MDDS Articulator Volume 17 Issue 4

ARTICULATOR MDDS

Connections for Metro Denver’s Dental Profession

Spring 2013 Volume 17, Issue 4

COMING TO IN

DENVER

2013

MOUNTAIN WEST DENTAL INSTITUTE

Pg. 16

Understanding the Biology & Biomechanics of Implant Dentistry Respecting the Boundaries 8 SE Asia Dental Missions 14 The Core Systems Your Practice Can NOT Survive Without! 18 Improving Revenue Cycle Processes: Best Practices for Increased Reimbursement 22 Estate Planning Documents Everyone Needs 27

The Beauvallon, 925 Lincoln St, Denver, CO The Articulator is a recipient of the 2012 International College of Dentists Silver Scroll Award

B

2 ANNUAL MDDS June 20-23, 2013 WEEKEND GETAWAY! nd

(Thursday to Sunday)

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ARTICULATOR MDDS

Connections for Metro Denver’s Dental Profession

Volume 17, Issue 4

MDDS Articulator

mddsdentist.com

Inside This Issue:

Editor Carrie Seabury, DDS

A Letter From the President..............4

Director of Marketing and Communications Jason Mauterer

Member Matters ..............................5

Creative Manager & Managing Editor Chris Nelson Communications Committee Anil Idiculla, DMD, Chair Jonathan Boynton, DMD Karen Franz, DDS Kelly Freeman, DDS Brandon Hall, DDS Jennifer Thompson, DDS Jeremy Kott, DDS Maria Juliana DiPasquale, DMD Nicholas Poulos, DDS Maureen Roach, DMD MDDS Executive Committee President D. Diane Fuller, DDS President-Elect Mitchell Friedman, DDS Treasurer Larry Weddle, DMD Secretary Ian Paisley, DDS Executive Director Elizabeth Price, MBA, CDE, CAE Printing Dilley Printing The Articulator is published bi-monthly by the Metropolitan Denver Dental Society and distributed to MDDS members as a direct benefit of membership.

Editorial Policy All statements of opinion and of supposed fact are published under the authority of the authors, including editorials, letters and book reviews.

They are not to be accepted as the views and/or opinions of the MDDS. The Articulator encourages letters to the editor, but reserves the right to edit and publish under the discretion of the editor.

Advertising Policy MDDS reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to accept or reject advertising in its publications for any reasons including, but not limited to, materials which are offensive, defamatory or contrary to the best interests of MDDS. Advertiser represents and warrants the advertising is original; it does not infringe the copyright, trademark, service mark or proprietary rights of any other person; it does not invade the privacy rights of any person; and it is free from any libel, libelous or defamatory material. Advertiser agrees to indemnify and hold MDDS harmless from and against any breach of this warranty as well as any damages, expenses or costs (including attorney’s fees) arising from any claims of third parties.

Inquiries may be addressed to: Metropolitan Denver Dental Society 3690 S. Yosemite St., Suite 200 Denver, CO 80237-1827 Phone: (303) 488-9700 Fax: (303) 488-0177 mddsdentist.com ©2011 Metropolitan Denver Dental Society

Spring 2013

Step Up 7: The Dental Dance-Off ....6 Understanding the Biology & Biomechanics of Implant Dentistry Respecting the Boundaries.8 MDDS Member Spotlight Nelle Barr, DMD ............................ 10 Thank You RMDC Volunteers! .............12 Volunteer Dentists Changing Lives, Demonstrating the Love of our Profession .14 10th Annual Give Kids a Smile Day... 15 Owned For You by You: Announcing Your MDDS Mountain West Dental Institute!...16

The Core Systems Your Practice Can NOT Survive Without! ..............18 Feed the Foundation - Street Kitchen Asian Bistro & Parallel 17 .................20 Improving Revenue Cycle Processes: Best Practices for Increased Reimbursement ....22 Event Calendar .............................24 Estate Planning Documents Everyone Needs ...........................................27 2013 Offers Doctors Equipment and Technology Tax Savings Opportunity ....29 Classifieds.....................................30

THE METROPOLITAN DENVER DENTAL SOCIETY PROUDLY PRESENTS THE

116 ANNUAL MEETING & SOCIETY DINNER TH

AT THE

May 16, 2013 6:00pm - 9:00pm

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS: CTC Associates, Garfield Refining, OneMind Health, Patterson Dental, US Bank, BBVA Compass Bank, Carr Healthcare, Carestream Dental, Perry & Young, Pacific Continental Bank, SAS Transitions, Summit Accounting Solutions

Member Publication

our colleagues for their outstanding community service and Society volunteerism.

Register Online Today! Visit our website at mddsdentist.com

A LETTER FROM OUR PRESIDENT A Letter From the President

By D. Diane Fuller, DDS

N

ot sure where to begin. Do I talk about this year’s accomplishments, the experiences, the many kindnesses? I will try to touch on it all; and as many of my predecessors have said, “Gosh, it went by so fast!”

I will always cherish the memory of my induction at the BROWN PALACE. Tradition and “old school” are things I hold in high esteem, so it seemed the perfect venue. The tasting of Colorado wines was well received (even though I only had time for one taste), and MDDF did quite well with their silent auction. My “surrogate” Denver family honored me with their presence as did Dr. Stephanie Troeger from Houston, Texas. She was one of the three women in my dental class of 100. To my surprise and delight, so did my family from Iowa. All but one of my many dental relatives came for my induction. I felt so proud to show off my city, my dental society and the historic and beautiful Brown Palace.

To any of you who have known me since my election to the executive board in April of 2007, it is no secret that the biggest dread of my life, starting then, was the speech I was eventually going to have to give May 17, 2012. I was semi-hoping the ancient Mayan prediction of the world ending, December 21, 2012, might come a little early. But to my great surprise, I was told I did not appear nervous at all. As recently as the RMDC, Dr. Karen Foster stopped me in the exhibit hall to introduce me to a couple she was in the midst of talking with about that very speech. They had actually stayed to the end to hear it, and had talked about it all the way home that night. They said it really made them think about how hard it

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must have been to be a female in an all-male profession (unless you count one tenth of 1%...that’s one in a thousand). They said it was a shame that so few people stayed to hear it; I couldn’t believe my ears. Personally, I had felt relieved, probably the only reason I got through it. Their comments will always mean so much to me; and the bonus, I’m not afraid to do public speaking anymore!

In my wildest dreams, I never thought I would ever be able to say that!

Of course, this year will always be known as the year of achieving MDDS’s long held strategic planning goal of having our own CE Institute. Besides housing our staff, we are building our own state-of-the-art learning institute, the Mountain West Dental Institute. It will contain a lecture hall, lab facilities, four dental operatories, a sterilization area and a dining hall.

The man hours that went into this are incomprehensible, and a lot of them were done by our task force chairs, Dr. Chuck Danna and Dr. Larry Weddle, and by our executive director, Mrs. Elizabeth Price. The result of this labor will come to fruition in the gorgeous building at 9th and Lincoln.

We expect to be moved in by August of this year. Our membership should be proud.

This is the first endeavor of its kind to be done by a dental society.

The RMDC was exceptional this year and just seems to be getting better. We recently reverted back to mailing out the badges, so I had to smile when a young committee member was enthused over the fact and that she’d never seen that done before. Sometimes old is better. We have also successfully integrated technology like the mobile app and the free Wi-Fi to really enhance the RMDC experience.

mention that really touched me. One of my duties as president is to write these articles for the Articulator. After my very first one, I received a personal handwritten note from Dr. James Pearce complimenting me on it. I still have it and will always cherish it. Dr. Pearce is the epitome of the kind of doctor we should all strive to be. Back in the early 80’s there were very few endodontists in Denver and I referred to him. Almost without exception, my patients would return unable to say enough good things about him. They almost always referred to him as “such a gentleman!” He became known as the “gentleman doctor” in my office. Sometimes the smallest things can enrich our experience of life so much. It inspires me to want to do the same for others.

Finally, I’d like to encourage all of you to get involved with organized dentistry. It takes some time, but the rewards definitely make it worth your while. As dentists we can become so isolated in our own little practices and worlds, I know I was. I’m glad I was pushed out of my “comfort zone.” I know you care about this profession of dentistry.

In the end that’s all that counts. Be ethical, be professional, but most importantly, be kind.

I have just one last comment. My last night in the Presidential Suite for the RMDC, I woke a little early. As had been my custom, every chance I got, I would go to the windows of the 37th floor to take in the breathtaking view of the city and mountains. As I looked out, I beheld the full moon setting over the Rockies...there are no words to describe how unbelievably beautiful and special that was. I wish every one of you could have been there. What a way to go!

There’s one personal thing I’d like to

Articulator

Spring 2013

MEMBER MATTERS New Members - Welcome!

Dr. Wameedh W. Abdulameer Dr. Brett E. Amedro Dr. Vineet Awasthy Dr. Krystal Baumgartner Dr. Brad Berryhill Dr. John Chen Dr. Michael B. Cheng Dr. Katyleydis Del Pino Caro Dr. Narender S. Dudee

Dr. Eslam El Dawlatly Dr. Graig C. Erickson Dr. Mani Farzim Dr. David T. Garlock Dr. Shiney George Dr. Robert Gilinsky Dr. Puneeta Grover Dr. Karim Habib Dr. Johnathan Haerter

Dr. Jeff J. Hamilton Dr. Aseel D. Hasan Dr. Wade R. Hirschman Dr. Nakkana S. Jayashree Dr. Jeff D. Johnston Dr. James L. Jostes Dr. Neha Kapila Dr. Kyung J. Kim Dr. Michael T. Kostal

Dr. John W. Loberg Dr. Efren Martinez Dr. Lyndon B. Mata Dr. Tiapul Q. McCarthy Dr. Leila Meeve Chie Dr. Sarah J. Meyer Dr. Seyed H. Moosavi Dr. Trevor C. Neal Dr. Konstantin Pliev

Dr. Daniel A. Rodda Dr. Allison M. Schmidt Dr. Anuj Sharma Dr. Alfred P. Smithwick Dr. Clifton C. Speaks Dr. Margot C. Sullivan Dr. Jennifer Zipfel

MDDS Night with the Nuggets

This year’s MDDS Night with the Nuggets was a slam dunk! We had over 60 attendees and the Nuggets blew out the Chicago Bulls to continue a winning streak.

Enjoying a meal at The Tailgate Restaurant before tip off

Melissa McLellan and Chuck Bosick from VOCO America who generously sponsored the event

Dr. George Gatseos with students whose attendance was sponsored by the MDDS Member Services Committee

Dr. Gatseos, Mr. Mauterer, Mrs. Price, Dr. Weddle and Dr. Danna enjoying the game

School of Dental Medicine Hosts 29th Annual Research Day

More than 200 dental students, residents and faculty participated in the 29th Annual University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine’s (SODM) Annual Research Day Scientific Program on the Anschutz Medical Campus. The day featured highlights from both basic science and clinical research. Oral presentations were made by faculty, residents and dental students. The day concluded with approximately 35 poster presentations by students and residents.

Students explaining the research outlined in their posters. The students, residents and faculty all voted on their favorites.

mddsdentist.com

Articulator

Spring 2013

5

REFLECTIONS Step Up 7: The Dental Dance-Off

By Carrie Seabury, DDS

H

ands down, the best way

would take the lead, allowing my tired body and mind

I learned a lot during this seven year process. I think the

to relieve stress is through

to rest. I reciprocated by busting into the spotlight to

most important thing I learned is that the fine print on

dancing. As much as I

give her a little shade. I think her movements were a little

the do-it-yourself hair plug kit reads “Not effective in

dreamt

pirouetting

more graceful than mine – my toe shoes were always on

the case of ground-up building projects.” Who knew? In

across the stage at the Bolshoi

too tight and there was a rip in my tutu. Overall though, I

truth, I learned who to thank for the knowledge, support

Theatre of Russia, I discovered at

think we danced a good show.

and means to make the project happen. The building

of

the tender age of four that this feat is best left to the experts. So when one cannot do, one pays money to buy tickets to watch the ones that can do. And so begins my story. I went to see the ballet today with a dear old girlfriend of mine. I happened upon season tickets for this particular dance company when I was roaming a silent auction that benefited my son’s pre-school. When I discovered I won the tickets, my first thought was to bring my best-y, Sara. She and I have busted our way through hip-hop classes together, laughed our way through every Step-Up, Flashdance, and cheerleader movie, and now we have the privilege of putting our hair up in ballet buns, donning our favorite scarves, and getting giddy together as the gigantic red curtain rises.

During today’s performance, I felt the familiar tugs of wanting to be on stage. I caught myself several times tilting my head the direction the dancers were moving – my feet twitching to join the choreography. There was a different feel to witnessing the dance today though. I kept finding myself distracted by thoughts of the big project going on in my life right now. After seven years of research, proposals, meetings, attorneys, architects,

The majority of the project did not feel like a solo or even a duet. It felt like a massive full dance company performance. Most of the choreography was spot on but every once in a while some dude would start dancing his own jig over in the corner. The company would reel him back into the performance after a while and we would all be back in sync again. It was pretty amazing to see all the individual efforts needed to make the building launch. As we all gathered and envisioned the building going up on the empty lot, I was startled by my contractor spontaneously shouting out “Yo Dirt! Youz about to get

“There is another building project on the horizon that will directly affect all of us.

The MDDS headquarters is moving from its current location to a Denver hot spot at 9th and Lincoln.”

would never have succeeded without help from MDDS. I am very thankful for the connections I gained through my involvement in my committee and as the Articulator editor. I made connections with colleagues who gave me invaluable advice and I also connected with people in all aspects of the dental industry. For the past few years my partner and I have walked the RMDC exhibitor floor to recruit the team players needed to pull off the building project. We found all of our key players at the convention.

We were not disappointed. Without the networking opportunities that MDDS offers, I never would have found my team.

There is another building project on the horizon that will directly affect all of us. The MDDS headquarters is moving from its current location to a Denver hot spot at 9th and Lincoln. As a north-sider (wha-whaaaat?), I will admit loudly and proudly that I will NOT miss the drive to the old dank location on the south side of town. The new headquarters will house a brand new educational facility called the Mountain West Dental Institute (MWDI). It will have lecture auditoriums, dental operatories and plenty of magic unicorns and rainbows.

Any one of us will be able to hold our study clubs or

IT experts, accountants, real estate agents, contractors,

served!” That pumped us up and we prepared for the

events at this building. Some really big national programs

bankers, dental equipment reps, discussions on fire

big moment every five year old little girl dreams about.

(Academies, Institutes, etc) are talking about setting up a

hydrants and something called a water tap I have officially

Breaking ground on her very own dental building.

Denver location within this learning facility. I think it will

moved my dental practice into a new building. I have lost all the hair on my head excepting three surviving strands which turned totally white from the stress. My hair now looks like a combination of Rogue (from X-men), and

Breaking ground was the moment I had been waiting for (for many, many years). The preparation for ground breaking felt exactly like nervously waiting in the wings

change my whole approach to continuing education once the project is completed. I have been involved in some of the planning and due diligence of the project and the team leading the charge is a brilliant group of experts.

George Costanza.

to go onstage in my toe shoes and tutu. Once we broke

The process of planning and constructing the building

The Fresh Prince and Carlton Banks were waiting for me

reminds me of a dance performance. Sometimes I felt

onstage! Getting close to the finish of the building felt like

Whatever project is on your career horizon, go on and

like a solo dancer. I was alone…onstage…staring blankly

my entire team busting out the biggest Carlton Dance

get your dance on. MDDS can help you. The world has

at the back wall while my body was solely propelled by

flash mob you’ve ever seen. You ain’t seen nuttin' until

never seen moves like yours. Good luck and Step-Up!

Newton’s 1st law of motion. More often, however, the

you have seen my architect bust out the Carlton Dance…

dance felt like a duet. My practice partner, Erica and I

in a tutu.

ground it felt like discovering in an unexpected twist that

MDDS is alive and well and thriving. Quite frankly, MDDS’s Carlton dance is a true sight to see.

made our rounds across the stage. Many times Erica

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Articulator

Spring 2013

DON'T MISS THESE MDDS CE COURSES! Frontline TMJ and Facial Pain Therapy For Every Practice, Botox and Dermal Fillers Training Course I - Dr. Louis Malcmacher April 18, 19 & 20 - 8:30am-5:00pm

Metro Denver Dental Society Headquarters 3690 S. Yosemite St. Denver, CO 80237

Avoiding Problems with the Maxillary Sinus in Dentistry: An Anatomic and Case Discussion Review May 2 - 6:30pm-8:30pm

Metro Denver Dental Society Headquarters 3690 S. Yosemite St. Denver, CO 80237

Metro Denver Dental Society: Hands-on Course: State-ofthe-Art Tips, Tricks and Hands-on Techniques in Implant Overdentures for Private Practice-Dr. Robert Vogel May 24 - 9:00am-4:00pm

Metro Denver Dental Society Headquarters 3690 S. Yosemite St. Denver, CO 80237 (303) 488-9700

DON'T DELAY, SIGN UP TODAY! rmdconline.com

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Understanding the Biology & Biomechanics of Implant Dentistry Respecting the Boundaries.

By Michael Norton, BDS, FDS, RCS(Ed)

T

he intimate relationship between living tissue and artificial implant material is complex.

Some of the factors that have been known or seen to influence outcome include:

• The bio-inertness, biocompatibility and/or biotoxicity of the implant material

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•

The differential elasticity of the materials and tissues

•

The implant design

•

The primary implant stability

•

The manner by which the tissues attach to the material surface

•

The topography of the material surface

•

The presence of micromovement

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•

The implant-abutment joint design (micromovement, microleakage & platform switching)

interposed between implant surface and bone.

The importance of osseointegration is not just about a biologic response to a given metal, but more importantly it is about functional longevity. This more than anything defines clinical success and thus it emphasizes the need for us to understand the mode by which osseointegration works, since we place implants not for their own sake but to support dental restorations over the long term.

The width of these zones appeared to vary according to the implant material used and this suggests that the zonal width acts in some way as a marker of biocompatibility. The concept of a direct fusion was no longer tenable and other explanations for the clinical and experimental impact of osseointegration have been sought.

In particular it became clear that if fusion was not the key to osseointegration, then macro- and microscopic surface topography were essentially responsible for biomechanical retention.

By the mid 1980’s ultrastructural studies on the bone to implant interface were being carried out with the help of scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The result of these studies was the categorical confirmation that a fusion between implant and bone did not exist. In fact there were always two distinct zones of organic material

Certainly it is easy to see how the macroscopic threading of an implant might aid resistance to axial forces, and with the recent advent of the tapered implant design it is also possible to maximize initial primary stability. Such primary stability reduces micro-movement, which has itself been implicated in the etiology of early implant failure. However it is imperative to

Articulator

Spring 2013

CLINICAL understand that this mechanical stability only accounts for the first three weeks after which remodeling results in a drop in mechanical stability and at this point early onset oseeointegration becomes vital.

Implant retention can be measured by two different modes of resistance; these are termed axial interfacial tensile strength and rotational interfacial shear strength.

It can be assumed that resistance to rotation may be the result of increased mechanical bone-implant-interlocking by microscopic surface roughening or pitting, which would then suggest that the strength of the interface is dependant on the strength of bone and the proportion of bone at the interface, which is mechanically interlocked with the implant. This is easy to understand when one considers the resistance of bony threads between implant threads, and the force required to fracture those threads but perhaps less clear at the microscopic level.

would be incorporated with increasing mechanical strength.

For machine prepared titanium, the surface pitting was seen to be shallow and although the macroscopic threads are of course relatively deep and provide resistance to axial forces the rotational shear stress for such implants is relatively low by today’s standards, with early torque removal studies confirming a removal torque of 30 to 60Ncm. By contrast the rough coated and grit blasted implants have surface topographies characterized by pits of varying shape and dimension, allowing plugs of mature bone to grow into the pits and effect resistance to shear forces in particular, with torques typically >150Ncm often required to unscrew these implants from bone.

“By the mid 1980’s ultrastructural studies on the bone to implant

Utilizing this knowledge it is possible to make certain assumptions regarding the bone-to-implant interface. With the aid of mathematical principles, it is possible to derive a fundamental equation that mathematically determines the strength of an implant in bone. Determining the optimal shape and dimension of a pit on the surface of an implant for maximum bone interlocking could also be derived.

interface were being carried out

The application of this mathematical equation is prefaced by knowledge that the strength of the interfacial tissues most close to the implant are weak and incapable of resisting shear. By contrast, mature bone would represent maximum mechanical strength, and the mechanical strength would therefore increase across the interface, which is known to be from 300-500nm thick for commercially pure titanium, and thus it could be assumed that the mechanical strength of the interfacial tissues increased over this distance.

did not exist.”

Clearly the surface roughness of an implant could be considered in terms of a variety of pits of varying shape and size. It was postulated that the depth of a pit would influence the proportion of mature bone able to grow into it and that for a pit depth less than the interfacial distance only weak tissues with little or no resistance to shear would be incorporated. However with increasing pit depth a plug of mature bone

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with the help of scanning and transmission electron microscopy.

The result of these studies was the categorical confirmation that a fusion between implant and bone Expanding this mathematical theme, it was also apparent that the proportion of mature bone interacting with the implant will be dependant on the number of pits on the surface, or pit density.

These mathematical findings have been corroborated in extensive experimental studies which have shown that the ideal surface roughness should be of the order of 1.5µm with recent evidence for the benefit of a superimposed nano-topography to aid an even more tenacious interfacial bond which may even have a bio-active component to it.

In addition it is widely known that bone cannot be maintained adjacent to a machined collar with bone loss typically occurring down to the first thread within the first 6 months of loading. One reason postulated for this is the absence of a propitious load transmission in the absence

of the interfacial interlocking described above. However multiple studies utilizing a roughened implant surface with a the addition of a coronal micro-threaded portion have consistently demonstrated insignificant marginal bone loss. Such a dramatic contrast provides weighty evidence for the impact of the biomechanical theory proposed.

Of course there has been considerable speculation about the role of the implantabutment connection with respect to marginal bone levels, with experimental studies identifying the horizontal and vertical position of the microgap as being an over-riding factor. The concept of platform switching may have both a biomechanical as well as biological impact on the this vital area with evidence that the load transmission through an external hex-top design without platform switching was less favorable than with platform switching such as through an internal conical joint.

In addition to the above microleakage has been indicated as the source of a peri-implant inflammatory infiltrate, which may itself cause crestal bone loss. In clinical reality all of the above will play a part in stabilization of the marginal bone.

Today there is a clear convergence in implant designs which support the statements made in this article, with a diversity of third generation micro-roughened surfaces, all of which creep ever closer to the top of the implant where there is now a routinely applied micro-threading. In addition we are seeing a gradual shift towards internal connections, which would seem to create more propitious conditions for the preservation of crestal bone and are also known to provide a more rigid connection from a mechanical standpoint, thereby reducing screw joint failures, which are themselves associated with fistula formation and marginal bone loss.

In combination with our greater understand ing for tissue handling, new clinical techniques such as immediate placement and immediate loading, these developments will continue to result in greater predictability from both a biological and mechanical perspective, as well as impacting upon healing times, and the diversity of areas which can be treated, such as the posterior maxilla, with improved long-term clinical success.

Articulator

Spring 2013

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MEMBER MATTERS MDDS Member Spotlight Nelle Barr, DMD Children's Dentistry in Westminster Have you enjoyed serving as committee chair for 2014 RMDC? When I was asked to be chair of RMDC in 2014 I was honored but scared. I wondered if I could meet all the challenges that chairing this large, important meeting would require. I am so glad that I said “Yes.” It has been a wonderful experience.

I have a newfound respect for everyone who volunteers their time and efforts to organized dentistry. I feel so fortunate to get to work with such a good group of volunteer dentists. The staff at MDDS is outstanding and deeply committed. They truly are the best. There would not be an RMDC without them.

I have made many new friends. Thanks to my relationship with Dr. Karen Foster, I have sourdough starter from Skagway, Alaska. I have made sourdough bread, pancakes and muffins. I think I will try sourdough scones next.

I knew nothing about parliamentary procedure. I was really stressed about running a meeting. My friend Shelly Fava came through for me and gave me a book. It was not a boring read at all. I can now competently chair a meeting. I do take a lot of ribbing when I pull out my paper clipped and highlighted book to reference. Did you know that as a committee chair you can make a motion, second a motion and even vote!

I got to scout a meeting. That’s hard. Lots of walking, standing, note taking and just plain work. After two days of that I was pooped. Of course I want to do it again because it was invaluable. The RMDC must have high quality speakers that we know firsthand are good.

We can’t guess that they are OK. They must be seen in action. I plan to scout the Pacific Northwest Dental Conference this summer. I will be a veteran so no high heels or heavy briefcase.

2. It fosters networking with colleagues.

3. As a group, organized dentists can influence oral health policies on a local and state level.

4. It is the trusted resource where the general public can get current accurate information about all aspects of oral health care.

5. It is a source of information on business issues regarding practice management and ownership.

Who introduced you to organized dentistry?

My father, Dr. Vincent Barr, was a general dentist in private practice in Frankfort, Kentucky. He was extremely involved in The Bluegrass Dental Society (his local dental organization) and the Kentucky Dental Association. I witnessed him working tirelessly for both organizations. He held every office in each of these groups and most offices twice. I probably went to my first dental meeting as a baby in my mother’s arms.

Has your involvement in our society made an impact on your satisfaction in your dental career?

I feel very lucky to belong to such a strong component society. MDDS is large enough to sponsor RMDC and to have the Mountain West Dental Institute (MDDS’s new hightech, hands-on dental learning facility to open in August 2013). Yet small enough that its members can contribute. Dentistry has done so much for me; I am compelled to give back. MDDS and MDDF have given me a way to contribute at a local level.

Who is your mentor/hero?

I am confident that 2014 RMDC will be a success because of the experienced, competent MDDS staff and all the wonderful volunteer dentists. RMDC has a reputation of excellence. This tradition will live on. I am trying to be a good leader. Mostly I am having fun helping to plan a meeting for a profession that I love.

My sister, Dr. Betty Barr, is the person I want to emulate. She is the best dentist because she is hardworking, intelligent, constantly reading dental research, loves her patients, loves her staff and never tires of trying to make herself a better dentist. I am so lucky to have practiced with her for 20 years. I hope I am a fraction of the dentist she has become.

She’s a wonderful role model. She pushes me to be better and better.

Why is the RMDC important to you? What do you gain from the annual meeting?

How is your position on the MDDF board blending with involvement with MDDS?

RMDC is a wonderful opportunity to get high quality CE locally. The speakers are excellent and there is a diverse selection of topics. RMDC provides reliable and relevant CE The information makes me and my staff better. I must be the best I can be for the patients I am lucky enough to treat. They deserve to have a dentist that practices with current knowledge, materials and equipment.

MDDF is MDDS’s charity. I view them as a unit. They are two separate entities but without each other neither one is whole.

I love browsing the exhibit hall. I can see and compare all the latest products from different companies in the same venue. It is a good way to check out all the new technology.

The meeting is great for networking. The reputation of the meeting brings dentists and their staff from all over Colorado and the surrounding states making it a unique opportunity to visit and share ideas with colleagues.

Why did you join organized dentistry?

The ADA has 150 reasons why you should be a member. I have five: 1. It provides an invaluable source of quality, relevant CE. The publications contain juried

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research articles. The meetings offer reliable lectures.

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What is your favorite part about your daily life as a dentist?

Working with my two partners, Dr. Betty Barr and Dr. Sean Whalen and my staff.

Because of them I try hard to the best I can be. They elevate my game. I don’t want to let them down. I am surrounded by wonderful colleagues. They make my life richer.

Why did you start in this field?

My father told me to be a dentist. It seemed like a good career. He never complained about his job; he loved it. When I was 16 years old I decided that I wanted to be a dentist.

Tell us more about your family.

My husband of 14 years is Larry Duane. He’s a retired banker and now is a part-time flight instructor. I have two sisters, Betty, that you know, and Susan. Susan works for Headstart

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Spring 2013

in Sandpoint, Idaho. My father is 101 years old. Betty and I moved him from Kentucky to Westminster, Colorado two years ago. We visit him everyday. One of us takes him home on the weekends. I have three dogs and one cat. Our youngest dog, Molly, is 10 months old. Molly doddle bug is a cutie and so much fun. Larry is glad to have a new bird hunting buddy.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

expression “that was worse than pulling teeth.”

As I mentioned, I love watching UK basketball. I was watching recently when the announcer on ESPN was commenting about another game when he said “that game was so bad it was worse than having a root canal.” We need more dentists like Hermey the elf in Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.

Daddy and I are building a model railroad layout. “O” gauge Lionel track and accessories are all over the garage. Now we are working on farm scenery. It is really coming along.

All our scenery is “home made.” We went to tree making school at the Caboose in downtown Denver and have spent hours making fir trees.

I enjoy cooking. Thanks again to Karen Foster for the sourdough starter.

I love to keep moving whether it’s walking, hiking, biking or even running on the treadmill.

I enjoy reading. One of my favorite authors is James Herriot. That’s his pen name of course. His most famous work is "All Creatures Great and Small". I can really relate to his stories as a practicing vet. It parallels what I experience daily. I think it’s a great read for all dentists.

The 9Health Fair is in need of volunteers for the spring fairs!

Volunteering for the 9Health Fair is a great way to participate in a group activity, build resume experience and be a community health advocate. Volunteer opportunities include: Medical Non-Medical Blood Draw

The family schedule revolves around watching the University of Kentucky play basketball. We must watch the team. That’s an unspoken necessity for all University of Kentucky alumnae. Plus they need me.

Height/Weight/Body Mass Index (BMI)

What would you like to change/improve about our profession?

Ask a Medical Question

There are numerous things I would like to see changed or improved. One thing that comes to the forefront of my mind is the negative image that the entertainment world gives dentistry. I would like to see that change. The Bill Cosby dental routine where his lip is numb - yes it’s funny but it also portrays dental care as the horrible experience.

Then there is the sadistic dentist in Little Shop of Horrors and I hate hearing the

Vision / Dental / Skin

Get a Referral

Registration Volunteer Assistant Customer Service Representative Outreach / Promotion Event Logistics

Contact Christy Dunn at christyldunn@gmail.com or (303) 996-2123 for more information.

Thank You for Making the 2013 RMDC Such a Great Success!

Entrance to the 2013 RMDC Exhibit Hall

Opening session with Mr. Tim Gard

Attendees participating in Dr. John Alonge’s hands-on course

2013 RMDC Exhibit Hall

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he 2013 Rocky Mountain Dental Convention could not have been such a success without you!

We would like to extend a warm “Thank you” to all of our attendees, exhibitors, sponsors, and especially our volunteers. We look forward to seeing you all at the 2014 RMDC.

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Volunteers: Ms. Kristin Adkins Dr. Roger Anderson Ms. Stephanie Anderson Dr. Justin Baltz Ms. Kristen Barden Ms. Pat Barga Ms. Lauren Barnes Dr. Nelle Barr Dr. Edward Barrett Dr. Eric Beckman Dr. George Beilby Ms. Myra Bender Dr. Darren Bennett Dr. Gary Blumenschein Dr. Roger Boltz Dr. Paul Bottone Dr. Clyde Bowden Dr. Janie Boyesen Ms. Amy Brookes Dr. Sarah Broten Dr. Kenneth Burson

Ms. Lori Cackovic Dr. Lisa Carlson-Marks Dr. Marc Carpenter Dr. G. Garo Chalian Ms. Linda Chin Dr. Nick Chiovitti Ms. Heather Craft Ms. Chelsey Crawford Dr. Thomas Croghan Dr. Eric Dale Dr. Charles Danna Dr. Erica Derby Dr. Jennifer Derse Dr. Robert Devin Dr. Michael Diorio Dr. Terry Egert Dr. Laura Ellefson Dr. Karen Foster Mr. Curtis Foster Ms. Jan Foster Dr. Karen Franz Dr. Mitch Friedman Ms. Debbie Friedman

Attendees enjoying the Friday Night Party

Dr. David Weber speaks at the RMDC

Attendees enjoying visual aids during courses offered at the 2013 RMDC

Attendees entering the Expo Hall for the first time at the 2013 RMDC

Attendees testing out various products in the Exhibit Hall

Dr. Diane Fuller Ms. Becky Garrison Ms. Janet Gatseos Dr. Paul Glick Dr. Richard Goad Ms. Anneshia Gonzales Ms. Andrea Glover Dr. Brian Gurinsky Dr. Alan Gurman Dr. Douglas Heller Ms. Chris Hillenbrand Ms. Alyssa Jauregui Dr. Collis Johnson Dr. Jed Jultak Dr. Kai Kawasugi Ms. Janelle Kemmerling Dr. Don Kleier Dr. David Klekamp Ms. Jennifer Klekamp Ms. Norma Korinek Dr. Beth F. Kreider Dr. Brett Levin Dr. Ken LeVos

Dr. Justin Liddle Dr. Clifford S. Litvak Dr. Jeffrey T. Lodl Dr. Scott Maloney Ms. Brittany McDonald Ms. Stacey McKee Ms. Brenda McNulty Dr. Deborah Michael Ms. Trease Miller, RDH Ms. Lori Mirelez Ms. Misty Mitchell Dr. Sheldon Newman Ms. Chrissy Oihus Dr. Michael Okuji Dr. Ian Paisley Ms. Kimberly Parsons Dr. Patrick Prendergast Dr. John Raabe Ms. Marina Rabinovich Ms. Rebekah Reed Ms. Stephanie Riddell Ms. Micaiah Rogers Dr. Eric Rossow

Dr. Ellen Sachs Ms. Sara Salter, RDH Ms. Peggy Schafer Dr. Michael Scheidt Mr. Todd Scherr Dr. Carrie Seabury Dr. Babak Shahrokh Dr. Amy Shearer Dr. Mark Shimoda Ms. Veronica Shubert Ms. Grace Snearline Ms. Kristy Stallsworth Ms. Jessica Stein Ms. Laura Tappero Dr. Andrea Taylor Dr. Robert Teitelbaum Dr. Hadley Thurmon Dr. Eric W. Van Zytveld Dr. Kenneth Versman Dr. Dawn Wehking Ms. Cathy Winter Dr. Randall Wise Dr. Hesham Youssef

Friday Night After Party at Suite 200

2013

10

CELEBRATING

S C H ED U L E

YEARS

NE XT T HRE E E VE N T S April 11 BioHorizons

Stability · Strength · Service

Complications in Implant Dentistry: Treatment Planning and Restorative Concepts to Minimize Failures and Improve Treatment Outcomes Dr. Aldo Leopardi, Prosthodontist Greenwood Village, Colorado June 20 Implant Direct

Effective and Efficient Abutment or Implant Level Protocols for the Partially Edentulous Patient

Dr. John S. Cavallaro, Jr., Prosthodontist Brooklyn, New York August, 2013 - New Location*

Treatment Planning Session: DISC Members Patient Case Discussions Dr. Aldo Leopardi, Prosthodontist Greenwood Village, Colorado *New MDDS location: Beauvallon Building 925 Lincoln Street, Denver, CO 80203

Location: MDDS Building 3690 S. Yosemite Street Denver, Colorado 80237 Time: 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM

Complimentary light dinner at 5:30 PM. Lecture begins promptly at 6:00 PM. CE credits are available. Fees for 2013 are waived due to corporate sponsorship.

Please Note: Capacity is limited. If interested in attending, please call 720.488.7677 to reserve your place.

SCAN THIS CODE FOR THE FULL SCHEDULE OR VISIT: www.knowledgefactoryco.com/discschedule

CONTA C T

Did you realize we offer: • Malpractice Coverage - Administrator of the Dentists Professional Liability Trust • Workers Compensation - Low Rates • Business owners Package - tailored to your needs • Medical Insurance - Personal and Group • Disability - True own occupation • Business Disability • Business Insurance • Life Insurance • ERISA Bonds • Employment Practices Liability Coverage • Group Disability • Long Term Care • Home and Auto

T O R . S . V. P.

Aldo Leopardi, BDS, DDS, MS Prosthodontist /// P. 720.488.7677 /// F. 720.488.7717

mddsdentist.com

2000 S Colorado Blvd, Annex Building, Suite 410 Denver, CO 80222

Phone: (303) 357-2600 Fax: (866) 699-1559 Toll Free: (877) 502-0100

www.dentalliability.com

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MISSION STORIES

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Volunteer Dentists Changing Lives: Surgical Missions in Southeast Asia

By Maria Juliana DiPasquale, DMD

uring my residency training I had the privilege of participating in in four days. Surgeries provided include: Repair of cleft lip and palate, removal two surgical mission trips. The first trip took me to the Philippines of lesions (hemangiomas and other benign tumors), removal of parotid tumors, revision of burn scars, thyroidectomy and the second to Vietnam. Since cleft lip and herniorrhaphy. The most remarkable thing and palate is statistically more common about mission trips is that patients and their among Asians, that part of the world is a common families are beyond grateful for our services. destination for surgical mission trips. My very first Providing care in an underserved, rural and mission trip to the Philippines in 2009 proved to be poverty stricken area of the world makes you the most exciting thing I did during my residency. realize how important your services can be to In January 2013, I had the opportunity to return someone. The appreciation you get from those to the Philippines for another surgical mission patients reminds you of why you wanted to trip. A group of two maxillofacial surgeons, two pursue your career in the first place. The sense plastic surgeons and three general surgeons plus of accomplishment and community service at four anesthesiologists and two surgical assistants 1 year old patient before and after cheiloplasty composed our surgical team. Together, we were able the end of the trip is beyond any other. to provide a total of 84 surgeries to the community

Demostrating the Love of our Profession while Helping Someone in Need

By Dr. Makala Hubbell, DDS

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s dentists we have skills that allow us to alleviate pain and discomfort, to enhance someone’s smile and to improve a persons overall health. By participating in a mission trip or community based day-of-service, these skills are shared with people who often have never experienced dental care. In these settings we are able to demonstrate the love we have for our profession while helping someone in need.

I had the opportunity to join a medical and dental mission trip to Ecuador in 2012. I was joined on this adventure by my clinical assistant, Kate. We traveled with a team of medical providers including physicians, nurses and pharmacists.

We met the members of the team in Quito and then traveled to Catamayo, a small community nestled in the Andes mountains.

Kate and I set up our dental clinic in a run down hospital using an examination table as our dental chair. We provided basic services to patients of all ages including cleanings, restorations and extractions. We worked each day until the sun began to set. Often, we had to move our table to chase the setting sun in order to have sufficient light to work.

Each morning, our bus would arrive at the clinic and we would be greeted by

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the people hoping to receive medical or dental care. There were so many people seeking care that it seemed nearly impossible to meet all their needs; yet each day the team was able to provide each and every person with a service. We would often hear stories of people that walked from neighboring towns to receive care, many spending the night in line to ensure they were able to be treated.

In order to serve the children of the community, we set up an outdoor hygiene station. Under the tents we would provide each child with a toothbrush, toothpaste, home care instructions, a cleaning with their new toothbrush and a fluoride application. For many of these children, this was their first experience with a toothbrush and toothpaste.

One of the most rewarding aspects of this trip was the opportunity to meet people from a small community in a remote part of the world. Our conversations were challenging due to the language barrier. Yet, I was still reminded of the universal nature of people – a smile, a handshake, a hug. It means the same in any language. These expressions of gratitude become the moments you treasure and the reward you have earned.

I encourage you to participate in a mission trip. The options are endless with opportunities both international as well as day-of-service in your community. The services that you provide are sure to be life changing – not only for the person receiving care but also for yourself.

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Spring 2013

NON PROFIT NEWS

10th Annual Give Kids a Smile Day

S

ince the American Dental Association began the Give Kids a Smile program in 2003, it has gone from a one-day event, to local and national events year-round.

Dentists and dental professionals volunteer time and services to treat and educate children throughout the United States. Each year approximately 450,000 children benefit nationwide from GKAS. MDDS would like to thank all of you that volunteer your valuable time.

Colorado Orthodontic Foundation Screens 50+ Kids in Need at 4th Annual “Give Kids a Smile” Screening Day

By Alexandra Gage, Managing Director, COF

Practicing brushing at Dr. Makala Hubbell’s office

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n Friday, February 1st, 2013, dental organizations and offices across the United States participated in the American Dental Association’s nationwide initiative to “Give Kids a Smile.” The Colorado Orthodontic Foundation (COF), which aims to provide orthodontic health care to low-income families across the state, hosted their 4th annual “Give Kids a Smile” orthodontic screening day as part of this initiative. On these screening days, local orthodontists generously donate their time and skill to determining whether these deserving patients are in need of orthodontic treatment. The idea in providing these free screenings is to educate families about the benefits of orthodontics as well as potentially enroll these patients into the COF orthodontic treatment program.

On February 1st, Dr. Cassy Wiggins of Summit Orthodontics generously donated her whole day at the Adams Tri-County Health Clinic in Commerce City to screening eligible patients and determining preliminary treatment plans.

A young patient and mother at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine

This year came with a change however, as the COF was proud to prolong the Give Kids a Smile screenings by also hosting screenings in the new Colorado Springs KIND/COF clinic location!

On Monday, February 4th, Dr. Chad Watts and Dr. Jenee Kaplan of Rangewood Orthodontics arrived at the Colorado Springs clinic ready to lend their expertise to screen over 20 kids in need!

In total, our COF orthodontists performed screenings on over 50 kids, which is a record for the organization. Our patients traveled from all over the front range and even as far as Trinidad to attend the screenings, further illustrating the importance of the orthodontic program that the COF provides.

On this kind of screening day, each patient is seen in turn and examined for the potential to receive orthodontic treatment—if they are determined to be a good candidate for treatment, they will sign a contract with the COF and wait to be placed with a local orthodontist who has agreed to take on COF cases.

The COF is constantly looking for new orthodontists willing to become COF Providers. More information can be found on their website at www.thecof.org.

The COF is so excited to have been involved in Give Kids a Smile day for another year, and thrilled to be placing patients throughout the Denver Metro and Colorado Springs Areas.

Interested in hearing more about the Colorado Orthodontic Foundation? Please visit our website at www.thecof.org or call (303) 501-3691.

Treating a patient at Dr. Mitch Friedman’s office

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MWDI NEWS

Owned For You by You: Announcing Your MDDS

MOUNTAIN WEST DENTAL INSTITUTE!

By MWDI Task Force Co-Chairs, Charles Danna, DDS & Larry Weddle, DMD our Society’s core strength, our ability to provide high quality CE locally and at a low price, MDDS can offer courses that do in fact add value to our members’ practices and keep them motivated with new skills and fresh approaches. Before spending time and money on researching the feasibility of the facility, the Board hired an outside company to perform

A

t the RMDC in January Elizabeth Price, MDDS Executive Director, was given direction by the MDDS Board of Directors to sign off on the floor plans of the new Mountain West Dental Institute (MWDI). This was the one of the final steps in starting the construction of MDDS’s new educational center. The MWDI construction completion date is set for early August, 2013.

The idea of the MWDI was first formulated at an Applied Strategic Planning session held by MDDS in 2008. The plan, however, was delayed until 2011.

During that three-year span, MDDS struggled through the recession, underwent a complete reorganization of the dues structure, Board and staff which included hiring a new executive director and revamped and revitalized the RMDC. In part, some of the changes made at the RMDC brought up the goal, once again, of having a hands on learning center.

The much admired Dawson Academy presented their introductory course at a convention for the first time at the 2010 RMDC. The success of these courses and the discussions of possibly having The Dawson Academy become a more frequent presence in our area gave new interest in the center. Another reason the idea of creating a hands on learning center was brought back to the table was due to the changing economy and face of membership in our society.

Members are demanding more value for their dues.

To add membership value means MDDS needs to offer more benefits that add profits and proficiencies to our members’ practices and lives. By focusing on

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Importance of Hands-On CE Institute

R to L – Elizabeth Price, MDDS Executive Director; Dan Brown, Owner, BVB General Contractors LLC; Joseph Church, Owner, Joe Architect; Dr. Charles Danna, MWDI Task Force Chairman; James Vigesaa, Owner, BVB General Contractors.

extensive marketing research to not only guide the 2012-2015 Applied Strategic Plan for the society but to research whether or not the membership wanted and would benefit from owning a hands on learning center. The marketing research concluded that the membership does support MDDS building a hands on learning center. See graph results below Under the direction of the Board of Directors in 2011, a task force was formed to explore the feasibility of creating this center. The Task Force is chaired

by Drs. Larry Weddle and Charles Danna. There was an enormous amount of data that needed to be accumulated before the actual process could be started. First officers and task force members sat down with the directors of The Dawson Academy including Dr. Peter Dawson himself. This was the first time that

Most Appealing Features/Benefits

Dr. Dawson had travelled west of the Mississippi in several years. He had been impressed by the reception his course had received at the RMDC and wanted to experience it and lecture at it personally. During the discussion, The Dawson Academy stated that they desired a permanent presence at the RMDC and in Denver. They indicated that if MDDS built an educational center they would likely replace their Chicago center with a Rocky Mountain Dawson Academy and possibly use our center for the entire western region. The MDDS Board agreed that an alliance such as this would provide a great deal of exposure for the learning center while securing a highly valuable tenant.

The next task was to send scouts to various learning centers around the country to investigate the setups and requirements for such facilities. Carr Healthcare Realty was enlisted to start searching for buildings with a central, downtown location for the institute.

Dr. Weddle, Christian Gile of Carr Healthcare Realty and Ms. Price visited countless sites, and after several months of searching, a location in Denver was identified at 9th and Lincoln in the prestigious Beauvallon building. The plan to go forward with building the institute was approved and the retail/office condo unit was approved for purchase by the board of directors as the future home for the MWDI and MDDS. The current Society building that houses CDA and MDDS was sold to a group of MDDS member specialists, Professional Periodontics and Implant Dentistry. For the first time in years, MDDS and CDA will be housed in different locations. The new MDDS location will also house the administrative offices and the Metropolitan Denver Dental Foundation (MDDF). There will be an auditorium that can seat up to 140 people and can be divided into two smaller rooms with full audio visual and web broadcasting capabilities. The auditorium will also feature a lab bench set-up for

Impact on CE Classes Taken at MDDS

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M In

State-of-the-Art CE Facility features:

140 seat Auditorium

•

Banquet Hall

•

Board Room

•

All spaces are fully equipped to capture and stream EXIST doo ors to be replaced d with solid doors (t swing (to g into Lobby))

live video (including operatories)

Screen

•

Moveable Wall

Large wet lab with state-of-the-art digital imaging

Screen

•

Ramp p Up p

Hands-on learning lab benches for 40 participants Four (4) educational operatories Surgical area that can be utilized for live surgery & prosthetics

•

- Hallway -

• •

•

Other capabilities include intraoral scanning and chairside milling, digital treatment planning

•

Ability to offer CE in multiple formats: live patient procedures, hands-on demos, lectures, online remote participation in live courses. e-

40 students, equipped with electric hand pieces, lighting, dust collectors and power at each station.

There is a dining room as well as an executive conference room that seats 20. The jewel of the center will be the four dental operatories where patient demonstration and hands-on courses can be conducted. These Midmark operatories will have intra-oral cameras, monitors, radiography capability, a sterilization center and one operatory that can be isolated for surgical procedures. There will also be a wet lab and an imaging room with a Planmeca 3-D system.

The MWDI will be equipped to accommodate a large variety of activities and courses including implants, ortho, endo, lasers, perio, basic certification courses such as nitrous, CPR and OSHA. The facility will also have the ability to perform webcasts of the courses. The MWDI will be the premier dental educational center in the region. It will serve as the new home for the various dental study clubs in the Denver area. It will enable dentists to receive high quality dental continuing education without having the expense of traveling out of state. With the fabulous downtown location this will also be a destination for out of state dentists seeking dental CE. MWDI will be a welcome alternative for companies offering courses that are currently presented in makeshift hotel settings.

Having access to this great clinic setting will afford the MDDF and its programs luxuries that it has never had before. MDDF will now have the capability to screen Smile AgainTM patients

mddsdentist.com

and expand their mission, further develop the Explorers Program as well as their dental education center, all helping the Foundation to grow by leaps and bounds. The MDDS Peer Review Committee will be able to use the center for screening patients.

The Institute will give MDDS and its members a prominent presence in the Denver area. Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper and the Department of Public Health identified oral health as one of our ten winnable battles. MDDS will position the use of the MWDI to help further this initiative by offering CE courses to help educate dentists and physicians on how to serve an even wider variety of patients.

It has not been an easy process to get to this point in the project. MDDS has relied on the expertise of various professionals and donations from our wonderful supporters. With input from the task force and staff, JoeArchitect has designed and partially sponsored a state of the art learning center.

BVB Construction is the project general contractor and also partial sponsor. Rudy Wolf and Jim Ferrell from Henry Schein have stepped up to assist with and sponsor the procurement of most of the dental equipment. Midmark will be filling the operatory with top-of-the-line equipment. Planmeca’s 3D imaging system will grace our imaging room giving the facility the capability to host a wide variety of in-depth specialty courses. The E4D’s Dentist CAD/CAM system will be available for learning involving indirect restorations. Carr Healthcare Realty has helped in the process of acquiring the location and selling the Society building. We have

the expertise of Bill MacDonald from Spectrum AV insuring that our rooms are built to accommodate a high quality, high tech educational expertise.

The task force has had help and input from Joan Forrest, Executive Director of The Dawson Academy, who recently oversaw the building of their institute in Florida. Real estate attorneys, forensic structural engineers, our own Colorado Convention Center event planners, professional fundraisers, investment managers and IT experts all have helped us get to this point in the planning.

Dr. George Gatseos, Professor at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine, has given his expertise on OSHA and sterilization as it pertains to a dental educational setting. There will be several more companies, individuals and sponsors that will become involved in the development of the MWDI. Currently, MDDS is seeking sponsors for the center offering naming rights and signage recognition throughout the building.

This center will not be successful without the support of the members of MDDS and various dental companies. Members must recognize that this is a member benefit. This is something that was designed to help the members acquire and develop their dental skills. MDDS surveyed all members: the request that had stood out was demand for more lectures and hands-on courses. In developing the MWDI, it is envisioned that this center will help transition the younger dentists into the practice of dentistry. The first hands-on institute owned by local organized dentistry, it is going to be the legacy of all of the current MDDS members and supporting vendors. As a member, you can support the center by donations, speaking to suppliers about sponsorship opportunities and by taking courses at the institute. The dental companies can benefit from sponsorship by having their vendors showcased to the various attendees at the center.

They can also market their products and services through the center.

Donate now to the MWDI and get your name on the donor wall! Large sponsorship opportunities and naming rights are also available.

Got to www.mddsdentist.com for more infomation or call Elizabeth Price at (303) 488-9700 After a lot of hard work and thinking outside of the box, this institute is going to become a reality. This facility will benefit dentists, their staff and patients in the surrounding regions and in our community.

It will help MDDF reach its full potential, enable better training of dental teams and help build strong camaraderie among the members. The MDDS Board also hopes that a prestigious institute will develop an attraction for the younger dentists to become members of MDDS for years to come.

Hopefully, the MWDI will become an important part of every member’s dental career.

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PRACTICE MANAGEMENT

The Core Systems Your Practice Can NOT Survive Without!

By 2013 RMDC Speaker Karla K. Gunner, Gunner Consulting, LLC

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ecently, I visited a practice that was “spinning” out of control and their biggest question was whether to sell the practice or to borrow more money to cover payroll and bills. What made their decision even more grueling was that most of their personal assets (family homes) were already used as collateral and the success of the practice was dependent upon not losing them.

When I asked them some basic questions about the statistics of the practice, they proceeded to tell me that they went to school to be a dentist, not to learn how to be a manager or how to hire employees or how to be a tech savvy person handling hardware/software issues and certainly not how to be a “salesperson.” I hear this A LOT from dentists. The good news is that managing a practice is not rocket science. All you need are the right people with abilities, right attitudes and the right systems. Now, that may sound pretty easy but hold on, not so fast. The success that you desire as a dentist truly starts and stops with you!

So, what are the right “core” systems you need to implement in order to have a successful practice?

Below are a few systems that you can implement today:

Key Ingredients to “excel” in Customer Service: If you looked at a few dental office websites, I bet that most of them would have a similar theme about patient care and customer service. “Here at Dr. Rudy Smith's Practice, Our goal is to provide you with the highest quality dentistry in a professional, caring environment with personalized care. We love our patients!” So, WHAT sets you apart from the dentist across the street? How do you DELIVER that personalized care that you so boldly promised?

First Ingredient: Listen, listen and (speak) acknowledge that you heard what they were saying and REPEAT. Everything you need to know about “how” to service your patient comes from THEM, not you. It is 100 percent about their experience, period. Just remember the old saying; you have TWO ears and only ONE mouth.

Listen, listen and (speak) acknowledge that you heard what they were saying and repeat.

Second Ingredient: Be A+-LIVE. Give Great LIVE customer service.

Personally answer your phones. Promptly respond to all patient questions and concerns. Whoever serviced that patient, make your own follow-up/care calls. Provide ways for your patients to communicate feedback to you. There are many complimentary software services that easily obtain patient feedback

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for you. There are no excuses not “hearing” what your patients are saying. It is the golden nugget that sets you apart from other practices. Get it, hear it, implement it, and Be A+-LIVE!

• Hygiene Department Percentages (open hours/ production/overdue patients)

Third Ingredient: Meet and greet - Pleases and thank you. This may sound basic to most of you, but, it is still the number one complaint patients have that about their dental office. Meet and greet example: When I am scheduling a new patient on the phone, I say, “I look forward to meeting you, Mrs. Jones.” Now, when I notice at the morning huddle that she is coming in today, I make sure that I am excited for her arrival and am available to greet her. Pleases and thank you example: Niceties have become rarer these days yet a huge thing that will set your practice apart is how we talk with the patient. It is the simple pleases and saying thank you that will continue to make patients feel like you are a level or two above the rest. “Thank you Mrs. Jones for coming in today. It was a pleasure to meet you.” A little bit of awareness and kindness will make a difference every time you service your patients.

• Number of new patients

Fourth Ingredient: Create connections with your patients that will withstand the test of time. If your schedule is more open, spend more time with your patients. Learn what is important to them. How can you focus on what the patient wants? How can you make them feel special in your practice? Involve your staff in coming up with new ways to engage and work with patients.

The ultimate goal is for the patient to leave thinking: “I made the right choice by coming here.” I encourage you to gather your team together and take on this project. It will help you keep your practice busy while focusing on what matters most — serving your patients.

The key to “knowing” your numbers: In today’s economic times, it is NOT enough to “know” what your numbers are but you need to know “what” to do with the information. That is the key. The first step is to know “what” numbers you need to track. Here are a few areas: • Overhead of the practice • Daily doctor percentages (open hours/production/ unscheduled treatment)

• Number of active and in-active patients

• Treatment tracking (hygiene, doctor, diagnosed, accepted) The next step is to know what you need to do to with these numbers and how to improve them (if needed). This area is not as easy. As an example, if your treatment tracking shows that only 3 out of 10 patients last week accepted and scheduled diagnosed treatment, the area of case presentation and handoffs are a focal point for training. Another example is if you are inactivating more patients than there are new patients coming in. You must ask the tough questions like, “why” are patients leaving our practice? Is it due to fees, schedule, customer service, knowledge, and a sense of urgency, confidence of doctor, explanation and reinforcement from the dental team.

Training Tip: If your schedule is not full or if you have an open hour or two, use this time wisely. Hold an impromptu team training session where you can role play handoffs between doctor and hygienist or hygienist to front office or assistant to doctor. Practice benefit statements and active listening. There is SO much that you can do with that extra time. It is an excellent team building activity that I can guarantee will be a productive way to use downtime.

Even though this is only a sampling of the “core” systems that were discussed at the RMDC workshop in January, there is one more crucial thing to discuss.

In order for any new system to become a reality, there is one question that must be asked, “Who am I willing to become in order to reach this goal or objective?” If I am the dentist and asking my team to be prepared for the days’ patients and to participate with the morning huddle, then, I will need to be willing to attend the morning huddle, on time and without distraction. No one said any of this is easy, but I can guarantee you that it can be VERY rewarding. We are people serving people. You can have the practice and working environment that you have always dreamed of. Just start with this question, who are you willing to become in order to reach this goal? I hope that you will start to make those positive changes today!

• Daily over the counter collections and totals

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Spring 2013

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303-357-2604 or 1-877-502-0100

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Spring 2013

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mddf.org

APRIL & MAY AT BOTH

By Nicholas Poulos, DDS

H

ave you fed your foundation yet? If you have, we thank you and we hope that you continue to do so. If not, this is your best opportunity yet. For the months of April AND May we have the amazing opportunity to partner with a woman who is not only the chef/ owner of two of Denver’s premier Asian eateries, but a tremendous philanthropist as well. Chef Mary Nguyen (pictured right) has agreed to join us in our quest to Feed the Foundation. She has gone above and beyond in her commitment to our cause by allowing us to dine at either of her Denver area restaurants - Parallel 17 or Street Kitchen Asian Bistro with no restrictions throughout the months of April and May. In addition to donating 10% of the tab from all MDDS member meals to the MDDS, Chef Nguyen has also pledged to donate $1 for every FaceBook check-in she gets at either restaurant (regardless if the check-in is from an MDDS member or not!) This generosity has really opened the door for us to grow this program and make it into something special. If you are reading this article, I urge you to tear this page out and pin it to your bulletin board at home or at work as a reminder. Tell your friends about it, maybe even post it on your

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10111 Inverness Main St., Englewood, CO 80112

1600 E 17th Ave, Denver, CO 80218

practice webpage. The next time the question comes up, “Where should we go for dinner?”...your answer will be right in front of you.

Chef Mary Nguyen, a Colorado native daughter of Vietnamese immigrants, and CU-Boulder graduate, opened her first restaurant, Parallel 17, to wide acclaim in 2005. The daughter or Vietnamese immigrants, Parallel 17 wittily refers to both the traditional demarcation between North and South Vietnam, as well as the restaurant’s location on the corner of 17th Avenue and Franklin Street, Chef Nguyen envisioned Parallel 17 as a modern take on traditional Vietnamese fair. The wide variety of small plates encourages a family-style dining experience, where all are invited to sample, share and enjoy. A typical meal at P17 may start off with a few shared small plates to awaken your senses. The ginger and coconut encrusted calamari has a bright citrus forward taste, with just enough spice from the fried jalepenos to kick off your evening. I also recommend that you make sure to try the steamed white asparagus dumplings. A favorite at our table, the delicate dumplings, straw mushrooms and cherry tomatoes are theatrically bathed with a table-side pour of a red curry bisque which can only be described as exquisite.

Mention you want to "Feed the Foundation" when making your reservation in April and May and 10% of your tab goes to benefit MDDF! No day restrictions! mddsdentist.com

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Winter 2012

FEED THE FOUNDATION Like the small plates, the salads, soups and entrees offered by Chef Nguyen and her team will take you on a taste tour of Vietnam. You will find traditional fare, such as Pho and Bahn Mi, only with a bit of Chef Mary’s re-imagination. I recommend you also try some of the less traditional items. Make sure that at least one person at your table (preferably someone not opposed to sharing) orders the Vietnamese coffee braised short ribs. Like the steamed dumplings from our first course, this dish was a resounding favorite amongst the diners at my table.

Nearly six years after the opening of Parallel 17, Chef Mary introduced us to the vibrant energy and exotic flavors of Asia with her new restaurant, Street Kitchen Asian Bistro. Located in The Villagio at Inverness (just east of the intersection of Dry Creek and I-25 in the Denver Tech Center), Street Kitchen was designed as a homage to food carts throughout Asia. As described on the restaurants webpage, “Have You Eaten Today?” is a common greeting in many Asian cultures reflecting the importance of food and hospitality of the region, and also the inspiration for Chef Mary’s newest masterpiece.

With an open-air kitchen and an inspiring menu consisting of traditional street-cart food from Thailand, Vietnam, Japan, China

and Malaysia, Chef Mary and her team have done it again! This is the type of place that would make famed food-traveler Anthony Bourdain proud. Bring a group of friends and enjoy a culinary tour of Asia from the comfort of a brick and mortar eatery in the Denver Tech Center. Like a meal at Parallel 17, I would strongly suggest a family-style approach to Street Kitchen. By ordering a wide selection of shared plates, you may start your evening in China with crab rangoon and sticky ribs and swing through Japan with a sushi roll or two on your way to Malaysia or Vietnam for dessert. However you chose to travel through the menu of Street Kitchen, you are sure to leave happy and eager to return for your next foodie adventure.

All proceeds from the Feed The Foundation program benefit The Metro Denver Dental Foundation. In addition to mentioning your affiliation with MDDF when making your reservation, you should also remind your server at the end of your meal. Once again, 10% of every food bill from Feed The Foundation diners from the months of April and May will be donated to MDDF. So get a group of friends together enjoy an unforgettable meal (or two) and be sure to keep a look out in future issues to see where we may be next!

W E C A R E A B O U T Y O U R S U C C E S S Dental practice transitions are about relationships.

The relationship of the doctors and between the doctors and patients. We work to build those relationships so there is trust and integrity which results in a successful, smooth transition.

CTC Associates Chatterley Transition Consulting info@ctc-associates.com

mddsdentist.com

303-795-8800

www.ctc-associates.com

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Spring 2013

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OFFICE MANAGEMENT

IMPROVING REVENUE CYCLE PROCESSES: BEST PRACTICES FOR INCREASED REIMBURSEMENT

P

atient care is always the primary focus of dentistry, with much time devoted to working directly with patients. However, if we provide services without payment—or without getting reimbursed in a timely manner— we put our practices at risk. When revenue lags, it’s difficult to fund overhead, employee training, new equipment and other things vital to maintaining high-quality services.

Business professionals within the dental industry have a responsibility to safeguard practice profitability by keeping a watchful eye on aging reports and other revenue indicators. Here are some best practices proven to keep the revenue cycle—and our practices—running smoothly and profitably.

Start the reimbursement process at scheduling A successful revenue cycle does not begin as a patient is checking out. It starts when a patient calls to schedule an appointment; that’s when reimbursement should first be addressed. Use the call to gather pertinent demographic and financial data and to ensure patients are aware of their estimated financial responsibility to be collected at the time of the appointment.

Time spent asking the right questions up front can help determine eligibility and save costly followup work later in the process. Online, real-time verification can accurately establish eligibility, coverage and estimated patient responsibility before the patient’s first visit. Two-thirds of denied claims are linked to eligibility issues, often rooted in mistaken eligibility data. By addressing discrepancies before the appointment, you can handle the issue in advance or be prepared to address it at the first appointment.

Patients are not always aware of their coverage, especially in the current economy. Employers are continually searching for ways to make dental care more affordable, so benefits change quickly. Even with an existing patient, insurance may vary from year to year and even from month to month. Being current on patient coverages builds relationships by demonstrating you care about patients’ financial

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mddsdentist.com

By Mindy Altermatt, FAADOM and dental health. Furthermore, patients who fully understand all the financial details are more likely to be comfortable following through with their treatment plans.

Consider the incredible shrinking dollar According to studies conducted by the Medical Group Management Association (MGMA), a dollar collected after 30 days is really worth 93 cents. At 60 days, it’s worth only 85 cents; one year later, its value declines to a mere 26 cents—almost a 75 percent decrease.

When you factor in employee time, every minute spent following up on a denied claim or insurance company request for more information chips away at revenue. The same amount of time—or less time spent—verifying eligibility in advance will contribute to profitability, instead of undermining it. In other words, filing claims quickly is another way to accelerate the revenue cycle.

Calculate the real cost of using “free” services Filing printed claims by mail or fax is timeconsuming, costly and makes it impossible to trace a claim’s progress. A simple error such as a missing date of birth or gender field entry can hold up a printed claim for weeks. In addition, the reason for denial is unknown until you receive it—sometimes weeks later.

Submitting claims at the insurance company website may seem like a cost-effective solution until you calculate the administrative time involved. Based on a recent industry study conducted by MDE, it takes an average of seven minutes per claim to submit on a payer’s website. For an office processing 25 claims a day, five days a week, that’s almost 15 hours per week spent re-keying data. So, if we consider someone being paid at $10 per hour, filing 25 claims a day, using the “free” payer website for one month effectively costs the practice about $475 in administrative time.

According to the same survey, real-time digital submission only takes an average of two minutes per claim. Moreover, electronic reports track claim progress within the payer’s system. If there’s an error,

you know—and can easily correct it—the same day you submit.

Stay on top with reporting tools Another best practice to increasing reimbursement is taking advantage of reporting tools. Real-time claims submission systems typically offer reports to track a claim’s progress through the revenue cycle. Two of the most useful reports—outstanding insurance reports and aging reports—should be checked at least once a month and ideally twice a month. Among the important details these reports provide: • Outstanding insurance reports show every patient account with an outstanding claim, the balance and the date the claim was submitted. Any accounts more than 30 days past due should get immediate attention.

• Aging reports—sometimes called accounts receivable reports—list all accounts receivable with the length of time they’ve been open. Drilling down will reveal exactly what’s outstanding.

By implementing these revenue cycle processes into your practice, you are sure to increase reimbursement—all while providing quality patient care. In order to reach these goals, dental business professionals must be proactive. Make the effort to research the time it takes to submit a claim by print, fax or payer website. Calculate the cost over one month. It may be a tedious process but the results are worth it. Your practice will benefit from increased profitability and improved cash flow; your patients will thank you for peace of mind; and your team members will thank for you for a more streamlined workflow.

About the Author Mindy Altermatt, FAADOM, is a revenue cycle consultant with expertise in insurance and cash flow management. She brings hands-on experience from her background as a Practice Administrator and her consultant work with Mercury Data Exchange (MDE). MDE provides revenue cycle tools that expedite payment processes for dental practices, insurance companies and patients through a combination of real-time electronic data interchange (EDI) services and retail-based, point-of-service collection tools. Mindy was also named the American Association of Dental Office Managers’ 2007 Office Manager of the Year.

Mindy.altermatt@mercurydataexchange.com

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Spring 2013

EVENT CALENDAR May 9

APRIL 2013 April 18, 19 & 20

Metro Denver Dental Society: Frontline TMJ and Facial Pain Therapy For Every Practice, Botox and Dermal Fillers Training Course I - Dr. Louis Malcmacher Metro Denver Dental Society Headquarters 3690 S. Yosemite St. Denver, CO 80237 8:30am-5:00pm (303) 488-9700 For more info go to: mddsdentist.com

April 25

Metro Denver Dental Society: New Member Networking Event McLoughlin's 2100 16th Street, Suite 145, Denver, CO 80202 6:00pm-8:00pm (303) 488-9700 For more info go to: mddsdentist.com

MAY 2013 May 2

Metro Denver Dental Society: Avoiding Problems with the Maxillary Sinus in Dentistry: An Anatomic and Case Discussion Review Metro Denver Dental Society Headquarters 3690 S. Yosemite St. Denver, CO 80237 6:30pm-8:30pm (303) 488-9700 For more info go to: mddsdentist.com

Metro Denver Dental Society: CPR & AED Training, a Two Year Certification Metro Denver Dental Society Headquarters 3690 S. Yosemite St. Denver, CO 80237 6:00pm-9:00pm (303) 488-9700 For more info go to: mddsdentist.com

May 16

Metro Denver Dental Society: MDDS 116th Annual Meeting Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum 7711 E Academy Blvd.

Denver, CO 80237 6:00pm-9:00pm (303) 488-9700 For more info go to: mddsdentist.com

Denver, CO 80237 9:00am-4:00pm (303) 488-9700 For more info go to: mddsdentist.com

JUNE 2013 June 13-15

CDA Annual Meeting CDA House of Delegates & Annual Meeting in Steamboat Springs at the Sheraton Resort 2200 Village Inn Court Steamboat Springs, CO 80477 All Day

June 20-23

MDDS CE Weekend Getaway The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch 0130 Daybreak Ridge Avon, Colorado 81620

For more info go to: mddsdentist.com

May 18

Metro Denver Dental Society's Luau Cherry Creek State Park - Dixon Grove Picnic Shelter 4201 S. Parker Road Aurora, CO 80014 11:30am-3:00pm (303) 488-9700 For more info go to: mddsdentist.com

May 24

Metro Denver Dental Society: Hands-on Course: State-of-the-Art Tips, Tricks and Hands-on Techniques in Implant Overdentures for Private Practice-Dr. Robert Vogel Metro Denver Dental Society Headquarters 3690 S. Yosemite St.

JULY 2013 July 18-20

ADA New Dentist Conference Four Seasons Hotel Denver 111 14th St. Denver, CO 80202 All Day

Make Your Move to 1120 W. South Boulder Road, Lafayette, Colorado 80026  Great Location Captures Northern Denver / Boulder Market  Easy Access from Highway 287  Monument Signage on South Boulder Road  Dental Finishes in Place — up to 3,200 RSF  Outstanding demographics (5 mile radius)

Population: > 107,000 Average Household Income: > $102,000 Traffic count: > 20,000 cars per day

www.healthconnectproperties.com 303-830-1444

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mddsdentist.com

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Spring 2013

Colorado Dental Association

Annual Session

Steamboat Springs, CO June 13-15, 2013

Featuring CE speakers Dr. Michael Wiley, Dr. Jeanne Salcetti, and Dr. Gary Radz

House of Delegates Meeting, CE Courses, Networking, and Family Fun! Golf, Zumba, ProRodeo, Cocktail Mixology, Hot Springs, Horseback Riding, Tubing and so much more!

www.cdaonline.org/AnnualSession

Everybody on your dental team works hard to make patients smile. And, a smile always moves upward…so should your bottom line. With MDE as your partner, you get to experience both. Your patients already have cient revenue cycle will have you beaming, too.

Send revenue in the right direction: up.

To learn more, please visit www.whymde.com

WWW.WHYMDE.COM

FINANCIAL MATTERS

Estate Planning Documents Everyone Needs

By Edward Leone, Jr., DMD MBA RFC

P

eople engage in a variety of planning strategies throughout life. Financial planning is instrumental in enabling people to satisfy their needs and wants. Education planning deals with the education of individuals and their children. Retirement planning is designed to help provide financial comfort and security to maintain a desired lifestyle after the working years are over. Lastly, estate planning serves to help families deal with a member’s end of life transitions involving transfers of assets, responsibilities and liabilities in an efficient manner.

Estate planning involves a focus on both personal and financial issues. Personal issues may involve the transfer of responsibility for healthcare, incapacity, management of personal property and personal care or maintenance. Financial issues include the eventual transfer of financial assets to the appropriate recipients along with the satisfaction of pending liabilities. The efficiencies come in the form of ease of administration along with consideration for minimal tax impact.

The document which gives authority to another to act on his or her behalf should the individual become disabled or incompetent is a durable power of attorney. This document allows continuation of the management of personal affairs and property. A durable power of attorney for healthcare allows an individual to assign authority for medical decisions in the event that the individual is not able to make a decision. A living will is necessary in addition to the durable power of attorney for healthcare since this document will be used to express the individual’s desires regarding the use of life-sustaining measures in the event of a terminal situation. When an individual does not have these documents, the judicial system makes decisions on the individual’s behalf and not necessarily in conjunction with his or her desires.

Most of us have heard the term “Will,” but many Americans don’t have one. A will is a document which provides instructions on how to distribute personal assets to loved ones, other heirs and charities. It can also be used to designate a guardian for dependent children. Everyone needs a will! There are several forms of wills. A simple will provides for the distribution of assets in an uncomplicated or small estate.

A statutory will is a fill in the blank type form, but is not recognized by every state jurisdiction. A holographic will is hand written by the decedent. It does not require witnessing, but again is not recognized by very many state jurisdictions. An oral will or nuncupative will is not written and not readily recognized in most state jurisdictions. A self-proving will certifies that the witnesses and the testator (creator of the will) properly signed the will and is notarized. This is the safest way to go in order to avoid invalidity or contestation of the document.

Pour-over wills and revocable living trusts are methods also used to transfer assets in certain situations along with testamentary trust wills.

Many times assets can be transferred by contract such as is the case with beneficiary assignments in life insurance contracts and IRAs. An individual who dies without a will dies intestate. When this happens, the state in which the individual lived and died steps in through the probate process to distribute assets under conditions dictated by state law. This process is known as an intestate succession. It is very possible

mddsdentist.com

in such a circumstance that assets will not be distributed in the way the decedents would have desired.

Each of the documents discussed here can be involved and quite complicated depending on the desires of the individual creating the documents, the degree of authority granted in the documents, the amount of the assets involved and also family relationships. It is most prudent to consult an appropriately trained attorney when drafting these documents to be sure that they can be applied without difficulty when they are needed. It is also necessary to review these documents for appropriateness and compliance from time to time.

Sources: “Estate Planning and Taxation” by John C. Bost Dr. Leone is a past President of the Metropolitan Denver Dental Society and a past President of the Colorado Dental Association, as well as previous Treasurer of the American Dental Association. Dr. Leone is an Associate with GHP Investment Advisors, Inc. in Denver, Colorado. www.GHPIA.com If you would like more information about estate planning or financial planning in general, contact Ed at (303) 831-5027 or ELeone@ghpia.com.

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Spring 2013

27

You’d never give your customers the same solution. Neither would we.

Our Practice Finance Specialists will prescribe solutions that fit your practice, helping you with acquisition financing or practice debt refinancing. In addition, we can help with buyins or buyouts, expansions, relocations or new practice start-ups.

Call Kerrie Bunce at 303-713-6411 Lucas Harmon at 303-707-4297

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a law office for dental and medical business needs .

Office Leases Practice Transitions Formation of Practice Entities Property Purchases Estate Planning General Business Needs

Emphasis is placed on understanding client needs and using technology, resources, and relationships with your brokers, consultants, bankers and CPAs to meet those needs in an efficient, effective and professional manner.

Law Office of Kimberley G. Taylor, LLC | www.lawofficekgt.com | 303-526-8456 or 970-926-6389 | kim@lawofficekgt.com

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TAX TIME TIPS 2013 Offers Doctors Equipment and Technology Tax Savings Opportunity By: Brian Berry, CEO of Med-Tech Construction $250,000 as it is a part of the $500,000. The property must be used in the taxpayer’s trade or business and cannot be used for lodging nor air conditioning or heating units.

A Bonus Deduction!

If you’ve been thinking about updating or expanding your office equipment and technology, 2013 is the year to take action.

Why? You can use Section 179 of the IRS Tax Code to acquire and possibly deduct up to $500,000 in capital equipment this year. Section 179 was scheduled to be reduced from the $139,000 limit in 2012, to $25,000 in 2013. But part of the Fiscal Cliff Bill passed January 1 includes a temporary increase to $500,000. The depreciation will be reduced to $25,000 in 2014 unless extended.

If you’re not familiar with Section 179, this is the part of the IRS Tax Code that encourages small-business owners to invest in equipment or technology by allowing deductions for capital equipment expenditures.

What Can You Deduct?

New machinery, furniture, fixtures and off-the-shelf software have been standard Section 179 deductions. However, the definition of property qualifying for Sect 179 was also temporarily expanded to include certain real property, specifically “qualified leasehold improvement property” [LHI]. This amount for LHI property is capped at

Purchases over $500,000 qualify for 50 percent bonus depreciation. Standard firstyear MACRS (Modified Accelerated Cost Recovery System) deduction applies to the remaining amount up to $2,000,000.

As always, Section 179 expense cannot create or increase a loss in the year it relates to, but it can be carried over.

Disclaimer: You will want to consult with your own tax advisor based on your own individual circumstances. This information is offered to provide general guidance in applying tax credits and tax deductions that may beneficial to your growth plans, and should not be construed as providing financial advice, tax advice and/or rendering advice on tax return preparation.

Brian Berry is President/ CEO of Med-Tech Construction. Specializing in healthcare construction, the national firm has been named one of the Top 100 Aggie owned companies in the world by the Mays Business School at Texas A&M University. MedTech also received the Dallas Top 100 Award as one of the fastest growing Dallas-based companies from the SMU Cox School of Business two consecutive years. Learn more at medtechconstruction.com.

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CLASSIFIEDS Job Board DOCTORS PER DIEM INC - Professional Placement: Professional practice coverage by a Colorado colleague during personal, maternity or disability leave. Full production schedule or baby sitting. Fee is standard production %. Inquiries treated with confidentiality. DOCTORS PER DIEM INC. Join us!

Register: http://www.doctorsperdiem.com/register. Email: docs@doctorsperdiem.com. 1.800.600.0963.

GENERAL DENTAL PRACTICE ASSOCIATE TRANSITION South of Denver, Colorado: Associate opportunity to ownership.

This is not a job, but an opportunity for ownership. Applicant must have at least 2-3 years experience, qualified in all aspects of general dentistry! Implants and OS a plus! Susan 303-973-2147 or susan@sastransitions.com SAS Dental Practice Brokers www.sastransitions.com Office Coordinator: We deliver basic to complex care with the latest technology to serve our clients. Experience is necessary along with the energy to help take our practice to the next level.

Come and enjoy every outdoor activity the rockies has to offer in stunning southwest Colorado. Your new career awaits. Email your resume to pagosad@pagosa.net Pediatric Dentist: My Kid’s Dentist has current openings for pediatric dentists throughout Colorado. We offer excellent income including a daily guarantee (for a set period) and some regions offer a sign-on bonus. My Kid’s Dentist has ownership opportunities and a great quality of life, all in an environment in which you dictate the treatment plans.

Real Estate DENTAL OFFICE SPACE: Arvada/Westminster, 1 story professional building complex. 1,100 sq. ft. professional office.

Fronted by busy Old Chicago restaurant and adjacent professional massage therapy practice. Modern, well-designed and attractive unit with 4 Tx rooms dental equipment installation-ready with cabinetry, gas lines, plumbing, electrical in place. Plenty of storage & Dr. private office with private entrance. Great drive-by & walkby exposure with ample dedicated parking. New carpet tenant finish allowance. Contact: Jim True at 303-425-9200 Dental Office Space Arvada: Spacious 1850 sq. ft existing dental space in owner occupied professional building in the area of 80th Ave and Wadsworth blvd. Office has 4 dental ops, large business

office, staff lounge, private bath, lab area and private office. The space will be available late spring or early summer 2013. Contact Dr. James Gallagher D.D.S. at 303-424-4048 GENERAL DENTAL PRACTICE - Coming 2013! GP: Northern Colorado, Metro-Denver, New Specialty practices and more! Go to www.sastransitions.com for new listings as they come forward!

Susan 303-973-2147 or SAS Dental Practice Brokers susan@sastransitions.com

PERIODONTAL SPECIALTY PRACTICE - Northern Colorado: Excellent opportunity to own a well established periodontal specialty practice. Owner dentist has the market share of referrals, has a great staff and room for growth. Nice spacious facility. Digital with management software. Perfect turn-key opportunity! Susan 303-973-2147 or susan@sastransitions.com SAS Dental Practice Brokers www.sastransitions.com

GENERAL DENTAL PRACTICE - Denver, Colorado: Established 764 active patient base, long time hygienist and front office manager to stay with practice. Great Acquisition or Satellite Practice Downtown Denver! Motivated Seller! Susan 303-9732147, susan@sastransitions.com SAS Dental Practice Brokers! www.sastransitions.com

Practices for Sale: Listings in Colorado: Denver, Centennial, Boulder, Arvada, Parker, Colorado Springs, South I-25 corridor, Central & Western Colorado, Grand Junction and WY & KS. For more information and listing description(s), please visit our website: www.adsprecise.com; new listings added frequently; Peter Mirabito, D.D.S., Jed Esposito, M.B.A., ADS Precise Consultants 855-461-0101. Practice Sales, Practice Appraisals, Partnerships & Buy-In’s.

GENERAL DENTAL PRACTICE - Mountain Town, Colorado: Mountain practice in one of most attractive areas in Colorado! Ski, Golf, Hike, Bike, and more! Easy access to Denver! Established state of the art practice. Great potential for growth. Own the condo too! Susan 303-973-2147 or susan@ sastransitions.com SAS Dental Practice Brokers www.sastransitions.com

Announcements & Services Aurora Oral Imaging, LLC: We pride ourselves in customized service for doctors and patients alike. We are conveniently located off I-225 & Parker Road in the Ponderosa Professional Plaza, 14991 E Hampden Ave Ste 340, Aurora, CO 80014. Visit our website at www.auroraoralimaging.com for expedient scheduling or call 303-690-5100 for appointment times not offered online.

GENERAL DENTAL PRACTICE - Rural, Colorado: Perfect for New Grads/GPR and Returning Military dentists! Excellent Satellite Practice! Why pay big city taxes when you can own for less! Owner is Retiring but will support a smooth transition!

Susan 303-973-2147, susan@sastransitions.com SAS Dental Practice Brokers! www.sastransitions.com

HIRE A BROKER YOU CAN TRUST! Now is the time to Sell, Buy or Transition Your Practice! Less Cost to Sell! Great Motivated Buyers! Excellent Interest Rates! Pick from the Best Pool of Applicants! www.sastransitions.com Susan Spear, Practice Transition Specialist / Licensed Broker SAS Transitions, Inc. SAS Dental Practice Brokers 303.973.2147 susan@sastransitions.com

General Practices for Sale: Practice listings along the Front Range in Denver, Boulder, Loveland, Fort Collins, Centennial, Aurora, Lakewood, Colorado Springs, Lamar and other areas around the state. For more information on current practice opportunities, including an overview of each practice, please visit our website www.ctc-associates.com or call Larry Chatterley and Susannah Hazelrigg with CTC Associates at (303)795-8800.

Orthodontic Practice: SW Littleton Fully Equipped one day per week satellite practice. can be expanded with strong local commitment. 1800 sq ft 6 chair attractive facilitygreat layout. Would be suitable for energetic graduate or experienced practitioner who is looking to expand. e-mail to websmiles@aol.com

Transition Services: For more information on how to sell your practice or bring in an associate, or for information on buying a practice or associating before a buy-in or buy-out please contact Larry Chatterley and Susannah Hazelrigg with CTC Associates at (303)795-8800 or visit our website for practice transition information and current practice opportunities www.ctc-associates.com.

Visit mddsdentist.com/classifieds to place an ad.

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“I

n my opinion, Carr Healthcare Realty is the best in the business. They helped me negotiate the best possible lease and tenant finish allowance, and helped me locate the best location demographically. Thanks to their knowledge and experience, they managed to save me over $220,000. I highly recommend them in any lease or purchase negotiations for you and your practice.”

Greg Solich, DDS

Colin Carr President

303.817.6654 colin@carrhr.com

Christian Gile Principal Denver Metro

303.960.4072 christian@carrhr.com

At Carr Healthcare Realty…

We provide experienced representation and skilled negotiating for dentists’ office space needs.

Roger Hernandez Colorado Springs Southern Colorado

Whether you are purchasing, relocating, opening a new office, or renewing your existing lease, we can help you receive some of the most favorable terms and concessions available.

719.339.9007 roger@carrhr.com

Every lease or purchase is unique and provides substantial opportunities on which to capitalize. The slightest difference in the terms negotiated can impact your practice by hundreds of thousands of dollars. With this much at stake, expert representation and skilled negotiating are essential to level the playing field and help you receive the most favorable terms.

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Kevin Schutz

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If your lease is expiring in the next 12 – 18 months, allow us to show you how we can help you capitalize on your next lease or purchase.

Lease Negotiations • Office Relocations • Lease Renewals • Purchases