, measure, develop and retain the right employees.
For more information, contact getclear@getcleartalent.com or call 616.915.9880
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TRUSTEE REPORT
Highlights of 2008 ADA House of Delegates Actions By Dr. Norm Palm, MDA Trustee
H
ello and best regards! My report will summarize the activities of the 2008 ADA House of Delegates. It was a privilege to serve as a delegate from our Ninth district, which is composed of delegates from Wisconsin and Michigan. The ADA House always presents lively discussion on the issues before it and this year was no exception. There were more than eighty resolutions and reports before the House. I know my summary will appear sketchy, but you are always welcome to contact me if you would like more detailed information at stsorminnorman@msn.com. I hope you can get the flavor of how much transpires at every ADA House on your behalf: • No dues increase, dues staying at $498. This House was very concerned about the overall economy and its impact on member dentists. • Budget sent back to Trustees and reduced to no deficit. The original budget from the ADA Board of Trustees included a deficit of approximately $2,000,000 out of a total budget approaching $115,000,000. This means spending would dip into reserves. However, due to market conditions, the ADA’s reserves had already dipped from about 47% of spending to approximately 38% of budget for 2009. The House had no stomach for budgeted deficits this year. • Targeted reserves at 50% of annual operating budget. Each House seems to wrestle with how much money the ADA should hold in reserves as a percent of operations and how to get there. This year was no different, and the move was to the more conservative side. • HOD materials in electronic format by 2012. The desire to go electronic will be a technical challenge. There are about 460 delegates and nearly the same number of alternates.
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• Offer resolution work sheets in electronic format by 2010. New resolutions can be submitted right up until the start of the opening session of the House. The House will want to prevent any restriction on the flow of new resolutions as it goes electronic. • Refused to alter the pathway of entering new business to prevent log-jamming of new resolutions just before House’s first meeting. Over the years there have been various attempts to limit the flow of resolutions and these efforts never succeed. • Refused to link two-thirds majority to budget items in excess of $2,000,000 financial impact. A bad idea as a vocal minority would have de facto control of an issue’s outcome. • Authorized the development of a Health Literacy Strategic Plan. An effort to increase the public’s knowledge of oral health and its importance, and present the materials in a manner that reflects the diversity of patient communities. Say Access. • Modified the duties of the Council on Access, Prevention, and Interprofessional Relations (CAPIR)-enhance community oral health initiatives. Say Access again. • Instructed CAPIR to develop an action plan of Access to Care. What works to improve Access to Care? This issue is not going away as I’ve said before. • Approved goals and objectives for state workers’ compensation programs. Workers’ comp coverage needs more transparency for the patient and provider. • ADA continues to voice concern about the impacts of dental tourism. U.S. patients seeking care by foreign providers is growing and brings up quality of care issues as well as continuity of care. • Agreed to participate in a Center for Medicaid and Medicare (CMS) Dental Quality Alliance. Although this may be code speak for pay for performance, we need to be at the table or organized dentistry could wind up on the menu. • Defeated a proposal to include a dental exam in health care policies. The House avoids doing anything that could infringe on fee for service dental care. • Referred to the Council on Dental Benefits a proposal to study the effect of managed care on the doctor-patient relationship. This was originally a larger, more expensive study that got reduced, but remained at the request of governWEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | HOLIDAY ISSUE 2008
TRUSTEE REPORT
• •
•
•
mental affairs as info is needed to cope with anticipated universal health care initiatives from Congress. Referred to Council on Dental Benefits a proposal for coding “failed appointment.” Adopted a proposal guiding how the overhead of a dental practice is stated. Costs of dental practices and medical practices are not comparable, but legislators seem to ignore this fact with reimbursement determination. Proposed to the Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations to modify or replace the current national board exam to validate it for quantitative scoring. Postgraduate training programs need more information in order to compare applicant student performance as so much of dental school grading is now on a pass-fail basis. Formed an oversight committee to implement the Council on Dental Accreditation (CODA) task force report changes. This completes a multi-year review of CODA and
WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | HOLIDAY ISSUE 2008
its direction after a number of concerns arose starting with the deployment of “dental hygiene diagnosis” standards several years ago. • Approved financial support for the CDHC pilot program through 2013, committing up to $5,000,000 for the project’s completion and outside evaluation. This is the third House to affirm its support for the CDHC pilot study. Detroit remains a site for the pilot program. • Instructed the ADA to release CDHC curriculum modules to constituent state associations for possible integration into existing expanded dental assisting programs. A number of states want the curriculum now to prevent the development of a mid level provider. • Endorsed a proposal calling on state and local societies to implement a four-year recent graduate reduced dues program. One of several initiatives over the last several years to draw younger members.
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TRUSTEE REPORT
• Authorized funding to provide Committee on the New Dentist to serve as ex officio members of ADA councils. The importance of the younger dentist in the future of the ADA. • Modified student block grant program funding. Helps states without dental schools in drawing recent grads. • Referred back to Council on Membership a proposal for a membership category for disabled dentists. Recent Houses have not liked continuing to expand the number of membership categories. • Approved a resolution requesting increased federal funding for GPR’s and pediatric dental residency programs. • Accepted the report on Universal Care/Universal Coverage 2007-2008 Task Force. A very detailed report on how dentistry may be impacted if we are included in any plans for universal health care. • Referred back to Council on Public Affairs a Patient Rights and Responsibilities Statement. Let’s not create unintended results and new avenues for litigation. • Modified the preamble to the Principles of Ethics and Code of Professional Conduct to include the dental school education process. Ethical concerns abound in dental school education. • Defeated a statement on the inherent commitment and duty-bound obligation of dentists to protect the well being of the public in all dental care related matters. • Adopted policy on health care reform and the inclusion of oral health care in any health care reform. Sets important tenets on oral health by the ADA for public policy makers. • Adopted a proposal calling for Medicaid provider numbering by facility than by practitioner. • Strengthened the language protecting the licensing of ADA intellectual property. This became a very important matter internally in the ADA this year. • Authorized a request for a report detailing the compliance with the settlement agreement regarding the lawsuit challenging the DHAT in Alaska. • Adopted a position statement on mid-level providers: “The ADA’s position on any proposed new member of the dental team shall be based upon a determination of need, sufficient education and training, supervision by the dentist, and a scope of practice that ensures the protection of the public’s health.”
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• Adopted ADA Support for Constituent Societies in Dealing with Mid-Level Provider Proposals. Several states are dealing with advanced dental hygiene proposals, not just Minnesota. At this ADA meeting, Ray Gist, our ninth district ADA trustee, announced he is a candidate for president elect in 2009. Ray is someone we can all support. His experience, knowledge and affable demeanor make him an excellent choice for higher leadership in the ADA. Please look at him as your candidate. There will be more information on his campaign in the MDA Journal. That’s my report … looks like a lot of “stuff,” I know. But please understand this is the “stuff ” that affects your profession, your practice, and your patients. Please consider these issues important in these terms and no other. Thanks for making my job worthwhile by staying current with what is happening on the inside of dentistry. Norm Palm stsorminnorman@msn.com
WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | HOLIDAY ISSUE 2008
NEW MEMBER PROFILE
Elizabeth Christopherson Elizabeth Christopherson grew up in East Grand Rapids with her parents (her father is Dr. Charles Caldwell), two sisters, and a brother. Her parents instilled in her a strong sense of community by teaching her to volunteer from childhood. Elizabeth mentors a senior student at Ottawa Hills High School through the program STRIVE; she volunteers at Baxter Community Center; she works with the Junior Guild at Mary Free Bed hospital to coordinate dinners for patients and families, makes blankets for the new pediatric patients admitted, and arranges pet therapy for the patients since they don’t get to see their own pets during their stay. Elizabeth thinks dentists have always done a nice job with volunteering. She has done three dental mission trips with her dad to Guatemala, where they traveled with other physician assistants and medical doctors. They toured through rural villages in the mountains and performed general dental services, water testing, and gave oral hygiene instructions through the organization Heds Up Los Ninos.
Elizabeth completed her undergraduate work at Miami University in Ohio. After taking a year off to live in Colorado with her sister, she moved back to Michigan to attend the University of Michigan Dental School where she continued on with the orthodontic residency program and earned her masters degree in 2007. After graduating, Elizabeth returned to East Grand Rapids. “By returning to my hometown, I have been able to join a wonderful community – both personally and professionally – and it has allowed me to practice with an excellent orthodontist, mentor, and dad.” Their main office is on Burton in Grand Rapids with a satellite office in Hastings. They recently opened their third office on Wealthy in Gas Light Village, which allows kids to ride bikes and walk from school. When asked what Elizabeth enjoys most about the dental field she replied, “Dentistry as a whole – and for me orthodontics – is fascinating in that growth and development, function, and facial esthetics factor into each patient’s individual treatment plan. The challenge of balancing these are rewarding for myself and the patient as they result in healthy and beautiful smiles. I also love orthodontics because the frequency of visits throughout treatment allows me to develop wonderful relationships with my patients.” When Elizabeth isn’t at the office, she enjoys reading, cooking, jogging, and skiing.
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4485 Plainfield NE Grand Rapids, MI 49525 616 361 7300
WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | HOLIDAY ISSUE 2008
Hours: M–F 9:30am – 6pm Sat. 10am – 4pm
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PROGRAM REVIEW
The Digital Patient Consultation: The Basics By Dr. Aric Smith and Dr. Bruce Weny
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atients just need a way to see our clinical skill.” That was the whole premise of the CE course sponsored by the West Michigan District Dental Society on Friday, October 24, 2008. Dr. Gregory M. Lutke felt that once the technical skills are learned, they pay practicetransforming results forever. Cameras today are vastly different from those of ten years ago. The cameras you buy are not color accurate, but there is a way to fix this. There are five dimensions of image quality that have to be mastered. 1. Exposure, how to capture all dental images with perfect exposure control using histograms. 2. Tonal Range, how to modify images to full tonal range – the way the eye actually sees the subject. 3. Color, correct in both saturation and tint. This is completely managed by a “custom white balance card.” 4. Sharpness, how to correct image softness (capture softness) to appear crisp, as our eyes sees the subject. 5. Depth of field, how to capture images with a huge depth of field, completely controlled by lens f/stop. There are two formats of pictures – “jpg” pictures, and “raw” pictures. For the best picture, set the camera on “raw” for archival quality. You need to use Adobe Photoshop CS4. It costs about $600, but can do both jpg and raw formats. This will give spectacular image quality. This is what is required for AACD Accreditation. Two brands of cameras work well in dentistry. In the under $1,000 dollar level are the Nikon D-60 with a dental lens, or the Canon Rebel XS1 with the 770 body. In the over $1,000 range is the Nikon D-90. The Canon 50D comes in at $1,400. You will need the 100mm macro lens. At $1,600 is the Nikon D300. These are some of the best cameras for our purposes. The Canon is better for molar shots. One thing to remember is that shutter speeds are very low in dentistry. One needs to use Nikon’s vibration reduction lenses or a pole tripod. “SLR” (single lens reflex camera) means you see what is coming through the lens. The hardware requirements are: • A computer with a “Core 2” Duo Processor • 2 GB of RAM (4 GB is better) • 160 GB hard drive (7200 RPM’s), faster is better
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• A 20 inch digital slat panel monitor – 1650x1024 – the higher the number the better. • 128 MB video card (not on-board video) • DVI connection to the monitor, which is white in color. The old VGR blue connection is an analog setup and it will flicker. • The monitor should have 1.7 Mega Pixels. Power Point is the software that is required, which will take any image and make it fit the monitor screen. The printer can be of two types. The inexpensive printers use “dye ink,” which will fade over time. An Epson 1400 is a very good printer and is an example of this for about $240. A more expensive printer like the Epson R2880 at about $630 uses pigment ink, which does not fade. It is important to use Epson ink and paper with the Epson R2880. If you have an expensive printer, have the printer control the color. If you have an inexpensive printer, have the computer control the color. The number one problem in photography is exposure. It is better to underexpose (too dark) than to overexpose (too light). The camera or Adobe Photoshop will have what is called a “histogram.” A histogram plots the number of light
Dr. Patrick O’Brien listens to Dr. Gregory Lutke. WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | HOLIDAY ISSUE 2008
PROGRAM REVIEW
printers to assure the output colors are consistent with the captured image. Make sure quality printer paper and the appropriate settings are applied to the printer for the best image detail. As a final note, Dr. Lutke encouraged the audience to incorporate a digital consultation into our practices. He has found alternating before and after digital images are powerful in motivating the patient toward treatment. Remain truthful to your abilities and expected outcomes for the patient when communicating the future-result images. As patients are generally focused on the results of treatment, Dr. Lutke advised the audience to have a disclaimer on any future result images to say, “Digital art of potential ‘after smile.’ Actual dentistry will differ.” Dr. Dan Lewis seeks advice from Dr. Lutke.
to dark pixels representing the tonal range in our image. It is the fingerprint of an image; much like a snowflake, no two histograms are exactly the same. Adjust the histogram so that you leave 15% on the right side and no tail on the left side. To sharpen pictures or digital x-rays, go to the eyedropper tool and use on the screen. Using a higher f/stop setting will maximize the depth of field. If you want to take all the color out of a picture select the “desaturate” tool. It is important when capturing, viewing, and printing images to have consistent colors. For the camera there is a card (rawworkflow.com/whibal/) that you take a picture of to adjust the white balance (true color) in your camera. It costs about $60. Once set, the camera will always remember this setting for every image taken. The ISO setting should be set at 100 to 200. There are color check cards for the computer screen from X-Rite called “color rendition charts” (rawworkflow.com/color-checkers/) used for the raw file custom settings for different cameras. Adobe programs allow you to create specific color profiles for each camera. The setting can then be applied to multiple images in a simple command. The computer monitor can be balanced through a monitor profile (ICC) available from the manufacturer’s software or website. The i1Display2 device optically scans your monitor and develops a custom profile to display captured images with the same color. Furthermore, ICC profiles can be applied to WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | HOLIDAY ISSUE 2008
Dr. Scott Pirochta holding his camera during Dr. Lutke’s presentation.
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CLASSIFIED ADS
The classified ad rate is $10.00 up to and including 30 words; additional words 15¢ each. Space permitting, WMDDS members may place ads free of charge as a membership service. Ads should be submitted in writing and sent with payment to Elaine Fleming, WMDDS, 511-F Waters Building, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. Telephone numbers and hyphenations count as two words, abbreviations count as one word. Ads received after the first of the month prior to publication may appear in the following issue.
Grand Rapids – Our very busy, well established general practice has an immediate opening for a full- or parttime dentist. Our stand-alone facility has eight operatories and a fully staffed denture laboratory. This is an excellent opportunity to practice in a diversified and growing practice. Salary based on percentage of production for an experienced, self-motivated individual. 150k to 200K annually. Please email: grandvalleydental@sbcglobal.net or call Pam at 616.245.2767. Storage Space for Lease – Safe, secure, 24/7 access. Ideal for records, models, or just stuff you need to store. Located in the basement at 1151 East Paris Ave. Contact Dr. Sam Bander at 616.949.5980 or drsam@sbcglobal.net for more information. Dental Practice For Sale – Jenison, Michigan. Established and growing dental practice on major Jenison traffic route. Great income potential. Call for details 616.245.2767 or cell 616.485.1348. Half of Building (2,424 Square Feet) for Lease. Other half is a full-service dental laboratory. Two year old building, excellent for a dental practice. Great location in Kentwood on the corner of Breton and 32nd Street. If interested please call 447.0190. Established Dentist with an Existing Office in Grand Rapids Wants to Buy – in or partner with another dentist. Open to all options. Please contact P.O. Box 141661, Grand Rapids, MI, 49514-1661.
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Grandville: 2000+ sq. ft. office space available for lease in exclusive professional office building. Other tenants include endodontist, family dentist, pediatric dentist, oral surgeon and orthodontist. Building partnership buy-in also possible as investment. Call 616.531.6377 or 616.531.1260. Office Space for Lease – Great location! 2426 Burton St. SE, 915 sq. ft., 3 operatories, lab, private office, reception, business office, basement. Contact Dr. Sam Bander at 616.949.5980 or email at drsam@sbcglobal.net Space for Lease – Holland (great north side neighborhood location). Previous tenant was a family practice dentist. High visibility sign available. Building interior is ready for equipment installation. Three ops and small lab. Owner is willing to adapt building to needs. Call 616.245.9098 or 800.669.0717. Kentwood, Muskegon, Fowlerville – We have three practices for sale. These opportunities are excellent starters and satellite offices. Kentwood and Fowlerville have buildings also for purchase. Starting gross of $470,000 to $600,000. Financing and working capital available. Contact Dr. Jim David, Henry Schein PPT Sales at 586.530.0800 or daviddental@comcast.net. For Sale – 1998 Gendex GX-Pan, $4500. Also available: 1970 Moss Lateral Ceph. Make offer. Call 538.5920 Mon.–Thurs.
Dental Equipment Sale – Five operatories of dental equipment for sale. 5 Dental Ez chairs, 4 Pelton Crane Track lights, one chair mounted light, 3 Forest over the patient dental units, 2 assistant dental carts, 5 Telecam Intra Oral Cameras & 5 wall mounted Mitsubishi TV’s, photo printer, 5 assistant stools, 5 operator stools, 2 SS White x-ray machines, 2 rear delivery units, all other operatory cabinetry, vacuum pump, compressor, reception room furniture, 5 business office chairs, doctors office and business office desk/bookshelf cabinetry, conference table, 2 large patient records file cabinets, and more! Call 887.7389. West Michigan: Associate Wanted with Transition to Partner – Very busy, modern practice with eleven operatories and three full-time hygienists, seeking ambitious dentist who is committed to serving the general dentistry needs of our surrounding rural community. Our practice is located in an attractive lakeside village with a municipal airport. We are looking for a general dentist with some experience to work 2–3 days a week to start. Transition to 4–5 days per week as senior partner shifts towards retirement. Contact draper@pathwaynet.com or wjwinget@hotmail.com with resumé and contact information. Associate/Partnership – Great opportunity for a full / part time general dentist. Profitable, fee for service office. This is a well established family practice. Excellent location in Spring Lake/ Grand Haven area. Call 616.842.1562 or e-mail dmirwin@chartermi.net.
WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | HOLIDAY ISSUE 2008
CLASSIFIED ADS
Would Like to Find in 2008 – A retiring dentist or a partner in the Grand Rapids area. I have had lots of experience. Please call Dr. Doug Martin 616-975-0464. For Lease – Desirable SE Grand Rapids location. Some shared space (reception room, lab, etc.) with two other general dentists. Great opportunity for general, specialty, or start-up. Excellent terms. Call 616.949.8990. Dental Office Suite/Three Operatories for Lease – Desirable SE Grand Rapids location. Some shared space (reception room, lab, etc.) with two other general dentists. Great opportunity for general, specialty, or start-up. Excellent terms. Call 616.949.8990. General Dentist – An excellent opportunity to join a progressive, fast-pace, well-established, practice in Grant, Michigan. Immediate opening for full-time or part-time general dentist (new grads welcome). Compensation commensurate with experience. Send resume and letter of interest to: Human Resources, Baldwin Family Health Care, Inc., 1615 Michigan Avenue, Baldwin MI 49304, whelminiak@familyhealthcare.org, or FAX 231.745.3690. For Lease – 1,500 sq. ft. (approx.) dental office suite with three operatories in newer (5-year-old) building. Beautiful water views. Located on Forest Hill Avenue south of Burton. Convenient, highly visible location. For more information, please call Janie at 616.942.3343. Dental Practices Wanted to Buy – Two dentists separately looking for a practice to buy in the Grand Rapids area. Contact Greg McGlaun of Proveer at 616.425.5523 or gmcglaun@proveerpm.com.
Dental Office for Lease – Sparta, MI. 2,000 sq ft with $75,000 improvements, includes two X-ray machines, vacuum extraction, cabinetry, laboratory. $1795.00/mo, plus utilities. Traffic flow/14,000 daily. 616.874.4192. Dental Vacuum Pump – 2 Hp Matrix Model Max-2000. Excellent condition. Recently appraised at $1200. Will take $800 or best offer. Contact Chase Klinesteker at 949-8665 or ckspoonpl1@aol.com. General Dentist – Family Health Care, a federally qualified health center, has an excellent opportunity to join a progressive, fast-pace, well-established practice in northwest Michigan. Immediate openings in our Grant and White Cloud offices for full-time or part-time general dentist (new grads welcome). Compensation commensurate with experience. Send CV and letter of interest to: Human Resources, Baldwin Family Health Care, Inc., 1615 Michigan Avenue, Baldwin MI 49304. Email: whelminiak@familyhealthcare.org. FAX: 231.745.3690. Spielmaker Accounting, Inc. – Specializing in medical practice accounting. Individually owned and operated by Holly Oudhoff, in practice over 20 years. Call today @ 616.897.1257 or 616.885.0432. References available on request. RDH/RDA – Dental professional with over 5 years experience seeking fulltime, part-time or subbing opportunities where I will be able to utilize my professional experience with patients. Please contact me at 616.262.8719.
WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | HOLIDAY ISSUE 2008
ADVERTISER INDEX
The Bulletin wishes to thank our valued advertisers who support organized dentistry by helping to defray the cost of printing and mailing. Advertising in the Bulletin is seen by over 90% of the dentists in the West Michigan District. This includes five of the fastest growing counties in the state: Kent, Ottawa, Ionia, Montcalm and Mecosta. For information on advertising rates, call Elaine Fleming, WMDDS Executive Secretary at 234-5605. Target your Market – advertise in the Bulletin!
Cleartalent .........................................11
CPR Collections, Inc.........................11
Davis Dental Laboratory................inside front cover
Founders Bank & Trust.....................13
Henry Schein ............inside back cover
MDA IFG........................................... 3
National City Bank ........................outside back cover
Professional Solutions....................... 9
Scrubs for Success .............................15
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N2O/RDH
RDH Nitrous Update
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Filing for the nitrous oxide certification is actually optional, but the Dept. of Community Health, Bureau of Health Professions, encourages hygienists to have it, so they do not have to retain documentation of the three criteria in the office at all times. Go to: www.michigan.gov/healthlicense. See “Dentistry” button on left side of page.
egarding the “Nitrous Oxide” article in the Fall 2008 WMDDS Bulletin, it is prudent to clear up some misunderstandings. HB4675 enabled hygienists to become certified in the administration of nitrous oxide. The hygienist must have completed the coursework, taken the NERB exam, and hold current certification in CPR before the dentist can delegate to the hygienist the administration of nitrous oxide under the direct supervision of the dentist. The Dentistry Rules define “Direct Supervision” as requiring the dentist to be physically present in the time the procedures are being performed. The RDH with this certification cannot administer nitrous oxide unless the dentist is in the office, but the law does not say the DDS has to be in the operatory. The RDH without a nitrous oxide certification can monitor a patient if the dentist has delegated that task to the RDH. However, the RDH must still meet the three criteria of training, exam, and CPR certification to administer nitrous oxide.
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Rae Ramsdell, Director, Licensing Division Dept. of Community Health, Bureau of Health Professions JoAnne Hodder, RDH, BS, Member Michigan Board of Dentistry
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The West Michigan District Dental Society was saddened by the passing of our colleague: Dr. Julius Franks Jr., November 26, 2008 Those wishing to make a memorial donation to the West Michigan Dental Foundation in memory of Dr. Franks should contact Elaine Fleming at the WMDDS office at 616.234.5605, or checks may be sent made payable to: West Michigan Dental Foundation 161 Ottawa Avenue NW, Suite 511-F Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503
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WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | HOLIDAY ISSUE 2008
WEST MICHIGAN DENTAL SOCIETY 511-F Waters Building Grand Rapids, MI 49503
PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID GRAND RAPIDS, MI PERMIT # 657