2015 WMDDS Winter Bulletin

WINTER ISSUE 2015 VOL. 47, NO. 1

Bulletin

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Contents ­Editor

Dr. Jeff Smith

Associate Editors

Dr. Seth Vruggink Dr. Derek Draft Dr. David Huyser Dr. Brian Licari

President’s Message...................................................................................................... 2 Editor’s Thoughts......................................................................................................... 4

Advertising Editor Elaine Fleming

Executive Secretary WMDDS

511-F Waters Building

Grand Rapids, MI 49503

(616) 234-5605

efwmdds@aol.com

2015 Silent Bell Recipient: Dr. Donald French........................................................... 6

West Michigan District Dental Society Executive Board 2014-2015 President Dr. Samuel Bander President-Elect Dr. Steve Conlon Vice President Dr. Leonard Bartoszewicz Secretary-Treasurer Dr. Tyler Wolf Editor Dr. Jeff Smith Immediate Past Dr. Margaret Gingrich President Directors Dr. Brian Mulder

Dr. Lathe Miller

Dr. Kathleen Ellsworth Area Representatives Kent County Dr. James Papp Ionia-Montcalm Dr. John O’Donald County Mecosta County Dr. Erick Perroud Ottawa County Dr. Kevin Rebhan

Trustee Report..............................................................................................................12

MDA IV District Trustees

Dr. Brian Cilla Dr. Colette Smiley

Big Rapids Dental Study Club Officers President Dr. Erick Perroud Vice President Dr. Christa Stern Secretary Dr. Christa Stern Treasurer Dr. Erick Perroud Holland-Zeeland Dental Society Officers President Dr. Meredith Smedley Treasurer Secretary Immediate Past President Ionia-Montcalm Dental Study Club Officers President Treasurer Dr. Kirkwood Faber Kent County Dental Society Officers President Dr. Kathryn Swan Vice President Dr. James Papp Secretary Dr. Kathleen Eisin Treasurer Dr. Christopher Leja West Michigan Dental Foundation Officers President Dr. Michael Palaszek Vice President Dr. Sarah Mahar Secretary Mrs. Dawn Kamyszek Treasurer Mr. Joe Van Laan The Bulletin of the West Michigan Dental Society is published six times a year (the winter issue, spring issue, summer issue, directory issue, fall issue, and holiday issue). The opinions expressed in The Bulletin are not necessarily the opinions of the West Michigan District Dental Society.

Contributions to The Bulletin are welcome and should be addressed to The Bulletin Editor, 3050 Ivanrest SW, Suite B, Grandville, MI 49418.

Requests for purchase of advertising space should be directed to the Advertising Editor, Elaine Fleming, (616) 234-5605. The deadline is the 1st of the month prior to publication. © 2014-2015 West Michigan District Dental Society Bulletin

2015 New Life Members............................................................................................... 9 WMDDS Holiday Event Highlights............................................................................10

Passing on the Values Behind Your Success: Ethical Wills........................................18 MDA News....................................................................................................................20 WMDF News................................................................................................................27 Legal Entities and Formalities: Making Sure Your Practice Protects You................28 Technically Speaking....................................................................................................32 What Dental School Never Taught You About Choosing A Financial Planner.......34 Ten Things To Ask Your Accountant This Tax Season.............................................36 Classified Ads................................................................................................................38 Advertiser Index............................................................................................................39 About the Cover 2015 Silent Bell Recipient Dr. Donald French and his wife, Janice.

Photo courtesy of Adam Bird Photographer.

Mission Statement The Bulletin is the newsletter of the WMDDS and its mission is to inform the membership of upcoming and recent events, state & local issues related to dentistry, and as a forum for its officers, representatives, and members to discuss appropriate topics of interest to the membership.

Communication & Advertising Policy The Bulletin will publish submitted articles from members and others that relate to the practice of dentistry, small business, social, or political issues affecting dentists, or other subjects of interest to the membership. All published items are subject to space restrictions and the community standards of the WMDDS. The editors reserve the right to reject any article or advertisement deemed ­inappropriate and to edit submissions as they see fit.

Submission & Publication Policy: Articles and advertisements must be submitted no later than the 1st of the month preceding ­publication date. The Bulletin has six publications: the winter issue, spring issue, summer issue, directory issue, fall issue, holiday issue. Direct submissions or ­correspondences to:

WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | WINTER ISSUE 2015

Dr. Jeffrey S. Smith • 3050 Ivanrest SW, Suite B • Grandville, MI 49418 Phone: 616.531.1554 FAX 616.531.6947 • Email: jssmith@comcast.net Include “Newsletter” in the subject line

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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

State of the Union … (or Local Dental Society)

By Samuel Bander, DDS, WMDDS President

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he WMDDS 2014-2015 year is just past the half way point. I am happy to report that the state of the WMDDS is very good. As President, I have a unique perspective. The committed dentists of West Michigan continue to serve unselfishly and continue to make a difference in their practice and their community. Below is a brief update on what we have been doing.

The Business of Dentistry in West Michigan Dental Education – Dr. Margaret Gingrich, chair.

Many thanks to Eve Sidney, Director of the Grand Rapids Community College Hygiene and Assisting programs, for her report at the January Board meeting. GRCC offers full- and part-time assisting curriculum and is considering offering a program for a CDA to obtain their RDA. In addition, GRCC opened their new, renovated dental clinic. Give Eve a call and stop by to see the clinic.

Distinguished Service Award – Dr. John Bouws, chair. The Silent Bell Banquet was held at Cascade Hills Country Club on Dec 11, 2014. Our executive secretary, Elaine Fleming, put together a very elegant evening to honor our Silent Bell recipient Dr. Donald French and our Life Members – Drs. Lynn Brouwer, Kennard Creason, Tim Gietzen, John Lange, Jon O’Brien, Norman Palm, Richard Robertson, Frederick Ruffer, Wayne Westbrook, James Wieland, and James Zarafonetis.

Our members had a fun evening socializing with colleagues and welcoming many guests from around the state. This is an event you won’t want to miss next year!

Member Caring/Concern – Dr. Gene Bonofiglo, chair, reported at the January Board meeting on the donations

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made and condolences sent to families of recently deceased members. The committee also sent “get well” cards/gifts to members who were hospitalized or ill. Thanks for your service, Gene!

Programs and arrangements – Dr. Steve Conlon, chair, put together an outstanding program lineup this year. The first two programs (Dr. Howard Farran and Dr. Stanley Malamed) had record-breaking attendance and were outstanding CE courses. I encourage you to attend the March 13 meeting featuring Dr. Ken Hargreaves on acute dental pain.

See you there!

Peer Review Standard of Care – Dr. Drew Hoekwater, chair, presented his report to the Board. The committee received four cases – two were unable to mediate and a panel of three dentists was needed. Our peer review system continues to assist in resolving conflicts. Thanks to Dr. Hoekwater and the entire committee for their work on this important committee.

Leadership Nominations – Dr. Margaret Gingrich, chair. Immediate Past President, Margaret Gingrich put together a talented slate of delegates to the MDA HOD and officers for WMDDS next year. Dr. Steve Conlon will be filling committees for 2015-2016.

Let him know if you want to get involved in organized dentistry. His email is drconlon@sbcglobal.net, or call 616.554.5974.

Legislative – Dr. Len Bartoszewicz, chair, is putting together a Legislative Breakfast this spring. Our state legislators need to get to know us. This breakfast is a convenient way to meet one-on-one with our representatives. The breakfast will be held May 29 at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.

See the registration form in this issue of the WMDDS Bulletin.

Mark your calendar and sign up today!

Our Community Steel Water Award – Dr. Gene Bonofigilo, chair, is a past WMDDS and MDA president, and continues to serve our Dental Society as chair of the Steel Water Award Task Force.

This award is given to an individual or group who has made a significant contribution to dentistry or the community. Please let Dr. Bonofiglo know if you would like to nominate a group or individual.

WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | WINTER ISSUE 2015

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Kent County Oral Health Coalition – Dr. Stephanie Rashewsky agreed to be the liaison between the WMDDS and the Kent County Oral Health Coalition. The KCOHC was established in 2011 and is a partnership of people and groups who want to improve the oral health of our greater community. This is a very active group of community leaders and volunteers. Dr. Rashewsky would be happy to help you get involved if you have a desire to serve your community.

three-year term. Thank you, Dr. Smith, for your service to the WMDDS! Welcome to Dr. James Vincelj as the incoming editor.

James will be adding interested and creative WMDDS members to the committee. We look forward to the continued success of the Bulletin.

Thanks to all who give of their time to the WMDDS – you ARE making a difference!

Promotion Editorial Policies – Dr. Jeff Smith, chair. Dr Jeff Smith’s term as editor of the WMDDS Bulletin is coming to an end in April. The Editor is a voting Board member and serves a

Silent Bell Past Recipients Otto Lee Ricker, D.D.S., M.S. Willard B. Ver Meulen, D.D.S. Clifford T. Nelson, D.D.S. William M. Creason, D.D.S. Vernor H. Eman, D.D.S., M.S. Julius Franks, Jr., D.D.S. Henry L. Homan, D.D.S. Ray E. Stevens, Jr., D.D.S. Orren A. Bolt, D.D.S. Robert F. Streelman, D.D.S. Gerald L. Vander Wall, D.D.S., M.S. David H. Seibold, D.D.S. Donald G. Hallas, D.D.S. Robert E. Reagan, D.D.S. John R. Cook, D.D.S. Eugene L. Bonofiglo, D.D.S. Lawrence R. Marcotte, D.D.S., M.S. Laurence J. Jensen, D.D.S. Harry H. Luton, D.D.S., M.S. Robert W. Browne, D.D.S., M.S. Harold O. Steele II, D.D.S.

1981 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1997 1998 1998

WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | WINTER ISSUE 2015

Lawrence J. Manning, D.D.S., M.S. Arnold Baker, D.D.S., M.S. Robert D. Mitus, Jr., D.D.S. Robert W. Klinesteker, D.D.S. Timothy H. Gietzen, D.D.S. James L. Wieland, D.D.S. Charles R. Caldwell, D.D.S., M.S. Henry J. Milanowski, D.D.S. John J. Stepanovich, D.D.S. Lonny E. Zietz, D.D.S., M.S. Michael H. (Reggie) VanderVeen, D.D.S. William A. Avery, D.D.S. William F. Rocker, D.D.S. Robert F. O’Brien, D.D.S. Marilyn J. Stolberg, D.D.S. John D. Bouws, D.D.S. Paul F. Korte, D.D.S. Chase Klinesteker, D.D.S. Tom Sommerdyke, D.D.S. Chris Smiley

1999 2000 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2009 2010 2010 2011 2012 2013 2013 2014

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EDITOR’S THOUGHTS

Is Your Body Trying to Tell You Something? Part 2

By Jeffrey Smith, DDS, MS, Editor, West Michigan District Dental Society

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he more time that we spend doing anything, whether it simply involves enjoying the high points or plowing through the challenges of life (or to narrow things down to the point of this article, our dental careers), the more we gain an ever increasing perspective. Experience enables us to see a clearer view of the entire forest, as we pass by each tree one at a time. Hopefully as we continue in practice, we become a little wiser in the decisions that we make, and the options that we recommend to our patients as we treat them.

But what about the decisions that we make for ourselves? For many, the actual hands-on practice of dentistry or hygiene will take on a physical toll over time. Is a little occasional tingling or pain in our hands, wrists, or forearms something that we simply shrug off? Or do we try to benefit from the knowledge that as dental professionals, we are more susceptible to certain injuries or problems that if left untreated, over time may impede or shorten our careers?

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) results from the compression of the median nerve as it (and nine flexor tendons) run through the carpal tunnel, a bony concavity on the ventral side of the wrist which is covered above by the transverse carpal ligament. The nerve usually moves about 9 to 10 millimeters inside the tunnel to allow the wrist to flex and extend. Longterm compression of the nerve can prevent it from gliding properly within the tunnel, leading to nerve injury and scarring. Symptoms include tingling, pain, or weakness (increased frequency of dropping things) involving the thumb and the next three fingers (but not the pinky), and may also travel up the wrist and forearm. Symptoms often occur while holding on to objects (such as the phone, newspapers, steering wheels, or tools), or during sleep (when numbness secondary

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to flexion of the wrist during sleep increases pressure on the nerve). Many will try to relieve these symptoms by “shaking out” their hands.

CTS can affect anyone. Approximately 5% of the American population will at some point in their lives suffer from its effects. It accounts for about 90% of all nerve compression syndromes, and is more commonly seen with increasing age, as well as in women, Caucasians, and people with a history of wrist injury, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, fluid retention (associated with pregnancy), and/or workplace factors (involving the use of vibrating tools and prolonged or repetitive wrist flexion). Scientific evidence on these factors is conflicting, and has not established any of them as a direct cause of CTS. Diagnosis of CTS is determined by a physician or a hand surgeon using physical examination to determine finger/hand strength, and by reaction to pressure or tapping on the median nerve at the wrist. Radiographs may be used to rule out other causes of wrist pain including wrist fracture or arthritis. MRI studies may confirm narrowing of the carpal tunnel, circulatory problems, or swelling of the nerve. Electromyography or nerve conduction studies may be used to test electrical activity of the hand muscles, or to see if electrical impulses are slowed as they travel down the median nerve through the carpal tunnel. Phalen’s maneuver is a test that you can perform at home to see if you might need medical follow up for CTS. Flex your wrist gently to about 90 degrees (or as far as possible), and hold this position waiting for symptoms. If numbness, paresthesia, or pain of the median-innervated fingers results within 45 to 60 seconds, you have a positive test. The faster the numbness starts, the more advanced the condition. This is one of the few tests shown to correlate with CTS severity.

Treatment for CTS can involve the short term use of oral or locally administered steroids until a long term strategy is developed that fits the person’s lifestyle. Wrist splints to prevent flexion worn at night (and as much as is practical during the day) have been shown to be effective, however, many patients are not willing to use these braces. Surgical release (severing) of the transverse carpal ligament to relieve the pressure over the median nerve is recommended when symptoms become constant, and when night splints no longer control intermittent symptoms. However, those who undergo WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | WINTER ISSUE 2015

EDITOR’S THOUGHTS

this surgery may be more prone to developing trigger thumb within months following the procedure. Mild cases of CTS can often be treated successfully at home by: (1) cessation of activities that cause numbness or pain, or by resting the wrist longer between these activities; (2) icing the wrist for 10 to 15 minutes once or twice an hour; (3) use of NSAIDs to relieve pain and swelling, and; (4) use of the above mentioned wrist splint at night, which prevents additional pressure on the median nerve.

The prognosis for most patients who are treated with conservative or surgical methods is good. They experience minimal residual nerve damage and associated symptoms.

But long term untreated CTS, (like that typically seen in the elderly) may lead to irreversible nerve damage resulting in muscle atrophy, weakness, and numbness.

A simple three question test* exists which may help to guide you in determining whether your symptoms are actually CTS, and if there may be need for further medical follow up: 1. Do at least two of my fingers feel numb?

2. Are these sensations stronger when I wake up (or at night) than they are during the daytime?

3. Does shaking or flicking my hand reduce these symptoms?

A yes answer to at least two of these questions indicates that your symptoms are more than likely CTS. *http://www.palomedical.com/blog/carpal-tunnel-syndrome-self-test/

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2015 SILENT BELL RECIPIENT

2015 Silent Bell Recipient: Dr. Donald French Submitted by Marilyn Stolberg, D.D.S. Photos by Adam Bird Photographer

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r. Don French, our 2015 Silent Bell recipient, has led a life founded on the principals of ethics, faith, and service to others which were instilled in him by his parents. He learned to be a hard worker and have an inquiring mind.

Don was born on the family farm in Midland County in April, 1936, to Lloyd and Gladys French. Lloyd was a farmer and Gladys a homemaker. Don was the only boy, with three sisters.

Don describes his life on the farm as idyllic, with space to roam, animals to care for and gardens to tend. By age ten, he was driving a tractor as he was considered responsible enough to take on additional farm responsibilities. He attended a one-room county school.

He absorbed many traits from his parents, especially a strong work ethic, the love of learning, a desire to help others, a mission spirit, and the commitment to tithe.

He was greatly influenced by family and circumstances of his childhood. His mother was nurturing and his father was well-respected in the community. Living a farm life taught him about the cycle of life and where food comes from. His best model was his maternal grandfather, who was a farmer and a country minister, and whose motto was to never offend anyone – being very careful of what he said. A giving person, he ministered to the sick in the community, looking out for those who needed help.

His interests and activities as a young person included sports and outdoor activities. At a young age, he became interested in bird hunting, which has been an ongoing passion for him. When he was in high school, it was common for the boys to bring their guns to school and pheasant hunt during their lunch.

Though he initially had no thoughts of going to college, the school superintendent encouraged him to take college prep courses and extension courses through CMU. The instruc-

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tor of the chemistry extension course became a mentor and encouraged him to think about the possibilities of a broader life view and encouraged him to consider dentistry.

An even more significant interest in high school was his future wife, Janice Federspiel, who he met in geometry class.

As luck would have it, the class was seated alphabetically.

Don and Janice have been together ever since. They had like interests in high school including sports – Don lettered in four sports and Janice played softball and basketball. They both attended CMU. They were married in 1957, and after two years, Janice received a Bachelor of Science in elementary education and Don completed his prerequisites. Janice became a teacher and Don entered University of Michigan Dental School in 1960.

During his time at University of Michigan, Don worked as an hospital orderly while Janice taught 4th grade at Willow Run. Don liked college and dental school. He worked hard, kept quiet and got his work done. He was included with the third of the class who were excused from the boards upon recommendation of the dean.

As much as he loved Ann Arbor, he could not fathom practicing in the same town as his instructors. He heard of an opportunity in Big Rapids, and embraced it. He had a private practice from 1964 until his “retirement” in 1998.

Don and Janice raised their two sons, Andrew and Nathan, in Big Rapids. Don was a Rotarian and served several terms on the local school board. Janice, a substitute teacher, was also involved with the dental practice. As a family, they traveled to the 48 contiguous states and visited Europe. Big Rapids was a good place to settle and raise a family.

Don and Janice’s life foundation is faith and service. They have always been involved with church, including being charter members of Trinity Fellowship Church, where they were very active in church life.

WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | WINTER ISSUE 2015

2015 SILENT BELL RECIPIENT

Through the years, Don has been involved with dental mission work. He organized and participated in a dental mission trip to Alaska. Through his church, he learned of medical mission work in Guyana. He was influential in developing the dental services for these trips and made numerous trips to Guyana providing dental care. He recruited numerous individuals to participate in these trips as well, including dental colleagues, Ferris dental hygiene students, and dental support staff. Though he no longer travels to Guyana, the mission work continues through others who have picked up the torch.

The program has grown and now includes Ferris optometry students as well.

Though Don officially retired from private practice in 1998, he has continued to provide dental care to those in need. He has practiced at Family Health Care in Lake and

WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | WINTER ISSUE 2015

Newaygo County for ten years, and previously provided care to residents of the corrections facility in Lake County. He practices at Hope House in Big Rapids, and participated in both the Saginaw and Big Rapids Mission of Mercy events.

In his spare time, he continues to travel, most recently to eastern Europe. He also enjoys exploring family genealogy, reading American history, and ministering to others.

For Dr. Don French, the profession of dentistry was a good fit. He was respected by his patients and knew that he was appreciated. He stayed with the ethical standards that he learned both in his family and during his dental school education.

Faith, integrity and service clearly describes the 2015 Silent Bell recipient, Dr. Don French.

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2015 SILENT BELL RECIPIENT

Donald French, DDS Curriculum Vitae Education Breckenridge High School, 1955 Central Michigan University – three years – Pre-Dental University of Michigan Dental School – Doctor of Dental Surgery, 1964

Work Experience Dow Corning prior to entering CMU Hospital orderly during time at CMU and while studying at U of M Private dental practice from 1964 through 1998 Clinic instructor – part-time/on call – Ferris State University Dental Hygiene Program for more than 20 years After retiring from private practice: Corrections facility – part-time in Baldwin until approx. 2004 Baldwin Family Health Care – part-time from 2004 to present

Professional Associations American Dental Association – life member Michigan Dental Association – life member West Michigan District Dental Society Big Rapids Area Dental Study Club Vedder Society

Community Service Church/Spiritual Affiliations First Baptist Church, Big Rapids – 1964 – approx. 1980 – deacon Trinity Fellowship Church, Big Rapids – Charter member 1981 – present: Deacon Finance Committee Mission Board Church Moderator Involved with construction of facility including dry walling new church and refurbishing prayer room Taught Sunday School and finance classes at church

Mission Work Established dental portion of the mission initiative to Guyana that is supported by Trinity Fellowship Church. This mission initiative was initially for medical care only, but was expanded to include dental care. Dr. French obtained equipment, recruited workers, and provided dental services.

Included in those who were recruited through the years for these trips were his own office staff, dental colleagues, and students from the Ferris Dental Hygiene Program, church members, and dental staff members from Baldwin Family Health Care. Has participated in six trips to Guyana.

Alaskan Mission trip – provided care to Native Alaskans and the missionaries serving with these individuals While working at the Corrections Facility, provided informal counseling to incarcerated teens as well as dental care Hope House, Big Rapids – provides dental care to underserved – current

Personal Projects and Interests Civil War authority – has spoken locally on various topics History Genealogy Travel – been to all 50 states Avid bird hunter Lifelong ethic of helping people who are forgotten, misunder­stood, in need, or lacking resources

Family Married 57 years to Janice Two children – Nathan, an attorney, and Andrew (deceased 2004 – who served with Youth with a Mission)

Public Service Rotary – member until retirement from private practice School Board member, Big Rapids Public Schools Ferris State University Dental Hygiene Program: Children’s Dental Health Month Saturday open clinic – provides exams.

Has been doing this annually for at least ten years Provides dentist coverage during the spring dental hygiene NERB exam Mission of Mercy – Saginaw 2013 and Big Rapids 2014

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WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | WINTER ISSUE 2015

2015 NEW LIFE MEMBERS

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he following West Michigan District Dental Society members reached the age of 65 and were awarded ADA and MDA life membership in 2014.

Congratulations to Dr. Lynn Brouwer, Dr. Kennard Creason, Dr. John Lange, Dr. Jon O’Brien, Dr. Norm Palm, Dr. Richard Robertson, Dr. Frederik Ruffer, Dr. Wayne Westbrook, Dr. James Wieland, and Dr. James Zarafonetis.

The new life members were recognized at the WMDDS Holiday Dinner and Awards Night on December 11, 2014 at Cascade Hills Country Club. Attending were Dr. Timothy Gietzen, Dr. Jon O’Brien, Dr. Norm Palm, and Dr. James Wieland.

Dr. Timothy Gietzen, Dr. Jon O’Brien, Dr. Norm Palm, Dr. James Wieland WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | WINTER ISSUE 2015

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WMDDS Holiday Event Highlights Photos by Adam Bird Photographer

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WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | WINTER ISSUE 2015

WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | WINTER ISSUE 2015

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TRUSTEE REPORT

Winter 2015 Trustee Report

By Dr. Brian Cilla, MDA Trustee

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his report is a synopsis of recent MDA activities and of the MDA Board of Trustees meeting held in December.

MDA Public Education Campaign Jenny Armistead and David Foe provided the Board with a report on the MDA Public Education Campaign. The current campaign debuted in 2010 and expired at the end of 2014.

Market research has found that the public was favorably responding to the current “Healthy Body Healthy Mouth” campaign.

The new campaign is a multi-channel campaign involving members in their offices and providing resources for use by the component dental societies. New to the 2015 campaign: • Market research (pre- and post-campaign tracking); • Digital elements (search, display, social media); • More opportunities for measuring & reporting performance; • Campaign extensions to support local dental societies; • Stronger emphasis on achieving campaign objectives.

The objectives of the new campaign are: • Position MDA as Michigan’s oral health authority; • Educate the oral health – overall health connection (Healthy Body Healthy Mouth); • Stress the importance of seeing an MDA dentist twice a year.

Commercials began their debut on January 19. Programming is targeted toward women. The new campaign will have a stronger emphasis of online marketing and expand MDA’s exposure. More people are online in terms of interacting and searching. Included will be paid search advertising as well as

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digital display advertising which will allow the MDA to connect with the people that are looking for a dentist. One benefit is that these ads can be targeted by geographic location. There is flexibility with moving monies to ads that are effective versus ones that aren’t, and the MDA will monitor their effectiveness and make adjustments as necessary.

The MDA has a new consumer-focused “Smile Michigan” page on Facebook. This new page features our new public information campaign and is separate from the existing MDA Facebook page, which is geared to our membership. The Smile Michigan Facebook page will serve as the hub for our social media presence in the new ad campaign, “What Would Your Mouth Say about You?” Members are encouraged to get involved with this campaign. There are display posters for use in our offices.

Additionally, there is a new brochure explaining the healthy mouth-healthy body connection. A copy of that brochure was included in the January MDA Journal.

Social media will be another key part of this new campaign.

The MDA may also utilize some paid search to grow this page during the next couple of months. Funding will be through our regular public education campaign assessment. For more information on the campaign, contact Jenny Armistead, MDA Director of Marketing and Communications.

Presentation on Dental Therapist Bill Sullivan, Director of Government and Insurance Affairs, provided the Board with an update on alternative dental providers. While the Michigan legislature has not had a lot of activity in this area, it has always been lurking in the background. In Mr. Sullivan’s opinion, there are signs that Michigan is taking a closer look at the mid-level provider model and MDA should take this very seriously as the Michigan legislature heads into its 2015 cycle. Governor Snyder formed a work group to review the Public Health Code to include workforce. Legislators continue to query the MDA lobbying staff about mid-levels and access. MDA staff has been informed that everything is on the table for discussion when it comes to access to care.

Dr. James Zenk, ADA 10th District Trustee and former President of the Minnesota Dental Association, provided the Board with an overview of the dental therapist experience in WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | WINTER ISSUE 2015

TRUSTEE REPORT

Minnesota. Minnesota has enough dentists to serve the population. However, Medicaid only pays 37 cents on the dollar, so few dentists can afford to participate with that program.

Organized dentistry attempted to change Medicaid reimbursement levels but was unsuccessful. To remedy the perceived problem of access to dental care, Minnesota legislators created a new dental team member in 2009. Unfortunately, the Minnesota Dental Association had no allies in opposing this legislative initiative.

The first class of nine dental therapists graduated from the University of Minnesota in 2012. Metro State had room for nine students and seven positions were filled. Minnesota now has a dental therapist and an advanced dental therapist.

The advanced dental therapist has general supervision, and the dentist need not to be in the office for him/her to treat a patient. Large group practices receive a higher reimbursement rate from Medicaid than smaller general practices, and are embracing the dental therapist. By law, half of the dental therapist’s time must be spent on Medicaid patients. Dental therapists can now apply for their own NPI number to bill Medicaid directly.

Dr. Zenk provided the Board with information on the dental therapist program. This program has not received final CODA approval. Standards will be developed in January and schools can then request accreditation. Nevertheless, the State Board developed a test and is licensing graduates as dental therapists. After 2000 hours of practice, they may apply for the advanced dental therapist license. The Scope of Practice allows the Advanced Dental Therapist (ADT) to do restorations. In Minnesota, restorative function assistants can place a restoration once the preparation is done. The ADT is allowed to do the preparation. Dr. Zenk noted that dental therapists are required to have their own liability insurance. The bottom line is that the dentist is liable for the actions of the therapist.

It is important to note that the Minnesota Delta Dental Foundation and PEW are sponsoring trips that bring legislators from other states to view the Minnesota dental therapist program. These organizations have money and an agenda.

As a consequence, Dr. Zenk feels that mid-level providers are not going away any time soon. However, he also stated that there will most likely not be a significant growth trajectory in Minnesota. Michigan beware!

WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | WINTER ISSUE 2015

Governance Update Dr. Norm Palm, chair of the MDA Nominating Committee, informed the Board that the purpose of the Nominating Committee is to carefully review the credentials of each potential candidate, seek out the most qualified candidates for each position, and ensure, to the greatest degree possible, that the slate of candidates proffered by the Nominating Committee appropriately reflects the diversity of the Association’s membership. Dr. Palm provided the Board with an update on the applications that had been received: • 14 applications were filed for trustee • 7 of the trustee applicants are incumbent trustees • 1 trustee applicant is an emeritus trustee • 6 applicants are women • Demographically it was a challenge finding younger men.

• 2 applicants for secretary/treasurer • 11 applicants filed for the ADA Delegation.

At the beginning of November, there were not enough applicants to meet diversity goals and, as a consequence, the committee began the process of recruiting additional qualified individuals. This was a big job due to the fact that there are nine trustee positions to be filled. In future years, only three trustee positions will be available in any given year. It is anticipated that LEAD program participants could be considered for leadership positions once they have completed the program.

Encouraging Components to Prepare it’s Members for MDA Leadership One element of the Governance Implementation Plan is ensuring that component dental societies are still connected and engaged in the MDA governance process and that the component leaders continue to play an active role in identifying, developing, and encouraging members in their area to become active volunteers. There are currently two outlets for these activities: First, component leadership can play an active role in encouraging individuals to submit their applications for consideration by the Nominating Committee. Second, they can encourage individuals to submit their applications for consideration for the LEAD program.

13

TRUSTEE REPORT

Department of Community Health (DCH) Mr. Tim Becker, chief deputy director of DCH, provided the Board with a report on department activities. He discussed that they are currently conducting a Dental Medicaid rebid process and that the department recognizes that Healthy Kids Dental has been a successful initiative for the State of Michigan. He also noted that DCH would do all that it can to protect that brand. The intent is to have the next Medicaid contract do more, not less. There is a push to get Healthy Kids Dental into the remaining three counties; however that is dependent upon adequate funding. Mr. Becker relayed that there has been good feedback on the adult dental Medicaid expansion program, Healthy Michigan.

DCH is aware that conventional Medicaid has low reimbursement and would like to see something done about this.

It was indicated that this would be evaluated, but that it comes down to what the department can obtain in terms of additional appropriations. The bottom line is that the adult program will not expand until all of the children are covered.

The MDA Board shared some concerns about the Healthy Michigan program and Healthy Kids Dental with Mr. Becker.

The following were discussed: • Since the Healthy Michigan program has more than one administrator, and each administrator offers different coverage, there is no way at this time to determine which provider a patient has, which makes it difficult to determine the patient’s coverage.

• Another issue is that medical providers at the emergency room level don’t always know the dental codes, and ED visits regarding dental issues are being billed as medical.

• In order to participate with Healthy Kids Dental, the dentist must be a Delta provider. There would be more dentists willing to treat patients if this requirement were not in place. Mr. Becker stated that the Department is aware of this issue and that it is being addressed.

It was apparent that DCH wants to preserve and expand the utilization/participation of the Healthy Kids Dental program.

The Department wants to explore outreach and emphasize getting the children to the dentist. It is a priority to have dental benefits that will be utilized.

Mr. Becker noted that the legislature affects what the 14

department can accomplish. He suggested that since the MDA has a good relationship with legislators, that the MDA discuss these topics with them and share information so that that the MDA and the department can work together to accomplish shared goals.

Megatopic: Large Group Practices Aspen Dental representatives were invited to meet with the MDA Board. Dr. Judge Arwinder, Aspen Dental Chief Clinical Officer, provided the Board with a presentation on the structure of Aspen Dental. Present with him were: Dr. Nicholas Miller (Grand Rapids owner and WMDDS member), Dr. Pritoj Gil, and Dr. Victoria Lucas-Perry.

Aspen Dental practices are independently owned and operated. The owner dentist employs all clinical and nonclinical staff working in their offices and is responsible for supervising the delivery of care and all aspects of employment relationships. The owner-dentist licenses the Aspen Dental trade name from Aspen Dental Management, Inc. (ADMI).

Aspen Dental is a dental service organization that provides the following services: • Business expertise & support services; • Leadership development; • Payroll, benefits; • Real Estate procurement and set-up; • Insurance operations/billing; • Financial analysis and reporting.

Aspen Dental sees all types of patients, but does not participate in dental Medicaid. However, Aspen does participate with Healthy Kids Dental and Healthy Michigan. Most dental insurances are accepted. Fees are negotiated through ADMI/ Aspen Dental. The Aspen representatives noted that the Healthy Michigan plan covers many services, but not all that need to be covered.

While Aspen Dental provides some of the same services as the MDA, it believes that organized dentistry is very important and valuable. The Aspen Dental representatives feel that the ADA needs to be more inviting to ethnicities, women, and different delivery models. Dr. Arwinder acknowledged that Aspen has been asked to work with the ADA on these issues.

Currently, Aspen doesn’t pay ADA/MDA membership dues WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | WINTER ISSUE 2015

TRUSTEE REPORT

for Aspen dentists. He added that it is the doctor’s choice to determine whether they are a member of the ADA/MDA and owner-doctors determine whether or not they pay the dues for their employee dentists.

Aspen believes the MDA peer review system is an important member benefit. While there is not a specific internal peer review process, Aspen attempts to work out disputes when they arise between the patient and doctor. Dr. Arwinder requested that MDA provide more information to the Michigan Aspen Dental doctors on our peer review system.

At Aspen Dental, new graduates are trained and begin by observing an established dentist. At the end of the day, quality of care is going to determine whether a practice is successful.

The reason 50% of dental school graduates are joining large group practices is because of student debt. Everyone can have success – there is not a lack of patients. It was expressed that the benefit of a general practitioner moving under the Aspen umbrella is that it provides marketing and the ability to grow.

This type of practice works for new graduates as well as experienced dentists who want to practice dentistry without the headache of running a practice.

Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) Work Group It was adopted that the Michigan Dental Association approves implementation of the recommendations of the MOA Work Group to communicate with dental providers to ensure that an adequate number of providers are willing to sign memorandum of agreements to accept referrals from mobile providers. Without adequate support from local dental providers, there is a danger that this newest MDA-endorsed legislation on mobile dentistry will come under significant political scrutiny.

Legislative Update Bill Sullivan presented the following information to the Board: • The new legislative term beginning in 2015 will be much more conservative than in previous years. It will be more difficult to get new spending and new legislation passed.

• The MDA is now aware that the decrease in reimbursement rates for new Delta Premier dentists will be $1-2 above the PPO rate, which is a significant decrease. When the MDA first became aware of this change, it was thought WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | WINTER ISSUE 2015

the impact would be felt only by new dentists. However, it is now known that it may also impact the value of a dental practice which is for sale. The MDA was informed that a member dentist was in the process of selling his practice to a new dentist, and the new dentist stated that the value of the practice should be decreased because the new dentist could not receive the same reimbursement rate from Delta Premier.

• In September, the Board was informed that CIGNA insurance will be determining a new rating system based on what the dentist charges. Those that charge lower fees will receive a better rating than those that charge a higher fee.

However, the New York Dental Society and the ADA challenged this new rating system. As a consequence, CIGNA has agreed to not implement this type of rating scheme.

• A group called “Stop Overcharging” was formed by the insurance companies in response to their failure to get changes to the no-fault system. The initiative states that a health provider shall not charge a consumer an amount for medical goods or services that exceeds 150% of the lowest amount accepted by that provider as payment in full from another consumer for the same or similar medical goods or services. The definitions in the petition are such that dentists are covered by this proposed law. The group has hired a professional signature gathering company to help get the required signatures. If they are successful in obtaining the signatures, the proposed law would be on the ballot in November of 2016. The Michigan Health and Hospital Association are expected to take the lead in fighting this proposed legislation and there will be many allies.

Subsidiary Reports MDA Insurance & Financial Group: Mr. Craig Start, president, provided the Board with a update on MDA IFG activities. The MDA Board reviewed and approved the following endorsements: SoFi (Student Loan Consolidation), AppRiver (Email Encryption), eScapes (Private Television Network).

Michigan Dental Association Foundation (MDAF): Nancy Maier, the new chief development officer for MDAF, has reported that the Foundation’s recent Inner Circle mailing has raised $23,905 to date. The average donation was $215. The 2014 campaign resulted in 96 more donors than in

15

TRUSTEE REPORT

the past, and an average of $50 more per donor. It’s another sign of the progress our Foundation is making. Thanks to our many Foundation supporters!

The Board was provided with an update on Foundation activities by MDAF President, Dr. Susan Carron. Of the MDA members who have paid their dues to date, 53% have contributed to the Foundation. The Foundation is corpus based.

Over the past 16 years, the Foundation has raised $1,822,185.

MDAF has worked hard in keeping expenses down in order build the corpus. In the future, more will be done to publicize Foundation grants to the dental community. New grant guidelines have been developed. Dr. Carron announced that the Foundation plans to review its Bylaws to align more closely with that of the MDA’s.

Mission of Mercy (MOM) 2016: Dr. Steve Harris informed the Board that the 2016 MOM will be held at Macomb Community College facility. The college is located four miles from Detroit. This MOM event will be on June 9-12, 2016.

Make sure to mark your calendars.

Annual Session The MDA “Spirit of Michigan” Annual Session will take place April 22-25 in Lansing. We are looking for a big turnout in our capital city. This year there will be a Women’s Leadership Forum and a new health/wellness area on site at the Lansing Center. Please give consideration to attending the meeting with your staff. There are many fine CE courses and opportunities to participate with fun events.

MDA Job Fair The first-ever MDA Job Fair will take place Saturday, March 21 at MDA headquarters. This event will include two CE programs, and a Job Fair Exhibit Hall as well as informal networking. The Job Fair is aimed at both those looking for jobs, and those who may have positions to offer. CE speakers will include Dr. Reggie VanderVeen (“Tips for Successful Associateships”) and MDA Legal Counsel Dan Schulte (“Contract Tips for New Dentists and Employers”).

For more information contact Josh Lord, the MDA Director of Membership and Strategic Initiatives.

16

New MDA Committees As part of a MDA strategic initiative, volunteers are being sought to help with two new member outreach programs.

Both of these provide volunteer opportunities those seeking to serve without committing to a long-term project.

New Dentist Committee: On January 16 the MDA held a new dentist strategic planning workshop. The purpose of the meeting was to work on re-establishing the MDA New Dentist Committee.

Diversity Committee: The MDA is seeking interested members who have a desire to help enhance relationships with Michigan’s ethnic minority dentist community.

Responsibilities will include attending quarterly meetings throughout 2015, each lasting approximately three hours.

Between-meeting work will include approximately two hours of effort for those involved.

If you or someone you know may be interested in these volunteer opportunities, contact Josh Lord or call 517-346-9415.

MedicareOpt-in/Out Update Dentists need to take action to either opt-in or formally opt-out with Medicare before June 1, 2015 – otherwise; you and/or your patients will not be eligible for reimbursement from Medicare. Items that are subject to these rules include: prescription drugs covered by Medicare Part D, certain clinical services (i.e. lab work, imaging services, durable medical equipment, prosthetics/orthotics, oral sleep apnea devices), biopsies on Medicare patients, extractions on Medicare patients preparing for radiation, or oral exams prior to renal transplant surgery.

Dentists who formally opt-out of Medicare cannot submit claims to a Medicare Advantage plan or receive reimbursement from Medicare for covered services. In addition, dentists must be enrolled in order to prescribe drugs covered

by Medicare Advantage plans. If you have not enrolled or formally opted out and you prescribe a drug covered by a Medicare Part D plan, the plan will not pay for the drug.

MDA Award Recipients The 2015 Public Service Award is going to the Big Rapids Department of Human Services. Additionally, the Matt Uday New Dentist Leadership Award will be presented to Dr. WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | WINTER ISSUE 2015

TRUSTEE REPORT

Margaret Gingrich at this year’s annual session. Both awards are well deserved. We have been very fortunate to have Margaret as an active and effective member of WMDDS. Her leadership has been greatly appreciated.

As always, it is a privilege to serve as your WMDDS Trustee. If anyone has any question or concerns about the MDA, the please feel free to reach out. I can best be contacted at bicilla@aol.com.

The Points of Light project

If you would like more information regarding our project or would like to register as a participant, please visit our website at: pointsoflightonline.org.

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17

ESTATE PLANNING

Passing on the Values Behind Your Success: Ethical Wills Amanda N. Ross, Director, Personal Retirement Strategy and Solutions at Merrill Lynch Wealth Management

T

he dynamics of wealth planning and decisionmaking for parents may seem a bit complicated and challenging. Once you start thinking about your legacy and how you envision it taking shape, you may find yourself asking a number of financial questions, such as: How much money am I going to leave my children? Do I include extended family? Who will steer the family business?

There is another crucial aspect of legacy that’s often overlooked: the values behind your success. Seventy-four percent of parents say values and life lessons are most important to pass on to the next generation.

Sharing the values that shaped your success with your family ensures they appreciate your hard work and understand how much it means to you, and have an impact on future generations. Consider implementing an ethical will to complement estate planning.

An ethical will is a document, usually one or two pages, mentioning the values that shape your success. It is usually an end-of-life summary that is used in conjunction with documents that determine how your assets will be distributed. Some families write them together during family gatherings, gathering different insights and learning lessons from each other.

An ethical will may mention your vision and wishes for your family and generations to come, encouraging them to make a difference and to value your legacy. Some ethical wills offer rich insights and are highly descriptive, mentioning major life events and how they came about in shaping personal goals, beliefs and values.

Ethical wills don’t have a legal standing, but they do help pass on important life lessons, providing your family with a clear sense of your personal values. It also helps avoid any discussions or misunderstandings regarding money matters, considering it complements estate planning and can also be used to improve communication among family members; helping explain why your plan was set up a certain way.

For more information, please contact Edward Bujdos from the Eccker, Bujdos & De Jonge Group of Merrill Lynch in the Grand Rapids office at 877.774.4201 or edward_bujdos@ml.com.

Edward Bujdos, CRPC, from the Eccker, Bujdos & De Jonge Group of Merrill Lynch, Grand Rapids office at 250 Monroe Ave. NW, Suite 600, Grand Rapids, MI 49503

The investments or strategies presented do not take into account the investment objectives or financial needs of particular investors. It is important that you consider this information in the context of your personal risk tolerance and investment goals.

Always consult with your independent attorney, tax advisor, investment manager, and insurance agent for final recommendations and before changing or implementing any financial, tax, or estate planning strategy.

Merrill Lynch Wealth Management makes available products and services offered by Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (“MLPF&S”) and other subsidiaries of Bank of America Corporation (“BofA Corp.”)

“Merrill Lynch” refers to any company in the Merrill Lynch & Co., Inc., group of companies, which are wholly owned by Bank of America Corporation.

Investment products: Are Not FDIC Insured Are Not Bank Guaranteed May Lose Value © 2014 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved.

1 Americans’ Perspectives on New Retirement Realities and the Longevity Bonus – a Merrill Lynch retirement study conducted in partnership with Age Wave.

18

WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | WINTER ISSUE 2015

Legislative Breakfast Friday, May 29, 2015 Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park 1000 East Beltline NE Grand Rapids, MI 49525 Please mark your calendar and make plans now to attend the WMDDS Legislative Breakfast.

This is an important opportunity for WMDDS dentists and local legislators to meet and express views and concerns on the issues that affect dentistry. Please make every effort to attend.

To reserve your place, please complete and return the attached form by May 20, 2015.

Name

Email address

Breakfast Buffet will be served starting at 8:00 am Cost: $16 per person Please make check payable to: West Michigan District Dental Society Return by May 20, 2015 to: West Michigan District Dental Society 161 Ottawa Avenue NW Suite 511-F Grand Rapids, MI 49503 Questions? Contact Elaine Fleming 616.234.5605 | efwmdds@aol.com or Dr. Leonard Bartoszewicz, WMDDS Legislative Chairperson 616.245.9830 | doclendo@yahoo.com

MDA NEWS

MDA News from Lansing New MDA Public Education Campaign Launches An exciting, all-new MDA Public Education Campaign begins this month, with two statewide TV advertisements, extensive online search advertising and website advertising, a new Smile Michigan Facebook site for consumers, plus other campaign extensions on social media and in local communities. The new MDA TV ads began airing on broadcast and cable TV January 19.

“Oral health care is primary health care, and our campaign reinforces this very important consumer message,” said Dr. Lisa Christy, of Bridgman, chair of the MDA Public Relations Advisory Committee, which oversees the campaign. “The driving message of our MDA Public Education Campaign is ‘if you want a healthy body, start with a healthy mouth.’ That isn’t just a slogan – this messaging has worked to convey the importance of scheduling and keeping dental checkups, citing the link between good oral health and overall health.” Christy said the objectives of the campaign are to: • position the MDA and its members as the authority on oral health issues; • educate the public about specific oral health issues and the healthy mouth-healthy body connection; and • remind consumers to see their MDA dentist twice a year and find a dentist at www.smilemichigan.com.

“The 2015 campaign is the MDA’s most extensive yet, with a significant emphasis on social media, online search, and digital advertising,” Christy said. “MDA ads on various websites will present the MDA message to consumers and then provide direct links to the Find a Dentist section on the MDA website.”

Get involved ! You can bring the new MDA Public Education Campaign into your office by displaying the new “What Would Your Mouth Say about You?” poster and by distributing a new MDA brochure that more fully explains the healthy mouth-healthy body connection. The poster and brochure feature images taken directly from the TV ads. You can order both at the MDA Web Store at: www.smilemichigan.com/pro.

Be sure to familiarize yourself with the new MDA Public Education Campaign and talk about it with your staff and patients. For more information on the Public Education 20

Campaign, contact Jenny Armistead, MDA director of marketing and communications, at jarmistead@michigandental.org, or at 800-589-2632, ext. 412.

MDA Plans Job Fair with Exhibits and CE Attention, members! You’re invited to connect with dentists and dental students who are seeking employment at the firstever MDA Job Fair, taking place Saturday, March 21 at MDA headquarters in Okemos. The schedule for the day includes: • a complimentary morning CE session, “Tips for Successful Associateships,” featuring Dr. Reggie VanderVeen, from 9 until 10 a.m.; • a Job Fair Exhibit Hall from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m.; • a complimentary afternoon CE session, “Contract Tips for New Dentists and Employers,” presented by MDA Legal Counsel Dan Schulte, from 1 until 2 p.m.

For more information on the Job Fair, including information on exhibiting, contact Josh Lord at 800-589-2632, ext. 415.

RDA Delegation Affected by Dental Rules Changes New General Rules of Dentistry issued by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs/Bureau of Health Services went into effect last fall, with the most notable changes involving delegation of duties for dental auxiliaries.

The rules now allow Registered Dental Assistants to perform the following procedures under a dentist’s general supervision: • trial sizing of orthodontic bands; • holding the matrix for anterior resin restorations; • applying of topical anesthetic solutions; and • instructing in the use and care of dental appliances.

The revised rules also include language regarding performance of intra-oral procedures by a Registered Dental Hygienist. The language states that a Registered Dental Hygienist shall not perform functions exclusive to a Registered Dental Assistant unless the Registered Dental Hygienist is also licensed as a Registered Dental Assistant.

According to the state, the overall goal of the rules change was to align the rules with current law.

A revised Delegation of Duties chart for dental auxiliaries appears on the MDA website at www.smilemichigan.com/pro.

WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | WINTER ISSUE 2015

Catch the Spirit in Lansing!

MDA 2015 Annual Session Lansing Center and Radisson Hotel, Downtown Lansing • April 22-25, 2015

Michigan Dentistry’s Biggest CE Event!

SPEAKERS INCLUDE: Jill Baskin, DDS Michael Block, DMD Rosemary Bray David Clark, DDS Marcio da Fonseca, DDS, MS Robert Edwab, DDS Lynda Farnen, JD Choong Foong, PhD Marie Fluent, DDS Dennis Hartlieb, DDS Mark Hyman, DDS Cindy Kleiman, RDH, BS Gerald Kugel, DMD, MS, PhD Samuel Low, DDS, MS, MEd Michael Morgan, DDS Robert Murray, MD Ali Nasseh, DDS, MMSc Chris Salierno, DDS Henry Schein Experts Joseph Suchocki Char Sweeney Richard Winter, DDS Plus keynote speaker DAVE WEBER And others

Pre-Register Early!

Online registration opens in January Visit www.smilemichigan.com/pro Join your colleagues for great social events, a variety of topics and speakers and nearly 200 exhibits.

5WMDDS Bulletin Zac ad OUTLINED.pdf

1

4/15/14

9:58 AM

2016 Mission of Mercy Date, Location Set The 2016 Michigan Mission of Mercy will take place June 9-12, 2016, at Macomb Community College in Warren, the MDA Foundation has announced.

Macomb Community College offers excellent facilities that lend themselves well to a large event such as the MOM, said 2016 MOM co-chair Dr. Stephen Harris. The location is also within easy access to a large potential patient population, as well as within close proximity to a significant number of volunteers, Harris said.

Michigan MOM events have been held in 2013 and 2014, but no MOM will be held in 2015, Harris said. Michigan’s MOM is administrated by the MDA Foundation, the MDA’s charitable arm.

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WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | WINTER ISSUE 2015

Successful Management of Acute Dental Pain and

Managing the Endodontic Infection* Presented by Ken Hargreaves, D.D.S., PhD March 13, 2015 | Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park | CE Credits: 7 *FULFILLS ONE-HOUR PAIN MANAGEMENT CREDIT

A.M. Presentation: Successful Management of Acute Dental Pain This evidence-based course is designed to provide effective and practical strategies for managing acute dental pain emergencies.

The latest information of NSAIDS, acetaminophen-containing analgesics and local anesthetics will be provided with the objective of having immediate application to your next patient emergency. This course will answer practical tips and more using a lecture style that emphasizes interactions with the audience in answering common pain problems with useful solutions.

P.M. Presentation: Managing the Endodontic Infection This evidence-based course is designed to provide effective and practical strategies for managing dentoalveolar infections. The objective is to be practical. The biology of infections is used as a foundation to allow the practitioner to select the best combination of dental and pharmacological treatments to manage dental infections. In addition, potential adverse effects and their management will be reviewed. This course will answer practical tips and more, using a lecture style that emphasizes interactions with the audience in addressing endodontic infection problems with useful solutions.

West Michigan District Dental Society is an ADA CERP Recognized Provider.

Thank you to our sponsors who have helped to make these programs available to us.

Platinum Sponsors:

Supporting Sponsor:

Registration Form NAME

ADDRESS

ADDITIONAL REGISTRANT(S) AT THIS ADDRESS

Pay by credit card: � VISA � Mastercard

WMDDS retired member dentist – $100 CREDIT CARD #

MDA-member dentist – $250

EXPIRATION DATE/SECURITY CODE

per staff – $100 NAME ON CARD

SIGNATURE

per non-member dentist – $500 TOTAL:

PAY BY CHECK: Make checks payable to: West Michigan District Dental Society. Remit to: Elaine Fleming | c/o WMDDS | 161 Ottawa NW | Suite 511-F, Waters Building | Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503 | Questions? Call 616.234.5605 or email efwmdds@aol.com

T H G I N N O I T A I C E R P P A L DENTA l a u n n A h t 6

Presented by

MARCH 20, 2015 7:00PM VAN ANDEL ARENA The Grand Rapids Griffins invite your office to join us for all the fun and excitement of Dental Appreciation Night!

Last season, over 500 dental professionals, their families and friends enjoyed this special game.

This season’s Dental Appreciation Night will feature: • Special in-game promotions and concession specials • Discounted tickets for your office • Ticket proceeds benefiting the West Michigan Dental Foundation At the game, WMDDS volunteers will be doing a "Take A Bite Out Of Cancer" bone marrow drive to collect cheek swab samples that could save a life! If you haven't signed up for the registry, here's your chance. Encourage staff and family members to sign up too.

Sponsored by the Michigan Dental Association, Delete Blood Cancer, and the West Michigan District Dental Society.

For more info including the game date and ticket pricing, please contact Joe Yancho at 616.774.4585 ext 3023 or jyancho@griffinshockey.com /grgriffins 24

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But do you know where to get the best deal on quality exam gloves and masks?

We do. We offer: • Free shipping on everything • Special association-member prices • Help to find the fit, feel and comfort your whole dental team needs • 60 different gloves from five leading brands • Wide selection of Kimberly-Clark masks • No-risk, 100% satisfaction guarantee • Inventory control program Find out what hundreds of Michigan dentists already know. Get exam gloves and masks through the most trusted and knowledgeable source.

To place an order, request free samples, or for more information, please contact us at 877.484.6149. To order online, visit mdaservicesgloves.com.

Visit mdaservicesgloves.com or call 877.484.6149 today.

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We can help you build upon your success, prepare for the future and create a strategy that’s uniquely yours.

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26

WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | WINTER ISSUE 2015

WMDF NEWS

West Michigan Dental Foundation receives grant from Delta Dental Foundation to improve oral health in Kent County

W

est Michigan Dental Foundation recently received a $5,000 grant from the Delta Dental Foundation through its Brighter Futures Community Grant Program. The funding will help pay for lab bills for Adult Dental Services Program clients.

The Adult Dental Services Program provides dental treatment to low income, uninsured, working adults in Kent County. A network of volunteer dentists provide the dental treatment and lab bills, up to $750, are paid for by grants, such as the Delta Dental Foundation Brighter Futures Community Grant.

Grant recipients were selected based on a number of criteria including the number of at-risk children or adults served by the program, the program’s uniqueness, the level of community involvement in the program and the ability to measure results.

“Through our Brighter Futures grant program, we provided a total of $250,000 in small community grants to organizations in Michigan, Ohio and Indiana that are dedicated to improving the oral and overall health of children and adults,” said Teri Battaglieri, director, Delta Dental Foundation. “We are very proud to recognize the work being done by West Michigan Dental Foundation by selecting it as one of our grant recipients.”

Established in 2012, Delta Dental’s Brighter Futures initiative is dedicated to improving the oral and overall health and wellbeing of children and adults across the state through education, advocacy and philanthropy.

Program supports projects that impact oral health within its five county service area. Grants are generally limited to no more than fifty percent of the total cost of the program or project. Priority is given to educational projects, treatment based projects, supplies, and equipment. The Foundation does not generally support salaries, operations, or researchbased projects. For more information, visit www.wmdds.org, then go to the Foundation section.

About Delta Dental Foundation The Delta Dental Foundation is a nonprofit, charitable organization established in 1980, which serves as the philanthropic arm of Delta Dental of Michigan, Ohio, Indiana and North Carolina. The Foundation’s goals are to support education and research for the advancement of dental science, and to promote the oral health of the public through education and service activities, particularly for those with special needs. For more information, visit www.deltadentalmi.com.

About West Michigan Dental Foundation West Michigan Dental Foundation (WMDF) is the philanthropic arm of the West Michigan District Dental Society.

Besides securing funds for lab bills for the Adult Dental Services Program, the WMDF awards tuition grants to qualified dental, dental assisting and dental hygiene students.

The West Michigan Dental Foundation Community Grant WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | WINTER ISSUE 2015

27

LEGALLY SPEAKING

Legal Entities and Formalities: Making Sure Your Practice Protects You Submitted by Nicholas H. Vander Veen, Attorney, Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge

I

n an already demanding profession, dental practitioners can often find themselves in business and legal situations in which they are not familiar or comfortable. And, in a number of these situations, their lack of formal preparation and knowledge of the rules, laws, and regulations affecting their daily operations and decisions can lead to serious missteps and substantial costs.

One of the most common issues I observe among my dental clients, and many other small business owners as well, is the propensity to take actions that put their corporate liability protection at risk. Losing corporate liability protection can result from a failure to follow or observe the generally simple, but numerous, rules and corporate formalities. Whether it is because of a lack of funds, time-constraint issues, or a misplaced I-can-do-it-myself attitude, many dentists and small business owners fail to seek the advice and answers they need, thus opening themselves up to potential personal liability and piercing of the corporate veil.

Fortunately, for the prudent dentist who does not wait to take action or ask for help, a number of these common mistakes with the rules and formalities affecting your practice entity can be discovered and corrected before they develop into serious issues in the future.

I. A Separate Legal Entity Sole proprietors fail to understand that there is no legal distinction between the individual and the business (and all of the liabilities running a business brings) unless they form a legal business entity under the laws of the state in which they reside. This is especially important for a profession in which the dentist can be exposed to a high level of both financial and professional liability.

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Thankfully, over the past several years, it is becoming uncommon for me to find clients who are not operating as a Professional Corporation (PC) or Professional Limited Liability Company (PLLC or PLC). And, for those few who are not, it is a very simple and pain free process to do so.

However, while it is good to know that practitioners are becoming more in tune to the fact that a separate legal entity for a business is important for liability and tax purposes, there is often a disconnect or misunderstanding about what needs to be done after it is formed.

II. Identifying the Correct Contracting Party A mistake commonly made when entering into business contracts is failing to identify the business entity as the contracting party. If not done correctly and clearly, contracts (such as leases and supply agreements), debts, and other liabilities intended to be on behalf of the practice may be interpreted, instead, as personal liabilities.

For example, a practitioner forms an entity of John Dentist, D.D.S., P.C., but enters into a lease for the practice space as John Dentist, D.D.S., and the lease is paid directly by the business out of the business bank account. This leads to possible double liability for both the practitioner individually and the practice entity itself. Thus, both the personal assets of the practitioner (such as homes, cars, savings, etc.) and the practice assets are vulnerable in the event of an unfavorable judgment. Additionally, this failure to properly identify the legal entity as tenant on the lease may lead to a general liability insurance policy, if it was taken out in the name of the business, refusing to cover claims and judgments against the individual practitioner.

III. Full Name Versus Trade Names Another common issue is when a practitioner correctly forms a legal entity and then files for and obtains a “doing business as� (d/b/a), also called a trade name, for the practice to do business under. In the interest of removing legal ambiguity from contracts, it is in the best interest of the practitioner to use the full legal name of the business on every contract they enter into. For example, John Dentist, D.D.S., P.C. files for and obtains a d/b/a of Everybody Smiles Dentistry and then uses the d/b/a on a contract without the legal entity name. In WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | WINTER ISSUE 2015

LEGALLY SPEAKING

this example, it would be preferable for the contracting party to be named fully as John Dentist, D.D.S., P.C., or better yet as John Dentist, D.D.S., P.C. d/b/a Everybody Smiles Dentistry so there is no confusion as to who is entering the contract and who is liable for it.

IV. Signing in the Correct Capacity Even when correctly naming their company as the party to the contract, many practitioners will sign just their name with no designation of their title or capacity for the entity at the end of the contract. This creates an issue of uncertainty as it becomes unclear whether the business owner signed the contract on behalf of the entity, individually, or as a guarantor of the obligations of the practice. In the event of a default under the contract, and the uncertainty as to the capacity of the parties present, the practitioner would lose his or her liability protection and be subject to personal liability. The name and signature of the small business owner should always be accompanied by the title of the signatory and the name of the company in order to avoid personal liability. Here is an example of a proper signature block: John Dentist, D.D.S., P.C. d/b/a Everybody Smiles Dentistry _____________________ By: John Dentist, D.D.S. Its: President V. True Ownership of the Assets I sometimes encounter clients who have properly formed a corporation, but the entity does not own any actual assets or have a bank account, while at the same time incurring debts and liabilities. This typically occurs because the professional in this situation attempts to create what they believe to be insulation from legal and personal liability, with an incorrect belief that all debts and liabilities incurred under the corporate name cannot become their personal responsibility for any reason. Essentially, without any assets or funds behind the liabilities incurred by the entity, the practitioner has created a shell corporation that is a prime example of when courts would pierce the corporate veil and remove the personal liability protection for the practitioner in the event of default.

WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | WINTER ISSUE 2015

VI. Comingling of Funds In the same vein as owning assets, it is very important that the funds of the entity and the individual not be comingled. It is improper for the director or manager of an entity to deposit business revenues in their personal bank account, pay personal expenses from the business funds and/or draw cash from the business bank accounts. Such intermingling of funds and asset ownership of the business entity will destroy the liability protections afforded by the corporate form and possibly lead to tax consequences as well.

VII. Maintaining Corporate Formalities As noted above, there is still much to do after filing articles of incorporation or articles of organization. However, many practitioners believe that they have completed all the steps necessary to operate under their new entity and completely ignore the corporate formalities required by applicable laws.

Many owners fail to name any officers, directors, or managers of their new business entity. In some cases they have even failed to issue any actual shares or membership interests to themselves or other owners. This means that they have no evidence of ownership of their entity, and are thrown into panic when asked for the same by a potential lender, insurance agent, or other party doing business with the practitioner.

Additionally, by failing to name officers or managers, there is no person with authority to act or make decisions on behalf of the entity. This can cause issues when the company enters into a contract it is later trying to enforce.

In my practice, I create formation binders for clients in order to make sure that they have all the appropriate documents within easy reach and review when necessary. Some of the example documents included in this binder for a PLC are: 11. Articles of Organization 12. Certificate of Good Standing 13. Assignment by Organizer 14. Initial Consent Resolutions of the Member 15. Operating Agreement 16. Membership Interest Subscription 17. Certificate of Membership Interest 18. Record of Membership Interest 19. SS-4 Application for Employer Identification Number 10. IRS Notice of Employer Identification Number Assignment

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LEGALLY SPEAKING

Maintaining these formalities is a constant and ongoing responsibility since a failure to abide by the corporate formalities referenced above is one of the factors a court considers when deciding whether or not a creditor may pierce the corporate veil and hold shareholders or members personally liable for business debts and contracts entered into by the entity. Small business entities are especially vulnerable because the failure to meet such basic corporate formalities gives the appearance of the corporation simply being an alter ego or alias of the practitioner created solely to avoid the claims of potential creditors.

VIII. Filing the Annual Report One of the easiest, and often overlooked or forgotten, formalities to maintain is the need to file annual reports on behalf of the entity. Failure to timely file an annual report can lead financial penalties against the business entity or even suspension or dissolution by the state. Such dissolution may result in personal liability of officers or managers acting on behalf of the entity after its effective dissolution.

In no way is this list complete with all of the potential missteps and mistakes that can jeopardize the protections afforded by forming a legal entity. Just as in the dental profession, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. It takes the specialized knowledge and experience of an attorney to properly navigate and ensure you succeed in using a legal entity to protect yourself from personal liability associated with the operation of your practice.

Nick is a business law attorney in Grand Rapids who specializes in representing dentists and dental groups throughout Michigan and Illinois in associate agreements, partnership formations and practice purchases. He can be contacted at 616.458.5283 or nvanderveen@shrr.com.

IX. Planning for Succession Entities without bylaws, operating agreements, or separate shareholder agreements probably do not have a structure in place for dealing with unplanned or unexpected succession and change of practice ownership. This is especially important for dental practices that have multiple partners. A far too common example would be where one partner in a two partner dental office dies unexpectedly and there is no succession plan in place (in the bylaws or the deceased’s will), so his or her stake in the practice would be inherited by their spouse.

This situation can be ruinous for many practices without a proper plan in place and creates significant financial hardship.

X. Dissolving the Entity Finally, at the end of the entity’s useful life, it is important that it is properly dissolved with the state. One cannot simply rely on an administrative dissolution by no longer filing annual reports since, as mentioned before, it will lead to continued liability for the shareholders and members. Proper dissolution requires providing notice to creditors and a satisfaction of liabilities, if possible, before the proceeds, if any, from the practice dissolution is properly distributed to the practitioner.

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WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | WINTER ISSUE 2015

Updated New Dentist Forum Schedule March 5, 2015 Speaker: Dr. Jake Lueder Topic: Dr. Lueder will discuss the critical factors in treatment planning of anterior tooth replacement and identifying the possible risk factors. Surgical procedures including atraumatic extraction, simple and advanced bone and soft tissue regeneration, and immediate placement protocols will be shown. We will also review the economics of a single anterior implant and the fundamentals of “prosthetic tissue shaping.” Dr. Lueder will simplify the restorative steps from interim removable and fixed temporization to final restoration design considerations. The take home messages will be case selection and the recognition of successful treatment, as well as understanding what can be predictably achieved surgically and restoratively.

Location: Founders Brewing Company, Centennial Room Arrival time: 6:00 pm, Dinner and Presentation at 6:30 pm Sponsor: Chad Caughran from Straumann and Tracey Barrett from Dental Art Laboratories

Additionally, we will review how to establish a vision for your practice, become an effective leader, and how to develop an amazing team.

Location: TBD Arrival time: 6:00 pm, Dinner and Presentation at 6:30 pm Sponsor: TBD May 27, 2015 Speaker: Frederick Schaard from Rehmann Topic: Patient Experience – · What are you currently doing that you could be doing better? · When does the patient experience begin? · Who ultimately impacts the patient’s experience within a practice? · Keys to meeting and exceeding your patient’s expectations during their reservation. · Scripting – it’s not just what you say, but how you say it that counts.

Location: Founders Brewing Company, Centennial Room

April 30, 2015

Arrival time: 6:00 pm, Dinner and Presentation at 6:30 pm

Speaker: Dr. Tom Lambert

Sponsor: Anthony Lis from PNC Bank and Frederick Schaard from Rehmannn

Topic: The Future of Dentistry, Establishing a Vision For Your Practice. We will discuss the impact of managed care and corporate dentistry on our business models.

WMDDS TABLE 7.5 x 3.25.ait 1 10/13/2014 10:52:11 AM

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BRINGING MORE GOOD IDEAS TO THE TABLE.

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RICK CHRISMAN, CPA MANAGING SHAREHOLDER rchrisman@hungerfordnichols.com (616) 949-3200 WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | WINTER ISSUE 2015

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TECHNICALLY SPEAKING

Changes for 2015 Submitted by Greg Feutz, President, DDS Integration

Greg Feutz is President of DDS Integration, a Grand Rapids based dental technology company.

T

he new year is upon us. Still writing 2014 on checks?

Yeah, me too. We can be slow to change, that’s for sure. This article is all about change, the changes we might be seeing in dental computer technology this year. This will also be on our blog (ddsintegration.com/blog) where the links will be live, perhaps easier than typing them.

Tablets in dental offices – Please please please let this happen!

Tablets are everywhere. Kids have them at schools. Hospitals have them for doctors and nurses. Restaurants and food shops have them. We in dental seem to be the only ones stuck in pre-tablet land. Why? Software – Eaglesoft, Dentrix, Softdent, and others just haven’t yet made their programs friendly to tablets, or any touch interface for that matter. Trust me, I’ve tried everything. Remote desktop apps, iPads, Androids, Windows 8 tablets, none of their “solutions” are useable. Getting patients used to tablets is going to be challenging enough without the hassle of workarounds and the less than ideal functionality the software gives us now.

Tablet functionality definitely goes in the “let’s hope this happens this year” list, but there is some good news. Dexis has an iPad app! It’s called Dexis Go, and it works with version 10 of Dexis. It gives you a way to go through a patient’s digital images and put it in their hands. This is part of the experience dentists have been asking for over and over again, and Dexis has delivered.

With any luck this will just be the start. Others will likely follow suit, and pretty soon we’ll have capability for imaging 32

as well as health history/consent across all of the major software providers. Fingers crossed!

Website: http://tinyurl.com/n9m8vub Video: http://tinyurl.com/nvz8aby Security – It’s not fun, but it is necessary. Now more than ever. Just watch the news. Who did we hear about this past year? Target, Home Depot, Sony, and Ebay to name a few.

Not making the headlines were various dentists around West Michigan who contracted nasty viruses which deleted data and stole who knows what. Like it or not, this is now the world we live in. No one is exempt anymore. Just don’t let it be your patient’s data.

No one wants to go crazy with security because it limits functionality and costs money. There are, however, some basic steps that help get you a good baseline for being secure.

• Training – How to be a responsible internet user. How to use good passwords.

• Firewalls – Get one, and get the subscription that goes with it for intrusion detection and more.

• Antivirus/Antispam – Get something good. Ideally something that reports back to your tech company.

• Proactive monitoring – Reporting to your tech company so they actually know when problems arise.

• Encryption – For HIPAAs sake, for your patients sake, for your sake, encrypt your data and your email.

Cloud – Still not all the way there for dental, but it’s getting better. You’ve no doubt heard of cloud computing. Google email is cloud computing. All your data (email, contacts, calendar in this case) is stored in the cloud. Using Microsoft Outlook or another mail client is the opposite of cloud computing. All your data is stored locally on your machine. Cloud has a lot of benefits, the biggest of which are mobility and the ability to use it on multiple devices. Whether you’re at your office or in Hawaii, on a computer or a tablet or a phone, you can use your cloud software. Just add internet.

Curve Dental is the first big player in the dental cloud computing market. It has gotten much better already and overcome a lot of hurdles that traditional, server sits in your office, computing doesn’t have. Also, because it’s web based, the discussion about using tablets is a non-issue. Curve Dental WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | WINTER ISSUE 2015

TECHNICALLY SPEAKING

runs on smartphones and tablets, so most everything you can do on your computer you can do on these devices too.

Personally I’m still on the fence, but as it continues to get better I think we’ll see more and more of it. I’ve heard rumors of the major software players developing cloud solutions too.

The rest of the world is largely moving this way, so as it goes with most things in the technology world, dental will probably eventually follow suit.

EHR – Remember that thing that all providers are supposed to have? Technically, your dental software is probably already considered fully certified EHR. I guess I’m really referring more to universally available EHR, meaning your patients as well as other providers would have access to their data. Again, technically you can share this already via email or other online portals. What I’m looking forward to, however, is a single interface to store all of it. Whether it’s dental, vision, or medical, I look forward to the day that everything about my health is in one place where I get to manage who can see it and who

can’t. Care will be so much better when information can be shared readily in this medium.

This medium would need to interface with Eaglesoft, Dentrix, Softdent, etc.… as well as Cerner, Epic and all the other hospital EHR systems out there. Who is going to come up with this system? I don’t know, maybe I will. Look for me on the cover of Forbes magazine.

Thanks for reading. What do you hope to see this year? The next five years?

What are your thoughts?

Comment on our blog or Facebook article. We’d love to hear your opinions on Changes for 2015 or any other topic.

Facebook: facebook.com/ddsintegration Blog: ddsintegration.com/blog

Are You Protecting Your Most Valuable Asset - Your Professional Earning Power - From Loss?

Molly Murray, Your Professional Practice Insurance Advocate from Great Lakes Financial Insurance Agency works with dental professionals to help protect their professional practice income and expenses from insurable losses.

Professional practices have unique risks from potential disability and health issues, given their success is primarily from the principals’ labor. Are you concerned about your insurability, renewal premium rate increases, or improving your coverage?

Molly Murray will listen to your goals or concerns, then offer practical insurability strategies and insurance solutions for your unique situation ... today and tomorrow.

Nobody will work harder on your behalf to get coverage, remove exclusions or eliminate an extra rating!

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Contact Molly Murray - Your Professional Practice Insurance Advocate 616-301-2599

866-735-5344

WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | WINTER ISSUE 2015

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Mol

FINANCIAL NEWS

What Dental School Never Taught You About Choosing a Financial Planner (Part One)

By Bernard Bowhuis, CLU, ChFc, CFP®, CEO, Benchmark Financial Design Group, Inc.

L

ike many of you, I am a small business owner. While I do not spend my business day being concerned about oral medicine, extractions, restorations, or any of the other areas of dentistry, I am faced with some of the same challenges of owning a private business. Like you, these tasks include: staying up to speed on continuing education, meeting vendors and other non-clients who require my time, collaborating on projects, meeting payroll, managing my to-do list, and providing administration. While I am not working on someone’s mouth, I am providing financial planning for those who we lead.

My profession has also done a great job of finding ways to confuse the best of you. We have insurance agents, insurance brokers, investment advisors, financial advisors, financial planners, and financial analysts. There are designations like CLU, LUTC, CIMA, CFP (which are legitimate), and many, many more that are bogus or not recognized by the industry.

A recent Forbes article1 claims that there are more than 50 confusing designations.

What I have been told repeatedly is that while dental school teaches you about the profession, it does not necessarily teach you how to seek help with things like retirement and/ or financial planning. To help you make smarter choices with respect to your financial future, the following is the first of a two part article on how to choose an advisor.

Following are several key questions you should ask the next time you meet with or interview someone regarding financial planning.

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1) Are you a fiduciary?

I start with this one because a fiduciary is a person who has to place the client’s interest ahead of his or her own. Fiduciaries must also disclose what their fees are, how they’re compensated, and any other conflicts or potential conflicts of interest that might influence an individual’s decision to use their services. In contrast, non-fiduciary financial advisors might receive a commission in exchange for selling you a particular investment that isn’t the best for you – and not tell you how they’ve profited from it. The Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards issues Rules of Conduct for fiduciaries, which state, for example, that CFPs should define what services they will provide and only offer advice in areas in which they are competent.

2) How do you make money?

There are three ways an advisor is compensated. These include commission, fee-based, and fee only. I usually recommend dentists work with fee-based or fee-only advisors. In my opinion, this method of compensation rather that commission has less potential for conflict of interest. In theory, since I am compensated for my advice and not placing a product, there is less or no incentive to sell a product. Keep in mind however, just because someone is a fee-based or fee-only financial advisor doesn’t mean he or she is a great advisor. And just because someone is a commission-based salesperson, doesn’t mean he or she is unethical.

3) What is your educational background?

This question may look similar to the first one in that I like to examine credentials. Advisors often pursue many different professional credentials and many different paths. Some credentials have rigorous, graduate-level testing requirements that may set advisors apart from their peers in a meaningful way. However, as mentioned above, many credentials are nothing more than purchased titles or crash courses that award a title.

Some credentials are good benchmark measures of competence, due to their overall rigor, time commitment, and ethical standards. I am prejudiced, obviously, but if I was not in this industry and was looking to hire a financial planner, I would want an advisor of broad experience. The CFP® would WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | WINTER ISSUE 2015

FINANCIAL NEWS

be the most meaningful credential to me in this regard. If I were looking to hire an investment advisor or money manager only, the CFA® credential would stand out.

Keep in mind, no amount of professional credentials or higher education can compensate for a bad business model or a bad advisor. If your financial advisor has no professional credentials, you may want to ask why. If your financial advisor has other credentials I haven’t listed, you may want to do some additional research to determine the validation of the marks.

be happy to answer them. In addition, if there are any common questions that arise I will to answer them in print in the next section.

4) How do you invest for your clients?

How do you invest for yourself?

Ask the advisor to explain how he invests money for clients.

Follow up by asking what influences (academic and professional) have helped develop his strategies over time. Ask if this is different from the way he invests his own money.

My feeling (and rule) has always been that I would never place a client’s money into an investment that I do not, or would not, own for myself or a family member. This can be a tricky proposition because I am not always in the same financial situation or have the same goals as all of my clients.

However, the advisor you work with, or are considering to work with, must know all the facets of any product they represent and recommend. If there is any uncertainty or doubt, you may want to avoid placing your money there. Warren Buffett 2 has two quotes that are the basis of my personal strategy: “Never invest in a business you cannot understand,” and, “We will only do with your money what we would do with our own.”

I am not trying to over-emphasize the importance of hiring a financial planner, or other advisors. I know many people, from professionals to laborers, who have amassed quite large sums of money by doing their own investing. In addition, there are a growing number of platforms and internet sites where you can gain advice, place your own trades, and manage your own money. However, what I have found is that many times it helps to have an unemotional leader to give you direction and keep you on track to your goals.

In the next Bulletin, we will continue to look behind the curtain of choosing a financial planner. However, if you have some specific questions, please feel free to contact me. I would

Benchmark Financial Design Group, Inc. Bernard Bowhuis, CLU, ChFC, CFP®, CEO 2358 S. Garden Ct., Jenison, MI 49428 616.667.8834 | 616.443.4334 bbowhuis@mibenchmark.com | www.ddsMoneyCoach.com

WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | WINTER ISSUE 2015

http://www.forbes.com/sites/nextavenue/2013/04/25/watch-out-for-seniorspecialist-financial-advisers/ http://www.minterest.org/best-warren-buffett-quotes-on-investing/

Securities offered through Founders Financial Securities LLC Member FINRA/SIPC and Registered Investment Advisor

2016 Mission of Mercy Date, Location Set The 2016 Michigan Mission of Mercy will take place June 9-12, 2016, at Macomb Community College in Warren, the MDA Foundation has announced.

Macomb Community College offers excellent facilities that lend themselves well to a large event such as the MOM, said 2016 MOM co-chair Dr. Stephen Harris. The location is also within easy access to a large potential patient population, as well as within close proximity to a significant number of volunteers, Harris said.

Michigan MOM events have been held in 2013 and 2014, but no MOM will be held in 2015, Harris said. Michigan’s MOM is administrated by the MDA Foundation, the MDA’s charitable arm.

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FINANCIAL NEWS

Ten Things To Ask Your Accountant This Tax Season Brian LaFrenier, CPA, Audit Partner, Beene Garter, LLP order to comply, which is filed on Form 3115. Most practices should be filing a 3115 with their tax return this year.

Is the Personal Property Tax going away?

The simple answer is no – there is a manufacturer’s exemption for manufacturing companies that will phase in from 2016 to 2026. But, there is also a Small Taxpayer Exemption that is available for some taxpayers.

A

solid tax strategy should be worked on throughout the year, but as you meet with your accountant to prepare your 2014 return, take one last opportunity to explore strategies that may minimize your tax burden.

Here are ten questions to get you started.

How will the Tax Increase Prevention Act of 2014 affect me?

The Tax Increase Prevention Act was passed in December of 2014 to reinstate 55 provisions, including Section 179 expensing and bonus depreciation, which had expired in 2013. These reinstated provisions were retroactively applied to 1/1/2014.

Although the renewal came late in the year, if you made qualifying purchases in 2014 you may be able to enjoy tax saving opportunities under the extended provisions.

What are the new accelerated depreciation rules?

The act renewed Section 179 expensing limits to $500,000 for qualifying assets. There is an investment ceiling of $2,000,000 and other limitations. The expensing threshold was set to be reduced to $25,000 prior to the extension. The act also renewed the Section 168(k) 50% bonus deprecation for qualifying assets.

How do the new Tangible Property Regulations apply to me?

The repair regulations offer guidance on when a repair should be recorded as a repair or capitalized as an asset. The rules are very difficult to follow, but may offer an opportunity for taxpayers to correct mistakes on previously filed returns. The new regulations require an accounting method change in 36

How do I know if I qualify for the Small Taxpayer Exemption?

All of the taxpayer’s personal property within a local taxing unit is exempt if the combined True Cash Value within that taxing unit is less than $80,000.

This threshold is what is referred to as cliff, meaning if you have $80,001 of True Cash Value you will not qualify. If you do qualify, you need to prepare Form 5076, which is an affidavit claiming the exemption. This form needs to be filed by February 10th each and every year you qualify, and you must maintain books and records supporting the claim for exemption.

I sold my practice this year.

What rate will I pay for capital gains tax?

The answer depends on your tax bracket. Individuals in the 10% and 15% tax brackets will pay 0% on capital gains.

Individuals in the 25%, 33%, and 35% brackets will pay 15% on capital gains. Individuals in the top tax bracket of 39.6% will pay 20% on capital gains.

At what level will my Personal Exemptions be phased out?

For single taxpayers, personal exemptions start phasing out at $254,200 and are completely phased out at $376,700. For married, filing jointly taxpayers, the starting point is $305,500 with complete phase out at $427,500. The phase out is 2% for every $2,500 over the base.

The phase out for most itemized deductions is 3% of the amount over $254,200 and $305,500 for single and married taxpayers, respectively.

Your accountant may be able to help you develop a strategy to keep your income under the phase out threshold, and help minimize your tax burden.

WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | WINTER ISSUE 2015

FINANCIAL NEWS

When should I start saving for retirement?

As soon as possible! In addition to simply having more time to amass money for retirement, there are smart tax-saving strategies that can be employed to help minimize your tax burden now and later.

If it’s too late for 2014, what can be done to minimize my tax liability for my 2015 return?

Gaining a solid understanding of how your practice is performing and having your accountant run tax projections early in the fall will enable you to make decisions about the timing of income, expenses, retirement contributions and equipment purchases to minimize your tax burden.

How often should we meet?

Your accountant should be one of your most trusted business advisors and a partner in your success. Our objective is to help you achieve your financial goals in a tax-efficient and responsible manner. As a result, we recommend meeting on no less than a quarterly basis to review your financial and business goals.

If you have questions, or for more information on succession planning, contact Brian LaFrenier at 616.235.5200.

Connect with Brian LaFrenier on LinkedIn at: www.linkedin.com/in/blafy Like Beene Garter on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/BeeneGarter Follow Beene Garter on Twitter at: https://twitter.com/BeeneGarter

Your practice depends on the individualized service you provide each and every client. So does ours.

Tax Planning and Preparation

IRS Representation

Sales and Use Tax

With extensive hands-on experience in the healthcare industry, our team focuses on the financial and operational challenges you face everyday. We are committed to providing industry-specific expertise relevant to you, without compromising your patient focus.

Accounting Software Installation and Support

Retirement Plan Design and Administration

For more information please visit BeeneGarter.com or contact Brian LaFrenier at (616) 235-5200.

Bookkeeping and Assistance Start-Up Consulting Choice of Entity Analysis Cash Flow Projections

Payroll Processing

Human Resources Succession Planning Business Valuation Estate Planning and Wealth Management

Copyright Š Beene Garter LLP An independent member of Moore Stephens International Limited

Evolving your practice today for a healthier tomorrow.

Overhead Analysis

56 Grandville Avenue sw . Suite 100 Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503 . 616 235 5200

WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | WINTER ISSUE 2015

37

CLASSIFIED ADS

The classified ad rate is $10.00 up to and including 30 words; additional words 15¢ each. Space permitting, WMDDS members may place ads free of charge as a membership service. Ads should be submitted in writing and sent with payment to Elaine Fleming, WMDDS, 511-F Waters Building, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. Telephone numbers and hyphenations count as two words, abbreviations count as one word. Ads received after the first of the month prior to publication may appear in the following issue.

For Sale – Family practice in Grand Rapids NE that is part time with great potential, located in an excellent highvisibility location. There is 2050 sq.ft. with 5 ops and a 6th op is plumbed in. Opportunity for more footage if desired. Call 616.485.4884 for details.

We are looking for a confident, personable, and energetic dentist who has a positive attitude and relates well with others. You will enjoy the traditional doctor-patient relationship in a team environment, with the professional and clinical support you need to best service your patients. You will also enjoy living within a short drive from Lake Michigan, fine inland lakes, rivers, and woodlands. Swim, hunt, fish, golf, ski, or go boating, all within minutes from home. The area also boasts of fine restaurants, breweries, orchards, and vineyards. Live where many others come to vacation!

Candidates must be competent with all restorative procedures, and be comfortable with extractions, endodontic and prosthodontic procedures, and be focused on excellent patient care.

If you fit this description and are looking for a long-term relationship with growth potential with an outstanding team, please send the following documents to dentalcareerforyou@yahoo.com: Cover Letter - Explaining who you are, what you are looking for in an associate’s position, your qualifications, skills, talents, and what makes you uniquely qualified for this position.

Curriculum Vitae – Including employment history, with references, education, licensure, and current contact information.

Kavo Handpieces for Sale – 6000B have 5 at $400/handpiece, 6500B have 6 at $400/ handpiece, 647B have 8 at $200/handpiece, 640B have 2 at $200/handpiece, 649B have 2 at $200/handpiece.

Call 616-453-6323.

Dr. Matthew T. Lubbers has a PartTime, Soon to be Full-time, Dental Associate Opportunity – available in his successful, well-established, growing, and privately owned general dentistry practice located between Holland and Grand Rapids, MI. Hudsonville Family Dentistry offers the entire family a quality dental experience in a comfortable setting.

We are looking for a motivated, positive, and compassionate dentist with an outgoing personality who wants to make a difference in the lives of his/ her patients. If you feel you fit this description and are looking for a long-term relationship with growth potential with an outstanding team, please send your resume to: happypeopleapply@yahoo.com

Part-time Dentist needed at Ferris State University’s Dental Hygiene Clinic – Dentist needed 1–2 days a week to provide legal clinical coverage, conduct and supervise clinical performance of dental hygiene students, and act as a dental resource person for clinical dental hygiene faculty, staff, and students. For further information, please email annettejackson@ferris.edu or call 231.591.2284. Detailed posting and application available at https://employment.ferris.edu/ Panoramic x-ray unit (Gendex GX Pan. 70-98KVp. Film Size 5” x 12”) for Sale – Was in a good working order when disassembled by dental technicians. No longer needed.

Asking $2000 O.B.O. Please email to hanyb@juno.com.

General Dental Practice in Walker, MI – Two ops. Third room can be equipped. 825 active patients. New equipment. Well-maintained suite.

Lease transferable. Asking $100,000.

Interested parties please contact Dentaldad@aol.com.

Associateship opportunity in NE Grand Rapids – Busy, established practice; 3-4 days per week available.

Potential for future partnership.

Please call 616.742.6735 or email: beckwithfamilydentalcare@gmail.com

For Sale – Lab Master Foster Model Trimmer, Model # MT115, like new $400. Contact 616.949.7510.

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WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | WINTER ISSUE 2015

CLASSIFIED ADS

Holland, Michigan – Associate dentist needed for busy practice one or two days a week. Would prefer Fridays. A bit early but will be retiring in three to five years. Fee-for-service practice with no medicare/medicaid. Please contact Kate at 616.399.4490.

Part Time Associate Dentist – position is available at the office of Dr. Sam Bander, Cosmetic and Family Dentistry. Dr. Bander is a well established general dentist in the southeast Grand Rapids area. He is a graduate of the Misch International Implant Institute in Beverly Hills, MI and the renowned Kois Center in Seattle, WA. Dr. Bander is now a mentor at the Kois Center. Our office is a 2500 sq. ft., state-of-the-art facility with room for expansion. Our practice is completely paperless, uses dentrix software and all digital x-rays. We are a busy practice providing a range of dental services from routine prevention and maintenance to full mouth reconstruction, cosmetic dentistry and implant placement. The position is 2-3 days per week with the probability of growing and possibly progressing to partnership. Ideal candidate would have 2 to 5 years of experience and enjoy all phases of dentistry. Please submit resume to drsambander@ gmail.com or contact Dr. Bander at 616.949.5980. Visit our website at www.drsambander.com.

Dental Equipment for Sale – After merging two offices, I have 4 rooms full of dental equipment for sale.

Everything is in good shape and working order (no junk). All equipment is still installed and can be tested before you buy it. X-ray units, cabinets, panoramic, Dent-X 9000, Zoom, c ompressor, air dryer, suction, lab equipment and much more. Just ask me and there’s a chance I have it.

Please email me with your questions to: 123hanyb@gmail.com.

Dental Dreams desires motivated, quality oriented associate dentist – for its offices in Muskegon, Kalamazoo, Battle Creek, Saginaw, Flint, Ypsilanti and Eastpointe – outside Detroit. At Dental Dreams, we focus on providing the entire family superior quality general dentistry in a modern technologically advanced setting with experienced support staff.

Our average colleague dentist earns on average $230,000 per year plus benefits. Sign on/relocation bonus for certain locations. Please contact Kristyn McIntosh at 312.274.4530 or email kmcintosh@kosservices.com.

Exciting Opportunities – for dentists, hygienists, and assistants to provide children with quality dental care in schools in Southeast and Western Michigan. No evenings or weekends.

Email resumes to: jobs@smileprograms.com.

WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | WINTER ISSUE 2015

ADVERTISER INDEX

The Bulletin wishes to thank our valued advertisers who support organized dentistry by helping to defray the cost of printing and mailing.

Advertising in the Bulletin is seen by over 90% of the dentists in the West Michigan District. This includes five of the fastest growing counties in the state: Kent, Ottawa, Ionia, Montcalm and Mecosta.

For information on advertising rates, call Elaine Fleming, WMDDS Executive Secretary at 234-5605. Target your Market – advertise in the Bulletin!

Beene Garter.......................................37 DDS Integration..... outside back cover Davis Dental Laboratory................ inside front cover Founders Bank & Trust.......................5 Great Lakes Financial........................33 Henry Schein.............inside back cover Hungerford Nichols ..........................31 Lake Michigan Credit Union............22 MDA IFG............................................25 Merrill Lynch.....................................26 Smith Haughey..................................40 Studio 2 Dental..................................17

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FROM START TO FINISH. Our attorneys are here every step of the way.

Practice transitions Partnership formations Associate agreements

Contact Nicholas H. Vander Veen 616-458-5283 | nvanderveen@shrr.com

Ann Arbor

GrAnd rApids

MuskeGon

TrAverse CiTy

MARK YOUR CALENDAR West Michigan Dental Foundation Annual Golf Outing

Friday May 15, 2015

NEW LOCATION: Thousand Oaks Golf Club Watch for registration forms to arrive in March 2015.

Mission Statement: An organization dedicated to the improvement of oral health through the financial support of education and service programs to address the needs identified by the dental profession and the communities it serves in Kent, Ottawa, Ionia, Mecosta and Montcalm counties.

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WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | WINTER ISSUE 2015

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