During this three-day conference, attendees will have the opportunity to earn up to 18 hours of C.E. by attending courses hosted by some of the biggest names in the dental profession.
For more information about the conference, turn to page 18.
Register at nodc.org or scan here!
Volume 85, Number 1, Spring 2026
EDITOR
Dr. Brian D. Basinger 818 Pierremont Rd. Shreveport, LA 71106 (318) 869-3020 basingers5@basingerdental.com
Dr. Jeffrey Kerst 8789 Line Ave. Shreveport, LA 71106 (318) 865-1600 jeffreykerst@gmail.com
EDITORIAL BOARD
Dr. Gary Caskey
Dr. Robert Hill
Dr. David Austin
LDA OFFICERS
Dr. Sean Owens President
Dr. Roman Farrar President-Elect
Dr. Mike Luminais
Secretary-Treasurer
Dr. Catherine Hebert Speaker of the House of Delegates
LDA STAFF
Annette B. Droddy Executive Director
Jacob DeBlieux Director of Membership Development
Tiffany Waddell
Director of Accounting
Jeanne McFall
Director of Conference Services
Amber Allen
Executive Assistant
Rebecca Bordelon
Director of Communications and Public Affairs
A Member Publication of the American Association of Dental Editors
JOURNAL of the Louisiana Dental Association (USPS284620) is published quarterly at 818 Pierremont Rd., Shreveport, LA 71106, in March, June, September and December, and is the official publication of the Louisiana Dental Association. Opinions and statements expressed, however, are those of the writer and not necessarily those of the Association. Original articles published herein become the property of this publication. Subscription price is $18 per year for members, $30 per year for non-members and $65 per year for foreign subscribers. Periodicals postage paid at Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and additional mailing offices.
The publication of an advertisement in the LDA Journal is not to be construed as an endorsement or approval by the Louisiana Dental Association or any of its component associations of the product or service being offered.
Postmaster: Send address changes to Louisiana Dental Association, 5637 Bankers Ave., Baton Rouge, LA 70808.
Established in 1878, the Louisiana Dental Association (LDA) is the largest professional health organization for dentists in Louisiana. It is a statewide grassroots organization whose purpose is to promote, advocate, and protect the dental professional. The LDA has over 1,900 members.
2026, LDA.
On the cover: During this threeday conference, attendees will have the opportunity to earn up to 18 hours of C.E. by attending courses hosted by some of the biggest names in the dental profession. For more information about NODC/LDAAS, turn to page 18.
Dental Potpourri
By Dr. Brian Basinger Editor, LDA Journal EDITOR
What do you do when you can’t narrow it down to one topic for an editorial? Write about three different things, of course! Here are several things that affect most, if not all, dentists in the state and are all happening this Spring.
Need C.E.?
The start of a new year means that half of the dentists and hygienists in the state renew their licenses in 2026. How are you coming along with your C.E. requirements? Instead of waiting until the last minute (or the LDA’s Last Chance Seminar) here’s a suggestion that’s pretty close to home: the New Orleans Dental Conference and LDA Annual Session. It’s in, of all places, New Orleans, and will be at a great venue at the Hilton New Orleans Riverside Hotel from April 9-11. You can get up to 18 hours of C.E. and when you’re not in a class, there’s a festival of some sort every weekend in the Spring in NOLA. So, reconnect with old friends, get some quality C.E., and enjoy eating your way around New Orleans this April!
Want Some Facetime?
Do you agree with everything our Louisiana legislature does? Did you know there’s a push again this year to try and eliminate community water fluoridation in our state? Would you like a chance to talk face to face with legislators about any of these issues?
Your entire dental team is invited to attend Dentists' Day at the Legislature on April 22 at the LA State Capitol. Dentists' Day is a grassroots event celebrating the dental profession that offers dentists the opportunity to meet their lawmakers. After visiting with your legislators, don't forget to enjoy the reception with food, music, and fun! Take advantage of this
Dentists' Day (April 22) is a grassroots event celebrating the dental profession that offers dentists the opportunity to meet their lawmakers.
opportunity to make your voice heard in person as we advocate for our profession.
Death and Taxes
As tax season is upon us, you might want to check with your CPA about how some changes at the federal level can benefit your tax situation. At the annual LDA Bowden Conference in January, Chad Olson, ADA Senior Director of State and Government Affairs, spoke to us on a number of topics regarding advocacy. Chad is plugged in to all things dental that are happening in the federal and state governments. There are several tax issues
that directly affect dentistry that were part of the One Big Beautiful Bill that was passed in 2025. A few of the highlights he touched on were the small business income deduction, bonus depreciation for equipment purchases, the pass-through entity tax deduction and the corporate tax rate. Check with a tax professional for guidance, but these are all things that directly affect dentistry and are various ways to help lower your tax bill. What’s not to like about that?!
Dentists’ Day at the Legislature 2024
Since writing my last article, most of my time has been spent working toward meeting all of my clinical requirements and enjoying life now that I have some free time outside of school. Finding out that I passed my written boards after studying for a few months feels like a big weight has been lifted off my shoulders! After spending several months leading up to it studying hard after clinic, now my attention can be fully devoted to making sure I’m always in the clinic and devoting the majority of my energy toward my requirements and rotations. While another big milestone has been achieved, I had little time to relax before having my first oral surgery rotation before Christmas. I haven’t had a ton of opportunities to perform extractions on patients in my mini-clinic, but luckily, our oral surgery rotations provide a wealth of opportunities for us to improve our skills at extracting teeth. We are paired up with another D3 student to do extractions both in the point-and-pull clinic at the school and at UMC alongside the OMFS residents. While in our OMFS rotation, we are given a very high degree of autonomy and are left to solve most troublesome teeth issues on our own by the attending residents, unless they are asked for help of course. When patients arrive at the point-and-pull clinic at school, they are brought back to an operatory where my partner and I talk to the patient about their chief complaint and gather a brief medical history (along with vitals) before deciding which few teeth need to be extracted. After a quick consult with the
Let’s Get Clinical!
By Carson Basinger D3 Dental Student at LSUSD
attending surgeon, treatment begins and before long the painful teeth are removed! Requirement-wise, this year we have to extract a minimum of fifteen teeth to pass our OS course while fifty teeth need to be extracted and recorded to earn an A in the course. Throughout the year, we have two separate week-long OS rotations where sessions are split between UMC extracting teeth on mainly incarcerated patients, and the school’s pointand-pull clinic.
Outside of rotations, I’ve kept busy cutting more crowns, building up heavily broken-down teeth with pin-retained restorations for future crowns, and spending a ton of time in the removable prosthodontics clinic. So far this year, I have not had many chances to work on denture cases due to a lack of cases in my mini clinic to begin the year. However, due to a scarcity of complete denture cases in general at the school, we’re allowed to share cases with classmates, which has provided new opportunities for me to be able to fabricate another set of dentures alongside my classmate at no additional charge to the patient (2 for the price of 1!). As a result of my lack of delivered dentures so far this year, I’ve spent the vast majority of my clinic time
in the removable bay taking impression after impression, making wax rims for maxillomandibular records, and setting teeth. Thankfully, two of my complete denture patients are retired and have been really diligent about coming to get their final dentures as fast as possible!
Outside of school, there’s been a pretty significant amount of time that we have spent on break, both for Christmas and more recently, Mardi Gras. To begin Christmas break, my wife and I took a brief weekend trip to New York City to see all the lights and excitement surrounding the Christmas season. Between seeing the Rockefeller Center tree, the Rockettes performing, the Met, and strolling around Central Park, it’s safe to say we had a great time experiencing the city during the holidays for the first time! After a busy Christmas break surrounded by friends and family, the dental school’s annual Gross Revue (aka dental prom) was our next big event where everyone was able to dress up, socialize, and dance at Generations Hall! It’s always a good time hanging out with my classmates and other students at the school, and this time I got to experience it with my brother being a D1 at LSU! Just a few short weeks after Gross Revue, Salena and I both celebrated our birthdays and soon after geared up for a busy Mardi Gras season! This year, Salena and I decided to wake up bright and early to catch Zulu and Rex on Tuesday for the first time and had such a great time experiencing two of New Orleans’s classic parades and all the craziness associated with them! What a great way to wrap up the Winter before heading into a Spring full of various New Orleans festivals, and school, of course!
Work-life balance is crucial!
Getting to Know Our President-Elect
By Dr. Roman Farrar President-Elect, LDA
As all of our members might not know you, can you tell us a little about your background, education, family and hobbies?
I was born and raised in Shreveport, LA, where I graduated from Loyola College Prep before getting a B.S. in Biology from The University of the South in Sewanee, TN. I graduated from LSU School of Dentistry in 2000 while on a Health Services Scholarship through the United States Navy. After graduation, I received AEGD training at my first duty station, Camp Lejeune, NC. It was my honor to serve in the U.S. Navy, providing dental and oral care for marines and sailors in Kosovo, Djibouti, Kenya, United Arab Emirates, and Iraq, with the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit. After my time in service, I began an endodontic residency at LSU just a few short months before Hurricane Katrina. I received my certificate in endodontics from LSUSD in 2007 and opened my endo practice in Ruston, LA, that same year. My wife, Jennifer, is a 1998 graduate of LSU Dental Hygiene. We have two grown sons, Tate and Beau, and a new daughter-in-law, Morgan.
As a proud veteran, I serve as a Navy Blue & Gold officer in my free time, aiding and advising young men and women who wish to pursue higher education at the United States Naval Academy. I also love spending time in a quiet deer stand on a cold morning, in front of my trusty Big Green Egg grilling for the family, or alongside friends watching football! We are active members of Temple Baptist Church in Ruston.
What inspired you to become an active LDA leader?
I became active on the LDA Board in 2017 after being asked to fill the spot
I think organized dentistry will continue to grow in strength, in numbers, and in effectiveness.
of an outgoing board member, Dr. Kirt Touchstone. Honestly, it began as a temporary commitment with no plans of seeking additional terms, but as the years passed, I became more and more invested in the LDA’s mission to be a voice for all dentists statewide, no matter the location or size of the practice. I had great mentors
in my local component, NELDA, that inspired me to pay it forward on a larger statewide level.
What are your goals for your term as LDA President?
My main goal for my term as president is to continue to advocate for ALL Louisiana dentists. Though we are honored to have 75% of Louisiana dentists as LDA members, we still stand for every Louisiana dentist. For example, all dental Medicaid providers benefit from the LDA’s successful efforts to expand dental Medicaid funding. All dentists benefit from the LDA’s success in moving dental loss ratio transparency legislation forward. All dentists benefit from the convenient and timely C.E. offerings that the LDA curates for
Dr. Farrar with his family. From left to right: Jennifer Farrar, Beau Farrar, Morgan Farrar, Dr. Roman Farrar, and Tate Farrar.
Louisiana dentists. You don’t have to be a member to see the incredible effects of organized dentistry, but we all know that we are stronger together. Nonmembers, if you want to be part of our advocacy for and impact on Louisiana communities, please consider joining the LDA.
What, in your opinion, are the most pressing issues facing dentists right now, and how would you like the LDA to respond to these issues?
Dental insurance reimbursements, fluoride bans, and staffing shortages are all hot topics that we, the LDA, have on our radar. The LDA has and will continue to stay on top of legislation affecting our profession. Insurance companies need to be kept in check by our state legislation ensuring fair reimbursement for services provided. The proven benefits of fluoride are well-documented and our public’s access to it has been threatened recently; LDA is committed to continue fighting for community water fluoridation. Lastly, we need to continue to push for increased enrollment in our state’s dental hygiene as well as EDDA programs.
Which issues are you eager to dive into during your term as president?
There is strength in numbers, so increased membership is high on my priority list. The higher our membership numbers, the louder our voice is. As many LDA presidents have said before, “Membership benefits far outweigh the cost of dues.” Show me a dentist in Louisiana who is not affected by poor insurance reimbursements, fluoride issues, or staffing shortages! These issues affect all of us; therefore, a united front is imperative to combat these professional issues. If you ever hesitate to join or renew your membership in the LDA, reflect on what the LDA already does for dentistry, and imagine how much more we can do together.
What are your predictions for organized dentistry and the overall profession of dentistry? How do you think dentistry will evolve?
I think organized dentistry will continue to grow in strength, in numbers, and in effectiveness. I think we will see an increase in younger dentists’ involvement in organized dentistry. At the national level, I believe the ADA will be forced to listen more closely to the state and components’ concerns, opinions, and recommendations, and to act accordingly by advocating, protecting, and promoting our dental profession.
Dr. Farrar in clinic.
Dr. Farrar after a Lunch and Learn for the LSUSD students.
Dr. Farrar served his country and his community in the United States Navy.
TMedicaid Special Needs Pediatric Dental Incentive Program
By Annette Droddy Executive Director, LDA
hrough the advocacy efforts of the LDA, Dr. Don Donaldson, and the LDA Medicaid Task Force, we secured the funding for the Special Needs Dental Incentive Program in the 2025 Louisiana legislative session.
The Special Needs Pediatric Dental Incentive Program for dental Medicaid providers began Jan. 1, 2026. The first goal of the program is to expand access to care by growing the number of providers trained to treat members with special needs.
Both dental Medicaid managed care companies (MCNA and DentaQuest) are participating in the program. Ultimately, the goals of the program will include training and education and an increase in acceptance of special needs patients seen within the dental office.
The two dental benefit management companies will each reimburse each practice $1,000 for every group dental Medicaid provider who completes qualifying special needs–related continuing education (C.E.) during the measurement period or within the prior 24 months. This means, if you qualify, you could receive $2,000 during this measurement period. For the current period, the course must be taken by June 30, 2026. You may also receive credit for qualifying courses taken within the prior 24 months.
The LA Department of Health has approved the following as the criteria for an approved C.E. course in the SNPDIP.
• In-person or LIVE digital course (such as a live Zoom) that allows for interaction and questions.
• Minimum of 3 credit hours.
• Should be a special needs dental course with one of the following certifications or offered by the following: ADA CERP certified course, AGD PACE certified course, a course offered by the ADA or its state constituent societies or local components.
The following qualifying C.E. courses are available this spring from the LDA:
New Orleans Dental Conference/ LDA Annual Session (In-Person)
• Speaker: Dr. Jacob Dent
• Date/Time: Friday, April 10, 2026; 8-11AM
• Course Title: Becoming a Special Needs Warrior: Equipping Yourself to Treat Patients with Special Needs
• Registration: nodc.org
New Orleans Dental Conference/ LDA Annual Session (In-Person)
• Speaker: Dr. Jacob Dent
• Date/Time: Friday, April 10, 2026; 1-4PM
• Course Title: Understanding Autism: A Dual Perspective
• Registration: nodc.org
Louisiana Dental Association C.E. Course Offering (LIVE VIA ZOOM)
• Speaker: Dr. Victoria Sullivan, M.Ed. Department Chair, Pediatric Dentistry at LSUSD
• Date/Time: Friday, May 1, 2026; 8:30-11:30 AM
• Course Title: Beyond “Too Complex” for every child at every chance: Mastering Special Needs Pediatric Dentistry
• Registration: ladental.org/specialneeds
This incentive program has three main goals:
Goal 1: Expand provider training and education to increase the number of providers trained to treat members with special needs.
Goal 2: Increase acceptance of new special needs members by rewarding initial comprehensive care.
Goal 3: Enhanced compensation for active special needs care to ensure equitable compensation for providers treating both new and established special needs members.
For more information or to download the provider bulletins regarding this program from MCNA and DentaQuest, visit the LDA website at ladental.org and you will see a link in the news section on the home page. You can also visit each of the managed care organizations to view the bulletins in their portals.
Reminder: If you are eligible for this program and would like to participate for the current period, a qualifying course (like the three listed here) must be taken by June 30, 2026.
beyond accounting.
You Benefit From Our Expertise at Every Stage of Your Dental Career. At AG Dental CPAs and Advisors, we are a firm of experienced Certified Public Accountants and Business Advisors with a passion for service. Our team specializes in providing personal attention, accurate data, and proven strategies for success. Our intense focus on the unique needs of dentists and dental practices makes AG Dental CPAs and Advisors a financial partner you can trust.
• Practice Management
• Startup Services/Consulting
• Bookkeeping
• Tax Preparation
• Tax Minimization Techniques
• Retirement Planning
LDA Endorsements and Your Finances
By Dr. William Hadlock President, Louisiana Dental Services, Inc.
Finance probably isn’t the most exciting part of your job. However, it is the foundation for your future, whether or not you own a practice. The LDA endorses a series of trusted companies to not only save you money, but to make your finances more manageable.
Small Business Retirement Programs
401GO specializes in making retirement plans simple, affordable, and modern for small businesses like dental practices. They are a fairly new LDA endorsement, so get connected with them if you haven’t already.
Credit Card Processing
Best Card is a credit card processing provider with great customer service and even better rates. Most recently, dental offices paid an average of 3.48% in credit card processing fees, while the average practice with Best Card paid 2.29%. If you accept credit card payments, please consider upgrading your processor to Best Card.
Patient Financing Program
Cost remains one of the top barriers to treatment acceptance. According to the 2023 Synchrony Dental Lifetime of Care Study: 58% of surveyed consumers expressed that dental care is not affordable. Consider offering CareCredit to your patients as another accessible payment option.
Credit Card
As everyday purchases become more and more expensive, make each dollar count with the rewards from the ADA Mastercard. Earn 3x points on travel purchases and 2x points on gas & groceries with the ADA® Rewards World Elite Mastercard®. Earn 2x points on dental supply purchases with the ADA® Rewards World Elite Business Mastercard®. You’ll always earn 1.5 points on all other purchases with both cards.
Practice Loans
Having served the LSU and Louisiana dental community since 1934, Campus Federal is an established and trusted financial partner for every stage of your life. If you’re looking for knowledgeable staff, competitive rates, flexible terms, and personalized service, Campus Federal Credit Union is the place for you.
Student Loan Refinancing
As a LDA member, you can get personalized, one-on-one guidance and help understanding all your student loan options – including how to qualify for forgiveness – by scheduling your free consultation with a Laurel Road student loan specialist.
Meeting your financial goals can feel overwhelming. We can help. The LDA Member Perks Program offers you great value on goods and services vetted by actual Louisiana dentists from your communities. If you have any questions about these companies or other LDAendorsed companies, give us a call at (225) 926-1986, or email Rebecca@ladental.org. To contact a company directly, take a look at the contact information available at ladental.org/lds.
Who’s Who LDA Endorsements
Sure, the LDA endorses some great companies, but what do they actually do? Find out here!
401GO
Small Business Retirement Programs
ADA Mastercard Credit Card
ADS Lovelace and Associates Practice Transition/Sales Specialists
AHI Travel Travel Planning
AT&T Cellular Services
Best Card Credit Card Processing
Brown & Brown of LA Insurance - Business, Property, Life, & More
Campus Federal Credit Union Practice Loans
CareCredit Patient Financing Program
CGI Digital Practice Marketing and Communications
Compliancy Group
CyraCom
HIPAA & OSHA Compliance
Translation Service
Dentistry On Hold On-Hold Messaging
D-MMEX EasyRefine Scrap Metal Return
Fortress Professional Liability Insurance
GE Appliances Store Appliances
Lands’ End Outfitters
Professional Logo’d Apparel
Laurel Road Student Loan Refinancing
Lenovo Computers & Technology
Mercedes-Benz Vehicles for Purchase or Lease
ODP Business Solutions - Formerly Office Depot Office Products
Meet legislators, learn about the legislative process, and engage with the LDA's lobbying team.
LDA's Upcoming Events
By Jeanne McFall Director of Conference Services, LDA
We have so many events, it’s hard to keep up! Here’s a quick look at all of our upcoming events for the year, and a few extras coming in 2027 and beyond.
Special Needs C.E.
Date: May 1, 2026
Time: 8:30-11:30 AM
Location: LIVE VIA ZOOM, counts toward in-person hours
C.E. Hours: 3 clinical
This course meets the requirements for the new Special Needs Pediatric Dental Medicaid Incentive Program. LDA Special Needs C.E. is tailored for Dental Medicaid providers, anyone can get the C.E. from this course.
Summer Education Conference
Date: June 17-20, 2026
Time: 8:00 AM-Noon each day
Location: Hilton Pensacola Beach
C.E. Hours: Up to 16 clinical
Earn C.E. with beachside views, then enjoy some fun in the sun with family and friends!
Big Bite Fishing Rodeo
Dates:
July 17-18, 2026
Location: Grand Isle Marina, Grand Isle, LA
Enjoy a fun fishing competition with friends and colleagues. May the best angler win!
Save the Date for These Future Events!
Winter C.E. with Character
(Grand Floridian in Disney World) February 7-9, 2027
Kick-Off C.E.
Date: August 28, 2026
Format:
LIVE VIA ZOOM, counts toward in-person hours
C.E. Hours: Up to 4 clinical Get convenient C.E. with a great speaker, from your home, office, or anywhere!
New Orleans Dental Conference and LDA Annual Session April 8-10, 2027
Sip & C.E. in Sonoma Valley
Dates: September 16-18, 2026
Location: Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa
C.E. Credits: Up to 9 clinical Combine professional development with leisure in beautiful Sonoma Valley!
Winter C.E. with Character (Grand Floridian in Disney World) February 27-29, 2028
Pediatric Moderate Sedation Renewal Course
Date: October 2, 2026
Format: LIVE VIA ZOOM, counts toward in-person hours
C.E. Hours: Up to 6 clinical Meet the requirements for a renewal of your moderate pediatric sedation permit for pediatric patients, then apply for your renewal through the LSBD.
Last Chance Seminar
Date: Friday, December 11, 2026
Location: Baton Rouge, LA
C.E. Hours: Up to 7 clinical Take your final opportunity to get C.E. from the LDA in 2026! Stick around for some great door prizes, too.
IA Positive Beginning to a New Year and Highlighting Dental Assistant Duties
By Dr. Kimberly L. Caldwell President, Louisiana State Board of Dentistry
t is with high hopes and great expectations that we have started this year off with a positive attitude and compassion for our profession of dentistry. It is an absolute honor to introduce myself as the new President of the Louisiana State Board of Dentistry for the year 2026. I am Dr. Kimberly Caldwell. I was appointed to the state dental board in January of 2019 and proudly represent District 4, At Large, Seat B. District 4 is compromised of the parishes of Caldwell, East Carroll, Franklin, Jackson, Lincoln, Madison, Morehouse, Ouachita, Richland, Tensas, Union, West Carroll, and the northern portion of LaSalle parish. I am happily serving my second term and taking on this great leadership experience. I have immersed myself in the dental profession since 1993 by starting off as a dental hygienist then becoming a dentist in 2002. After working 33 years in this profession, I truly believe in helping individuals by positively motivating and supporting the rules, laws, and guidelines of the different positions and duties within the dental profession. The board works diligently to support all of the dental professionals within this great state with the ultimate goal of protecting the public. If there are any questions, concerns or issues that arise, the entire dental board staff is available to assist you in your matters of practice guidelines including specific duties of the dental staff, jurisprudence, complaints, infection control, inspections, licensing, continuing education requirements, etc. I strongly encourage open communication to help resolve and ensure a positive outcome.
I would like to take this opportunity to address the duties of the Dental Assistant (DA) and the Expanded Duty Dental Assistant (EDDA) within our
dental offices and dental clinics. First, let me clarify, the Louisiana State Board of Dentistry does not regulate dental assistants; only dentists and dental hygienists are licensed. There are several dental assisting programs throughout this state which provide basic, entry level information for most dental assistants to start within this healthcare profession. Many assistants desire to learn more and want to increase their duties to provide patient care to support the dental environment where they work. The dental board issues certificate confirmations for the Expanded Duty Dental Assistants who have completed an approved Expanded Duty Dental Assistant Course approved by the Board, an accepted BLS course, and have successfully completed an approved radiology course, and have completed an application with the appropriate fee. Authorized duties for dental assistants, who are employed by and work under direct supervision of a licensed, practicing dentist are limited to the following:
1. Serve as dentist’s chairside assistant,
2. Take dental radiographs and intraoral images or photographs,
3. Take and record vital signs: blood pressure, heart rate/pulse and temperature,
4. Apply topical anesthetics, desensitizing agents, fluorides following prophylaxis by the dentist or dental hygienist and nonendodontic oxygenating agents,
5. Chart existing restorations and missing teeth, make preliminary inspections of the mouth and teeth with a mirror and floss only,
6. Give intra-oral care instructions concerning post-op restorative or surgery instructions,
7. Receive removable prostheses for cleaning or repair work,
8. Remove cement from dental restorations, appliances with hand instruments, limited to only the clinical crown,
9. Make dental plaque smears,
10. Place or remove preformed crowns or bands for determining sizes only when recommended by the dentist and only under their direct supervision,
11. Place or remove ligatures, cut and tuck ligatures, remove tension devices and any loose or broken bands or arch wires,
12. Place a removable retaining device in the mouth of a patient,
13. Remove final impressions,
14. Apply and remove rubber dams,
15. Make preliminary study model impressions and opposing study model impressions,
16. Fabricate and remove interim/ temporary crowns or bridges,
17. Condition teeth prior to placement of orthodontic bands or brackets,
18. Place or remove temporary orthodontic separating devices, and
19. Remove sutures, post-extraction dressings and surgical ligature ties.
While the rule for dental assistants sets forth the exclusive activities that they are allowed to perform, the rule for EDDAs takes a different approach. This rule sets forth activities they are NOT allowed to perform, leaving the licensed dentist who is supervising them to delegate to them “any chairside dental act that [the] dentist deems reasonable using sound professional judgment,” as long as the act is reversible and done under the direct supervision of the dentist. Acts that EDDAS are NOT allowed to perform are:
1. Periodontal screening and probing, or subgingival exploration for hard and soft deposits and sulcular irrigations,
2. The removal of calculus, deposits, or accretions from the natural and restored surfaces of teeth or dental implants in the human mouth using hand, ultrasonic, sonic, or air polishing instruments,
3. Root planing or the smoothing and polishing of roughened root surfaces using hand, ultrasonic, or sonic instruments,
4. Placement and removal of antimicrobial agents,
5. Comprehensive examination or diagnosis and treatment planning,
6. A surgical or cutting procedure on hard or soft tissue including laser and micro abrasion reduction of tooth material,
7. The prescription of a drug, medication, or work authorization,
8. The taking of an impression for a final fixed or removable restoration or prosthesis,
9. The final placement and intraoral adjustment of a fixed appliance,
10. The final placement and intraoral or extraoral adjustment of a removable appliance,
11. The making of any intraoral occlusal adjustment,
12. The performance of direct pulp capping or pulpotomy,
13. The placement or finishing of any final restoration,
14. The final placement of orthodontic bands or brackets except in indirect bonding procedures in which the dentist has either performed the final placement of the brackets on the model or when the dentist has written a detailed prescription to the laboratory for placement of the bracket, and
15. The administration of a local anesthetic, parenteral, intravenous (IV), inhalation sedative agent or any general anesthetic agent.
16. All EDDAs are required to display their certificate confirmations in a conspicuous place to be seen by all patients along with the dentists and the dental hygienists employed and/or practicing at that particular location.
In conclusion, it is my desire to encourage ethical dentistry with our dental staff personnel who help us render excellent dental care to all of our patients. I look forward to serving you all as this year’s LSBD President. Thank you to all of the board members and to the dental board staff for your diligence and commitment to this work.
To contact the Louisiana State Board of Dentistry: Call (225) 219-7330 OR visit www.lsbd.org.
The LDA hosts LSBD-approved EDDA and Radiology courses,with discounts for LDA members! Additionally, SBET grants are available for our EDDA courses. To learn more, visit ladental.org/edda and ladental.org/radiographics.
ASpring Reflections from the Dean
By John R. Gallo, III, DDS, MS Dean and Professor, LSUHSC School of Dentistry
s we head toward the end of the academic year, the pace at the LSU School of Dentistry has picked up considerably. Our students are balancing clinical boards, year end exams, and full clinic schedules, making for long days and very full calendars. It is a demanding stretch that requires focus, resilience, and no small amount of stamina. Yet it is also an energizing and rewarding season, as many of our students put the finishing touches on years of rigorous career preparation. I continue to be impressed by their professionalism, commitment to patient care, and ability to rise to the moment during this pivotal time. In true New Orleans fashion, I hope they are also able to steal a little time to enjoy French Quarter Fest or Jazz Fest along the way and reflect on how far they have come.
For our graduating students, this season is especially meaningful. Many are finalizing job placements, evaluating practice opportunities across Louisiana and beyond, or preparing to take the next step through advanced education programs. These transitions mark an important milestone, bringing both excitement and understandable uncertainty. Our faculty and staff work closely with students during this period, offering guidance and encouragement as they navigate these decisions. We remain confident that our graduates are well prepared not only clinically, but also ethically and professionally, to serve their patients and communities with excellence.
At the same time, we are nearing completion of the admissions process for our incoming class. Watching one class prepare to depart while another prepares to arrive is always a powerful reminder of the continuity of our profession and of the responsibility entrusted to us as
dental educators. Many of you reading this newsletter once stood exactly where these students are now, facing similar challenges and transitions at the start of your careers. Your example as practitioners, mentors, employers, and leaders continues to matter more than you may realize. For our students, seeing LSUSD alumni thriving across every corner of dentistry provides inspiration and a tangible sense of what lies ahead.
I hope to see many of you at the New Orleans Dental Conference this year. The LSU School of Dentistry will have a table in the exhibit hall, and I encourage you to stop by and visit with us. Reconnecting with alumni is always a highlight for our team. We value the opportunity to hear how your practices are doing, learn about the evolving needs of the profession, and share updates from campus. These conversations strengthen our partnership with the Louisiana Dental Association and often lead to mentorship opportunities, guest lectures, and other forms of engagement that directly benefit our students. Your continued involvement helps ensure that our curriculum and clinical training remain closely aligned with the realities of practice.
You have likely heard me mention our long anticipated building renovations, and I am pleased to report that construction is scheduled to begin in May. Auditorium C will be the first space addressed, marking an important step forward in modernizing our facilities. While these projects require patience, they represent a meaningful investment in the future of dental education in our state. Updated learning environments will better support contemporary teaching methods, increased collaboration, and the integration of new technologies.
We are grateful for the support of our alumni and the dental community as we undertake this work, and I look forward to welcoming you back to campus once renovations are complete so you can experience these improvements firsthand.
Thank you for your continued support of the LSU School of Dentistry and for the care you provide to patients across Louisiana. Our connection to the Louisiana dental community, and especially to our alumni, remains one of our greatest strengths. Your commitment to service, professional excellence, and lifelong learning reflects the values of this institution and helps ensure a strong future for dentistry in our state.
LDA members, your mentorship can be a game-changer for new graduates. To join the LDA’s Dentist Directory for Students, visit ladental.org/dds, or flip to page 31!
STalking to Your Certified Financial Planner™ During Market Volatility
By Chad Olivier CEO®,CEPA, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™
tock market values are constantly changing. Some days markets move higher, other days they move lower, and at times they fluctuate multiple times within a single day. This normal movement is known as market volatility. The more dramatic the swings—up or down—the higher the level of volatility.
While volatility can feel unsettling, it’s important to remember that it is not new. Market cycles have always included periods of uncertainty. When working with a Certified Financial Planner™, your financial plan should be intentionally designed to withstand these inevitable market shifts. Your planner’s role is to monitor conditions, remain disciplined, and make thoughtful adjustments when appropriate.
During volatile periods, asking the right questions can lead to productive, reassuring conversations. Below are several considerations to help guide those discussions—starting with questions to ask yourself.
1. Ask yourself: How much risk am I comfortable with?
At Olivier Group, we guide clients through a risk-tolerance assessment to understand how much investment risk they can comfortably accept. Risk tolerance is not static—it can evolve based on career stage, family responsibilities, financial goals, and major life events. Gaining clarity around your comfort level with risk is a foundational step in building and maintaining a successful long-term financial plan.
2. Ask your Certified Financial Planner™: What is the current state of my plan?
Your planner can provide reports showing how current market conditions
are affecting your portfolio. This can be an ideal time to step back and review your broader financial picture. How do today’s market conditions impact your plan in both the short and long term? Are retirement assumptions still appropriate? Should spending or savings strategies be adjusted?
This conversation also opens the door to proactive tax planning, portfolio alignment, and identifying opportunities—such as using investment losses to help offset taxable gains.
3. Ask your Certified Financial Planner™: How is my portfolio designed to navigate current market conditions?
Diversification matters in all market environments, but it can become especially important during periods of volatility. Your Certified Financial Planner™ can explain how your portfolio is structured and how periodic rebalancing helps keep it aligned with your long-term objectives.
Because tax implications often factor into rebalancing decisions, professional guidance is particularly valuable.
4. Ask your Certified Financial Planner™: How do changing interest rates and inflation affect my investment strategy?
This discussion should include a review of different asset classes and how they respond to changing economic conditions. Certain investments have historically performed better during inflationary periods, while interest rate trends tend to unfold over longer timeframes. For this reason, many portfolios can benefit from diversification beyond traditional stocks and bonds.
When interest rates and inflation are low, investment decisions require a different lens. Low rates can reduce
the appeal of conservative options such as cash and bonds, while low inflation can quietly erode purchasing power if portfolios become overly cautious. In these environments, long-term growth assets and tax-efficient strategies often play a more meaningful role in preserving and growing real wealth.
For dentists, these periods may also present opportunities to refinance debt, strategically deploy excess cash, and rebalance portfolios with a focus on long-term goals rather than short-term market noise. We believe discipline and intentional planning remain essential.
Market volatility affects every investor differently. Those with a long-term perspective who stay invested and remain disciplined tend to navigate uncertainty more calmly. For individuals who find market swings more difficult to tolerate, alternative strategies and additional diversification may help reduce overall portfolio volatility.
We believe the most important step is maintaining informed, proactive communication. At Olivier Group, we stand alongside our clients through all market conditions, providing objective guidance and thoughtful planning so they can move forward with confidence—no matter what the markets may bring.
The opinions contained in this material are those of the author, and not a recommendation or solicitation to buy or sell investment products. This information is from sources believed to be reliable, but CWM, LLC and Cetera Wealth Services, LLC, cannot guarantee or represent that it is accurate or complete. A diversified portfolio does not assure a profit or protect against loss in a declining market.
Securities offered through Cetera Wealth Services, LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through CWM, LLC, an SEC Registered Investment Advisor. Cetera is under separate ownership from any other named entity. Olivier Group | 4609 Bluebonnet Blvd, Ste A, Baton Rouge, LA 70809 | (225) 757-9484
HIt's almost time for NODC/LDAAS!
By Dr. Kay Jordan General Chair of the 2025 NODC/LDA Annual Session Committee
ello and happy Spring! Hopefully by now you have registered (along with your staff members, spouses, and lab techs) for the April 9-11 New Orleans Dental Conference/LDA Annual Session to be held at the newly-renovated Hilton New Orleans Riverside. You still have time to join us for a meeting to be remembered! You will find courses from almost every discipline including CBCT technology, endo, perio, oral pathology, artificial intelligence, digital workflow, BLS, pharmacology, prosthodontics, pediatric dentistry, special needs dentistry, smile makeovers, cybersecurity, practice management, and more. You can earn up to 18 C.E. credit hours and network with friends and colleagues. While exploring the exhibit hall on Thursday after your courses, you will be treated to our first ever Happy Hour Reception sponsored by the LSU School of Dentistry. You must be registered to visit the exhibit hall!
This year, we are happy to announce Tom Viola, R. Ph., C.C.P., as the recipient of our prestigious and coveted Normalee Ward Distinguished Speaker Award. Most of us remember Normalee as larger than life and as the glue that held the New Orleans Dental Association and its members together for over 35 years. She was heavily involved in making our dental conference a success, and she gladly worked overtime to ensure that no stone was left unturned. We are all proud to have known Normalee and to have been touched by her heart, spirit, and dedication. Normalee passed away August 15, 2017, and we miss her to this day.
When Tom was informed that he was the recipient of the Distinguished Speaker Award, he was, in his words, “blown away”
with gratitude and humility for this extra special honor.
Tom also professed his admiration for the people, culture, and food of New Orleans and Louisiana in general, so much so that he will soon be relocating to his new home in North Louisiana. He is proud to be called an “honorary Cajun.” Bienvenue en Louisiane, Tom Viola!
Tom is a frequent lecturer at our conference and always entertains us with practical information for dentists’ everyday use in the field of pharmacology. You can still register for his Saturday courses at nodc.org.
Finally, thanks to all NODC/LDAAS committee members involved in making this meeting come to fruition, as well as NODA members, LDA staff, and NODA Executive Director Andrew Hale. See you in April!
Tom Viola, R. Ph., C.C.P.
MEET THE NODC SPEAKERS
VISIT NODC.ORG/SPEAKERS TO SEE THE FULL LIST
Dr. Robin Ainsworth
Topics: Forensic Dentistry and Dental Identification
Dr. Kathryn Alderman
Topic: AI in Dentistry
Dr. Eugene Antenucci
Topics: 2D, CBCT, and CAD/CAM Integration
Dr. John Barksdale
Topics: CBCT Technology, Implants
Dr. James Braun
Topic: Direct Composite and All Ceramic Restorations
Topics: Advanced Prevention and Cosmetic Dentistry
Dr. Emily Letran
Topics: Patient Retention and Team Engagement
Dr. Richard Madow
Topics: Patient Experience and Practice Management
Dr. Stanley Malamed
Topics: Pain Control and Patient Safety
Dr. Brian Novy
Topics: Preventative Dentistry and Caries
Iggy Rosales, Paramedic, RN
Topics: CPR, AED (BLS) Training, and Office Emergencies
Dr. Victoria Sullivan
Topics: Pediatric Dentistry, Private Practice
Tom Viola, R., Ph., C.C.P.
Topics: Dental Outcomes with Cannabis Use and with Diabetes Mellitus
Dr. Arthur Volker
Topics: Minimally-Invasive
Dentistry and Anterior Composite Techniques
Meet Your Component Presidents
Acadiana President
Dr. Seth DeJean
My original career was in civil engineering; I practiced engineering for seven years before deciding to pursue dentistry. I subsequently entered dental school, where my primary focus was balancing the demands of my education with the responsibilities of my growing family. Following dental school, I completed a residency program in pediatric dentistry and returned to Louisiana, where I have since been actively involved in private practice. Through daily clinical experience, I developed a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by both dental professionals and patients, ranging from access to care and reimbursement issues to regulatory and workforce concerns. My interest in organized dentistry grew organically once I began practicing, as I recognized the importance of advocacy, collaboration, and leadership in addressing these ongoing challenges. I am enthusiastic about becoming more involved with our local dental association to help foster strong professional relationships, support our colleagues, and ensure that the voices of dentists and the patients we serve are effectively represented. I look forward to contributing my time, experience, and perspective to strengthening our professional community and advancing the future of dentistry in Acadiana as well as Louisiana.
Bayou President
Dr. Jake Ellender
I got involved shortly after completing my orthodontic residency and after going to a few of my component’s meetings. I felt that we had a very strong and involved membership and I wanted to help out where I could and make our district the best it could be! To me, it means to be a part of a family of colleagues and friends that share a common goal of improving our profession and patient care. I sought out a leadership role to have the ability to make lasting changes and improvements for my district. A few of my goals as president are to provide the best C.E. at our meetings to help improve patient care in our area, increase membership numbers for our component, and to continue to make the Bayou District Dental Association one of the strongest components in the state.
Central President
Dr. Kim Dukes
I became involved in organized dentistry through ADEA in dental school. After graduation in 2009, I joined my father, a general dentist, at my first component meeting.
Organized dentistry has affected me on a personal level through relationships and mentorships with local dentists. The relationships cultivated through mutual respect during monthly meetings have increased my ability to care for my patients. The Louisiana Dental Association’s motto of “Promote, Advocate, and Protect” is what I would like to emulate during my second year of presidency. It is an honor to follow the path of other dentists in advocating for better patient care and protecting our profession.
I am excited to bring engaging continuing education to the Central Component. During the year, I would like to promote the CLDA with a partnership with the local foster care closet during a holiday toy drive and showing the community that we care for them, not just as their dentists.
Greater Baton Rouge President
Dr. Daniel Gonzales
I joined the Louisiana Dental Association immediately after graduating from dental school in 2019 because I believed in the value of staying connected to organized dentistry from the very beginning of my career. Early on, I began attending Greater Baton Rouge Component meetings and quickly realized how impactful they were—not just for earning continuing education, but for building relationships with fellow dentists in our community. I genuinely enjoyed connecting with colleagues, sharing experiences, networking, and learning practical information that directly benefited my practice. Those experiences inspired me to step into a leadership role within the Greater Baton Rouge Component to help continue its success and encourage more colleagues to get involved. Organized dentistry plays a vital role in advocacy, professional growth, mentorship, and protecting the future of our profession. I am proud to be part of an organization that strengthens our collective voice and fosters meaningful connections among dentists across Louisiana.
NODA President
Dr. Claudia Cavallino
I attended Louisiana State University School of Dentistry in New Orleans, where I received my Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. I went on to complete a pediatric dental residency at LSU and Children’s Hospital in New Orleans and have been practicing pediatric dentistry since 2004. I completed board certification in 2012.
In addition to providing dental care for children, teens, and special needs patients, I lecture to LSU dental students in a part-time faculty appointment. I also serve as the pediatric dentist on the Cleft Palate/Craniofacial teams at Children’s Hospital and Ochsner Hospital and belong to the American Cleft Palate-Craniofacial
Association. I was appointed by the governor to serve on the Louisiana State Board of Dentistry.
After being selected to participate in the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry’s Leadership Institute in 2016, I received my certificate in 2018.
Northeast President Dr. Mason Liles
During my time in dental school, I was involved in both the American Student Dental Association (ASDA) and the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), and I remain committed to continuing my engagement with both organizations as I advance in my career. My journey into leadership began similarly to many others in my position with encouragement from colleagues within the chapter and a recognition of an opportunity to contribute. Once I became involved, I realized the significant impact that active participation can have on our profession and the importance of maintaining that engagement.
As president of the Northeast Louisiana Dental Association (NELDA), one of my primary goals is to strengthen our chapter by increasing membership while maintaining one of the highest recurring memberships in the state. Additionally, I am committed to providing high-quality continuing education opportunities that benefit our local dental community. By fostering a collaborative and supportive environment, I aim to promote professional growth and ensure the long-term success of our association.
Northlake President
Dr. Joshua Brandner
I have been involved in organized dentistry in some capacity since dental school. Whether it was through student organizations, ACGME, or national meeting attendance, networking and collaboration have been a continued focus throughout my professional career. I joined our local group as a way to get to know my colleagues and it has been a natural progression over the past five years. I look forward to serving the Northlake Dental Association by increasing membership, improving meeting attendance, and promoting the collaborative effort to have a positive impact on our community.
Northwest President Dr. Colten Ducote
I have been involved in organized dentistry since my time in dental school. Serving as both class president and student government president afforded me opportunities to be involved in dentistry on the local and state level. After graduating residency in 2020, I joined the Northwest Component of the LDA to network with colleagues and get involved in the community. As an officer in our component, the past few years have been eye-opening as I learn the benefits organized dentistry provides our profession. I’ve learned that our impact extends
far beyond our individual practices. Organized dentistry allows us to promote access to care, provide continuing education, support public health initiatives and mentor the next generation of dentists. As president of the Northwest Dental Association, I look forward to continuing our strong membership presence within the LDA and strengthen our community outreach.
Southwest President Dr. Austin O’Quinn
I am truly grateful for the opportunity to serve the incredible group of dentists in the Southwest District as your president. It is an honor to represent such a dedicated and talented community of professionals. I look forward to working closely with the members of our district, my fellow officers, and the LDA to promote and protect our profession. Organized dentistry is an invaluable asset, empowering us to practice in a way that best serves both our patients and our colleagues in an ever-changing landscape. I am proud to be part of this important work and am excited to see all that we can accomplish together in the coming year.
Acadiana District Dental Association
Bayou District Dental Association
Central District Dental Association
Greater Baton Rouge District Dental Association
New Orleans District Dental Association
Northeast District Dental Association
Northlake District Dental Association
Northwest District Dental Association
Southwest District Dental Association
At Dental Lifeline Network, your time and skills matter.
Volunteering
LAD PAC
We aim to educate and empower dentists to participate in the legislative process to address their legislative priorities. Your contribution directly funds these efforts.
Aesthetic Dissatisfaction Alleged: Strong Communication and Documentation Supported Care
By Elie M. Ferneini, DMD, MD, MHS, MBA, FACS, FACD Fortress Patient Safety and Risk Management Committee Member
This Closed Claim Summary is based on an actual claim and has been adapted for educational purposes.
A67-year-old female patient presented to our insured after a three-year hiatus from dental treatment. During the initial exam, dental neglect and previous dental work were noted including severe caries, bone loss on the right side, extractions at #1-6, and an existing bridge at #12-14. Within the first month the patient had four treatment-planning appointments with our insured. During these appointments, our insured focused on patient education and managing expectations. The dentist shared three possible treatment plans and thoroughly documented them in the patient’s chart.
the accompanying illustrations created during the treatment planning appointments.
A periodontist placed 3.5mm diameter implants at #4 and #6 due to the lack of adequate remaining bone in the buccallingual plane with no complications. Our insured completed the implant-supported bridge at #4-6. The patient had three more visits over the next two months. At the try-in, the insured documented in the chart that she was “ecstatic” about the outcome. The patient called the insured’s office the next day to complain after her friends told her the bridge looked terrible due to the slanted dentition. Our insured reminded her of their previous discussions and her positive feelings at the try-in. At her one-week follow-up appointment, the patient explained the specifics of her dissatisfaction. The insured made minor adjustments to #6 and recontoured a third of the incisal/occlusal of #5 and 6. Although the insured offered to adjust #14 to help with the occlusion, the patient refused.
During the discussion, our insured recommended the second option and explained why. While the third option, a three-unit implant-supported bridge was presented, the insured discouraged this option noting it could lead to aesthetic dissatisfaction due to the likelihood of a slanted dentition. The future aesthetic concern was shared through lengthy explanation, physical comparisons, and illustrations created by the dentist. Despite this, the patient opted to proceed with the three-unit implant supported bridge and signed the appropriate informed consent forms and
When the patient returned to the periodontist who placed the implants, they shared their positive assessment of the bridge and associated work. However, at the third appointment post-bridge with our insured, the patient refused any adjustments and complained about poor aesthetics and a painful bite. The patient threatened to get a second opinion and a lawyer. Five weeks later, the patient filed a lawsuit alleging improper restorative work and poor aesthetic outcome. She represented herself and was unable to secure the necessary dental expert to support her claim. The judge dismissed the small claim lawsuit.
This Closed Claim Summary is an excellent example of thorough communication and documentation. The insured saw the patient for multiple consultation appointments, explained the treatment options, and was upfront about their concerns with the patient’s chosen treatment plan. If this small claim lawsuit
had made it further in the legal process, the in-depth chart notes about interactions with the patient would have provided a strong defense to refute the allegations.
Risk Management Mitigation Strategies
• Patient education is an essential part of the treatment process. Varied modalities of education (discussion, drawings, additional planning sessions, previous documented patient cases, etc.) help to demonstrate your efforts to communicate with your patient.
• Documenting any communication with patients throughout the treatment process and encouraging opinions from other providers help to show your genuine concern and willingness to support your patient and the treatment plan they chose.
Fortress offers downloadable informed consent forms, clinical documents, and patient education materials. Two related resources offered online include: “Crown and Bridge” Informed Consent Form and “Dental Implant” Patient Education.
To download, log in to dds4dds.com and navigate to “Informed Consent and Documents.”
Fortress also offers On-Demand courses, including these topic-related courses: “Challenging Patient Conversations”, “The Power of Why: Patient Education”, and “Communication Strategies to Reduce Dental Practice Risk.”
To complete a course, log in to dds4dds.com and navigate to “Online Courses.”
Fortress Insurance Company, an LDA-endorsed company, is a professional liability insurance company owned and operated by dentists. Fortress only insures dentists and knows firsthand how to protect you and your practice. Your local Fortress agents are Stormy Blair and Grace Boggs, of Brown and Brown. Contact Stormy or Grace at 985-674-3886 or Stormy.Blair@bbrown.com or grace.boggs@bbrown.com with any insurance questions.
Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal, medical, or professional advice. You are responsible for evaluating the usefulness of the information. Fortress disclaims any warranties, expressed or implied, as to the quality, accuracy, or completeness of the information provided. Laws vary by location. This newsletter is not intended to serve as legal advice or to establish any standard of care. Seek legal advice from counsel in your state.
PARAGON is proud to be a part of these successful dental transitions in your area.
Codi B. Echols, D.D.S. & Kevin J. Finley, D.D.S. have entered into a Progressive Ownership Program West Monroe, Louisiana
James Davis Schneider, D.M.D. has acquired the practice of Keith J. Luminais, Jr., D.D.S. Bogalusa, Louisiana
To start your relationship with PARAGON Call: 866.898.1867 • Email: info@paragon.us.com • paragon.us.com
Your local PARAGON dental transition consultant Bob Huston
Practices are unique and constantly evolving.
Rely on Us for customized solutions that empower optimal patient & practice outcomes.
Looking for solutions?
Contact your Henry Schein Sales Consultant or visit: www.henryschein.com/relyonus We had the
Our members earned C.E., then absolutely shredded the slopes with friends, family, and staff!
We just love the dental community and the folks involved. It's so fun to see our dentists leveling up their skills, whether that's for treatment planning in the office or trying short turns on the slopes!
FEATURED PRACTICE
This unique, 100% fee for service practice on the North shore collected $2.6M in 2025. This five op practice has top-of- the-line, state-ofthe-art equipment. The real-estate also available.
Call me to schedule a visit or to discuss this fantastic opportunity.
PRACTICES FOR
Carencro
J u n e 1 7 - 2 0 , 2 0 2 6 J u n e 1 7 - 2 0 , 2 0 2 6 Register Here Register Here
Sip & C.E. in Sonoma Valley
Wednesday–Friday: Breakfast at 7:30 a.m., course from 8:00–11:00 a.m. (3 credit hours each day)
After each session, enjoy free time for the rest of the day.
Dr. Justin Jellin, ART
Dr. Noëlle M. Santucci, MA, RDH
Dr. David Balhoff
SeptemberDates:16-18, 2026
MissionFairmontLocation:Sonoma Inn & Spa 2026
Thank you to everyone who attended the
LSUSD job fair!
Over 20 practices from across Louisiana gathered at the dental school to recruit soon-to-be dentists and dental hygienists!
We saw students distributing resumes, making connections with practicing dentists, and exploring what life after dental school could look like!
To our LDA members: thank you for showing up for these students! We hope you made some connections and maybe met a future partner or team member!
LDA EDDA Courses
April 23-25, 2026 Shreveport, LA
April 30-May 2, 2026 Gonzales, LA
June 4-6, 2026
New Orleans, LA
LDA
July 9-11, 2026 Lafayette, LA
August 20-22, 2026 Gonzales, LA
September 24-26, 2026 Lafayette, LA
October 8-10, 2026 New Orleans, LA
November 5-7, 2026 Gonzales, LA
December 3-5, 2026 New Orleans, LA
A radiographic certification is a mandatory part of an LSBD EDDA application!
$50 - LDA members
$125 - non-LDA members
$25 - (for members) each additional online course
$50 - (for non-members) each additional online course
The LDA's “Radiographic Techniques and Safety: Introduction to the X-ray and Safety Precautions” is available through the LDA and approved by the Louisiana State Board of Dentistry. The course can be used for in-office education of dental assistants, counts for C.E. credit, and saves you time and money compared to classroom instruction.
To order, visit ladental.org or call (800) 388-6642 or (225) 926-1986.
LDA What’s Going On? Component Happenings from Around the State
The LSU School of Dentistry D3 Class attended the Krewe d’État parade to support their professor, Dr. Donald Bennett (NODA), who served as lieutenant in this year’s parade.
Past board member Dr. David Baughman (Bayou) and LDA Past-President Dr. Steve Morgan (Bayou) enjoying Mardi Gras in Houma, LA!
Send us some component news! Scan the QR code or visit ladental.org/componentnews.
Dr. Douglas Cross (NODA) won the 2025 Health Access Hero Award for his work in improving teledentistry and dental shortages in rural areas.
Dr. Rich Corley (Southwest) was the Mardi Gras King of the Villa Maria Retirement Center. He just turned 95!
Dr. Jeffrey Kerst (Northwest), his wife, Dr. Allison Kerst, and their son, Robert, making the most of the January freeze.
Dr. Doug Talley (Northwest) and Dr. Jay Sikes (Northwest) enjoyed the Endymion Extravaganza in the Superdome after riding in Endymion’s 60th anniversary parade. From left to right: Kathy Sikes, Dr. Jay Sikes, Amy Talley, Dr. Doug Talley.
ASDA Bayou Northwest
NODA
You Are Invited
Dentists' Day at the Legislature April 22, 2026
Louisiana dentists, staff, and dental students are invited to attend Dentists' Day at the Legislature. Dentists' Day is a grassroots event celebrating the dental profession that offers dentists the opportunity to meet their lawmakers and learn about the legislative process.
2 PM
Briefings at State Library of Louisiana (Walking distance from the Capitol) 701 N 4th St. Baton Rouge, LA 70802 4:30 PM
Visit House and Senate chambers and leave notes for legislators 5:30 PM or upon adjournment
Reception for dentists, guests, and legislators at Pentagon Barracks
Register at ladental.org/dentistsday Event times may vary
LDA
Continuing Education and LDA Events Calendar
For information on a specific event, contact the event’s provider.
To list your course in the next calendar, contact the LDA office at (225) 926-1986. Check ladental.org/statewidecalendar and ladental.org/events for the most up-to-date listings.
Event: New Orleans Dental Conference/ LDA Annual Session
Date: April 9-11, 2026
Location: New Orleans, Louisiana
Provider: New Orleans Dental Association
Registration: nodc.org
Event: Special Needs C.E.
Date: May 1, 2026
Location: LIVE VIA ZOOM, counts toward in-person hours
Event: Winter C.E. - Walt Disney World Date: February 7-9, 2027
Location: Walt Disney World, Orlando, FL
Provider: Louisiana Dental Association
Details: ladental.org/character, (225) 926-1986
Event: New Orleans Dental Conference Date: April 8-10, 2027
Location: New Orleans, LA
Provider: New Orleans Dental Association
Details: nodc.org
Event: Winter C.E. - Walt Disney World Date: February 27-29, 2028
Location: Walt Disney World, Orlando, FL
Provider: Louisiana Dental Association
For a list of all LDA C.E. events, including Winter C.E. through 2028, visit www.ladental.org/events
1584 sq. ft. dental office for sale in Hammond, LA.
Asking $525,000. Includes 4 equipped operatories + 1 unequipped op., patient base furnishings, inventory, management software, + building. This is a 30 year established practice. Contact email: stevenraymond714@yahoo.com Contact phone: (985) 542-8484
FFS practice located in Slidell, LA for sale.
Production approx. $650k (2 days a week average). Real estate available for purchase. Please email ddsslidell711@gmail.com for more information.
1800 Sq. Ft. Four-Operatory Dental Practice for Sale in
Baton Rouge
Asking price is $325,000. Owner is retiring and preference is for a complete transition 60-90 days after agreement. This is a turn key opportunity including equipment, computers, furnishings, inventory, and management/digital software. The lease on the office space is transferable. Contact the dentist's accountant for more information by email: jguerin@appleguerin.com.
Part-Time Experienced Dentist Opportunity in Mandeville, LA
At Grand Family Dentistry, we take pride in serving our community with exceptional dental care in a warm and inviting atmosphere. We are seeking a skilled and motivated dentist to join our team and contribute to our mission of delivering outstanding oral health care to our patients. The ideal candidate will possess excellent clinical skills, a passion for patient education, and a commitment to building lasting relationships with our community. Responsibilities include performing dental examinations, diagnosing and treating oral health conditions, developing treatment plans, and educating patients on preventive care practices.
Requirements:
• Doctorate of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctorate of Dental Medicine (DMD)
• Valid dental license in the state of Louisiana
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Dedication to providing compassionate care and fostering a positive patient experience
Benefits:
• Competitive compensation package with opportunities for advancement
• Flexible scheduling options to accommodate work-life balance
• Supportive work environment with a collaborative team approach
• Access to advanced dental technology and continuing education opportunities
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and more
Grand Family Dentistry
Mandeville, LA 70471
Email: careers@grandfamilydentalcare.com
Website: https://www.grandfamilydentistry.com/
We are seeking a qualified Associate Pediatric Dentist to join our practice in the New Orleans area.
The ideal candidate will hold a DDS or DMD degree with a pediatric dentistry specialty and possess an active Louisiana dental license.
Our practice provides a modern, professional environment with advanced technology, a supportive team , and opportunities for ongoing professional growth. We offer competitive compensation and benefits, including a $1,200 daily rate and/or 33% of collections.
Interested candidates may submit their resume and cover letter to nolapediatricdentistry@gmail.com.
We look forward to welcoming a dedicated professional committed to delivering exceptional pediatric dental care. Classified Advertising Online Go
For all classified advertising, payment is required in advance and ads will be placed on the LDA website on the next possible business day after payment is received. Make checks payable to the Journal of the Louisiana Dental Association. Placement of a classified ad up to 30 words is $30 for LDA members and $55 for non-LDA members. For each additional word, LDA members pay $0.15 and non-LDA members pay $0.30. Ads will remain on the LDA website for three months and will appear in one issue of the LDA Journal. A photo with an ad is an additional $50.
For more information or to place a classified ad, contact Rebecca Bordelon at rebecca@ladental.org or (225) 926-1986.
a photo to your classified ad for just $50!
The LDA endorses 30 companies that provide members-only savings on high-quality goods and services that dentists need.
$26,000 Saved!
The LDA staff convinced me to give TDSC a try, and now I’ve been a customer since 2022. I ran my numbers for last year and realized that I saved $26,000 in 12 months!
Dr. Nelson Daly, LDA Member since 1995
$2,500 saved!
I began using TDSC recently and have saved $2,500 in 3 months! TDSC carries the same brands of restorative materials, burs, disposables, etc. that I already use, just at a discounted rate.
Dr. Erin Seale, LDA Member since 2019
$6,700 SAVED! *
*Dental practices save $6,795 on average annually with Best Card.
I had a merchant advocate review my use of Best Card. He let me know that Best Card is truly providing the best value possible for the price. If you only use one LDA-endorsed company, consider Best Card!
Dr. Ryan Walker, LDA Member since 2006
$8,000 saved!
All LDA members can save at least $8,000 per year just by utilizing the five LDA-Endorsed companies below. YOUR NAME HERE Your Photo Here
LDA Component News
We want to feature you in the LDA Journal! Send us photos and descriptions of:
Career milestones, Fun vacations, Mardi Gras events, Football tailgates, Dental office shenanigans, Awards you earned, Volunteer work, and Anything else!
Email Rebecca@ladental.org or fill out this form.
TheLast Word
Annette Droddy LDA Executive Director
Rebecca Bordelon LDA Director of Communications & Public Affairs
The 2026 Louisiana Legislative Session is happening now! Try out these three things to get involved with our advocacy:
When we email you a legislative alert/call to action, respond ASAP! Sending a message to your legislators takes just a few seconds and makes all the difference in our work.
If you’re available to testify with us in committee hearings at the LA State Capitol in Baton Rouge, email annette@ladental.org.
If you’re available to participate in phone, Zoom, or in-person interviews about dental legislation, email rebecca@ladental.org.
