Lingual Groove Fall Edition 2023

Month Year

Issue Number

The Solitaire Traveler

LINGUAL GROOVE

Adventuring in Nature Supporting text for the cover story goes here

Exploring Fort LeBurg

FALL 2023

TABLE of contents

Editors’ Notes

03

From ASDA Presidents

04

Dean’s Message

05

Bittersweet Goodbyes

07

National Leadership Conference 2023

11

Advocacy in Dentistry

15

Health and Wellness

16

Diversity in Dentistry

18

Life in Arizona

19

Our Pets

22

Being a Business Owner

23

AI in Dentistry

24

Hobbies and Hand Skills

27

Oral Pathology

28

Pontics & Politics

29

Mission Trip Diaries

30

Professor Highlight

31

Botox and Special Care Dentistry

32

Fall 2023 Lingual Groove @asdohasda

WRITE FOR US!

asdohasda@atsu.edu facebook.com/asdohasda asdohasda.com

ASDA Executive Committee Kimia Firoozi, Co-President Hannah Lee, Co-President Payal Patel, Vice President Lance Attiq, Treasurer Samira Sadoughi, Secretary

Want to get involved with Lingual Groove or want to be featured in our Spring 2024 Edition? Contact asdohasda@atsu.edu for more information!

Lingual Groove Co Editors-in-Chief Shaheryar Hasan Ushna Ahmad

Contributing Faculty Dr. Carleigh Canterbury Dr. Wayne Cottam Dr. Mai-Ly Duong Dr. Ahmed Mahrous Dr. Tannaz Malekzadeh Dr. Austin Shackelford Dr. Robert Trombly

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Welcome Readers!

We are so excited to introduce our Fall 2023 Lingual Groove Edition! It has been a great opportunity getting this ready for you all and hope you can all enjoy the highlights from our amazing students and faculty. This magazine serves to provide a personal touch from out writers outside the typical “drill and fill”. This showcases diversity and the passion our students, faculty and staff aim to serve at ASDOH. We appreciate the support and help from our fellow ASDA Executive Board and Abe! This will be an exciting read and hope that you all get to enjoy the articles, stories and personal experiences that are shared. This aims to highlight the hard work and effort from all of our writers.

My favorite part of this publication was collaborating with our innovative faculty who were able to share topics of interest, advice and best practice guidelines they abide by. I hope that you all get to enjoy this read and appreciate all your support!

Happy Reading, Shaheryar Hasan

letter from the editors Dear Fabulous Readers,

Welcome to the Lingual Groove 2023 Fall Edition. It was a pleasure to be a part of assembling this semester’s edition of the Lingual Groove. Within these pages, you will find the voices of our very own students and faculty that comprise the spirit of our community here at ASDOH. As one of the co-editors, I got to take part in coming up with a variety of topics that bring light to important aspects within our school, the field of dentistry, our faculty, and our peers. This magazine serves to showcase the diversity, liveliness, and passion that makes our school a unique place. From brainstorming topics, to receiving submissions, editing, and designing the magazine, it’s fantastic to see it all come to life and to share it with you all. Thank you to ASDA’s leadership board, especially Hannah, who supported and kept us on track in the making of this magazine. I would also like to give a shoutout to our D1 intern, Abe, for assisting us along the way!

Y o ur p ar a gr a p h te xt

Happy Reading, Ushna Ahmad

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Co Editors-in-Chief

Shaheryar Hasan + Ushna Ahmad

Dear ASDOH Students, On behalf of ASDOH ASDA, we would like to express our gratitude and appreciation to serve you this year thus far. As Co-Presidents of ASDOH ASDA, we had the honor of connecting with the ASDOH family and also understanding and reinforcing the values, mission, and vision of our program.

However, all these efforts to organize remarkable events that could fully reflect the core values and culture of our program, could not have been accomplished without the astounding dedication and diligent work of our 44 members on the ASDOH ASDA board. As we finish the Fall Term of this academic year, we would like to acknowledge and recognize the successful series of events that embodies the work of the school’s largest, student-run, student-led organizations.

letter from the ASDA Presidents

In our Welcome Week, we welcomed our Class of 2027. We commemorated that week with a social event of 216 students from all 4 classes, which is probably, by far, our largest and loudest turnout. Our Prophy Cup committee unified our students and faculty with the ALS Foundation Arizona in memoriam of Dr. Tim Lukavsky. Even with the scorching heat and direct sunlight, our golfers played on this day to honor Dr. Tim Lukavsky and together, with our sponsorships, we were able to donate $1700 to the ALS Foundation Arizona. The debate team alongside the Legislative committee organized our annual Pontics & Politics with our fellow comrade, MWU-AZ. We are proud to say that ASDOH kept our winning streak and has won this year’s blazing debate! To recognize and foster Ethics Week, our Ethics committee prepared an engaging discussion through Mugs and Morals. Hopping on this train, our Legislative committee had prepared a series of events for Advocacy month. To celebrate the end of this Fall Semester, our Formal committee threw a memorable Holiday Party open to all students and faculty. What better way to end this semester with no other than the holiday spirit and the spread of holiday cheer with the ASDOH family!

The Communications committee deserves praise for their continuous efforts to make our Instagram reflective of the hard work we have done this semester. Our DEI committee had been delivering monthly recognition on our diverse population to define the diversity in the ASDOH community. We are incredibly thankful for the opportunities to coordinate these events and to collaborate with other student organizations. More importantly, we are immensely proud of the representation that our dental school community delivers. Thank you for attending our various activities throughout the semester, including our Lunch & Learns, ASDA Fever Week, Dinner Socials, and representing ASDOH at the NLC conference.

We hope that our team continues to foster the familial environment, memories, and laughter at ASDOH. As we continue to carry this baton of leadership, we can’t wait to see what the Spring Semester will entail.

Thank you all for inspiring us to be the best leaders that we could be!

Best Wishes & Warmest Regards, Kimia Firoozi and Hannah Lee ASDOH ASDA 2023-2024 Co-Presidents

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Dean’s message I am writing my Dean’s message after welcoming another admissions interview day group of candidates for A.T. Still University’s Arizona School of Dentistry & Oral Health (ATSU-ASDOH) Class of 2028. I’m sure that each of you remembers your interview day at ATSU-ASDOH, whether on campus or virtually via Zoom during the pandemic. It’s one of my favorite fall activities, where I am privileged to meet each group. I have the pleasure of welcoming and introducing the candidates to our ATSU-ASDOH culture of caring for our patients, our communities, and each other. I invite our candidates to talk to anyone they can while on campus, to find out about their ATSU-ASDOH experience. I do this because what makes our program such a special place to learn and to work is our people, each student, resident, staff, and faculty member. Our admissions committee continues to do an amazing job of sorting through thousands of qualified individuals to find those who are best able to contribute to our culture. This is truly a special place, and I am so blessed to have had the opportunity to be a part of our ATSU-ASDOH community.

As I reflect on these past several years since I’ve joined ATSU-ASDOH, we continue to move forward while maintaining our unique mission and culture of caring. We’ve weathered the COVID pandemic together, meeting the challenges of virtual classes, social distancing, and enhanced infection control.

Our faculty and staff continue to meet the changing scope of practice in dentistry by rapidly incorporating new knowledge, techniques, and clinical experiences into our curriculum. Our school continues to invest in our facilities and technology, including major updates in our classrooms, simulation lab, research space, and clinics. Our student and faculty research program continues to grow and our grant success rates are outstanding. Our DIC, teledentistry, IPE, special care, and ICSP programs continue to thrive and provide our students with amazing opportunities to improve oral health education and access to care for the communities we serve across the country. Our alumni are improving the lives of those around them in a number of ways, through their general and specialist practices, in a variety of community-based clinics, as internal and external ATSU-ASDOH faculty, and through professional associations and community groups.

By Margarita Perez.

Photography by Francois Mercer

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Dean’s message All these accomplishments are the result of the efforts and passion of each member of our ATSUASDOH community. Each year our ATSU-ASDOH community changes with graduation, family moves, retirements, new hires, new community partners, and new incoming classes of students and residents. But with these changes comes the growth of our ATSU-ASDOH family, and the opportunity for others to experience, to share, and to contribute to our culture of caring. Our alumni and our faculty and staff who continue on their professional journeys or choose to retire to share more time with their families and friends, will always be a part of our ATSU-ASDOH family and will continue our mutual culture of caring with those around them.

As you are all aware, Colleen and I have made the decision for us both to retire this academic year, giving us the flexibility to spend more time with our family and friends scattered across the country. We have treasured our time at ATSU-ASDOH, and are so thankful that we have had these several years to teach, learn, work, share, and grow with everyone in our ATSU-ASDOH family. Although retired, we will always continue to be a part of ATSU-ASDOH and look forward to sharing our culture of caring whereverwe may go. Thank you for sharing your time with us, and thank you for choosing ATSU-ASDOH!

-Dr. Robert Trombly

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Bittersweet Goodbyes Dr. Wayne Cottam

I was asked to give a reflection on my time here at ASDOH. That is a difficult task for two reasons.

1. How do you adequately reflect on something that has been the focus of your efforts and dedication for 20 years in a short article?

2. It is still hard for me to accept that, because I am moving on to something else, I am actually providing a reflection on something that has been the focus of my efforts and dedication for 20 years. But I will give it my best shot.

I might start by reflecting on how far we have come. I came to ASDOH about 6 months before the first students started. I have been here to welcome every class and have been a part of every one of our graduates' education and, as Dr. Trombly mentioned in his announcement, have had the privilege of teaching Head and Neck anatomy, providing this core foundational knowledge to every ASDOH graduate and all current classes of ASDOH students. I, along with Marcia Arbizu,a marvelous blessing in my life, have provided every dental graduate with unparalleled clinical experiences through the ICSP program. So I have seen everything from the beginning.

Let me tell you a little bit about the very first ASDOH White Coat Ceremony. It was held in 2003 on the third floor of the 5850 building. The floor was an unfinished shell with no walls and no air conditioning.

We put up curtains to block out the cement covered pillars, put up a portable stage, brought in portable air conditioners that got the temperature down to a barely tolerable 87 degrees and we all walked to the ceremony, uphill, both ways, in the heat.

That was the beginning of what was to become ASDOH. Since then, we have progressed. From those humble beginnings where there were many critics and naysayers, we have built a very special place. We have built a highly respected school with a unique and very special mission, vision and environment. We have built a program that results in spectacularly trained clinicians and compassionate, community minded health professionals that are leading the profession. From those humble beginnings, and let me assure you that at the time they seemed like very tenuous beginnings, we have built a school with a venerable tradition - not a traditional school, but a school with a tradition. A school with a tradition of excellence in clinical proficiency, compassion, whole person care and community and public health. Each of you are part of that tradition today. I hope that is exciting to you but I also hope that you also feel a bit of the weight and responsibility that comes with having the privilege of becoming part of that tradition. It has been my privilege to be a big part of building that tradition. I would not have traded the opportunity to do that for anything.

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Bittersweet Goodbyes Dr. Wayne Cottam

In coming to ASDOH, I had to make the difficult decision to leave the Community Health Center I had built from one to four clinics and severely limit my clinical practice to 1 - 1 1/2 days per week. That was very difficult for me. My patients are why I went into the profession. In fact, I decided during my first few weeks of dental school that working to bring services to the underserved was what dentistry had to be for me. That relationship had to be replaced by something. I found that the wonderful relationships that I could develop teaching, mentoring and molding students into the professionals that they eventually would become, was every bit as rewarding. Seeing the growth through hard work, adversity, struggles and pure persistence has been the highlight of my time here at ASDOH. Watching students mature from their first nervous day to the time they return from their last rotation, full of confidence, compassion, competence and vision, is a remarkable thing that has been my unique privilege to see. Then watching those graduates move on to be leaders in Health Centers, Education, Private Practice and Industry has been more rewarding than I ever could have imagined.

The trade off was definitely worth it.

In return, ASDOH students have given me some of the most precious things they can give.

You have given me, and ASDOH, your trust. At every White Coat Ceremony I look out on a new and eager class and remind myself that sitting in those seats are a lifetime of dreams and ambitions. I remind myself that you have entrusted us to help you realize those dreams and ambitions. That realization made me, and all the ASDOH faculty and staff, work hard not to let you down.

You have given me, and ASDOH, your hard work and dedication. I have learned that students will meet any expectation you set for them if you make that expectation clear and give them the tools to meet it. Perhaps the most touching and rewarding thing that students have ever said to me is that they work hard because they do not want to let me down. I cannot tell you what it means that you would put that much dedication and hard work in response to our efforts to teach you. It means everything.

I guess lastly, I would say that I have come to the realization that teaching you Head and Neck Anatomy is in fact the least important thing that I could teach you. To be sure you need to know that, but much more important is solidifying a commitment to service, the profession and the public.

To illustrate that, I would suggest that until you entered dental school, you had pursued YOUR education. Your efforts and your education were largely for your benefit. Your priorities, your goals, your interests, your education. Yes, along the way you volunteered, you helped others, you contributed to society, mainly because that is who you are but also because it was a means to an end - to get you here. Once you entered dental school, that changed. The purpose of your education began to move away from being solely for your benefit. The purpose of this phase of your education is less and less to benefit you and help you achieve your goals and more and more to benefit your patients and society and is to be used principally to help your patients and society achieve and maintain health. Your time will become less yours depending on the needs of your patients. Your decisions will become less focused on you and more focused on your patients and if you are truly to fulfill the social contract that comes along with being part of the dental profession, your priorities are less yours and more those of your patients.

Bittersweet Goodbyes Dr. Wayne Cottam

I to remind myself of this concept, I reflect on some words of Meriwether Lewis of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Meriwether Lewis was a remarkable man, relatively successful as a soldier, extremely smart, highly educated, and became the personal secretary to Thomas Jefferson.

Meriwether Lewis impressed President Jefferson so much that Jefferson chose him to lead the remarkable expedition to try and find a water trade route across the country. Lewis in turn chose Clark.

Lewis took a full year in Philadelphia to learn more about what he supposed he would encounter. He learned more about medicine, the native population, botany, biology, meteorology, geology, cartography and a host of other subjects. With Clark he organized the expedition, chose and trained men, took joint command of a journey off the map into a completely unknown world all before was 31. Inarguably he had accomplished much so far in his short life. Much of it for the benefit of others and society. On his birthday on August 18th, 1805, while nearing the continental divide during the second year of the expedition he wrote the following: “Today I completed my 31st year.”

He figured he was about half way through his life.

“I reflected that I had as yet done little, very little indeed, to further the happiness of the human race or to advance the information of the succeeding generation. I viewed with regret the many hours I have spent in indolence and now sorely feel the want of that information which those hours would have given me had they been judiciously expended.”

This from a person who probably accomplished more in 31 years than most others in a lifetime. But then he continues.

“I dash from me the gloomy thought and resolve in future to redouble my exertions and in future to live for mankind as I have heretofore lived for myself.”

Meriwether Lewis came to understand the difference between striving for something for yourself and striving for something for others. That is at the heart of being part of the profession. And when we teach you that, and you learn it, you become the heart of the profession.

I’ll end by reminding you of some quotes that you have heard before and were my attempt at teaching you these MOST important things.

Bittersweet Goodbyes Dr. Wayne Cottam

George Pepperdine: “A great gift has been made to each and every one of us. The privilege of living in the world for a short span of years and the opportunity of doing our part to help the less fortunate, to improve civilization, to advance knowledge … The gift of human life and the opportunity which is ours to serve others should be regarded as a sacred trust.”

Albert Schwitzer: I don't know what your destiny will be, but one thing I know: the only ones among you who will be really happy are those who will have sought and found how to serve.

Ralph Walto Emmerson: “To leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition.

To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived, this is to have succeeded.”

Grandma Cottam: “Successful people do things that unsuccessful people don’t want to do. They don’t want to do them either, but they want to succeed.”

Grandma Cottam “If you don’t have integrity, nothing else matters.”

Thank you for all that you have given me. Keep up the hard work.

Dr. Cottam

NLC 2023 Chicago From: Tara Dadafarin (D3) Attending ASDA’s National Leadership Conference has been one of most memorable times in my dental career thus far. From the organization of the conference, numerous keynote speakers, and getting to explore the beautiful city of Chicago with my dental colleagues, I felt very honored to attend this year. I decided to attend NLC due to the opportunity to network with other dental professionals, learn more about how to be a strong leader and provider, and ultimately, get to spend time with our ASDOH ASDA team. The weekend consisted of opening and closing speakers with breakout sessions in between, in which we were able to receive CE credit for. Each breakout session consisted of a particular topic ranging from how to best train your dental team to facial injectables. One of my favorite breakout sessions was with Dr. Akanksha Srivastava. She is a maxillofacial prosthodontist at the University of Illinois Health Craniofacial Center in Chicago. She has over 60 published books, chapters, abstracts, and manuscripts. She specializes in craniofacial implants and prosthetic rehabilitation by utilizing state of the art technology. In her session, Dr. Srivastava explained how she uses augmented reality and virtual reality to be able to treatment plan more effectively and efficiently for surgeries. She also uses this technology to practice her surgeries prior to stepping into the operatory room in order to be best prepared, giving the patient the best outcome. Not only was I amazed by how knowledgeable Dr. Srivastava was, but I enjoyed learning how she was using technology in her favor to best treat her patients.

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Today, this technology is being used to teach anatomy and even to simulate drilling for students beginning their dental career. It is exciting to see all the changes that will come. On Friday, there was a vendor fair where we not only got to take home so many goodies and apparel, we were able to talk to different DSOs, dental material manufacturers, insurance companies, and even our favorite scrub brand, Figs. Then Saturday, we had the tech expo which allowed us to explore the latest technology in dentistry. My favorite part was learning in more depth about Straumann implants since it is something we regularly use at our clinic at ASDOH. The world of dentistry is advancing rapidly due to technology, so it is crucial to stay up to date. And for the evenings, the ASDA organization had fun events for us like a boat dinner party and Halloween party! Being on the lake in Chicago with the skyline beautifully lit up was an unforgettable experience.

We ate, laughed and danced the night away! I truly enjoyed spending time with my fellow ASDOH colleagues and getting to know them more outside of school. I would recommend any student to attend this conference because of the connections you will make and the memories you will never forget.

NLC 2023 Chicago From: Jainik Patel (D2)

The ASDA National Leadership Conference serves as the pinnacle of networking with student dentists across the nation, many of whom are bound to become future colleagues. As a second year attendee, my anticipation stemmed from this eagerness to connect with people from vastly different backgrounds who shared my love for the field of dentistry. While the focus of dental school is to develop clinical competency through high-quality clinical education, the mission of ASDA and the core values encompassing the National Leadership Conference extend beyond the realm of dental school by delving into topics such as post-graduation financial management, building a brand that enables your practice to stand out, as well as exciting technological advancements that will play a transformative role on the field within a matter of years. A quote by Michelle Poler, the Keynote Speaker and author of Hello, Fears, that resonated deeply within me was “The enemy of success is not failure—it’s comfort”. She relentlessly defied her comfort by facing 100 fears over 100 days, culminating in a TEDx talk after having inspired thousands of people across the world to face their fears.

Traversing the line that extends beyond our comfort zones inhibits action, and this moment of eureka within the opening session enabled me to adopt an alternative, highly ambitious mindset in my personal and professional life by choosing to anticipate the best possible outcome rather than the worst.

We had the opportunity of experiencing several breakout sessions throughout the duration of the conference, each of which featured unique modalities for dental students to explore innovations, dental specialties, private practice ownership, and personal finances. A highly innovative and exhilarating breakout session that peaked my interest was Transforming Craniofacial Reconstruction with Mixed Reality by Dr. Akanksha Srivastava, BDS, MSc, MDSc, FACP, FA AMP, a current maxillofacial prosthodontist in Chicago, Illinois. Her session began by featuring an analysis of how virtual reality and augmented reality are enhancing the medical field, the latter of which can utilize digital biomarkers to predict the onset of Alzheimer’s disease when patients present with mild cognitive impairment. Moreover, virtual and augmented reality can be utilized as a modality for rehearsing surgeries prior to being in the operating room. All of this is achieved through haptic virtual reality gloves that generate tactile sensation and determine the position or distance relative to an object. The application of augmented reality into the field of dentistry serves as an inevitable replacement for surgical guides prior to implant placement, which cuts down on the extensive fabrication time and bypasses the potential bulkiness of surgical guides intraorally. Virtual reality is not restricted to axial, sagittal, and coronal views that are found on conventional implant planning software, and this allows implant placement to be completed at almost one-tenth of the normal time required. There is also extensive prosthodontic application of virtual and augmented reality by eliminating the need to utilize reduction guides during crown preparations. The promising nature of future innovations in virtual and augmented reality feature the ability to visualize ideal reduction and eliminate undercuts when performing crown preparations.

All in all, the National Leadership Conference reignited my drive for achieving my most ambitious professional goals, and I met hundreds of colleagues within the field of dentistry along the way.

NLC 2023 Chicago From: Blake Wickert (D1) Attending the National Leadership Conference was a blessing. The vibrant Chicago setting was filled with driven individuals seeking to create an impact within dentistry. The conference encapsulated themes of continual education, financial knowledge and upcoming technological renovations. Although lectures were one aspect of the dental convocation, this conference also allowed growth in networking and exploration of a city previously untraveled personally.

Leaders from all over the country gathered in the midwest environment to hear a diverse variety of keynote speakers lecturing on topics that ranged from financial struggles of dental school to technological advances within craniofacial reconstructive surgery. The design of the conference started out with breakfast followed by 45 minute lectures throughout the day from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. With multiple lectures occurring each hour I was able to pick and choose which lectures piqued my interest.

The first day I started out by heading to the first lecture titled “Managing Personal Finances”. In this lecture the speaker talked about the different ways to pay off student loans, having financial goals and the importance of “rainy day” or emergency funds in case of tragedies such as a global pandemic. The subsequent lecture I attended I found to be one of the most interesting out of all of the lectures I attended at the National Leadership Conference.

The title of this lecture was called “Transforming Craniofacial Reconstruction with Mixed Reality”. In this lecture Dr. Akanksha Srivastava spoke about the revolutionizing outcomes that augmented and virtual reality can have on surgery techniques. With virtual reality headsets, there is now a program that can allow surgeons to perform the procedure before actually performing the real procedure on a patient. Within this virtual reality environment the surgeon can choose from any tool they desire to perform the procedure and can look at the virtual body from any angle of their choice. The controllers held (also known as haptic gloves) during this pre-procedural training system can vibrate and allow the surgeon to receive mechanical feedback providing the surgeon with sensory proprioception and full range of motion when virtually performing the procedure. Dr. Srivastava spoke about how these advances are better preparing surgeons and that some surgeries have even been performed with the use of augmented reality for digital superimposition of implant vectors abutment positioning prosthesis.

Furthermore the other lectures were helpful, however, one of my favorite parts of the conference was the Technology Expo. Different companies such as Straumann and Immersify held booths allowing hands-on dental related activities. At the Straumann booth working alongside an oral surgeon I had the opportunity to place an implant on a model. At the Immersify booth ASDOH’s very own Razel Zapata was showing off the Immersify application learning tools for studying various dental topics. Another booth allowed the opportunity to take an oral fitness test by doing a full mouth rinse and examining the aMMP-8 levels of the oral cavity.

Although knowledge and lectures are key components to a conference, networking and creating relationships are invaluable assets to a professional convention. Throughout the windy city trip I met a plethora of like-minded individuals driven in becoming, if not already, leaders within their dental school. The conference allowed the opportunity to even meet our friends from across the valley at Midwestern University. Their ASDA president had a chance to take a tour of the American Dental Association research building and invited us from ASDOH to join her on the tour and learn from skilled researchers on upcoming research.

It was great to intermingle and make new connections from other schools, however, the most valuable connections I made as a first year dental student were the upperclassmen within ASDOH. This was a great opportunity to make new friends that I did not previously have the chance to make. The informal gatherings outside of the professional lectures provided a soothing environment to make these connections with others and hear their stories or plans of continual education after dental school. One of the most valuable aspects of this conference was gaining mentors and gathering knowledge outside of the lecture setting.

The informal events extended past the conference setting and allowed for exploration of the Chicago area. The first two nights provided excellent networking opportunities entitling members to dinner in different social settings. The first night provided a scenic boat cruise advertising the beautiful and vibrant Chicago skyline. The following night provided a social setting at a ping-pong eatery. Heartland Dental had rented the downtown eatery for members of the conference to have dinner, socialize, and even play ping-pong against professional players.

Overall the conference was a once in a lifetime opportunity and was a blessing to be part of it. I aspire to continue to attend these dental conventions and expand my knowledge, formulate new connections through networking, and traverse through new areas.

All in all, the National Leadership Conference reignited my drive for achieving my most ambitious professional goals, and I met hundreds of colleagues within the field of dentistry along the way.

NLC 2023 Chicago From: Gabe Roye (D3)

ASDA NLC in Chicago was very much an event worth looking forward to! My initial reasoning for wanting to attend was being afforded a rare opportunity to network with hundreds of other dental students from all across the country and sharing our experiences of what it's like being in school. The other neat thing was being able to interact with the dental brands and companies that invested time into sharing about their areas of expertise. This ranged from everything including DSOs, AI software, personal finance, implant technology, and groundbreaking educational development. The breakout sessions created an opportunity to learn about whatever you were interested in and even offered a chance to get CE credits. My personal favorites were augmented reality software that providers could use to practice implant surgeries, endo, and even OMFS. and a personal finance session that broke down the financial benefits of being a private practice owner.

Beyond the educational aspects, the National Leadership Conference provided an invaluable platform for networking. Engaging with fellow dental students, as well as established leaders in the field, offered unique opportunities to exchange ideas, share experiences, and forge connections that extend beyond the conference venue. The diverse array of attendees, representing various dental schools and professional backgrounds, created a vibrant atmosphere conducive to collaboration and mutual growth.

Networking events facilitated meaningful interactions with dental professionals who have made significant contributions to the field. Conversations ranged from discussing the challenges and rewards of dental practice to exploring collaborative initiatives that could shape the future of oral healthcare. These connections proved to be instrumental in broadening my perspective on the multifaceted aspects of a career in dentistry.

The collaborative spirit of the conference extended to organized panel discussions and group activities, where participants had the chance to engage in thought-provoking conversations about the role of leadership in dentistry. The exchange of ideas and experiences during these sessions not only enhanced my leadership skills but also provided valuable insights into the diverse paths that dental professionals can take to make a meaningful impact in their communities.

All in all, NLC was a great event and would benefit anyone looking to expand their personal growth and development while making meaningful connections that could very well impact your career. The fusion of innovation, education, and networking made this conference an enriching and unforgettable milestone in my journey as a dental student, reinforcing my commitment to staying at the forefront of advancements in oral healthcare.

Advocacy

and

Dentistry

Submission by Ruby Nguyen (D3) As dental students, our nose is always in books, including studying for an oral pathology exam and stressing out about how our class II prep is 0.5 mm off. With our limited free time and knowledge of dentistry, it is difficult to believe that we as students can affect legislation in Washington D.C. However, there are ways to participate in advocacy through the local, state, and national level.

Every dental student at the ASDOH has a membership to ASDA. As a member, students have the opportunity to be part of ASDA Action, which is a section of the ASDA website where we can learn more about the current bills, legislation, and current representatives in our state and community. ASDA Action’s online page helps to make supporting bills seamless by sending a message directly from the website to your local representatives.

There are many other ways to get involved in advocacy as offered by the website, including: signing for alerts to stay up-to-date on ASDA advocacy efforts; finding other bills to support; registering to vote; finding your polling location; and finding resources for voting

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such as elected officials and candidates currently running. You can also contact your elected officials and ask them to cosponsor a bill through the website.

Each year in November, ASDA hosts Advocacy Month, where dental students have the opportunity to hear from current dental professionals and dental faculty who are actively advocating at both the state and national levels. This is a great opportunity to learn, network, and spread information about advocacy. Another way to get involved with local advocacy is to participate in your state House of Delegates. In the month of September, I was able to attend the Arizona Dental Association’s (AZDA) House of Delegates in Tucson, Arizona. I was able to see how different bills are proposed and voted on during the meeting. I was able to watch some of the ASDOH faculty participate in the voting process. I was able to see our school dean speak confidently about advocating for tuition and scholarships in support for the future dental student.

During the meeting, Payal Patel (D2) and Brooklyn Noble (D2) represented ASDOH as our student delegates. At the AZDA House of Delegates, I was so surprised at the many possibilities for dental students to participate in advocating for dentistry.

Another opportunity to participate in advocacy is the ASDA National Lobby Day in Washington, D.C., which is held annually in April. This amazing event gathers hundreds of dental students, dental professionals, and prominent speakers to receive training on how to lobby their lawmakers. Many members of Congress are present at these events to discuss important bills and to listen to the voices of our national dental student community. If you are a dental student who wants your future employer or residency program to know about your passion in advocating for the dental profession, ASDA also offers an Advocacy Certificate Program.

Dental students who make an exceptional contribution to advocacy will be awarded the Excellence in Advocacy Engagement Award.

Even as a dental student, it is important to have your voice heard today. I encourage you to visit the ASDA Action, advocate at your state level and national level, and support important bills that can drastically change the political climate and affect our lives in the next few years.

Submission by: Abe Hammond (D1) Maintaining a healthy balance during your dental school journey is fundamental for academic success and one’s overall health. As most of us know, the hardships of dental school can have a toll on both your physical and mental health, however this does not mean we can’t reach a happy medium between your studies and personal wellbeing.

Firstly, prioritize physical fitness. Daily exercise will not only relieve stress but will also boost your energy throughout the day. Adapt your fitness routine to your liking and schedule, whether that means hitting the gym, participating in group fitness classes, joining intramural sports, or even enjoying a walk. Additionally, while one’s personal diet may get overlooked, it is equally important for your physical and mental health.

Choose foods high in nutrients like whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and ensure to drink lots of water.

Prioritizing one’s mental health in dental school is tremendously important, even more so with the emotional demands related to the field of dentistry. To cope with these challenges, consider incorporating mindfulness techniques such as meditation or yoga into your daily routine, allowing you to efficiently manage your stress and improve mental clarity. Furthermore, connecting with nature can provide an excellent opportunity to clear your mind. Take study breaks or set time aside on the weekend to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors and breathe in fresh air. Maintaining social connections and not isolating yourself is extremely important for your emotional bliss. Not only sharing the challenges you may experience, but also celebrating your many successes with friends and family can make a significant difference in your journey.

Building a support group of friends, family, and professors is key to a healthy and balanced dental school experience.

Lastly, set realistic goals. Prioritizing self-care and adjusting your academic expectations as necessary is entirely acceptable. Learning to maintain the delicate balance between your studies and personal well-being is a talent in itself. Finding this equilibrium in dental school is an ongoing journey, but by applying these strategies, you can optimize your overall well-being, excel academically, and lay the foundation for a successful and fulfilling career in dentistry.

Health & Wellness 16

Submission by: Gracie Groth (D2) No doubt about it- dental school is hard work! Balancing a busy academic or clinical schedule and the various demands of independent life, can be challenging and overwhelming at times. Increasing awareness and adjusting your health habits can aid in achieving a healthy balance.

Often overlooked, simple practices such as nurturing your body with proper nutrition, hydration, and sleep are more critical to your success than ever before. Daily customs such as filling a water bottle to bring to school every morning can prompt hydration. Similarly, many individuals sacrifice sleep for time to study.

However, lack of sleep is shown to have a negative influence on memory and recall, ironically opposing the late night efforts. With such a busy agenda, using a daily paper or digital planner can aid in time management, so you are able to meet deadlines and rest peacefully.

Many individuals feel as though they don’t have time to do anything but think about dental school. Engaging in other activities for your body and spirit keeps you healthier and allows you to have better life balance for the “long haul” during dental school.

Physical activities such as personal training, sports, or group fitness classes provide a social aspect while relieving stress, and maintaining fitness. Even 2-3 hours per week of simple movements such as walking outside or stretching can increase your body’s blood flow, leading to improvement in your physical and mental fitness.

It is also equally important to find the time to slow down and relax your mind. Practices such as deep breathing, journaling, or meditation are relevantly convenient to recharge your mind. You can engage in these tasks before you walk into class, during breaks, before studying, before bed, and before seeing a patient. Deep breathing has been shown to be extremely helpful in regulating your body’s reaction to stress as well as re-oxygenating your blood for better brain power. Keeping these intentions in mind will guide you in achieving a healthy balance, as you continue to prosper as an individual and dental professional.

Health & Wellness

Diversity in Dentistry

Submission by: Akosua Afriyie (D1)

The embrace of diversity has become increasingly significant in the dynamic and ever-evolving field of dentistry. Like any other profession, the dental profession benefits immensely from the inclusion of individuals from various backgrounds, experiences, and cultures. Beyond promoting equality, diversity in dentistry enriches the field, fosters innovation, and ultimately improves patient care. I believe that increasing diversity in dentistry is more than a moral imperative. As the patient population becomes more diverse, having a dental workforce that reflects this diversity is necessary for delivering comprehensive and patient-centered care.

When patients see themselves represented in the dental team, they are more likely to feel understood, respected, and confident in the care they receive.

Consider the last instance in which you provided assistance to someone and were able to relate to or comprehend their needs. Then, contrast that experience with one in which you were required to assist someone but were unable to comprehend their perspective or even relate to them. It is more difficult to help someone when you do not understand, relate to, or have ever been exposed to their situation. As dental providers, patient-centered care becomes harder when you don't understand your patients' backgrounds, needs, disparities, and nuances. Personally, as an underrepresented student, I strive to incorporate my identity into my dental career. It is important to me to always keep that at the forefront because I know that I bring a unique perspective and culture to this field that will benefit and serve a broad population.

This integration of identity is not about standing out but rather about adding depth and breadth to the profession.

Another important reason for having a diverse makeup of individuals is that it builds cultural proficiency amongst the group . Since everyone has inherent biases, coming together as a diverse group stimulates discussion and understanding of our differences and commonalities, which improves both patient care and the workplace environment. It is evident that diverse teams are more competent and better equipped to address the unique oral health challenges that different communities may face. Understanding cultural nuances, dietary habits, and healthcare beliefs can lead to more tailored and effective preventive and curative care, which reduces health disparities.

Recently, ASDOH held the Diversity in Dentistry (DID) Summit. This program was a collaboration between DID creator Dr. Laila Hishaw and her passion for creating a nurturing environment for students from various backgrounds and cultures who might

be interested in dentistry but lack the resources, inspiration, or confidence to pursue it. I served as a mentor for this program and many others, utilizing my perspective, experience, and passion for others in the position that I was once in.

This is one of many contributions that I will continue to make—actively participating in events and programs that support and foster increasing diversity.

In essence, I believe that diversity in dentistry is an indispensable asset that contributes to the vitality and effectiveness of the dental profession. Furthermore, by incorporating one's identity into their practice and actively working to promote diversity, we can make meaningful contributions that go beyond the treatment room. Embracing diversity in dentistry is not only a reflection of societal values but also a strategic imperative for delivering high-quality, patient-centered care in the constantly evolving field of dentistry, which will positively influence our healthcare and ultimately patients' lives.

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Life in Arizona

Submission by: Annaliese Mann (D1)

Are you interested in seeing up to twenty-four national monument sites, eating some amazing food, hiking with a view, or just curious to see where the desert wind takes you? If so, Arizona is your place to be! Fly into Phoenix and stop for some of the best Thai food that lies in the heart of the city at a restaurant called Glai Baan, or stop for some Vietnamese coffee at Cafe Mollie. Still hungry? Drive to Scottsdale for the Rosa Pizza at Chris Bianco’s pizzeria, stop at the Biltmore, and go hike Camelback mountain while you are there! There are also an endless amount of shops, as well as restaurants to choose from of all different kinds. If you enjoyed your hiking and views at Camelback, you would love seeing the beautiful red rocks in Sedona.

Sedona’s peaceful atmosphere yet endless amount of adventurous opportunities make this place one of my favorites. Hiking trails such as Boynton Canyon, Bell Rock, and Cathedral Rock will give you some of the most uniquely stunning views, but also all vary from one another in the best way. After hiking, make your way to the Hideaway House for some famous Italian and desserts! If you are feeling even more adventurous, you can drive either an hour more to Flagstaff to see the beautiful trees (and maybe even snow in the winter), or two more hours to see the Grand Canyon. Don’t forget to stop and take pictures of the national forest signs in both Sedona and the Grand Canyon - Coconino National Forest in Sedona, and Kaibab National Forest at the Grand Canyon. On your way back towards Phoenix, enjoy the cruise through Verde Valley before finally seeing signs of cacti again. Stop in downtown Gilbert for some pizza and wine at Postinos, some prickly pear ice cream next door at Topo, or in downtown Chandler at Recreo Cantina for a yummy Mexican cuisine! If you do not get to do everything in one trip, do not worry, there is always next time. Arizona will always be waiting for you!

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Submission by: Shiza Haroon (D3) Life in Arizona is beautiful, unique, and inviting for so many different reasons. From the Grand Canyon, to the various beautiful hiking trails nestled in the city of Phoenix itself, there is something for everyone. One place in particular, however, sticks out to me when I think about the most unique places to visit in Arizona. Sedona, Arizona is a truly enchanting destination that I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone looking for a unique and awe-inspiring travel experience. A variety of reasons make Sedona the beautiful place it is, but I will just be naming a few. Sedona is especially known for its unparalleled natural beauty. Nestled in the heart of the Arizona desert, this town is surrounded by stunning red rock formations that seem to glow in the sunlight. The iconic red canyons create a picturesque landscape that's a photographer's dream come true. Sedona is also famous for its "vortex" sites, which are believed to emit unique energy that can have a profound impact on those who visit.

Whether or not you subscribe to these beliefs, the vortex sites provide serene and picturesque locations for meditation and self-reflection. Due to its low light pollution, Sedona is also an excellent place for stargazing. The clear desert skies offer breathtaking views of the stars and constellations, making it a must-visit destination for astronomy enthusiasts. Lastly, whether you're seeking spiritual growth, relaxation, or just a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Sedona offers numerous retreat centers, spas, and wellness activities. You can find peace and rejuvenation in this tranquil environment. In conclusion, Sedona, Arizona is a beautiful magical place where natural beauty, adventure, culture, and spirituality come together in perfect harmony. It's a destination that will leave you with unforgettable memories and a deep appreciation for the wonders of the natural world. So, if you're looking for a place that will both awe and rejuvenate your senses, Sedona is the destination to explore.

Life in Arizona

Submission by: Thomas Kantaras (D2) Ever since I have landed in Arizona around a year ago, I have taken delight in exploring the surrounding areas, sights, and attractions sprinkled throughout the oasis we find ourselves in. This land caters to diverse cravings and desires, ensuring there's an offering for everyone. For the adventurous spirit, a multitude of hiking trails and outdoor escapades beckon. Camelback Mountain beckons with a captivating ascent, nestled at the heart of Scottsdale, offering breathtaking vistas. Drifting down the Salt River, embracing nature's call, indulging in a cool drink, and witnessing wild horses roam free is another exhilarating way to satisfy the call of the outdoors.

Should one seek a vibrant start to their day or a serene haven for study, look no further than Infusion Coffee & Tea. This Tempe coffee haven boasts a constantly evolving menu of captivating coffee concoctions, boasting a welcoming ambiance and affable staff. Their tie-dye matcha, embellished with strawberry puree and coconut milk is highly recommended Lastly (and arguably the most importantly) comes the culinary scene. Arizona has not disappointed me with its offerings thus far. However, there are some that I consider to be my favorites.

Hodori, a Korean gem in downtown Mesa, presents vibrant delights. Their soon tofu soup, bubbling in a stone bowl with a freshly cracked egg, tantalizes the senses. Nearby, Green Corner serves up sumptuous Mediterranean fare, prepared fresh each day. To cap off a leisurely night out with friends, Pemberton in Phoenix entices with an eclectic array of food and drink stands, nestled amidst a tapestry of independent shops, all beneath a canopy of music and neon lights. I will continue to journey around this new place I call home, trying to uncover as many new experiences as I possibly can. With Arizona’s growth steadily increasing, though, I have no doubt there will always be something new to explore.

Life in Arizona

OUR PETS Kiana Okonowski’s (D3) Dog: Baloo

Shaheryar Hasan’s (D3) Bird: Gigi

We rescued him just 24 hours before his slaughter at a South Korean Meat Farm when he was only 2 years old. Now he is the most loving dog who loves people, snuggles, and food.

This is my green cheek conure. He is very loud, attention seeking and loves to sit on your shoulder. Fun fact is that he loves sunflower seeds and eats them with his foot.

Loryn Young’s (D1) Dog: Scarlet

Shiza Haroon’s (D3) Cat: Leo

She is a chihuahua and her favorite food is popcorn, she weighed less than 1 pound when she was born, she loves to climb, and she has seen both the Pacific Ocean and the Atlantic Ocean!

A fun fact about him is that he knows how to open doors with his paws!

Thomas Kantaras’s (D2) Dog: Sunny

Abe Hammond’s (D1) Dog: Zoey

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This is Sunny. A fun fact about him is tthat he thinks ice cubes are treats!

She is extremely hyper 24/7 and is always ready for walks and to play but refuses to play catch with me to this day.

Being a business owner

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Interview with Dr. Malek

What does being a practice owner mean for you?

Essentially, I’m a small business owner. I provide jobs and therefore the economic livelihood of my employees. I also provide an enjoyable place for patients to receive their periodontal care. Running a business is a 24/7 job you are responsible for the good and the bad and the ugly. Therefore, you want to minimize the bad and the ugly and maximize the good. My business role model is Walt Disney. You never have a bad time at Disneyland. Disneyland is a fully controlled environment, there’s never any trash, nor even a hair out of place, it’s perfect all the time, every detail has been looked at for the betterment of your experience.

How do you balance between teaching and private practice?

Teaching is good for my soul. It provides me a break from the strain of private practice. Being able to do both is truly the best of both worlds in my opinion.

Would you define yourself as a businesswomen in the field of dentistry, why or why not?

I would define myself as a business person in the field of dentistry whether you’re male or female, our struggles are relatively the same. We all need to provide quality dental care to our patients while creating an enjoyable work environment for our employees.

If you could change something about your practice, business or dental journey what would it be?

There’s nothing I would change, but if I could create a wish list, I’d wish for an extra day a week or at least an extra hour a day. There's never enough time and there’s always something to do.

What advice do you have for aspiring dental students who want to one day have their own practice?

My advice is if that is your goal then do it. Just remember this: you do not need to have every single piece of modern technology when you start. Start small with the basics that you need and with time continue to add and expand.

Here are my takeaways: -Treat (clinically) your patients like they are your mom or best friend -Remember you are running a for profit business (be mindful of your bottom line) -Treat your staff as team members YOU NEED A STRONG TEAM TO WIN -Running a business means you are focused on daily goals to achieve your monthly goal to reach your year goal -Don’t worry about your competitors: there is room for good and bad -At the end of the day you want to go to sleep knowing you did your best and you treated your team with respect -It’s YOUR ship if it floats that’s on you if it sinks that’s on you -You will spend more time in your office than you do your home so treat it like your home….

-Learn to make your bed everyday, wash your dishes at the end of the day, take out ALL the trash daily -If someone comes to your house you say hello and offer them something to drink or a place to sit. (My POINT: make sure your office is as clean as your house and as welcoming) -Working for someone or a company means you have a glass ceiling over your head.

-Working for your self means your only limitation is yourself. We are Not limited.

-Don’t bite off more than you can chew in the beginning. Start out with what you NEED then add and continue to add.

-Have an exit strategy: meaning if you “have to” or “want to” be able to sell and move on -Make sure you are skilled at diagnosing and treatment planning -Your hand skills will improve over time (if not then you are not practicing dentistry) -Take before and after pictures: these are very important for 1-your online portfolio 2-your personal critique of your work 3-proof for insurances

The Impact of Technology in Dentistry: Enhancing Patient Experience and Empowering Dentists Submission by: Dr. Mahrous

Technology has played a crucial role in revolutionizing the field of dentistry, benefiting both patients and practitioners alike. The use of cutting-edge technologies has significantly improved the dental experience for patients while enhancing the predictability of treatment outcomes for dentists. In this article, we will explore various technological advances that have transformed the world of dentistry.

One of the most notable advancements in dentistry is the adoption of intraoral scanners. These devices have replaced the traditional, uncomfortable physical impressions, providing patients with a much more comfortable experience. In addition, these scanners enable dentists to evaluate dental preparations with a level of detail that surpasses visual inspections alone. Another advantage of these scanners is their ability to effortlessly transfer data to labs or other practitioners, eliminating the need for costly shipping. Furthermore, they allow dentists to store diagnostic scans efficiently, saving physical space.

Design software has evolved to become increasingly powerful and user-friendly, allowing dentists to design crowns and restorations with ease. Many software packages now offer smile design simulations for orthodontics and full mouth reconstructions. Moreover, chairside or "same-day" restorations have become increasingly popular, thanks to computer-aided manufacturing, reducing the crown fabrication process from a traditional 10 days to just a few hours. This eliminates the need for patients to wear temporary restorations, known for their susceptibility to loss of retention and fracturing.

Several other technological innovations promise to make dental care more efficient, including digital tooth shade mapping, facial 3D scanning, and virtual articulators and facebows. However, the digital advancement that holds the most promise to revolutionize the dental field is Artificial Intelligence (AI).

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Artificial Intelligence in Dentistry:

AI has rapidly gained popularity in various fields, including dentistry. AI-assisted crown CAD design has significantly improved, reducing the need for extensive adjustments when designing crowns. Radiograph analysis software, such as OverJet and Pearl, are being developed to become the standard of care, capable of detecting decay, bone loss, and inadequate restorations. However, the most promising application of AI lies in treatment planning, a notoriously controversial aspect of dentistry. AI can standardize treatment planning, ensuring consistency and calibration among different dentists.

A good example of treatment planning AI in dentistry is the software called "AiDental." This webbased, free-to-use software offers a solution for standardizing removable partial denture (RPD) design. Dentists can input any configuration of missing teeth, and the software automatically generates an RPD design, following known RPD philosophies. The user can further modify the design and export it to a PDF for laboratory use. Additionally, AiDental is developing "virtual surveying," eliminating the need for traditional surveyors when working with digital models.

In ASDOH AiDental has been adopted in patient and simulation clinics to enhance RPD treatment and education. A unique feature of AiDental that is especially important in the simulation clinic is its “Game Mode” which allows the system to create a random scenario for the student. The Student then is allowed to answer the exercise and the software will then provide a score, feedback on incorrect choices, and a model answer for reference. This has proven to increase student performance on standardized testing particularly since it provides consistent feedback that was sometimes not seen with individual faculty members. The Game mode also allows for each student to train as much as they need, whenever they need. This accessibility makes each student learn at their own pace.

In the ASDOH patient clinics, AiDental is used to generate design proposals for patients to be used for treatment planning complex patient treatment, planning rest seat preparations, and sending to the laboratory for framework fabrication.

Future directions: If you have worked in a dental office before, you might have noticed that most dentists don't use surveyors in their practice. That may be because they have developed "an eye" for where the undercuts are and can " eyeball it" This might not be possible for a recently graduating novice.

Most dental schools teach using the surveyor to determine the location of the undercuts. This is the case because there is no viable alternative. This becomes problematic when a digital workflow is needed because there is no way to survey a digital model unless one buys expensive lab software like 3shape or exocad. Those software systems are lab-based and rarely bought or used by dental practices. Thus, there are no viable options for surveying a digital model in private practice unless you print a model. well not yet anyway...

We are currently Beta testing our new online virtual and free dental surveyor on Aidental which is not only able to survey a scan, but it is also able to detect the missing teeth and undercuts and export them to the Aidental designer so that your design can be made on the fly to be used for tooth preparation and then for designing the final framework.

Final Remarks:

In conclusion, dental technology has transformed the field, benefiting both patients and practitioners. However, it is crucial to remember that while technology can assist and streamline processes, dentists must maintain their expertise and not rely solely on AI to make treatment decisions. The future of dentistry looks promising, but it is essential to ensure a balance between human expertise and technological advancements to avoid a "terminator" or "matrix" scenario.

Hobbies

and

Hand Skills

Submission by: Sandy Shahparast (D3) Creating jewelry, specifically bracelets has been a fulfilling and intricate hobby I have enjoyed doing in my free time for the past few years. This pastime not only allows me to showcase my manual dexterity but it allows me to do something that brings me joy. During the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, my sister and I, like many others, found ourselves looking for activities to keep us busy. In our quest for an engaging pastime, we turned to crafting. Inspired by the numerous do-it-yourself jewelry making tutorials online, we ordered an assortment of beads, strings, and tools from Amazon, setting the stage for our adventure into the world of jewelry creation.

As we began crafting, I quickly discovered the immense need for precision and attention to detail in every step of the process. From selecting the right beads and arranging them in aesthetically pleasing patterns to intricately threading delicate strings through tiny holes, this hobby demanded a high degree of manual dexterity. It was a world where even the slightest miscalculation could result in an imperfect piece.

Interestingly, my passion for creating jewelry has a surprising connection to my interest in dentistry. The meticulous work required in jewelry making shares common ground with the precision demanded in dentistry. In both fields, every move is calculated, and the final outcome hinges on attention to detail, dexterity, and patience.

My skills in jewelry-making have translated into my work in the dental clinic. The ability to handle small, delicate objects with precision has been a valuable asset when practicing dental procedures. Whether it's working on intricate dental models or fine-tuning my hand skills for restorative dentistry, my hobby has prepared me to tackle these tasks with confidence.

In conclusion, my hobby of creating bracelets and chokers during the COVID-19 pandemic not only provided a creative outlet during challenging times but also cultivated my manual dexterity, which has proven to be invaluable as I pursue a career in dentistry. This journey demonstrates how seemingly unrelated interests can converge, enriching one's abilities in unexpected ways.

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Oral Pathology: Telepath, no not the psychic kind Submission by: Dr. Shackelford As a dental student, it’s inevitable that you will receive those texts from family and friends that are random, blurry photos of something odd in their mouth with the caption of: “what do you think this is?”. Do not fear, your Oral Path faculty is here and we’ll help you answer those “curbside” consults with confidence now and in your future practice. A great step forward in that process is a new development between the Teledentistry and Oral Path departments, let’s call it “telepath” for now. Dr. Scott Howell was recently awarded a grant (kudos!) to implement oral pathology into his arsenal of teledentistry services being provided to the community. How are patients and ASDOH students going to benefit from this? Let’s dig a little deeper.

Finding the need: I know what you are all thinking - Phoenix is the fifth largest city in the country, how are there only two Oral Pathologists? It’s shocking. Right?! Due to the paucity of providers in our profession, we need to be proactive about bringing our services to as many patients as possible and to spread the word that pathologists are people too. Now, thanks to Dr. Howell, we can begin to do just that. Dr. Howell’s Public Health rotation has already cultivated a large network of clinics across the state that he provides Teledentistry services. All of these clinics are in areas of extremely high Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA) scores and are in need of dental healthcare.

At this time, patients in these settings may currently experience delay in diagnosis, treatment, or management of pathology lesions due to a lack of triage and accessibility for specialty care. Telepath will work to address those needs by starting small, gauging the need, then providing consultation services when needed helping patients with more efficient and effective care.

Ask not: What telepathology can do for you, but what you can do for telepathology. So how can you help? ASDOH students will likely get a taste of telepath while on rotation with either Public Health Dentistry or Oral Pathology. We are likely going to start off with an asynchronous model. You may be helping collect the critical information needed to aid in diagnosis with Dr. Howell, or you could be interpreting and deriving differentials with treatment options from the path side.

Either way, after you rotate with us you’ll know exactly what to do when you get that lovely photo of your cousin’s tonsils. And always remember, whether you are on an external rotation or down in the clinic, we’re only an email or text away.

Now time for some practice: What pathology do you see?

We’ll post the answers in the next edition.

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Pontics & Politics

By Kiram Tung (D3)

In all honesty, I became a debater for ASDOH because I was guilt-tripped into it by my friend who was in the Pontics and Politics committee. After all, putting myself in the public eye and possibly shaming ASDOH’s reputation sounded like an introvert’s biggest nightmare. However, I have always loved debating and was involved in debate and speech clubs since elementary school, all the way through high school. I also engage in debates with friends and family in my everyday life as I believe debates are stimulating for one’s mind and vital to discuss important controversial topics (or unimportant topics) and delve into the nitty gritty that many people do not want to typically discuss. And so, in the end I decided to give it a shot because it is something I inherently enjoy and think it is important to make people contemplate all sides of an argument.

The topics that were chosen for this year’s Pontics and Politics were intriguing because they are both an essential part of ASDOH’s mission and curriculum. One being about earlier transition into clinic rather than emphasizing didactic courses, and the other about how production-based dentistry is lowering the quality of dentistry. I debated on the first topic about transitioning into clinic earlier rather than emphasizing didactic courses. This was a great topic as learning styles are changing and adapting every day. Traditionally, learning is in a classroom with lectures, the student’s nose in the books, and exams to test their knowledge. However, dentistry is a very technical field and as a result, traditional classroom learning is not fully encompassing in properly developing a dental student’s abilities. One cannot even tell if the career is for them until they learn how to use a handpiece or until they have their first few encounters with a real-life patient. Dentistry is a field that requires not only didactic knowledge and understanding, but also dexterity, artistic abilities, and interpersonal skills. Attempting to find the proper balance between didactic courses and sufficiently exposing dental students to clinical experiences made for a very fun topic to debate about.

Didactic courses are of course important, after all they are the foundation of our knowledge and what we rely on as clinicians for 90 percent of our decisions that we make for our patients. And in today’s educational system where most exams are multiple choice, it can be argued that there is not enough of an emphasis on fully comprehending and retaining the information that we learn, and therefore we as students may provide services below the standard of care if we do not have a proper foundation. On the other hand, studies show that hands-on learning increases retention of information and understanding of a topic far more effectively than sitting in lecture. This is why dental schools want applicants to shadow or work in dental offices before going to dental school. It provides students with context so that they don’t begin dentistry with a completely blank slate. Both sides of this argument have valid points, however, with the current dental education system that exists, I find that earlier transition into clinic is ultimately more important because working in clinic is our reality. Exam scores are not an accurate reflection of our abilities as clinicians, and though they are important, we only have four years to learn the entire field of dentistry. We should be graduating dental school feeling comfortable with general dentistry procedures as our patients will be fully placing their trust in our hands the minute we begin practicing. I am happy to report that my teammates and I did not bring shame to ASDOH’s name and extended our winning streak by another year. It was a great experience and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys debating and wants to have a fun time.

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Mission Trip Diaries

Submission by: Michael Ly (D4)

From the moment I started dental school, I knew one of my goals was to go on a dental mission trip to help communities in need. I have always been passionate about providing care for communities that lack access to care and to be able to do that as a dental student has been incredibly rewarding. During my D3 year, I was able to go on three dental mission trips. One was to Vietnam with an external student organization, another to Mexico which I helped plan with my fellow classmate to focus on dental public health, and finally one to the Rosebud Indian Reservation in South Dakota through the school. These opportunities exist, you just have to seek them. Dr. Mai-Ly was able to set up three separate opportunities for students to come out to the Rosebud Indian Reservation for an entire week.

The first set of students came out to do endodontic therapy on patients that needed it. The second group that came took impressions for edentulous patients. And finally, my team and I went to deliver the digital dentures and crown all the endodontically treated teeth.

On top of that, I was with an amazing group of people: Grace Youn and Mikaela Pope, my two fellow classmates, recently graduated Dr. Taylor Anderson, four Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) residents, Demetrius the dental assistant from AEGD, and the dynamic duo Dr. Mai-Ly and Dr. Chen.

So how did the trip go? Our first day we delivered over 20 digital dentures to the Sioux people in Rosebud.

Working with the AEGD residents and having prior knowledge from the Denture King in CCU2 really helped streamline the delivery process. The next 3 days were dedicated to prepping teeth with endo treatment and milling crowns the same day. By the end of the week, all of us ASDOH students prepped and milled at least 2 crowns and did multiple restorations on the fly.

With the help of Dr. Chen, our preps were beautiful. The crowns milled and sintered by Dr. Mai-Ly and Demetrius fit like a glove.

This trip truly challenges you as a provider to work with the materials at hand. I can recall a patient with several Class III and Class IV decays on her anterior teeth due to drug use that I had to restore. Ideally to approach such an aesthetic case one would want to take models, do a waxup, and plan out the restorations perfectly. I had 2 hours. We are often taught not to perform heroic dentistry, but in situations where communities lack the access to consistent healthcare, does it justify this? Despite feeling mediocre with my restoration, the patient was so elated to have some of her teeth fixed. I just wished we had more time with these people to provide more comprehensive care.

This one week in South Dakota was arguably one of the most exciting and memorable moments in my dental school career.

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ProfessorHighlights

Submission by: Rafael Talasazan (D1)

Every dental student in their D1 year knows that feeling when they walk into the sim clinic for the first time. As they approach their designated workbench, they are overrun with feelings of accomplishment, excitement, and happiness. All those long nights of studying in undergrad, preparing for the DAT, and dental school interviews led up to this very moment, where they would have the opportunity to finally begin the development and sharpening of their operative skills to safely and properly practice dentistry as future dental professionals. I know that I was definitely one of those D1 students. However, all those feelings of excitement and happiness came crashing down when I was administered my first assignment in the sim clinic: the application of the rubber dam. Upon trying to get the rubber dam to successfully stay on, I just couldn’t seem to successfully do it. Every one of my initial attempts failed with the rubber dam repeatedly slipping through my fingers and tearing every single time I tried to stretch it wide enough to put a tooth between it. I felt like I was losing my mind the way I had to keep going to the supply shelf to grab yet another rubber dam to then bring to my bench, mark, and punch holes in. Although it was my first time working in “the mouth” and I should’ve cut myself more slack, I was downtrodden with feelings of stress, anxiety, and the imposter syndrome quickly started to settle in. I began to sweat and my heart rate increased. That is until Dr. Amira Elgreatly noticed my expression of defeat at my workbench. She then asked me what’s wrong and after voicing my frustrations with her, she sat next to me and with tons of patience and compassion, demonstrated the appropriate, hands-on way of inserting a rubber dam and even showed me a couple of tricks to help make the process more efficient and easy. That was the moment when I realized that I was not doomed the way I thought I was. Although practice is key in establishing the hand skills needed to appropriately practice dentistry, educators like Dr. Elgreatly are just as important, if not more, in helping students reach their full potential while they learn all of the many things there are to learn in dental school. I could not be more grateful to have her as a professor in the sim clinic and at ASDOH as a whole.

Submission by: Kiana Okonowski (D3) Although all faculty members have left a long lasting impact on my education at ASDOH, Dr. Creech, the director of pediatric dentistry, has inspired me to make a difference in the lives of children and their families.

For many of the children we see in our clinic, it is their first interaction with the dentist and it is our job to make them feel like family. Dr. Creech first taught the D2 Pediatrics course where we learned about child development, pediatric dentition, space maintainers, and nutrition through interactive projects, cases, and discussions. Then when I started assisting and being a provider in the pediatric clinic, he showed me how to do sealants, nitrous, analyze radiographs, stainless steel crowns, restorations, and techniques for patient management. I also got to work with Dr. Creech in planning the Give Kids A Smile Day where we provide free dental service to children in the community who are unable to afford care. It has inspired me to be the CoPresident during my D3 year and pursue a future career in pediatrics. Dr. Creech’s “flossophy” to pediatric dentistry is that children deserve to be healthy and smile.

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Botox and SPeciAl care dentistry Submission by Dr. Mai-Ly

What is Botox?

Botox is the brand name for an injectable drug made from a substance called botulinum toxin A. It is a neurotoxin that is produced by a bacterium called Clostridium botulinum. And when ingested via food that has been spoiled or contaminated, it can cause botulism, which is highly toxic and deadly. However, when this toxin is purified, it can be used safely as a neurotoxin to block the chemical signal between nerves and muscles that make muscles contract or tighten.

This has many medical benefits by weakening or completely paralyzing specific muscles. This can indirectly relax muscles and in some cases reduce pain for individuals. It is usually provided as an out-patient treatment procedure and can have quick recovery times.

What are the benefits and side effects of Botox?

The most popular medical use of Botox is for cosmetic reasons. Botox, and other brand name injectables like Dysport and Xeomin, can smooth wrinkles and reduce sweating in the cosmetic industry. These injectables have been used to improve the look of moderate to severe wrinkles in the forehead, crow’s feet, and laugh lines. These positive effects are temporary, usually lasting between three to four months. They are dose dependent, and doses differ based on each individual’s clinical presentation and desired outcomes.

These types of injectable treatments can also have possible side effects if not used properly.

These side effects are rare, according to the FDA, but they can range from undesired weakness in the target muscles or generalized weakness, localized injection site pain, or general symptoms like fever, cold or flu like symptoms. Overdose of these injectable treatments can also lead to asymmetrical esthetic outcomes in the face or body, inability to contract targeted muscles, and localized infections of the injection sites. Recipients of these treatments should seek professionals who are properly trained to administer Botox and other injectables.

What else can Botox do?

While many people immediately consider the cosmetic and beauty benefits of Botox, there are many other uses of Botox! Because Botox is a neurotoxin, it has been successfully used in many individuals who have muscle spasticity challenges. Furthermore, it has also shown some success in the head and neck region for correcting asymmetries in the eyes or in overactive oral salivary glands. And lastly, there is a growing number of evidence for the use of Botox as an alternative or adjunct treatment for orofacial pain syndromes.

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Botox and SPeciAl care dentistry Submission by Dr. Mai-Ly

Muscle Spasticity and Dystonia Botox is FDA approved to treat muscle spasticity in adults and certain types of dystonia. Muscle spasticity is often found in people who have cerebral palsy. It is characterized by increased muscle tone, stiff muscles, and difficult walking. Treatment for spasticity often includes physical therapy, medications, and surgery.

When used properly and patients respond appropriately, Botox can be administered directly into the target muscles resulting in improved gait pattern, positioning and range of motion for joints, decreased pain from the stiff muscles, improved tolerance of limb braces, and improved independent use of the body. This all can delay the need for surgery, which means reduced likelihood of other complications of surgery. Dystonia is characterized by involuntary muscle contractions of opposing muscles that may result in twisting and repetitive movements or abnormal postures. Muscle spasticity and dystonia can be found in people who have experienced a stroke, head injuries, spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis, and other muscular and neurological conditions. Botox is typically injected directly into the muscles that need to be relaxed.

Orofacial Pain & Facial Asymmetries Strabismus and migraines are also oral and head areas that can benefit from Botox. Strabismus, also known as crossed eyes, can be treated by injecting Botox to the muscles around the eyes allowing one eye to relax while the opposite muscle can then work more effectively at pulling the eye into the proper position.

This can also lead to reduction of eye spasms, improvement in vision, and even prevent vision loss.

Orofacial pain or dysfunction, especially migraines, that has not responded to other traditional treatment methods can consider Botox as an alternative option. Individuals who experience migraines more than 14 days of the month may feel relief after Botox treatment, which will relax the muscles that constrict blood flow and cause migraines. It also alleviates symptoms associated with migraines and reduces symptoms of chronic and severe tension headaches

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Botox and SPeciAl care dentistry Submission by Dr. Mai-Ly

Overactive Muscles Botox can be used to treat muscles in the body that are overactive, such as an overactive bladder, including urgency incontinence, and overactive salivary glands. When behavioral and exercise therapies as well as medications have not been effective in treating symptoms, Botox injection can yield dramatic improvements in quality of life in women who have not responded well to other traditional treatments. To treat overactive bladder, Botox is injected directly into the bladder to reduce the heightened feeling or need to urinate, and oftentimes, this will also reduce the number of times one would urinate at night. Similarly, in children who have excessive drooling or dribbling, Botox injection may yield a reduction in salivary production in the parotid gland or submandibular glands. To treat overactive saliary glands, Botox is injected directly into the gland and positive results will manifest within two to three weeks. Treating overactive bladder is not within the scope of dentistry, but treating overactive salivary glands can be, depending on each state’s dental practice act.

Where to start if a dentist wants to provide Botox One major advantage that dentists have is that they are already proficient at injections. Therefore, the most important items that remain to master are to have a thorough understanding of anatomy, develop the ability to diagnose and determine the appropriate Botox dosing to achieve the desired results, and know how to manage complications and side effects of Botox.

To master these skills, it is important that the dentist seeks out high quality education regarding Botox. There are different levels of training, and after each level of training, the dentist should identify the appropriate and simply patient cases to treat in order to be successful and develop confidence before going on to severe cases. The local dental society and many established dental organizations will host courses with qualified speakers.

Final Comments The ability to provide Botox for patients as a treatment modality comes with great responsibility, but it also comes with great reward if one diagnoses properly and communicates properly with patients. It truly is a privilege to be a healthcare provider who can remove pain and embarrassment while restoring happiness and confidence. Being a provider who can provide Botox can add to the repertoire of services to help people and the community improve their quality of life and joy.

References Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Botox injections for salivary glands. Retrieved on December 20, 2023, from: https://www.chop.edu/treatments/salivary-gland-botulinum-toxin-type-injection Friedman, BC and Goldman, RD (2011). Use of botulinum toxin A in management of children with cerebral palsy. Can Fam Physician. 57(9): 1006-1073 Lidman G, Nachemson A, Peny-Dahlstrand M, & Himmelmann K. (2015). Botulinum toxin A injections and occupational therapy in children with unilateral spastic cerebral palsy: a randomized controlled trial. 57(8): 754-761 University of California Los Angeles Health. Botox for overactive bladder. Retrieved on December 20, 2023, from: https://www.uclahealth.org/medical-services/womens-pelvichealth/diagnostic-testing-office-services/botox-overactivebladder#:~:text=Botox%20injection%20into%20the%20bladder,been%20effective%20in%20tre ating%20symptoms.

University of Florida Health. Botulinum injections for dystonia. Retrieved on December 20, 2023, from: https://movementdisorders.ufhealth.org/for-patients/clinics/dystonia/botulinumtoxin-injections-for-dystonia/

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