Gator Dentist Times UFCD ASDA News
3 Letter from the President 4 Meet the UFCD ASDA Board 6 Everything You Need to Know to Survive 1st Year 10 Family Day 11 The Future, Digital Impressions 12 Senator & Dentist, Alan Hays 17 The End of Graduate Subsidized Loans 19 Boards, White Coats, & Patients
September 2011
New Horizons for the Florida Clinical Licensure Exam
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s many of you have heard, there have been some changes implemented with the Florida clinical licensure exam, which is an exam completed at the end of senior year allowing graduates to practice dentistry in the state of Florida. In the past, the state of Florida offered its own clinical licensure examination which out-of-state graduates and practicing dentists had to successfully complete at UF or NOVA in order to practice dentistry in Florida. Anyone desiring to practice in Florida was required to take the Florida clinical licensure exam, regardless of their number of years in practice or previously completed licensure in another state. On May 31, 2011 Florida‟s Governor Rick Scott signed a bill recognizing the American Board of Dental Examiners, Inc. (ADEX) as Florida‟s new licensure examination organization.1 ADEX offers the American Dental Licensing Examination (ADLEX) to its 25 members including: Colorado, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Wyoming, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and most recently Florida.2 This decision has been considered for several years due to the similarities between the ADLEX and Florida‟s clinical licensure exam. Combined efforts from the Florida Dental Association and the Florida Board of Dentistry finally made this bill possible. The implementation of the new ADLEX will reduce costs associated with the previous independent state-developed clinical exam and grant eligibility to practice dentistry in several different states for those who successfully complete the examination. After October 1, 2011 anyone taking the ADLEX will be qualified to practice dentistry in the state of Florida. Fortunately, the bill is not retroactive, which means those
Jayme Kemp
who have taken the ADLEX in the past cannot simply migrate to Florida and establish a practice. But those individuals can apply for a one year licensure in Florida which must be maintained through additional examinations and requirements.1 Students should not be concerned as the new exam should be very similar to the previous Florida clinical examination and is equivalent in measuring clinical competence. This is just one step closer to achieving a uniform national examination for all dental students and practicing dentists to have fewer limitations in their careers.2 Our senior dental students are also experiencing changes in the timing of their clinical licensure examination. The Florida Board of Dentistry requires students at UF and NOVA to complete a mock board exam to prove their eligibility to take their clinical licensure examination during the spring break of their senior year. Students take the mock board exam in November of their senior year as part of a course requirement for graduation. If a student does not pass their mock board exam, they are unable to proceed with the clinical licensure examination (whether is it the ADLEX or another region‟s exam). Students are given several chances to take this mock board exam in the event that they do not pass on the first try. But this does not leave ample time to take the actual clinical examination in March due to the fact that students must pass the mock board to sign up for the clinical licensure exam, which must occur 60 days prior to the date they plan to sit for the actual licensure exam. The unfortunate students who do not make this deadline must take Continued on Page 2
Continued from Page 1 their clinical licensure exams post-graduation preventing them from beginning their careers immediately after dental school. It is no secret that our dental students are not huge fans of this mock board exam. Why must we take essentially TWO board exams our senior year? The stress of finding patients for both exams, completing graduation requirements, passing NBDE part II, job hunting, and residency interviews is enough to drive anyone insane. But without the mock board exam the Florida Board of Dentistry has no proof that UF or NOVA students are clinically competent to take their clinical licensure examinations prior
to graduation. Faculty members from UF and NOVA, senior dental students from the class of 2011 and 2012 as well as members of the Florida Board of Dentistry met earlier this year and agreed to change the date of the clinical licensure exam. The mock boards will still take place in November of senior year but students will now have more time between the mock boards and the actual boards in the event they do not pass mock boards on the first attempt. Beginning in 2012, senior dental students will now take their licensure exam in early May, approximately 2 weeks before graduation. This also allows more time for seniors to improve
their technical skills and screen for boards patients during the spring of their senior year. It is expected that students will be at their highest level of clinical competence just prior to graduation and should have no problem passing their clinical licensure examinations. Students receive their scores just a few days after taking the exam, allowing them to graduate and start their dream jobs immediately post-graduation. The few students that may struggle to pass in May can register to retake the exam in early August. But with the new structure of the examination process, we hope all students can complete their mock boards on time and pass their clinical licensure examinations in May with flying colors- ORANGE and BLUE! Best wishes to the class of 2012! 1.
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Fox, Karen. "Landmark Decision in Florida: State Opts for ADEX Exam for Dental Licensure - American Dental Association ADA.org." American Dental Association. 02 June 2011. Web. 22 Aug. 2011. <http:// www.ada.org/news/5903.aspx>. ADEX. Web. 22 Aug. 2011. <http:// www.adex.org/>.
theNEXTDDS Visit theNEXTDDS.com and enroll yourself in this new dental student portal. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x;s free and will require your ASDA membership number. Another reason to belong to ASDA. Some articles from the Practice Management section will be used as required readings in DEN 8321 Small Business Principles and Practices, which starts for seniors in September. Enroll now and start using some of the other resources on the website and connect with other dental students in different parts of the country.
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A Letter From Our President Dusty Pfundheller ASDA is very excited to be actively involved with UFCD this year. Our primary goals include keeping members informed about important new legislation and rules; helping convert seniors to FDA & ADA membership; and providing educational opportunities throughout the year. As part of ASDA‟s leadership team, I can assure all members that we are working diligently to keep you informed, including producing two newsletters a semester, updating our website and bulletin board, and holding monthly meetings (with food provided to encourage you to come and learn about the issues!)
In addition to dispensing information, legislation is a significant focus this year. Therefore, UF ASDA has several board members assigned to specific legislative positions! Also, we are very excited to have current State Senators, House of Representatives, and FDA legislative committees come and speak to us. Furthermore, any ASDA member may participate in State and National lobby day. Another focus of ASDA is to continue to organize large events for the ADA and FDA convention, including organizing a large trip to this year‟s ADEA‟s annual spring convention. Also, we will invite both the ADA & FDA to speak to us throughout the year. Attend meetings and conventions so ASDA can hear your voice. Best of all--ASDA plans to have many fun events this year! One event was recently creating an awesome ethics video that we are anxious to have members view. Also, each month ASDA will be planning various community service, educational, and social events for students which will be posted on our on-line
Christie Eastman and Dusty Pfundheller
calendar. We are excited for a fun year with ASDA and hope you are too!
Live patients and the Florida Dental Licensing Exam
periodontal procedures. This is important because the exam is not just a test of the candidate‟s ability to mill an intricate shape while having their vision obstructed. Every hour of every working day a dentist must be able to manage a live patient, with a whole body, saliva, blood, a moving tongue, and an opinion about the dentist, their treatment and their environment. The dentist must properly diagnose whether the paThe state of Florida, tient has a condition that will benefit from the knowledge and skills of the dentist. The dentist must also assess whether he/she has the supported by the Florida knowledge and skills to treat this individual patient, while having their Board of dentistry, and the vision obstructed by blood, saliva, cheeks, a tongue and the patient‟s Florida Dental Association has joined with ADEX to of- desire or ability to help them complete the task. The manual skills are fer an examination identical to the least of what we do. This is what makes us doctors and separates us from technicians. the Florida Dental Licensing Exam in locations other than Manikins and computer simulations are excellent training aids the state of Florida. For sever- and have a place in introducing us to new skills. They do not replace al years other states have rec- live patients. Until dentists can make a living treating manikins, or canognized the validity of the didates are applying for a license to treat manikins, I wholeheartedly Florida exam and accepted it disagree with those who believe that testing on manikins proves we when candidates petitioned their state for licensure. More students will have skill with live patients. now have the ability to take the clinical licensing exam for Florida Respectfully, without having to travel to Florida or enjoy the many expenses of takJohn H. Paul DMD ing an out of state exam. Florida Dental Association The examination includes live patients for both restorative and
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What is ADPAC?
As students it is often hard to look at what is going on outside of our current curriculum. However, it is important to be aware that what happens today in the political world will have a heavy impact on our The American Dental Political Action Committee otherwise careers after we graduate. Issues such as access to healthcare, Medicaid, known as ADPAC is an important bipartisan legislative arm of the expanded duties of auxiliary personnel and licensure are current hot topAmerican Dental Association (ADA). Its main purpose is to elect conics and it is important that we have someone that is willing to represent gressional candidates who understand the issues that are important to us while the government is deciding how to resolve all of these issues. dental professionals. Every year, congressional members debate countThere are many ways to participate as a student. It only cost $5 less numbers of bills that affect health care and the medical profession. to join as a student compared to the $49 for graduated dentist. An ADADPAC works by providing financial contributions to candidates that PAC drive will be happening soon but if youâ&#x20AC;&#x;d like to go ahead and join, are willing to speak on the behalf of all dental care providers. These canyou can find more information on the ADA or ASDA website. didates serve as advocates for current and future dental professionals. In addition, ADPAC also provides opportunities for dentists and specialist Anthony Le who are interested in running for public office to learn about how to ASDA ADPAC/National Issues Chair reach their goals.
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Everything You Need to Get Through the First Year of Dental School Getting in to dental school is a great accomplishment, and everyone is eager and anxious to get started with their new education. Despite this excitement, the beginning of dental school can be quite overwhelming. It is important to learn to balance your time between a variety of classes and information as well as your life outside of C1-4. First years, do not stress, the Class of 2014 has helped to compile some great tips for you to help make your transition into dental school. 10. Do not compare yourself to others. Everyone has different backgrounds, life situations, study habits, and goals. Do what you need to do for yourself to reach your own goals. 9. Have plenty of chocolate around. It always makes you feel better J 8. Make time for hobbies – IM games, working out, leisure reading, cooking, etc. Give yourself a real break away from the computer. 7. Laugh, spend time with your friends and family, and have fun! Get involved in clubs and activities with your class and the dental school. Stress release and enjoying life is vital for good overall health. 6. Prioritize and stay organized. Know what classes you need to spend more or less time on. 5. Do not procrastinate. Stay on top of your classes on a daily basis so you do not get too far behind and cause unnecessary stress during exam blocks. 4. Do not expect to excel right away in regards to hand skills. Practice and you will improve with time. The learning curve is not a myth and you will get there! 3. Do not forget to sleep! Your brain and body need sleep to function properly 2. Have a good support system. Your family and friends are your life line! 1. Always remember to envision your goals and maintain focus on why you are here! J On top of these things do not forget to ask upper classmen for help and advice, may it be with the basic sciences or your dental anatomy/operative courses. We are always willing to help because we know what you are going through! With that being said, do not forget to take the advice that you are given with a grain of salt because everyone is different (see number 10). Good luck Class of 2015! Special thanks for contributions to: Courtney Worlinksy, Lauren Dupre, Valentina Espinosa, Melissa Bridy, Danny Sabra, Valentina Ayala, Jesse Alonso, and Logan Schenck.
Chelsea Brinkman
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Susan Nimmo, DDS, MPH At first I didn‟t want to be a dentist because my mother made me work in her orthodontic practice as an assistant and I didn‟t think I‟d like working with spit all the time. Eventually I stopped fighting the inevitable and succumbed to my destiny as a good Chinese firstborn whose parents could proudly refer to as “Our daughter, the dentist.” It didn‟t strike me until much later just how liberated and ahead of their time my parents were. The first year in dental school my dental anatomy bench instructor announced that my mandibular molar “looked like a daisy.” (He was probably right.) The second year of dental school was remarkable in that my bench instructor for my denture course was rather cute. (The rest is history.) The third year in dental school I met my first dental patients, some from whom I still receive Christmas cards 26 years later. My last case in dental school to graduate was 6 anterior PFM crowns cemented the last day of clinic. (Stress? What stress?) The first reason I like dentistry remains the patients: the opportunity to serve others by doing what is needed in a professional and caring manner. The second reason I like dentistry is the camaraderie with other professionals either in patient care or organized dentistry; the outcome is often greater that the sum of the parts. Finally, I love dentistry because of the students; young people with lots of questions and energy that continue to keep life interesting and new. As faculty advisor to AAWD I strive to pass on the opportunities that were made available to me to succeed as a dental professional.
Not Your Typical District Meeting: UF ASDA chapter will be hosting the ASDA district five meeting from September 9 th through September 11th! LSU, UAB, Nova, and Puerto Rico all plan to be in attendance. The conference is packed with prestigious speakers including Florida State Senator Dr. Alan Hays; State House of Representative Dr. Costello; the founder of “Save the Smile”, Dr. Terry Buckenheimer; and the ADA 2010 Membership Chair
as well as the FDA Vice President. Also, many of our own professors will be presenting including former American Association of Dental Research President Dr. Marc Heft; our Dean of The University of Florida Dental School Dr. Teresa Dolan; former American Dental Education Association President Dr. Catalanotto. The meeting will end with a cookout on Sunday morning at Lake Wauburg. One of the highlights of the weekend is that one leader from each school will attend the UF vs. UAB football game, sitting with UF‟s President in the Presidents box! This district meeting will be one of the largest District 5 meetings ever held, with some of the most prestigious presenters. All ASDA members are encouraged to attend! Hope to see you there! Dusty Pfundheller, District 5 ASDA Trustee
ASDA Trivia Night
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Psi Omega
The Chapter of the University of Florida continues to make great strides this year! With more members than ever, we are moving full steam ahead in both our academic and extracurricular endeavors. Our goal, which is to provide the absolute best experience for our members and community through academic offerings, community outreach, and social activities, remains consistent. One of the oldest traditions carried out by Psi-O involves our football tailgators! Nothing compares to game day at the University of Florida, for which our tailgate is a staple. With delicious food, a great DJ, and unbeatable people, it is no wonder these weekly events have become so popular. In fact, our homecoming tailgate had over 400 people in attendance last season. In addition to tailgates, the society plans to host socials to allow members to take a break from the stresses of school. We will also plan CE courses for upperclassman and other extracurricular events for all. Psi-O is a unique organization and I welcome everyone to take the opportunity to become a member! For more information about Psi-O, please contact Keith Polizois kpolizois@dental.ufl.edu or Caitlin Buchanan cbuchanan@dental.ufl.edu.
ASDA Welcomes 3 New US Dental Schools!
their dental school‟s chapters and organizations. Of course, with the rewards also come the challenges. The first class of a dental school may have the disadvantage of being the “guinea pig” class. They may not receive the same benefits that a more established dental school will be able to provide its students (for instance, By the end of this summer, three brand East Carolina‟s brand new clinics…but pending new dental schools will open their doors to their very first incoming classes. These schools completion of the construction!). are East Carolina University School of DenRoseman University and Midwestern tal Medicine in Greenville, North Carolina, University-IL are both private dental schools Roseman University of Health Sciences College of Dental Medicine in South Jordan, Utah, while East Carolina University is a state school and Midwestern University College of Dental of North Carolina, currently open to only North Medicine-Illinois located in Downers Grove. Carolina residents. Though a private institution, Midwestern University enrolled its first dental Roseman University will be the first dental school class on its Glendale, Arizona campus in school established in the state of Utah. The fact 2008. All three of these schools have been granted “initial accreditation” by the Commis- that North Carolina is now opening its second sion on Dental Accreditation (CODA) and have state dental school while other states such as admitted full classes of dental students for this Massachusetts, New Mexico and Wisconsin coming Fall 2011 semester. East Carolina Uni- have yet to establish public dental schools for versity has enrolled a class size of 50 students, their residents may be puzzling or even frustratRoseman University has enrolled a class of 80 ing to some dental students. and Midwestern University-IL has enrolled a class of 125. With the addition of these three It is projected that 20 more new dental new dental schools, the total number of dental schools will have opened their doors to eager schools in the U.S. has climbed to 61. dental students by the year 2020. Is this a good answer to the challenge of barriers to care? The very first matriculating class of a dental school has the unique opportunity to What are your thoughts on being a bond very closely with the faculty, receive part of an inaugural class of a brand new more attention than those in dental schools with dental school? Wise or risky? 4 full classes of students, as well as get in~Allison Ferris, Tufts ’14, ASDA Administravolved in the initiation and establishment of tive Extern
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This article has been reprinted with the permission of the American Student Dental Association. It originally appeared as a blog post on Mouthing Off, www.ASDAblog.com.
Ethics Corner: The Realities of Prescription Opioid Abuse Angela McNeight ‟13 ASDA Ethics Chair When I opened up my mailbox last month, a picture of a huge red and white pill caught my eye on the front of one of the magazines. Looking more closely, I realized it wasn‟t just another ad from CVS, but rather the July 2011 Journal of the American Dental Association (JADA). The cover story “Prevention of Prescription Opioid Abuse” Denisco et al was written by a committee of the Tufts Health Care Institute Program on Opioid Risk Management, and the article is studded with shocking statistics. One states, “Dentists prescribe 12 percent of IR opioids in the United States, behind only family physicians, who prescribe 15 percent of IR opioids.” At UFCD, we are constantly reminded about the dangers of prescription drug abuse and the responsibility we have as future health care providers. We do not foresee ourselves blatantly prescribing unneeded medication to an addict or friend. However, we must be aware that patients can fake symptoms of pain, forge prescriptions, alter pill quantities, or claim their prescriptions were lost or stolen. “Doctor shopping” to obtain controlled drugs is absolutely a real phenomenon. Dentists must carefully balance the responsibilities of taking their patients out of pain (beneficence), avoiding overprescribing, and screening patients for their substance abuse risk level. So the next time you are on SOS rotation or filling out medical history during a COE asking about drug use, you may want to pause a second longer, look the patient in the eye, and really listen to their response.
Be suspicious of patients who tell you stories about how their medication was “lost” or “stolen.” Determine whether your patient actually needs an opioid for their pain and discuss the likelihood they will use it. Secure prescription pads when they are not in use. Write out dosage quantities and indicate “no refills” unless you are sure they are needed. Consider if the patient is referred from another dentist that they may have already received a prescription for an analgesic. Advise patients on how to dispose of their remaining doses properly. Ask the family members of patients with self-proclaimed substance abuse disorders to dispense the medication when needed to the patient. Discuss patient‟s drug abuse history with their primary care physician or if referring, to the specialist. If you‟d like to read this article: Denisco, Richard C et al. "Prevention of Prescription Opioid AbuseThe Role of the Dentist." The Journal of the American Dental Association 142.7 (July 2011): 800-10. Print.
UFASDA
Suggestions: Familiarize yourself with evidence-based guidelines and recommendations for treatment of pain in patients with and without suspected substance abuse.
Christian Dental Society The
(CDS) is a group of dental students who are passionate about their Christian faith. We go on a mission trip to Guatemala every year, and we help organize community dental treatment through GCM (Gainesville Community Ministry) in Gainesville. Our group meets every Tuesday during lunch to join in fellowship and prayer. Come join us! If you would like to be added to our list serv or have questions about CDS, the Guatemala Mission Trip, volunteering at GCM, or God please contact our President Drew Byrnes AByrnes@dental.ufl.edu or our Secretary Don Dau DDau@dental.ufl.edu.
John Syrbu, Iowa '13
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Class of 2014 Family Day Throughout the course of dental school, there are events that mark the progression of a dental student towards achieving a dental degree. The first of these events is Family Day, which occurs at the end of the spring semester of the first year. This year the Class of 2014 welcomed family and friends from all over the United States to join us on this special day. There was a great turnout, and it was our first opportunity to meet our classmatesâ&#x20AC;&#x; family from out of town. Family day allowed the Class of 2014 to take a second and look back at all of the accomplishments we have achieved throughout the past year. It is unbelievable to think that just one short year ago, some individuals came to UFCD not knowing anyone, and now, many of us have made friends that we plan to keep for a lifetime. During the morning speeches, all of the guests were informed on how much time we spend with each other and how important our lives out side of dental school are to us even if we do not always show it. We made sure to thank our guests for playing such an instrumental role in this journey that has brought us to where we are today. The morning was completed with a few hours in the simulation lab. Potential future dentists and future patients occupied the seats in the sim lab that normally occupy the 82 members of 2014. Some family members were even able to re-live their time in dental school and reminisce on how much things have changed. The day was filled with laughter and excitement. We were all left waiting for our next big milestone, the White Coat Ceremony. Lauren Dupre UFCD Class of 2014 President
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The Future of Digital Impressioning
I met with Dr. Weinstein to receive my digital impressioning tutorial. She informed me that we currently have two digital impressioning units at our school: the CEREC we‟ve had for six years and iTero has been here since January 2011. With the iTero, you just scan your image and then send it off to lab. With CEREC, you Shawn Stott have the options of sending it straight to lab or the restoration can be done “in house,” mostly From many years ago to today, creating impressions resorted to mixing alginate and porcelains. The students learn from a demo with gypsum like a scientist and gagging your patient the CEREC, but with the iTero, there‟s really no software because it tells you what steps to folfor an occlusal analysis, and then inevitable low. The CEREC also requires a bluish spray to retakes to succeed with no voids, bubbles, or missed anatomy. I have recently felt this frustra- coat the patient‟s teeth before scanning, whereas iTero does not. But after she showed me both tion. After two failed impressions, I was prepunits and I could see that the iTero instrument is ping myself at the counter, Okay you can do this, just pour and mix faster this time, drizzle it a little heavy for the operator to hold for long and it is a little more bulky than the CEREC into the tray, and make sure you get it far which is a disparity for a patient‟s small mouth, enough in your patient’s (my classmate) mouth to seat her second molars, but not too far that you hit the centrals up front… and finally I got a negative model that was acceptable but not great. It‟ll have to do because now I have to strategically race up to junior/senior lab, squeeze into line, and hope I can pour my stone, mount to my articulator, and clean my station (plus retrieve my scattered supplies) before 5‟o clock! That was over a month ago in Dr. Notzer‟s Occlusion course and now I stand in clinic, mesmerized by the pure brilliance of Cadent‟s iTero digital impression unit. Dr. Weinstein stood beside the third year to guide him through the technique and I laughed when she said, “It‟s like a video game!” It was so precise that it would tell the user to take another image more mesial of tooth 14 if the previous one was unacceptable and would blink green when he scanned over the missing piece. I knew with today‟s iPads and smart phones, there had to be a more advanced approach to making models than goop and gagging your patient.
so they both have their advantages and disadvantages. I have received a few responses from the Class of 2012 for their take on the wave of technology. Bryan Thatcher explained his experience to me that resulted in a crown remake
because of his impression scan error so he concluded, “Overall it is a quick, clean system with a steep learning curve. The operative should have proper training before using it on a patient.” Kevin Parekh said, “My three experiences with CEREC have been all fair to bad. There is a significant learning curve involved, but, this is the future of dentistry so I am not shunning this technology by any means.” In general I have received the same response: It is the direction advanced dentistry is heading, but there is most certainly a technique learning curve that requires a handful of experience to master. Dr. Weinstein also informed me that, “the students are to complete 5 traditional impressions prior to use of the Itero Impression System. The software may be a little tricky but the seniors seem to have picked it up along the way. We have done 50 cases of crown and bridge on the Itero digital sytem with no remakes.” Dr. Ottenga added, “By and large it is the direction of indirect inlays/onlays, it will save more time when you get used to the technique.” This year, Dr. Ottenga instituted a requirement in Operative for all students to complete at least one CEREC restoration prior to graduation, something we can all look forward to. On the other hand, if you and digital imaging don‟t get along well at UF, hopefully your assistant can be a part of making this a speedy process in your practice one day.
ASDA Volunteers at St. Francis House 11
Alan Hays: Senator Dentist UFCD Alumnus Carolyn A. Norton For many dental students, getting accepted to the dental school of their choice was the ultimate goal. An acceptance letter from a dental school essentially means that if you work hard now, then you will get to be a dentist 4 years later. I was definitely one of these students, very focused on one, big purpose, but now that I am in dental school, what comes next? I find myself often thinking about this, wondering if I should specialize or not, where I would do a GPR if I did, and even what I would do after that. Although to some degree it is necessary, and important, to anticipate the future, not having all of the answers right now is okay. This is an important lesson for us Type A personalities to learn- and something we can learn from Senator Alan Hays. If you asked Alan as a young boy what he wanted to be when he grew up, I am pretty sure he would not have said dentist. If you asked Alan Hays as an undergrad in college what he wanted to do with his life, he probably still would not have said dentist. If you asked Dr. Alan Hays, working in his family practice, what his future plans were, he probably would not have said become a Florida state senator. Senator Alan Hays’ story so simply and naturally illustrates that you do not need to plan and orchestrate every single moment of your life to have a great impact on your community, state, and country. Sometimes the best paths in life are the unplanned ones, the surprises you find around corners and through friends. Senator Alan Hays was born in Kentucky, but grew up in Winter Garden, Florida. He completed junior college in Oklahoma,
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which included 2 years of football, and then received another scholarship to play football at Kent State University. Hays eventually became a member of the UFCD charter class of 1976. The charter class had over 2000 applications, and only 24 students were selected among these applicants. Hays was one of these 24 individuals, and, in addition, he was elected president of his class in his senior year. Hays was also the founding president of the UFCD Alumni Association. He also served one term as the president of the Academy 100, which is now called the Academy of Friends and Alumni. In undergrad, Hays studied trade and industrial education and planned to become a
drafting teacher. Instead, he enlisted in the US Coast Guard. During his time in the Coast Guard, Hays worked as a dental assistant for 4 years. The more he learned about dentistry, working and talking with the Coast Guard dentists, the more he realized that this profession was right for him. Upon discharge from the Coast Guard, he moved to Gainesville, Florida with his wife and daughter. There he enrolled in the UF undergraduate curriculum in order to complete the science credits necessary to apply to dental school at UF. Hays was accepted, and matriculated in the fall of 1972.
Senator Hays‟ favorite thing about Gainesville is without question football season.
He has been a Gator fan since 1955. There was a ten or twelve year span of time in which Hays attended every single game the Gators played at home and on the road. His dream as an athlete was to play football for the Gators but as he puts it, “Instead of using a stop watch to time my sprints, the coaches used a calendar”. There are many benefits to being in the charter class of a dental school. Those students were the first class to get new operatories, a new building, and they basically got to do so many more procedures than present day students. Hays and one of his classmates were each able to complete and cement more than 50 units of crown and bridge treatment before graduating. At the time, there were no oral surgery residents, there were no perio residents. If someone came in with impacted 3rd molars that needed to be taken out, Hays was able to do it. Students had so much hands on experience with procedures that we, as dental students today, would probably only observe. This, I feel, would be the greatest and most beneficial privilege of being in a charter dental class, but there are many others, like having 24 students and more than 50 faculty members all focused on making each one of you the best dentists you can possibly be. This type of attention and guidance must have been overwhelming, but in the best of ways. Faculty and students were very close, and most students became personal friends with their professors, even sharing meals with each other‟s families. Hays says, he was very fortunate to be working with some of the “brightest and best minds in the country at that time”. Hays was actually scheduled to be the first student to put fillings in a patient‟s mouth at UFCD, but then the patient called at the last minute and cancelled on him. After dental school, Hays opened a family practice in Umatilla, Florida. Hays recalls that he had 8 patients on his first day of practice and 12 patients on the second, and after that there was no time to count. The nearest dental office at the time was 60 miles north of
his office. He owned his practice for 27 years and then sold it in 2003, staying on for 6 months during a transition period, working 2 days per week.
(Florida National Dental Convention), and he spends a lot of time meeting with various dental societies to talk about legislative matters that affect dentists. He is Shortly after this time, a friend asked Hays Represents District also currently working closely him to run for the Florida House of Representa20, NW of Orlando. with UFCD Dean, Teresa Dotives. There were already 4 people in the race, lan, helping her with state denand saying yes was a very last minute decision, tal legislative issues. Hays still giving him only 10 weeks to campaign. The works on a patient every now and amount of time spent campaigning is usually 1 then; some of his friends just to 1.5 years, and, in addition, Hays also had to don‟t want anybody else working consider the fact that when most people run for in their mouth. More than anyoffice they do not get elected the first time thing I think this demonstrates around. In the end, Hays won 36% of the vote how dedicated and loyal Hays‟ in a 5 person race, which was sufficient to patients were to his practice and place him in the House of Representatives. He speaks worlds about Hays‟ ability attributes his win to being widely known from to represent our profession. his 27 years of practice. His patients had confidence in him and knew he would take care of their tax dollars as well as he did their teeth. He served in the House for 6 years and then ran for Senate when a seat opened up last year. “First and foremost, always, under all circum-
not count the patients over the years that have said, „I don‟t stances be honest with your patients. If you like what don‟t know what‟s happening, be professional you had to enough to tell them, „I don‟t really know, but I tell me, but I sure appreciate you being honest will find out‟. And secondly, never, under any with me.‟ There is no substitute for honesty and circumstances let a patient leave your office quality. If the shade is not correct or if the marwith a service in their mouth that you would gin is not correct, then send it back to the lab. If not allow to be done in your own mouth or that the contact is too open, then send it back to the of your loved ones.” Hays further explains, this is what he does the most lab. It will take more time to do it right, but it “We owe every patient our very best effort and will take a whole lot more time to correct a of. He also loves that his job allows him to learn so much about environmental protection should always make sure that the services we mistake later on.” render for them are the same quality we would and energy problems, education system problems, and the budgeting and legislature process. allow in our own mouth.” A successful dentist should never, and would never, violate these The list goes on and on; the more people he “After you two rules. interacts with, the more he learns. Hays is get out of school, make a point to get in the known for being a strong advocate for property Hays explains that he always apdental chair as a patient at least once every 5 insurance reform in Florida, he is a very proached patients from the standpoint of being staunch fiscal conservative and hates seeing tax teammates. “Basically I considered myself the years. Get one of your colleagues to find something to do in your mouth, just so you can repayer dollars wasted in our government at the hired hand. The patient is the boss, and my late to what your patients go through every day. national, state, and local levels. Hays views obligation was to give the patient options and We have one of the most highly regarded prohimself as a steward to his constituents; the recommendations” based on an examination of fessions in this country, and it is up to you and people of his district have entrusted him with his or her mouth. Hays advises us as students to your generation to perpetuate the esteem with their tax dollars, and it is up to him to be a be as thorough, detailed, and precise as possiwhich the public holds our fine profession.” good steward, maximizing the value of what ble. Tell the patient their options, the cost, and his people get for their money. what they can expect out of each treatment If you would like to meet Senator Alan Hays, he will be speaking at the ASDA District 5 Regionoption in terms of longevity and value. Let Even though his main focus now is al Meeting on September 10, 2011 from 12:50 being a Senator, Hays keeps all of his CE hours them make the decision out of those options, pm to 1:25 pm right here at UFCD. We look up to date so that his dental license is valid, he and if they ask you for your recommendation, forward to seeing you all there. then give it. But, be honest. Hays says, “I canstill goes to dental conventions, like FNDC
Hays has 2 pieces of advice for dental students:
Hays’ favorite thing about being a Senator is helping his constituents cut through the government red tape-
Final words from Senator Alan Hays:
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ASDA, besides being an institution that
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promotes political advocacy for dentists and dental students, has many tangible
Free enrollment to NEXTDDS.com - This is a
BENEFITS FOR MEMBERS. As an ASDA member is important that you are informed of the many other benefits you get with your membership. Here is a quick list of them: Student loan & debt management services- GL
Credit card plans for students- Bank of America
students!
website designed for D1-D4 which features
Every dental stu-
instructional videos, publications and much
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more to complement our learning in the class-
ASDA member.
room and clinics.
For more ques-
Publications to keep you up to date with all the advances and decision that are done about and within our profession. Take full advantage of your ASDA member-
Advisor
dentistry & dental
ship during your time at UFCD – stay involved & up to date on the latest information affecting
tions regarding ASDA membership please contact Janis Kendrick, jkendrick@dental.ufl.edu. Janis Kendrick is the UFCD ASDA Membership Chair.
JOIN ASDA!
Student discount on test prep servicesKaplan Test Prep & Admissions Discount on wireless services -10%- Tmobile Insurance (Many different insurance companies)- United Healthcare, ADA Life & Disability Insurance Plans (which is Free with your membership), Geico
The Future is Bright for 2015 Haley Freymiller
T
he 83 members of the Class of 2015 beat out 1429 other applicants for their seats this year, slightly less than last year‟s total applicants of 1539. Compared to classes in years past, the Class of 2015 is
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younger, having an average age of 23 years old, and is composed of 46 females and 37 males. Of the 83 people, 80 have earned Baccalaureate degrees and 8 have also earned Masters degrees. Their class consists of 76 Florida residents, 37 of which are native Floridians, and 7 out-of-staters. According to a study by our own Dr. Sandow, when looking at admission criteria, there is a strong relationship between the DAT Academic score and the NB-I and NB-II scores. The Class of 2015 has an above-thenational-DAT Academic-average score of 20,
with the national average being a 19. Dr. Sandow also found correlations between science GPA and both yearly and final dental school GPA. With a total science GPA of 3.49, which is right on par with the national average, combined with the DAT score, the Class of 2015 has all of the predictors of becoming a shining class for the UF College of Dentistry. Sandow, P., Jones, A., Peek, C., Courts, F., Watson, R. 2002. Correlation of Admission Criteria with Dental Schhol Performance and Attrition. Journal of Dental Education: 66(3): 385-92.
Nereyda P. Clark, DMD Email: nclark@dental.ufl.edu Dental school you graduated from: University of Florida College of Dentistry 1977. Undergraduate: University of Miami, Organic Chemistry Position held at UFCD: Associate Professor Department of Restorative Sciences Dental Specialty: GP
received an appropriate family of patients and completed them, you would graduate! Some individuals actually graduated a semester early (and some a semester late). What would you have been if you weren’t a dentist? I would probably have been a chemistry professor at the college/university level.
treatment planning took me six hours! Just as you do today, I also had to mount study casts, take an FMX, and go through all the forms. How did you know teaching was right for you? I started teaching right after I graduated from dental school. I have always been passionate about sharing my knowledge with others and making an impact in their lives. I have always been curious about how things work. I am patient, and I desire that my students fully understand what I am trying to teach them. It gives me such pleasure to have alumni come back and remind me of what I taught them years before, and thank me for teaching.
What is your favorite thing about dentistry? There are three things that I love about being a dental professor. First of all, my job allows me to be very versatile. I get to interact with patients on a frequent basis, which gives me an opportunity to practice comprehensive dentisWhy did you want to be a dentist? During my try. But more importantly, it allows me to teach childhood, I thought of becoming a veterinari- my patients about their oral health and hopeful- Tell me a little bit about your family: I have an, dental hygienist or flight attendant. Unfor- ly make a difference in their lives. Secondly, I two children. Tyler is twenty-six years old. He tunately, my Cuban parents were did his undergraduate studies here at very traditional and since there were UF and has a Masters in guidance no vet schools near Miami where we counseling from UVA. My daughter lived, I was dissuaded from applying Abby is twenty-two years old, also to vet school. During my undergradcompleted her undergraduate degree uate education at the University of at UF, and is moving to San FrancisMiami, while working a job in a co to pursue a Masters in Fine Arts chemistry research laboratory, I dewith a specialization in photography. veloped a strong interest in science My husband Dan is a data manageand in particular, organic chemistry. ment expert who is currently workLater, I got married and my husband ing on grant-funded research projects at the time was accepted to UF‟s within the UF College of Design, medical school. Living in GainesConstruction and Planning. My mom ville, I learned about the dental proand 2 sisters live in Miami with their gram at UF through some first year husbands and children. dental students. I was really fascinated by the innovative curriculum, and What is your favorite hobby? I decided to apply. I wanted a better absolutely love being by the water. If way of life and my previous childI had more free time I would love to hood curiosity in dental hygiene still go to the lake or beach to sail and remained, sparking my interest in becoming a water ski. I would love to spend more time outenjoy my time in the student clinics because it side. dentist. allows me to stay youthful and teach students my passion for dentistry. I expect a lot from my What is the coolest place you have ever been Curriculum at UFCD in when you went to students and I try my best to convey my school: I think the dental curriculum when I to in the world? Capri, an island off the southwent to school was way ahead of its time. Eve- knowledge so that they may become the best ern coast of Italy. When I was a teenager, my dentists they can be. Lastly, dentistry gives me sister and I traveled to Europe and we visited rything was self-paced. We read books, watched videos and watched slides-tapes in the an opportunity to think on a daily basis. I love Capri. We went swimming in the grottos! I the research aspect of dentistry where I have library and took our tests when we were have many fond memories of our trip. the opportunity to develop a question, and think “ready”. All the dental classes were pass/fail. We had minimal dental faculty interaction until through the process to find an answer. Words of wisdom to future dentists: Dentiswe got into pre-clinic and clinic. We took our try is, first and foremost, a very peopleFavorite memory in dental school: My favor- oriented, caring profession that will engage all basic sciences with the medical students and ite memory was one day I thought I had failed a of your senses. It demands accuracy and preciwere able to take Boards Part I after our first year. Our clinical curriculum was competency- post test and I actually got a perfect score. sion, but also offers many opportunities for Worst memory of dental school: I made a based. We were assigned a family of patients creativity and innovation. Treat patients comthat provided a wide variety of clinical experi- silly mistake when I was making my first den- prehensively and always view your work in the ences. Since we were focused on comprehen- ture and thought it was the end of the world. I larger context of the patient‟s health and wellwas just told to redo it. sive care, we had to finish all of the patient‟s being. Dentistry is a wonderful profession care to recall. If something happened and the always strive to do the best you can each day. Memory of 1st patient: He was a young papatient was unable to continue, we received another patient and had to start at the beginning tient, in his late teens. He did not have many Valentina Espinosa treatment needs but his data collections and with their treatment. The idea was that if you
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Summer Research Experience Sergio Jacas, UFCD Class of 2015 Every summer since 1995 the University of Florida College of Dentistry has offered incoming first year dental students the chance to participate in their Summer Research Program. The program is designed to provide students with an interest in research the opportunity to carry out a ten-week research project under the direction of a faculty member. This year eight students were selected to participate in the program. We worked on a variety of different projects with great supporting mentors that guided us throughout the program. The final objective was to construct an abstract based on the ten weeks of research and present the results at an abstract presentation. We later will have the opportunity to present the research in other national and international dental research meetings. In general, it offers an excellent introduction to research and also to the college as a whole. The program allowed us to form relationships with faculty and become familiar with the college prior to commencing dental school. Throughout the ten weeks, we had several lunch & learns and social gatherings that gave us a chance to interact with some of our professors and other dental students. It gives us some level of comfort coming into our first year, already recognizing some familiar faces as we walk the hallways of Shands. The social gatherings were also a great introduction
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to the city of Gainesville for some of us in the program. Overall, the Summer Research Program offers a great experience for incoming freshman dental students. I would highly recommend it without hesitation. The application to the Summer Research Program tries to match each student up with a mentor depending on his or her interest in research. The students picked what they found most interesting from a list of research topics that the faculty are currently working on. As I looked through the list I found significant importance in every research project. I was willing to participate in any of the projects because I was simply excited to learn something new about dentistry. I was selected to work with Dr. Nereyda Clark from the Restorative Dental Science department. For ten weeks, I worked with Dr. Clark in a study designed to evaluate the efficacy of two different methods for teaching head and neck examinations to dental student participants. The ultimate goal of the study was to improve the competence level of dentists and healthcare providers when providing patients with regular oral cancer screenings. It was a great experience to work with Dr. Clark on this project, and I learned a great deal about oral cancer and the importance of early detention. A special thanks to the Office of Research and all the faculty members who put in their time and effort to support the program. For more information about the summer research program visit: http:// www.dental.ufl.edu/Offices/Research/Student-Resources/summerresearch-program.php.
An End to Graduate Subsidized Loans
points embedded in a template letter to forward as communication to Congress. Our organization does not directly hire lobbyists; we utilize the ADA‟s Office of Government Affairs in Washington, D.C. and the collaborative relationships as student members of the ADA.
Do you think we could have done anything more? According to our Office of Governmental Affairs within the ADA, the financial environment in Washington, D.C. is combative and highly tumultuous. This was evident in our congressional conversations regarding NIDCR funding at National Dental Student Lobby Day. This environment has not improved according to ADEA or the ADA Office of Governmental Affairs. Enlisting more student responders through imIt is official. As if the reality of our 15% tuition increase was not enough proved communications would have made our effort look more profound. However, exercising rational political capital in a time when for you to stock up on Ramen Noodles, President Barack Obama signed the Budg- irrational government actions are being agreed upon is beyond tough. et Control Act of 2011 into law August 2, Is the Executive Committee aware that the backbone of our advoca20111. The bill passed in the House by a cy efforts, the SAGE petition, only received 2,654 total signatures, vote of 269-161 and in the Senate 74-26 before being signed into law. It will cost graduate and professional stu- which includes all disciplines and undergraduate students, not just dentistry? dents an estimated $21.7 billion dollars through fiscal year 2021 2. The Of course we would have liked a 100% response! The Executive Comsigning of the law brought an end to months of hard work and effort mittee is currently reviewing from the American Student Dental Association, communication pathways rein addition to numerous other national organizagarding short timeframe issues tions on our behalf. A question many students with the intent to increase effiask is, “Why spend $95 to become a member of ciency and broaden our scale of ASDA?” Not only do members receive delicious action. We need grassroots effood at lunch and learns, social events, vendor forts in situations like this to be fair, and free life and disability insurance, we are as effective as possible and plan also fighting on your behalf at the local, state, to do more to encourage this and national levels to advocate against legislation type of involvement in the fuas costly as the Budget Control Act of 2011. I ture. recently asked this same question, among others, Thank you to the National to the Executive Committee of National ASDA ASDA Executive Committee and want to share exactly was done on behalf of for participating in the interyour $95. The Executive Committee currently view and their hard work consists of our President Adam Shisler, Vice throughout this legislative proPresidents Brittany Bensch and Ken Randall, and cess. Summarized below are the Central Office Staff Nancy Honeycutt. Each confinancial aid provisions relevant to dental students in the Budget Contributed to the responses. trol Act of 20112. What actions did ASDA take to advocate against the Budget Con1. All changes will take effect July 1, 2012. trol Act of 2011? 2. The in-school interest subsidy for graduate and professional stuThe ASDA website was updated to educate our members. Two main dents will be eliminated. courses of action were recommended for ASDA members. The Execu3. The rebate incentive for borrowers who agree to automatic debit tive Committee drafted a template letter to US Congress for students to repayment has been eliminated. Previously this meant an up-front fill out and mail. ASDA signed on to support the Student Advocates for interest rebate of 0.5% of the loan amount applied toward the 1% Graduate Education (SAGE) online petition. We encouraged our memloan origination fee. PLUS loans were previously 1.5% applied bers to sign the petition electronically using several communication towards the 4% origination fee. Borrowers were previously allowed methods including the June edition of Word of Mouth, email to chapter to keep this rebate if they made their first 12 payments on time. leaders, and a post on the ASDA blog Mouthing Off.
Phil Bell, ASDA
Legislative Liaison
How did the Executive Committee generate a plan of action? The Executive Committee coordinated with central office staff daily via emails and weekly via conference calls. The initial plan of action was decided via email and solidified through conference calls. The plan was monitored at the Executive Committee meeting in July. Is the Executive Committee satisfied with the actions ASDA took as a whole? Yes. With our current resources regarding political actions and emerging issues, the Executive Committee was happy to provide speaking
*For more information, visit the sources provided. Should you have additional questions regarding how the Budget Control Act of 2011 will impact your financial aid, contact Tom Kolb in the Office for Student Financial Affairs. 1. http://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/senate-passes-debt-limitbill/2011/08/02/gIQAIp2kpI_story.html 2. http://www.nasfaa.org/advocacy/budget-2012/News/ Debt_Ceiling_Law_Provides_$17_Billion_for_Pell_and_Ends_Gra d_Student_Loan_Interest_Subsidy.aspx
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Summer Learning Program Ivette Landrian
process itself. Not only were we given the opportunity to take a practice DAT exam from Kaplan, but the program also provided reviews on the different sections students normally struggle with. Due to the numerous clinic rotations, students gained an understanding of dental specialties and were even able to assist 3rd and 4th year dental students in team clinics.
The morning of July 11th was the beginning of an enlightening and inspiring journey. Twenty-one students from Florida, Georgia, and New Jersey began their three-week experience at UFCD‟s Summer The final week of the program was an emotional one; by that Learning Program 2011. By the end of the program, it was clear that this point, no one wanted the experience to end. Many dental students took was a life-changing event. time out of their busy schedule to speak to us and answer questions. During the first week, stuThey, as well, volunteered their time dents met with several members of to help during Sim Labs. There were the faculty: Dr. Jackson, who deseveral moments during the program scribed what to expect in her Gross when we met with dentists from the Anatomy class, and Dr. Primosch, community who inspired and encourwho helped us use oral health and aged us to pursue our dreams the way hygiene to help raise awareness to they had. middle and high school students in the CROP program. The highlight of the week, however, was the Sim Lab experience, where Dr. Sposetti and Dr. Notzer taught us about dental anatomy and occlusal waxing; students were able to use hand pieces to drill and learn the challenges that come with working with different dentistry materials.
On the last day, the SLP class tried to demonstrate to the faculty just how much it meant to us through a music video “My Shiny Teeth” which can be seen on you-tube. The best part of the day was when we all got up and expressed how the program had impacted our lives. Some students shared just how convinced they now were about becoming a dentist, while others The second week included clinic rotations, Sim Lab, DAT respoke of their renewed confidence in themselves to pursue this career. views, and the application process. As the program continued, we beMost of all, we all discovered just how important we had become to came aware of just how busy the life of a dental student is. The program each other, and how our friendships would last far beyond the program. organizers made sure that we were always learning and gaining as much experience as possible. A very important part of the program included Personally, I am very grateful to this program. It is an amazing tips provided by members of the Office of Admission on the application opportunity for undergraduate students. Above all, I learned a great deal process. Students were even asked to practice calling a school of interest about myself and my passion for dentistry in those three weeks. and asking questions in a professional manner. Dr. Sposetti opened our Ivette is a junior at UF. Her major is Microbiology and Cell Sciences. eyes to the financial aspect of dental school as well as the application
Las Vegas for the 152nd ADA Annual Session from October 10-13, 2011! The ADA Mark your calendars today for a trip to
Annual Session brings together leaders in dental practice, research, academics and industry to present more than 260 continuing education courses in over four days. This is a perfect chance to combine opportunities for continuing education, networking and the latest developments in dentistry. Continuing education courses will be held Monday, Oct. 10-Thursday, Oct. 13, 2011, at the Mandalay Bay Hotel and Convention Center. The ADA World Marketplace Exhibition will be open Oct. 10-12 with over 600 vendors planned to be in attendance. Reg-
istration is still open so reserve your spot on ADA.org today.
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Firsts for 2013: Boards, White Coats & Patients Christie Eastman, UFCD ASDA Vice President
A
s dental students, we experience many “firsts” together – whether it be our first day of dental school, our first psychomotor, drilling on synthetic teeth for the first time in sim lab, filling our first real tooth in the clinics, or having our first real patient experience. These “firsts” not only help guide us along the path to becoming the best healthcare professionals we can be, but they also help us grow stronger – mentally, emotionally and intellectually – together and individually. This past semester was a busy one and marked the coup de gras of firsts for the members of the University of Florida College of Dentistry Class of 2013. One of our major accomplishments was achieving an outstanding 100% first time pass rate on Part One of the National Board Dental Exam in June. Our passion for this profession is what essentially kept us going and led us through countless months of studying and restless nights. It is through this dedication that we continue to uphold our commitment to “developing and refining our professional conduct via lifelong learning,” as stated in our Class Code of Conduct. Our second “first” was enjoyed on June 24, 2011 when we participated in our Pro-
fessionalism & White Coat Ceremony. This day to remember symbolized our transition to a new phase of our dental training as we enter the clinics and begin caring for patients. The UF Center for the Performing Arts was overflowing with hundreds of proud family members, friends, and college faculty and staff. We enjoyed speeches from Dean Dolan, FDA President Dr. Sabates, and Academy of Alumni & Friends President Dr. Weaver, along with a special presentation from our very own, Huy
ite, delicious cakes baked from scratch and hand decorated by talented members of the Class of 2013 and our loved Sim Lab Manager, Marilyn Vaughn. Our last and most recent “first” has been what we all envisioned since the start of dental school: PATIENTS & CLINICS! As we‟ll all remember during that first week, it was a rollercoaster of emotions. From the lowest in terms of learning patient flow and Axium to the highest in terms of our very first patient
Huynh. Students were introduced by 2013 Faculty Advisor, Dr. Ottenga, and donned with the infamous white coats by Dr. Clark and Dr. Jackson, followed by caring hugs from each. We had the pleasure of listening to the beautiful voices of four of our classmates who sang The University of Florida Alma Mater. After the ceremony, we savored each bite of two exquis-
experience, we will always remember everything about that first appointment. We have each felt the happiness and satisfaction of improving someone else‟s life – finally! Becoming a dentist has lots of obstacles – thousands of which we have met and passed and many more of which have yet to come. With each and every new first, we become stronger and better together. We are Gator dentists and dentists to be! Lets continue this great journey together.
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Event
Equal Access Clinic, Volunteer Opportunity
Activity
Dental Education
Location
UF Family Practice Clinic, Thursdays
Time
5:30 pm to 7:30 pm
Mobile Clinic @ Tower Road Library, Mondays 5:45 pm to 7:45 pm
Site Coordinators
Ali Best, D2, abest@dental.ufl.edu
Danny Kalash, D2, dkalash@dental.ufl.edu
Address
625 Southwest 4th Avenue Gainesville, FL 32601 2 hours
3020 S.W. 75th Street Gainesville, FL 32608
Hours Received
What is Equal Access Clinic (EAC)? EAC is an entirely student run, free clinic, established in 1992. After being in operation for 19 years EAC services include medical, pharmacy, physical therapy, mental health, social work, and other select specialties. EAC serves the underserved populations within Gainesville and Alachua County. What can UFCD do for EAC? EAC dental services are just beginning. Please come be a part of this! Our goal is to get the dental school involved in this well-established, UF, interdisciplinary, outreach opportunity. Dental students will provide dental education to all EAC patients. Dental education also includes, but is not limited to, nutrition and tobacco cessation counseling. Dental students are also essential for identifying patients with acute problems needing immediate attention. This volunteer opportunity allows the dental student to communicate with patients, provide them with valuable infor-
mation regarding their oral health, and practice their patient interviewing skills. Patients are more than grateful, and often very interested to find answers to their oral health questions, given that they have usually not had the opportunity to do so previously. Dental students are an integral part of this education equation. I am a first year and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know enough to provide dental education yet. Yes, you do! Because we are learning to become dental professionals, you tend to know much more about oral health care than you think. And just in case, there will be an information meeting on EAC Dental TBA coaching you on the basics of dental education and how volunteering at EAC works. Please go to http://medinfo.ufl.edu/cgi/signup.cgi to sign up! Sign in with your gatorlink username and password. This volunteer opportunity has been approved by Dr. Micaela Gibbs.
Letter From The Editor There is so much great information in this edition of the newsletter. I encourage all of you to read these articles and see what your peers have to share with you about current events in dentistry, nationally and locally. I thank each and every one of you who wrote articles for this newsletter; without you this newsletter would not be possible. I would also like to thank our own Dr. Susan Nimmo, Dr. John H. Paul from the FDA, Allison Ferris from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, and John Syrbu from University of Iowa College of Dentistry for their contributions. If you are interested in writing for Gator Dentist Times please contact me at cnorton@dental.ufl.edu.
Carolyn A. Norton UFCD ASDA Newsletter Editor, Class of 2014
The publication of this newsletter was made possible by UF Student Government.