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Volume 14, Issue 2 Fall 2020
A look into the modern flossify of the VCU School of Dentistry
This Newsletter is brought to you by the American Student Dental Association at Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry.
vcuasda.com
The Probe The Probe is the ASDA Newsletter of VCU School of Dentistry. Our 2020-21 goals are (1) to highlight moments and people at VCU SOD and (2) to share encouragements, reflections, and information as we pursue excellence in dentistry for our patients.
To submit articles, art, or questions, please contact this year's editor of The Probe at leejj10@vcu.edu.
dean's msg
clubs
about rva
photos
2-4
5-8
15-18
20-22
Message from the Editor
residents
hobbies
23-28
29-39
Happy October and thank you to everyone who contributed to this issue! As a D3 who is just starting in clinic, I'm usually using most of lunch to set up for my PM patient or get other tasks done— but I can also confidently say that I am thankful every day to be learning, working with patients, and meeting more people in our VCU SOD community like our D4s and residents. Things have
definitely
patients,
but
picked
let's
up
speed
remember
to
with set
all
our
aside
classes
time
to
and stay
connected with one another and take care of ourselves (like by not skipping lunch!). I hope this newsletter reminds us to do both as we strive for excellence in dentistry. The winter issue of The Probe will be published Jan/Feb, so
please
me
with
submissions
of
photos
and
reflections from 2020 and your fun winter break so we can read all about it! Jasmine Lee, D2022 The Probe Newsletter Editor
01
The Probe | Fall 2020
WELCOME
OCTOBER 2020
DEAN'S MESSAGE DEAN DAVID C. SARRETT, D.M.D., M.S.
Journey to Safety It’s
hard
months began
to
imagine
ago in
when
where
the
earnest.
we
were
COVID-19
D4s,
DH2s,
seven
pandemic
and
senior
residents were preparing to graduate and begin their careers. D3s, D2s, current DH students, and residents were looking forward to moving ahead in
their
studies
and
clinical
experiences.
But
A
COVID-19
there we were back in March with a new virus
membership
spreading
representing
around
consequences
the
world
except
with
that
unknown
people
were
becoming infected and dying.
school
was
Force
from all
was
created
specialized
aspects
of
the
with areas
school
from
curriculum to clinics Lecture classes were moved to recording and live
Your
Task
concentrating
on
only
one
thing: staying safe. And we still are.
streaming
-
live
classes
were
limited
to
limited or no attendance Externships and study abroad were cancelled Woolwine Lab and in-person simulation were
Reducing the risks
discontinued
Before Virginia went into “lockdown” mode in
Virtual Town Hall meetings were held to share
March
information quickly and accurately
and
leadership
the
school
had
implemented
a
closed
already
risk
its
developed
mitigation
plan.
doors, and
Weeks
of
Assembled university
a
team
experts
to
of
health
assess
clinical
and
preclinical
environments
where
additional infection control measures such as:
continue
as
with
little
education
disruption
as
could
possible.
and
and
careful planning were devoted to creating safe your
environments
our
system
recommend
Provided fit-tested N95 masks and custom
These are just a few examples of our work to
designed face shields
keep you and our patients as safe as possible:
Created new infection control training
Collaborated
with
the
Virginia
Dental
Added barriers to limit aerosol spread
Association ahead of the Governor to call
Use of ultrasonic scalers was temporarily
for ceasing elective dental care at the start
suspended
of the pandemic
COVID-19 screening was implemented
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02
Surface cleaning in public and clinical areas was intensified and adjusted as knowledge of the virus’ spread became more informed Placed HEPA/UV light air filters in clinics University, state and federal guidelines, and American Dental Association and Virginia Dental Association guidelines were applied, but dentistry proved to be a unique situation to those outside of our profession. Even among the MCV Campus.
Strength in skills and experience Your VCU School of Dentistry is one of only 10 dental schools in the country within a comprehensive academic medical center. This strength is one of the keys to our success. On April 28 a specialized team from VCU and VCU Health visited the school and its clinics to help craft a plan to reopen safely. It was no small feat. And in the words of Dr. Clara Spatafore, chair of the Department of Endodontics, this work “was nothing short of herculean.”
The 15+ member team included experts from infectious diseases, facilities management, environmental health and safety, student health, and employee health The team toured all of our buildings, clinical areas and gathering places. Scenarios were presented and problem-solving happened on the spot. As we knew then and now, proper hand hygiene, the use of face masks, and social distancing all play a concerted, crucial role in slowing the spread of
COVID-19.
What
about
aerosols?
Special
considerations
and
recommendations were made for students, faculty, staff and patients who were, and still are, exposed to one of the most dangerous environments for COVID-19 transmission: aerosol generation.
From April to late May, when clinics reopened, school teams worked around the clock to make adjustments for social distancing, design special face shields (created especially for dentists and dental hygienists), procure PPE, install protective barriers to minimize exposure to aerosols, and ensure your safe
return
to
school.
Thanks
to
this
“dream
team”
of
highly-skilled
professionals and the dedication of school leadership and staff, you can take comfort in knowing that the VCU School of Dentistry is one of the few dental schools in the country able to graduate its May students. Almost on time.
In fact, because of these “herculean efforts” shared by the entire school, our students are now participating in comprehensive, non-emergency patient care;
emergency
patient
care;
classroom
and
seminar
learning;
and
simulation clinic learning. This is significant because less than half - only 44% -
of dental schools reported this level of student participation in a recent
informal poll of ADEA deans.
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The Probe | Fall 2020
WELCOME
OCTOBER 2020
A remarkable collective effort I am proud of your flexibility and willingness to stay the course on this journey into a new world of learning and patient care. Your efforts and those of our staff and faculty have not gone unnoticed. Dr. Peter Buckley, dean of the VCU School of Medicine and interim CEO of VCU Health, participated in a recent VCU Board of Visitors meeting and had this to say:
Dentistry has been one of the most challenging spaces by nature of its practice, but also on the forefront of creating safety for clinical experience and simulations, and serving as a model for other areas of the health sciences and VCU overall. The return of students could not have gone better! This is a tremendous vote of confidence and made real to our Board of Visitors and to the many important leaders listening during that session the amazing work that your students, faculty, and staff have accomplished. It’s notable that faculty and
but it’s really the professionalism of our health sciences students that have made it all work. The commitment, patience, and perseverance of our staff can prepare and create a safe environment,
health sciences professional students was matched by their resilience and true collaborative spirit, thereby enabling the successful return to clinical training on the MCV Campus.
We are immensely proud of our junior colleagues.
Please
thank
your
students,
your
faculty
and
your
staff
for
a
remarkable collective effort and, of course, thank you also for your leadership during this unprecedented time.
With every good wish, Peter
While there are many unknowns ahead, the School of Dentistry continues to remain proactive in keeping students, patients, faculty and staff safe while remaining true to our core mission of education and clinical excellence.
My final words to you are critical in order to maintain our safety success:
not become complacent. have
learned
and
are
do
Be diligent as you follow the safety measures we
applying.
Remember:
these
safety
measures
will
continue to evolve and you need to stay current. If you see something that does not seem right, say something or ask someone to intervene.
We are all only as safe as we make each other.
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04
Photo by VCU University Marketing
RELENTLESS DETERMINATION TO MAKE THIS YOUR BEST YEAR OF DENTAL SCHOOL YET! BY BRETT SIEGEL, D2 Welcome back to school everyone, my name is Brett Siegel, a D2 serving as the President Elect of VCU’s ASDA. This year is far from normal. It seems there are more hurdles than usual, but that does not mean we can’t make this year great! My questions
to
you:
what's
your
plan
to
overcome this adversity? What are you willing to do to fight for the things you want out of dental school? This question looks different for all of us here at VCU and you might not have the answer to all these problems, but I am here to remind you of the organizations and
people
that
can
help
you.
I
want
to
encourage you all to get out of your comfort
COVID-19. I want you all to know I will continue to
zone in this uncomfortable time to reach out
make
to faculty, organizations, and peers to stay
ASDA’s
connected in the community at VCU School
productive way possible. My hope for you all is once
of Dentistry. I believe this will allow you to be
you
more
through an unprecedented year, you can tell yourself,
successful
continuing
to
in
build
achieving
your
community
goals,
within
the
sure
VCU’s
chapter
have
is
administration helping
accomplished
us
your
along
along
goals
with
VCU
the
most
in
and
made
it
This change in circumstance did not dictate my
"
school, and making VCU a great place to
future. Due to my dedication and commitment
achieve
VCU’s
level, when adversity struck I was able to
ASDA chapter, I along with many others are
embrace this challenge, and we were able to
looking
trample over the adversity all together as a
your
dreams.
forward
to
On
find
behalf
great
of
ways
to
enhance our dental school experience during
05
The Probe | Fall 2020
student body." I wish you all the best and Go Rams!
WELCOME
2020
OCTOBER 2020
JOIN A CLUB!
2021
Here is a list of club organizations at VCU SOD and their presidents. You can also find this year's "Virtual Club Fair" in your email inbox. If you are curious about any of them, don't hesitate to contact the leaders! Their email should autopopulate, but if it does not you can contact any of the ASDA executive leaders to get you connected.
American Dental Education Association (ADEA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Aaron Miller Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Florence Dangtran American Association for Women Dentists (AAWD) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nidhi Patel American Association of Public Health Dentistry (AAPHD) . . . Agnieszka Roman Cosmetic and Aesthetic Dentistry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jessica Gill Delta Sigma Delta (DSD) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Paul Kaneshiro Hispanic Student Dental Association (HSDA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Paula Garcia Ortho Study Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nakysa Kheirandish Periodontal Discussion League (PDL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Deji Amoo Psi Omega . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Payton Cook Student Chapter of the American Dental Hygiene Association (SCADHA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jessi Reidburr Special Care Interest Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sungmin Sohn Student National Dental Association (SNDA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Brionna Anthony Student Research Group (SRG) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Maria Jividen Toothwigglers Pediatric Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Joshua Cardinal VCU Military Dental Student Association . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Andrew Horbaly
VCU SOD Class of 2021 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Neeko Felten VCU SOD Class of 2022 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kristen Richey VCU SOD Class of 2023 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Josh McCoy VCU SOD Class of 2024 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sierra Suarez-Friend VCU DH Class of 2021 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Emily Deker VCU DH Class of 2022 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Haley Headley
The Probe | Fall 2020
06
More about
ASDA At VCU SOD, ASDA (American Student Dental Association) also functions as our SGC (Student Government Committee).
President: Becky Cerva President Elect: Brett Siegel Vice President: Jacob Mirpanah Secretary: Nital Patel Treasurer: Nidhi Patel Legislative Liaison: Matilda Sullivan Webmaster: TJ Winkler Newsletter Editor: Jasmine Lee
07
The Probe | Fall 2020
VCU ASDA
OCTOBER 2020
fun facts about our exec Can you guess who said what for their fun fact? I love going on meditation retreats whenever I can! I've gone on 9 different ones so far.
I am slightly scared of heights but would go sky-diving tomorrow if you asked me to.
I used to write and produce my own songs and music videos on YouTube!
I was awarded most handsome by GQ magazine.
I got married this summer and I'm a twin!
I was a choreographer for the Salsa Club at UVA.
I played Division 1AA football at James Madison University.
I began alpine mountaineering with my dad at age 12 and have had the privilege to climb some pretty incredible mountains.
To check your answers, continued on to page 11-14 with interviews and photos provided by Clairise Cash, D3, the 2019-20 ASDA Historian!
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08
DENTAL SCHOOL WITH BENEFITS
Article by Rafy Luqa, D3, ASDA Benefits Chair
Did you know that ASDA offers several benefits to its members at
no cost? Many students are not aware of these benefits and are not taking advantage of them. Details of all the offered benefits are available on the ASDA website, but I hope that this article will give you insight into the free benefits available to you. These benefits are divided
financial, career and educational resources, and publications. into three categories:
09
The Probe | Fall 2020
VCU ASDA
OCTOBER 2020
The financial benefits and savings include disability insurance, life insurance, automobile insurance, malpractice insurance for board exams and externships, malpractice insurance for new dentists, and office depot. The disability insurance, issued by
MedPro Group offers Malpractice Insurance for board exams and externships as well as for new dentists. The coverage for board
Great-West-Financial,
ASDA
coverage for a new dentist is offered
members at no cost during dental school and
with a discount for ASDA members. This
residency.
coverage is national so you can move
The
is
offered
coverage
includes
to
$2,000
a
exams and externships is free for up to 60
total
non-consecutive
month for up to seven years to help pay living
anywhere
expenses during a period of disability due to
interruptions
injury
addition
or
illness,
in
addition
to
up
to
$2,000
in
the
to
U.S.
to
your
the
life,
days,
while
without
any
coverage.
In
disability,
and
monthly (up to $150,000 total) to help repay
malpractice insurances, ASDA members
student loans if the student becomes disabled.
can
This
no-cost
coverage
continues
through
December 31st of the year you graduate, after which
you
disability
may
convert
coverage
your
to
an
student
member
ADA
disability
a discount off GEICO’s auto insurance rates and up to 75% discounts at Office Depot and OfficeMax. also
receive
insurance plan available for ADA members at
In
addition
competitive rates.
benefits, ASDA provides students with print
Term life insurance is also issued by GreatWest Financial at no-cost to ASDA members during dental school and residency. Coverage insurance
includes and
$50,000
$50,000
of
of
Term
Accidental
to
and
these
many
electronic
financial
publications,
the only print news source dedicated solely to sharing the dental student narrative. And including Contour,
Life
finally, ASDA members are set up for
Death
successful transition into the workforce
$100,000 on July 1st of the graduation year. The
post-graduation resources offered through Career Compass.
coverage continues through December 31st of
Career
the year your graduate and then you’ll have the
guidance
option to keep your life insurance by paying the
through many outlets such as webinars,
premium
offered
to
Words
attending
school,
you
Insurance,
and
both
coverages
ADA can
double
members. request
to
While
additional
with their
helping
Compass for
of
students
experiences
spouse
opportunities.
and
pay
low
rates
available
for
ADA
graduating
Wisdom
coverage up to $500,000 for yourself or your
provides
video set
and
up
career students
series,
and
shadowing externship
members.
Don’t let these benefits go to waste! The
various insurances and resources offered
by ASDA will help you in life’s unpredictable moments and provide the financial security
and
real-world
knowledge
needed
to
progress
from
student
life
to
professional life.
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10
Becky Cerva - President Hometown: Oak Hill, VA | Undergrad: CNU One word to describe yourself: Feisty Hobbies: Watching sports, playing guitar, working out, and knitting Favorite parts of dental school: Visiting the food trucks during the lunch hour
Why did you decide to get involved in ASDA? I wanted to have to have opportunity to advocate for
I got married this summer and I'm a twin!
both my fellow students and the future of my profession. Now, more than ever it is important for dental students to get involved in organized dentistry and have our voices heard. No one understands the issues we face better than we do: student debt, shifts in healthcare politics, licensure reform, etc. We truly do have power in numbers.
What's one thing you wish more people at our school knew about ASDA? I wish that everyone knew that they were a member of ASDA and that there are TONS of ways to get involved!
Brett Siegel - President Elect Hometown: Leesburg, VA | Undergrad: JMU One word to describe yourself: Affable Hobbies: Staying fit, adventuring, and socializing with family and friends Favorite part of dental school: The people
Why did you decide to get involved in ASDA? My passion for student run organizations: for the students and by the students. I am thrilled about protecting and advancing the rights, interests and welfare of dental students. I can get behind that. That is why I joined ASDA.
What's one thing you wish more people at our school knew about ASDA? They have our back.
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I played Division 1AA football at James Madison University
VCU ASDA
OCTOBER 2020
Jacob Mirpanah - Vice President Hometown: Ashburn, VA | Undergrad: UVA One word to describe yourself: Optimistic Favorite part of dental school: The people. We learn to lean on each other to move forward; everyone's willingness to work together towards a common goal is a constant reminder that I
I was a choreographer for the Salsa Club at UVA.
am in the right place.
Why did you decide to get involved in ASDA? E.B. White said it best with "I arise in the morning torn between a desire to improve the world and a desire to enjoy the world." As much as I have enjoyed this dental school experience, there are changes I would like to help effect to make it even better.
What's one thing you wish more people at our school knew about ASDA? The connections that active involvement in ASDA make possible. Through ASDA I have had the opportunity to serve as a voting member of the VDA, met and connected with countless students from other schools and even had the chance to speak at length with Dr. Gahani, the president of the ADA.
Nital Patel - Secretary Hometown: Richmond, VA | Undergrad: UVA One word to describe yourself: Dependable Hobbies: Painting, running, cooking, binge watching Netflix shows, quarantining Favorite parts of dental school: I love the support between the students/faculty. It's nice that we are all in the same environment and understand each others excitement and love of teeth! (and each other's pain of dental school in general)
I am slightly scared of heights but would go sky-diving tomorrow if you asked me to
What are you most excited for as an exec member this year? I think exec this year is an amazing group of people and I'm most excited to get to know everyone and their strengths!!
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12
Nidhi Patel - Treasurer Hometown: Woodbridge, VA | Undergrad: VCU One word to describe yourself: Optimistic Hobbies: I enjoy watching movies and TV shows, reading, and exploring different coffee shops and restaurants in Richmond.
I love going on meditation retreats whenever I can! I've gone on 9 different ones so far.
Favorite parts of dental school: My favorite part of dental school would definitely be the people. I have met so many kind and wonderful people here. All of the staff, students and faculty are incredibly supportive and make this whole experience worthwhile!
Why did you decide to get involved in ASDA? I believe that ASDA is a wonderful opportunity to meet and connect with people that I wouldn't normally get the chance to interact with. I have always wanted to contribute to our school and I felt like being a part of ASDA is a great way to do so!
Mattie Sullivan - Legislative Liaison Hometown: Lynchburg, VA | Undergrad: UVA One word to describe yourself: Child-at-heart Favorite parts of dental school: Our class has been so collaborative and uplifting of each other and it really keeps me going when the going gets tough. I have had wonderful patient interactions so far in dental school and I can't wait to transition into clinic because that's what dentistry is all about.
Why did you decide to get involved in ASDA? I actually became interested in ASDA through VDA Lobby Day. Multiple dentists that day told me how important it is to be involved in lobbying to promote the voice of dental students and the profession at a state and national level. Becoming involved in ASDA was a clear next step towards advocating for dental student representation in dental legislation changes.
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I began alpine mountaineering with my dad at age 12 and have had the privilege to climb some pretty incredible mountains.
VCU ASDA
OCTOBER 2020
TJ Winkler - Webmaster Hometown: Midlothian, VA | Undergrad: VT One word to describe yourself: Jackhammer Hobbies: Video games, movies, fitness Favorite parts of dental school: Dr. Janus
Why did you decide to get involved in ASDA?
I was awarded most handsome by GQ magazine.
I went to ASDA's National Leadership Conference in undergrad and enjoyed it, and I wanted to participate in dental school as well.
Jasmine Lee - Newsletter Editor Hometown: Burke, VA | Undergrad: Rice One word to describe yourself: Creative Fun fact: I was 23 when I got married! Hobbies: Song-writing, making videos Favorite quarantine activities: Catching up on drawing, reading, writing, and sleeping
Why did you decide to get involved in ASDA?
I used to write and produce my own songs and music videos on YouTube!
I was asked to because there was a need.
What are you most excited for as an exec member this year? I hope to put together a newsletter that people will actually be excited to get in their inboxes!
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14
Get to Know RVA with Jennifer Ahn, D3
D1s, welcome to Richmond, your new home for the next 4 years!
As a Richmond native, I have been tasked with the important job of sharing some of my favorite things to do in the city. I say important because it is essential that you
make
time
for
fun
and
relaxation
in
dental school. Luckily, Richmond has so much to offer. (Note: some of these places may
be
closed
or
have
restrictions
due
to
COVID-19, so check out their website or call beforehand.)
On Saturdays, if the weather is nice, I love
South of the James Farmer’s Market. It has been named one going
to
the
of the “Top 10 Best Farmer’s Markets in the U.S.”
by
USA
Today!
Over
100
vendors
participate in this market. Local farmers and
artisans
offer
an
eclectic
mix
of
items: fresh produce, flowers, jewelry, art, baked
goods,
handmade
skincare
products, and so much more. The market is family- and dog-friendly with live music and a variety of food trucks that are sure to please your appetite. I would remiss if I did
not
mention
Mrs.
Yoder’s
famous
donuts, which people know to get there early for to beat the long line.
15
The Probe | Fall 2020
VCU ASDA
OCTOBER 2020
James River with some friends. You can wade in the water at Belle Isle, get your tan on on the rocks at Texas Beach, or even tube down Pony Pasture with a group. Another outdoor activity is to walk, run, or bike the Virginia Capital Trail, a 52-mile-long fully-paved trail that runs all the way from Richmond to Jamestown. If I’m feeling outdoors-y, I might head to the
Haunted
A unique activity that I recommend every Richmond-er do at least once is go on a
Walking Tour.
I did a tour of Shockoe Bottom through a company called Eerie Nights Ghost
Tours. The tour was indeed spooky, and surprisingly, it was a great way to learn more about the city’s history. The last stop of my haunted tour happened to be right outside of my apartment building, but fortunately I haven’t seen any ghosts yet!
As far as night life goes, my all-time favorite thing to do is see live music at
The National,
a
historic concert venue located on Broad Street. There are 3 things that I love about The National: 1) they bring in artists of all genres, both big and small; 2) the venue is big enough to give you personal space,
but
small
enough to where it
still
intimate; their
feels and
3)
sound
system is insanely good. nightlife
Other options
include gathering on
the
lawn
at
Virginia Fine Arts Museum the
and
exploring
The Fan Downtown.
and
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16
If you’re looking for food and drink options,
Scott’s Addition is a good place to start. Once a bustling industrial area, Scott’s Addition is now Richmond’s fastest growing neighborhood with nationally recognized restaurants, over 13 breweries, cideries, rooftop lounges, and “barcades” (bararcades), where you can eat, drink, and play games.
Speaking of food, Richmond has climbed
Coffee:
its
Ironclad,
way
up
destination
to lists,
the so
top it
is
of
many
only
fair
food that
I
Blanchard’s,
Brewer’s
Sefton,
Café,
Roastology,
Lamplighter, Alchemy, Black Hand, Lift
mention some of my favorite eats. It was hard to narrow it down, but here are a few:
Savory: Thai),
The
Mi
(Greek),
Patio
Jalisco
Edo’s
and
Sabai
(Mexican),
Squid
(Italian),
(both
weekend. Lucky for us, you can drive 2 hours
Stella’s
in any direction, and you’ll be in another city
Lemon
that is entirely different from here. There is
(Indian), Pho So 1 (Vietnamese), Addis
Charlottesville
(Ethiopian),
vineyards,
LuLu’s
(brunch),
ZZQ
(barbecue)
Sweet:
and
(think apple
hikes,
Gelati
Celesti
(gelato),
Virginia Washington, DC. Also,
on
Carter
Beach,
and
if
Busch
Gardens and Kings Dominion are both less
The Probe | Fall 2020
cream),
Sub
than an hour away.
am,
an
Pie,
(ice
I
are
amusement
School
like
you
Shyndigz (cake, baked goods), Proper Charm
park-lover
picturesque
picking
Mountain),
Rosa Bakery (pastries)
17
Say you want to get out of Richmond for the
VCU ASDA
OCTOBER 2020
Lastly, I want to mention
The Richmond Experience,
which posts about the city’s newest
local restaurants and businesses and upcoming events, such as the
Carytown Watermelon (@therichmondexperience)
Festival.
You
can
follow
Folk Festival
them
on
and
and/or subscribe to their newsletter to stay up to date about
what’s happening in Richmond!
Health & Wellness By Erin Britt and Julia Cove, D3s
"One of the best parts of being co-chairs for ASDA health and wellness is being able to plan these events and share with the rest of the school!" Staying healthy and well during dental school is extremely important and sometimes not as easy to do as you might think. This is why we wanted to serve as ASDA’s Health and Wellness co-chairs! We originally connected in dental school for our love of running, and found ourselves running together many days during the school week to stay active and relieve stress. We couldn’t think of anything more fit for us than serving as co-chairs for ASDA health and wellness. Not only do we love running, but we find it crucial to stay
healthy
in
many
different
ways,
whether it be through yoga, meditation, eating
healthy,
or
hosting
a
lunch
and
learn related to health and wellness.
Last year, we were so excited to kick
off being the health and wellness chairs by putting together different events for health and wellness month in September! These events included a step challenge where
students
throughout getting
Boho Studio Cycle Class
a
the prize,
could
track
month
with
a
yoga
their the
class,
steps winner
a
cycle
class at Boho Cycle, and a
The Probe | Fall 2020
18
lunch and learn with a registered dietician. We look
forward
wellness the
month
year,
catered
to
we
to
another this
try
exciting
September. to
different
host
health
Throughout
different
aspects
of
and
events
health
and
wellness because they are all so important. Below are some pictures of some of the different events we hosted last year, including mindfulness yoga with our very own D3 yoga instructor
and
the
cycle
studio
event
we
hosted. It is always uplifting to see the turnout at these events from dental students, as you can see below. One of the best parts of being co-chairs
for
ASDA
health
and
wellness
is
being able to plan these events and share with the rest of the school! Please don’t hesitate to contact us, Julia Cove and Erin Britt, for any ideas
or
events
you
may
have
to
Erin Britt (left), Alley Stefanovski (D3, yoga instructor), and Julia Cove (right)
promote
health and wellness. Stay healthy!
This year's Health and Wellness Month is October! Check your email inbox for info about our annual step challenge. Prizes will be awarded to the top three finishers!
Mindfulness yoga turnout!
19
The Probe | Fall 2020
RESIDENT SPOTLIGHT Our summer issue kicked off the school year with a fun Q&A from our predoc GPGs. This fall issue features a few of our residents from VCU SOD. Let's hear more about them!
Featuring orthodontics residents Dr. Nicholas Lynch, Dr. Mason Bates, and Dr. Tonya Spangler as well as periodontics residents Dr. Michael Ha and Dr. William Porzio
Interviews by Jasmine Lee
23
The Probe | Fall 2020
RESIDENT SPOTLIGHT
OCTOBER 2020
Dr. Nick Lynch ORTHODONTICS, 2022 (1ST YEAR) INDIANA UNIVERSITY
Fun fact: Throughout undergrad and dental school, I spent a total of nearly 20 months outside the US traveling to 24 foreign countries. In other words, COVID is seriously caging up the backpacker in me.
What's the coolest thing you've been up to in your program? The best part about ortho residency so far has been all of the cool technology, like intraoral scanners, aligners, 3D printing, and CBCTs. It's much more exciting to be using modern tools of the trade, especially compared to dental school where we only rarely got to play with all the fancy, high-tech toys.
What is your favorite part of the specialty? Orthodontics really just suits my personality well on multiple levels. Generally speaking, I love how every case is a puzzle. From a more personal perspective, though, it's just such a positive, happy specialty. People are so excited to fix their smiles and everybody loves to celebrate a nice, esthetic result.
Any advice for dental students? If you could go back in time what would you tell yourself? Oh man... So many things to learn from hindsight! For starters, enjoy dental school while it lasts. Looking back now, I already miss the experiences and friends, especially since COVID ended things prematurely for me. On a different note, I'd strongly encourage you to shift your mentality to that of a private practice doctor who's solely responsible for your patients. Take charge of your education, actively seek out new ways to improve, don't wait for your faculty to spoon-feed you, and take true ownership of your patients' care. It all goes back to "practicing how you play" so that you're ready to run on the day you graduate. On a less philosophical and more practical note, network like crazy. You're going to be looking for a job before you know it, and your relationships will be essential to finding the right opportunity.
25
The Probe | Fall 2020
Dr. Mason Bates ORTHODONTICS 2021 THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS SCHOOL OF DENTISTRY AT HOUSTON
Any advice for dental students?
1) You will get out of dental school what you put into it. Maintain balance and don't let dental school consume you, but apply yourself and learn as much as you possibly can while you're there. 2) We are so privileged to have the trust of our patients, so steward that privilege well by practicing with integrity and putting your patients first. The requirements (and finances in the future) will take care of themselves if you measure your success by how well you serve your patients.
Some of my favorite moments so far, in my short career, have been mission trips where I've been able to use my skills to help others in need for nothing more than a smile in return. You've all got an amazing future ahead of you. Don't ever
Fun fact: I took a year off prior to dental school living/working in Costa Rica and working as a lift operator at Winter Park Ski Resort for the second half.
lose sight of why you started this journey: to help people.
The Probe | Fall 2020
24
RESIDENT SPOTLIGHT
OCTOBER 2020
Dr. Tonya Spangler ORTHODONTICS, 2022 VCU DENTAL, CLASS OF 2020 Fun fact: I was a veterinary technician for 9 years before
What's the coolest thing you've been up to in your program?
dental school, so I LOVE
Getting to be a part of treatment
animals!
planning for craniofacial patients.
Hobbies: Spending time
Any advice for dental students? If you could go back in time what would you tell yourself?
exploring with my pup and recently learning to sew.
Don't stress, enjoy the ride, and take advantage of everyone you can learn from!
The Probe | Fall 2020
26
Dr. Michael Ha 2ND YEAR PERIODONTICS OREGON HEALTH SCIENCES UNIVERSITY
What's the coolest thing you've been up to in your program? The coolest thing about being in the graduate periodontics department is being able to pick the brains of so many amazing periodontists on how they complete soft and hard tissue procedures and being able to implement those advanced techniques
Fun fact: I am the gypsy of my
in the foundational surgical procedures
family. Ever since I moved out
I complete. There are so many nuances
of LA at 18 I've been moving
in flap management, harvesting tissue,
around the west coast, with
and implant placement that each day
residency allowing me to
feels like a completely new procedure
explore the east coast for the
with different outcomes.
first time.
city I've come to learn how
Any advice for dental students? If you could go back in time what would you tell yourself?
important it is for me to take
You are in charge of your own
time to get away from the city
education.Take advantage of all the
and to explore the forests and
classes and lunch & learns you are able
mountains. I want to eventually
to attend. Dental knowledge and
explore every national park in
techniques are hard-fought and will
the USA in my lifetime.
come in handy even as a specialist.
Hobbies: Coming from a big
27
The Probe | Fall 2020
RESIDENT SPOTLIGHT
OCTOBER 2020
Dr. William Porzio PERIO 1ST YEAR OREGON HEALTH SCIENCES UNIVERSITY What is your favorite part of the specialty? I’ve just started treating my first surgical cases which has been an amazing experience. Coming straight out of dental school I had very little experience with managing soft tissue so finally getting a scalpel into my hands has been both fun and a humbling learning experience. There are so many aspects of perio that interest me and encouraged me to commit to it as a specialty but when it comes down to it, I chose the field because of what we get to do with our hands. As a specialty, I feel like we are the most in tune with truly healing a patient and restoring them to a
Fun fact: I’m obsessed with people (and dog) watching and love hanging out on my balcony in the Fan silently judging all my neighbors but not in the bad way.
state of oral health.
Any advice for dental students? My best piece of advice for students would be to never stop fighting to improve the student experience at VCU. Organize yourselves and demand change where you think improvements can be made. Challenge the way that things have been
Hobbies: I'm obsessed with sci-fi/fantasy novels and cannot get enough of Brandon Sanderson’s novels.
done and think of ways to innovate. Dentistry is a field that is constantly evolving and changing and the dental school experience should reflect that flexibility. The Probe | Fall 2020
28
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT HOBBY EDITION Featuring Tuan Le on photography, Nidhi Patel on Korean dramas, and Jasmine Lee on digital art
29
The Probe | Fall 2020
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
OCTOBER 2020
Photography quite
expensive,
can
so
if
be you
are looking to pursue it as a hobby
there
are
several
ways to minimize the cost. Camera
phones
nowadays
are well equipped to take high
quality
are
photos.
There
many
types
of
photography
ranging
from
landscape,
portrait,
aerial,
travel, and wildlife to name a
few.
Practice
taking
pictures with a phone can help you gauge in on what type
of
photography
you
appreciate the most. Eventually, you may want to purchase a camera. There are many different types of cameras out there with various functions. Looking at product reviews on YouTube is an ideal way to start and to narrow down your brand and selections. I would search for a used one either
off
craigslist
or
marketplace.
Of
course,
you
need
a
camera
lens
and
sometimes they can be more expensive than the camera itself. With so many different lenses out there suited for different types of photography it is difficult to choose from. They are measured in focal lengths sometimes as low as 10mm up to 300mm. Some are fixed focal lenses, and some can zoom. Zoom lenses cover a wide range of focal lengths, which in turn can be better for a wider range for the type of photographs you want to take. Aperture, shutter speed, and ISO are all common,
but
concepts
in
photography. time
the
field
Again,
watching
YouTube
important
can
of
spending
videos
on
help
you
understand these concepts. In
the
incorporate
future
I
wish
photography
to
and
dentistry in a creative way and being
to
educate
share
pictures
pre-dental
to
students,
colleagues, and patients.
The Probe | Fall 2020
32
Korean Dramas
“Once you overcome the 1-
to understand the plot and
inch-tall
dialogue.
barrier
of
subtitles,
you will be introduced to so many said
more
amazing
Director
Bong
Since
I
became
very
films,�
interested in Korean culture
Joon-Ho
after the movie, I started a
when he accepted the Best
Korean
Foreign Language Film at the
my classmates. We watched
Golden
a few episodes of my first
Globes.
Once
I
drama
two
heard this speech, I was so
ever
by Nidhi Patel, D3
interested
Girl Bong-Soon. I was totally
what
the
Parasite
theaters, amazed story
craze
was
watched
about.
the I by
and
discovering
was the
The Probe | Fall 2020
Strong
around
hooked onto the show and
After
I
ended up quickly finishing it.
in
And after that I found myself
movie
completely incredible
cinematography,
and how easy it was for me
33
drama,
of
Article and recommendations
in
Korean
with
watching
more
and
more
shows, and have seen over 20 since February!
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
OCTOBER 2020
"I have really learned to appreciate other cultures and languages more, which I believe as future healthcare providers it’s really important for us to try and connect with people with backgrounds completely different than our own." Korean
Dramas
are
a
great
way
to
discover a whole new culture that many of us have never really experienced before. While some societal aspects are exaggerated, they still allow viewers to learn about the customs and traditions of South Korean culture. One thing
I
quickly
picked
up
on
is
that
South
Korean society is generally more conservative than Western ones, which explains why there is rarely any rated R content in the shows. Also, it’s very interesting to see how kdramas usually focus on the families around the main characters, which is something that isn’t as common in American TV shows. The closest thing to Korean dramas that many of us have heard of are telenovelas, as they both have many
twists
sometimes though
I
and
over
did
find
turns, the the
top
cliffhangers storylines.
many
and Even
differences
at
first, I learned to appreciate the shows for what they are, and have started to love them just as much as other American shows I’ve seen. One of the benefits of Kdramas are that they only have one season with usually 16 episodes, which have a definitive beginning and end. Since most Western shows have multiple seasons spanning over several years, sometimes the quality of the show doesn’t remind the same throughout. However, Kdramas are usually finish in eight weeks, which makes it more enjoyable to watch, especially for people who like to binge watch shows. Another distinct feature is that the production and cinematography of majority of the shows are carefully crafted, making the quality of the shows much better. Almost every show that I have seen is equivalent to the
The Probe | Fall 2020
34
experience that I have watching a top tier Netflix or HBO production. Perhaps one of the biggest differences that I noticed was that every Korean drama has its own original soundtrack
and
score.
Many
of
these
soundtracks are often the best parts of the show, and become huge hits too. Even though our schedules are often packed
with
exams,
practicals
and
busy
clinic days, I have found that Korean Dramas have really helped me destress. I always look forward to watching the next episode, or even starting a new show. Like any hobby, kdramas
help
relaxed
and
learned
to
me
become
more
happy,
engaged.
Also,
I
have
really
appreciate
other
cultures
Best ones to start off with:
Crash
Landing
Class,
on
You,
Itaewon
Goblin, Descendants of the Sun
and
languages more, which I believe as future healthcare providers it’s really important for
If you like action or thrillers:
us
Kingdom, Vagabond, Tunnel, Signal
to
try
and
connect
with
people
with
backgrounds completely different than our own. Watching Korean shows has also made me more willing to try and watch movies and shows
from
other
countries,
which
I
most
If you like dramas: Monarch,
When
King
Camellia
Eternal Blooms,
Legend of the Blue Sea, Hotel Del
likely wouldn’t have done before. Overall, I think that breaking out of your comfort zone
Luna
with any activity or hobby is a great way to grow
as
an
individual
and
experience
something new and amazing! If
you
have
any
interest
in
Best
Picture
definitely interested would
award
worth in
Parasite!
at
the
watching.
watching
recommend
a
using
if
Korean Netflix
and
you
are
drama, or
is
Viki,
I
have lots of shows you can easily watch. are
so
many
amazing
dramas,
but
there are a few that I would recommend to someone who just starting off!
35
The Probe | Fall 2020
The
Chicago
Typewriter,
Last Empress, Scarlet Heart Ryeo
If you want something unique and original: Search WWW, It’s Okay To Not Be Okay, Sky Castle
a
free online streaming service, as they both
There
Sunshine,
It won the
Oscars, And
Mr.
possibly
watching a Korean drama or movie, I would first suggest watching
If you like historical stories:
I hope that some of you are interested in watching one of these Korean dramas. Have fun!
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
OCTOBER 2020
Heart and Hands for Dentistry
that had previously brought me happiness to "save" my hands for dentistry. And why did so many of the ways I could express care for my loved ones require my hands? No more playing instruments while singing, no more drawing,
Illustrations and article by Jasmine Lee, D3
limit handwriting notes, massages,
limit
limit giving my family
cooking.
Hand
pain
and
therefore stress plagued me whatever I did. I “Hmm...” I’m sitting in clinic evaluating a patient’s
defective
restoration
when
the
had a love-hate relationship with dentistry.
D4,
But through the ups and downs I found
who is kindly assisting me, points at my hands.
comfort
“You should wear the small size gloves.” The
could understand the stress of being a dental
light from my loupes swing from the teeth to my
student. I fondly remember weekends when a
oversized gloves. “These are the small gloves,” I
group of our D1 girlfriends would take turns
reply.
hosting a movie night in our apartments—one
We
before
both
pause
chuckling
shoulders
for
the
to
and
stare
at
peeking
missing
box
of
my
hands
over extra
in
my
fellow
dental
students
who
our
night we even watched a live musical at Altria
small
Theater! I'm also thankful for when some of
gloves.
the Korean students would gather together at
My hands are definitely on the small side
an upperclassman’s home, eat good food, talk
especially for my height, but they’ve also served
about
school,
me well over the years. From playing violin in
about
school,
orchestra, pit, and even a mariachi band to
(which, by the way, meant we were still talking
doodling
about
and
journaling
to
strumming
guitar as I write original songs to
the
play
school),
some
share
and
games,
some
enjoy
of
the
talk
our
more
worries
weekend.
We
woodworking
joked that we couldn’t go 5 minutes without
for sculptures, they’ve always brought me joy.
talking about school. Of course we tried but
Like many other dental students, part of the
we
reason
dental
I
chose
dentistry
was
because
I
like
making art with my hands.
resist—this
student!
is
There’s
just
the
life
something
of
a
healing
about times like these where we learn, laugh,
I never suspected that I would start having pain in my hands at the end of the first week of D1 year as we started DentSim.
couldn’t
and
complain
together,
the
third
in
moderation, of course.
The first week.
My hand pain crisis also made me really
How could I have known that the pain would
evaluate what dentistry means to me. I may
linger all throughout D2 year as well and into
not have signed up for the hand pain, but did I
D3 year? At the worst point I remember the
want to persevere to heal and become the
irony as my hands ached even while brushing
dentist I thought I wanted to be? How can my
my
me
life best be used, and where does dentistry fit
several nights at the start of each semester
in it? The lesson I learned from my first two
about whether I had chosen the wrong field
years is perseverance. The hand pain had to
and whether I could bear the burden of the
be
loans for dental school. It also deeply hurt me
mentality that needed to be addressed. I had
that so many things I valued required my hands
to
—I felt like I had to sacrifice all of my hobbies
stop fearing the risks and want the goal even
own
teeth.
Anxious
thoughts
taunted
addressed
stop
but
doubting
above
my
that
it
competency.
was
I
had
my
to
The Probe | Fall 2020
36
if
it
meant
unexpected
has some days they won’t perform as well as
circumstances and making some sacrifices. You
they would like. There may be fewer chances
and I have made it to dental school and we will
for us to be studying or eating together and fill
be able to graduate and become competent
up
dentists
friends and build community. But when we do
as
struggling
long
as
through
we
persevere
and
keep
working hard day by day.
the
with
personal
talk—to
make
have those discouraging days I hope we can
By D2 year, an analogy that comforted me
remind ourselves that we’re not alone in those
was my daily commute. The first time I started
downs. It may require more intentionality but
driving regularly was when I moved to Richmond
we can talk to each other about these things.
for
dental
school.
I
would
get
clammy
and
Although the pandemic has had horrible
sweaty whenever I was on the road, especially
consequences, one positive highlight from the
when I was going somewhere “far” like from
summer quarantine was that I got to rest my
Shockoe Bottom to Short Pump. But by D2 year
hands and try digital drawing for the first time.
I could commute to and from Short Pump with
In between rest I got to draw short educational
ease through sun or rain. Dentistry is the same
animations
way—it will get easier the more we do it.
slice-of-life comic, brainstorm plots for stories
"The lesson I learned from my first two years is perseverance." It’s really easy to hide the lows we go through
in
dental
school.
Sometimes
it's
intentional and other times it's just the busy of
a
dental
struggles
student.
if
we
I'm
talk,
open
but
to
life
sharing
those
my
extended
that
will
about
dentistry,
probably
never
be
make
a
weekly
published,
draw
portraits that others requested for their friends and
families,
and
do
housework
to
make
a
happy home without feeling discomfort in my hands. It lifted my spirits to be able to use my hands to create something outside of dentistry again. Unfortunately since school has started a dull pain
has
returned
recently
(in
a
different
location thankfully), so I’m still trying to be very aware
of
ergonomics,
proper
stretching
and
strengthening, and rest, which includes another
conversations are hard to come by. If you see
indefinite
me in class or clinic, you could think that I've
require my hands. But I am still so thankful for
never doubted that dentistry was for me; I’m
these two hands of mine. I no longer question
just one of the smiley, chirpy students who look
whether I’ll be able to finish dental school or
like every day is going pretty well. But I'm sure
whether I will be helpful to my future patients.
all of us show a smile even on some of our
I’ve
difficult days.
dentistry
It was easy even before COVID-19 to think your
peers
have
everything
together
but
I
hobbies,
dejected
or
even
persevere
where
I
am
and
projects
to
currently
that
trust
that
called
and
Lastly, here are some doodles I blissfully
see
looking
creative
people.
drew
classmate
is
to
from
where my small hands can be of big help to
distance. There may be fewer chances for us to a
hiatus
learned
assume it's even easier now as we try to social
37
space
during
quarantine!
words
of
If
you
have
encouragement,
or
any art,
shedding some tears after a practical, exam, or
please consider sharing them with our peers in
appointment and be reminded that everyone
the next newsletter!
The Probe | Fall 2020
Published on Oct 4, 2020
The ASDA Newsletter of the VCU School of Dentistry Published October 2020
Published on Oct 4, 2020
The ASDA Newsletter of the VCU School of Dentistry Published October 2020