PDS Life Winter 2024

Thank You for Being Part of the PDS Health Story

Message from the FOUNDER & CEO

Some of the best companies in the country attribute their success to a healthy workplace culture with thriving team member engagement. For PDS Health, our culture is many things: High-performing, incentivebased, service-hearted, people-focused, collaborative, entrepreneurial, creative and continuously improving. The common thread that connects us to our culture and reminds us why it matters are the stories we share with each other.

There are so many stories that get me excited. For example, there was one of a team member becoming the first college graduate in her family thanks to the PDS Health College Advancement Program. And another of a patient with diabetes who was able to improve his periodontal health because of more coordinated care between his primary care provider and a PDS Health dentist. Or the success stories of flailing offices turning around and becoming XP award winners. There are countless stories of lives changed through our annual Smile Generation Serve Day and volunteerism. Or when our We Believes are demonstrated in real life through the Daily XP.

These small stories create the larger picture of who we are and what PDS Health values. As we continue to grow, passing these stories down to the future generation of leaders — the wisdom gained, experiences shared and values lived — will be essential to preserving our culture created over the last three decades.

Traditionally, I reserve this message to tell you everything we are doing as a company. For this issue, I would like to hear from you.

We are PDS Health: Tell Us Your Story

We invite you to become part of the ongoing narrative by telling us your story.

• What gets you excited to come to work every day?

• Who inspires you to be your best self and why?

• What is one thing that makes you proud to be a PDS Health team member?

• What is a favorite memory? A favorite experience?

• What is your “why”?

If it is meaningful to you, then it’s meaningful to us. Please submit your story on the PDSConnect intranet so we can recognize you in an upcoming Daily XP, social media post, PDS Life magazine article or on our website. Our stories ARE our culture. And we are grateful you are part of it.

Here’s to your health and happiness,

Stephen Thorne, Founder and CEO

Brittany Vafamanesh

Vicki

INVE $ TING IN YOU

JOANNA RODGERS Chief Administrative Officer and SVP, People

At PDS Health, our talented people — you — are our greatest investment, which is why we continue to expand programs to recruit and retain the best to help you find your passion, fulfill your dreams and build your future. Whether clinical or non-clinical, we offer a wide range of programs to help you continue (and afford) your education, maintain and strengthen clinical training and connect you with mentorship and leadership development opportunities. We truly believe that when you succeed, we all do.

SUPPORT FOR TEAM MEMBERS

PDS Health offers multiple programs that make education more affordable and accessible. We understand that completing your education or getting an advanced degree opens new doors and can help you build your future — we want to ensure it’s within reach.

PDS Health offers a range of education, training and leadership development programs to help you on your career journey.

• 100% up front tuition coverage for any undergraduate program offered at Arizona State University (ASU), including books and application fees.

• Pursue your passion and advance your education, choosing from 100+ undergraduate degrees in top-ranked programs at ASU.

• 100% online coursework, accessible anywhere. To qualify, you must be a full-time team member at PDS Health working as a dental or medical assistant, healthcare coordinator or medical patient care coordinator, operations manager or medical operations manager.

The PDS Health CAP currently has a limited number of spots available and they are first-come, first-served. The wait list ranges from six months to over a year. Learn more about the program at pacificdentalservices.instride.com or call (800) 381-9683 to speak to an advisor.

“Getting my bachelor’s degree is something I wanted to do and tried to do several times and it never really worked out financially. This was the smoothest process, PDS Health took care of everything, even a book voucher…It’s an amazing feeling to have no financial burden. There is no limit to the possibilities and I’m super excited to see what this degree will do for me and what doors this opens.”

– Fay Tatom, Specialty Healthcare Coordinator, Citrus Heights Modern Dentistry (Office 98), Citrus Heights, Calif., graduated with a bachelor of arts degree in organizational leadership from ASU in May 2024

PDS Health College Advancement Program (CAP)

Tuition Reimbursement

For team members interested in pursuing an associate’s, bachelor’s or graduate degree, PDS Health may reimburse costs incurred from an accredited university or college up to $5,250 per year, the maximum allowed under IRS regulations. The degree and coursework must be related to your current position or lead to growth opportunities within PDS Health, and must be approved by your regional partner or department vice president prior to enrollment in courses. Full or part-time team members with 90 days of continuous employment are eligible to apply.

If you are interested in participating in tuition reimbursement, speak with your immediate manager.

Student Debt Refinancing

“I pursued my credentials to advance my career, and it’s definitely been helpful in opening new opportunities...I would encourage anyone considering it to go for it! The decisions to enter higher education while maintaining a full-time job and being a full-time mother is very daunting. When you add on the added pressure of accumulating a large debt, the idea of pursuing this dream becomes even more impractical. With assistance from the tuition reimbursement program, it has helped make a dream become reality.

$20,000 Fact & Stats

In partnership with SoFi, PDS Health offers student loan refinancing assistance. This program provides student debt rate discounts and connects team members with a specialist who provides a personalized financial assessment to help lower monthly loan payments and offers other recommendations based on your preferences. If you are interested in speaking with a specialist from SoFi, call (833) 277-7634 or email your-benefits@SoFi.com. the average savings per team member

1,500

PDS Health team members who received help refinancing their loans

– Amanda Villanueva, Registered Dental Hygienist, Orange Village Dentistry (Office 413), earned her master’s degree in dental hygiene

Leadership Development Resources

PDS Health offers several leadership development programs that are designed to help team members elevate their leadership skills and provide insights into their strengths to build a growth plan. While there will be more programs available soon, there are two programs that standout as especially valuable and that team members can access right now.

CliftonStrengths® Assessment

A tool from Gallup that helps identify a team member’s unique talents and strengths. The results are used to help you leverage better performance both individually and within your team. The assessment provides your top five strengths out of 34 along with tips that are used to create an action plan to help you achieve your goals.

While the test can be completed individually, it is most beneficial when completed as a team. PDS Health team members who completed the assessment and strategy session found it to boost morale and improve team cohesion and collaboration.

“Gallup CliftonStrengths has been an absolute game changer in our region, as it has empowered team members to focus on their natural strengths. Team members have stated they felt improvement in their overall mental health, including feeling fulfilled, valued and less anxious.”

– Mary Head, Manager, Talent Development, North/South Las Vegas Region

Leadership 360

This tool is typically used by leaders and managers in PDS Health field and support offices.

It begins with an anonymous survey completed by your manager, colleagues and direct reports that provides a 360-degree review of your leadership disciplines and behavior.

From the anonymous surveys, feedback is compiled based on the 5 Disciplines of a PDS Health Leader, the 5 Elements of Trust and the We Believes to create an individual development plan (IDP). If there’s an area with room for improvement or any area you would like to develop further, an IDP can be built around it to strengthen it.

“The 360 Feedback program provided valuable insight into my strengths and areas for growth, revealing that different roles and departments had varying perceptions and expectations of me. This helped me understand that each team looks for something different from me, reinforcing my commitment to adapting my leadership style, enhancing communication and engaging more effectively across the unique needs of each team.”

– Thomas Smith, Director, Automation & Analytics, Revenue Collection

If you are interested in completing a Leadership 360 survey, reach out to the organizational and talent development team at orgdev@pacden.com to schedule a consultation and learn more about the cost and the process.

Thorne Center for Excellence

The Thorne Center for Excellence offers several programs designed to empower, engage and build a broad and deep collection of talented leaders to shape the future of PDS Health as we continue to grow in the markets we serve.

The main program, Leadership Edge, hosts two cohorts a year of senior leaders from PDS Health teams. Participants are identified in the annual talent review process with final cohort approval by Steve Thorne.

The seven-month program includes four areas of focus:

• Leadership Brand – Participants review known leadership styles, how to articulate personal values and stories in order to better focus on becoming a leader others choose to follow.

• Leadership Influence – Identify opportunity and build skill in each of PDS Health’s 5 Elements of Trust to motivate and inspire action in others and create highly engaged and productive teams.

• Leadership Impact – Focus on driving results personally and through others and learn how to use accountability to improve relationships and results.

• Leadership Vision – Identify talent in others to grow and develop current and future PDS Health leaders.

Each Leadership Edge cohort meets for four in-person sessions that include guest speakers and three virtual sessions to reinforce coursework. One of the featured speakers in 2024 was Olympic track and field relay coach for Team USA, Mechelle Freeman, pictured with the inaugural cohort.

Congratulations to our first graduating cohort (in alphabetical order): Lionel Clayton, Regional Partner, South Inland Empire; Deepika Dhama, DDS, MultiPractice Owner Dentist; Diana Do-Yabut, DMD, Regional Clinical Partner and Multi-Practice Owner Dentist; Matt Ornelas, Regional Partner, Greater Sacramento; John Pham, Sr. Director of Digital Marketing and Operations; Stephanie Ross, Regional Partner, Northern Colorado; Kim Valko, Regional Partner, Inland Desert; Chris Yamashita, Vice President of Finance and Karim Zaklama, DDS, Regional Clinical Partner and Multi-Practice Owner Dentist.

The next Leadership Edge cohort will begin in January 2025.

HAL-C Higher Ambition Leadership Certificate

This certificate is designed for high-performing leaders at the manager and director level to advance their skills and engage their teams. The 12-week program is virtual and includes two hours of online work followed by a twohour workshop with up-to 36 members in the cohort each week.

Participants are from a cross-section of different companies and placed in virtual teams to help internalize new concepts and complete assignments. The curriculum is designed to be iterative and encourages inquiry and self-discovery.

“HAL-C helped me explore and enhance my leadership skills to better serve in my role and support team members at PDS Health. The weekly virtual sessions were accessible and provided me with tools that helped me examine my strengths and areas for growth as well as create a more clearly defined purpose and values. Since completing the program, I’ve successfully used the tools and insights I learned to improve my communication and management techniques.”

– Jennie Browning, Sr. Director, IT Business Services

General Leadership Development Courses

Available at any time to team members are leadership development courses rooted in 5 Disciplines of a PDS Health Leader and 5 Elements of Trust. These courses reinforce the PDS Health Leadership Model and can be taken at any point in your career journey to deepen knowledge and expertise.

The goal of these courses, in addition to HAL-C and the Leadership Edge program, is to empower and encourage your growth so that all team members can develop the skills necessary to be successful.

If you are interested in one of these programs, please reach out to the organizational and talent development team at orgdev@pacden.com

SUPPORT FOR CLINICIANS

Continuing Education

Clinical excellence is woven into the culture at PDS Health and we offer comprehensive continuing education (CE) for dental, medical and specialty clinicians.

Clinical education offerings have three main areas of focus:

1. Clinical Excellence

2. Business Acumen

3. Leadership Fundamentals for Providers

Within these focus areas are courses, hands-on workshops and training that are complimentary to team members. This allows providers to maintain their licenses and credentials, and expand their knowledge and expertise so they can continue to deliver exceptional care while growing their career.

Whether you’re onboarding as a new associate dentist and getting a crash course in CEREC ® CAD/CAM training or you’re a dental assistant seeking guidance and support in pursuing your dreams of becoming a dentist, continuing education is designed to support you at every level.

We created the curriculum so that you can see a path toward a life-long career in health care.

CLINICAL PATHWAYS

“Transitioning from dental assistant to associate dentist has been a journey of continuous growth. Each challenge I faced and each skill I acquired has been a testament to the power of pushing beyond comfort zones and embracing challenges as opportunities to evolve. Every step beyond familiar boundaries is a step towards realizing the full potential of my passion for patient care.”

– Raouf Alsebei, DMD, Associate Dentist, Water Tower Dental Group (Office 816)

Visit the digital course catalog with 30+ subject matters.

Associate Dentist

First 120 Days — Introduction to Clinical Excellence (ICE):

• Epic Fundamentals

• The Mouth-Body Connection

• CBCT Clinical Basics

• The Perfect Patient Experience™

• CEREC® CAD/CAM

• Diagnosis and Treatment Planning

120 Days — 1 year:

• Inlay/Onlay Restoration Basics

• Extraction & Bone Grafting

• Posterior CEREC

• Implant Restorative Continuum

1+ year:

• Anterior CEREC

• Occlusion

• Restoring Implants with CEREC

• Ownership Roadmap

• Implant Preceptorship

Hygienists

First 30 Days — Hygiene Introduction to Clinical Excellence (HICE):

• Epic Fundamentals

• CDT Codes and Best Practices

• Best Practices and the Periodontal Protocol

• Mouth-Body Connection and Saliva Diagnostics

• Varnish: Indications for Oral and Systemic Health

• Introduction to Fluorescence Screening

• Lasers for Dentistry

The Mouth-Body Connection ® for the Hygienist:

• Intro to the Mouth-Body Connection

• Chronic Inflammatory Disease — Hygienist

• Testing & Diagnostic Impact to Patient Care

• Understanding Heart Health

• Understanding Diabetic Health

• Understanding Brain Health

• Understanding Women’s Health

• Understanding Cancer Health

Dental Assistant Program

Dental Assistant in Training:

Eight-week program introducing team members to the dental assistant position and how it supports office staff and clinicians.

Dental Assistant Development:

Training Includes:

• Infection Control Protocols & Procedures

• Back Office Technology Overview (Epic®)

• Introduction to CEREC Design

Lead DA Program:

During this 14-week program, DAs will assess their leadership skills, learn how to positively influence the behavior of others to achieve goals and explore the importance of cultivating relationships built on trust. The program focuses on team member development, communication, time management, business acumen and lead assistant responsibilities.

Introduction to Clinical Excellence

The Introduction to Clinical Excellence (ICE) program is designed to equip PDS Health dentists with fundamental skills and knowledge of our dental platform. This program focuses on the Perfect Patient Experience™ to ensure quality patient communication as well as the fundamentals of CEREC ® technology. Participants will delve into effective diagnosis and treatment planning approaches that prioritize each patient’s overall health. Through hands-on training, case studies and expert-led discussions, this program aims to enhance clinical competencies while fostering a patient-centered approach to dental care.

For more information about continuing education for dentists, please contact Lacey Schicker at schickerl@pacden.com

Lead DA Program

This program builds and refines dental assistants’ leadership skills. The training focuses on how to motivate and lead team members to achieve goals and build trust in an office. The program focuses on personal development, communication, time management, business acumen and lead assistant responsibilities.

If you are interested in learning more about the Lead DA program, contact Rose Olague at olaguer@pacden.com

“The Lead DA program opened my eyes to opportunities I never believed would have been possible as a stay-at-home mom. PDS Health University provided me with the training and the resources so that I could help my team succeed. I was able to show new dentists how to streamline processes and help the team manage extremely busy schedules thanks to what I learned in the program.”

– Samantha Gravesen, Regional Back Office Trainer, Midwest Region

Dental Assistant in Training + Dental Assistant Development Program

The Dental Assistant in Training and Dental Assistant Development programs are considered the foundation of PDS Health University’s DA training.

The Dental Assistant in Training program is designed for team members with no oral health experience and provides an introduction to the DA position. The primary role of the Dental Assistant in Training is to become proficient in the basic functions and responsibilities of a DA so that they can support the clinical success of a dental practice. Team members progress through the eight-week Dental Assistant in Training program before moving on to the Dental Assistant Development program, which is a 12-week training that expands on their Dental Assistant in Training education and focuses on safety and infection protocols, CEREC and other processes to support clinicians and the back office.

Once all 20 weeks are complete, DAs have the tools to support an office and patients, and can further develop their career down a number of additional pathways at PDS Health University.

Dental Hygiene

As an oral healthcare provider and partner to the dentist, dental hygienists have a critical role in delivering direct patient care. An expert in the Mouth-Body Connection ®, dental hygienists help predict, prevent, treat and manage chronic inflammatory diseases like periodontal disease.

Through integration of technology and saliva diagnostics, dental hygienists are better equipped to provide precision care for their patients and, in some states, the ability to deliver targeted laser therapies that help patients achieve better disease management outcomes. The curriculum offered at PDS Health University offers some of the most advanced, evidence-based education and training available to providers within the industry.

If you’d like more information about the program, contact Summer LaMoureaux at lamoureauxs@pacden.com

“PDS Health University has been the key to unlocking my dental hygiene career. With state-of-the-art training, a community of peer mentors, and a focus on the latest technology and techniques, I have gained so much confidence and skills that have allowed me to better care for my patients.”

– LaShaundra Ruby, Registered Dental Hygienist and Clinical Hygiene Leader, Edgewood Smiles Dentistry (Office 889), Georgia Region

Your Success is Our Priority

These programs are designed to invest in our team members, supporting your growth and development at every stage of your professional journey. By providing resources, training and opportunities for advancement, we demonstrate our commitment to nurturing talent within our organization. Here are a few examples of team members who have been able to advance their careers at PDS Health.

CARYSSA COOK

Regional Manager, Reno Region

Employed with PDS Health: 8 years

“PDS Health’s investment in my development is deeply meaningful. It makes me feel valued and heard. I’m grateful for the growth opportunities I’ve discovered here. Special thanks to Regional Partner Alicia Montarbo, who has championed my progress from the start. Over eight years, I’ve grown personally and professionally in ways I never imagined. I’ve become more patient, confident and communicative, which has positively impacted me. This growth has enabled me to support my team’s development, just as I’ve been supported in mine.”

AMBER MCELVAIN

Regional Manager, Oregon Region

Employed with PDS Heath: 9 years

“Investing in my development through PDS Health has transformed my life and health, inspiring me to excel. Growth comes from embracing feedback, showing vulnerability and adapting to change. A positive mindset helps tackle daily challenges. My previous regional manager pushed me to grow personally and professionally, enhancing my EQ skills for better partnerships. Achieving my goal of becoming a regional manager in a new state has been an exciting challenge. I’m grateful for this opportunity and eager to reach more milestones with PDS Health, viewing my current role as a stepping stone in my ongoing career journey.”

TANIA RUIZ

Regional Manager, Greater Sacramento Region

Employed with PDS Health: 13 years

“PDS Health has provided excellent tools and resources for my professional growth. The organization’s support and community have boosted my confidence in making business impacts and building strong teams. The company’s investment in my development demonstrates its commitment to our team members’ future and shows that they value my contributions. This support has challenged me to improve my self-awareness and emotional intelligence, enhancing my leadership skills. I’ve had numerous opportunities to develop mentorship and coaching abilities, aligning with my long-term goals. I’m thrilled to continue growing with PDS Health and be part of our ongoing innovation.”

JACKIE DENMARK

Specialty Regional Manager, Georgia Region

Employed with PDS Heath: 8 years

“The investment in my development at PDS Health means a great deal, reflecting the organization’s commitment to my success and professional growth. It shows the organization values both my current contributions and future leadership potential. This support motivates me to continuously improve my skills and expand my knowledge base. Coming from a small-town private practice, PDS Health has opened my eyes to broader opportunities I hadn’t imagined. I’ve experienced significant personal and professional growth here and am thriving in this dynamic environment. I’m grateful for these opportunities and excited about my future with the organization.”

Creating a legacy through community involvement and education.

From an early age, Owner Dentist of Stillwater Modern Dentistry (Office 1016) Krista Koehler, DDS, knew she wanted to work with people. During high school she got involved in a summer program where she could intern at local businesses. After getting in touch with a local dentist who got her a job at a dental lab in town, she expressed interest in working with patients and got to work in his office as an assistant, beginning the next chapter in a storied and fulfilling career as a dentist.

Dedicated to a legacy built upon gratitude and the spirit of giving, Dr. Koehler wanted to look for ways she could provide others an opportunity to consider dentistry as a career. The opportunity came in 2024 when she became involved with a summer teacher externship program called Exploring Careers Through Industry Externships (EXCITE). The program connects classrooms to local businesses, serving as a valuable resource for both educators and students.

“Being a part of this program was a great opportunity,” Dr. Koehler said. “EXCITE gives teachers an accurate perspective of career opportunities and skills needed in the workforce, facilitates school to business relationships that lead to school-based educational programming and empowers teachers to help their students pursue a path that suits their skills and interest.” Sound familiar?

When seven educators spent the day at Stillwater Modern Dentistry, Dr. Koehler and her team used that time to build relationships by helping them understand the day-to-day in their practice. Each team member shared their journey into the dental field and went into detail about the Mouth-Body Connection®, explaining the benefits of saliva screening.

But for Dr. Koehler it’s much more than participating in a community program. It’s about creating new relationships and developing existing ones. In her words, it’s about inspiring the next generation and keeping her team engaged in the spirit of generosity and a culture of service.

Krista Koehler, DDS (fifth from the left), the team from Stillwater Modern Dentistry and visiting local educators from the Exploring Careers Through Industry Externships (EXCITE) program, a summer teacher externship program.

“This is the legacy I am dedicated to creating,” she said. “I once heard you have to live out the legacy you wish to leave and our team is doing that every day by pouring that dedication into our community.”

Dr. Koehler remains appreciative of Barry Cole, DDS, in her hometown in central Wisconsin for giving her the opportunity to explore a career in dentistry. The two still keep in touch. In fact, he recently attended her wedding where he provided homebrewed beer at the event. “People like Dr. Cole are important to have in your life because they help nurture your growth and development.”

Dr. Koehler and her team have learned that their stories will continue to be written especially as healthcare professionals. By remaining closely involved in their community, it’s guaranteed their legacy will carry on.

When the teacher becomes the patient.

Dr. Barry Cole pictured with Dr. Krista Koehler after she fitted him with a crown.

Celebrating Extraordinary Performance

We Believe 5 states that, “Quality performance at every job, every day, every hour is required,” and PDS Health’s recognition programs are our way of thanking everyone for their incredible dedication to delivering extraordinary performance.

Every year, top performers from across the organization are invited to attend the President’s Club, Pinnacle Club and OM Champion’s Club and rewarded with a company-sponsored trip to a beautiful destination location. We strive to provide a five-star experience and allow time for pampering, relaxation and collaboration with each other. Each recipient may bring one guest to attend.

What are the Incentive Clubs?

President’s Club

Hosted by Founder and CEO Steve Thorne, this is awarded to top-performing dentists (owner, associate, pediatric and specialists) and regional partners nominated for Region of the Year during the previous year.

Details of categories and qualifications are outlined in the Rewards & Recognition Program on the PDSConnect intranet under Departments > Events and Travel > Recognition Programs. Incentive Club rankings are announced quarterly beginning in April and updated monthly on your MY Job pages on the intranet throughout the year.

This year, more than 336 hardworking extraordinary performers and their spouses/guests were invited to relax with fellow team members at the President’s Club trip in Cabo San Lucas, the Pinnacle Club trip in the Bahamas and the OM Champion’s Club in San Diego. This was the inaugural year expanding the Pinnacle Club through the rewards and recognition program to include five hygienists for extraordinary performance in periodontal health. In between rest and relaxation at President’s Club, the topics of providing patient-centric care and mentorship came up often between clinicians. As they celebrated one another, many reflected over the true meanings of leadership and shared what they enjoyed most about their experiences.

Pinnacle Club

Awarded to the:

• Top seven regional managers and directors in two categories based on top NOI percent and highest percent over budgeted NOI dollars. They must also manage six or more offices for the entire year to qualify for participation.

• Top five producing hygienists with minimum 215 productions days and 65 percent SRP retention.

• Three regional support team members selected by the executive team. They must manage six or more offices for the entire year.

• Support Department of the Year — VP or director

• Runner-up Support Department of the Year — VP or director

• Three directors or vice presidents selected by the executive team

OM Champion’s Club

There are five categories of the OM Champion’s Club.

The criteria is as follows:

• Top 36 in category 4+ years

• Top 13 in category 2-4 years

• Top 13 in category 0-2 years

• Top 5 in pediatric dentistry

• Top 5 in NOI dollars

• 3 senior managers from national support centers selected by the executive team

“President’s Club was a oncein-a-lifetime experience. It was amazing to reconnect and spend time with folks we rarely ever see, as well as make new connections with like-minded, driven individuals. Couldn’t have been a better weekend!”

– Zachary Parker, Owner Dentist, Forney Modern Dentistry and Orthodontics (Office 716)

“Pinnacle Club is something I strive hard to achieve each year. The luxurious experience provides a perfect balance of relaxation and the opportunity to network with high-performing peers. It’s an inspiring event that fuels me both personally and professionally.”

– Erica Stapleton, Regional Manager, South Inland Empire Region

“Thank you so much, PDS Health! This was an amazing trip. My husband and I have been married 30 years and we have never gone on vacation without kids. I am grateful for all PDS Health does for its team members!”

– Daisy LaCour, Senior Manager, Leave, People Services

2025 Incentive Club Trips

President’s Club

May 15-18, 2025

Chileno Bay, an Auberge Resort, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Pinnacle Club

July 10-13, 2025

Montage Los Cabos, Cabo San Lucas

OM Champion’s Club

Sept. 18-21, 2025

Pasea Hotel and Spa,

Huntington Beach, Calif.

CAROLYN GHAZAL, DDS Chair, GP Platform Development

ChangingLives

We Believe we have the obligation and the opportunity to provide the best clinical care possible to every patient. Therefore, we understand what great health care is, so we educate patients of their current personal health and provide the opportunity for them to take the necessary steps to live a healthier, happier and longer life.

Every day, PDS Health dentists continue to exemplify this We Believe when providing quality dentistry to every patient who comes into their office. All patients deserve to receive the treatment they need and want. While these stories highlight just a few of the many offices that have made an impact in patients’ lives, they continue to show how important PDS Health’s leading-edge technology can make a difference in improving a patient’s quality of life.

Shadow Mountain Dental Group (Office 169), North Las Vegas Region

This past summer, the team at Shadow Mountain Dental Group treated a 16-year-old patient who initially came in for a routine exam. During the exam, he shared he had been experiencing slight discomfort on the lower side which he thought might have been coming from his wisdom tooth. After reviewing the patient’s pano and X-rays, Owner Dentist Ali Shahrestani, DMD, noticed a large radiolucency on the lower left side mandible and ordered a CBCT to see the lesion in more detail.

“My initial deferential diagnosis was odontogenic keratocyst, ameloblastoma or glandular cyst, so I referred the patient to an oral surgeon who decided to remove all the wisdom teeth and explore the radiolucency once he removed tooth #17,” said Dr. Shahrestani. “After the tooth was removed, the area was explored and it was determined that the radiolucency was just airspace. No further treatment was necessary.”

What makes this case unique is that CBCT’s powerful technology gives clinicians a clearer view of what may be going on in a patient’s mouth. It can also help give patients the peace of mind they need.

“Knowing there was no abnormality, the patient and his parents were grateful for this technology to complete the exam,” explained Dr. Shahrestani. “In reviewing this case, I’m convinced that taking a CBCT on younger patients is imperative and with the digital technology that we have today, radiation is very minimal and the benefits outweigh the risks. In my opinion we should be taking CBCT on every patient 16 years of age and older at least once a year.”

Menifee Lakes Dental Group (Office 428), South Inland Empire Region

In 2023, a patient visited Menifee Lakes Dental Group after spending the night in the hospital for facial swelling. He came in with several abscessed teeth and others that were broken, decayed and nonfunctional. Additionally, he lost many permanent teeth and spent adulthood with gaps, failing primary teeth, poor chewing ability and an uncomfortable smile.

Owner Dentist Kyle Poulsen, DDS, and his team were able to work together that same day to remove his infected teeth and discuss future options for treatment. It didn’t take much thought for the patient to decide to proceed with treatment. A few days later, he returned with his father who agreed to help cover the costs.

“We decided on upper and lower overdentures because they were affordable, easy to repair and could be modified in the future,” explained Dr. Poulsen.

(Left) CBCT image showing a detailed three-dimensional view of the patient’s mouth. (Right) The patient’s pano X-ray.

(L-R): X-rays showing the patient’s mouth before and after receiving dental implants in preparation for his overdentures.

Inspiring stories of early detection and improved patient outcomes through clinical excellence and leading-edge technology resulting in healthier, happier patients.

Port Orange Modern Dentistry (Office 961), Central Florida Region

At PDS Health, our dentists understand that dental implants are a single-tooth solution to a singletooth problem, but for a patient they’re a game changer that improves their quality of life. “We provided his final overdentures not long after and he was thrilled,” said Dr. Poulsen.

“He came back a few days later with a sore spot, which he attributed to eating a large steak right away. Although he’s still adjusting to his new teeth, the implants have made a significant difference in his life and we’re grateful to have been part of his journey.”

Another example of how technology in PDS Health practices continues to provide positive patient outcomes is from Port Orange Modern Dentistry. In June of this year, a CCX patient came into the office for a scheduled periodontal maintenance visit with Registered Dental Hygienist Jaclyn Schmidt.

During the exam, she performed a VELscope screening where she identified a suspicious lesion on the back of his tongue. Concerned, Jaclyn and another clinician recommended that the patient follow up with an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist as soon as possible. Later that month, the patient returned to the office to share that he recently had oral surgery to remove the lesion from his tongue which was confirmed to be cancerous.

“He said that the cancer was caught in its earliest stages and it wasn’t really visible to the naked eye nor did it cause him any pain,” said Operations Manager Chelsea Ullyot. “He also mentioned that he did notice a very small, painless bump but because it didn’t bother him, he didn’t think anything of it until Jaclyn screened him and stated her concerns. He’s thankful to Jaclyn and for the technology we have in office to be able to catch something like this.”

Had it not been for the diligence of the hygienist and the advanced technology of VELscope, the patient would have continued to ignore the lesion and the long-term effects could have been detrimental. Fortunately, the patient acted right away and did not need reconstructive surgery or experience any long-term side effects.

If you have an inspiring, impactful patient story you would like to share in a future communication, please contact your regional marketing specialist or regional manager.

Registered Dental Hygienist Jaclyn Schmidt.

DANIELLE ECKLUND Sr. Director, Specialty Partnerships

Working together towards greatness

Professional development, the will to succeed and mentorship are familiar stories shared by PDS Health team members. Many come from different backgrounds, but we share a common thread: The aspiration to work hard to achieve our full potential.

Periodontist Ana Bujila, DDS, and PDS Health’s first Specialty DSO Owner Dentist Zulema Valdivia, DDS, share almost identical stories. Both immigrated to the United States to pursue careers in dentistry and completed dental school twice (once in their home countries and the second in the United States) and they are passionate about serving their communities. Together, they serve the South and Central Florida regions. Dr. Valdivia also supports a large majority of the Georgia and Carolina markets.

Originally from Serbia, Dr. Bujila knew that hard work and excelling in academics was the only way she could obtain a higher education. “I was able to receive government-funded tuition thanks to my grades and passing tests, which allowed me to explore general dentistry,” she explained. “When I moved to the United States, I was aware that practicing as a dentist wouldn’t be immediately possible, but I was excited for the opportunity to be an assistant.”

When Dr. Bujila began with PDS Health, she was a specialty dental assistant working chairside with Dr. Valdivia who encouraged her to use her foreign dental degree to go back to school and become a hygienist. Once the opportunity to move on from hygiene into an American dental school and periodontics residency presented itself, the decision came easily.

“Periodontics wasn’t a focus in Serbia, but I enjoyed assisting Dr. Valdivia and admired how skillful she was during surgery. I wanted to follow in her footsteps.”

Dr. Bujila graduated at the top of her class in periodontics from the University of California, Los Angeles. She has since returned to work alongside her mentor as part of Periodontics Health Group. “She really believed in me,” said Dr. Bujila. “I’m so grateful for her help and advice. Dr. Valdivia taught me everything I know about perio. Now when I speak with patients, they’ll hear the same language, care and expertise I learned from her.”

Creating healthier, happier patients together, Ana Bujila, DDS, Periodontics Specialist and Specialty DSO Owner Dentist Zulema Valdivia, DDS.

Dr. Bujila (in the red shirt) as a child with her siblings at their home in Serbia.

“I’m so proud of her,” Dr. Valdivia said. She recalled how happy Dr. Bujila was when she began assisting her throughout the Central and South Florida regions and learning about periodontics. “Her eyes would light up every time she assisted me during surgery,” Dr. Valdivia explained. “It’s been remarkable to see her journey as my first assistant to a hygienist and now as a periodontist with PDS Health, and how it’s translating to her early success seeing her own patients.”

Dr. Valdivia’s story closely mirrors Dr. Bujila’s. Born in Cuba, she and her family migrated to the Dominican Republic where she attended dental school and studied periodontics (and quickly learned English) at Loma Linda University in California. “Before PDS Health, I worked as a general dentist at a private practice but wanted to practice periodontics because of my love for service and helping patients. Once I learned more about surgery, I knew I found my calling.”

Drs. Bujila and Valdivia are just two of the many inspirational stories that give us a glimpse of what can happen if we continue to strive towards greatness. Having a good mentor is key, and with the right guidance more team members will continue to grow and develop important leadership skills which will create new generations of healthcare leaders.

Zulema Valdivia, DDS, during graduation day from Loma Linda University in California.

Ana Bujila, DDS, Periodontics Specialist and graduate of the University of California, Los Angeles.

Dr. Valdivia as a child at her home in Cuba.

BREAK BARRIERS

Alina Cepernich

Regional Manager, Central Valley/Bay Area Region

For Alina Cepernich, service has been a part of her life since college. She began working with children with special needs at United Cerebral Palsy and developed a connection with them and their families.

What came first at PDS Health – service or team members committed to serve? Founder and CEO Steve Thorne put service at the heart of the company 30 years ago and it is threaded through all that we do today. While this commitment is palpable, it’s the team members who bring it to life.

Thousands of PDS Health members have created a culture of service in offices and departments across the country - here are just a few of their stories.

As she expanded her career in oral health care, Alina happened to work for dentists who always made an effort to treat patients with special needs.

When she learned about PDS Foundation’s commitment to making care more accessible for people with special needs, Alina was inspired to act. This is her second year helping plan and organize Swing for Special Needs, an annual PDS Foundation fundraiser to raise money for the PDS Foundation’s special needs dentistry program.

This year, the PDS Foundation partnered with the University of the Pacific to host a golf tournament at Chardonnay Golf Club in Napa Valley, California. The event exceeded its fundraising goals and Alina helped secure key sponsorships, even organizing a helicopter ball drop over the course.

“Service is important to me because it is an opportunity to lend support to communities that may otherwise be unafforded the privilege to have healthy smiles and basic dental care on a regular basis,” she said. “Everyone should be able to live confident, happy lives and when there is a barrier preventing that for patients with special needs or financial limitations, it is extremely rewarding to serve them.”

Danny Bickel Operations Manager, Dentists of Stone Oak and Orthodontics (Office 789)

From the day he interviewed for his position as operations manager, Danny Bickel has felt a connection to PDS Health because of the powerful We Believes framework. For him, the clear articulation of the company’s values — with service at the heart — sealed the deal. He is inspired by the way that Founder and CEO Steve Thorne lives the values daily and encourages the entire PDS Health community to do the same, giving team members eight hours of paid volunteer time each year.

Since joining PDS Health, Danny — alongside Regional Manager Rob Luckado, Owner Dentist Taj Ibrik, DDS, and Regional Marketing Manager Dawn Kjeldsen — has made a lasting impact on the culture of service in the Gulf Coast Region. Danny has helped launch several partnerships with local food banks and other community organizations, including Angel Tree and Morgan’s Wonderland, a family theme park designed for people with special needs and disabilities.

But it was something one of his daughters asked him that led him to do more. While in nursing rotation, she toured a local organization called Haven for Hope that provides dental, medical and vision care, as well as job training, low-cost housing and other support programs for homeless families in San Antonio. After seeing the work the organization did for the community, she told her dad that they needed his help and asked what PDS Health could do.

After touring Haven for Hope and seeing the comprehensive care and close connection with the residents, Danny and the team formed a partnership that has evolved into a monthly service activity.

The biggest hurdle in Danny’s effort was time. The teams are busy — often pressed to meet patient demand and fulfill office operations — and the idea of spending precious time out of the office made many nervous or skeptical that the project would be sustainable.

Luckily, Danny, with the help of Dr. Ibrik, coaxed team members out of the exam room, and the results have been transformational.

The team has multiple stories like this that illustrate that once the team gets a taste of service, they are deeply moved.

“They are so in their element. Service reminds them why they pursued dentistry,” said Danny. “One owner dentist had an important meeting that conflicted with our day of service and he moved it — that’s how valuable he finds the service activities, and it’s a testament to their value.”

For Danny’s team and the surrounding offices in the Gulf Coast region, the regular events with Haven for Hope and others have led to stronger team connections and improved output. The concern at first was time and availability, but he emphasizes that it’s only helped them perform better.

“This is not a distraction from our work, it enhances it,” Danny said. “When you bring service into your daily life it makes everything better. I’m so grateful to be part of something special and to watch others feel the same way, to hear them say how good it makes them feel. This changes how we operate every day.”

This fall, seven Gulf Coast team members participated in a service trip to the PDS Foundation’s Clínica Dental in Xenacoj, Guatemala. And on Smile Generation Serve Day this year, Danny’s office provided $130,000 in donated dentistry thanks in part to oral surgeon Spencer Atkinson, DMD, who donated his time and skills.

“There are more rewarding things than monetary success,” Danny said. “This is a gift you are giving, a shared vision of helping others and it’s so cool to watch people as they engage with others, as they connect directly to serve. You see the shift — that in giving you receive so much more. We’re fostering and building a culture that celebrates this.”

Vicky Dyck Regional Partner, North West Arizona Region

For Vicky Dyck, the heart of her work lies in service to the community. Her region has achieved some impressive numbers that reflect the impact of their efforts:

• 100% participation in Smile Generation Serve Day and other service activities

• Over 50 service events hosted during her tenure

• Led the inaugural dental-medical trip to the PDS Foundation’s Clínica Dental in Xenacoj, Guatemala

“I believe that a team that serves together thrives together,” Vicky said. “We must lead by example. The beautiful thing about our industry is that we make a living by helping people.”

Vicky and her regional team host a quarterly event at St. Mary’s Food Bank in the Phoenix area where they sort and serve meals for the underserved. They also participate in the American Heart Association’s annual heart walk, hosting Katie’s Heart Walk in honor of one of their beloved team members.

“We are blessed beyond our means — the issues we’re facing, the problems we have, they are small compared to so many out there,” Vicky said. “Serving fills your heart and your soul, it makes you appreciative for what you have and reminds you that what might be little to us is so big for many.”

In her 15 years at PDS Health, Vicky has expanded the region’s service activities and participation, enthusiastically leading events and encouraging inclusivity. Being in the same state as the PDS Foundation’s Dentists for Special Needs office, Vicky has also helped increase participation in local Stroll for Special Needs fundraisers each year.

Her efforts have made her a partner in the community — she is currently in talks to serve on the board of St. Mary’s Food Bank and recently connected with PDS Foundation Executive Director Michael Le and Delta Dental of Arizona, which is exploring a clinic for special needs patients.

“Serving is good for the heart and soul — you leave service events with a full heart and an extra kick in your step,” Vicky said.

Kelley Ryals, DDS

Owner Dentist, Santa Fe Modern Dentistry (Office 566)

Serving is not new to Dr. Kelley Ryals. As a Lieutenant Colonel in the New Mexico Army National Guard, she serves her state and country and has done so for 14 years. But Dr. Ryals carries that deep commitment to serve into her community, too.

For the past 13 years, Dr. Ryals’ office has hosted two Smile Generation Serve Days — one that aligns with national efforts and one on Veterans Day in November. Demand amongst local veterans became so great that Dr. Ryals began partnering with community members to find space and transportation to accommodate all the patients.

“My community is small and Santa Fe is even smaller, and the military community in Santa Fe is even smaller than that,” Dr. Ryals said. “I see this as an opportunity — we have the resources to help people who otherwise would not be able to get care.”

This year, Dr. Ryals partnered with the PDS Foundation to host the inaugural Give Vets a Smile event. Building on the momentum she’s created, eight dentists, five hygienists, 12 dental assistants and 13 front office team members, provided essential dental care to 21 veterans.

The PDS Foundation also helped arrange mental health and workforce support at the offices while veterans waited to get care. The inaugural event provided over $73,000 in donated dental care to local veterans.

“I sit at the crossroads of care and in this unique position I see and know the need and have the ability to bring the two communities together — I’m honored that I can do it,”

Dr. Ryals said.

She also helped coordinate New Mexico Mission of Mercy, a free medical and dental clinic for residents. Hundreds without health or dental insurance or the ability to pay for treatment lined up overnight to be seen. Dr. Ryals and 900 other volunteers helped 784 patients and provided $1.1 million in donated care.

“The majority of people in New Mexico are on Medicaid and there’s simply not a lot of availability for them — this event is a lifeline,” Dr. Ryals said. “I do this because I love it and it’s so gratifying to be able to share it with my family and friends.”

Raven Rhoten Executive Assistant, Henderson Corporate Headquarters

Raven Rhoten and the team at the Henderson Support Office in Henderson, Nevada, have developed their own holiday tradition of service — adopting a local family.

For the last five years, thanks to the charity Help of Southern Nevada, Raven and team members get matched with a family in need. Typically, the families are working parents struggling to make ends meet and fulfill their children’s holiday wish list.

Raven looks for large families, often with more than ten people and gets their “Christmas list.” It includes gifts the kids have asked for from Santa Claus along with other important winter items like coats and gloves. Each team member selects one of the items from the list, but often go above and beyond — a few years ago, they bought all the kids bikes.

And they don’t stop with the kids’ list. Team members often add additional items like games, restaurant gift cards and other items that the family can enjoy together during the holidays.

“I grew up the daughter of a single mom and I saw the things she went through — it’s a lot to do on your own to make your kids happy,” said Raven. “I was a single mom myself for 10 years — I want to make sure these mothers can make all their kids’ holiday wishes come true.”

Raven says adopting a family has become a tradition the office looks forward to every year, eagerly anticipating the families’ list of items.

“Everyone gets so excited — they love taking the time to find the perfect gift and we all get together to wrap them up in Santa bags,” she said. “I hope it’s a tradition that will continue to grow in the office.

PDS Health Congratulates New Owner Dentists

The Irvine Support Center welcomed new owner dentists Oct. 4-5 for two days of clinical and operational development and collaboration.

In October, PDS Health welcomed 51 new owner dentists (OD) and six regional partners for the New Owner Orientation held at the Irvine Support Center. Carolyn Ghazal, DDS, Chair of GP Platform Development, the GP Platform team along with key subject matter experts led and facilitated the meeting.

The energy in PDS Health University was unmistakable. The ODs were engaged and happy to share their excitement learning the standards of the platform and sharing their best practices in execution. This was a key step in the development of clinical leaders as it will enable them to support their teams in clinical excellence.

Day one of the two-day event began with a quick welcome and an overview of the day’s agenda by Dr. Ghazal before Chief Financial Officer Taylor Hawes went over the fundamentals of finance.

“I’m excited to learn how to lead a team efficiently and effectively,” said Conor Jacobson, DDS. When asked what he was looking forward to learning over the next two days, he explained he wanted to learn how to run a successful practice where everyone looks forward to coming to work.

“The financial side is valuable, but more importantly, you want to see the people you work with are happy and content,” he said.

After the break, the ODs were virtually greeted by PDS Health Founder and CEO Steve Thorne who gave an inspiring talk on what it meant to be extraordinary, focusing on the importance of clinical leadership and its aspects on OD development. The clinicians were engaged and asked a series of questions about PDS Health’s future in dentistry and leadership in the industry.

Afterwards, Drs. Ghazal and Alex Sharifian, DDS, MS, Chair of Owner Dentist Development discussed how to

leverage clinical culture to align with the clinical team and drive performance of the practice. Later in the day, Diana Do-Yabut, DMD, spoke on the importance of assessing and onboarding associate dentists (AD) to ensure long-term success.

As the first participant of the OD Development Center, George Ibrahim, DMD, agrees that AD onboarding is critical to the success of a practice.

“I hope to continue developing and ramping up new ADs. I personally want to see them become successful,” said Dr. Ibrahim. When asked what he was hoping to take away from the event, he admitted he was taking copious notes on everything.

“I hope to achieve a greater understanding of the economics of dentistry, knowing which levers to pull as you are running a dental office and how to leverage your team,” he said. “ Ultimately, you want your team members and associates to be on the same page so that the office and everyone in it is successful.”

Director of Tax Jim Wilde closed out the first day with a presentation on tax planning for the new owner dentist. Later that evening, the clinicians enjoyed dinner and social time with the presenters, members of the National Clinical Council and the regional clinical partners.

The following day, Dr. Ghazal began with a recap of the previous day’s key takeaways and framing the day’s agenda. PDS Health subject matter expert for the Mouth-Body Connection® (MBC) Deepika Dhama, DDS, discussed using the MBC to grow their practices. Afterwards, she spoke on the importance of integrating specialties into their practices to support comprehensive care. Dave Bryant, VP of Operations Support, closed the day with a presentation focused on improving financial acumen to increase profits.

The next new owner dentist orientation will take place May 3-4, 2025.

During the break, Conor Jacobson, DDS, owner dentist of Downtown Long Beach Dentistry (Office 1157), a de novo office that will be opening in early 2025 shared he was looking forward to cultivating a strong culture in his practice.

PDS Health Founder and CEO Steve Thorne

Diana Do-Yabut, DMD, and George Ibrahim, DMD

Carolyn Ghazal, DDS, and Alex Sharifian, DDS

Director of Tax Jim Wilde

CFO Taylor Hawes

Meet the PDS Health

Family

The work we do both in and outside of our supported practices and support centers is what helps provide purpose, meaning and harmony in work and life. The common threads that connect us all are the human elements and stories shared that create our unique company culture.

Here are a few stories to help you get to know your fellow team members and clinicians on a personal level. Who we hire says a lot about who PDS Health is as an organization. And we are so happy you chose PDS Health — you make us smile.

If you would like to be featured in the next issue of PDS Life, please submit your story idea to PDSConnect@pacden.com.

From Frozen Lakes to Lasting Passion

Jolynn Dey

Lead Registered Dental Assistant

Blaine Dentistry (Office 870) // Minnesota Region

Employed at PDS Health: 8 years

Jolynn “Jojo” Dey’s story begins not in an arena, but on a frozen lake, where the biting Minnesota cold and the glow of her dad’s van headlights formed her first rink. Inspired by her sister, she initially tried figure skating, but the toe picks and graceful moves just didn’t click. At 10-years-old, she traded figure skates for hockey gear — a game that would soon become her lifelong passion.

Standing at just 5’1”, she plays center with the kind of tenacity and speed that can’t be measured by height alone. Originally a defense player, she transitioned to center at age 12 and embraced her role as the “little speed demon” on the team. One of her proudest moments came during her U12 season, where she scored an incredible 56 goals, helping her team dominate every match they played. “We creamed every team — we were so good,” she recalls.

Hockey is woven into every part of Jolynn’s life. She still competes today, often in co-ed leagues, where she plays alongside and against a diverse group of players, including colleagues like her office’s oral surgeon.

“For me, hockey is where I let everything go,” she says. “It’s where nothing else matters except the next goal.” Whether on an outdoor rink as a kid or at a tournament across the country today, Jolynn finds joy and freedom in every stride, proving that true passion never fades.

Cooking Up Tradition with a Side of Grit

Cynthia Viera-Galarza

Specialty Healthcare Coordinator

Brentwood Smiles Dentistry (Office 209)

Central Valley/Bay Area Region

Employed at PDS Health: 2.5 years

When life gave Cynthia Viera-Galarza a challenge, she responded with a ladle, a pot and a heart full of tradition. Faced with sudden uncertainty during the pandemic, Cynthia, a single mom of two, turned her love for cooking into a lifeline, transforming her mother’s recipes into a thriving catering business— Vasito Marisquero Kima. Seafood became her canvas, and resilience her recipe.

From shrimp cocktails to creative spins on classic dishes like aguachiles, her cooking is a celebration of Mexican heritage, bold flavors and love for community. Her most popular creation? A 32-ounce michelada topped with a fresh ceviche—both snack and refreshment, brimming with color and creativity.

While balancing her role at PDS Health, she has kept her passion simmering, her dream to one day open a restaurant featuring her mother’s cherished recipes. Through every dish, she honors her culture, her family and her journey.

Reflecting on her journey, she shares her proudest moment, “Taking my kids on a dream vacation to Cancun.” Her story is not just about food but also about perseverance, courage and the belief that anything is possible. “Don’t be afraid to try new things and pursue your dreams despite the challenges.”

Follow Vasito Marisquero Kima on Facebook and Instagram (@vasitomarisquero_kima

Bold Notes and Big Dreams

Julianne West

Operations Manager

Tacoma Smiles Dentistry (Office 381) // Washington Region

Employed at PDS Health: 2 years, 4 months

Julianne West knows how to make an impact, whether she’s at the office or holding a microphone. Her days at PDS Health are balanced by evenings spent sharing her love for music — a passion that’s shaped her life and the lives of her students.

Her journey from fifth-grade clarinetist to operatic soprano has been a crescendo of passion and determination. “Opera isn’t for the timid,” she says with a smile. “It’s an excuse to be as dramatic as possible.” That bold spirit is now channeled into Kid Rocker, a non-traditional music program where students pick their own songs and learn through creativity, not conformity. For her, it’s about sparking joy — not drilling scales.

Balancing her role at PDS Health with her musical pursuits, Julianne dreams of transforming the public school arts program. She believes in the transformative power of arts education. But it’s not just about academic success, she sees music as a tool for personal growth, helping students manage anxiety and become confident public speakers. Her own journey from performing the national anthem in front of 3,500 people to excelling in professional interactions is a testament to this belief.

“Everyone has a voice worth sharing,” she insists.

Her mission is clear: To create a world where every student has the opportunity to discover their musical potential.

To learn more or to donate to Kid Rocker, visit kidrocker.org.

Strings, Smiles and Bluegrass

Curtis Benson, DMD

Owner Dentist

Emerald Smiles Dentistry (Office 1058) // Idaho Region

Employed at PDS Health: 10 years, 5 months

As the owner dentist of Emerald Smiles Dentistry in Boise, Idaho, Dr. Curtis Benson has built a thriving career in dental care. His journey with PDS Health spans a decade starting in Colorado before relocating to Idaho to be closer to family.

But when he isn’t examining teeth or managing his expanding dental practices, he’s strumming his guitar, an instrument he’s played since age 14. Initially, his journey began with heavier music like Nirvana and Rage Against the Machine.

His love for bluegrass music started when he began dating his wife, Gail, a fiddle player since the age of two. She introduced him to bluegrass, and he became “moderately obsessed” with the genre. Their musical journey together has created a family band that’s truly special with Dr. Benson on guitar, his wife on fiddle, his sister-in-law on mandolin and fiddle, and their former college roommate on bass.

Music is woven into the fabric of their lives. Dr. Benson organizes weekly bluegrass jams, plays at family gatherings and performs at festivals across the country. One particularly memorable experience was at the bluegrass festival in Pocatello, where his original band reunited, turning the event into an epic family jam session that lasted until about two in the morning.

These jam sessions are about more than music, they’re about building connections and keeping the rich tradition of bluegrass alive. With plans to play at the esteemed Stringbean Bluegrass Festival in Kentucky next June, he continues to blend his passion for bluegrass with everyday life, proving that life’s sweetest melodies often come from unexpected harmonies. Just like in life, he says, “Just keep going — it’ll all work out.”

A Passion for Decor Turned Business Success

Patrick Connely

Regional Recruiter // Midwest Region

Employed at PDS Health: 9 years

In the heart of Kansas City, a lifelong love for interior design has blossomed into Dekcor, also known as “Decor Kansas City.” Patrick Connely’s journey from passionate decorator to successful entrepreneur is a testament to the power of pursuing one’s interests.

The spark for Dekcor ignited during a Holiday Boutique in Kansas City, where overwhelming positive reception and inquiries about a brick-and-mortar store revealed a promising market opportunity. What began as rearranging furniture at home soon expanded to decorating for friends and family during holidays, eventually attracting a growing client base through word-of-mouth referrals.

“When I received my first client inquiry from a complete stranger, I knew this had transitioned from a hobby to a business”

—Patrick Connely

He recalls a pivotal moment: “When I received my first client inquiry from a complete stranger, I knew this had transitioned from a hobby to a business.”

Running Dekcor is no small feat, especially while balancing his full-time job at PDS Health. Evenings are often spent tagging products, a task that has become a family affair. Weekends are dedicated to refreshing his spaces at Painted Tree Boutiques and preparing for upcoming events like Holiday Boutiques in Kansas City and Omaha, as well as the Home and Remodel Show.

The most rewarding aspects of running Dekcor are the small victories: A new Instagram follower, or the joy he sees when a client sees their redesigned space or holiday décor for the first time.

As Dekcor continues to grow, it demonstrates the power of pursuing one’s passion and the rewards that come from turning a hobby into a successful business venture.

Follow Dekcor on Instagram @dekcorkc

A Real-Life Fairytale

Laura McHenry

Revenue Operations Coordinator // Irvine Support Center

Employed at PDS Health: 1 year

Laura McHenry’s life has been nothing short of a fairytale. Currently serving as the revenue operations coordinator at PDS Health, Laura’s journey began with a magical twist that would make even Cinderella proud.

Growing up in Orange County, Laura was a self-proclaimed “Disney kid,” frequenting Disneyland and harboring a special love for Cinderella (see childhood photo above of Laura dressed as Cinderella from her early beginnings). Little did she know that her childhood fascination would bloom into a decade-long career as the very princess she adored.

In August 2014, encouraged by a friend, Laura attended an open audition at Disney. Initially cast as Elsa from Frozen, she soon stepped into the glass slippers of her beloved Cinderella in early 2015. The transition felt like destiny, especially considering that Laura had been mesmerized by a Cinderella character at her own fifth birthday party years before.

Laura’s typical day as Cinderella involves alternating between sets at the castle and around the park, engaging in meetand-greets, storytelling and autograph sessions. Her favorite tale to share involves the heart-shaped detail on Cinderella’s iconic glass slippers, a story that allows her creativity to shine.

This magical journey has not only fulfilled Laura’s childhood dreams but also equipped her with invaluable skills. The ability to think quickly on her feet, create memorable experiences and connect with people has seamlessly translated into her role at PDS Health.

After 10 years, Laura’s most thankful for the joy of making children’s dreams come true and the lasting impact of these magical moments. Her story serves as a reminder that with a little faith, trust and pixie dust, dreams really do come true.

From Youth League to League Champion

Shayna Dewolf

Operations Manager

Maple Grove Smiles Dentistry (Office 877)

Minnesota Region

Employed at PDS Health: 1 year

In the thunderous world of competitive bowling, Shayna Dewolf stands out. Her journey from an 8-year-old straight bowler to a fierce competitor with a two-handed curve who can “whoop” her husband and place in state tournaments is inspiring.

Shayna’s passion for bowling is deeply rooted. With relatives known in competitive bowling circles, it was natural for her to pick up the sport. What started as a youth league activity quickly became a lifelong pursuit.

Her love for bowling took an unexpected turn when it became a cornerstone of her relationship with her nowhusband. Their date nights at the bowling alley evolved into a fierce competition. The couple’s dedication caught the eye of seasoned bowlers, leading to an invitation to join a competitive team. Since joining, Shayna has achieved a personal best of 257 contributing to her team’s recent landslide victory, and her husband has bowled a perfect 300.

Competing on a predominantly male team, Shayna thrives on breaking stereotypes. “It’s really funny for me to greet other teams and they’re surprised to see me throwing a 15-pound ball at 14 miles an hour, scoring over 200 per game,” she says with pride.

Beyond the lanes, Shayna finds that bowling complements her professional life at PDS Health. The energy and positive attitude she brings to her office mirror her approach to bowling nights, creating a winning culture in both arenas.

For Shayna, bowling is more than just a sport. With each strike, she’s not just knocking down pins; she’s shattering expectations and inspiring others to find their passion.

Balancing Beads and Business

Melissa Ledet

Regional Manager // Louisiana Region

Employed at PDS Health: 8 years

For Melissa Ledet, Mardi Gras isn’t just a colorful parade — it’s a way of life. With 15 years as part of a Mardi Gras Krewe, Melissa has mastered the art of balancing professional success with vibrant community involvement.

As a member of the Krewe of Aquarius, Melissa experiences the thrill of riding floats, tossing beads and spreading joy during the annual Mardi Gras celebration. “There’s something exhilarating about it,” she says, describing the 20-hour parade days that start at dawn and end in the wee hours of the morning.

For Melissa, being part of a Krewe means more than just the parade. It’s about year-round community service, from back-to-school drives to park clean-ups. This commitment to giving back aligns perfectly with her professional ethos at PDS Health.

The skills Melissa has honed through her Krewe involvement translate seamlessly to her role as a Regional Manager. “Working with different types of people, ages, and belief systems, and coming together for a common cause has been something I’ve learned that I apply at my job,” she explains.

As a mother of two young children, Melissa is passionate about passing down the Mardi Gras tradition. “I want to share the joy of Mardi Gras with my children,” she says, embodying the family-oriented nature of the celebration.

Melissa’s story highlights how community involvement can enrich both personal and professional life. At PDS Health, she brings the same energy and commitment that make Mardi Gras a beloved tradition in Louisiana.

National Dental Hygiene Month

In October, PDS Health celebrated National Dental Hygiene Month (NDHM). Dental hygienists play an integral role in the early detection and treatment of periodontal pathogens, inflammation control and long-term disease management. Many times, it is the hygienist who first helps educate patients about the importance of blood pressure control, oral cancer screenings and risks associated with sleep apnea. Beyond this important work, hygienists also serve as a source of comfort for anxious patients and a friend at the chairside. In recognition of NDHM, we honored our dental hygienists across the country on social media and through celebratory recognitions and treats. Congratulations to Fort Worth 3 (Office 736), Metairie 2 (Office 687) and McKinney 3 (Office 1085) for performing the most OralDNA tests in October as part of the NDHM contest. While October may be the dedicated month to honor this critical role, it’s the work they do year-round to create Healthier, Happier Patients® that is the real accomplishment. You make us smile.

a. Lady Lake Smiles Dentistry (Office 942)

b. Crossroads Dental Group (Office 111)

c. Woods Dental Group and Orthodontics (Office 643)

d. Dentists of Lake Charles (Office 690)

e. Albuquerque Modern Dentistry (Office 561)

f. Forney Modern Dentistry and Orthodontics (Office 716)

g. South Corona Dental Group (Office 73)

h. Northwest Reno Smiles Dental Group (Office 194)

i. Longmont Modern Dentistry and Orthodontics (Office 531)

j. East Murrieta Dental Group and Orthodontics (Office 41)

k. White Bear Dentists (Office 881)

l. Shrewsbury Dentistry (Office 939)

m. Platt Village Dental Group and Orthodontics (Office 136)

n. South Kendall Dentistry (Office 970)

o. Cave Creek Dentistry (Office 294)

p. Mission Gorge Modern Dentistry (Office 1036)

q. Monument Dentists and Orthodontics (Office 554)

r. Clarksville Modern Dentistry (Office 846)

s. Henderson Dental Group (Office 187)

t. Ballard Modern Dentistry (Office 359)

In August, team members across the country joined forces to make a lasting impact in their communities for the 14th Annual Smile Generation Serve Day. Together, we provided more than $16.5 million in donated dentistry and volunteered more than 87,000 hours through partnerships with After Innocence, Empowered Network, Hire Heroes USA, Project 150, Special Olympics and The Boyce L. Ansley School, among others. Whether you changed someone’s life by giving them a new smile, donated blood, packaged food boxes or worked to keep our parks and beaches beautiful, thank you for the tremendous impact you made in your communities. Next year we will celebrate the 15th annual Smile Generation Serve Day. Save the date for Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025.

a. Lone Tree Dentists (Office 511)

b. Dentist of White Rock (Office 744)

c. Bulverde Dentistry and Orthodontics (Office 774)

d. Eagle Pointe Dentists and Orthodontics (Office 563)

e. PDS Foundation Dentists for Special Needs (Office 389)

f. The Vintage Modern Dentistry (Office 1163)

g. Raymond Tucker, DDS, Pediatric Owner Dentist, Union Village Kids’ Dentistry and Orthodontics (Office 7324)

h. Dentists of West Columbia (Office 977)

i. Monument Dentists and Orthodontics (Office 554)

j. Robert Petersen, a 75-year old retiree from Mission Viejo, struggled to chew properly and had lost confidence in his smile. The team at Dentists of Laguna Hills (Office 1046) stepped in to help, providing him with a full set of new dentures. Thanks to their donated services and the generosity of JU Genesis Lab, which supplied the dentures at no cost, Mr. Petersen can now eat comfortably and smile with pride.

k. Dentists of Rowlett (Office 743)

l. Dave James, owner of Factory Records in Costa Mesa, California, had been sober for two decades. However, the lingering effects of his past addiction were evident in his deteriorating oral health. Orange Village Dentistry (Office 413) stepped in and provided nearly $27,000 in donated services to restore his smile.

m. The Dental Office of Prosper and Orthodontics (Office 702)

n. Fontainebleau Dentistry (Office 994)

o. Dentists of Nona (Office 885)

p. Shawnee Modern Dentistry (Office 843)

q. Dentists at Hyde Park Plaza (Office 770)

r. Brentwood Modern Dentistry (Office 343)

Regional Close-Ups

CENTRAL FLORIDA REGION

a. Riverview Modern Dentistry (Office 908)

EASTERN ARIZONA REGION

b. Dentists of Paradise Valley (Office 481)

GULF COAST REGION

c. Magnolia Modern Dentistry (Office 1160)

IDAHO / UTAH REGION

d. Salt Lake Modern Dentistry (Office 588)

MIDWEST REGION

e. Liberty Oaks My Kid’s Dentistry and Orthodontics (Office 837)

MINNESOTA REGION

f. Regional team outing to iFly.

g. Dentists of Eden Prairie (Office 882)

NEW MEXICO / CENTRAL COLORADO REGION

h. Falcon Park Dental Group (Office 517)

i. RBOM Garcia Jessica and the New Mexico LDAs were locked in and engaged at their Q3 Lead Meeting

NORTH DALLAS FORT / WORTH REGION

j. Dentists of Midlothian and Orthodontics (Office 740)

NORTH INLAND EMPIRE REGION

k. My Kid’s Dentist and Orthodontics (Office 7264)

l. Eastvale Smiles Dentistry (Office 448)

NORTH LOS ANGELES REGION

m. Camarillo Dental Group (Office 24)

NORTH WEST ARIZONA REGION

n. Promenade Dental Group and Orthodontics (Office 121)

CENTRAL VALLEY / BAY AREA REGION

o. Brentwood Smiles Dentistry and Orthodontics (Office 209)

NORTHERN COLORADO REGION

p. Parker Modern Dentistry and Orthodontics (Office 543)

q. My Kids Dentistry and Orthodontics (Office 7516)

Regional Close-Ups,

ORANGE COUNTY REGION

a. Whittier Modern Dentistry (Office 408)

SAN DIEGO REGION

b. Camino Dental Group (Office 133)

SOUTH DALLAS / FORT WORTH REGION

c. Hickory Creek Dental Group and Orthodontics (Office 715)

SOUTH FLORIDA REGION

d. Fontainebleau Dentistry (Office 994)

NORTH/SOUTH LAS VEGAS REGION

e. Shadow Mountain Dental Group and Orthodontics (Office 169)

f. Union Village Modern Dentistry (Office 324)

SOUTH LOS ANGELES REGION

g. Candlewood Smiles Dentistry and Orthodontics (Office 254)

h. South Los Angeles Region team members at Stroll for Special Needs

SOUTHERN ARIZONA REGION

i. Sabino Smiles Dentistry (Office 233)

j. Cortaro Smiles Dentistry and Orthodontics (Office 256)

TENNESSEE REGION

k. Northshore Smiles Dentistry (Office 858)

VIRGINIA / MARYLAND REGION

l. Herndon Modern Dentistry (Office 761)

WASHINGTON / OREGON REGION

m. Puyallup Modern Dentistry (Office 330)

n. Tigard Triangle Smiles Dentistry and Orthodontics (Office 302)

More Than Just a Lucky Number for The Dental Office on Red Hill

This year marks a significant milestone as The Dental Office on Red Hill (Office 11) celebrates its 11th anniversary. Office 11 has transformed from an unlikely prospect into a thriving dental practice. Initially planned as a training center, the space took an unexpected turn when PDS Health decided to convert it into a fully operational dental office. Its location next to the Irvine Support Center posed a unique challenge that called for an equally unique personality – enter Nicole Smith, DDS, FAGD. Despite initial doubts about the office’s potential for success, Dr. Smith and her dedicated team have persevered. This year the office celebrated its best month in August and attained platinum status for Invisalign. Congratulations to Dr. Smith and the team at Office 11.

Fun Fact:

Dr. Nicole Smith was recently featured on two episodes of the Below Deck Sailing Yacht series hosted on Bravo TV (Season 5, Episodes 6 and 7 aired Nov. 11 and 18). In case you missed it, past episodes are now airing on Peacock TV.

kaboom! kaboom!

We believe extraordinary performance should be rewarded with the opportunity to serve. This year, PDS Health honored the Central Valley/Bay Area as the Region of the Year. This recognition comes with a special opportunity to build a playground with KABOOM!, a national nonprofit that unites with communities to build play spaces for those who disproportionally have less access to play where they learn and live. On Saturday, Sept. 21, PDS Health team members demonstrated the power of teamwork by building a playground in just one day at the Aspire Summit Charter Academy in Modesto, California. To ensure play is both accessible and inclusive, the playground features a bilingual communication board at the entrance. In addition, PDS Health donated 300 PDS Foundation Smile Kits with desensitization tools to help caregivers of individuals with sensory needs. This playground is Smile Generation’s 20th playground build in partnership with KABOOM! since 2010. With the help of dozens of PDS Health team members, this playground will serve generations of families and children to come.

Date Your Mate

The PDS Health Date Your Mate Dash Challenge winners Laura McLaughlin, lead dental assistant, and Evelyn Urquieta, specialty healthcare coordinator, connected with their spouses for a once-in-a-lifetime dream date. Read below to see how their dream dates came to Life.

Whistler Wanderlust

After 34 years of marriage, Laura McLaughin and her husband, Greg, embarked on their dream date to Whistler, British Columbia. The scenic drive set the tone for their adventure-packed getaway where they soared through glaciers on a seaplane, marveling at breathtaking views while their pilot narrated the journey. The next day brought relaxation at a thermal spa, providing a perfect balance to their activities. Between excursions, they cherished moments of connection, playing games and unwinding together. This trip to one of their favorite destinations offered a much-needed respite, allowing them to slow down and rediscover each other amidst the beauty of Whistler.

Love Rekindled

Evelyn Urquieta and her husband Arturo, who first met in 2018, recently escaped the routine of parenthood for a romantic retreat at the Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa in Palm Springs. The couple indulged in poolside relaxation, savoring charcuterie and wine against the desert backdrop.

“This getaway reminded us that if we have each other, we have everything,” Evelyn shared. The three-night stay offered a chance to reconnect amidst busy family life. Grateful for the unexpected win, the couple embraced the opportunity to focus on their relationship, rediscovering the importance of dating each other.

POWER of the PDS Health Platform

An update from a few departments that support the important work you do.

The PDS Health value proposition has always been that its platform offers unparalleled support so you can focus on providing exceptional oral health care. Below are some highlights from key departments working behind the scenes to make a difference in your daily operations.

Compliance and Ethics

PDS Health operates in one of the most regulated and protected sectors and is subject to more state and federal laws than most other industries. Despite the framework being weaved throughout the We Believes, the Compliance and Ethics Program often flies under the radar. But this important strategic cornerstone ensures PDS Health’s values are at the forefront of our culture, influencing behavior to meet not only ethical goals but also regulatory imperatives.

The department ensures offices are aligned with industry requirements and is responsible for safeguarding the personal health information and privacy of patients a critical task. Another key focus of the department is safety, which was the theme of the annual Safety and Infection Prevention Summit. PDS Health is the only dental support organization to offer a summit of this kind, an opportunity for regional back-office trainers and managers to share expertise with each other.

The summit features speakers from the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and police SWAT teams who describe how to keep teams safe in the event of a threat. The meeting helps inform the department’s own safety protocols and infection control measures at PDS Health offices so that we can create a healthier and more secure workplace for all.

“Compliance is about meeting regulatory requirements and laws as well as internal standards, but equally important is an aligned vision of rightness and values that compel you to act ethically,” said Dan Burke, Chief Enterprise Strategy Officer and General Counsel. “I am very proud of the tireless work done by our Compliance team working in concert with our clinical and operations teams to keep patients safe.”

Visit the Compliance and Ethics page on the PDSConnect intranet to find all policies and procedures related to your role.

Marketing

Traditionally, PDS Health offices saw marketing as a tool mainly for boosting patient flow, with the mindset that ‘offices with good patient flow don’t need marketing.’ However, this perspective is shifting.

“In the past, we relied heavily on paid media to drive patient flow, but our technology and strategies have evolved to offer more tailored, omni-channel solutions,” said John Pham, Sr. Director of Digital Marketing & Operations. “There’s been a mental shift, with regions and offices now recognizing the long-term value of marketing as a growth strategy, and practice owners have a deeper understanding of its role.”

Organic search and other marketing strategies have become a major focus to complement paid media efforts. Marketing has helped shift the organization’s focus towards improving Google reviews. This strategy has successfully driven a 35% year-over-year increase in patient reviews, with an average rating of 4.5 stars.

Marketing continues to explore new ways to increase brand awareness and conversions. For example, Smile Generation saw 1.5 million organic views on TikTok within a few months. We have also expanded to platforms like Audacy radio ads and Amazon streaming TV, where they can track patient foot traffic to our practices. Smile Generation marketing has scaled impressively, generating 16.9 million impressions across TikTok, Meta, and Google, resulting in 52,000 email leads within the pilot period.

“Offices are seeing Marketing as a true partner that is flexible depending on their needs,” Pham said.

Revenue Operations Center (ROC)

While not at the forefront of the delivery of care, collecting and posting payments from insurance companies is critical to an office’s success. The importance of this function, which ROC oversees, took center stage recently as cyberattacks continue to increase and threaten health care companies.

A specific cybersecurity incident earlier this year impacted a third-party vendor, who supports PDS Health in this area. The ROC team, known for its agility, quickly augmented services from alternative vendor partners to mitigate the impact to our supported offices. ROC also partnered with the field and with other departments including finance, accounting and IT, to ensure strong communication and to work collaboratively on the solution to the crisis.

“Our most critical functions are to safeguard our offices’ cash flow and secure the ability of our supported clinicians to successfully interact and care for their patients. We achieved that,” said David Swanson, Vice President of Revenue Operations.

In addition to providing end-to-end insurance billing functions that include collecting and applying payments, ROC also supports patient payment options such as patient financing and other convenient pay-over-time options like SmartPay. Knowing how vital it is to enable patients to pay for the treatment they need and want, ROC also recently launched additional lenders within our financing marketplace. ROC works with practice owners, regional partners and territory partners to help them maximize offices’ collectible revenue and ROC knows that the revenue cycle functions they oversee are vital to an office’s successful and profitable operations.

“One of the great benefits of PDS Health is that we remove the complexities of revenue cycle operations for the office. This can be a major headache but absolutely vital to their success,” Swanson said. “We strive to enable clinicians to be able to spend more time with their patients and not have to worry about backend administration or being paid by patients and insurance companies.”

Recruiting

PDS Health has always understood that it’s our team that makes us successful. By attracting the best, most skilled team members, we all benefit. This is the central role that recruiting plays helping to find and hire the right people for each role.

“We recognize that our success is driven by our people,” said Ramsey Michael, Director of National Support Recruiting. “And the recruiting team plays a key role in this by sourcing and attracting the skilled talent that most closely aligns with our culture. By focusing on both culture and skills, we ensure we’re building teams that will not only fit but excel in shaping the future success of our organization.”

“We’re looking for the right people to fit not just the role but the team,” said Darling Rojas, Senior Specialist, Recruitment Marketing. “At the end of the day it really is like matchmaking. We want to ensure the team, the role and the department have what they need to succeed.”

A growth mindset is another trait recruiters identified as important as well as passion and accountability.

“Is the candidate accountable for their actions and attitude, will they make the team better and hold others accountable? I try to find candidates that will model the We Believes and come with a hungry and humble attitude,” said Sarah Gerdes, National Support Recruiter. Recruiters lean heavily on the We Believes for culture fit, but an especially effective tool has been team member referral as Rojas said: “Great people know great people.”

This year, the recruiting team highlighted several initiatives including a referral program in which PDS Health team members receive a bonus if someone they refer is hired. In just three months, the team received 100 new referrals compared to 127 in the six months prior.

A pilot initiative was also launched to streamline the hiring process to help ensure fewer offices experienced a shortage of staff support. Lead National Support Recruiter Shane Couch worked with recruiters to reduce the time between candidate screening and offer, which has helped double hiring over the last few months.

“Strong recruitment ensures that the organization can thrive and grow with the right individuals in place to help the company weather challenges and seize new opportunities,” said Humberto Briceño, Recruiter for Field Support. “Without this solid foundation, achieving growth and stability becomes much harder.”

Preventive Care = Healthier Team Members

As PDS Health evolves, so do our health care benefits.

PDS Health’s evolution to a healthcare support organization reflects what we’ve known to be true for some time: prevention is the best medicine.

More preventive health care allows for the identification and treatment of potential health problems before they become chronic. This is critical given the chronic health conditions in America.

A report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention finds that 129 million Americans have at least one major chronic disease (diabetes, obesity, heart disease, etc.). And five of the top 10 leading causes of death in the U.S. are considered preventable and treatable chronic diseases.

As PDS Health evolves to offer integrated, preventive health care we’re following this same strategy with our benefits program. We want to support and encourage team members to take preventive action, and we’re excited to offer several new programs that encourage just that.

A New Health Care Plan

PDS Health is introducing a new health care plan geared toward team members who expect to use their insurance for preventive visits and require fewer healthcare services in general.

We have a disproportionate number of team members who are not using their health coverage at all. That means you’re paying for it, but receiving none of the benefits! Let’s change that. Just because you don’t have a condition that necessitates a doctor’s visit doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do your preventive screenings.

The new health plan is offered at a lower per paycheck cost and provides team members access to free preventive care and primary care office visits at a $30 copay. While the deductible is higher, the plan has a hospital indemnity which covers a portion of the deductible in case of a hospitalization.

MARIE FERLAND Director, Team Member Benefits

Expanding the Digestive Health Program

Digestive health is one of the most prevalent health problems amongst PDS Health team members. Earlier this year, we launched a new digital digestive health program called Ayble with a small group to test out the program’s effectiveness. The feedback we received for our first round of the digestive health program was excellent — 86% of team members saw a reduction of their symptoms. Given this positive feedback, we will be expanding the program sometime in 2025 to PDS Health-sponsored medical plan participants.

Virtual Preventive Visits

Don’t have time to go to the doctor? No problem. You can complete your annual check-up from home and right from your mobile device. Anthem LiveHealth Online now allows team members to schedule annual wellness visits virtually. This is especially valuable for those who don’t have a primary care provider or an extra busy schedule.

So, make sure to schedule your annual preventive visit, whether in-office or virtually and save your future self some money.

Personalized Preventive Health Benefit

As an integrated healthcare company, PDS Health delivers significant value to our patients in helping them reach their optimal health. We wanted our team members to experience this firsthand and as such, PDS Health rolled out a new program called the Personalized Preventive Health Benefit (PPHB) through our very own supported medical practices.

Last September, most of our team members in Arizona and Nevada, where our medical practices are located, were introduced to this free program that complements our Anthem medical plan. The PPHB program is designed to further empower team members through personalized, preventive care including customized wellness plans to support their long-term health and well-being.

The Future’s So Bright, You Gotta Wear Shades

Much the same way that our oral health care offers a snapshot of what’s going on in our body, so do our eyes. Growing research finds that early diagnosis of problems from an eye doctor can help prevent serious disease. From an eye exam, an eye doctor may be able to detect conditions like diabetes and hypertension.

We want to encourage better eye care — even if you have 20/20 vision, getting an annual eye exam is a good overall preventive health practice.

With that in mind, PDS Health is expanding the vision coverage so that you can now use your $130 frame allowance for non-prescriptive lenses such as sunglasses or blue light filtering glasses. For more information, contact VSP or one of PDS Health’s Benefits Advocates at pdsbenefits@lockton.com.

Preventive Care Will Save You Money

Over the last two decades across the country, there has been a steady increase in chronic disease like obesity and diabetes. We’re seeing the same trends at PDS Health and we want to change that. Preventive care is the answer.

We are also seeing low screening compliance for preventive care like annual exams, mammograms and other vital tests that help catch conditions before they become serious.

To encourage team members to get their annual preventive exam, we’re offering a wellness rebate. Starting in 2025, PDS Health team members who get their annual exam will receive a discount on their health care premium in 2026, when this new health plan takes effect. We’ll have more information about this program in early 2025.

PDS Health is dedicated to leading change in health care and building a healthier, happier tomorrow for all and it starts with you. We believe that maintaining your optimal health allows you to live a healthier, happier life and better serve patients, supporting their optimal health. You can do this through regular doctor visits, prioritizing proactive health care screenings or healthier lifestyle habits. We’re excited to support you on this journey and offer new programs that make it easier than ever to get preventive care so that you can protect your long-term health.

The Role Government & Legislative Affairs Plays in Our Business

The voice of team members and clinicians will be increasingly important in state capitols and Washington D.C. as PDS Health and the industry evolve.

GARY PICKARD

Sr. Director, Government & Industry Affairs

Government and Legislative Affairs might seem removed from the daily work you’re doing in support offices and practices across the country, but it’s closer than you think. The truth is regulatory mandates often have a major impact on business and on the clinical care offices provide.

COVID-19 was the perfect example of just how we’re all affected by the government. Most dental practices were forced to close during early lockdowns because they were not considered essential. PDS Health worked hard behind the scenes to fix this, strategizing with the American Dental Association (ADA) and the Association of Dental Support Organizations (ADSO) to change the designation and include dental clinicians as essential health care providers.

The bottom line is state and federal regulations, laws and statutes influence when and how care is provided.

Our goal is to help ensure that you can be successful in your role and market, regardless of the legislative or regulatory environment. As PDS Health evolves, there is a growing need for your voice to help shape the conversation about the future of oral health and its connection to overall health.

Advocating for Integrated Health Care

Dental-medical integration (DMI) is here to stay, but it still needs passionate advocates. As PDS Health builds out our platform and network to support connected care we’ll need a simultaneous effort to update our outdated healthcare system, which was not designed for coordination. The good news is that your personal experience is extremely valuable. Here are some ways that you can influence regulations and shape the future of the industry.

1. Apply to the State Dental Board

Supporting offices in 24 states means there are 24 different Dental Practice Acts for which PDS Health must understand and help ensure compliance. Which means there are 24 state dental boards that license and regulate dental providers in each state, issuing permits and making rules for administering anesthesia, approving dental education programs, and more. The goal of each state board is to ensure the enforcement of the Dental Practice Act (DPA) and to protect the public.

These boards set the rules based on the DPA and often set

policy and standard of care that influences how care is provided, which is why it’s beneficial to have PDS Health team members and supported clinicians engaged as much as possible. As a member of the dental board you represent yourself and your practice, but given your familiarity with PDS Health’s business model your insight would be invaluable and create a more representative board. As an attendee to regular meetings you can stay abreast and provide key insight. As an auditor you can help ensure fair treatment to colleagues and help protect the public.

Together, it’s an opportunity to advocate for your business and protect your patients and the public in general. By using your voice, you can create an environment that is supportive for your future, so that you are being set up to succeed.

2. Write an Op-Ed

If you can’t commit to attending a position on your state dental board, there are other ways you can make your voice heard and advocate for the industry.

Writing an op-ed or other public commentary is a great way to raise awareness and influence

decision makers. Using your platform and expertise, you can voice your opinion, advocate for a policy or piece of legislation, or educate the public about a particular issue.

For example, there are several bills addressing insurance reform that would benefit from a dentist’s insight as a provider who deals with the daily intricacies of insurance challenges. Or, in some states, dental hygienists are not permitted to use lasers despite proven to be especially effective and less invasive for patients.

The goal with an op-ed or public commentary is to get the attention of your state or federal elected representatives or their staff members. They represent you and your interests and as a member of the community – not to mention a business owner and provider who protects public health on a regular basis – you hold an important role.

3. Speak With Your Representative

The government and legislative affairs team often hosts lobby days in offices and at state capitols. We ask experts like you to speak with lawmakers, staff, policy makers either through formal hearings or simple meetings.

We’ll host similar days on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., partnering with the ADA, the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA), and the American Student Dental

Association (ASDA) and others to speak with relevant legislators about the industry.

In this setting, you can use your role again as a constituent, local business owner and oral health care expert to educate lawmakers about the value of oral health, the Mouth-Body Connection® and the role of oral health in overall health. You can also outline any challenges you might be facing in your daily practice or business operations to determine if there is support for changes that can be made.

These opportunities require just a few hours of your time, and can be a great way to speak directly to your representative.

Priority Areas

As PDS Health begins its evolution to more integrated, coordinated, connected care, we’ll need to be similarly ready to advocate for policies that help our healthcare system evolve.

While there are countless laws and regulations in each state, there are a few areas where we will be especially interested in the coming years, including:

Saliva Diagnostics – A fast, easy, less invasive way to identify serious conditions and take action before they become chronic. We want to expand insurance coverage to include tests like aMMP-8, which can identify early symptoms of diabetes and periodontal disease and allow clinicians to develop a prevention plan instead of a more costly treatment plan.

Tech/AI – New AI-powered CAD/ CAM technology can improve design, reduce fabrication time and help with clinical decision-making, which could be especially helpful for new dentists.

Medicare Expansion – The number of people over 65 is expected to increase by 47% by 2050. This wave of older adults will present a serious challenge to the healthcare system and in many cases these patients will have little to no oral healthcare coverage. PDS Health has been an early advocate to expand Medicare to cover medically necessary dental care, but greater coverage is needed knowing the pending demographic shift facing the country.

Education – Influencing what dentists, dental hygienists and dental assistants learn in school has a direct impact on their scope of practice, and helps us build a strong pipeline of optimally trained clinicians. As the industry changes, it’s vital that education keep pace and that students are prepared. Expanding education to include delegated local anesthesia or lasers for decontamination can be especially helpful for dentists allowing all oral health providers to practice at the top of their scope.

All of these will play a vital role in the future of oral health and we’ll need your help to advocate and advance these policies across the country. If you’re interested in becoming a member of your state’s dental board, writing an op-ed or getting involved in an issue that is important to you, please reach out to pickardg@pacden.com.

Anniversaries, Milestones & More

PDS Health celebrates team members every step of their career journey but especially during significant milestones along the way, including anniversaries and retirements.

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all 2024 anniversary recipients. Thank you for your hard work and commitment to PDS Health through the years. You make us smile.

Anniversary Reward & Recognition Program

30th Anniversary - Recipients will receive a $2,000 Visa gift card, recognition letter and round-trip airfare and rental car for a sevennight getaway at a PDS Health-sponsored location.

25th Anniversary - Recipients will receive a $1,500 Visa gift card, recognition letter and round-trip airfare and rental car for a five-night getaway at a PDS Health-sponsored location.

20th Anniversary - Recipients will receive a $1,500 Visa gift card, recognition letter and round-trip airfare and rental car for a five-night getaway at a PDS Health-sponsored location.

15th Anniversary - Recipients will receive a $750 Visa gift card, recognition letter and three-night weekend getaway at a PDS Healthsponsored location.

10th Anniversary - Recipients will receive a $750 Visa gift card and recognition letter.

5th Anniversary - Recipients will receive a $150 Visa gift card and recognition letter.

Celebrating 30 years with PDS Health

Thank you for dedicating 30 years of your career to PDS Health. You make us smile.

STEVE THORNE Founder and CEO PDS Health

Q: If you were to write a book about your leadership journey, what would the title be, and what’s the central message you’d want to convey?

A: I keep thinking back to the famous line from the 1994 film, Forrest Gump. “Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re going to get.” Coincidentally, this film came out the year PDS was founded. The message in that line is not too dissimilar from We Believe 2, which states: “Only God knows what tomorrow holds.”

When I reflect back on the last 30 years, there have certainly been many twists and turns. Some good, some not. But ultimately, how we react in the face of unexpected moments is where character comes from. The central message of the book would be one of humility, agility, continuous learning and gratitude. No matter what comes our way, as long as we are focused on those key areas, we will be better prepared to anticipate life’s curveballs with grace.

JON THORNE Chief Operating Officer, SVP, Operations PDS Health

Q: What was the company culture like when you first started, and how has it evolved over the years?

A: It is an interesting question as the culture has not changed all that much in my opinion. From the beginning we looked at the owner dentist as our key customer and a partner. Having that in our DNA has helped keep the culture consistent from the early days. We believe it is a culture that sets us apart from the competition.

DARIN REAGAN, DDS

Owner Dentist

Orange County Region

Q: What has brought you the most fulfillment in your 30 years with PDS Health?

A: Throughout my career, treating a dental phobic or fearful adult patient has proven to be challenging. However, when you take the time and care to gain their trust and then build their confidence by providing an experience unlike any they may have had previously, it is extremely rewarding. These are often the patients for life that are most appreciative and thankful.

PDS Health has also afforded me the opportunity to coach and mentor many new dentists. Seeing them also gain confidence and go on to become very successful colleagues and clinicians has been equally fulfilling.

It’s hard to believe it has been 30 years. Thank you to Steve Thorne and PDS Health for an amazing career!

BRIAN BUEHLER, DDS

Owner Dentist

Orange County Region

Q: What are your top career highlights here at PDS Health?

A: It’s difficult to narrow down my entire career into a few highlights but here’s some that stand out. I will always remember the second-hand office furniture at the original headquarters off of Wilson Street in Costa Mesa — we have grown so much since then.

My time as Director of Clinical Development was an incredible opportunity, one I cherish greatly. In that role and throughout my time here, I’ve had the pleasure of working with the most remarkable people and collaborate with exceptional colleagues and staff. A funny moment during my earlier days was when Stephen Hehn, VP of Imaging for Sirona Dental Systems, unveiled the first battery powered CEREC machine to me at my personal request while on a trip to Europe, but I was too jet lagged to even notice! I also have fond memories of cruising Heidelberg with Joe Feldsien — it was during his first visit to Europe.

If there’s one main focus I’ve tried to apply over the years it’s treat every patient like you would a family member.

Celebrating 25 years with PDS Health

Thank you for dedicating 25 years of your career to PDS Health. You make us smile.

CAROL BARTHOLOMEW

Registered Dental Assistant Inland Desert Region

Q: What have you enjoyed most working at PDS Health?

A: I’ve really enjoyed working with PDS Health these past 25 years. I’ve watched us grow as an organization that always stays up-to-date with the newest technology. PDS Health also gave me the opportunity to grow along with them. It’s been a pleasure working with new doctors and office team members, but most of all, it’s the daily interaction with patients that brings me true joy.

ELIZABETH MACFARLAND

Registered Dental Assistant South Inland Empire Region

Q: Can you describe the moment where you felt the proudest to be part of this company?

A: One big thing is our values and how we treat everyone, whether they’re team members, patients or people in need around the world. It’s not just about business; it’s about making a positive impact in people’s lives. Knowing that we’re helping those less fortunate, whether it’s through charity work or providing resources, really makes me proud to be part of this company. And finally, being able to share knowledge and promote good health with our patients is incredibly rewarding.

SUE CARVER

Auditor, Insurance Claims

Dallas Support Center

Q: You’ve been with PDS Health for 25 years now. Why PDS Health? What has encouraged you to stay with the company?

A: PDS Health strives to make a positive impact, not only for the team members, but for our patients as well. PDS Health gives so much back to the community, whether through volunteerism or generally doing good around the nation. It feels great to be a part of a company whose values are in alignment with my own. I have created so many positive relationships with colleagues during my time here. Working for a company that encourages collaboration and has a constant vision for growth is one I’m proud to work for.

MELANIE SMITH Regional Manager

Inland Desert Region

Q: Which We Believe do you most closely relate with and how has it elevated your role?

A: Success is built on the foundation of teamwork and the diversity, collaboration and trust of my team inspires me to be a better leader every day. Learning and growing together is far more powerful than what one can accomplish alone and watching team members at every level driving a collective commitment is more rewarding than any individual accomplishment I’ve experienced. In 25 years, PDS Health has experienced countless changes and has always kept our teams at the core, ensuring we succeed together.

PEARL VACA

Specialty Back Office Supervisor

North Los Angeles Region

Q: At PDS Health, we believe team members should own their development. What advice would you give to team members on how to do that?

VIRGINIA VINCE

Operations Manager

North West Arizona Region

Q: What are some of your top career highlights here at PDS Health?

A: I started my career as a benefits coordinator many years ago in California and am currently an operations manager in Arizona. Some of my biggest accomplishments working at PDS Health has been mastering my communication skills and providing excellent customer service to our patients. I love when patients express how comfortable they feel speaking with me because I am thorough and patient. I enjoy interacting with patients and being able to help them work towards their healthiest selves.

I’ve learned to effectively and efficiently run multiple doctors’ schedules and truly enjoy working with all different types of providers, including pediatric dentists and orthodontists. I love being part of our service days every year. We have the opportunity to make a difference in someone’s life and it gives me a sense of pride to be part of this wonderful experience, especially when patients openly express their gratitude.

A: My advice is you can go as far as you like. PDS Health has excellent training programs for whatever role you are interested in and great colleagues that are willing to share their knowledge while working side by side. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or make mistakes; that is how we learn. Take every experience, whether good or bad and turn it into a learning experience. I always use the analogy that this is like playing sports. We set you up for success and it’s now up to you to score the winning goal in your career.

JEFFREY WONG, DDS

Orthodontist

South Inland Empire Region

Q: What legacy do you hope to leave behind at PDS Health?

A: When called to make a decision that affects someone else, I try to apply the golden rule —treat others as I want to be treated. This simple idea has guided me in making the right treatment choices and relating well to patients and the people I work with. This, I believe, is the key to sustained success. It is my hope that I have inspired my friends and co-workers to carry on these values, and perhaps over time, pass the torch to those who come after us.

Celebrating 20 years with PDS Health

Inland Desert

RHONDA CHAGOLLA Receptionist

LINDSEY GONZALEZ Registered Dental Hygienist

SMITA KADAKIA, DDS Owner Dentist

LESLIE NORMAN Registered Dental Assistant

Irvine Support Center

BRENDA BARRIOS Analyst, Accounts Payable

JEFFREY BROWNING Sr. Program Manager, Oral Surgery

RENE CARBALLO CASTRO Technician, Field Service Maintenance

North Dallas Fort Worth

CHANMARIE POK

Lead Dental Assistant

North Inland Empire

JULIET APIN, DMD Associate Dentist

JOHN HSIEH, DMD Owner Dentist

LILIANA MANZO Lead Dental Assistant

JOSE PRECIADO

Lead Dental Assistant

NEELAM SANGROY Registered Dental Assistant

Eastern Arizona

SANDRA STACK

Regional Back Office Manager Greater Sacramento

ALLA KAMBUR

Registered Dental Assistant

DINA NELIPOVICH

Registered Dental Assistant

Gulf Coast

CHARLOTTE RAMOS

Regional Back Office Manager

KATHY SWINK

Lead Dental Assistant

LIZ DOWNEY Analyst, Health Information Management Data Integrity

JOSEPH FELDSIEN President, PDS Medical

SABRINA GOMEZ Sr. Manager, Billing Operations

JULIE MARGETICH Manager, Architectural

MARIO MARISCAL Director, Field Development

EMILY LUCAS MOLL Supervisor, Real Estate Accounts Payable

MICHAEL PINKERTON Manager, Maintenance Operations

JESSICA TAKATA Sr. Specialist, Curriculum

ERIKA VASQUEZ Specialty Dental Assistant, Endodontics

North Los Angeles

LINDA BANG, DDS Owner Dentist

MONICA DEL REAL Specialty Dental Assistant, Oral Surgery

LAURA GONZALEZ Lead Dental Assistant

DEAN LAMBRIDIS, DDS Owner Dentist

HAMBIK OKTANYAN, DDS Owner Dentist

BELINDA SIMONIAN, DDS Owner Dentist

MAHNAZ TAVAKOLI

Operations Manager

Orange County

CAROLYN FRANZEL

Lead Dental Assistant

BICHNGA NGUYEN

Lead Dental Assistant

SUMEET PANDHOH, DDS

Owner Dentist

RENEE PEREZ

Operations Manager

NASRIN SAFIAN

Lead Dental Assistant

JAMIE WALLANDER

Specialty Healthcare Coordinator

San Diego

JUDITH AGUIRRE

Specialty Healthcare Coordinator

OCTAVIO ARIZAGA

Specialty Dental Assistant, Orthodontics

ELSA ELIAS

Lead Registered Dental Assistant

ESTHER FLORES Dental Assistant

MARIA MANDIGMA

Registered Dental Assistant

BAYALINA MILLER

Specialty Dental Assistant, Periodontics

South Florida

ARMANDO BORROEL

Regional Manager, Specialty

MINH PHAM, DDS Owner Dentist

South Inland Empire

YVETTE CANO Healthcare Coordinator

LORENA TREJO-HERRERA Registered Dental Assistant

South Las Vegas

MONICA DACUMOS Dental Assistant

South Los Angeles

CHANEL NUNGARAY Regional Recruiter

DIANA VALES Regional Manager

Tennessee

VENISSA FOWLER

Regional Director

Congratulations New Owner Dentists

May - October 2024

MAY

Ali Arifuddin, DDS

Lutz Dentist Office

Central Florida Region

Bianca Macchiarella, DDS

Woodland Smiles Dentistry

Greater Sacramento Region

Hibba Bajwa, DDS, MPH

Citrus Heights Smiles Dentistry

Greater Sacramento Region

Bryan Shewanick, DDS

Blue Springs Dentistry

Midwest Region

Michael Beluch, DMD

Chelmsford Modern Dentistry

Massachusetts Region

Michelle Slade, DDS La Verne Dental Group North Inland Empire Region

Elise Cheng, DDS Lakeland Modern Dentistry Central Florida Region

JUNE

Apeldin Aghassi, DMD

Queen Creek Modern Dentistry

Eastern Arizona Region

Haritha Durairaj, DDS

Bryan Modern Dentistry Gulf Coast Region

Seth Stacey, DDS

Loveland Dental Group

Northern Colorado Region

Jillian Felton, DMD North Decatur Dentistry Georgia Region

AUGUST

Christine Al-Khouri, DDS Vista Modern Dentistry San Diego Region

Tina Ghibu, DMD Dentists of San Juan Capistrano Orange County Region

Arash Arad, DDS

My Kid’s Dentist & Orthodontics in Wildomar

South Inland Empire Region

Michael Hillegass, DDS Arvada Smiles Dentistry Northern Colorado Region

Salome Fraga, DMD

Pinecrest Modern Dentistry South Florida Region

Anna Enger, DMD Northshore Smiles Dentistry Tennessee Region

Thomas Dietrich, DMD Riverview Modern Dentistry Central Florida Region

Colorado Region

Shahla Mousavi, DDS The Vintage Modern Dentistry Gulf Coast Region

Thomas Montgomery, DDS

Valencia Modern Dentistry North West Arizona Region

Jose Estrada, DMD

Pueblo Modern Dentistry

Southern Colorado Region

Thu Do, DDS

Pflugerville Modern Dentistry

Gulf Coast Region

JULY

Robert

Grand Canyon Modern Dentistry

North Las Vegas/South Las Vegas Region

Jared Pearson, DDS My Kid’s Dentist & Orthodontics in Blue Springs Midwest Region

Ross Romero, DDS Woods Dental Group Gulf Coast Region

Evan

Dentists of Interquest

Southern Colorado Region

Del Oro Smiles Dentistry

San Diego Region

Yuba City

Nipa Kulenkamp, DMD Columbia Heights Dentistry Minnesota Region

Ellen Walker, DDS Dentists of Arvada Northern Colorado Region

Jaspreet Sembhi, DMD

Modern Dentistry Greater Sacramento Region

Frazier, DMD

Minhyung Ji, DMD Harbor City Modern Dentistry South Los Angeles Region

Jaskeerat Kaur, DMD Fig Garden Dental Group Central Valley/Bay Area Region

Kinjal Patel, DDS Pueblo Modern Dentistry Southern Colorado Region

Claudia Samaniego, DDS Cibolo Modern Dentistry Gulf Coast Region

Mackenzie Schumborg, DMD Prominent Point Dental Group Southern

Bingaman, DMD

Poonampreet Brar, DMD

Yusur Al-Tekreeti,

The Power of X

This year’s XP Gala theme builds on the early roots of the event’s own name. While “X” has historically represented the concept of eXtraordinary at PDS Health, it now takes on a whole new meaning. X is collaboration and cross-disciplinary innovation. It is transformational and represents eXponential change. X is the unknown variable driving creativity and eXploration. It is an intersection where ideas and eXperiences converge, where dental and medical join together. And most important, it is a multiplier leveraging scalable solutions for impact. That is eXtraordinary performance. It’s time to get eXcited because this is the Power of X.

Nominate a Colleague for an XP Award

PDS Health has a long tradition of recognizing extraordinary performance across the organization at its annual XP Awards celebration. But we can’t thank and recognize team members and clinicians who go above and beyond without your help. Do you have a colleague who deserves an extra special shoutout and a coveted XP award? Now is your chance to help them shine.

How to Submit an XP Award Nomination

Please visit pdsxp.com to submit your nomination(s) and explain why the team member you’re nominating is extraordinary. Make sure to detail the behaviors they’ve demonstrated and highlight the results they’ve achieved.

Winners will be celebrated at the XP Gala at the Sheraton Hotel in Dallas, Texas April 4-6, 2025. The deadline to submit nominations is midnight (PST), Dec. 29, 2024. You may submit a maximum of five nominations.

Choose eXtraordinary Nominations for XP eXecute eXperience eXcellence eXtraordinary

The PDS Hea

What are the XP Awards?

The Extraordinary Performance (XP) Program recognizes exceptional behaviors and actions of team members, both hourly and salaried, who contribute to achieving the PDS Health mission and embody our We Believes. All team members may nominate another colleague who they feel exemplify these behaviors.

There are eight categories of nominees:

• Front Office Team Member

• Dental Assistant

• Hygienist

• Associate Dentist/Specialists/Owner Dentist

• Operations Manager/Regional Manager /Specialty Regional Manager

• Regional Support

• National Support

• Medical For questions, please email pdsevents@pacden.com.