LDA Journal Summer 2026

JOURNAL VOL. 85, NO. 2 • SUMMER 2026

LDA

J O U R N A L O F T H E LO U I S I A N A D E N TA L A S S O C I AT I O N

THE 2026 LDA AWARDS

DR. BYRON GANUCHEAU

DR. JOHN LITTLE

Distinguished Service Award

Distinguished Service Award

DR. JAMES A. LEITHEAD, JR.

DR. MASON COPELAND LILES

Humanitarian Service Award

New Dentist Award

Meet the 2026 award recipients on page 20.

FORTRESS MEMBER

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Lake District Family Dentistry Alexandria, LA

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Contents Editorial

2

From Day One to DDS

3

LDA President

4

LDA Legislative Session Report

5

LDA Member Perks

8

Director of Conference Services

10

Louisiana State Board of Dentistry

12

LSU Health School of Dentistry

14

Wealth Management

16

Amber Allen Executive Assistant

NODC/LDAAS

18

Rebecca Bordelon Director of Communications and Public Affairs

2026 LDA Award Recipients

20

Dental Lifeline Network

22

LDA Member Perks Feature: Exploring the Potential Risks of Emerging Artificial Intelligence Use in Healthcare

24

Feature: Managing Antiplatelet and Anticoagulant Therapy in Dentoalveolar Surgery: A Practical Guide for the Dental Team

26

LDA Member Perks Feature: The Hidden Risks of Selling Too Late

28

ASDA

32

What’s Going On? (Component News)

34

Upcoming Events

36

Classifieds

37

The Last Word

40

Volume 85, Number 2, Summer 2026

EDITOR

Dr. Brian D. Basinger 818 Pierremont Rd. Shreveport, LA 71106 (318) 869-3020 basingers5@basingerdental.com

MANAGING EDITOR Rebecca Bordelon LDA Headquarters (225) 926-1986 rebecca@ladental.org www.ladental.org

EDITORIAL BOARD Dr. Gary Caskey Dr. Robert Hill Dr. David Austin Dr. Jeffrey Kerst

LDA STAFF

Annette B. Droddy Executive Director Jacob DeBlieux Director of Membership Development Tiffany Waddell Director of Accounting Jeanne McFall Director of Conference Services

LDA OFFICERS Dr. Roman Farrar President

Dr. Mike Luminais President-Elect Dr. Vincent DiLeo, Jr. Secretary-Treasurer Dr. Catherine Hebert Speaker of the House of Delegates

A Member Publication of the American Association of Dental Editors

JOURNAL of the Louisiana Dental Association (USPS284620) is published quarterly at 5637 Bankers Ave., Baton Rouge, LA 70808, 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.

On the cover: This year, the LDA presented two Distinguished Service Awards, one Humanitarian Award, and one New Dentist Award to these deserving LDA members from across the state. Meet them on pages 20-21!

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.

Copyright 2026, LDA.

LDA members can view the Journal online at www.ladental.org.

EDITOR

Time Keeps on Slippin’, Slippin’, Slippin’…

By Dr. Brian Basinger Editor, LDA Journal

A

wake-up call started a couple of months ago. I received a small package in the mail from the ADA. Curious, I opened the package to find a letter and a small rectangular box.

I started with the letter to see what this could be about. I read the first few sentences and then, confused, I reread them. It was congratulating me on 30 years of ADA membership and becoming a Life Member.

I smiled as I shook my head, wondering who at the headquarters in Chicago had made this mistake. Then I started doing the math and my smile turned to a bit of a frown when I realized that in fact, a mistake had not been made. It has actually been 30 years since I graduated from LSUSD and became an ADA member. Somewhat surprised and slightly disgusted at this point, I opened the box to reveal a nice lapel pin commemorating the occasion.

A few weeks later, I attended the LDA annual session as I have for many years now.

There were the usual speeches (very good, not too long) and awards (well-deserved), but one award type in particular caught my attention. According to the LDA website, “The Distinguished Service Award is the highest honor bestowed by the LDA and is presented annually to individual members who have exemplified the highest standards of professional conduct in dentistry and have made extraordinary contributions in organized dentistry and their community.”

One of the requirements for this award is a minimum of 25 years of membership in organized dentistry. Well, one of my dental school classmates was a recipient this year.

I used to think that award was for the old guys. Wake-up call #2.

Just last month, I joyfully attended the med school graduation of my daughter-inlaw from LSUHSC in New Orleans. Talk about flashback city. The graduation still occurs in conjunction with the dental school graduation. It still happens in Lakefront

2 LDA Journal • Summer 2026

My ADA Life Membership pin and a note from the ADA.

So, the lesson?

Enjoy the time you’ve been given; it goes faster than you think.

Arena. I think I heard the same speeches the last time I was in that building for my own graduation 30 years ago. Hopefully I’ll get to experience it all again next year, as my son Carson graduates from dental school. Wakeup call #3.

Apparently, it takes multiple attempts to get me to realize something others around me have probably already recognized: I’m getting old! I’ve also realized that the time we have is often shorter than we think it’s going to be. I believe there may be a lesson for me here. Scripture says: “Come now, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will go into such and such a town and spend a year there and trade and

make a profit’— yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes.” ( James 4:13-14) So, the lesson? Enjoy the time you’ve been given; it goes faster than you think.

Make a positive impact on those you meet and use your God-given abilities to leave the world a little better than you found it. And we better get on that soon because, as I’ve been reminded lately, time keeps on slippin’ into the future.

Check out the LDA Instagram and Facebook accounts to see our annual recognition of LDA members who are celebrating 5,10, 20, 30, 40, 60, 65, or 70 years of LDA membership! For our LDA members celebrating 25 or 50 years, keep an eye out for them in the Winter 2026 issue of the Journal.

By Carson Basinger D4 Dental Student at LSUSD

S

ince my last article, life has stayed busy inside and outside of school as I’ve continued working toward finishing all my clinical requirements while trying to enjoy the little bit of free time that comes with the latter part of third year.

Over the last few months, I’ve spent most of my time in clinic delivering more crowns, completing additional rotations, and slowly checking requirements off the list. Between rotations in pediatrics and periodontics, I also had the opportunity to observe numerous grafting procedures and implant placements which was really interesting to see from the surgical side of dentistry. It’s been rewarding finally feeling more comfortable moving independently through treatment planning and procedures compared to where I was at the beginning of the year.

By the middle of April, I had completed the majority of my clinical requirements and found myself anxiously waiting on what felt like the longest denture case imaginable to finally wrap up. Somehow, every possible delay seemed to happen with this one case.

Between illness, scheduling difficulties, and complications following the patient’s implant uncovering procedure (significant pain and swelling for several weeks due to underlying health conditions affecting wound healing), it felt like every time we got close to delivery another obstacle appeared.

After spending so much time in removable clinic this year taking impressions, adjusting wax rims, setting teeth, and troubleshooting every possible issue, finally reaching the finish line on the case felt incredibly satisfying. Cases like these definitely teach patience just as much as they teach dentistry.

Outside of school, life has been moving just as quickly. One of the biggest highlights of the Spring was Match Day for my wife,

Above: Me, Salena, and my parents at Salena’s Med School Graduation. Left: Salena and I with our new rescue dog, Rocco. Below: We were all smiles before our death-defying sled ride!

Salena, on March 20, when she officially matched into Internal Medicine at LSU here in New Orleans! It was such an exciting and rewarding moment after seeing how hard she worked throughout medical school, and it’s been really special knowing we’ll both still be here in New Orleans together for the next phase of training.

Not long after Match Day, we took advantage of a little bit of freedom before her residency begins and traveled to Europe for about a week and a half. We visited Amsterdam, Brussels, Strasbourg, and the Swiss Alps, and it honestly ended up being one of the coolest trips we’ve ever taken.

Amsterdam was beautiful in the Spring, especially the tulips blooming at Keukenhof.

In Switzerland, we got to experience real

FROM DAY ONE TO DDS

3 down, 1 to go!

snow in the Alps and even tried sledding for the first time. While it initially sounded relaxing, we quickly realized flying down snowy mountain paths at high speeds near cliff faces and snow banks was a little more thrilling—and potentially dangerous—than expected! Thankfully we survived without injury and came away with some incredible memories and views along the way.

Back in New Orleans, Spring festival season was in full swing shortly after we returned home. We spent time out at Jazz Fest where we got to see Tyler Childers and Jason Isbell perform, which was definitely a highlight. Since we now know we’ll be in New Orleans for at least three more years with Salena’s residency, we decided to move to a little bit bigger place and one where we could have a pet. So, now we have a new addition to the family, a dog named Rocco that we adopted from the Louisiana SPCA. He’s a 2-year-old lab mix who has already managed to keep us very entertained and significantly busier around the house. To cap off an already eventful Spring, Salena officially graduated from medical school, making the last few months feel like one big celebration mixed in with clinic and travel.

Now, before fourth year clinic ramps up in June and July, we’re squeezing in a little more traveling while we still can. Next up is a trip to Denver for a concert followed by a visit to Sequoia National Park and Yosemite for camping with the best man from our wedding. It should be a great way to wrap up the summer before heading back into what will likely be a very busy and fast-paced fourth year. Between finishing requirements, traveling, and all of the major life events happening recently, this Spring has been one to remember!

LDA Journal • Summer 2026 3

PRESIDENT

Top 5 Things I Wish I Had Known When I First Opened My Dental Practice

By Dr. Roman Farrar President, LDA

I

often get asked, “Doc, would you do all of this over again if you knew then what you know now?” My answer has not changed over the years, but I have modified it. My answer is “yes” I would do it all over again BUT, I tell folks that I have learned more from my failures then my successes.

Opening a dental practice is exciting — and humbling. After years of clinical training, the realities of running a business teach lessons no textbook fully covers. Here are my top five lessons I wish I’d learned before I first opened my doors. Hopefully, this list has some practical takeaways for recent graduates as well as my fellow dentists.

1. Cash flow is the priority, not production: Clinical productivity is satisfying, but a profitable-looking schedule doesn’t guarantee stability. Expect variable revenue early on — insurance delays (and the subsequent appeals), no-shows, etc. There will always be months that are extremely busy and weeks that are terribly slow. It’s the nature of the beast.

I’d suggest tracking cash flow weekly, not just monthly. I know it is difficult, especially in this economy, but try to build a 3–6-month operating reserve before opening. Consider setting up a line of equity at the bank, especially if you cannot set aside operating reserve. If you can afford it, offering patient financing is a good way to support treatment plan acceptance and reduce cancellations. The LDA Member Perks program endorses CareCredit as a patient financing program if you can’t do it in the office. Visit www.ladental.org/LDS for more info.

2. Hiring is more important than tech or equipment: We are important to the overall health of our patients, but our staff is imperative to the overall satisfaction of our patients.

A well-trained, pleasant team makes all the difference in your office. We train staff on clinical skills, but attitude, character, and

4 LDA Journal • Summer 2026

work ethic are critical, and harder to teach, in a well-run (and profitable) office. Since maternity leave, sickness, family deaths, etc. all happen unexpectedly, I’ve also found it important to invest in cross-training so the practice functions smoothly during absences.

In my office, we also try to have regular team meetings where staff can provide feedback and suggestions. Team outings are important, too. If appropriate for your office, bring your staff to the New Orleans Dental Conference/ LDA Annual Session for team bonding and continuing education. The next conference is April 8-10, 2027. The LDA also offers lots of fun events that I am certain your team would love, including a beach trip, a Disney trip, a ski trip, and a wine tour event (will be a Kentucky bourbon event in 2027).

3. Develop programs and systems that work for everyone: As soon as you can, standardize procedures such as patient intake, consults, sterilization, emergency triage, and day-today financial needs/concerns. Make sure you document protocols and use checklists, which is especially helpful when a staff person is on leave. Make sure your whole team is trained on your practice management system. You want everyone to have answers, not just you or an office manager.

4. Market all the time, not just when business is slow: Unless you are the only dentist within a 100 mile radius, relying solely on referrals and location is risky. I suggest creating a simple marketing plan with measurable goals, like new patient registrations or new followers on social media. Make sure you have a good website and patient appointment reminder software too. Be sure to follow up with happy patients and ask for patient reviews. If you want someone to manage your website and reviews, you can save up to 70% on LDA-endorsed ProSites solutions!

5. Protect your time and work efficiently: As a business owner and a clinician, you’ll be pulled in many directions. Work hard, but make sure you have time for a personal life. Going back to hiring good employees, a good practice manager who can outsource as needed (payroll, accounting, etc.) is very important to the work-life balance. Protecting your time prevents burnout and ensures you can provide consistent, high-quality care. I have always said that I work to live, not live to work! Your LDA membership helps provide you with the information and the resources to make your work life easier.

On subsequent pages of this issue, you’ll see more information about how the LDA is protecting our interests at the LA State Capitol. The members’ only Regulations, Laws, and Guidelines page on the LDA website, www.ladental.org, also has a lot of resources you may need when setting up or reviewing your office processes.

Bonus tip: I’ll throw in a freebie just because I believe in the impact of LDA membership.

Build a network of trusted advisors: The best place to build that network is within organized dentistry. What accountant should you use? Do you need an attorney to review a contract? Where do you get your best savings on dental products? I encourage you to go to your local component meetings and ask these questions there. These are your people. They are going through or have gone through the same things you have and they can help. It is the best networking available to you.

With the right foundation, the practice you build reflects the quality of care you want to provide for years to come. I encourage you to learn these lessons like I did and know that the LDA is always here to help you through each phase of your career!

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR/CGA

Report from the 2026 Regular Session of the Legislature LDA Successful in Amending Virtual Credit Card Law

T

he 2026 regular session of the Louisiana Legislature adjourned sine die on Monday, June 1, after passing a FY 2027 (July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027) budget of $46 billion. Session’s end was relatively calm compared to the weeks leading up to June 1. After the U.S. Supreme Court declared Louisiana’s congressional map an unconstitutional racial gerrymander, the Legislature redrew the six U.S. House districts and returned the map design to what largely had been in place before the current redistricting cycle began five years ago.

Here are a few bills of interest related to dentistry (all actions are as of June 10): As predicted, Sen. Mike Fesi filed another fluoride ban bill, SB 4. It is with great exultation that we announce: there is NO fluoride ban in Louisiana! When the bill reached Senate Health and Welfare, Senators on that committee opted to take it into their own hands and amend the bill. In good news, the bill was no longer a fluoride BAN. Unfortunately, on the Senate floor, it was amended to make it much too easy to get fluoride out of a water system.

After meeting with the bill’s author and the House Health and Welfare legislators, Sen. Fesi and the LDA agreed on supporting an amendment to SB4 that requires a signed petition from 15% of registered voters in a community to have an election on community water fluoridation. In addition, the mandate from 2008 is still in effect.

This mandate states that when funding exists, each LA public water system that has at least five thousand service connections shall maintain the level of fluoride in its water system in the optimal range for the purpose of protecting the dental health of state residents.

SB 192 (now Act 360) by Sen. Franklin Foil Passed: In recent years, insurance companies have started paying healthcare providers using electronic

Annette Droddy Executive Director, LDA

Dr. Gizelle Richard Chair, Council on Government Affairs

The Dentists’ Day 2026 attendees after a legislative briefing at the State Library of Louisiana.

Dr. Trey Carlton (Central) discusses a bill with Scott Kirkpatrick of K2 Advocacy.

payments, including virtual credit cards.

Like any other credit card transaction, the merchant receiving the payment incurs a processing fee, which can range from 2.5-5% on the underlying charge.

The National Council of Insurance Legislators (NCOIL) studied this concept and agreed on model legislation. The LDA passed that legislation in 2019. It allowed

dental offices to opt out of the virtual credit card system and choose alternate methods of payment. After monitoring its success, NCOIL amended the model in 2025 to suggest that dentists automatically are opted out of virtual credit card payments and they have to opt in if they choose to accept that method of payment.

Since the LDA had received notice from dentists that several dental insurance companies were requiring a yearly opt-out of the virtual credit cards, SB 192’s filing was a response made with NCOIL’s updated model legislation. The Governor has signed SB 192. The provisions of this Act shall become operative on January 1, 2027, and apply to any policy, contract, program, or dental coverage plan issued, amended, or renewed on or after January 1, 2027. Any policy, contract, or dental coverage plan in effect prior to January 1, 2027, shall convert to conform to the provisions of this Act no later than January 1, 2028.

SB 155 by Sen. Kirk Talbot Passed: The LDA worked with the Cancer Advocacy LDA Journal • Summer 2026 5

Dental and cancer care advocates gather after a successful hearing on SB 155.

Dr. Gizelle Richard (NODA) prepares a message for a legislator at LDA Dentists’ Day at the Legislature.

Sen. Kirk Talbot with LDA member Dr. Elizabeth Hiertzler (GBR) and CAGLA Scientific Advisory Board member and practicing medical oncologist, Dr. Patrick Stagg,

Group of Louisiana (CAGLA) to pass legislation that would provide insurance coverage for treatment clearance and basic extractions that are medically necessary for an insured diagnosed with cancer. Because the Affordable Care Act requires new state financial coverage for insurance companies, the LDA and CAGLA had to go to both Health and Welfare committees and both Senate Finance and House Appropriations.

The Governor has signed this bill and it is Act 743.

HB 2 (Capital Outlay Budget): The LSU Health Sciences Center New Orleans requested our support on a request for an additional $20 million that would help them complete their dental school renovations. That budget item has remained in HB 2, has been signed by the President of the Senate, and is now awaiting the Governor’s signature.

Medicaid Update: Through the combined efforts of Dr. Don Donaldson, the Medicaid Task Force, and DAP-PAC, the LA Department of Health budget will 6 LDA Journal • Summer 2026

LDA Executive Director Annette Droddy, practicing oncologist Dr. Januario E. Castro, SB 155 author Sen. Kirk Talbot, CAGLA President and Board Chair Chadwick Landry, and LDA member Dr. Michael Boudreaux (Bayou) after testifying in a committee hearing.

continue to fund the Dental Incentive Payment Program (DIPP) and the Special Needs Dental Incentive Payment Program (SNDIPP).

HB 222 by Rep. Stephanie Berault Passed: The Louisiana Medicaid program shall cover a dental procedure for a Medicaid enrollee if the procedure is medically necessary for the patient to be cleared to receive another Medicaidcovered medical procedure. The LA Department of Health shall promulgate all necessary rules and regulations. The bill has been signed by the Governor – Act 629.

HB 475 by Rep. Stephanie Berault Passed: A licensed healthcare professional shall verbally disclose the use of any recording device, software, or service to a patient before recording any part of an appointment or treatment to be transcribed by artificial intelligence. The Governor has signed this bill – Act 649.

HB 1192 by Rep. Chad Boyer Passed: Creates the “Louisiana Dental Hygienists’ Association” special prestige license plate.

The Governor has signed this bill – Act 712.

Throughout this legislative session, the LDA lobbying team monitored approximately 50 bills that impact dentistry, and monitored others as legislators amended them.

Again, it is through the support of the LDA’s contact dentist network that the LDA was able to successfully support (or oppose or amend, as necessary) bills that would greatly impact to the profession.

It is more important than ever to let the LDA know if you are a friend, relative, or dentist of an elected official. We need contact dentists! It makes all the difference during the legislative session when we have contact dentists for each legislator on important committees impacting dentistry such as finance, health and welfare, and insurance.

Dr. Aaron Mangum (Central), Rep. Emily Chenevert, Dr. Sally Daly (GBR), and Dr. Nelson Daly (GBR).

Sen. Thomas Pressly and Dr. Jack O’Neil (Northwest).

LDA member and LSUSD Dean Dr. John Gallo (NODA), LSUSD staff, and outgoing ASDA advocacy chair and LSUSD student Kade Edenfield discuss the legislative session.

SB 192 (virtual credit card bill) author Senator Franklin Foil and LDA Executive Director Annette Droddy.

Rep. Beryl Amedee with LDA PastPresident Dr. Stephen Morgan (Bayou).

Dr. William Grand (Northlake), Rep. Kim Carver, Council on Government Affairs Member Dr. Chantal Causin (Northlake), and LAD-PAC Chair Dr. Trey Carlton (Central).

Dr. Billy Hall (GBR) and Rep. Dixon McMakin.

Rep. Francis Thompson and Medicaid Task Force Chair and DAP-PAC Treasurer Dr. Don Donaldson (NODA).

CGA Chair Dr. Gizelle Richard (NODA) and Sen. Gary Carter.

LAD-PAC Chair Dr. Trey Carlton (Central) and Rep. Ed Murray.

LDA Journal • Summer 2026 7

LDA MEMBER PERKS

Meet Our New Endorsement: HandpiecePro

By Dr. William Hadlock President, Louisiana Dental Services, Inc.

W

e are pleased to announce that the LDA now endorses HandpiecePro, a sales, service, and repair solution for dental professionals in Mississippi, Louisiana, and Tennessee since 1997. Offering fast turnaround times (90% of orders returned one day after receipt) and excellent customer service, this organization is a great option for all your dental handpiece service needs.

LDA members get free estimates, phone call or text consultations, and a 10% discount on high speed handpiece repairs.

Contact HandpiecePro at (601) 594-6274, or by scanning the QR code on this page!

Meet the HandpiecePro Leadership: Steve Lymberis, CEO The CEO is Steve Lymberis, a small-business owner for more than 45 years. He understands completely what a business is all about and wants to meet your dental office handpiece requirements courteously and efficiently.

His training, education, and experience rank him as one of the best and most knowledgeable in the industry.

Slow Speed Motor Repair Complete overhaul with a 6-month warranty Midwest Shorty/Rhino/Tru-Torq KaVo (all models) Star Titan I, II, III W&H NSK Micromite Nakamura Dental

Dr. Marshall Hawkins Dr. Marshall Hawkins is the HandpiecePro Dental Liaison. He is a wetgloved dentist with 45 years of experience as a general dentist and a hospital staff dentist.

He knows EXACTLY what it is like to depend on quality handpiece repairs. Dr. Hawkins is one of Handpiece Pro’s first clients & has been a part of the team for 20+ years.

Air Scaler Service 6-month warranty on all Scaler repairs/ replacements & FREE estimates Star KaVo Midwest NSK

Take a look at the variety of services HandpiecePro offers:

High Speed Repair Complete turbine replacement with a 6-month warranty starting at $95+ Midwest (all models) KaVo (all models) Lares NSK (most models) Star (all models) W&H/Adec (ceramic) Sirona/Patterson Racer (ceramic) MK-Dent (all models) Impact Air (surgical)

Head Attachment Service Star/KaVo/Midwest/W&H/NSK starting at $75+ (includes replacement of gears, bearings, springs, clean lube and full performance test)

Nose Cone/Contra Angle Service Star/KaVo/Midwest/W&H/NSK starting at $75+ (includes replacement of gears, bearings, springs, clean lube and full performance test)

To visit the HandpiecePro website, scan here!

8 LDA Journal • Summer 2026

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

HIPAA & OSHA Compliance

Dentistry On Hold

On-Hold Messaging

D-MMEX EasyRefine

Scrap Metal Return

Fortress

Professional Liability Insurance

GE Appliances Store

Appliances

HandpiecePro

Dental Handpiece Sales, Service, and Repair

KeyBank

Student Loan Refinancing

Lands’ End Outfitters

Professional Logo’d Apparel

Lenovo

Computers & Technology

Mercedes-Benz

Vehicles for Purchase or Lease

ODP Business Solutions - Formerly Office Depot

Office Products

Propio

Translation Service

ProSites

Websites, Marketing, & Patient Communications

Prosperident

Embezzlement Protection

Sharps Medical Waste Services

Medical Waste Disposal Services

TDSC - The Dentists Supply Company

Dental Supplies & Small Equipment

Threadfellows

Branded Apparel

Time Traveler Backups

Computer Backup & Disaster Recovery

UPS

Shipping

Volvo

Vehicles

EXCLUSIVE SAVINGS AND VALUE FOR ALL LDA MEMBERS For more information about all LDA-endorsed companies, visit ladental.org/LDS. LDA Journal • Summer 2026 9

COUNCIL ON DENTAL EDUCATION

Work Hard, Vacation Smarter!

By Jeanne McFall Director of Conference Services, LDA

The LDA’s travel C.E. offers dental professionals the opportunity to combine continuing education with relaxation, networking, and quality time away from the office. Whether it’s earning a large number of C.E. hours in one trip, bringing along family, or connecting with colleagues in a more laid-back setting, these meetings have become increasingly popular for good reason. We asked several dentists to share what they enjoy most about travel C.E. experiences and why they continue to come back year after year! Here’s what they had to say:

Family Time!

Summer Conferen

ce 2023

ce 2024 Summer Conferen

I have been attending the LDA’s Summer Education Conference in Pensacola, Beach, Florida for the last several years and as a matter of fact, it has become our Summer family vacation spot.

What a great way to get the family together at a beautiful Florida beach and have the entire trip be tax deductible on the office account. The hotel is awesome and with the very reduced LDA rate, the trip is more economical. While there, we usually catch a dolphin cruise with the grandkids as well as drop into several of the local food and drink establishments.

Also, the C.E. courses are always very informative, flexible, and entertaining. I highly recommend you take advantage of this opportunity to get great C.E. AND enjoy a beach vacation with the family!

Dr. Billy Hall

General Dentist in Baton Rouge LDA member since 2009 Summer C onference

My family loves traveling for LDA C.E. meetings! I especially enjoy reconnecting with my dental school classmates and our families in a relaxed environment where we can reminisce on the days at LSUSD! Attending the C.E. lectures allows my colleagues and I to exchange fresh ideas and practical solutions that we can implement in our practices back home, while also renewing enthusiasm for our dental professions. Networking through fun activities and connecting our families nurtures a sense of community that enriches both our professional and personal lives. I can’t wait until the next one!

2025

Networking and Spending Time with Fellow Dental School Grads

Dr. Leslie Whittington

General Dentist in Abbeville LDA member since 2011

10 LDA Journal • Summer 2026

Ski in r C.E. & A Winte 2026 LD Montana

Big Sky,

2023 LDA Winter C.E

& Ski in Keystone, Colorado

Flexible C.E. Schedule

Taking morning continuing education courses with the LDA has been a gamechanger. The early start to my day helps me to prioritize productivity, and it leaves the rest of the day open to enjoy the beautiful scenery and activities that the area has to offer. At the recent Sip & CE in Napa Valley, CA, I brought my wife and a few of our friends. I used the morning to connect with amazing professionals while earning C.E. credits, and then we had plenty of time to explore wineries, take in the breathtaking views from a hot air balloon, enjoy some shopping, and unwind at the end of the day at the many restaurants nearby.

Dr. Paul Perry

Orthodontist in Sulphur LDA member since 1990 2025 Sip & C.E.

2025 Sip & C.E.

in Napa Valley

in Napa Valley

Tax Deductible Trip

For many dentists, continuing education (C.E.) trips can be tax-deductible because the IRS allows deductions for education that maintains or improves skills required in an existing profession. Dental C.E. courses help practitioners stay current on clinical techniques, technology, compliance requirements, and licensure obligations directly related to practicing dentistry.

When the primary purpose of the trip is business education, deductible expenses may include: • Course registration fees • Airfare or transportation costs • Hotel costs • Taxi, rideshare, and mileage related to the course • 50% of qualifying meal expenses

PREMIER

EVENTS PARTNERS

To qualify, the education must relate to the dentist’s current practice and cannot be primarily for personal vacation or to qualify for a new profession.

Documentation to retain includes the course purpose, course materials, agendas, receipts, and proof of attendance.

These deductions can provide significant tax savings while allowing dentists to invest in advanced training, improve patient care, and meet professional licensing requirements.

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AG Dental CPAs & Advisors LDA Events Partner since 2017

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LDA Journal • Summer 2026 11

LOUISIANA STATE BOARD OF DENTISTRY

H

Reviewing the Guidelines of the Profession of Dental Hygiene

By Dr. Kimberly L. Caldwell President, Louisiana State Board of Dentistry

ello, Summertime! Congratulations to all the new recent graduates! It is now time for new positive experiences in life and for new professional careers to start. In my initial article, I highlighted dental assistant duties; of course, it is only natural in this article to review the guidelines of the profession of dental hygiene.

The dental hygienist is the dental professional who is the healthy, happy heartbeat of most dental practices. Your patients often see the hygienist before they see us, and I know we all appreciate their work and patient education and care in our offices. There is an important holistic role in preventive care by reducing bacteria and inflammation in a way only a dental hygienist can. As a former dental hygienist myself, I can say that my experience in the role truly made me a better dentist.

Again, the Louisiana State Board of Dentistry only regulates dentists and dental hygienists who are licensed in this great state.

Any licensed Louisiana dentist in good standing working in a public school or a federal or state institution that provides healthcare may employ a licensed dental hygienist, who may perform duties authorized by the board. A licensed dental hygienist may operate under a licensed Louisiana dentist’s direct or general supervision as defined in LAC 46:XXXIII.108, within the limits prescribed by the board in LAC 46:XXXIII.701. The licensed dental hygienist shall be responsible for providing notification to the board of the name and location of their employer. The employing dentist is responsible for the dental treatments a hygienist performs.

Hygienists can only administer nitrous oxide and local anesthesia if they have first obtained permits from the board office. If you are hiring any new hygiene graduates and expect them to use either of those, please ensure they have the appropriate permits. Most Louisiana hygiene graduates are trained in both nitrous and local anesthesia in their programs, so obtaining the permits for them should be pretty straightforward. If you employ a hygienist trained in another state, they may need to contact the board office for guidance in getting their nitrous or local permit. All permit applications are available on the board’s website (www.lsbd.org).

All RDH’s are required to display their original license (or a copy) along with the current renewal certificate and any permits in a conspicuous place to be seen by all patients along with the dentists practicing at that particular location. This is something our inspector checks for when she conducts office inspections, so you should ensure you have the necessary certificates for your office. If you or your hygienists are missing anything, you can visit the licensee login section of the board’s website (www.lsbd.org) to print your current renewal certificates and permits. If your original license certificate

has been lost or destroyed, you can contact the board office to receive a new one.

In addition to obtaining copies of your and your staff ’s licenses and certificates, you can always call the board office with questions related to C.E., anesthesia, or anything else licensure-related.

The board and staff work diligently to assist the public and the professional with the ultimate goal: to protect the public. If ever there are any questions, concerns, or issues that arrive, the entire dental board staff are available to assist you. I strongly encourage open communication to help resolve and ensure a positive outcome.

It is my desire to encourage ethical dentistry with our dental staff personnel who help us render excellent dental care to all our patients who trust us. I look forward to continuing to serve you all as this year’s LSBD President. Thank you to all the board members and to the dental board staff for your commitment to this work.

To contact the Louisiana State Board of Dentistry: Call (225) 219-7330 OR go to www.lsbd.org

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LSUHSC SCHOOL OF DENTISTRY

I

Leadership Updates and Major Facilities Enhancements at the LSU School of Dentistry

By John R. Gallo, III, DDS, MS Dean and Professor, LSUHSC School of Dentistry

t is my pleasure to share several important updates that reflect our continued commitment to excellence in dental education, student success, and campus infrastructure at the LSU School of Dentistry.

Effective June 1, Dr. Adriana Wilson will assume the role of Assistant Dean of Student Affairs and Admissions. Dr. Wilson currently serves as Chair of the Department of Prosthodontics and has been a valued member of our faculty since 2015. She earned her dental degree from La Universidad Latina de Costa Rica and completed her prosthodontic training and Master of Science in Dentistry at the LSU School of Dentistry. She also holds a graduate certificate in teaching in Health Care Professions from LSU A&M. Dr. Wilson has distinguished herself as an educator and academic leader, earning multiple Golden Apple Excellence in Teaching Awards, the ADEA and AAL central laboratory, and the secondFaculty of Color Tuition Scholarship, and floor clinic dispensary. In addition, the LSUSD Research Excellence Award. we are excited to introduce a new She is a fellow of the ADEA Leadership exercise room that will enhance Institute and the LSU Leadership wellness opportunities for our campus Academy. Her longstanding commitment community. These upgrades are to student development, academic designed to improve functionality, excellence, and inclusive leadership support modern educational delivery, will serve our students and institution and strengthen the overall clinical exceptionally well in this expanded role. training environment.

Also effective June 1, Dr. Shirin We are also excited to announce Khoynezhad will be appointed LSUSD Alumni Day 2026. This Interim Chair of the Department of Renovation Update: The iconic orange chairs year’s event will begin with an alumni Prosthodontics. Dr. Khoynezhad is an from Aud C are on the way out! reception on October 22, followed associate professor of prosthodontics with by continuing education sessions more than 15 years of experience in clinical on October 23.

Alumni Day offers a valuable opportunity to earn care, teaching, and academic leadership. She earned both her DDS C.E. credit, reconnect with classmates, and engage with faculty and and DMSc in prosthodontics from the Harvard School of Dental students.

Additional details will be shared in the coming months. For Medicine. At LSUSD, she currently serves as co-director of the more information, please contact Sarah Petty at ds-alumni@lsuhsc.

Internationally Educated Dentists Program.

In addition to these leadership transitions, I am especially pleased edu or (504) 941-8120.

Together, these updates underscore our continued dedication to to highlight significant advancements in our campus facilities. advancing our mission and strengthening the LSUSD community.

After extensive planning, several long-anticipated renovation and improvement projects are now scheduled to move forward beginning in mid-May. These projects represent a major investment in the learning, teaching, and work environments that support our Visit lsusd.lsuhsc.edu to learn students, faculty, and staff.

Planned renovations include a total modernization of auditorium more about LSUSD. C, audiovisual technology upgrades in auditoriums A and B, and comprehensive improvements to the first-floor screening clinic, the

14 LDA Journal • Summer 2026

d e t c e n n o C

STAY

with the

Search “LouisianaDentalAssociation” on Instagram and Facebook

Visit our website at ladental.org

LDA Journal • Summer 2026 15

WEALTH MANAGEMENT

The 3-Lane Highway Approach to Financial Planning

By Chad Olivier CEO®,CEPA, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™

A

s a dentist, you would never diagnose or create a treatment plan by looking at just one tooth. You evaluate the full picture—oral health, structure, long-term function, and prevention—because focusing on a single issue can lead to bigger problems down the road. Your financial life deserves the same level of comprehensive care.

Financial guidance frequently operates in a single lane—focused narrowly on investments, insurance, or retirement projections.

Your financial strategy should reflect your entire journey. That is the foundation of the 3-Lane Highway Approach to Financial Planning.

A practical way to implement this strategy is through a three-bucket approach to investing:

The Problem with Single-Lane Planning Imagine driving on a highway with only one lane. Traffic becomes congested and hazards are harder to avoid. The same holds true in financial planning. When the focus is on one aspect—such as investment performance—critical elements like tax efficiency, retirement income strategy, estate planning, and business succession may be overlooked. Your financial plan may miss opportunities to optimize taxes, create sustainable income, protect your legacy, and prepare for life’s unexpected events.

A Real-World Example Consider a dentist approaching retirement after years of building a successful practice. Instead of relying solely on market performance for income, their portfolio is structured using the three-bucket approach.

The stable bucket covers the first several years of retirement expenses, regardless of market conditions. The mid (dividend) bucket generates ongoing income through dividends and interest, for cash flow.

Meanwhile, the growth bucket remains invested for pursuing long-term appreciation, growth, and inflation protection.

This structure allows the dentist to maintain confidence during periods of market volatility, avoid selling growth assets at inopportune times, and support a more predictable and sustainable retirement income strategy.

The 3-Lane Highway Approach This approach integrates multiple components of your financial life into a coordinated strategy, allowing each element to work together toward your long-term goals.

Lane 1: Investment Management Think of this as the left—or “fast”— lane of the highway. It drives growth and keeps your financial plan moving forward.

This lane includes assets such as 401(k) plans, traditional and Roth IRAs, and nonqualified brokerage accounts. It aligns your investment strategy with your goals, time horizon, and risk tolerance.

16 LDA Journal • Summer 2026

• The Stable Bucket: Designed for short-term needs (typically 0–3 years), this bucket focuses on capital preservation and liquidity.

• The Mid (Dividend) Bucket: This intermediate bucket (approximately 3–10 years) seeks a balance between income and moderate growth.

• The Growth Bucket: Built for longterm objectives (10+ years), this bucket is focused on capital appreciation and long-term wealth creation.

Lane 2: Retirement & Financial Planning Here, the focus expands beyond accumulation to include retirement income planning, Social Security timing strategies, Medicare considerations, and lifestyle goals.

It also incorporates scenario planning— addressing questions such as: • What if you retire earlier than expected?

• What if market conditions decline at an inopportune time?

• What if healthcare costs increase significantly?

Lane 3: Tax Management & Retirement Distribution Planning Key strategies in this lane include tax-efficient withdrawal strategies, Roth conversion analysis, coordinated IRA distributions, and multigenerational estate and legacy planning. The goal is to help reduce your lifetime tax burden, maximize income sustainability, and ensure your assets are transferred according to your wishes.

A More Complete Financial Picture When these three lanes are aligned, they provide a more comprehensive view of your financial life. This integrated approach is designed to improve tax efficiency, support sustainable retirement income, enhance long-term wealth preservation, and prepare for life’s uncertainties.

Your Journey Deserves More The road to financial independence should not be confined to a single lane. A welldesigned financial plan requires coordination, foresight, and adaptability. The 3-Lane Highway Approach offers a framework to help you move forward with clarity and confidence—no matter what lies ahead.

To take a more comprehensive approach to your financial future, visit oliviergroup.com to connect with a Certified Financial Planner™ professional.

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.

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NODC/LDAAS

H

Thank You for Attending NODC/LDAAS 2026!

By Dr. Kay Jordan General Chair of the 2026 NODC/LDA Annual Session Committee

ello from the NODC/LDAAS committee and staff members! I am happy to report that our meeting at the Hilton New Orleans Riverside in April was a success for the attendees, exhibitors, and speakers. Many thanks to all of you who registered and attended!

It was great catching up with colleagues and friends who came to take advantage of our fantastic slate of speakers. Many of our speakers have asked to return next year, so you may be able to catch a class with your favorite speaker from this year’s conference, next year!

We heard from attendees that the Thursday night social sponsored by LSU School of Dentistry was a fantastic addition to the conference. Many exhibitors mentioned that our exhibit hall

stood out compared to other conferences.

Please save the date for our next We’re delighted to hear that, and we’re NODC/LDAAS (April 8-10, 2027). Don’t even happier that our attendees miss out on the opportunity to take enjoyed it. The hall was part in a live, in-person event built packed with attendees to help you to learn, explore, enjoying various wine and reminisce! Stay tuned and beer selections, for updates on our speaker delicious appetizers, live lineup for next year, and once entertainment, all while again thanks to the entire visiting and shopping committee, LDA staff, and with exhibitors.

Andrew Hale, the NODA We’re excited to executive director!

Dr. Dominic Calato, NODC Chair announce and welcome Thank you to our the 2027 NODC incredible sponsors! For a Chair, Dr. Dom Calato. Dr. Calato is full list of the sponsors who helped make this a frequent NODC attendee, NODC event a success, visit nodc.org/exhibitors.

Conference Committee member, and is eager to get started on your 2027 conference.

Top row from top left: Dr. Brian Novy poses for a picture with one of his classes.; LDA President Dr. Roman Farrar and his wife, Jennifer.; LDA Director of Membership Jacob DeBlieux checks in LSUSD Dean Dr. John Gallo (NODA) at the registration desk.; Bottom row (from left to right): Dr. Malamed and one of his classes.; Dr. Robert Camenzuli (NODA) and his staff enjoying NODC/LDAAS.

18 LDA Journal • Summer 2026

Dr. Catherine Hebert (GBR) and Dr. Vince DiLeo (NODA) discuss an upcoming course.

2026 NODC Committee Chair Dr. Kay Jordan (NODA) fuels up for a busy day at the conference!

LDA Journal • Summer 2026 19

THE 2026 LDA AWARDS LDA Distinguished Service Award The LDA Distinguished Service Award is the highest honor bestowed by the LDA. LDA members who receive this award must exemplify the highest standards of professional conduct in dentistry and make extraordinary contributions to organized dentistry and their communities.

Dr. Byron Ganucheau

Dr. Byron Ganucheau has been a dedicated tripartite member of the LDA, the American Dental Association and the New Orleans Dental Association for 30 years. Ganucheau’s professional affiliations also include: a fellowship in the International and American Colleges of Dentists, a membership with the Academy of General Dentistry and a board member position with the Dental Lifeline Network.

Following his 1996 graduation from LSU School of Dentistry, Dr. Ganucheau became involved in organized dentistry by attending the monthly general membership meetings for the LDA’s New Orleans component, which led to him joining the membership committee, then becoming an at-large board member, then serving as the New Orleans Dental Association President in 2020. In 2024, he received the NODA Honor Dentist Award for his long-standing commitment to volunteerism in NODA. The New Orleans Dental Conference is hosted by the New Orleans and Louisiana Dental Associations. It offers quality continuing education, valuable networking opportunities, and a community-focused experience for dentists and their staff. This event is created almost exclusively by volunteer dentists. Ganucheau served as a room monitor for the New Orleans Dental Conference and the Public Relations Chair for the NODC/LDA Annual Session before becoming the Chairman of the New Orleans Dental Conference 2018.

When asked about his volunteerism in the dental field, Dr. Ganucheau states, “You are never too old to be a part of organized dentistry. By participating, you can help shape the future of your chosen career.” Organized dentistry does not exist without volunteers, and Dr. Ganucheau doesn’t stop at volunteering for his community. He also serves as a lecturer at Our Lady of Divine Providence Catholic Church in Metairie.

20 LDA Journal • Summer 2026

Dr. John Little

Dr. John Little has been a dedicated tripartite member of the LDA, the American Dental Association and the Northeast Louisiana Dental Association for 41 years. Dr. Little’s professional affiliations also include: The Psi Omega Dental Fraternity, The Pierre Fauchard Academy and The American College of Dentists.

Dr. Little’s story begins with a commitment to excellence. After earning his Bachelor of Science in Biology from Tulane University in 1977, he went on to receive his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the LSU School of Dentistry in 1984. For over four decades, since 1985, Dr. Little served as a general practice dentist and practice owner. For just as long, he has been a staff dentist at Franklin Medical Center, ensuring that quality dental care is accessible to his community. His work has extended far beyond the walls of his private practice. He currently serves as the Franklin Parish Head Start dentist, caring for some of the most vulnerable members of our community — our children.

But Dr. Little’s impact does not stop with patient care.

He has given generously of his time and expertise to the advancement of the dental profession. He served as President of the Northeast Louisiana Dental Association and has been recognized with a 25-Year Service Award from that organization. He currently serves as Board President for the Louisiana Dental Peer Review and as Peer Review Chairman for Northeast Louisiana. He has also served in the Louisiana House of Delegates and on the Louisiana State Fluoridation Committee for ten years — advocating for policies that protect and improve oral health across the state. His professional affiliations are extensive — the American Dental Association, the Louisiana Dental Association, LADPAC, Psi Omega Dental Fraternity — and they reflect not only membership, but active leadership and commitment. His service to the broader community is equally remarkable. For 11 years, he served on the Board of Governors for the Galveston Shriner’s Hospital, helping ensure that children in need receive specialized care.

The LDA thanks Dr. Little for his dedication, his leadership, and his lifelong commitment to serving others.

Congratulations on a life so well-lived — and a legacy that will continue for generations to come.

LDA New Dentist Award

The LDA Humanitarian Award

The LDA New Dentist Award is presented annually to one LDA member who has practiced dentistry for less than 10 years and has distinguished themselves by giving their time and talents for the betterment of the dental industry. Such contributions include civic involvement, public service and unselfish devotion to the dental profession.

The LDA Humanitarian Award recognizes dentists who have distinguished themselves through outstanding dental service activities in the USA or abroad.

Dr. Mason Copeland Liles

Dr. Mason Liles has been a dedicated tripartite member of the LDA, the American Dental Association and the Northeast Louisiana Dental Association (NELDA) for 5 years.

Dr. Mason Liles is a general dentist and co-owner of Southern Smiles Family Dentistry in Mangham and Rayville, Louisiana. Since earning his DDS from LSU Health Sciences Center School of Dentistry in 2021, he has focused on delivering high-quality, patient-centered care while expanding access to dentistry in rural Northeast Louisiana.

Just one year after graduation from the LSU School of Dentistry, Dr. Liles became the social chair of NELDA, then stepped into the treasurer/secretary role. Dr. Liles currently serves as NELDA President and is an active board member of the Louisiana Dental Association’s New Dentist and Membership Committees. As a leader in the NELDA and in the LDA, he champions access to quality continuing education experiences for his component members. Additionally, he is a Fellow of the Pierre Fauchard Academy and a committed advocate for organized dentistry at both the local and state levels.

Dr. Liles is heavily involved in his community, supporting outreach initiatives, mentoring young professionals, and promoting the importance of organized dentistry.

He is passionate about continuing education, leadership development and strengthening the future of the dental profession in Louisiana.

Outside of his work in dentistry, Dr. Liles spends his time supporting his family and connecting with his faith. You can find him coaching his son’s t-ball team, attending a church service, or tending to his chickens at home.

Dr. James A. Leithead, Jr.

Dr. James A. Leithead, Jr., has been a dedicated tripartite member of the LDA, the American Dental Association and the Southwest Louisiana Dental Association for 48 years. He is a lifetime member of the American Association of Orthodontists. He obtained his dental degree from the Louisiana State University School of Dentistry in 1978 and was awarded his Certificate of Orthodontics from the postgraduate residency program at the Louisiana State University School of Dentistry. In 1980, Dr. Leithead began practicing orthodontics as a full-time solo practitioner. He practiced for 37 years and then continued on a parttime basis from 2018 until he retired on October 24, 2025. Through additional case presentations and oral/ written examinations, he was able to obtain his Board Certification in Orthodontics in 1990.

Dr. Leithead’s impressive history of community service involves volunteer work as well as participation in church and school activities. He was a member of the New Orleans Craniofacial Anomalies/Cleft Palate Team for 37 years, providing donated orthodontics services to patients in the Lake Charles area. Dr. Leithead provided orthodontic treatment to local children for 32 years through the Donated Dental Services Program and donated orthodontic treatment to residents of Boys Village in Calcasieu Parish. He helped organize the initial Calcasieu Parish Dental Health Fair and continued to be an active participant for many years. Dr. Leithead, Jr., also donated dental hygiene supplies on a regular basis to the Calcasieu Parish Women’s Shelter. He participated in the Donated Orthodontic Services Program, established by the American Association of Orthodontists in 2009, to provide care to children of low-income families, until his retirement. For his work in the community, Dr. Leithead, Jr., received the Gold Medal Award from the Calcasieu Parish Office of Community Services in 1993.

Outside of his community, Dr. James A. Leithead, Jr., was a participant in several dental mission trips to Potrerillos, Honduras, from 2018 to 2023. These mission trips provided critical dental treatment to residents and neighboring communities, who have little to no access to dental care. Although his participation in these mission trips has been paused for now, he hopes to return as a team member soon.

LDA Journal • Summer 2026 21

Dental Volunteers Provide Fresh Start for Louisiana Resident

For Tammy, 35, a resident of Tangipahoa Parish, the path to a healthy life had become a crisis she couldn’t afford to fix.

Having recently moved back to Louisiana from Colorado with her husband—a veteran facing his own health challenges and unable to work—Tammy found a job at a nearby retail store to provide for the family.

The DDS Program and How You Can Help Since 1987, Dental Lifeline Network’s DDS program has been operating in Louisiana and changing the lives of individuals in need of dental care across the state. Through the generosity of the program’s volunteer dentists and labs, Dental Lifeline Network • Louisiana’s DDS program has connected over 5,600 individuals in need with necessary dental treatments in Louisiana, reaching over $12.9 million in donated services. Currently, 342 dentists and 77 labs volunteer through the DDS program in Louisiana to change the lives of the state’s most vulnerable adults – but more volunteers are needed.

“Local outreach is important because it strengthens the very neighborhoods we call home,” shared Dr. Tabita Hooper. “I encourage every dental professional to consider volunteering for Dental Lifeline Network. Through the DDS program, we have the privilege of transforming lives in our communities one smile at a time.”

There are currently many individuals in Louisiana who are awaiting the essential dental care that could transform their lives. Learn how you can make a difference and sign up to volunteer at WhyIDental.org.

22 LDA Journal • Summer 2026

While working hard and taking care of her family, her overall health was suffering. After a recent visit to her primary care physician, she learned that she was at a serious risk of dental infection and needed urgent care. Tammy suffered from numerous broken teeth that constantly cut her tongue and battled TMJ so severe that her jaw locked up multiple times a month. Living in daily pain, she was restricted to only eating soft foods.

Due to being in her job for less than six months, she did not yet qualify for dental insurance through her employer. The family received help with basic monthly expenses from family members, but the cost of comprehensive dental care was more than they could afford. The dental care she needed was out of reach, until volunteers from Dental Lifeline Network • Louisiana’s Donated Dental Services (DDS) program stepped in to help

A DDS Volunteer Steps In

Thankfully, general dentist and DDS volunteer Dr. Tabita Hooper recognized the urgency of Tammy’s situation and stepped in to help. Dr. Hooper provided an incredible level of comprehensive care, performing 8 extractions, 27 restorations, and providing two partial dentures. The constant pain that defined Tammy’s daily life was replaced by the relief of having a healthy mouth. The care Dr. Hooper provided helped Tammy move past the fear of infection, focus on her work, and prioritize supporting her husband as they build their life in Louisiana.

“I am so thankful for your help,” shared Tammy. “I had been suffering for the last ten years and it got to a point where I wasn’t able to eat, talk, or hear. Now, I no longer have issues with my jaw locking or in pain. Now, I no longer have issues with my hearing. I literally cannot stop smiling.”

Don’t wait! Learn more and sign up to be a volunteer by scanning the QR code or visiting WhyIDental.org and you can change the lives of individuals in desperate need of dental care.

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FEATURE

Exploring the Potential Risks of Emerging Artificial Intelligence Use in Healthcare

By Clark R. Hudson, Esq. and Laura V. Stingl, Esq. Neil Dymott Hudson, APLC

W

ithin growing AI healthcare technology, there are: surgical robots, disinfection robots, imaging diagnostic software, scribe applications, automated scheduling platforms, AI-powered chatbots with virtual assistance, and many other available tools.i As of a July 2025 update from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States, the pace of FDA approvals appears to be accelerating and the FDA has authorized over 100 AI medical devices.ii AI technology offers greater practice efficiency, but – as was evident in the adoption of EHR – its integration depends on thoughtful implementation and adequate provider training. At the same time, AI should be viewed as a support tool rather than a substitute for a doctor’s patient-specific clinical assessment and judgment. This article examines the potential risks and complexities associated with this rapidly evolving technology; it is not intended to cover the AI topic in its entirety.

Scribing and Medical Documentation Certain AI applications listen to doctor-patient verbal interactions and can generate documentation based on technology that converts voice interaction to text. Doctors may leverage this technology to improve patient engagement by focusing on active listening and observation. However, unless verbalized, these observations along with physical exam findings would not be incorporated into the record. If utilizing AI for scribing purposes, human proofreading and oversight is recommended to ensure that essential patient encounter information is not omitted from the record. Doctors are also encouraged to consider these due diligence questions: Is there documented patient consent to be recorded?

Where, and for how long, are the recordings stored? Who has access to the recordings?

Early Intervention Uses AI technology may be used to support early intervention and preventative treatment such as caries detection, and periodontal disease detection. In endodontics, doctors have begun using it for identifying periapical lesions, crown, and root fractures and assessing the quality of existing root canal treatment.iii However, accuracy issues such as false-negatives, false-positives, or misinterpretations are possible. These occurences demonstrate the need for human oversight.

24 LDA Journal • Summer 2026

AI Technology and the Unknown Liability Considerations What if AI software influences a misdiagnosis or inappropriate treatment plan for a patient? If a doctor did not independently review AI-generated content, plaintiff attorneys may argue provider liability. Courts have not yet established clear guidelines on what constitutes the “standard of care” when AI is involved, or whether such cases might be viewed in the context of product liability issues.

As of today, while AI software is not considered a tangible object, the unpredictable nature may or may not be covered by product warnings or design defects. As more traction develops with this technology, courts may decide whether they are categorized as products under the law.

As with any claim, liability will depend on the facts of each case and is sometimes shared between two or more defendants. When considering cases involving AI and potential liability, remember that everyone involved with a patient’s care and treatment has a responsibility to provide accurate and safe patient care, as well as understand each medical device and AI technology that practitioners use when caring for patients.

The Main Takeaway: Doctor Oversight is Still Necessary From a risk management standpoint, if a practice intends to utilize AI, use it to supplement or support human practices and clinical decision making, not as a replacement. Human involvement and oversight are still necessary; most importantly, users must understand AI’s inherent limitations.

References i U.S. Food & Drug Administration. (2025, July 10). Artificial intelligence–enabled medical devices. https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/software-medical-device-samd/ artificial-intelligence-enabled-medical-devices Kankar, A. (2025, July 14). The 2025 index: 100 FDA-approved AI-driven medical devices.

MedTech Spectrum. https://medtechspectrum.com/analysis/12/24541/the-2025-index-100-fdaapproved-ai-driven-medical-devices.html ii

American Dental Association. (2022, December 30). Dentistry- Overview of Artificial and Augmented Intelligence Uses in Dentistry. ADA SCDI White Paper 1106. www.ada.org iii

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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.

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ladental.org/sonoma LDA Journal • Summer 2026 25

FEATURE

Managing Antiplatelet and Anticoagulant Therapy in Dentoalveolar Surgery: A Practical Guide for the Dental Team Ross Brockman, DMD, MD

G.E. Ghali, DDS, MD

P

atients commonly present for extractions, implant placement, periodontal surgery, preprosthetic surgery, biopsies, and other dentoalveolar procedures while taking antiplatelet or anticoagulant medications. For the practitioner, the central clinical question is rarely whether these medications increase bleeding; they do. The more important question is whether the bleeding risk is clinically meaningful to justify exposing the patient to the potentially catastrophic consequences of medication interruption, including myocardial infarction, stroke, stent thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, or valve thrombosis.

A general swing in practice sentiment has supported a more conservative approach: most routine dental procedures can be performed without stopping antiplatelet or anticoagulant therapy, provided the procedure is planned carefully and local hemostatic measures are used. This sentiment comes from extensive phase III trials of direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC) in comparison to warfarin showing uninterrupted therapy major bleeding rates to around 2-3% depending on the drug (Nazha et al., 2018). When identified surgical risk is high for intraoperative or postoperative bleeding, it is prudent to obtain consultation with the prescriber, as well as, reducing the length of medication interruption to the shortest deemed necessary timeframe.

Common Medications, Mechanisms, and Clinical Uses Antiplatelet agents interfere with platelet activation and aggregation. They are most often prescribed for arterial thrombotic disease, including coronary artery disease, prior myocardial infarction, ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack, peripheral arterial disease, and following coronary stent placement.

Aspirin irreversibly inhibits platelet cyclooxygenase-1, reducing thromboxane A2 production and impairing platelet aggregation for the lifespan of the platelet. Clopidogrel, marketed as Plavix, is a P2Y12 platelet inhibitor. Ticagrelor, marketed as Brilinta, is also a P2Y12 inhibitor, but, unlike clopidogrel, it binds reversibly.

The direct DOAC’s act on the coagulation cascade rather than the platelets and are now widely used for arterial thromboembolism such as atrial fibrillation (AFib), as well as venous thromboembolism (VTE) such as deep venous thrombosis (DVT’s) or a history of pulmonary embolism. Apixaban, marketed as Eliquis, is a selective factor Xa inhibitor. Rivaroxaban, marketed as Xarelto, is also a selective factor Xa inhibitor. Dabigatran, marketed as Pradaxa, is a competitive direct thrombin inhibitor. Pradaxa prevents thrombin-mediated conversion of fibrinogen to fibrin and inhibits free thrombin, clot-bound thrombin, and thrombin-induced platelet aggregation.

26 LDA Journal • Summer 2026

By Drs. Ross Brockman, DMD, MD and G.E. Ghali, DDS, MD Willis-Knighton Health System Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

Warfarin, marketed as Coumadin, is a vitamin K antagonist.

It inhibits synthesis of vitamin K-dependent clotting factors (II, VII, IX, and X), as well as proteins C and S. It is used for venous thromboembolism, atrial fibrillation, mechanical heart valves, and selected post-myocardial infarction indications. Warfarin requires International Normalized Ratio (INR) monitoring.

Risk Matters When evaluating risk in our patients, we must ask ourselves two questions: 1) What is the patient’s risk of a thromboembolic event if the medication is discontinued, and 2) What is the risk of major bleeding from the specific procedure itself ?

Risk of thrombotic or thromboembolic events is generally the purview of the prescriber, but in general, dual antiplatelet therapy remains recommended in second-generation drug-eluting stents (DES) for >9 months with exact timing dependent on the situation for which it was placed. (Kinlay et al., 2023) AFib risk is classified

by CHA2DS2VASc score which is an additive equation of positive parameters including congestive heart failure, hypertension, age >75 years, diabetes mellitus, prior stroke or transient ischemic attack, vascular disease history, age >65 years, female sex.

Mechanical heart valve risk is dependent on the type of heart valve, and venous thromboembolism is dependent on the situation surrounding the patient’s history of VTE and the timeframe or recurrent nature of the VTE. (Douketis et al., 2022).

The overall risk of major bleeding from dental procedures is relatively low with guidelines routinely listing dental procedures as low to minimal risk. (Spyropoulos et al., 2019) This generalization is not true of all dental procedures in all dental patients. The elderly,

those with cirrhosis or renal failure in particular will have higher overall risk. Simple extractions, bone grafting, small biopsies, root surface debridement, and restorations with subgingival margins remain in the low to intermediate classification, whereas extraction of more than 3 teeth, extraction of contiguous teeth creating a larger wound, removal of osseous or soft tissue pathology, flap raising procedures, or gingival recontouring are noted to carry a higher risk of major bleeding (Curtis et al., 2025).

When a low risk for a thromboembolic event is combined with a high risk of postoperative major bleeding, we may begin to consider holding of anticoagulants in consultation with the patient’s physician. Generally, even for high-risk procedures, single antiplatelet therapy (SAPT) or dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) can generally be continued. In low to moderate risk procedures, DOAC may be continued, but consideration for a 1-2 day hold may be reasonable and relatively safe in certain high-risk procedures (Nazha et al., 2018), with a plan to restart the day after surgery. When management of warfarin is needed, it is often appropriate to discuss with the patient’s physician if questions arise, however, low to medium risk procedures can be safely performed with an INR 2-4. If feasible, it is best to have the INR closer to 2 for high-risk procedures.

systematic. First, determine whether the bleeding is oozing versus arterial or brisk venous bleeding. Remove the clot only if needed to identify the source, irrigate gently, anesthetize with local anesthetic containing epinephrine when appropriate, repack the socket, place additional sutures, and apply prolonged pressure. If bleeding remains uncontrolled, the patient may require evaluation in an emergency department or hospital setting, particularly if they are symptomatic, hypotensive, have significant comorbid disease, are taking combination antithrombotic therapy, or require systemic reversal.

Conclusion For most routine dentoalveolar procedures, the risk of stopping antiplatelet or anticoagulant therapy is greater than the risk of manageable oral bleeding. Aspirin, clopidogrel, ticagrelor, apixaban, dabigatran, rivaroxaban, and warfarin can usually be managed safely with procedure planning, careful surgical technique, staging of extensive surgery, suturing, packing, and clear postoperative instructions. Medication interruption should be individualized and coordinated with the prescribing clinician, particularly in patients with coronary stents, recent venous thromboembolism, mechanical valves, renal impairment, combination therapy, or planned extensive surgery. The dental team’s goal is not to eliminate bleeding risk, but to manage it locally while protecting the patient from preventable thromboembolic harm.

Curtis, J., Henderson, D. P., Zarghami, M., Rashedi, S., & Bikdeli, B. (2025). Management of antithrombotic therapy in patients undergoing dental procedures. Journal of Thrombosis and Haemostasis, 23(1), 47–72. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jtha.2024.09.022 Douketis, J. D., Spyropoulos, A. C., Murad, M. H., Arcelus, J. I., Dager, W. E., Dunn, A. S., Fargo, R. A., Levy, J. H., Samama, C. M., Shah, S. H., Sherwood, M. W., Tafur, A. J., Tang, L. V., & Moores, L. K. (2022). Perioperative Management of Antithrombotic Therapy: An American College of Chest Physicians Clinical Practice Guideline. Chest, 162(5), e207–e243. https:// doi.org/10.1016/j.chest.2022.07.025 Kinlay, S., Young, M. M., Sherrod, R., & Gagnon, D. R. (2023). Long-Term Outcomes and Duration of Dual Antiplatelet Therapy After Coronary Intervention With SecondGeneration Drug-Eluting Stents: The Veterans Affairs Extended DAPT Study. Journal of the American Heart Association, 12(2). https://doi.org/10.1161/JAHA.122.027055 Nazha, B., Pandya, B., Cohen, J., Zhang, M., Lopes, R. D., Garcia, D. A., Sherwood, M. W., & Spyropoulos, A. C. (2018). Periprocedural outcomes of direct oral anticoagulants versus warfarin in nonvalvular atrial fibrillation meta-analysis of phase III trials. Circulation, 138(14), 1402–1411. https://doi.org/10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.117.031457

Local Postoperative Bleeding Management The safest strategy is to anticipate. Limit the extent of the surgical field when possible, stage multiple extractions, remove granulation tissue, smooth sharp bone, and obtain primary closure where feasible.

Sutures should be used liberally in patients taking antithrombotic medications, especially after multiple extractions, flap procedures, osseous surgery, and implant placement.

Local hemostatic options include firm gauze pressure, gelatin sponge, oxidized regenerated cellulose, collagen plugs, topical thrombin when available, figure-of-eight sutures, primary mucosal closure, and tranexamic acid used as a mouth rinse or applied to gauze.

Patients should receive clear written postoperative instructions.

They should avoid vigorous rinsing, spitting, smoking, heavy exertion, and alcohol for the first 24 hours. They should be instructed to bite on folded gauze for 30 to 60 minutes, and if bleeding occurs, to call the dental office or oral surgery service if persistent. If postoperative bleeding occurs, management should be

Spyropoulos, A. C., Brohi, K., Caprini, J., Samama, C. M., Siegal, D., Tafur, A., Verhamme, P., & Douketis, J. D. (2019). Scientific and Standardization Committee Communication: Guidance document on the periprocedural management of patients on chronic oral anticoagulant therapy: Recommendations for standardized reporting of procedural/surgical bleed risk and patient-specific thromboembolic risk. Journal of Thrombosis and Haemostasis, 17(11), 1966– 1972. https://doi.org/10.1111/jth.14598 Chart images created by authors with artificial intelligence.

This issue and previous issues of the LDA Journal are always available to members only in the LDA member section at ladental.org.

LDA Journal • Summer 2026 27

FEATURE

The Hidden Risks of Selling Too Late

By Preston Lovelace J.D., M.S. ADS Lovelace and Associates (LDA/LDS Endorsed Company)

F

or many dentists, their practice represents decades of dedication, patient relationships, and professional achievement. Deciding when to transition out of ownership is a significant decision, often accompanied by emotional and financial considerations. Selling isn’t just about finding a buyer; timing plays a critical role in preserving value, reducing stress, and creating a smooth exit. There are many potential pitfalls of postponing the sale of your dental practice, many of which can be avoided with timely planning.

Declining Revenue Can Undermine Practice Value As dentists approach retirement, it’s natural to reduce clinical hours, refer out complex procedures, or scale back on marketing efforts. These adjustments usually lead to a gradual decline in practice revenue.

Potential buyers examine recent financial performance, and a downward trend can raise concerns about the practice’s viability.

A trending decline in revenue over a couple years can significantly impact the dental practice valuation and reduce the final sale price. This can also lengthen the transition period and potentially limit buyer interest.

Burnout Affects More Than Just the Practitioner Burnout can manifest as decreased enthusiasm, reduced patient interaction, or a reluctance to adopt new technologies.

This emotional and physical exhaustion can ripple throughout the practice, impacting its appeal to potential buyers.

They’re not just evaluating your production numbers; they’re reviewing your systems and your leadership as well. If the staff is frequently turning over, the business feels like it’s losing momentum or the revenue is declining year over year, the buyer will factor that into their offer. In some cases, they may reconsider buying altogether.

28 LDA Journal • Summer 2026

Burnout can also make the selling process more challenging. If you are burned out while waiting for the right person to purchase your practice, that process can seem to linger and it can be challenging. Ensuring your office is running well as a team will help to create a successful transition.

Market Dynamics May Not Align with Personal Timelines External factors, such as interest rates and buyer demand, play a crucial role in the dental practice sales landscape.

Rising interest rates can make financing more expensive for buyers, potentially reducing the pool of qualified candidates.

Additionally, the increasing presence of Dental Service Organizations (DSOs) has shifted buyer expectations, with many seeking a job as opposed to finding a practice to purchase.

Waiting for a more favorable market or personal readiness might result in missed opportunities, especially if market conditions shift unfavorably. For instance, if interest rates rise, it becomes more expensive for buyers to finance a purchase, which can impact what they are able to pay.

In certain parts of Louisiana, particularly in rural or suburban areas, the pool of qualified buyers is already small. Delaying a sale could mean missing out on a serious buyer who is ready now. The longer you wait, the harder it may become to find the right fit on your desired timeline.

Delayed Sales Can Lead to Complicated Transitions Postponing the sale of a dental practice can introduce unanticipated complexities.

Health issues, sudden life changes, or rapid declines in practice performance can force hurried decisions, often resulting in less favorable terms. Quick sales might involve seller financing, extended transition periods, reduced sale prices or all three.

Sellers who start the planning process while their practice is still healthy have far more leverage. They have time to enhance their practice value, clean up their financials, find the right purchaser and select the right offer, and negotiate from a position of strength.

Recognizing the Optimal Time to Sell Determining the right moment to sell is a balance between personal readiness and market conditions. Indicators that it might be an appropriate time include consistent patient flow and stable revenue, a desire to reduce clinical hours or responsibilities, an interest in exploring other professional or personal endeavors, and awareness of market trends favoring sellers.

Engaging with expert dental brokers who specialize in transitions can provide valuable insights on potential ways to increase your sales price and help to align personal goals with market opportunities.

Proactive Planning Leads to Optimal Outcomes Delaying a dental practice sale can inadvertently introduce challenges that diminish its value and complicate the transition process. By recognizing the signs and understanding market dynamics, dentists can make informed decisions that preserve the legacy of their practice and ensure financial security.

Preston Lovelace, J.D., M.S., is the President of ADS Lovelace and Associates, Inc., a full-service practice appraisal and transitions group endorsed by the LDA. He is currently a member of the Louisiana State and U.S. Patent bars. He has worked as a transition specialist with Lovelace and Associates since 2005. He can be reached at (225) 614-7700 or Plovelace@gmail.com.

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LSU Health New Orleans Continuing Dental Education is an ADA CERP Recognized Provider. ADA CERP is a service of the American Dental Association to assist dental professionals in identifying quality providers of continuing dental education. ADA CERP does not approve or endorse individual courses or instructors, nor does it imply acceptance of credit hours by boards of dentistry. LSU Health New Orleans Continuing Dental Education designates this activity for a maximum of five (5) hours of clinical continuing education credits (lecture).

LDA Journal • Summer 2026 29

HUMANITARIAN AWARD | NEW DENTIST AWARD DISTINGUSIHED SERVICE AWARD | HUMANITARIA AWARD | NEW DENTIST AWARD | DISTINGUSIHED SERVICE AWARD | HUMANITARIAN AWARD | NEW ENTIST AWARD | DISTINGUSIHED SERVICE AWAR HUMANITARIAN AWARD | NEW DENTIST AWARD DISTINGUSIHED SERVICE AWARD | HUMANITARIA AWARD | NEW DENTIST AWARD | DISTINGUSIHED Nominations SERVICE AWARD | HUMANITARIAN AWARD | NEW ENTIST AWARD | DISTINGUSIHED SERVICE AWAR Submit nominations at HUMANITARIAN AWARD | NEW DENTIST by AWARD ladental.org/awards November 1 DISTINGUSIHED SERVICE AWARD | HUMANITARIA AWARD | NEW DENTIST AWARD | DISTINGUSIHED DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD SERVICE AWARD HUMANITARIAN AWARD| HUMANITARIAN AWARD | NEW NEW DENTIST AWARD ENTIST AWARD | DISTINGUSIHED SERVICE AWAR HUMANITARIAN AWARD | NEW DENTIST AWARD

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Congratulations to Dr. John Legleu for transitioning his Baton Rouge Periodontal office to Dr. Afarin Arghami

ASSOCIATE POSITIONS

Alexandria Baton Rouge Covington Lafayette Monroe Morgan City New Orleans Shreveport St. James Parish St. Tammany Periodontal Washington Parish

Alexandria Lafayette Lake Charles Lutcher New Orleans Shreveport View updated Listings and Associate Positions on our website!

Congratulations to Dr. Aimee Russo-Mounger for transitioning her Baton Rouge practice to Dr. Marcus Corkern

ADS LOVELACE AND ASSOCIATES, INC. (225) 927-8015 LovelaceAndAssociates.com 30 LDA Journal • Summer 2026

PRACTICES FOR SALE

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To order, visit ladental.org or call (800) 388-6642 or (225) 926-1986.

LDA Journal • Summer 2026 31

LDA

The LSU chapter of the American Student Dental Association (ASDA) has been busy as usual! Keep reading to see what these student leaders have been up to.

ASDA Semester Updates

January – Service Month

LSU ASDA members at Second Harvest Food Bank.

LSU dental students participated in a variety of service events, including serving breakfast to the unhoused at Ozanam Inn, attending a lunch and learn provided by Dr. Nick Rauber (founder of Swollfest) about service after graduation, enjoying a mission trip lunch and learn hosted by D4 students, and attending a food packing/ sorting event at Second Harvest Food Bank.

March

LDA Director of Membership Jacob DeBlieux at the LSUSD vendor fair.

March was an action-packed month to say the least! Our local chapter hosted several lunch and learns, including Treloar & Heisel on the topic of insurance and financial planning, MedPro for dental malpractice insurance, and a D2-specific lunch and learn with the LDA and Brown & Brown insurance. We also hosted our annual vendor fair, where over 20 vendors attended, including multiple loupes companies, several insurance firms, dental supply distributors, etc.

32 LDA Journal • Summer 2026

To stay updated with the LSU ASDA chapter, give us a follow on Instagram @lsuasda

February

President Rivers Singley and outgoing advocacy chair Kade Edenfield were able to attend ASDA’s Annual Session, which gave them the opportunity to vote on legislative measures and policy adoption/amendment for ASDA as a nationwide entity. They were also able to network with other dental students from schools across the country and discuss how each of the individual chapters gives ASDA its strength and resilience on a nationwide level.

Rivers Singley (left) and Kade Edenfield Additionally, LSU ASDA was (right) with ASDA members from all over lucky enough to have a lunch and the nation at the ASDA Annual Session. learn on financial wellness, and a career panel with dentists from the LDA. These dentists spoke to students on topics such as life outside of practice, work/life balance, managing a family while also managing a practice, etc.

April

May – Pre-Dental Month

LSU ASDA Cabinet Members.

April started off strong with the election of our 20262027 cabinet members, all of whom are eager to get started in their respective roles and maintain the high standards of LSU ASDA. Each cabinet member is prepared for their role and the ideas/events for the upcoming year are abundant. We also partnered with SNDA for a blood drive, and we hosted two lunch and learns. SGA Dental Partners was gracious enough to have a lunch and learn, plus a social. Colgate also had a lunch and learn where they discussed their products and distributed samples for us to try.

A student at LSUSD Pre-Dental Day

As things begin to wind down for the year for students at LSU School of Dentistry, the future of dentistry remains a bright beacon on the horizon. As such, ASDA has the honor and privilege of hosting its annual Pre-Dental Day, where undergraduate predental students are invited to campus for school tours, chalk carving lessons, and helpful Q&A panels on topics such as admissions tips, life as a dental student, and life in New Orleans. Later in May, ASDA hosted its end of year social at Fulton Alley where all members could celebrate the end of the year and all the accomplishments they achieved with ASDA this year.

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LDA Journal • Summer 2026 33

LDA

What’s Going On?

Component Happenings from Around the State NODA

Across the State

Dr. John Dagate (Bayou), Dr. Cathy Honore (NODA), Dr. Laurie Moeller (NODA), Dr. John Gallo (NODA), and Dr. Colten Ducote (Northwest) pause for a photo at the Pierre Fauchard Academy Awards presentation.

Northeast

The LSUSD Class of 2016 had its ten-year reunion at Sidecar in New Orleans.

Dr. Kristi Soileau has joined the American Academy of Artificial Intelligence in Dentistry as the Senior Specialty Advisor for Periodontics & Implant Dentistry. The AAAI-D works to improve ethics, usage, and efficiency of AI in the dental field for the benefit of dentists and their patients.

Greater Baton Rouge Dr. Glenn Kidder (Greater Baton Rouge) grew up on a farm and has always had a garden. His staff loves his cucumbers and tomatoes.

Lane Eddleman (Northeast) and Justin Tarver (Northeast) with their wives, Andrée Eddleman and Dana Tarver, at The Masters Tournament.

34 LDA Journal • Summer 2026

Morgan Churchman, daughter of Carl W. Churchman (Southwest) and Mary Churchman (Southwest), placed first in division three state powerlifting championship. Morgan’s brother, Luke, is her coach. “As iron sharpens iron so one person sharpens another.” (Proverbs 27:17)

Southwest

LDA Membership Cons NONE!

Pros

LDA has the 4th lowest dues rate in the U.S. I have access to savings through the LDA Member Perks program that more than cover the cost of my dues every year.

LDA dues haven't gone up in over a decade.

I save an average of $150 on every LDA event I register for.

I save $8,000-$12,000/year from the sales tax exemption bill the LDA passed in 2002. The LDA continues to protect this exemption.

I get the LDA Journal in my mailbox and my inbox every three months.

Through 2026 legislative advocacy, the LDA monitored over 50 bills impacting dentistry, but focused on protecting community water fluoridation, securing funding for Medicaid incentive program payment and LSUSD renovations, securing medical insurance funding for dental treatments for cancer patients, and ensuring dentists can easily avoid fees from insurance company virtual credit card reimbursements.

In 2023, the LDA fought for a $52 million state budget increase for dental Medicaid and lobbied for the $48 million LSUSD infrastructure modernization project.

I can attend advocacy events with the LDA advocacy team to speak directly with my legislators.

I get twice-monthly E-Bytes in my inbox that include savings, new opportunities, and information I need..

I get to mentor dental students and even speak at LDA student events.

I save $200 on each EDDA registration I make.

I get a member discount on LDA classified ads.

I have access to the LDA Foundation Relief Fund in case I need financial assistance after a natural disaster.

I get free peer review and mediation services fromLDAthe LDA. Journal • Summer 2026 35

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: Date: Location: Provider:

Big Bite Fishing Rodeo July 17-18, 2026 Grand Isle Marina, Grand Isle, LA Louisiana Dental Association

Event: Date: Location: Provider: Registration:

LSUSD Year End Course 2026 December 4, 2026 New Orleans, LA LSU Health School of Dentistry lsusd.lsuhsc.edu, (504) 941-8193

Event: Date: Location:

Kick-Off C.E. August 28, 2026 LIVE VIA ZOOM, counts toward in-person hours Dr. Uche Odiatu Louisiana Dental Association

Event: Date: Location: Speaker: Provider:

Last Chance Seminar December 11, 2026 Baton Rouge, LA Dr. Carla Cohn Louisiana Dental Association

Event: Date: Location: Provider: Registration:

LSU 50th Annual Perio Review Course January 15-18, 2027 New Orleans, LA LSU Health School of Dentistry lsusd.lsuhsc.edu, (504) 941-8193

Event: Date: Location: Provider: Details:

Winter C.E. - Walt Disney World February 7-9, 2027 Walt Disney World, Orlando, FL Louisiana Dental Association ladental.org/character, (225) 926-1986

Event: Date: Location: Provider: Details:

New Orleans Dental Conference April 8-10, 2027 New Orleans, LA New Orleans Dental Association nodc.org

Event: Date: Location: Provider:

Summer Education Conference June 16-19, 2027 Pensacola, FL Louisiana Dental Association

Event: Date: Location: Provider: Registration:

Sip & C.E. on Bourbon Trail September 16-18, 2027 Louisville, KY (Bourre Bonne Hotel) Louisiana Dental Association ladental.org, (225) 926-1986

Speaker: Provider: Event: Date: Location: Speakers: Provider: Registration: Event: Date: Location: Speaker: Provider: Registration: Event:

Sip & C.E. in Sonoma Valley September 16-18, 2026 Sonoma, CA (Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa) Dr. David Balhoff, Dr. Justin Jellin, Dr. Noëlle M. Santucci Louisiana Dental Association ladental.org (225) 926-1986 Pediatric Sedation Renewal Course October 2, 2026 LIVE VIA ZOOM, counts toward in-person hours Dr. Priyanshi Ritwik Louisiana Dental Association ladental.org/pedssedation, (225) 926-1986

Registration:

The Collaborative Airway Management Summit October 16-18, 2026 New Orleans, LA Collaborative Airway Management Summit CAMSummit.us

Event: Date: Location: Provider: Registration:

LSUSD Alumni Day 2026 October 23, 2026 New Orleans, LA LSU Health School of Dentistry lsusd.lsuhsc.edu, (504) 941-8120

Date: Location: Provider:

36 LDA Journal • Summer 2026

For a list of all LDA C.E. events, including Winter C.E. through 2028, visit www.ladental.org/events

LDA Classifieds

Baton Rouge Hygienist Affordable Smiles of Baton Rouge is looking for full or part time hygienists to join the team. Full benefits including health insurance, 401k match, PTO, paid holidays, CE stipend. $40-$50 per hour starting with monthly bonus. Contact Dr. Darrell Bourg at dbourg@bamgp.com or (504) 232-6624 NEW IBERIA PROPERTY FOR SALE 621 Rue De Onetta, New Iberia, LA 70563

Iberia Parish Sheriff ’s Sale May 20, 2026.

Must be present by 9:45AM 19th JDC Courthouse, New Iberia Land, building, and all dental equipment will be sold in one sale. Bidder must have bank letter of credit covering bidder’s maximum bid amount.

For Sheriff ’s Sale procedures and specifics, contact: Iberia Parish Sheriff ’s Office in new Iberia, (337) 321-4582 For questions regarding the sale or financing, contact: Robert Marin at Patterson State Bank, (985) 395-8140 DENTIST WANTED - LAKE CHARLES, LA JOIN A THRIVING WHOLE-BODY WELLNESS DENTAL PRACTICE Lake Charles, Louisiana - Partnership/ Ownership Opportunity Available Our established, patient-centered practice is seeking a motivated, compassionate dentist to join our team. We approach dentistry through the lens of whole-body

wellness - recognizing that oral health is foundational to overall health - and we’re looking for a den-tist who shares that philosophy.

New graduates are warmly welcomed and mentored.

WHAT WE OFFER: • $5,000 moving/sign-on bonus • 35-40% of production (based on experience) • clear partnership opportunity for the right fit • Modern, well-equipped office with a loyal patient base • Whole-body wellness philosophy and integrative approach to care • Supportive, experienced team and strong front-office systems • Mentorship and onboarding support for new graduates • Excellent work/life balance in beautiful Southwest Louisiana WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR • DDS/DMD - Louisiana licensed or license-eligible • Strong clinical skills (or eagerness to develop them) • Excellent chair-side manner and commitment to patient care • Team-oriented, professional, and ready to build a long-term future ABOUT LAKE CHARLES: A vibrant Southwest Louisiana city with affordable living, Gulf Coast access, and strong community roots.

To apply, send CV and a brief introduction to: Michelle Swift Corcoran, DDS Lake Charles, LA (337) 478-2960 michelleswiftdds@gmail.com All inquiries held in strict confidence General Dentistry Practice for Sale – Historic Natchitoches A newly refurbished general dentistry practice in the heart of historic

Natchitoches presents an exceptional opportunity for a seamless transition into full-time ownership. This well-established office offers continuity of care for a loyal patient base and a dedicated team, while providing ample room for growth and modernization under new leadership.

Practice Highlights • Prime location in historic Natchitoches, LA • Recently refurbished facility with modern updates • Five fully equipped operatories • Digital imaging technology in place • Two full-time hygienists • Experienced front desk support and dental assistants • Four-day work week promoting strong work-life balance • Established patient base with a trusted community presence • Building also available for purchase for long-term investment stability • Thriving partnership with an orthodontist This opportunity is ideal for a dentist seeking ownership with a supportive team and strong operational foundation already in place. Step into a turnkey environment and build upon a respected reputation while shaping the future vision of the practice.

Inquiries: Please contact NatchDDS@gmail. com for additional details and financial information.

General dentistry practice for sale.

100% Fee for Service 4th generation private practice located in a suburb of New Orleans metro area. Stand alone building with 6 op-eratories and 7th plumbed. Building also available for purchase. Past 3 years average collections is $1,204,120 on a 4-day work week. Fully digital with a CBCT. Email lsudentist7@ gmail.com if interested.

LDA Journal • Summer 2026 37

We are seeking a motivated general dentist to join our busy, modern, and well-established dental practice.

Our office has proudly served the community for over a decade and maintaining a strong, high-volume PPO insurance patient base. We offer competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits package with per diem to start and opportunities for long term growth.

The schedule would be Monday through Fridays 8-5 PM but off on Thursdays. If you are a patient-focused provider looking to join an expe-rienced team in a thriving practice, we would love to hear from you.

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 535 N. Causeway Blvd Mandeville, LA 70448 Email: careers@grandfamilydentalcare.com Website: https://www. grandfamilydentistry.com/contact-us/ north-causeway-blvd-location/

ISO dentist to cover maternity leave, 4-6 weeks end of September.

Single doctor private practice in Baton Rouge. Willing to be flexible on hours/days.

Call (225) 485-3539 Sulphur Dental Office and Equipment for sale, 210 N. Cities Service Hwy., Sulphur, LA

Bayou Children’s Dental Center Houma, LA

Email: lamendoladentistry@yahoo.com Phone: (225) 644-4000 Full-Time Dentist Opportunity in Mandeville, LA – $10,000 Sign-On Bonus 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 38 LDA Journal • Summer 2026

Doctors Claudia Cavallino & Paige Gaudet are seeking a pediatric dentist OR general dentist with significant pediatric experience to join our well-established practice. Opportunity exists for Parttime or Full-time employment. We offer competitive compensation & benefits, a modern workplace environment and highly skilled clinical staff.

Anyone interested can email a CV and cover letter to cavallinoc@yahoo.com or text Dr. Cavallino directly @ (504) 251-2558 Associate General Dentist - Lafayette, LA 4 Operatories 2,800 sq ft office in a growing area $800/day minimum 30% adjusted production Digital Dentistry, Pano/CBCT, Medit, iOS Endo, Surgery, Implant, Sedation Email: vntgdelahoussaye@gmail.com Txt: (337) 739-3396

Excellent location in busy commercial district. Two operatories equipped and third operatory plumbed for dental chair and unit. Newly refurbished (2) bedroom condo for sale connected behind office, making it convenient for new dentist out of school. Call office at (337) 625-2025.

1800 sq ft, four operatory dental practice for sale in Baton Rouge Asking price is $300,000. 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.

Escape the PPO grind with this 100% Fee-for-Service gem located in a charming, historic New Orleans corridor.

This low-volume, high margin practice prioritizes patient relationships and clinical excellence over quantity. Modern equipment, a loyal patient base, and an

impeccably trained staff make this a turnkey opportunity for a clinician seeking a balanced lifestyle in the Crescent City.

Serious inquiries only. Confidentiality agreement required.

Email: boutiqueFFSsale@gmail.com Satellite Office Closing Shreveport, LA Nick G. Governale DDS, ngovna@gmail. com New Equipment for sale: ADEC 411 chairs X3, Sirona Orthophos CBCT, Air Techniques Mojave V3 suction and AirStar 30 compressor.

ASSOCIATE DENTIST Mentorship | Baton Rouge Area 65-Year Established Private Practice

Practice features 14 operatories, modern technology, and an in-house laboratory technician.

Experienced Dentists – Hit the Ground Running • Established patient schedule • Strong team support • Focus on dentistry while our team manages operations • Long-standing staff and efficient workflow • High earning potential based on productivity Position Highlights • 29% commission (≈33% independent contractor equivalent) • $800 daily guarantee during initial period • $5,000 education allowance Student Loan Repayment Opportunity • $50,000+ potential student loan repayment • ~$20,000 per additional year extension (subject to program approval) • Full-time or part-time opportunities • $3,000,000+ of treatment opportunity annually Position best suited for dentists motivated to develop strong clinical skills and produce at a high level.

Rabel Family Dental Baker / Baton Rouge Area (225)775-0160 Info@RabelFamilyDentistry.com Confidential inquiries welcome

Seeking a motivated Associate Dentist.

Ideal for new graduates seeking clinical mentorship or experienced dentists looking for a productive schedule.

• $800 Daily Guarantee – First 90 Days • New Graduates – Learn Comprehensive Dentistry • Learn procedures most associates refer out Mentorship available in: • 3rd molar extractions & oral surgery • Removable and fixed prosthodontics • Cosmetic and pediatric dentistry • Endodontics, occlusion, and implant planning • Digital dentistry including CBCT and intraoral scanning

Donald DeLatin DDS Office Closing Equipment, hand tools, handpieces, supplies, etc., for sale. 2-Siemens Dentotime X-RAY units, 2 Pelton crane overhead lights, 2 den-tal chairs, Air Techniques Vac Star 40 suction, waiting room chairs, amalgam. You can see our items at 161 Riverside Village Blvd, Brusly, LA 70719 or I can text pictures.

Email: donaldpar4@yahoo.com Cell: (225) 235-4383 Office: (225) 749-2701

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Why our classified ads are popular among Louisiana dentists:

• On average, ladental.org/ classifieds receives 450 views per month.

• We send issues of the Journal to all LDA members (about 1,900), and to additional subscribers.

Classified Advertising Online Go to www.ladental.org/classifieds

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.

Add a photo to your classified ad for just $50!

LDA Journal • Summer 2026 39

roddy AnnettetiD ve Director

LDA Execu

Jac ob DeB lieux LDA Director of Membership

Jeanne M

cFall LDA ConfereDirector of nce Serv ices 40 LDA Journal • Summer 2026

To the dentists who took time out of their schedules to testify with us during the legislative session: We can’t thank you enough. Thank you for sharing your expertise with our legislators, and know that your voice has made a difference in our advocacy.

To our nonmembers: LDA membership gives you access to all the ways we support dentists, not just the exciting legislative wins that affect all dental practices. Keeping the dental field safe is a team sport; join the team! If you want to learn about membership or join, email me at jacob@ladental.org or call (225) 926-1986.

If you have speaking experience and are interested in presenting at future LDA events, please email jeanne@ladental.org with your contact information and lecture topics to be considered.

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