Word of Mouth

Word of Mouth

The Minnesota Dental Association Supports its Members through Innovative New Initiatives.

While all associations work for the betterment of their members, very few can say that they literally help put a smile on someone’s face. The Minnesota Dental Association supports its 3,000 dentist members who do just that every day, caring for the oral health of patients of all ages across the state. Through educational and professional development, distributing the latest news, and regulatory and legislative advocacy, MDA ensures its members are well equipped to care for the smiles of Minnesotans.

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“At MDA, advocacy is a priority,” Executive Director Carmelo Cinqueonce said. “We envision the three pillars of our organization as representation, communication, and education.”

MDA takes pride in listening to its members and providing what they need. That’s how their Star of the North Meeting has grown to become one of the ten largest dental conventions in the country. This past April, over 8,000 attendees descended on St. Paul to learn about the latest breakthroughs in dental services and technology, complete continuing education credits, and network with colleagues in the industry.

In March of 2018, the MDA launched an online marketplace named Hesy-Re to serve the exclusive needs of dentists. Named after the ancient Egyptian who is known as history’s earliest recorded dentist, the site allows members to post jobs and buy and sell dental practices and dental equipment. With 70-80 posts a month to the site, it has been a successful endeavor for the MDA. The MDA has been working to expand the program to other state dental societies such as South Dakota, New Mexico, and Washington, DC.

“Patients come from as far awayas neighboring states and line up48-72 hours in advance for theopportunity to participate.”

Last year, the association introduced MDA Supply Source, an online storefront that allows members to buy dental supplies at a discount rate. It also rolled out Total CE (compliance and education) this past spring. Twice a year, the program provides dentists with a one-day opportunity to learn what they need to know for regulatory compliance.

“We have a lot of irons in the fire, but we’re committed to meeting the unique needs of our members,” Cinqueonce said.

Some of the MDA’s more public and passionate work happens through its charitable Foundation. On the first Friday and Saturday of February, many member dentists open their doors to offer free dental care to children in need through the Give Kids a Smile program.

Every other year, the Minnesota Mission of Mercy offers free dental care to those who, for one reason or another, have difficulty getting the care they need.

Through grants and volunteers in the MDA membership, dental industry, and community, nearly 2,000 patients arrive at a temporary clinic (most recently held at the Minneapolis Convention Center) for cleanings, root canals, extractions, and other dental work.

“We have over 1,000 wonderful volunteers who donate their time and expertise to this cause,” Cinqueonce explained. “Patients come from as far away as neighboring states and line up 48-72 hours in advance for the opportunity to participate.”

When a dentist joins the MDA, they gain a tripartite membership with representation not only at the state level, but at the local district and national levels as well. MDA has collaborative relationships with each level, from providing support for email communication to sending a legislative team to DC every year to advocate for legislative priorities.

The MDA works hand-in-hand with other state dental associations as well. Members of the Wisconsin Dental Association help promote the MDA’s Star of the North Meeting in exchange for discounted registration fees. The Midwestern Dental Officers Conference convenes in early August every year as a chance for leadership to exchange best practices and discuss issues related to dentistry.

No matter what project the MDA is working on, the association makes sure to keep member dentists and the public apprised of its activities through periodic newsletters and its wellrespected regional journal.

“All of our work is done by nine full-time staff members, plus other contractors as necessary,” Cinqueonce said. “Just like our members, we can do a lot with a little.”

To learn more about the MDA and its activities, visit www.mndental.org.

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