Articulator Volume 22, Issue 3

ARTICULATOR MDDS Connections for Metro Denver’s Dental Profession

110th

RMDC 2018 Volume 22, Issue 3

EDITION

1973 RMDC EXPO HALL

B

Healthy patients and a healthy business.

At Commerce Bank, we have the experience to manage the unique financial challenges of the healthcare industry. From simple loan plans that help patients to optimizing your most complex payment processes, we have options that allow you to focus on providing a higher level of dental care.

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BOOTH #719

RMDC 2018

what's inside?

14

p. features

TO SEE YOUR BIGGEST COMPETITOR, LOOK IN THE MIRROR pg.12

11 Build Your Ideal Practice and Dream Team

12 To See Your Biggest Competitor, ...

Look in the Mirror

14 Chaos to Productivity Advertisers Directory

18 Tray Tooth Bleaching the Right ....

Thing at the Right Time

20 The First Five Years

After Dental School

departments 4 RMDC Chairman's Letter 6-7 Member Matters 8 Reflections 10 Member Spotlight 26 Tripartite News

ADS Precise Consultants adsprecise.com................................. 31

Dential Lifeline Network WillYouSeeOne.org........................... 27

Berkley Risk Services of Colorado berkleyrisk.com................................... 5

Dentists Professional Liability Trust of Colorado tdplt.com............................................ 9

Best Card bestcardteam.com............................. 15 Carr Healthcare Realty carrhr.com........................... Back Cover Catalyst Retirement Advisors, LLC catalystretirement.com....................... 27

Denver Implant Study Club https://disc.events/............................ 29 Healthcare Medical Waste Services, LLC hcmws.com....................................... 21

Colorado Dental Association cdaonline.org.................................... 22

Northwest Mutual shawncopeland.nm.com.................... 21

Commerce Bank commercebank.com/dentistry....Inside Front Cover

SAS Transitions sastransitions.com............................... 5

Copic Financial Services Group

Vitality Laboratories viatalitydentalarts.com.................. 16-17

copicfsg.com..................................... 13 CTC Associates ctc-associates.com/............................ 29 Co Editors Allen Vean, DMD; Amisha Singh, DDS Creative Manager & Managing Editor CT Nelson Director of Marketing & Communications Cara Stan MDDS Executive Committee President Nicholas Chiovitti, DDS

28 OSHA

President-Elect Brian Gurinsky, DDS, MS

30 Event Calendar

Secretary Kevin Patterson, DDS, MD

Treasurer Nelle Barr, DMD

WSI Healthcare Personnel wsijobs.com...................................... 27

Editorial Policy All statements of opinion and of supposed factare 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 925 Lincoln Street, Unit B The Articulator is published bi-monthly by the Metropolitan Denver Dental Denver, CO 80203 Society and distributed to MDDS members as a direct benefit of membership. Phone: (303) 488-9700 Fax: (303) 488-0177 mddsdentist.com Š2017 Metropolitan Denver Dental Society Printing Dilley Printing

31 Classifieds

3

RMDC 2018

RMDC Chairman's Message

By Jeffery Young, DDS

W

e’re Back! After the Rocky Mountain

design is highlighted in the center by The Summit: CE & Demo Stage. A

Dental Convention (RMDC) took a

ceiling banner and two large screens will make The Summit easy to locate.

sabbatical in 2017 to encourage attendance

This exciting new addition will have a stage for CE presentations and a

at the American Dental Association

product display area. There will be four 1-hour CE and demo sessions on

(ADA) Annual Meeting in Denver, the RMDC returns

both Thursday and Friday, with one additional session on Saturday. These are

this January. We are back, revamped and better than ever!

ticketed courses that can accommodate 50 – 60 attendees per session.

The 2018 RMDC will take place January 18 – 20. Registration is open and

The “spokes” of the Expo Hall floorplan will lead you to some great

easily accessible at rmdconline.com.

themed specialty food and beverage areas including the new Tropicana and Saloon bars. The Expo Hall Receptions and Snack Time will be

Now entering its 110th anniversary, the Rocky Mountain Dental Convention

returning on Thursday and Friday. Plan enough time in your schedules

is the largest continuing education event for dental professionals in the

to enjoy this fun part of the RMDC and support our generous vendors.

region. Held in beautiful downtown Denver, the RMDC always boasts a

Attendees who make purchases will be entered to win great prizes such as

spectacular educational lineup. Some of our nationally renowned speakers include:

• Dr. Stanley Malamed

• Dr. Pascal Magne

• Dr. Maryanne Butler

• Dr. Paul Feuerstein

• Dr. Howard Glazer

• Dr. Roger Levin

• Dr. Greg Psaltis

• Ms. Anne Guignon

a TV, drone and more.

"Now entering its 110th anniversary, the Rocky Mountain Dental Convention is the largest continuing education event for dental professionals in the region."

Be sure to sign up for the Opening Session featuring Ms. Laurie Guest, owner of Guest Enterprises, a speaking, training and education firm she founded over 20 years ago. Her session, “Life in the Espresso Lane: How to be smooth, bold and balanced in a fast-pace world,” provides clear action steps and tangible tools people can use immediately. Don’t miss this humorous, interactive and entertaining presentation on Thursday morning from

MDDS President Dr. Nicholas Chiovitti, will take place on Thursday evening. It will be held at The Pinnacle Club at Grand Hyatt Denver. Entertainment will be provided by the Amelie Quartet. Our yearly Society awards will also be presented at the event. Attend this gala to network directly with your MDDS leadership, staff and colleagues.

The RMDC Friday Night Party is returning from 6:00pm – 8:30pm at the Capitol Ballroom in the Hyatt Regency. This is a fantastic and fun opportunity for dentists, spouses and staff to unwind and enjoy snacks, music and dancing. The Friday Night After Party follows (downtown location TBD) from 9:00pm – 2:00am for those who like to keep the party going!

8:00am – 9:00am.

Other social events include affiliated group functions throughout the

The RMDC offers a unique opportunity to obtain a wide variety of CE in one

dates and locations. This is a great way to reconnect with your dental school

location. As in past years, hands-on courses will also be offered at Colorado Convention Center, as well as at the Mountain West Dental Institute (MWDI). These popular courses are filling up quickly, so if you haven’t

4

The MDDS Awards Gala & President’s Dinner, honoring

meeting. Check the RMDC website or the mobile app for a complete list with alumni.

I would like to thank the MDDS staff, Board of Directors, committee

already, register now!

members and the multitude of volunteers who work tirelessly to make this

This year we will debut our new Expo Hall floorplan. This spoke-and-wheel

friends and enjoy the new features we’ve implemented!

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RMDC 2018 mddsdentist.com

meeting successful. I hope you attend, network with your colleagues and

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RMDC 2018 mddsdentist.com

5

MEMBER MATTERS

MDDS Members Get Crafty at the Annual Women Dentist Event

Drs. Pandes and Farrkh show their love for Colorado at the Women Dentist Event.

Member were able to network while creating unique DIY projects.

Drs. Khalsa, Thompson, Foster and Michael mingle at Upstairs Circus – DTC.

Broncos Nation! Drs. Miyamoto and Bagherdaei show their Broncos prided with this spirited project.

New Members Gather at a New Spot in the Highlands

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spring 2016 mddsdentist.com

Drs. Williams, Harkins and Cook enjoy craft cocktails and each other’s company at the October New Member Welcome Event.

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RMDC 2018 mddsdentist.com

MDDS members connect with CU students to give post grad advice at Bremen’s Wine & Tap.

Members Help the Public on Dental Line 9

New Members, Welcome!

Dr. Nathan Becker Dr. Brett Bergseid Dr. Dylan Bordonaro Dr. John P Bowman Dr. Katherine Chin Dr. Trevor Coeling Dr. Taylor Cook Dr. George Corson Dr. Lorin Creer Dr. Camillo DiLizia Dr. Sabrina Dragan Dr. Carole Emanuel Dr. Jean Felton Dr. Christopher Gordon Dr. Nathan Gunning Dr. Denise Heyman-Hales Dr. Ann Hoang Dr. Brandon Holyoak Dr. Christine Issac Dr. Bridger Jensen Dr. Ardavan Karami Dr. Neda Karamai Dr. Peter Kim Dr. Matthew Kovach Dr. Cary LaCouture Dr. Ihsan Larsen Dr. Brett Lopez Dr. John McShane Dr. Clarisa Molina Dr. Scot Novak Dr. Scott Ohmart Dr. Joel Ortlip Dr. Stephen Perry Dr. Kyle Reynolds Dr. Frank Seaman Dr. Garry Van Genderen Dr. Erin Van Gundy Dr. Lindsey Yates

Drs. Riffel, Hurst, Wehking and Vean were paid a special visit by a Troll, Channel 9 News', Becky Ditchfield, during a special Halloween edition of Dental Line 9.

A New Smile for Our Military

Freedom Day State Coordinator, Dr. David Collins, provides free dental care for our nation’s military.

Dr. Kylie Brightside says thank you to active military, veterans and their families by participating in Freedom Day USA.

Dentists Head to Pueblo for the 2018 Colorado Mission of Mercy

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spring 2016 mddsdentist.com 1,100 patients were served and over $1,000,000 of dental care was donated during the 2018 COMOM.

Dr. Jeff Hurst, MDDS Past President, was interviewed by local media during COMOM.

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7

REFLECTIONS

Game Changers

By Allen Vean, DMD

I

n the world of sports, professional, amateur or recreational, there

The rapid advancement of computer technology and dental imaging using digital sensors

are events and people that can change the course or outcome of the

made its debut in the 1980s, bringing clinical diagnosis to new levels of excellence. The

game. For example, in the 1960s, Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus

decrease of radiation exposure from this technology was welcomed by practitioners

brought professional golf to a new level of popularity and inspired

and patients alike. Additionally, the environment appreciated the removal of hazardous

many to begin playing. Fast forward to the 1980s and 90s, a young Tiger

chemicals.

Woods dominated the game. Today, there are

many incredibly talented young players such as Jordan Speith, Justin

"Technology, and its constant advancements, has become a gamechanger and will continue to be one of the major components of patient care."

Thomas and Dustin Johnson who will change the game and bring it to even higher levels.

As we celebrate 110 years of the Rocky Mountain Dental Convention (RMDC), let’s look back at the “game changers” in dentistry that brought our profession to a new level. Many of us take local anesthesia for granted; Lidocaine was introduced in 1943 and marketed in 1947.

Think about treating your patients without anesthesia. We all know

Although lasers have been used in the medical field since the mid-1960s, the introduction of laser therapy in dentistry didn’t happen until the mid-1990s. Lasers have given our profession another piece of equipment sure to add to patient care, and their continuing advancement is remarkable.

Perhaps the most impressive game-changer in dentistry is the exponential growth of technology, which I have mentioned in a previous Reflections. Gone are the days of the double-barrel slide

there are many individuals that do not seek dental care for a variety

projector presentations at RMDC. Remember the Kodak Carousel

of reasons, one being that they fear pain.

- the overhead projector that sometimes blew a bulb or fuse right in the middle of the presentation? Instead, these relics have been replaced with beautiful

In the 1960s, the introduction of air-water coolant spray in a high-speed turbine handpiece

Power Point presentations and digital images in an advanced learning environment. The

certainly changed the game for tooth preparation. Teeth could now be prepared in a safer

Expo Hall is now a showcase for dental technology and a platform for how advanced digital

environment for protecting the pulp. One of my colleagues reminded me of his experience

software can not only improve treatment outcomes, but also a practice’s bottom line.

taking the Central Regional Boards in the basement of Denver General Hospital (now Denver Health) with just the use of a belt-driven handpiece – incredible!

Professional athletes use technology to maximize their performance. Their equipment, including shoes, uniform fabric and even their bodies, are finely tuned by computer

Perhaps one of the most important advancements in our profession came in the mid-to-late

analysis to perform to the best of their ability. Technology, and its constant advancements,

1970s with the development of the ultraviolet light and subsequent acid etch technique.

has become a game-changer and will continue to be one of the major components of patient

Dr. Michael Buonocore discussed the use of adhesive dentistry and acid etch as far back as

care.

1955. This is now standard in our profession. Advancements in technology have improved its performance and ease of use. The improvements in tooth-colored restorations and

Wishing everyone a most healthy, happy and prosperous New Year.

techniques using these materials have moved dentistry in a new direction.

THANK YOU TO THE DENTAL OFFICES IN THE METRO AREA THAT PARTICIPATED IN FREEDOM DAY USA! -

Affordable Dentures Northglenn All About Braces Appletree Dental Applewood Dental Belmar Park Dental Care Brightside Dentistry Copeland Family Dental Dentistry for Children Denver Restorative Dentistry Eric W. Van Zytveld, DDS

-

Halsa Dental Hill View Dental Johnson Dental Northstar Dental Co. Peak OMS & Implant Center Shine Dental Arts, LLC Smile Aurora Dental Stonegate Dental Care West Ranch Dental Center Wynkoop Dental

If you are interested in participating in the nation’s largest military thank you event, visit freedomdayusa.org.

8

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RMDC 2018 mddsdentist.com

Take a Closer Look

0

$

.00

New Graduate 1st Year Rate

All malpractice policies are not created the same

There are a lot of differences between being a Member of the Trust and just another policy number at a large, commercial carrier. Both give you a policy the Practice Law requires, but that’s where the similarity ends. Consider…

Who do I talk to when I have a patient event, claim or question?

The Trust: Local dentists who understand your practice, your business and your needs.

Them: Claims call center (likely in another state).

Do I have personal input and access to the company?

The Trust: Yes. You are represented by dentists from your CDA Component Society giving you direct, personal access to the Trust.

Them: Yes, via their national board.

How much surplus has been returned to dentists in Colorado?

The Trust: Over $1.8M has been distributed back to Colorado dentists as a “return of surplus” (after all, it’s your Trust, your money).

Them: $0

Besides a policy, what do I get when I buy coverage?

The Trust: Personal risk mitigation training, educational programs and an on-call team that “speak dentist.”

Them: Online support.

Do I have to give my “Consent to Settle” a case?

The Trust: All settlements are based on the best interests of the dentist, patient and Trust Members.

Them: Read the fine print; ask about their “Hammer Clause.”

How many years has the company been serving Colorado dentists?

The Trust: 29 years. Established by dentists in 1987.

Them: It’s hard to say... they tend to come and go.

Protect your practice.

Call the Trust today.

Dr. Randy Kluender · 303-357-2602 Dr. H. Candace DeLapp · 303-257-2604 www.tdplt.com

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Jeffery Young, DDS RMDC Chairman

You have dedicated a significant amount of time to organized dentistry. What influenced you to do this?

"I come from a family of dentists. I initially practiced general dentistry in Iowa with my father and brother.

My father was involved in organized dentistry and encouraged me to do the same. It has been a rewarding experience to be involved in organized dentistry as a general dentist in Iowa, and then as a pediatric dentist in Colorado."

What is your favorite aspect about practicing dentistry?

"I have spent the past six years teaching the pediatric dental residents at Children’s Hospital Colorado. This has been one of the favorite aspects of my dental career. I am also a partner in a pediatric dental practice in Brush, CO. We are providing dental care to underserved children in that area.

Preventing childhood caries by seeing patients prior to one year of age and counseling parents is also important to me. The ability to provide care to fearful children using various management techniques and enabling them to gain self-confidence for future dental care is extremely gratifying."

As Chair of the 2018 Rocky Mountain Dental Convention (RMDC), what is the top thing you hope attendees get out of the event?

"A fun, exciting and unique experience that includes quality education, extensive product display and a multitude of social events that allow them to network with colleagues and friends."

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10 RMDC 2018 mddsdentist.com

What speaker are you most excited to see speak at the 2018 RMDC?

"I have always enjoyed listening to Dr. Stanley Malamed. He provides excellent information that is clinically relevant."

What is the #1 issue you see dentistry facing in the next 5 years?

Can you tell us about one piece of technology you are excited to learn about at The Summit: CE & Demo Stage?

"The Summit is my personal favorite and a new addition to the RMDC. I am excited to learn more about dental lasers and their growing applications to practicing dentistry. "

"Navigating through the continual changes of universal health care and third-party reimbursement system."

If you weren’t a dentist what would you do?

"Dentistry has been a rewarding career, but I have always had an interest in sedation and general anesthesia. So, it would have been anesthesia."

RMDC SPEAKER

BUILD YOUR IDEAL PRACTICE AND DREAM

By Roger Levin, DDS

H

ow many NFL teams have a head coach who is also the

case. I’ve seen time and time again how an improved scheduling system enables the doctor

starting quarterback? Or a linebacker or an offensive

to work at a measured pace with much higher production, while the team is functioning at

lineman? The answer is none.

optimal levels. In my experience, it is possible to increase scheduling capacity by 20 percent or more using mathematical formulas, resulting in high-production, low-stress practices.

Why? Because nobody can do both jobs at the same time.

Hygiene. This is the second largest revenue area, yet it tends to operate on auto-pilot. Most

Yet, that’s basically what you're doing as the owner and main producer for your practice.

dentists have a strong desire for hygienists to see eight patients a day. If all eight patients

You’re performing double duty, but only went to school for one of these positions. Dental

show up, it’s considered a great day. But in reality, it’s a missed opportunity. With proper

school trained you how to be an excellent clinician; there wasn’t much of a focus on practice

training, hygienists can become skilled influencers in their everyday interactions with

management. And rightly so, you had too much clinical material to cover.

patients, often increasing production by 10 percent or more. How? What if hygienists presented treatment —possibly even closed cases— all before you even walked into

But, after all is said and done, you’re a doing pretty good job balancing both jobs. Yet,

the room. Of course, you will always be the final authority when it comes to treatment

when you take a step back and look at your practice objectively, you know that it has some

recommendations. However, a hygienist can be trained to motivate patients on a variety of

potential sitting there just waiting to be released. That’s where systems come in…

restorative and elective treatment (in accordance with state regulations), saving enormous time and increasing production significantly with no addition to practice overhead.

Understanding Systems Think of systems like this: they are to a practice what vital organs are to a human being.

The New Patient Experience. This system makes up 40 percent of the doctor’s annual

Every human body needs a heart to pump blood, lungs to diffuse oxygen and so on. In the

production. When a typical practice is analyzed, average production per new patient is a

same manner, every practice needs a scheduling system to maximize efficiency, a hygiene

strong indicator of a successful practice. In most offices, this runs approximately 50% below

department to build patient loyalty, marketing and customer service to maximize new

where it could be. Practices need to take more influential steps right from the moment a

patient growth, etc. No one can function well without a healthy heart or lungs, and the

patient contacts the office to create an image of value and quality. Your team should be well-

same goes for dental practices. Without effective, updated systems, dental offices perform

versed in building a strong relationship from the onset, encouraging patients to make and

far below their potential.

keep appointments and creating a first-class patient experience during every visit.

In addition to improving practice performance, high-performance systems also reduce

Systems are the lifeblood of your practice. Keeping them healthy and running well propel

stress. While we may think that the majority of stress comes from patients or team

your practice toward greater growth and success!

members, it really originates from inefficient systems. Once well-designed systems are put in place, stress is dramatically reduced.

About the Author Let’s look at three systems that are critical to running a successful practice:

Dr. Roger Levin is considered the foremost authority on dental practice success.

He has dedicated his career to improving the lives of dentists. Dr. Levin is a third-

Scheduling. It is the heart of your practice. All other systems depend on scheduling because

generation general dentist and the Chairman and CEO of Levin Group, Inc., a

it determines how every hour of your day is run. Unfortunately, few practices have efficient

leading dental management consulting firm that has worked with over 26,000

schedules. In fact, most practices have older schedules that restrict growth, causing the

dentists and specialists.

office to perform far below its production potential. Some dentists are afraid of improving them because they mistakenly believe they’ll have to work harder or faster. That’s not the

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RMDC SPEAKER

TO SEE YOUR BIGGEST COMPETITOR, LOOK IN THE MIRROR

By Laura Hatch

W

hen I travel around the country speaking with dental professionals, the most frequent complaint I hear is having trouble growing offices or not hitting goals. “Too much competition.” “Corporate dentistry is moving in across the street.” “People in our area don’t have money.” “Patients don’t understand dentistry.” And, the list goes on. I am not saying that these statements are never true—in some cases, they might be. But I always challenge statements like these with two questions: 1) Is this true or is this just something that you have gone into agreement with?

2) If it is true, is there anything you can do about it?

Why do I raise these questions? I think many people have gone into agreement with things they believe, even if they are not necessarily true, because it is easier to deal with than the truth. I think people take on these beliefs because they are more willing to accept the idea of being blocked by an outside factor, rather than taking responsibility for something that can be done to change it. Place the blame rather than put a plan in place.

Recently I saw the quote, “Look in the mirror: that is your biggest competition.” It really spoke to me about what we deal with in the dental industry daily. Although this quote stems from sports, I think it should be something we remind ourselves and our teams in the dental office. Many times, even though there are outside factors and challenges that we must overcome, the most important element to meeting our goals is our ability to “look in the mirror” and see our own personal beliefs about a situation.

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When you and your team take the time to discuss what you can change from inside, rather than simply blaming outside factors or believing in reasons you cannot change, you can make a real impact on two things you do have control over: your thoughts and your actions.

First, let’s look at what it means to change your thoughts.

Do any of these statements sound familiar to you?

• “Our patients don’t have money.”

• “All new patients calling in are just shoppers.”

• “Patients won’t do anything that isn’t covered by insurance.”

• “If we push the patient too much about a treatment plan, we will seem desperate for their business.”

I would be willing to bet that statements like these show up in your thoughts each day as you go about the everyday work of your office. Thoughts like these are just thoughts, but they are having a real-life impact on your practice and hinder your ability to meet your goals.

These thoughts are limiting your beliefs and taking on a power of their own. When you and your team begin to think this way, the result is you don’t get a lot of new patients scheduled or you don’t close a lot of treatments because it has already been decided that these thoughts are true. By believing, you are limiting thoughts about what patients will or won’t do and you are holding yourself back from helping patients get the dentistry they need.

The first step is to change the thinking of both yourself and your team. Each patient is different, and each case presentation is different. Every patient should be given the opportunity to be presented the best possible treatment plan to help them get and stay healthy. When you speak to a patient, it is important to keep an open mind and actively listen to what they say and ask.

Don’t decide their fate for them by projecting your limiting beliefs. Yes, some patients are insurance-driven or don’t have money for the treatment you are recommending, but that is not true for all patients. The collective efforts should be to let the decision rest with the patient and to strive to help them get the treatment that is best for them and their dental health.

You’ve changed your attitude. Now, let’s talk about changing your action.

When your thoughts stop holding you back, you can begin to see everything you do helps you build the best possible version of your practice. By accepting that you and your team are the reason your patients are not scheduling appointments or proceeding with the recommended treatment, the next step is to identify what action you can take to improve the situation.

Training and communication are a huge part of adjusting how your office works with patients to ensure a better outcome. It is vital to implement systems that help you achieve the highest success rate. You need to work with your team so each staff member understands that your competition is not the dentist across the street—it is in yourselves and your own mindset. The more

your team can focus on collaborating to work toward the same goal, the more success you will enjoy.

This shift does not have to take months or years to happen. It can happen as quickly as a day or a week, because the first step has an immediate impact.

Once you look in the mirror and realize that you and your team need to make an internal change – that change begins to take place. As soon as you recognize the power your interactions with each other and your patients have, things start to improve. You can easily keep that motivation and training moving in a positive direction when you see that it was not the outside factors that kept you down; it was always within your four walls. Here is the best news yet - now that you know you have control over what happens in your office and the future of your practice, you will be motivated to reach your highest potential and each one of your goals. Let the games begin!

About the Author Laura Hatch has a Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources and a Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership. She partnered with her husband to build and manage two fee-for-service dental practices. Twelve years later, she founded Front Office Rocks, which offers front office training for dental practices. Ms. Hatch has been published in Dental Assisting Digest, Dentaltown and Dentistry IQ. She was recognized as one of DPR’s Top 25 Women in Dentistry in 2016.

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CHAOS TO PRODUCTIVITY

By Scott Frederick, DDS

F

or years I was stuck having the same repetitive day: seeing

in what you are doing. A why is not “to make a profit.” That is a result. People that

patients, stressing out trying to get the hygiene checks

believe in your brand and your product will work harder and continue to help make

completed on time and being stuck at average production.

things more successful. One way to begin is to set goals. Psychologists have found that

I knew I needed to change something. I embarked on a

goal setting can be extremely powerful. Set specific goals, make them measurable,

year long journey with a lot of help from different experts.

attainable, relevant and time-based. Write these goals down and display them where

I looked at change from all aspects of the office and in each role. I

you can see them on a regular basis. Encourage your staff to do the same and display

am a believer of what is possible. I now believe I can produce more

their goals where they can see them as well. Create team or office goals and display

and do it with less stress.

these so staff can hold each other accountable.

A Case for Change

A Distinctive Patient Experience and Higher Production

Dental supply costs are increasing an average of 3 percent each year, compounding

Any successful dentist or office will state that it is the team that makes them

from 2009-2016 that results in a 22 percent price increase in

successful. It is so important to instill proper training and invest

dental supply costs alone. (Henry Schein; Lease Contracts;

in your team. This stretches from the front office to hygiene

Rise in average CPC US AdWords 2012-2014). The average wage of employees is rising 2-3 percent per year based on Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, a provider’s average fees are changing at a rate of -0.4-0.8 percent. This is what is called profit erosion. Meaning the average dentist has to produce

"I am a believer of what is possible. I now believe I can produce more and do it with less stress."

and assistants. Many of the staff that we hire are straight out of school; therefore, we can train them and create a great team. We teach the importance of a lean healthcare system. This creates improved morale, increased efficiency and boosted patient satisfaction. Anywhere work is being done, waste is being

2.5-5.5percent more dentistry to maintain the same level

generated; however, it should be minimized or removed to

of profitability in a year. Unfortunately, the average dentist’s

increase efficiency and effectiveness.

productivity has not kept pace, resulting in declining net income (ADA Health Policy Institute annual survey). Joining forces has helped dentists combat the economic, regulatory and quality pressures of a changing market. Before the year 2000, less than 10 percent of dentists were in groups. As of 2016 through the present, we are

During this process it is very important to have a Kaizen Event. A Kaizen Event is a

seeing a huge shift to more dentists joining group practices and that percentage is now

rapid, focused application of methods to reduce waste in particular areas of the office.

approximately 22 percent and rising quickly (Henry Schein Client Base).

A morning huddle, or an end of the day huddle with all the staff is a great example of the Kaizen Event. Asking the questions, “What worked?” and “What didn’t work?”

Start with Why

Once you know what is not working, come up with ways to fix the problem. Institute

Understanding why we do what we do is very important. Furthermore, letting your

these changes and then give at least three to five days to see the effects. If the changes

staff know why you do what you do is as important. You want your staff to believe

do not help, then revisit the original problem and come up with a different solution.

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14 RMDC 2018 mddsdentist.com

RMDC SPEAKER Have monthly office meetings to address any new issues and continue to work on existing issues. Addressing the day-to-day problems is the quickest way to become

3. Use an intra-oral camera to help confirm treatment recommendations with patient.

less stressed and function more efficiently.

The Dentist

Top 3 Tips to Reduce Common Dental Office “Waste”

The dentist’s role consists of diagnosing, presenting recommendations and completing treatment. Building rapport with your patients can happen quickly by

1. Tub System: Use a tub system to expedite treatment and minimize inventory required during procedures. Ensure

everything is present so the dental assistant doesn’t have to get up

addressing the patient’s chief complaint. If this gets overlooked, it is likely the patient will not return.

during a procedure. Tubs are easier to keep stocked.

2. Supply Formulary: Custom supply formularies enable the dental assistant to have less ordering errors. They help to stay on budget and speed-up the ordering process.

3. Radios: Radios are an effective way to help communication and eliminate excessive movement around the office. This in turn will speed up decision-making. Nearly every dental consultant or practice management company says these are a “must have.”

The Dental Assistant The dental assistant is the most important and significant player in the team. They keep the office running smoothly and will help direct the dentist, so they stay on time.

Invest in your assistants by offering more advanced training. This training will be paid back ten times by allowing assistants to help during more advanced procedures and being able to do more without the dentist in the room. The more invested the assistant is in the practice, the more loyalty you will see. It is more expensive to train a new assistant then to invest in the good ones you already have.

1. Be flexible: work in same-day treatment, see walk-ins. Appointing same-day or next-day treatment improves show-up rates by 56 percent. (Dentistry IQ-2013) 2. Eliminate excessive talking: Excessive talking with a

patient can add 2-5 minutes per appointment. This time tends to add up and when eliminated could save enough time to then add another patient during the same amount of time.

3. Be realistic with your time: The key to staying on time is being realistic and understanding how time is needed per procedure.

Use a timer and see how long it takes to prep a crown, prep a class 2, etc.

These tips are just some of the things that can continue to increase your production on an average day. Learning how to keep the patients you have and getting them back into the office is crucial in the everyday success of the practice. Some things to get started on are completing your goals and sharing them with staff. Attempt to

Top 3 Dental Assistant Accelerators

implement a few changes each week and refine the changes to work for the practice

1. Be prepared and organized before procedures so there are no interruptions.

during your Kaizen Events. Focus on the team approach and remember: “There is no I in team.”

2. Guide the dentist proactively to optimize schedule and flow.

3. Accountability to ensure the patient is presented financials

Top 3 Dentist Productivity Accelerators

and schedules the next appointment while the patient is still in the operatory.

The Hygienist

About the Author Dr. Scott Frederick graduated from USC School of Dentistry. After graduation he served as an active duty officer with the U.S. Army. Dr. Frederick has been a part-owner of Colorado Dental Group since 2011. He currently serves as Clinical Director of Peak Dental Services. He will be presenting this content at the 2018 Rocky Mountain Dental Convention (RMDC).

Any office would fail if there wasn’t a productive hygiene department. Not only is it important for the patient’s overall health but it also helps keep the dentist productive.

If hygiene is not busy then the dentist’s schedule and production will suffer. The hygienist has an important role of facilitating diagnosis, financial presentation, scheduling and completing treatment. Hygiene checks are a must in most offices.

Many dentists run behind when having treatment and hygiene checks at the same time. Let your hygienist help your practice run on time and create a great patient experience.

Top 3 Hygiene Steps to Boost Case Acceptance and Facilitate Running on Time 1. Have the hygienist point out existing conditions and identify possible treatment needed. Help “pre-heat” treatment needed resulting in the patient hearing it at least three times from the clinical staff.

2. Schedule emergency or limited exams in a hygiene chair if there is a cancellation or last-minute opening.

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TRAY TOOTH BLEACHING THE RIGHT THING AT THE RIGHT TIME

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By Van Haywood, DMD

f you rob a bank and give the money to the poor,

Once teeth reach their maximum whiteness, further treatment or

have you done the right thing? If you restore teeth

different products or concentrations will not improve that shade. Teeth

with the best possible porcelain veneers when the

look the best when they match the color of the sclera of the eyes.

teeth do not need veneers, have you done the right thing?

2) Prior to bleaching, the dentist should conduct a proper examination and analysis of the smile. This examination should include: • Evaluating how much of the teeth are showing in a full smile because

Bleaching teeth is one of the many treatments that everyone should have

the gingival area of teeth do not bleach as well as the incisal portion.

in their treatment options in order to do the right thing at the right time.

Once you have determined to do the right thing, then you need to do the

• Identifying the gummy smile because whiter teeth make the gummy

thing right (according to the wisdom of my late esteemed colleague, Dr.

smile more noticeable. Periodontal therapy for altered passive

Dick Tucker).

eruption may be first indicated.

technique for both the dental office and the patient is generally recognized as tray bleaching using a 10 % carbamide peroxide (CP).

• Normally discolored teeth can take three days to six weeks.

• Nicotine-stained teeth can take one to three months.

• Tetracycline-stained teeth can take two to 12 months or longer. The average for tetracycline-stained teeth is three to four months to get

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exposed roots do not bleach.

how quickly that whitening occurs. Tray bleaching expectations include:

18 3rd RMDC Quarter 20182017 mddsdentist.com mddsdentist.com

the restorations do not change color.

• Evaluating the results of the periodontal conditions because

The following checklist on tray bleaching may be helpful:

lighter, but not necessarily white.

• Identifying the existing restorations revealed in a full smile because

When considering bleaching, the most cost-efficient, safe and efficacious

1) Everybody’s teeth respond differently, both in how white they get and

• Recording all existing decay, gingival disharmony, history of

sensitivity or occlusal problems.

3) The dentist should take a screening radiograph of the anterior teeth to be bleached and any single dark tooth to determine the cause of the discoloration. That cause could include: • An abscessed tooth.

• Internal or external resorption.

RMDC SPEAKER • Calcific metamorphosis (the pulp chamber obliterated by secondarydentin).

found in most desensitizing toothpastes in the U.S. Professional products are also available, as well as bleaching products, which contain potassium

• Different size pulp chambers.

nitrate.

• Caries.

10) Bleaching should not be started immediately after a prophylaxis.

• Cysts or tumors.

Before initiating bleaching and to reduce sensitivity issues, it is best to wait

4) There are two different bleaching materials that require different instructions for the patients. CP is composed of hydrogen peroxide and urea. CP is best worn overnight, as it is active for 6-10 hours. Hydrogen peroxide (HP) is only active for 30 to 60 minutes, so it is applied during the day. A 10% CP product is comparable to a 3.5% HP product. Because CP has a long activity time, it takes fewer nights to reach the same shade as HP worn during the day. Conversely, HP worn during the day will take more

two weeks. During this time the patient should brush with a desensitizing toothpaste to further reduce the chance of sensitivity.

11) Because bleaching materials penetrate the tooth and release oxygen, the bond strengths of composite to enamel are reduced by 50% if bonding is performed immediately after bleaching. The dentist should wait two weeks after bleaching for the oxygen to dissipate before initiating bonding

days of less wear time to equal the nighttime bleaching with CP.

procedures.

5) The pH to get tooth decay on dentin is below 6.8 and in enamel is below

12) The oxygen released during bleaching also affects the shade of the tooth, so the patient should not be bleaching for two

5.5. Because CP has urea, the pH of the mouth and in the tray is elevated above 8 within five minutes of insertion such that patients cannot get tooth decay while wearing the bleaching tray with CP. Hence CP in a tray may be used for caries control when fluoride in a tray is not working. HP has a pH of 5, so does not favor tooth protection for long-term wear.

"Once you have determined to do the right thing, then you need to do the thing right."

6) Different tray designs are important for different products, different concentrations and different patients. Ten% CP was originally designed to treat the gingivae as an oral antiseptic (Glyoxide), so trays can be made that extend onto the tissue 1-2 millimeters for a more comfortable, better seal.

The gingival health in research projects always improves during bleaching.

Concentrations higher than 10% require scalloping the tray such that there

weeks prior to a shade being taken for a crown or composite. Since some patients may be using overthe-counter products unknown to the dental office, it is important that the receptionist question the patient before scheduling an appointment that involves bonding or shade matching.

13) Restorations will not change color from any type of

bleaching. While the surface will be cleaned, which may result in a more favorable-appearing restoration, the color is the same. Patients need to be informed of the cost of replacing unaesthetic restorations as a separate fee from the bleaching fee.

is no tissue contact to avoid tissue burning.

14) A single dark tooth is best treated with a single tooth bleaching tray

7) Spacers or reservoirs are not needed to bleach teeth as only a thin film of

maximum whitening before changes are attempted on the adjacent teeth.

material is required with tray isolation, but reservoirs account for tight or ill-fitting trays. A proper alginate impression (where the adhesive has set for 10 minutes in the tray before use, the impression is held in the mouth for one minute past tacky and poured within 15-45 minutes without bubbles) creates an excellent fitting non-scalloped, no reservoir tray for

rather than a full-mouth tray. This allows the single tooth to reach its A single-tooth tray is fabricated by taking a full-mouth tray extended further onto the tissue, and removing the tooth molds so that the bleaching material only contacts the single dark tooth. While there is much more information about how to do the thing right with bleaching, these points provide a starting point for good quality patient care.

10% CP. 8) Tooth sensitivity is a result of the easy passage of peroxide through intact enamel and dentin to the pulp in five to 15 minutes. This easy passage changes the color of the dentin as well as the enamel. Sensitivity is a transient pulpitis, and the higher the concentration, the greater the sensitivity.

9) In addition to a proper fitting tray and low concentration of CP, the best treatment for sensitivity involves the tray application of 5% potassium nitrate for 10-30 minutes prior or after bleaching. Potassium nitrate is

About the Author Dr. Van Haywood is a Professor in the Department of Restorative Sciences, Dental College of Georgia at Augusta University. In 1989, he co-authored the first publication in the world on Nightguard vital bleaching (at-home tray bleaching) with Dr. Harald Heymann. He has over 145 publications on the tray bleaching technique and bleaching and esthetics. His book, Tooth Whitening: Indications and Outcomes of Nightguard Vital Bleaching, was published in 2007. Since 2001, he has been listed every year in the “Top Leaders in Continuing Education” for the United States by Dental Products Report.

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RMDC SPEAKER

THE FIRST FIVE YEARS AFTER DENTAL SCHOOL

By Brett Broda, DDS

L

ao Tzu said, “The journey of a thousand miles

heading the wrong direction.

begins with one step,” but it may be more relevant to say, “The career of 30 years begins with one day.”

Once you have a clear vision, you can start to decide how to get there. There

Dentistry can an amazing profession, but decisions

are many roads to take in dentistry. You can build a new practice, buy an

early on can have a big impact on your career. Are

existing practice, become a partner in a practice, join a community or public

you taking a path towards success or failure, early or late

health clinic or become an associate. The majority of new graduates will

retirement, satisfaction or discontent, financial well-being or instability? Do

become an associate first. As an associate you will be working for someone

you have the skills to succeed? Do you know how to get them?

else, usually in private practice or with a dental support organization (DSO).

An associateship is a great time to learn as much as you can and get paid to

Dentistry can provide a great lifestyle, income and job satisfaction;

do it! You want to look for places that help support you as you move towards

furthermore, there’s a lot of ways to get there. Your first years after dental

your goals. Keep an eye out for opportunities that have mentors, continuing

school should set you up for the career and life you want.

education programs and enough patients/work to support your needs. For new grads especially, you will want a guaranteed salary until you can start

Where to start? The single most important thing you need is to have a vision.

to produce enough to support yourself. Don’t make the mistake of saving

What do you want your life to look like? What type of practice do you want

some money and not hiring an attorney to look over your employment

to be in? Where do you want to live and work? How does this align with your

contract. You’re a dentist, not a lawyer. The people you’re negotiating with

spouse or family? Without a defined vision, it’s impossible to know if you’re

used a lawyer to create the contract, and you’re at a disadvantage if you do

working towards your goals or not. This isn’t easy, most people struggle with

not have an attorney on your side as well. There are people who will try to

it. Take some time to think about it seriously, but don’t procrastinate too

take advantage of you and it can cost you big time in the long run.

long! You don’t want to be five years into your career and realize you’ve been

Continued on page 23

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MOST FINANCIAL COMPANIES WANT YOU TO INVEST IN THEM. WE’D RATHER INVEST IN YOU.

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Save the Date

Dentists at the Capitol Lobby Day Friday, Feb. 16, 2018 We need you!

8 a.m.-noon

Help the CDA keep Colorado legislators informed about topics important to dentistry.

Each year, CDA dentists spend a half day at the state Capitol talking with legislators and answering questions specific to healthcare.

Training will be provided.

FEBRUARY 2018 Su Mo Tu We Th Fr 1 2 4 5 6 7 8 9 11 12 13 14 15 16 18 19 20 21 22 23 25 26 27 28

Sa 3 10 17 24

Contact Krysia Gabenski to register at 303-996-2845 or krysia@cdaonline.org

Save the Date!

2018 ANNUAL SESSION

June 8-10, 2018 Elevation Resort & Spa

cdaonline.org/annualsession

House of Delegates • Family Fun • CE Courses • Networking 22

Continued from page 20 Finding a job is only part of the story. What are you supposed to do with the money you’re making and let’s not forget about that student debt! Jim Dahle of The White Coat Investor said, “like it or not, you have a second job.” Personal finance is your second job and you need to educate yourself on it. Just because you’re a doctor does not guarantee your financial well-being. The average age of retiring dentists is 71 years old and is going up! The good news is there are people that can help you. Working with a good financial planner can help you plan for retirement, a practice purchase or buy-in and manage student

matter if patients don’t say yes to treatment. Your team is

"Dentistry can provide a great lifestyle, income and job satisfaction; furthermore, there’s a lot of ways to get there. Your first years after dental school should set you up for the career and life you want."

debt. Financial planners can be a great resource, but

a reflection of you and they will look to you for how to behave and act. Be the person you want the people on your team to be! Even as an associate this is important.

Remember, the way you practice today is how you’re training yourself to practice in the future. Dental school taught you clinical skills, but it’s up to you to develop your leadership and communication skills. This is what separates a good dentist from a great one.

The first five years after dental school are terrifying and exciting. The road to a successful career in dentistry beings one day at a time. You have some big decisions to make

it’s not an excuse to hand off all your responsibilities. It’s your money and,

and a lot of work to do. What steps will you take towards your vision?

ultimately, it’s up to you to know what’s happening to it.

community. Patients look to you for your expert advice and care. You

About the Author Dr. Brett Broda is a University of Minnesota School of Dentistry graduate, currently practicing in Aurora, CO. Dr. Broda will be speaking on the first five years after dental school and strategies for success this January at the Rocky

need to be able to listen and then effectively communicate in order to

Mountain Dental Convention (RMDC).

Now that you’re working and managing your money, it’s time to develop yourself. As a dentist you are a leader among your office and your

treat them. You can have the best hand skills in the world, but it doesn’t

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BE A PART OF HISTORY IN THE MAKING AS RMDC CELEBRATES 110 YEARS! RMDC has come a long way from the Midwinter Meeting and men’s only receptions. Join us January 18 – 20 at the Colorado Convention Center, as our speakers explore the latest advancements in dentistry and our vendors display the newest technology on in the exhibit hall. Discover what else the 2018 RMDC has to offer, register for courses or make your hotel reservations by visiting rmdconline.com now!

110th

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TRIPARTITE NEWS

Strategic Plan Seeks to Strengthen Organization for the Future

By Greg Hill, J.D., CAE

T

he Colorado Dental Association (CDA) empowers member dentists to build thriving practices and careers by providing government relations and lobbying, professional development, tools that can enhance the management of a dental practice and insurance and regulatory support. By fostering a community that helps dentists focus on their passion of providing patients with the best level of care, we are helping ensure superior oral health in our state.

The CDA Strategic Plan, approved by the Board of Trustees in 2017, provides the framework for this vision. Specifically, the plan involves three key areas: • Ensuring an Efficient and Viable Organization for the Future • Creating the Infrastructure for Recruitment and Retention of Members • Ensuring Quality Dental Care for All In just a short period of time, the CDA has made significant progress on this plan, including lobbying for the passage of Senate Bill 190, which stops dental plans from dictating fees for noncovered services; redesigning the CDA website for easier navigation; refocusing CDA endorsed products, utilizing CDA Enterprises; and recommitting support to the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine through a CDA Foundation supported campaign. Last year, the membership market share increased after seven years of decline and we are on pace to surpass last year’s growth numbers.

"By fostering a community that helps dentists focus on their passion of providing patients with the best level of care, we are helping ensure superior oral health in our state."

Despite these successes, we still have goals to achieve. We are working with every component to ensure their leaders are best prepared to lead the profession. We are launching a President-Elect’s Leadership Conference this spring. Legislatively, we will continue the conversations around insurance reform and plan design while seeking to ensure the continuation of the adult dental benefit through the Colorado Medicaid program.

This plan seeks to grow the organization from its grassroots and it is designed to give more members more opportunities to be engaged in the work of organized dentistry and the needs of the profession. I look forward to a continued collaboration with MDDS as we seek to strengthen, grow and empower our members.

I believe that by working toward the same goals, the CDA and MDDS can grow stronger and be more impactful organizations, building successful futures for our members.

CDA Launches Diversity in Leadership The CDA believes that leadership is an activity and not a position. Any and all members can lead anywhere, anytime. Our goal is to ensure our membership and volunteer leadership represent a strong, vibrant and evolving model of diversity and inclusion for the dental community and the diverse patients who are served.

The CDA created Diversity in Leadership, a new program designed to enhance the leadership skills of dentists who belong to all racial, ethnic and gender backgrounds, while at the same time bringing a variety of professional and personal experience to our leadership team.

The goals of the program are to develop leadership skills through accelerated education, mentoring and volunteer service. This program will also broaden the professional network of the program participants and give them an opportunity to apply what they have learned to a leadership project. Talented and highly motivated individuals who belong to underrepresented groups and practice models as well as those who have demonstrated leadership in their communities and their professions are encouraged to apply.

Participants are expected to attend three face-to-face sessions during the twoyear program; participate in monthly 60-minute conference calls with CDA staff, advisors and other participants; actively participate in an online platform; and complete a leadership project.

Interested candidates can apply at cdaonline.org/diversity-leadership or contact Erica Carvin, CDA Director of Membership, at erica@cdaonline.org.

About the Author Greg Hill has served as the Executive Director of the Colorado Dental Association since June of 2014. Prior to joining the CDA, Greg was employed by the Kansas Dental Association for 15 years and served as the Assistant Executive Director of the CDA and Executive Director of its Foundation.

Mr. Hill is a 1999 graduate of the Washburn University School of Law in Topeka, KS and a 1994 graduate of Kansas State University with a Bachelor of Science in Economics. He became a Certified Association Executive in 2016.

In addition, he serves as Co-Chair and Treasurer of Oral Health Colorado; on the Board of Directors for the Colorado Dental Lifeline Network and the Colorado Mission of Mercy and is a member of the Denver Tech Center Rotary Club.

He and his wife, Gwen, are the parents of daughter, Haven, and son, Camden.

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OSHA

What’s Running Through Your Dental Unit Water Lines?

By George G. Gatseos II, CEO, DDS, MSBA

T

he Center for Disease Control (CDC) established guidelines (December 19, 2003) for dental practices to achieve a water quality standard of 500 colony forming units (CFUs) per milliliter (ml) for routine dental treatment output water. Thus, the number of bacteria in water used as a coolant/irrigant for non-surgical dental procedures should be as low as reasonably achievable and at a minimum <500CFU/ml; the regulatory standard for safe drinking water as established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), American Public Health Association (APHA) and American Water Works Association (AWWA).

practices included in the survey was whether a single water system was implemented for each dental unit, and if water quality had been evaluated at least once over the past year. While the CDC recommends that dental practices monitor water quality, it does not provide guidelines regarding the frequency of monitoring. It does however suggest that practices work with the dental unit/ water delivery system manufacturer to ascertain the most effective strategy for ensuring acceptable water quality. Of the practices that participated in the survey, 33% utilized separate water systems and monitored water quality at least once per year. On the other hand, 32% reported they did not use separate water systems or monitor water quality.” (2)

Heterotrophic plate count bacteria "Biofilm is a coating or can reach 200,000 CFU/ml within five (5) days after new dental unit covering on the surface waterlines are installed, and levels of a living or a non-living as high as 1,000,000 CFU/ml have substrate composed of been documented. These counts can occur because dental unit microorganisms such as waterline factors (system design, bacteria, protozoa and flow rates and materials) promote algae (i.e. plaque)." bacterial growth and development of Biofilm. Biofilm is a coating or covering on the surface of a living or a non-living substrate composed of microorganisms such as bacteria, protozoa and algae (i.e. plaque). It is a highly complex microbial structure that exists in all environments, including water and solids. The plaque on teeth that causes gingival disease is Biofilm.

It is critical as dentists that we provide the safest office visits possible for our patients. Dental water may be maintained at levels below the current CDC standard (<500CFU/ml). Systems are available that are easy to use and provide continuous treatment at minimal costs per patient. The failure to ensure safe drinking water standards with our non-surgical dental unit water puts both our patients and staff at risk. Additionally, it is not consistent with the Hippocratic

An article written by Eve Cuny states, “A lack of awareness regarding the CDC’s recommendations for dental unit water quality – including monitoring programs – was reported in a survey conducted by the CDC’s Division of Oral Health. It surveyed a stratified random sampling of 6,825 US dentists. Only one dentist per practice was chosen for the survey, and the response rate was 49%.” (1) This article goes on to say, “One of the CDC-recommended infection control

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Oath to “do no harm.”

REFERENCES 1) Cleveland J, Foster M, Barker L, et al. Advancing infection control in dental care settings: Factors associated with dentists’ implementation of guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. J Am Dent Assoc. 2012; 143; 1127-1138.

2) Cuny EJ. Management Strategies for Dental Unit Waterlines. Decisions in Dentistry: http://decisisonsindentistry. com. April 2017;3(4):1127-1138.

About the Author George G. Gatseos II, DDS, MSBA, is Chief Executive Officer of Safe Dental Services, a Colorado-based dental infection control and practice consulting firm specializing in Occupational Safety and Health Administration training and compliance for dental professionals. An author and lecturer, Dr. Gatseos recently spoke for the Council on Dental Practice for the 2016 American Dental Association Annual Meeting in Denver. He is also a past board member of the Organization of Asepsis & Prevention (OSAP) and is currently serving on OSAP’s Program Development Committee for its Annual Symposium.

The 2017 DISC series was a great success thanks to you, our sponsors, and all of our members. We have already begun planning for an exciting 2018 with great speakers and topics.

Look for the new schedule to be released in the next few months. We look forward to seeing everyone again.

THANK YOU!

2017

ALDO LEOPARDI, BDS, DDS, MS PROSTHODONTIST

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Be sure to check out the RMDC HANDS-ON COURSES being held at the:

MOUNTAIN WEST DENTAL INSTITUTE!

Visit MDDSdentist.com for a full schedule of other upcoming courses at the MWDI! • 140-seat Auditorium (can be divided in two)

• Equipped to capture and stream live video

• Banquet Hall

• MDDS members receive a 15% discount

• 20-seat Executive Board Room • Hands-on Learning Lab Benches for 40 participants

• Multi-day & multi-room discounts • A/V always included

• Large Wet Lab

• No catering restrictions

• Four (4) Educational Operatories including one (1) equipped for surgery

• Free Wi-Fi • Two (2) free parking structures

• 2D/3D Digital Imaging Suite

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• Planmeca PlanScan™ • (mill & scanner)

Metro Denver Dental Society | 925 Lincoln Street, Unit B, Denver, CO 80203 (303) 488-9700

EVENT CALENDAR

JANUARY

MARCH

APRIL

January 18-20 Rocky Mountal Dental Convention Colorado Convention Center 700 14th Street Denver, CO 80202 All Day (303) 488-9700

March 3-4 Fundamentals of Bone Grafting and Socket Preservation, Level I/ Bone Grafting and Sinus Elevation, Level II - Dr. Brian Gurinsky Mountain West Dental Institute 925 Lincoln Street, Unit B Denver, CO 80203 9:00am-5:00pm/day (303) 488-9700

April 6-7 Recognition and Management of Medical Emergencies: Participate in an Advanced & Realistic Clinical Simulation - Dr. Jeffrey Young Children's Hospital Colorado 13123 E 16th Ave. Aurora, CO 80045 9:00am-4:00pm/day (303) 488-9700 February 20

FEBRUARY February 2 Give Kids a Smile Day All Day (303) 488-9700 February 20 CPR & AED Training Mountain West Dental Institute 925 Lincoln Street, Unit B Denver, CO 80203 6:00pm-9:00pm (303) 488-9700 February 22 MDDS New Member Welcome Event Location TBD 6:00pm-8:00pm (303) 488-9700 February 23 Basic Radiation Training for Dental Personnel Mountain West Dental Institute 925 Lincoln Street, Unit B Denver, CO 80203 8:00am-12:00pm (303) 488-9700

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March 9-10 Dental Laser Certification: Utilize Today's Dental Lasers in Managing Periodontal/Soft Tissue Conditions - Dr. Sam Low Mountain West Dental Institute 925 Lincoln Street, Unit B Denver, CO 80203 8:00am-5:00pm Friday 8:00am-12:00pm Saturday (303) 488-9700 March 17 Access to Care Float – Denver St. Patrick’s Day Parade Downtown Denver All Day (303) 488-9700 March 24 Growing Your Practice Through Endodontics - Dr. John West Mountain West Dental Institute 925 Lincoln Street, Unit B Denver, CO 80203 8:00am-5:00pm (303) 488-9700

CPR & AED Training Mountain West Dental Institute 925 Lincoln Street, Unit B Denver, CO 80203 6:00pm-9:00pm (303) 488-9700 April 13-14 Botulinum Toxin & Dermal Fillers Levels I, II & III & Frontline TMJ & Orofacial Pain Level I Mountain West Dental Institute 925 Lincoln Street, Unit B Denver, CO 80203 8:00am-5:00pm (303) 488-9700

JUNE June 15 Nitrous Oxide/Oxygen Administration Training - Dr. Jeffrey Young Mountain West Dental Institute 925 Lincoln Street, Unit B Denver, CO 80203 8:00am-4:00pm (303) 488-9700

CLASSIFIEDS Practice Sales/Real Estate: Dental Space for Lease: Westminster CO - Suite #150 totals 2188sf with 5-chairs and Suite #170 totals 4649sf with 12-chairs.

Perfect location for a start-up, relocation or satellite. Space fully built out for dental including plumbing. Call Michelle Gayeski at 720-290-4447.

General Practice: SE Metro Denver, CO (CO 1621) Annual Revenues $800K, 4 Ops + room for 1 more, 1,500 square feet, Condo sold with practice, Dr. Retiring. ADS Precise Consultants, adsprecise.com, email: frontdesk@adsprecise.com, 800-307-2537.

Perio Practice for Sale: (CO 1723) Denver Suburbs South. Annual Rev $530K, 4 ops/2 equipped, 1,964 sq. ft. - beautiful office. Dr. Retiring.

General Practice for Sale: Lakewood, CO (CO 1713) - Annual Revenues $1.2M, 5 Ops + 1 plumbed, 2, 300 square feet, Dr. Retiring. ADS Precise Consultants, email: frontdesk@adsprecise. com, 800-307-2537, www.adsprecise.com.

GP for Sale: Northeastern CO (CO 1735), 4 Ops, approx 600K in collections, Dr. retiring, ADS Precise Consultants, 303-759-8425, www.adsprecise.com, email: frontdesk@adsprecise.com.

General Practice for Sale: Aurora (South), CO (CO 1733) $650k collections, 3 Ops, Dr. relocating out of region. ADS Precise Consultants, 303-759-8425, www.adsprecise.com, email: frontdesk@adsprecise.com.

Visit mddsdentist.com/classifieds to place an ad.

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Knowledge • Experience • Credentials • Trust More “Completed Transitions” and

“Years of Practice Transition Experience” than any brokerage firm in Colorado.

ADS Precise Consultants D D S , FA G D • J e d E s p o s i t o M B A , C VA • S t e v e S t e i n b r u n n e r C N E Pe t e M i r a b i t o

• Practice Sales Since 1986 • Practice Valuations

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• Start-Ups • Buy Ins/Buy Outs

Call us - 800.307.2537 Visit us - adsprecise.com All ADS companies are independently owned and operated

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