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experience the Benco Difference. call regional manager mike Wade at 480-239-9502 or email [email protected] for more information today! 2 INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 CONTENTS

SEPTEMBER 2014

INSCRIPTIONSESSENTIAL READING FOR ARIZONA DENTISTS FEATURED ARTICLES EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE STATE BOARD OF DENTAL EXAMINERS 16 BODEX Update Evidence based dentistry 20 ARE YOU RESISTANT TO CHANGES THAT IT SUGGESTS? Confronting cancer 26 DR. DARREN BROWER GETS REAL ABOUT CAREER, FAMILY, AND CHEMOTHERAPY CAD/CAM technology 30 IS THERE A LEARNING CURVE?

EMMOTT ON TECHNOLOGY 34 What do you need to know? 26 USING PRACTICE MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE EFFECTIVELY Dr. Darren Brower (right) with his oncologist Dr. Manuel Modiano. Seeing stars at the ADA Management Conference This photo was taken before Dr. Brower underwent chemotherapy. 36 RECKLESS TEXTING ALMOST HOSPITALIZED AN AGING ROCKER 40 Everyone loves an easy button—until it bites them in the butt EASY ISN’T ALWAYS IDEAL WHEN IT COMES TO PRACTICE LOAN AGREEMENTS Loyalty is rare. if you find it—keep it 42 HOW DO YOU INSURE YOUR PATIENTS WILL STAY LOYAL TO YOU? AzDA COLUMNS EDITOR’S COLUMN 4 The great dental divide BRIDGING DENTISTRY’S MULTIPLE GENERATION GAPS

AzDA PRESIDENT’S COLUMN 12 AzDA wants you to lead IF YOU’VE EVER WANTED A CHANCE TO STEER YOUR PROFESSION, NOW’S YOUR CHANCE

CADS PRESIDENT COLUMN 14 Where are we headed?

AzDA MANAGING EDITOR’S COLUMN 46 Dentists got no love in Canton, OH THE HALL OF FAME’S EMOTIONAL DRAW FOCUSED TOO MUCH FOCUS ON THE MAN— NOT ENOUGH ON THE MALADY CE AND EVENTS CADS ANNUAL MEETING 15 Secrets of Profitable Participation with Dental PPOs—The Key Things You Must Understand

HEATHERLYNNMOFFITT.COM INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 3 EDITOR’S MESSAGE

THE GREAT DENTAL DIVIDE BRIDGING DENTISTRY’S MULTIPLE GENERATION GAPS

too. Ted wore shorts and t-shirts to work, which, INSCRIPTIONS EDITOR although he changed into scrubs in the office, made Eric K. Curtis, DDS, MA him look, in the parking lot, at least, more punky than professional. He avoided greeting patients in Some years back, I took a young, new dentist into my preferred way, by name and with eye contact, a my office. I’ll call him Ted. Ted seemed like a good smile, and a handshake. Instead, Ted’s acknowledg- hire—smart, observant, polite, and reserved. Our ment style consisted of a how’s-it-goin-dude mum- background culture was a match. We both had grad- bled to the floor and a mirror inserted directly into uated from the same dental school, albeit more than the target mouth. two decades apart, and I knew many of Ted’s in-

structors. I thought I was ready to manage a younger doc because I understood the role of an associate, which was not unlike being a student, from my own At first, I looked forward to these reviews, experience. I showed up, worked hard, and kept a low profile. I didn’t ask questions. I knew my place, anticipating lively discussions of diagnoses and and I learned to accept existing conditions, making do with the instruments and supplies at hand. I was alternative strategies. But I came to realize that just grateful for work. Simple. my expected role was less mentor and more den Except for one tiny detail: It soon became apparent

that Ted, while a thoroughly nice fellow and compe- mother, handing out goodies and praise. tent clinician, wasn’t going to play by my rulebook.

Although a quiet person, he expressed his opinion

quite often. He wasn’t shy about complaining. He Yet Ted still looked for lots of personal feedback didn’t like my intraoral camera. He didn’t like the lab from me. He took to waiting in my office after work I used. He needed more hours. He wanted another to discuss his day. At first, I looked forward to these assistant. Ted was never unpleasant, but he was reviews, anticipating lively discussions of diagno- insistent. And persistent. Other habits bugged me ses and alternative strategies. But I came to realize 4 INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 that my expected role was less mentor and more decried its moral bankruptcy. My dad relaxed to the den mother, handing out goodies and praise: Yes, violin strings of the Nelson Riddle Orchestra, while I Ted, you did great. You really pulled that one off. raged to Led Zeppelin’s screaming guitars. My grand- Good call on a tough tooth. Sure, we’ll order you an parents, who loved Cole Porter and despised Nazis, electric hand piece. Those veneers did look super. remained above the fray. There was only one gap. OK, I’ll cover your airfare to that meeting. I came to dread five p.m. Now the situation is more complex. Genagogue President Roy Ice identifies four distinct generations In the end, I couldn’t keep up with Ted’s needs. By a currently practicing dentistry: the Silent Genera- year into our relationship, when Ted let me know he tion, or Traditionals, born between 1925 and 1942; was looking at other practice opportunities, I was too Baby Boomers, born 1943-1960; Generation X, born exhausted to care. We parted amicably after eighteen 1961-1981; and the Millennial Generation, born months, and Ted moved to another state to work for 1982-2001. (Categories and dates are fluid. Some a corporation, then another, and finally a third state, demographers divide early Millennials, born in the where he entered a specialty program, for which I 1980s, into a separate category they label Generation wrote a letter of recommendation. Relieved to be Y; others consider Gen Y to be just a synonym for unencumbered, I chalked up my stressful experience the Millennials. Still others identify a Generation Z, to a case of mismatched personalities. born between the early 1990s and about 2001, the so-called “post-email generation,” some of whom THE CLASH OF GENERATIONS are now entering dental school.) Each category is notable for its distinct, and colliding, worldview. I was wrong. I probably misread the entire situation. Welcome to the generation gaps. According to population analysts, the friction I felt with Ted was likely not personal, but demographic, not the chafing of individual preferences but the clash of generational expectations. I am a back-end Baby Boomer. Ted is an early Millennial. Evidence compiled and evaluated by the Genagogue Institute, a Napa, CA, company that studies intergenerational workplace dynamics, suggests that our respective generations are too far apart for us to understand each other without some interpretive assistance. What Ted and I experienced was a generation gap. The problem is that time moves faster and faster. One century used to be pretty much like the next, but these days news travels instantaneously, whisk- ing along with it a fluctuating froth of technol- DISTINCT POINTS OF VIEW ogy, politics and culture. Such a constantly shifting Mr. Ice describes salient differences in each group’s reality means that each decade—or less—imprints sensibilities. Take job rewards. Traditionalists, who fresh experiences, along with idiosyncratic attitudes, aimed to build a legacy, tended to derive satisfaction unorthodox values and increasingly edgy TV shows, from a job well done. Boomers, in contrast, who set on susceptible young minds. People of a similar age their sights on prominence, find their sense of ac- grow up seeing the world through a similar lens, but complishment in recognition, titles, money, and posi- one dramatically different from the frames of refer- tion—the whole corner office package. Gen Xers, ence accepted as normal by other age groups. What’s who value freedom as the ultimate benefit, have more, the various cohorts rarely realize the dispari- aspired to a portable career. Millennials foresee their ties in their mindsets. career path as a Rubik’s cube, a patchwork of pieces The disparities themselves have widened as well. to be puzzled together into coherence. Eschewing The 1960s, which coined the term generation gap, other rewards, Millennials value work that promises saw age-related asymmetries as binary and dichoto- personal meaning and social impact. mous—either one position or the other. In 1973, for The factors that encourage people to keep showing example, my dad wore a crew cut, while my glorious up for work appear to vary by age as well. For Tra- locks tumbled over my shoulders. My dad supported ditionalists, it was peer pressure, because unemploy- the war in Vietnam as proper patriotism, while I ment and changing jobs carried a stigma. INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 5 Boomers, preoccupied with career advancement, saw Mr. Ice says, think that job prestige is important. Their job-hopping as a hindrance. Gen Xers, on the other top work requirement is having idealistic and com- hand, accept that changing jobs is necessary through- mitted co-workers. Millennials expect both teamwork out a career. Millennials, who tend to live in the mo- and technology. They expect teachers to know more ment, see changing jobs as part of their routine. than they do, and they crave more attention, supervi- sion and structure from authority figures. They need to Every age demographic also exhibits pronounced be coached more than bossed. They need life train- preferences regarding education and continuing ing more than just teaching (see Table Two). Over 90 education. Boomers want control, expecting to be in percent of Millennials place a high value on volunteer charge of their learning experience. Gen Xers prefer work. Failing to recognize and navigate such differenc- self-directed, independent study. Millennials need es can incite the frustrations I felt during my associa- interaction and active assistance. tion with Ted. Indeed, mixing the generations in the Each layer of this demographic lasagna separates workplace is fraught with misunderstanding, confusion neatly from the others, but the most pronounced and mutual irritation. division of all, perhaps predictably, lies between all Rattling off a raft of Millennial traits that alienate the older cohorts together and the youngest. Roy Ice mature folks, Mr. Ice observes that Boomer and Gen explains that Millennials have grown up in a milieu— X employers and educators have already written off one, ironically, created by my generation and the one society’s youngest grown-ups as sloppy, insubordinate, just behind me—significantly more indulgent than lazy, undisciplined, cocky, and unwilling to pay their that of their predecessors. dues. Millennials, for their part, don’t get the fuss. The older generations, after all, taught them to celebrate INTRODUCING THE MILLENNIALS their individualism. According to Mr. Ice, Gen Xers Technology is one issue (see Table One): A recent and Millennials clash most. The former tend to be study at the University of Southern California found very blunt. The latter, having been asked their opinions that the average college student can’t go longer than their whole lives, may mistake silence for disapproval. four minutes without texting or consulting social Both Gen Xers and Millennials need training in how to media. Parental pampering is another: Shielding Mil- communicate in ways that are polite, respectful, non- lennials from the consequences of their decisions has threatening and non-confrontational. produced mass delayed adolescence and a pervasive In the face of so many wedge issues, how can dentists sense of entitlement. As a result, this you-are-special of different ages reconcile their mutual misunderstand- (just like everyone else!), everybody-gets-a-trophy gen- ings, learn to communicate and work together? How eration has been programmed to become, as Mr. Ice can they find common ground, especially regarding archly describes them, “narcissistic praise hounds.” technology? All that cosseting, combined with high parental expectations, is taking its toll. According to an Ameri- EDUCATION AND CONTINUING ED can Psychological Association study reported in USA Manuel A. Cordero, DDS, of Sewell, NJ, in prac- Today, Millennials are more likely than other age tice since 1983, has a pediatric dentist daughter and groups to have depression and anxiety. Over half a son in dental school. Although he feels no real say their stress keeps them awake at night. cultural divide with his own kids, Dr. Cordero, who has also mentored many young grads through study Table One: Communications preferences by generation club activities, sees a generational rapprochement in Forbes, GENERATION AGE PREFERENCE May 2012 continuing education. He contends that dentistry’s most recent colleagues often harbor unrealistic Traditionalist 60 Face-to-face conversation expectations not entirely of their own making. “New Boomer 50 Cell phone call dentists are made to believe they are highly trained, a belief that justifies their high dental school tuition, Gen Xer 35 Email when in fact they are in a vacuum,” he says. Dr. Cor- Gen Yer 30 Text dero believes that dental Millennials’ most important task for success is to consolidate their knowledge Millennial 25 Facebook/ Twitter to match their confidence. “They don’t know what Millennials have emerged into adulthood, then, with they don’t know,” he says. “I call it an inflation of a dramatically divergent outlook. They rank lifestyle true understanding and an inflation of their self- and friends above work; less than one-third, perception.” To fight such inflation, ongoing training 6 INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 CONTINUED ON 8 INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 7 THE GREAT DENTAL DIVIDE—CONTINUED FROM 6 is essential. “We need to let young dentists know how critical it is to continue their education after dental Table Two: school so they can learn to do the things they already Generation gaps in the workplace think they can do,” he says. “When I graduated,” recalls Carolyn Taggart-Burns, Traditionalist Boomer Gen X Gen Y/Z DDS, of Omaha, NE, “the dean explained that the four years of dental school are just the beginning of the next 44 years of learning dentistry. “ Dr. Taggart- Attire Formal Business casual Business casual Whatever feels comfortable Burns, who practices full-time and still finds time to high-end low-end teach, took that outlook to heart. “I try to learn at least Work one thing a day, whether from patients, staff, or other Environment Office only Office only— Office+home— Office+home— dentists,” she says. Dr. Taggart-Burns also envisions long hours flexible schedule flexible schedule the pursuit of continuing education as an essential part Motivators Self-worth Salary Security Maintaining personal life of closing intergenerational gaps. “Learning the knowledge together and experiencing the same things is a Mentoring Not necessary Handles negative Doesn’t need Needs constant feedback great way to bridge the situation of one dentist treating feedback poorly feedback one way and another treating a different way,” she says. Retention Loyalty Salary Security/salary Personal relationship New dentists may be otherwise well trained, but they often haven’t received adequate instruction in specialty Career Goals Build a legacy, Build a perfect Build a trans- Build several parallel careers, areas, explains Vincent C. Mayher, DMD, of Haddon- lifetime with career, excel ferrable career have several jobs at the same time one company variety of skills field, NJ, who has practiced 27 years. “The reason may and experience be proprietary,” he says. “That’s why it is so important to get general dentists integrated into post-graduate hand, he says, his father trained the younger den- continuing education.” tists to a high level of professionalism and courtesy. “The most important thing for each new graduate is “We are an increasingly casual society,” Dr. Ghareeb to know and understand his or her individual talents reflects. “People have lost their baseline codes of and deficiencies, and where they fit in with the new respect, so they tend to treat everyone like their high technological advances,” Dr. Mayher says. Describing school buddy.” In contrast, the senior Dr. Ghareeb his young associate as bubbling with an enthusiasm imposed more traditional routines and expectations. that energizes patients, he believes that a new dentist’s He insisted that, instead of scrubs, his young pro- attitude is more important than sheer knowledge. “It tégés wear a shirt and tie with a white coat. “It was is refreshing to see a clinician who is excited about just good sense,” Dr. Ghareeb says of his father’s performing an upcoming procedure or learning a new old-fashioned notions of respect. “You can offend one,” he says. “Clinicians can hone their skills with time people by dressing comfortably, but you can’t offend and practice, but having a positive attitude and com- them by dressing well.” The same applies to using munication skills is imperative from the beginning.” patient last names, he adds. “You will rarely offend patients by calling them Mr. Jones or Mrs. Ramirez.” MEETING OF THE INTERGENERATIONAL MINDS On the other hand, Dr. Ghareeb notes that his father Thirty-something Steven Ghareeb, DDS, of Charles- stays in tune with the trends. He describes his dad’s ton, WV, is an early Millennial. Dr. Ghareeb par- adroit response to the first time he suggested new ticipates in what he calls a pseudo-group practice technology for the office. “I told him when I came with his father, brother and brother-in-law. All three on board,” Dr. Ghareeb recalls, “that now is the time members of the younger generation worked in the to go paperless. He said OK—he had already started elder Dr. Ghareeb’s office for a year or so before the process—and he assigned management of the branching out on their own. Each now maintains a transition to me.” separate practice at different nearby locations, but all four advertise together under a common name and Dr. Mayher also attests to the power of delegating take call for each other. digital tasks. “I wanted to run an ad in the local community newspaper announcing the addition of my Dr. Ghareeb considers that open-mindedness and new associate,” he says. “I had a few photos taken of mutual respect have smoothed potential bumps in us together in front of my office, and I forwarded his family’s intergenerational business model. On one the photos to her for her preference. The next thing I knew, she had used her favorite photo of us to 8 INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 Yet a dentist’s enthusiasm for tech may be Table Two: a function of experience and personality as Generation gaps in the workplace much as age. “Dentists can be both too leery,” Dr. Taggart-Burns considers, “and too eager.” She notes that dentists may get into tech- Traditionalist Boomer Gen X Gen Y/Z nology too much for its own sake and forget that its purpose is to care for the patient in the best

Attire Formal Business casual Business casual Whatever feels comfortable way possible. high-end low-end “To embrace new technology is good,” Dr. Mayher Work says. “To depend on it, not so good.” He warns that Environment Office only Office only— Office+home— Office+home— dental students and new dentists should be trained to long hours flexible schedule flexible schedule know the difference between “a new technology that Motivators Self-worth Salary Security Maintaining personal life has been sufficiently researched and one which has been aggressively marketed.” Dr. Mayher acknowledges Mentoring Not necessary Handles negative Doesn’t need Needs constant feedback that some mature dentists, perhaps timid, financially feedback poorly feedback insecure, or lacking curiosity or a continuing interest in the profession’s possibilities, avoid new technology. Retention Loyalty Salary Security/salary Personal relationship But, he says, “My experience has been quite the oppo- Career Goals Build a legacy, Build a perfect Build a trans- Build several parallel careers, site. Most of my [older] colleagues are quite well versed lifetime with career, excel ferrable career have several jobs at the same time in clinical technology.” one company variety of skills and experience United Nations Joint Dr. Cordero points out that technology’s value lies not Staff Pension Fund in its ability to impress or entertain, or as a symbol of the possessor’s style or up-to-the-minute modernity, but create a Facebook page for the practice.” With the instead in its ability to improve doctoring. “Technol- new associate as administrator, the office Facebook ogy is an aid to diagnosis and treatment,” he says. “The page took off. Dr. Mayher attributes the arrival of most advanced technology is that which helps advance several new patients to presence of the Facebook patient care.” What would the man who boasts a paper- site, which was recently featured in a local dental less office complete with digital radiography, wireless society course on social media. interactive cameras, a digital microscope, electric hand A mutual willingness to defer to the strengths of the pieces, and a scope for detecting oral cancer and other other generation is advantageous to both. Chethan soft tissue abnormalities select as his most important Chetty, DDS, of Los Angeles, CA, has practiced with must-have equipment? “Light and loupes,” he says. his father since graduating in 2000. “A couple years “And education. You’ve got to have the know-how. ago we made the decision to incorporate CAD/ You can’t fly an F-16 with Cessna training.” CAM crowns into our practice,” he says. “Obviously, I was worried that the change would be a tough one COMMUNICATION AND COLLEGIALITY for my dad, because he has been prepping crowns For younger dentists, technology may be the basis of the same way for longer than I’ve been alive. But he excellent—or at least the most interesting—treatment, was open and excited, and he does more CAD/CAM but communication is the key to collegiality. Joshua crowns than I do!” J. Emrick, DDS, a PhD candidate in the Oral and Craniofacial Sciences Program at the University of UNDERSTANDING TECHNOLOGY’S ROLE California, San Francisco, recognizes that the prac- One often-mentioned impediment to intergenera- tice of dentistry has moved from a patriarchal model tional integration is computer-based technology. to one of open discourse and decision-making, as Millennials are digital natives, so to speak, while the evidenced by such conventions as informed consent, rest of us are, well, immigrants. Dr. Taggart-Burns that includes both the provider and patient. Yet the graduated in 2002. She was an associate, working traditional controlling style may still influence the way more than six years for another female dentist, who established dentists interact with younger ones. In was 15 years older, before buying a different prac- dental school situations, he reports, “The teaching fac- tice. During her employment, she watched the senior ulty tends to minimize discourse and discussion about dentist inch painfully toward technology, including student output in the simulation lab. Similarly, certain digital radiography, cautiously waiting for the faculty members in our student clinic are less open second, third or forth generation of a given applica- to discussion regarding patient care and more apt to tion before embracing it. INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 9 determine the treatment plan with little consideration young colleagues. “I think for the most part faculty of the student doctor’s opinion.” lecturers have done more to adopt the current technology than the students have had to work without Millennials expect better (see Table Three). While Dr. it,” says Dr. Emrick. Because technology has become Emrick acknowledges that some communications dif- intimately involved with the practice of dentistry, he ferences may be personality-based rather than genera- suggests that dentists who are technological laggards tional, younger instructors tend to be more open to gain a familiarity with electronic health records, patient discussion and willing to provide greater positive re- management software, digital radiographs and con- inforcement and encouragement to students. Perhaps, sumer feedback websites, such as Yelp. he says, “Younger faculty remember the frustrations of pre-doctoral training, or they were educated in the “My advice to younger dentists would be to show some non-patriarchal era.” patience,” Dr. Chetty says. “Those ‘old guys’ have a lot to teach you if you will put your ego aside and just Millennial dentists may do a better job of communi- listen and ask questions.” Thriving experienced dentists, cating with both peers and patients than older practi- he reminds, have endured an evolutionary process, tioners, Dr. Taggart-Burns says. Dentistry’s promise is their insights born of experience. “I cannot count how still new and exciting to younger dentists, who are also many times I’ve changed something because I thought still experimenting with what information patients it was too old-fashioned, or I just didn’t like it, to only most want, need and respond to. Established dentists, realize it was the right way all along,” he says. for whom procedures are routine, especially if are not keeping abreast of new developments, may not Among the many other good reasons for Boomers and feel as inclined to spend time explaining care. “When Gen Xers to reach out to Millennials is the idea that there is nothing new to show,” she suggests, “perhaps supporting the youngsters will position the upcoming dentists feel there is nothing left to explain.” generation one day, in turn, to be able to support the older folks. Maybe. In their September 2012 Atlantic Regardless of age spans, relationships only work in article “The Cheapest Generation,” Derek Thompson dental practice, Dr. Mayher notes, where there is a and Jordan Weissmann worry that Millennials have lost clear commonality of purpose—the health and wel- interest in buying homes and cars, which together have fare of the patients, the practice, the doctors and the fueled the U.S. economy since World War II. Home staff. “It also helps,” he says, “if the dentists like each ownership rates among Millennials are down 12 % in other. Personalities can clash, whatever the individu- the last five years, while automobile sales have fallen als’ generations.” Dr. Mayher advises that colleagues by almost the same amount. Even the number of new who cannot get along, age difference or not, should driver’s licenses granted dipped 28 percent between accept the situation, part ways and move on. 1998 and 2008. If Millennials won’t buy houses and cars, why will they buy the dental offices of retiring Table Three: Managing Millennials in the dental office Boomers and Gen Xers? Take time to be personal. Know your people, and talk to them. Consult with them. Ask their opinion. “This new generation of dentists has the highest debt If you don’t know the answer, say, “I don’t know,” loads with the lowest remuneration levels in the history and open the subject up for discussion, with ques- of the profession,” says Dr. Cordero. The only alterna- tions such as, “What do you think the best course of tive to corporate dentistry, he cautions, is mentoring— action is? What do you think caused that outcome?” the oldest system of passing on knowledge. Mentoring is most often accomplished in formal settings, such as Encourage their growth. Millennials equate training association meetings, where dentists can learn from min- and development with opportunity. gling with other members. In the long run, Dr. Cordero Help them understand how the practice operates. muses, achieving mutual understanding in dental practice Millennials want to be part of the action. is less a question of age than one of identity. “Dentists need to learn to speak the same language,” he says. Pay attention to morale. Millennials are optimists. They are not cynical. Be positive, but always honest, The next time I work with a Millennial dentist, about situations and circumstances. I’ll spend more time on translation. Roy Ice, Genagogue Institute Originally published in the May 2013 issue of AGD Impact. Republished with per- mission by the Academy of General Dentistry. © Copyright 2013 by the Academy CLOSING THE GAPS of General Dentistry. All rights reserved. By dint of seniority and position, as well as their digital-immigrant status, mature dentists generally Dr. Curtis practices general dentistry in Safford. He is an accomplished editor, author, and professor. Dr. Curtis is Editor have to make a bigger effort to connect than do their of Inscriptions. His email address is [email protected] 10 INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 11 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

AzDA WANTS YOU TO LEAD IF YOU’VE EVER WANTED A CHANCE TO STEER YOUR PROFESSION, NOW’S YOUR CHANCE

In the May issue of Inscriptions, I introduced Dr. John AzDA PRESIDENT Kotter’s 8-Step Process for Leading Change and Lisa A. Lear, DDS featured the Leadership Development focus group report. I formed a diverse ad-hoc committee to Have you thought about volunteering at your compo- address two unmet Arizona Dental Association nent or state level but are afraid you lack the leader- strategic goals: ship skills to serve? Do you have a desire to contribute to dentistry’s future but don’t know where to start? 1) develop leadership programs for new dentists Then AzDA’s new Leadership Exploration And De- early in their careers, and 2) identify and groom new velopment (LEAD) program is for you! It is designed dentists to become future leaders of our association. to give you the training and experiences to become The leadership development committee has met by leaders in our association and actively participate in ooVoo video chat to plan a comprehensive twelve- the advancement of our members’ success. month LEAD program to be introduced at the 2014 Fall Conference at Dove Mountain. Apply now for the LEAD’s first class program created to extend leadership opportunities to new volunteers for CADS, NADS, SADS, and AzDA. It is modeled Announcement of First Class Members after leadership programs at the Michigan, Indiana, The first class of LEAD participants will be announced Washington, and Massachusetts Dental Associations, during the March 19-21, 2015, Western Regional Dental of which several have received the ADA Golden Convention (WRDC) in Phoenix. A mentor will be Apple award. The LEAD program will build leader- paired with each class member, who will be invited to ship skills through training and immersion activities attend the AzDA president’s reception during which at the local and state levels. No previous participation participants will get to know their classmates. in organized dentistry is required, just an interest in volunteering and contributing to your profession. 12 INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 Session One LEAD Candidate Criteria In June 2015 the class will meet in Northern Arizona Six applicants will be chosen by the AzDA Council for a 5-hour session of leadership skills and assess- on Membership & New Dentists. Candidates, who ment training, which will include an overview of must be AzDA members in good standing, will com- what makes an effective volunteer and how the ADA, plete an online application and be evaluated using AzDA, and local components of the tri-partite system the following criteria: support each other and in turn help member dentists • a written one-paragraph response to the question succeed. A class project will be chosen that is relevant “Why are you interested in participating in the to AzDA, organized dentistry, or dentistry in general. AzDA’s LEAD Program? Mentors will serve as consultants to the project. • two endorsements by fellow AzDA members Session Two • a complete and current CV The next activity will offer an immersion experience 100% attendance and participation is required of all on September 18-19, 2015, at the AzDA Fall Con- participants at each of the designated sessions. Reim- ference and House of Delegates meeting in Tucson bursements will be provided up to $300 per participant. at the Westin La Paloma. Participants will be intro- Graduates of the program will receive free registration duced to AzDA board governance, AzDA bylaws to the 2016 Western Regional Dental Convention. and policies, parliamentary procedure, and the guide for AzDA Delegates and Alternates. Class members Apply now at www.azda.org/lead to LEAD! The ap- will attend the Saturday morning AzDA House of plication deadline is December 31, 2014. Delegates meeting on September 19, 2015. Many thanks to the Leadership Development Ad- Session Three hoc committee who have the following assignments: • June 2015, meeting: Drs. Charlie Clark and Jen- The third activity will involve participation with the nifer Enos Council on Government Affairs in Dental Day at the Capitol, to be tentatively held February 10, 2016, in • September 2015, Fall Conference: Drs. David Ho Phoenix. Class members will attend a morning train- and Lisa Lear; AzDA Deputy ED, Beverly Giardino ing session to learn about current advocacy issues for • February 2016, Dental Day at the Capitol: our members and state governmental affairs. After AzDA ED, Kevin Earle speaking with state legislators, participants will be invited to tour AzDA headquarters that afternoon. • April 2016, WRDC: Drs. Pat Rabot and Andrew Zeiger Session Four To cap the LEAD experience, the final session will take place at the WRDC meeting in Phoenix on April 8-9, 2016. The class will present its group project and upon completion be recognized in a graduation cer- emony. The first class graduates will receive a LEAD certificate and free registration to the 2016 WRDC meeting. They will act as fellows to help mentor the second class of LEAD Program participants. The graduates will be invited to explore leadership roles at the local component and state level. Special thanks also to Drs. Brower, Clark, Cavender, Between Sessions Dameron, and Enos for appearing in the Lead pro- Class members will attend one or two meetings of gram’s promotional video: http://bit.ly/azdalead AzDA councils or local component/ AzDA Board Dr. Lisa Lear practices periodontology in Tucson. She is the 106th meetings. Participants are encouraged to become famil- president of the Arizona Dental Association and is a diplomate iar with the Arizona Dental Foundation, AzDA Perks, of the American Board of Periodontology. Members are welcome and BODEX/Peer Review. Monthly meetings will be to submit suggestions regarding communications and business, held by a video chat room to work on the group proj- budget and administrative to Dr. Lear at [email protected] ect and to discuss these additional meeting experiences. INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 13 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

WHERE ARE WE HEADED?

What’s more, an economic recession and third-party CADS PRESIDENT payers have only added to the unpredictability. Brett A. Dameron, DDS For thousands of years, dentists operated solo prac- The union of old and new has always made for tices. In fact, even as recently as twenty years ago, advancements in the medical arena. Even though only a small percentage of practices were based on dentistry has become a totally different animal in the insurance. Nowadays, we find the majority of general last twenty years, its origin dates back to 5,000 BC, in dentist practices have become insurance-based. We a Sumerian text describing “tooth worms” causing seem to be inching ever closer to the medical model in dental decay. The earliest known reference to dentistry this country. Patient bases are searching for help with was Hesy-Re, an Egyptian scribe, in 2,600 BC. Since their health care bills, and employers are using “bet- then, the first anesthesia, Novocain, was introduced in ter benefits” as a way to attract new employees. We’re 1905, and the first screw implant arrived in 1937. also seeing multiple-practitioner offices becoming more popular, some including multiple specialists. The Today, hard and soft tissue lasers, CAD/CAM, cone truth is the number of employee dentists are increas- beam imaging, and almost indistinguishable ing rapidly compared to dentist owners due porcelains run rampant through our profes- to the exorbitant school loans and extreme sion. The age of technology has propelled difficulty in securing a loan without a track us forward and at a brisk, often disquieting, record of professional experience. New pace. However, based on the core principles graduates have fewer choices than dentists and ethics set forth by our predecessors, we of years past. have a solid foundation. As it was in 2,600 BC, dentistry is still the science of diagnos- With all of these changes in mind, I re- ing, restoring, and maintaining the oral cav- flected on something hockey legend Wayne ity and craniofacial structures—the com- Gretsky said about what made him a suc- plexity in which we practice this science is cessful player. He claimed, “I skate to where exponentially greater nowadays. the puck is going to be.” [Rather than skating to where the puck currently is]. This logic Over time, our profession has morphed into isn’t far off what will make dentists success- what seems like a multi-headed beast—like ful in the future: The ones who will succeed something you’d see in a Harry Potter or Lord of the Rings will be able to identify where the profession (or puck) movie. The ever-melding of science, technology, busi- is going to be, and then they’ll position themselves ness, marketing, philanthropies, and entrepreneurism, (skate) to receive it. now defines this new role of being a dentist in the 21st Century, and I often believe many of us feel we must PS—note the CADS annual meeting (opposite page). The event be everything to everyone. Delegating tasks can aid in includes dinner, drinks, and a short 1.5 CEU course. handling this onslaught of responsibilities that dentists face every day, but the ever-changing environment in Dr. Brett Dameron practices general dentistry in Scottsdale. which we practice is unpredictable and challenging. He is the President of the Central Arizona Dental Society. 14 INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 Participation with PPOs are often the Clinton Johnson is founder of Profitable most significant expense a practice has— PPOs, a Phoenix, AZ, based company often tied to hundreds of thousands of lost/ specializing in helping dental practices partici- reduced revenue every year. As a matter of fact, it is pate more profitably with insurance PPOs. After con- not uncommon for a practice participating with PPOs sidering a chance to go into the family dental business, to have PPO participation expenses significantly more he determined that his interests were in the financial than lab, supplies, rent, and utilities, all combined. side of dentistry. For nearly twenty years, he’s worked with practices of all sizes, throughout the country. Clin- In this presentation, general practitioners and spe- ton is passionate about helping practice owners to both cialists will learn some of the different options and enjoy their practices as well as increase business profits. opportunities available to them when participating and how taking advantage of those opportunities can literally mean hundreds of thousands of dollars Central Arizona Dental Society in increase profit. Help doctors: Annual meeting and CE course DETAILS Oct 2, 2014 • participating in dental PPOs to see that there is Arizona Country Club home for improved profitability 5668 E Orange Blossom Ln, Phoenix, 85018 • who don’t participate in PPOs, but are thinking $47, dinner included // 1.5 CEUs of doing so, to understand a proven, strategic CADS members only approach that will allow them to participate while having solid profit margins Additional business: • Recognition of AZMOM volunteers • understand options for improving profitability • Elections with existing PPOs 6:00-6:30pm // Social • avoid common mistakes when participating with 6:30-7:30pm // Dinner PPOs that often result in hundreds of thousands of lost revenue. 7:30-9:00pm // CE

INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 15 ARIZONA STATE BOARD OF DENTAL EXAMINERS The NPDB routinely audits an agency, e.g., the Board of Dental Examiners, by reviewing its minutes online to determine whether an agency is in compliance with the mandatory reporting requirements. In fact, the Board of Dental Examiners recently underwent such an audit by the NPDB. The NPDB challenged 63 board actions or resolutions that were not reported. These were items that historically Board staff would not have reported, which included 48 letters of concern, two non-disciplinary consent agreements, three cases which are in litigation, and one reinstatement. After discussion with the NPDB representatives, they concurred that the letters of concern were not reportable actions. There was no definitive resolution on the non-disciplinary consent agreements other than they cautioned that if it is a “negative action” or “finding” (defined in 45 CFR sec. 60.3) it should be reported if it is connected to the delivery of health care. This matter is still under review. However, be advised that non-disciplinary consent agreements may need to be reported to the NPDB in the future. The good news is that the non-disciplinary consent agreements are not available on the website, and they are only available for five years if the public should contact the Board office. You may EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE wonder what prompted this change in philosophy by STATE BOARD OF DENTAL EXAMINERS the NPDB (actions that previously were not report- Elaine Hugunin able—now may be). It is Board staffs’ understanding I have previously communicated in Inscriptions about that there may have been changes in the way the NPDB the litigious environment in which we live. The interprets its reporting requirements due to a merger of Board continues to experience this through review- the NPDB and the Healthcare Integrity and Protection ing malpractice cases and observing how many com- Databank (HIPD) in May 2013. CONTINUED ON 18 plainants retain attorneys to file their complaint with the Board. The Board is required by law to review ALLEGATIONS ASSIGNED TO COMPLAINTS all malpractice cases which they receive notice of Inadequate Crown and Bridge 22% from the National Practitioner Databank (NPDB). Complications During/After Treatment 16%

Six percent of the complaints investigated in the past 2012-2013 two fiscal years have been malpractice cases. Many Inadequate Dental Implants 7% of these result in no further action. However, in Inadequate Oral Surgery 7% some cases the Board has sanctioned the licensee. If the Board receives a complaint from the patient, and Inadequate Endodontics 6% the Board has already reviewed the case as a result of Fraud or Misrepresentation 5% the NPDB, the complaint will not be opened. Unnecessary Treatment 4% The licensees’ attorney will assert that the Inadequate Crown and Bridge 22% Complications During/After Treatment 15% 2013-2014 licensee always documents an updated Inadequate Dental Implants 7% Failure to Diagnose 6% history. However, in this one particular Inadequate Endodontics 5% case, they failed to do so. This does not Inadequate Complete Dentures 4% GivenInadequate the litigious Oral Surgery environment, it is important to4% mitigate the lack of documentation. document.Unnecessary Many Treatment of the malpractice cases the Board 4% 16 INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 17 BODEX—CONTINUED FROM 16 Given the litigious environment, it is important to document. Many of the malpractice cases the Board reviews are settled out of court, in part, due to the lack of documentation in the dental records. As I’ve emphasized so often before to licensees, “If it is not documented it didn’t occur.” Many times, the licensees’ attorney will assert that the licensee always documents an updated history. However, in this one particular case, they failed to do so. This does not mitigate the lack of documentation! Cases may be assigned more than one allegation, and that the previous figures do not reflect whether the allegation was upheld. Of note, crown and bridge, complications during or after treatment, and inadequate dental implants, continue to be the most common allegation. We encourage you to ensure your information is accurate with the Board by checking your profile on the Dental Board’s website, www.dentalboard.az.gov. Ms. Elaine Hugunin, Executive Director of the Arizona State Board of Dental Examiners. AzDA dentists & allied members are invited to submit your most pressing questions to [email protected], Fax: 602.242.1445. Your question(s) could be used in future “BODEX Business” columns.

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18 INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 19 MEMBER DENTIST ARTICLE “I can’t keep working, but I don’t know if I can collect on my disability policy.”

“I think my insurer is trying to stop paying my benefits.”

“My claim just got denied and I need to appeal.”

EVIDENCE BASED DENTISTRY “I know I need to file a claim, but I have no idea where to start.” ARE YOU RESISTANT TO CHANGES THAT IT SUGGESTS?

Having learned the meaning of these and so many AzDA MEMBER DENTIST ARTICLE other terms relative to EBD, we broke out into small B Austin Willcox, DMD groups to go over an evidence review that docu- “I want someone to manage all the details of my claim so I don’t have to.” mented the statistical effectiveness of sealant use to reduce caries risk. I know many colleagues who are Many are scared and get the shivers when anyone resistant to provide sealants for their clients; perhaps mentions practicing Evidence Based Dentistry this information would change their minds. We were taught the basics of how to search for and (EBD). In fact, many equate EBD to restriction. review literature to find answers to questions we may The thought of being restricted to abide by the have about topics, products, and procedures. This is recommendations of someone else creates anxiety in very important, as we are often pushed to make deci- many of our hearts and minds. The truth is, EBD sions based on presentations from colleagues, manu- does not dictate how you practice any more than facturer representatives, advertisements, and speakers. DISABILITY INSURANCE ATTORNEYS your sound recommendations dictate patient accep- In this we must be able to recognize biases that may tance of a course of action. inadvertently creep into the recommendations. Offering powerful strategies for doctors with disability insurance claims. As I write this, I am on the plane returning to Phoe- I consider myself a lifelong learner and worked to nix after two days at ADA headquarters in Chicago instill this trait in the students I instructed as a dental immersed in the EBD Champions 2.0 conference. faculty member. Student assignments often had lit- erary search requirements to aid in the discovery of Contact us for a complimentary consultation. I attended the 1.0 version years ago and thought it new concepts. That being said, I have resisted taking was time for a refresher. the time to do similar searches myself, instead rely- During the conference we heard about such things ing on years of experience and presentations from as PICO questions, forest plots (not a place to find others. This way of thinking can lead to erroneous decisions. From an exercise at the conference, I have a spotted owl), Cochrane Consortium, P-values (not 480.998.7800 | www.disabilitycounsel.net what you think), Systemic Reviews, RCT (turns out a new understanding of the efficacy of triclosan, there is another meaning), PubMed, Gray list, MeSH… electric brushes, flossing and brushing in general. 6720 North Scottsdale Road, Suite 150, Scottsdale, Arizona 85253 20 INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 CONTINUED ON 22 “I can’t keep working, but I don’t know if I can collect on my disability policy.”

“I think my insurer is trying to stop paying my benefits.”

“My claim just got denied and I need to appeal.”

“I know I need to file a claim, but I have no idea where to start.”

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480.998.7800 | www.disabilitycounsel.net 6720 North Scottsdale Road, Suite 150, Scottsdale, Arizona 85253 INSCRIPTIONSINSCRIPTIONS | |September June-July 20142014 21 EVIDENCE BASED DENTISTRY—CONTINUED FROM 20 I have explained that while the excitement of the increased height of flight (extended night) would be thrilling, soon that would not be enough. They will soon beg for more slack, resisting the tension of the rules of the string again. It is at this point the conversation would turn to what happens if we take away the restriction and cut or release the kite string? Eventually they all agreed that the kite would drift and eventually fall hard to the ground. The moral of the lesson is that while the string (rules/EBD findings) may seem to control or limit These pleadings are freedom causing resistance, it is this same string that like kites: Eager to take ultimately empowers the kite (individual) to attain its lofty goal and fly higher. flight to more lofty heights You may be resistant to practicing EBD. Fear that and resistant to being tethered looking into EBD may prompt you to change the way you think and may lead to change in the way to the pesky string you do some things. If the change seems tough, remember the kite string and how it will help you to (rules/guidelines) elevate your practice to new heights. Your staff and colleagues may be like my children and resist or try to talk you out of these changes. Ask me sometime and I will tell you what the litera- Invite staff and colleagues to disprove your findings ture indicates as the most and least effective. The and look forward to co-discovery as you search the results may surprise you. literature together. I have vowed that the excitement I have coming Your patients may notice and ask about the changes. from this conference will not be filed away in a Tell them it is EBD. Then, assure them it is not con- drawer or put on a shelf like the workbooks and tagious. Tell them you want to provide what recent ideas from so many motivational, practice changing research has shown to be the best alternatives. This meetings attended through the years. may lead to practice growth as patients tell others I will search available sources for EBD information; about your drive to provide nothing but the best. review how I am practicing, and discuss indicated Join me in my quest to make 2014 the year we em- changes with my colleagues to improve the quality of braced Evidence Based Dentistry. our practices. For those of you still on the fence, I smile and say, I know there will be internal resistance to change. “Go fly a kite.” I expect my colleagues will likewise be resistant to changes that EBD suggests. I am available to meet with you as individuals and groups to present basics of the conference and how To this resistance I will fall back on my parenting to get started in EBD. I am looking into how to be experience. As father in a blended family of nine, I able to provide certificates for continuing education have often heard criticism from children who feel re- credit for attendance at these training meetings. stricted by rules. For instance, they would plead that if they could only have more late nights, they would be happy and would not suffer in their schoolwork. Practicing in Scottsdale, AZ, Dr Willcox, father to a family of nine children, is a 1993 Oregon graduate. He has experience as associate, To these pleadings I have expressed that they are partner and owner in private, group and corporate practices. He like kites. They are eager to take flight to more lofty has served as a CR products reviewer, dental educator and presenter heights (later nights) and resistant to being tethered at an ADEA national meeting. He is also serving the as a Navy to the pesky string (rules/guidelines). Reserve dental officer. 22 INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 AFTCO TRANSITION CONSULTANTS Helping dentists buy & sell practices for over 40 years.

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INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 25 CONFRONTING CANCER DR. DARREN BROWER GETS REAL ABOUT CAREER, FAMILY, AND CHEMOTHERAPY

One week after graduating dental school, Dr. Brower After seeing the physician, and within two-weeks’ time, packed his bags and headed out into the wild yon- Dr. Brower had an ultrasound, blood work, consulted der of Safford, AZ, to practice alongside Dr. Eric K. with an urologist, and had a unilateral orchiectomy. Curtis. Having everything already planned in his head, The pathology came back embryonal cell carcinoma, he had everything knew exactly how the first year of a highly metastatic form of testicular cancer that may practice would go. Life, however, had a different plan. spread to the lymph nodes of the retroperitoneum, the lungs, and/or the brain. Within a few months into practice, Dr. Brower noticed something: a tender, painful lump in an area where any Oncologist Dr. Manuel Modiano ordered a full body man would not wish to find a lump. This caused imme- PET/CT scan, along with additional blood work to see diate alarm, but like most of us, he just hoped it would if the tumor had metastasized. And while Dr. Brower just go away. “For the next month or so I thought I and his wife nervously awaited the results, they knew should have this looked at, but I had all of the excuses things were not positive the moment Dr. Modiano came to comfort me in my ignorance, among which was that into the room. A mass in Dr. Brower’s right lung was I had not yet established myself as a patient with any found. Tears rolled down his wife’s face. “As far as Dr. of the local physicians.” Modiano was concerned, at that moment I no longer existed. He rolled his chair over to my wife and spent the As fate would have it, while Dr. Curtis was out of next twenty minutes knee-to-knee with her explaining town, one of his longtime patients, who also happen to the treatment, the prognosis, and giving her time to get be a respected physician in town, was in for his period- her question answered. The time he took with her meant ic dental exam. Appropriate or not, at the beginning of more to me than the following weeks and month of the exam Dr. Brower asked, “Not to make your exam treatment that he spent with me because she left that ap- about me, but should I be worried about this lump pointment feeling reassured that he would return me to that I found?” The patient/physician provided a direct her better than he found me,” Dr. Brower remembers. response back, “I’d like you to see me in my office as soon as possible.” A liver and a lung biopsy were ordered to ensure that Dr. Brower’s liver could handle the chemotherapy and to type the mass in his lung. Unfortunately, what should 26 INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 have been outpatient procedure turned into a three-day at 9:00am for treatment. I was back to work at 1:00pm stint at the hospital, as a result of a collapsed lung and to finish out the day. Luckily, I have a supportive staff a liver reaction. After it was observed Dr. Brower’s liver who adjusted my patient load to fit my chemo schedule. was fine, they determined his right lung had embyonal cell carcinoma. Orders were drawn up and he began a strenuous journey through chemotherapy. Has this experience changed the way you Q and A treat patients? This experience has most definitely changed the way What precautions did you take with your oral I see and treat my patients. In the past, I may have briefly questioned the patient about their history with health as you headed into chemotherapy? cancer, not really knowing what I would need to do I was up to date with my check-ups and cleanings— if they were about to start chemotherapy or were luckily. I knew that I had a couple of crowns that undergoing chemotherapy treatment. I now am more needed to be done/redone, but no caries or oral familiar with the things they may experience, and we conditions that would need to be addressed prior to are able to connect on a different level. There is a chemotherapy. It was never brought up to me by the sense of kinship or comradery among cancer fight- oncology team that I needed to be current on my ers/survivors. dental check-ups. This may be part of their normal recommendations, as they are a very comprehensive team. However, knowing that I am a dentist may What oral health advice would you give to have led them to assume that that was not a necessary thing to cover with me in particular prior to patients who are also undergoing treatment? starting treatment. Have a thorough oral evaluation prior to beginning treatment. Patients who need head/neck radiation should be seen. Any necessary extractions be done to How has chemo affected your oral health? help avoid the future risk of osteonecrosis. Radia- While my oral symptoms were not nearly as severe tion treatment affects the vasculature and healing as what they could have been, I did have periodic capabilities of extraction sites. Chemotherapy affects episodes of mouth sores and general tenderness in everyone differently, but one thing it does do across the gingiva and tongue. the board is suppress the immune system, which may exacerbate existing oral health problems. It is not always possible to be seen by a dentist prior to How did you balance treatment and work? treatment due to timing and severity or urgency of To be honest, it has been challenging. The first week a condition. For those who may have already begun of each treatment cycle I had to be at the cancer center treatment, I would advise that they educate them- for four hour treatments—Monday through Friday. selves about all possible side effects, including dry The second and third week of each cycle was a 2-3 mouth and mouth sores. A patient’s oncology team, hour session, just on Tuesday. I would see a couple of as well as the American Cancer Society, is a great patients at 8:00am and walk over to the cancer center resource for education material.

Dr. Brower, 5th from right; his wife, Aline, 4th from right; AzDA life member dentist Dr. Kay Curtis, 6th from right; and Inscriptions’ editor Dr. Eric Curtis, 7th from right; along with their dental team INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 27 What advice would you give dentists who face cancer treatment? The same advice that I was given by the oncologist, and a little frustrated about, was to clear my schedule for the first week of treatment. I stewed at home—slightly annoyed because I felt good enough to work. He explained, “I would rather you stayed home during the first week (even being frustrated because you felt good enough to see patients) rather than a situation where you had a full schedule of patients but had to run to the bathroom ever few minutes to throw-up.” The other side effect to be aware of is peripheral neuropathy. This can vary for everyone, but in my case my thumb, as well as my first and second digit, became a bit swollen with a peculiar hypersen- sitivity and numbness at the same time. I worried that these symptoms would hinder my ability to grasp the handpiece and affect my How would you like to see What is the biggest hurdle that dexterity. Luckily, the only part it seemed to affect is the pain I had dentists and oncologists work keeps dentists and oncologists on writing my treatment notes with a pen (which might serve as an with the patients undergoing from working together? indirect a plug/support for The hurdle that keeps most den- digital charting). chemotherapy? tists and oncologists from working My oncologist, Dr. Manuel Mo- together is the same hurdle that diano, happens to also be treating keeps most dental and medical pro- What have you learned through a couple of my dental patients. He fessionals from working together: and his team excel at communicat- It’s a complete disconnect on both this stage in your life? ing with all healthcare providers ends. Physicians often do not see How much people care about me. involved in the treatment of a the oral health as connected with It has been truly humbling to have patient. I routinely receive faxed the rest of the body, and many received the outpouring of sup- updates on the condition of my dentists do not take into account a port and well wishes, i.e., calls and patients. Recently, he has even full medical history as part of the voicemails, hot dinners brought to been a referral source to my of- oral evaluation. It is like feuding our house, get-well cards, prayers, fice. When he sees a patient with married couples competing with and especially the 30+ bald heads obvious oral health needs, he has each other rather than working that are walking around in support referred them to me and empha- together as a team. of me (four of which are sized the importance of their oral my nieces—center photo of the health in conjunction with their image above). I also learned that cancer treatment. when trials arise, you cannot simply 28 INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 avoid them or pretend they aren’t donate funds to offset some of my there. Keep your head held high; put medical expenses. RMDCONLINE.COM one foot in front of the other; and Tyler and Scott knew I would feel learn all you can from the experi- SAVE ROCKY MOUNTAIN ence. Your strength, your love, your uncomfortable taking a handout, THE DENTAL CONVENTION patience, and your ability to truly but they told me that they wanted DATE IN BEAUTIFUL DENVER, CO empathize with others will multiply. to help in some way. As graduation JAN day approached for ASDOH’s Class 22 Rocky Mountain Dental Convention of 2014, a friend and classmate 23 20CONNECT What has been the most dif- called to tell me that the entire class 15RMDC ▶ DENVER,CO 24 made a donation to help my situ- ficult aspect of going through ation. Additionally, I was asked to speak to the class about what I was chemotherapy? going through during our awards Uncertainty of the success. Even banquet. Using this platform, I’d like The Colorado Convention Center though my type of cancer re- again thank my fellow classmates, sponds very well to the therapy, the school, and everyone else who DON’T MISS OUR there is always concern that it lent a hand when I needed it most. I am honored and blessed to have so EXCITING LINE-UP! might not work. After three cycles Dr. Steven Buchanan Dr. Sam Low of chemo (nine weeks in my case), many people reach out and help me. Ms. Teresa Duncan Dr. Henry Salama I still was not cancer free, and had to undergo an additional cycle. I Dr. Mic Falkel Dr. Maurice Salama am currently awaiting the results How did you handle questions Dr. Greg Gillespie Dr. John Svirsky of that cycle. The wait is agoniz- Ms. Rebecca Wilder ing. Will I have to do more chemo? about your treatment? ...and many more! Will they have to surgically remove When I knew I was going to be the rest, or am I cancer free? Ques- receiving chemotherapy treatment, I tions like these continually crowd stopped shaving and cutting my hair. the other thoughts in my head. By the time my hair began falling out, I had grown a great mustache and beard that even a lumberjack would Visit RMDCONLINE.COM for all How do you think this experi- have admired. However, my patients upcoming 2015 RMDC courses were jolted by seeing my burly face ence will shape your life? one day and a bald hairless head the I am unsure how this experi- next. In fact, one patient who came in ence will affect my life in the for treatment began telling me what future. However, I’ve found that the “other” dentist had done and rec- other cancer survivors have all had ommended. I looked in her chart and certain strength about them—a discovered I was the only dentist she strength that was forged through had seen. She indicated the dentist Be sure to checkout the RMDC HANDS-ON COURSES being held at the: such a difficult ordeal. I hope to she’d seen was younger. I responded, MOUNTAIN WEST develop the same strength. “You mean me with a beard and hair, DENTAL INSTITUTE! right?” It took her a moment, but the • 140-seat Auditorium (can be divided in 2) light bulb went off, and we shared a • Banquet Hall How did the dental community • 20-seat Executive Board Room good laugh. Most patients playfully • Hands-on Learning Lab Benches for 36 participants teased me about my bald head, others • Large Wet Lab react to your news? • Four (4) Educational Operatories wished me well, and some patients including one (1) equipped for surgery Two of my best friends in my even prayed for me on the spot. • 2D/3D Digital Imaging Suite graduating class, Tyler Owens and • Planmeca PlanScan™ (mill & scanner) • Equipped to capture and stream live video Scott Holm, told me they emailed • MDDS members receive a 15% discount our fellow classmates and the Update, 8/27 • Multi-day & multi-room discounts are available • A/V always included dental school on what I was going Dr. Brower reported today that he’s • No catering restrictions The MWDI is owned and operated by the Metro Denver Dental Society through with the cancer treatment. received the results of his bloodwork • Free Wi-Fi • Two (2) free parking structures They also set up an account in my and CT scan, and they have come name for anyone who would like to back clean. He is cancer free MWDI.ORG

INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 29 MEMBER DENTIST ARTICLE

COMPUTER-AIDED DESIGN AND COMPUTER-AIDED MANUFACTURING (CAD/CAM) TECHNOLOGY IS THERE A LEARNING CURVE? these questions are associated with 33 MOL (mesio-occlusal lingual) MEMBER DENTIST ARTICLE the nature of the learning curve onlay restorations on pre-prepared Dr. Aseel Murad necessary to achieve clinical excel- typodont teeth (Kilgore®) using lence. Questions like time, skills, e.max ceramic restorative material. It is no surprise that chair side and the experience necessary after This phase was self paced and CAD/CAM technology is gaining acquiring the equipment, and the with no input provided from popularity in the dental field. initial training before the dentist is faculty members. capable of obtaining clinically ac- In the last decade the technology ceptable restorations. Each restoration was numbered has witnessed remarkable advances in the sequence of fabrication and in all of the phases involved. While As in any new technology and bonded with the Multilink Adhesive the cost of acquiring the equip- acquired skill, it is important to system (Ivoclar Vivadent). Restora- ment is still relatively high, im- recognize the existence of a learn- tions were evaluated by the students provements in the technology and ing curve to avoid discouragement under a 20 power (20X) micro- the wide range of available restor- and frustration. But how long is scope. The information learned ative materials have made the use the learning curve? from the evaluation of each restoration was used by the students to of CAD/CAM technology predict- At Midwestern University College able, profitable and convenient. In overcome design problems with the of Dental Medicine, we decided to subsequent restorations. fact chair side CAD/CAM technol- find some answers to these ques- ogy is a part of an unprecedented tions. This article will discuss the After the completion of this phase, digital revolution in the dental field. results of a study that was con- all restorations were then subjected The integration that is now possible ducted to evaluate the learning to SEM (Scanning Electron Micro- among the different digital compo- curve required for a dental student scope) imaging to measure margin- nents of a dental office provides to fabricate clinically acceptable al gaps to determine how the mar- the dentist with a high level of restorations using CAD/CAM ginal accuracy of the restorations flexibility, creativity, and efficiency, technology. While there are several improved with successive attempts. which enables excellence in patient requirements for a clinically ac- Six specific points where measured care, and provides the dentist with a ceptable restoration, our study was on each restoration. After calcu- competitive advantage. limited to detecting marginal fit. lating the findings, our observa- tions showed that approximately Mastering chair side CAD/CAM Three dental students in the first is necessary to reach the full 15-20 restorations were needed and second year of dental school before significant improvements potential of the technology, but were trained and mentored for two apprehension still surrounds the were demonstrated. Students were weeks by two faculty members on able to progressively improve the process. Questions on efficiency, using the E4D system, during this predictability and accuracy are still marginal fit of the restorations by period each student completed 2-5 continually critiquing the results some of the concerns for dentists CAD/CAM restorations. Over who are considering acquiring and refining their technique in the the next month, using the E4D designing phase of the restoration the technology. Understandably, System, each student fabricated 30- 30 INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 CONTINUED ON 32 800.641.4179 [email protected] | WESTERNPRACTICESALES.COM | ADSTRANSITIONS.COM

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* Western Practice Sales is a member of American Dental Sales (ADS Transitions), a nationally recognized organization of dental practice brokers throughout the United States. ADS members have a strategic alliance & combined marketing efforts with other practice brokerage firms, financial companies & lending organizations. All ADS companies are independently owned and operated. INSCRIPTIONSINSCRIPTIONS | |September June-July 20142014 31 CAD/CAM—CONTINUED FROM 30 fabrication. We acknowledge that ment. It is also important to men- the students might have had the tion that our study was conducted advantage of belonging to a tech- in a controlled lab setting, whereas Improve patient retention nologically savvy generation, but in a clinical setting, case selection is at the same time it is important to an absolute essential aspect of the Improve patient care take into consideration the limited learning curve and long-term clini- Improve patient dental IQ and level of experience a student has in cal success. promotion of overall health comparison to a seasoned dentist. Increase productivity In a polling of faculty members How does this translate to private at Midwestern University College Improve patient trust and loyalty practice? The conclusion that can of Dental Medicine who have had Improve patient comunication be drawn from this study is that many years of experience with the initial basic training might be CAD/CAM technology in private enough to familiarize the operator practice and/or clinical experience with the software and the work- at Midwestern University, the con- flow of the system, but in order sensus was that an average of 25 to achieve consistent results, the restorations were needed to consis- dentist must negotiate the learning tently obtain clinically acceptable phase with a process of repetition; results and achieve a reasonable where the restorations are ana- comfort level. This is in agreement lyzed, and errors are identified and with Trost, Stines, and Burt1, who corrected, resulting in more repro- stated, referring to CAD/CAM ducible and predictable outcomes. “The majority of dentists achieve an acceptable comfort level after To apply this in a private practice creating and placing approximately setting, learning may be achieved by 20 to 30 restorations.” In conclusion, while the learning initially fabricating multiple restora- curve is an individual experience, tions on prepared stone diagnostic the collected information in this article points to a relatively moderate dental models or typodonts. learning curve. An informed and educated approach of the tech- As in any learning process, it is nology is crucial for its successful understandable that it will vary in- implementation in dental practice; dividually. Since our study concen- knowing the limitations of the trated on marginal fit alone, the op- technology, proper case selection, erator should take advantage of the critically analyzing the results, and repetition process involved in this continuous learning will further the learning, to negotiate other design learning process. requirements. Repetition will bring consistency in preparation design, 1. Making Informed Decisions about Incorporating a CAD/CAM System into marginal fit, contact tightness, and Dental Practice occlusion. All of these areas are critical to the practicing dentists to Lori Trost, Suzette Stines and Lorri Burt J Am Dent Assoc 2006;137;32-36 save time and remakes. Primary author: To apply this in a private practice Aseel Murad BDS, DMD setting, learning may be achieved Assistant Professor by initially fabricating multiple Co-authors: P. Bradford Smith, DDS restorations on prepared stone Associate Professor diagnostic dental models or ty- Jay Morrow, DDS podonts. This way, the subtleties Assistant Professor and nuances inherent in the learn- Teresa Pulido, DDS, MS ing of a new technology can be Assistant Professor addressed in a controlled environ- Midwestern University College of Dental 32 INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 Medicine (Arizona campus) Thursday, October 16, 2014 ~ 6-9pm Montelucia Resort & Spa 4949 E Lincoln Drive Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

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INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 33 WHAT DO YOU NEED TO KNOW? USING PRACTICE MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE EFFECTIVELY

Every dental team member does not need to be a EMMOTT ON TECHNOLOGY mouse master with intimate knowledge of every click Larry Emmott, DDS and cranny of the software. However, every dental team member including the dentist does need to un- The three most important items that a dentist needs derstand the basics of the technology, as well as mas- to use technology effectively are training, training, ter tasks that are specific to their area of responsibility. and training. There are six distinct areas that the doctor and team will need to understand in order to use practice man- Commonly, a dental office will receive two days agement software effectively. These are: of intense training, when they first purchase their practice management system. With human capacity 1. General use of the software: This would in- being limited, most of us stop learning after the first clude how to open it, how to find a patient, and half-day and then forget anything we don’t apply in how to find a specific procedure or appointment. the next few days. 2. Charting: That is entering treatment, creating Fast forward a few months after the initial training treatment plans, and entering procedure notes. and let’s suppose that a new person is hired on to Charting also includes linking to diagnostic aids the dental team, another team member moves out like radiographs, photos, and perio pocket charting. of town, and a software update is released. Suddenly, 3. Finance: This would include making an estimate the two days of initial intense training aren’t doing and creating and sending insurance claims, bill- that much good. As a result, no one is adequately ing, and entering payments. trained in using the system, the office all but stops using it, and the doctor just spent a lot of money on 4. Scheduling: Creating new appointments and a system no one in the office is using. What is worse, finding existing appointments. they don’t even know what they don’t know. 5. Communications: Maintaining patient contact and insurance information. Sending correspon- Ongoing training is critical. That means at least one dence, insurance, re-call, and confirmations. day a year on the general system and special directed training for critical systems. 6. Administration: Compiling numbers running reports and maintaining security. 34 INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 to know how to chart treatment that the dentist pre- DENTIST scribes in the hygiene room, as well as any treatment The dentist needs to concentrate on the above the hygienist actually does. The hygienist must know items numbered 1, 2, and 6. He/she must be able to how to set up continuing care procedures, schedule launch the software, find a patient record or appoint- appointments for recall, and how to use the patient ment, and enter treatment if data to communicate with recall information either needed. However, the doc- through online services, tor’s primary duty is to main- e-mail, or direct mail. tain the dental record and to manage the practice. For that reason, the dentist needs to ADMINISTRATOR be able to find a specific pro- The front desk business cedure in the patient chart, administrator needs to know and then retrieve and edit everything. The only item existing procedure notes, or they can routinely leave to enter new notes. The dentist others is charting (list item needs to be able to run finan- number 2). The administra- cial reports, understand what tor’s primary duty will be they mean, and how to create finance (list item number custom reports. The dentist 3). They are the only team also needs to understand and member with responsibility administer the security fea- in this area. Therefore, they tures of the software, such will need to know how to as passwords. create a treatment plan and an estimate, how to determine insurance benefits, how ASSISTANT to submit claims, and how to The clinical dental assistant manage the patient ledger. should concentrate on the above items numbered 1 and The administrator has pri- 2. The assistant needs to be mary responsibility for the able to launch the software, schedule. The administrator find a patient record or ap- will need to know how use pointment, and enter treat- the system to communicate. ment. The chairside assistant This means correspondence, must also know how to find re-care, insurance claims, an image, either a photo or and appointment reminders. an x-ray, specific to a proce- For the most part, the com- dure, and then display it for munication activities can and the dentist to refer to during should be done using online treatment. The assistant is primarily responsible for e-services. Finally, the admin- chart entries; therefore, he/she needs to know how istrator will have shared responsibility with the dentist to enter treatment. That includes existing treatment, for creating financial reports. planned treatment, and completed treatment. The The future is clearly digital. We will be using comput- assistant will also need to know how to enter and edit ers more, not less as time goes by. The sooner you procedure notes. More advanced practices may also learn, the better. The future is coming, and it will require the assistant to learn item numbered 4 and be amazing! schedule from the treatment rooms. HYGIENIST The dental hygienist has four items to learn from the Dr. Larry Emmott has practiced general dentistry in Phoenix for above items numbered 1, 2, 3, and 5. He/she will over thirty years. However, he is best known as a speaker, writer, need to know how to launch the software and find a and consultant in the area of high-tech digital dentistry. patient record. Beyond that, the hygienist will need www.emmottontechnology.com INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 35 bodyguard’s annoyance with me (he remembered earlier that evening I flattened his boss in the elevator, but I got the feeling Mr. Tyler didn’t remember). We all got back into the elevator—heading up this time—and what do you think the aging rock star said to me? He wanted to know what I did for a living. After hearing that I work for a state dental association, he thought it appropriate to show me his teeth. I am just happy he didn’t ask for an exam—I didn’t have the heart to tell him I only play a dentist on television. When the elevator car came to a stop, the doors opened, and then he shook my hand. “Very nice guy, and cool,” I thought. This was a great end- ing to my last day in Chicago for an ADA Manage- ment Conference, and I slept peacefully that night— knowing that Steven Tyler did not die due to my reckless texting. SEEING STARS AT THE ADA September 2014 MANAGEMENT CONFERENCE RECKLESS TEXTING ALMOST HOSPITALIZED AN AGING ROCKER INSCRIPTIONSESSENTIAL READING FOR ARIZONA DENTISTS Volume 28, Number 8, September 2014 AzDA MANAGER OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Journal of the Arizona Dental Association Terry Xelowski Serving Central, Northern, and Southern Arizona Dental Societies I walked out of my hotel room heading to dinner EDITORIAL STAFF Eric K. Curtis, DDS, Editor tonight—texting my favorite daughter Stephanie as Jeremy Tuber, Managing Editor I was walking. Adults, don’t try this at home (kids seem to have a better knack for this). I got to the AzDA EDITORIAL BOARD elevators and pressed the down button. Ding, ding, Eric K. Curtis, DDS, Chair Timothy G. Wilson, DDS Brien V. Harvey, DDS Bobby Y. Yang, DDS and ding again, the elevator chirped. As the doors John R. Carson, DDS Robert H Foster, DDS opened, I jumped right into the elevator—mind you, N. Paul Kline, DDS Robert S. Roda, DDS Kacy J. La Fleur, DDS while I was still texting. BAM. I walked right into someone coming out of the elevator, knocking him AzDA BOARD OF TRUSTEES clear to the back of the car. As he stumbled back to Lisa A. Lear, DDS, President Allison B. House, DMD, President-elect his feet, I recognize his face. “Holy moly— Jacqueline Allen, DDS, Secretary-Treasurer I almost killed Aerosmith’s lead singer Steven Tyler!” Gregory M. Pafford, DDS, Past President Pat Rabot, DMD, CADS Trustee I screamed to myself. Brian Powley, DDS, CADS Trustee B.J. Henkenius, DDS, NADS Trustee Leslie Seaman, DDS, NADS Trustee I grabbed his arm and apologized profusely, “I am so Thomas Kramkowski, DDS, SADS Trustee sorry, are you okay?” Michael LaCorte, DDS, SADS Trustee Kevin Earle, MPH, Executive Director, Ex Officio Anthony Caputo, DDS, Ex Officio “Yes, yes, I’m fine, thank you,” was all he said before heading (albeit, a little dazed) down the hall. INSCRIPTIONS is the journal of the Arizona Dental Association (AzDA). All views expressed herein are not to be regarded as the views of AzDA. INSCRIPTIONS is published under the leadership of the AzDA Council on Communications. Neither the Council, editorial staff, editor, nor AzDA is responsible for opinions or statements, all of which are published solely on the The elevator doors closed, and I chuckled to my- authority of the author cited. AzDA reserves the right to illustrate, reduce, revise, or reject any editorial submissions. Contents may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the express self, “I just flattened Steven Tyler.” After dinner and written consent of AzDA. AzDA does not assume liability for contents of advertisements, nor do advertisements constitute endorsement of products or services. AzDA reserves the a walk down to the river to see Chicago’s lights at right to refuse or cancel any advertisement at any time. INSCRIPTIONS is a benefit of AzDA membership, included in annual dues. Annual subscriptions are $50 (US) domestic and $100 night, I made my way back toward the hotel. Seem- (US) international. Subject to change. Member Publication American Association of Dental Editors. Winner: Special Citation USA Section International College of Dentists Journalism 2009 ingly from out of nowhere, an Aston Martin DB9 Awards, and 2012 Silver Scroll Award. rolls up right beside me, and guess who hopped out ARIZONA DENTAL ASSOCIATION | azda.org of the passenger seat of the car? My new “friend,” 3193 N. Drinkwater Blvd., Scottsdale AZ 85251 Steven Tyler. We snapped a quick photo despite his 480.344.5777 or 800.866.2732 | Fax: 480.344.1442

36 INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 BUSINESS AFFLILIATES Why do business with AzDA’s Business Affiliates? PRACTICE SALES/TRANSITIONS In remitting an annual contribution to the Katie Hines Office Transitions Association and offering an assurance of the high- (480) 423-7945 est level of customer service to AzDA members, officetransitions.com these businesses support organized dentistry. DentalDirectSales.com (480) 440-0566 Note: Unlike AzDA Perks Endorsed Business Part- dentaldirectsales.com ners, Business Affiliates are not endorsed by AzDA or AzDA Services. Western Practice Sales (800) 641-4179 ACCOUNTANTS/CPAs DENTAL CONSTRUCTION/REMODELING westernpracticesales.com Price Kong and Company Kaiser Construction, LLC SOCIAL MEDIA PRACTICE MARKETING (602) 776-6300 / (888) 346-0072 (602) 803-2194 pricekong.com kaiserconstruct.com WEO Media (888) 246-6906 Henry & Horne, LLP Venture West Construction, LLC weomedia.com (480) 483-1170 (520) 722-9292 hhcpa.com venturewestaz.com TECHNOLOGY/IT Dental Office CPA (928) 445-5097 DENTAL LABORATORIES Dental Works Alliance dentalofficecpa.com (520) 399-6598 Dani Dental Studio dentalworksalliance.com Robert F. Hockensmith, CPA, PC (480) 449-0909 (928) 264-9331 danidental.com azmoneyguy.com Reliable Dental Lab (702) 259-9990 ATTORNEYS/LEGAL savedentistmoney.com Comitz / Beethe (480) 998-7800 FINANCIAL SERVICES disabilitycounsel.net Principal Financial Group Paula D. Aguayo, PLLC (602) 957-3200 (623) 780-0117 principal.com paulaaguayo.com Savvy Outcomes Inc FOR YOUR NEXT CE, BOARD MEETING, BANKING/CREDIT UNIONS (614) 580-9926 savvyoutcomes.com OR STAFF-DEVELOPMENT EVENT AZ Dental Bank (623) 536-9862 INSURANCE AzDA headquarters is wvnb.net located just minutes from Desert Mountain Insurance Highway 101 and some of Arizona Central Credit Union (866) 467-3627 (602) 523-8252 dmisus.com the best shopping and fine azcentralcu.org dining in the Valley. Re- First Citizens Bank MERCHANT SERVICES serve one of AzDA’s board (480) 624-0947 rooms to make your next firstcitizens.com MiCamp Merchant Services event easy, stress-free and (800)396-0246 Gateway Commercial Bank micamp.com cost-effective. (480)-358-1000 To book your next event, gcbaz.com contact Executive Assistant COMMERICAL REAL ESTATE Jan Jepson [email protected] or 480.344.5777 ext.309). The Menlo Group (480) 659-1777 menlocre.com Remember, AzDA members receive a 50% discount. Want to become a Business Affiliate? Contact Terry Xelowski 480.344.5777 or [email protected] INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 37 LEADING CHANGE CONFERENCE—CONTINUED FROM 15

38 INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 39 understands their industry. As a result, they fell into what I call the Staples “easy button” syndrome—a case where someone just wants things to be easy because she/he is busy. Don’t get me wrong, I understand wanting to have Staples easy button for a number of facets in my life. In fact, my kids still remind me of a 1989 Hyundai leasing fiasco I had. Everything seemed easy, right up until the lease was up, and then things got ugly. In the grand scope of my life, that lease was a small amount of money. However, getting out of it was a pretty big deal when I realized the penalties. Going back to the borrowers/ dentists I mentioned—they had something else in common: Each of their documents contained some oner- ous covenants. Here are a few examples: EVERYONE LOVES AN EASY BUTTON— • Very often, blanket UCC UNTIL IT BITES THEM IN THE BUTT filings were required EASY ISN’T ALWAYS IDEAL WHEN IT COMES TO PRACTICE LOAN AGREEMENTS which limits the borrower’s ability to obtain additional or more favorable financing. Unless you are refinancing your whole GUEST ARTICLE practice, try and limit the lender to a specific Candace Wiest filing. Few lenders will go behind a prior blanket UCC filing for any major loan amounts. st In June, I celebrated my 21 anniversa- • Even with the blanket liens, we ry as a bank CEO. Honestly, I thought may have been able to help some of I had seen everything—right up until these folks if it wasn’t for some oner- the last couple of months when a rash ous prepayment penalties. In today’s of the worst loan agreements have financial world, prepayment penalties reared their ugly heads. There were are a necessary evil for most institu- several common denominators with tions. But if they are reasonable, they these transactions. First, each one can be a valuable tool for both parties. of these borrowers is an intelligent, They protect the bank against rapidly respectable dentist. They operate suc- declining interest rates and are often cessful, busy practices, and they devote matched with a funding instrument with their full attention to giving exceptional the same lifespan as the loan. They can patient care with quality outcomes. protect the borrower against rapidly ris- They operate profitably to ensure that ing interest rates over a long period of they can care for their patients for time. Unfortunately, we see too many many years. What they lacked was a documents designed to hold the client relationship with a local banker who 40 INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 hostage. Covenants need to be clearly defined about the realities of his practice and the condi- in the documents. We have seen covenants that tions of the loan. It reminded me of my 16-year- contain language such as “a prepayment pen- old daughter buying her first car! To make matters alty applies.” When our clients called to ask for worse, there were no good alternatives because clarification, it was the 1989 Hyundai scenario. the documents contained a blanket lien and a large Penalties ranged from a high of 75% of the loan prepayment penalty that made it financially impos- amount for five years to one that said “you cannot sible to prepay the loan for another three years. prepay this loan.” We were pretty surprised to find out that really meant you cannot prepay this loan I like easy as much as the next person. My job is de- or it is a breach of contract. manding and my personal time is valuable to me, and the last thing I want to do is extra paperwork when I • A young dentist chose a large institution because get home. I suspect that many of you are in the same not only did they finance his practice for 15 years, boat. So when a banker asks you for three years tax they promised him a line of credit (in the docu- returns, a year to date P&L, projections and a personal ments) “when he needed it.” What he didn’t know financial statement, I understand how attractive it can is who decided when he needed it, because it look to just press that Staples easy button and take the wasn’t clear in the documents. As I reviewed his deal that requires the least amount of work. Just make situation, I asked him how long he intended to sure when you press that easy button it isn’t an “oops” own his practice, he responded, “Only five to ten button in disguise. Oh, and about the 89 Hyundai, it years.” I then asked why he chose a 15 year amor- still runs great, and is finally free and clear! tization given the rate was higher than a five or ten year loan when he didn’t think he would own Candace Wiest is the President and CEO of AZ Dental Bank and the practice that long. He admitted he had only West Valley National Bank. She can be reached at 623-229-8415 reviewed the payment amount without thinking or at [email protected]

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AFN47003_0814 Member FDIC Equal Housing Lender INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 41 LOYALTY IS RARE. IF YOU FIND IT—KEEP IT HOW DO YOU INSURE YOUR PATIENTS WILL STAY LOYAL TO YOU?

GUEST ARTICLE their visit, and they pay their balances promptly. On Lisa Ryan the other hand, if your team is unhappy, frustrated, or bitter, your patients will sense it, and they won’t If your patients are the lifeblood of your practice, come back for treatment. how do you insure that they stay loyal to you? Staffing expenses make up a huge percentage of You can start with a S.M.I.L.E. your budget, but skimping on people or training sets you up to lose business. Think about it, when your Because you are already in the business of creating patients encounter a new hygienist at every visit, healthy and beautiful smiles, this is a great place to they may wonder about the quality of your care. By begin. Consider the look on your face when you en- investing in the engagement level of your dentists, ter your practice every day. Do you greet your team hygienists, techs, and assistants, you ensure the long- with a cheery “Good morning!” or does your expres- term success of your practice. sion cause your team to steer clear? A simple act of kindness goes a long way in building an engaging Here is a five step process you can use to increase environment that attracts new patients, retains criti- employee loyalty, productivity, and profitability. cal team members, and maintains a productive and 1. S = START right now. Oftentimes, we hear a profitable practice. good idea and then wait until a more convenient Studies show that only 29% of employees are ac- time to start. There is no time like the present. tively engaged in their jobs. It’s also been revealed The more you delay—the less likely you are to take that at any given time, 87% of employees are actively action. Today, commit to one activity you can do looking for new employment. By enacting a few to create stronger relationships with your staff. As simple strategies, you can make sure that your top Napoleon Hill, author of Think and Grow Rich, said, talent doesn’t become someone else’s. Furthermore, “Do not wait. The time will never be ‘just right’.” when your employees are happy, they take better care Start where you stand, and work whatever tools you of your patients. When your patients have a positive may have at your command—better tools will be experience, they are more likely to be at ease during found as you go along.” 42 INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 CONTINUED ON 44 INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 43 LOYALTY—CONTINUED FROM 42 If it has been awhile since you’ve greeted your dental cal sales field, I gave my customers surgical gloves team with a smile, or acknowledged their contribution filled with candy. When promoting the release of my to your practice, use the “Apology Approach.” Tell movie, I delivered microwave popcorn in red and your team, “I know that I have not been the easiest white popcorn bag envelopes to announce the red person to be around lately, and starting today, I am go- carpet premiere. Remember, the more unique and ing to change that. You are incredibly valuable to this distinctive your connection, the bigger the payoff. practice, and I am going to make more of an effort so you feel appreciated and recognized here.” 4. L = Look for additional ways you can be of service. If you see an article in a newspaper or trade magazine that mentions one of your patients, clip it out, laminate it, and send it to them. Collect your patients’ email addresses and start a newsletter or send out a short “Dental Tip of the Week.” Email the links of interesting articles you find online, even if they have nothing to do with your business. Keep your eye out for referrals or strategic partners that you can in- troduce them to help them grow their businesses well.

When it comes to steps three and four, you may be thinking, “I don’t have the time or the resources to do any of this stuff. No one else in my industry is doing this, so why should I?” You do not have to devote tons of time to do this. Set aside an hour or two of concentrated effort on a regular basis, and get it done. When you look at what your competition is doing, and you choose to do the opposite, you’ll differentiate yourself in a way that is memorable and effective to the people who matter most: Your patients. 2. M = MAKE a list of your top patients. 5. E = Express appreciation. Let your patients These may be the patients that you enjoy the most know that you enjoy working with them and that you or the ones that are most profitable (and easy to are grateful for their business. Don’t assume they work with). Don’t feel obligated to include profitable know. Tell them, or better yet, send them a note. E- patients you do not like to be around. When you’re mails are fine, but don’t make that your only mode of done with your initial list, go through your database communication. Hand-written notes or cards sent of patients with whom you’ve lost contact, and add through the mail are unexpected and make a positive the names of those patients you would like to get impact. Mail a small gift or card on the patient’s first back. Ask your staff to suggest their favorite and appointment anniversary. Chances are good that they not-so-favorite patients, and add (or subtract) them will tell all of their friends about the extraordinary ef- to the list. forts they receive from you. Analyze the list and see if a pattern emerges. By do- Marketing guru, ing so, you’ll identify the characteristics that best de- Dan Kennedy, termine the makeup of your favorite patients. Guess discovered that the what? You’ve just found your target market. Focus number one reason a your advertising and marketing efforts in the areas customer stops doing where you come across these patients and you’ll at- business with a company tract the perfect clientele for you and your team. is because the customer 3. I = Identify creative ways to stay in touch. Using feels ignored, unappreciated, or taken for granted. the above targeted client/prospect list, devise a vari- When you let your patients know that they mat- ety of communication methods - letters, notes, social ter, you will matter to them. In business, as in life, a media, emails, phone calls, and/or faxes - to let them SMILE goes a long way. know you are thinking about them. Consider mixing Lisa Ryan works with organizations to keep their top talent. She it up. Make it a goal to make your patients laugh (or is the author of seven books, and co-stars in two films including at least smile) and they will reward you with their loy- the award-winning, “The Keeper of the Keys” with Jack Canfield alty and referrals. For an example, when in the medi- of Chicken Soup for the Soul. www.grategy.com 44 INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 October 15, 2014 Phoenix Principles for a Productive DENTAL PRACTICE CAD/CAM DENTISTRY IN THE DIGITAL AGE

Presented by Dr. Mark Morin

The impact of today’s economy has changed the dental landscape. Technological advancements have enhanced the practice of dentistry. Highly-acclaimed speaker and dentist, Dr. Mark Morin will share his successful experiences around digital dentistry.

Dr. Morin will be sharing: • How to thrive in a challenging PPO environment • Secrets to attracting new patients with convenient same-day dentistry • Strategies to increase your practice productivity and team development

Dr. Morin lectures globally on the subject of CAD/CAM and various aspects of practice management, productivity, and digital dentistry; teaching dentists how to utilize technology to differentiate and elevate their practices to the next level of success. Dr. Mark Morin maintains a private practice that remains in the top 1% of dental practices in the US.

Place: Tempe Mission Palms Hotel 60 East Fifth Street • Tempe, AZ 85281 Time: Registration: 3:30pm – 4:00pm • Seminar: 4:00pm – 8:00pm Registration Fees: $80 for Doctor, $15 additional Attendees with Doctor $80 Attendees without Doctor

The federal government imposes certain restrictions on, and pursuant Approved PACE Program Provider FAGD/MAGD to the Sunshine Act requires public reporting of, transfers of value to a Credit Approval does not imply acceptance by a state or provincial board of dentistry or practitioner. This includes educational programs to the extent that less than AGD endorsement. a fair market value for such program is paid. Your Henry Schein Provider ID # 307550 representative can advise you of the reportable amount. 10/1/11-9/30/16

INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 45 DENTISTS GOT NO LOVE IN CANTON, OH THE HALL OF FAME’S EMOTIONAL DRAW FOCUSED TOO MUCH ON THE MAN—NOT ENOUGH ON THE MALADY occurrences of oral cancer. Whether you watched AzDA MANAGING EDITOR ESPN, coverage of the Hall of Fame (HOF) festivi- Jeremy Tuber ties, Fox Sports, or any other sports channel, you un- doubtedly watched a touching story that highlighted Kelly’s fight as an athlete and as a father and husband battling cancer. For many outside of the Buffalo Investing the last 30 seconds of a video on area, including me, this was the first glimpse of Kelly after his bouts with chemotherapy—it was tough to the benefits of early detection of oral cancer watch. Seeing anyone after a couple of bouts of chemotherapy is never easy. However, seeing Kelly was might have saved thousands of other especially jarring to the people in the NFL and in Western New York—Kelly was football’s version of supermen and superwomen... Superman. After losing over fifty pounds, his hair, his teeth, and most of his maxillary jaw, he looked a What a missed opportunity. shell of the man most remember on the gridiron. It was touching to celebrate Kelly’s resilience as a Every year I eagerly plunk down in front of the tele- person and a father who had already lost a child to a vision on a late July Saturday and Sunday to welcome life-threatening illness—to be honest, I am not sure in the start of the National Football League. And how he found the strength to get through it—but I while I’ll unabashedly admit I enjoy football, I lived was astounded at the lack of coverage concerning several years in Canton, and actually worked across the disease that was ravaging his life. Throughout the highway from the Pro Football Hall of Fame, so all of the video vignettes about Kelly and his oral the event and the game have special significance. It’s cancer, there was virtually no coverage of the im- nice to see home again, even if it’s on television. portance in visiting the dentist for regular checkups, While there were seven inductees to this year’s Hall, and how she/he can be an integral part of catching past inductee and legendary quarterback Jim Kelly the disease in its early stages. In an article about Jim stole the emotional spotlight. Kelly, who is peren- Kelly, Dr. Manny Alvarez reports, “…diagnoses of nially known for his toughness, had undergone two the oral cancer have increased every year for the past 46 INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 CONTINUED ON 48 WHAT YOU’VE BUILT IS WORTH PROTECTING.

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INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 47 CANTON, OH—CONTINUED FROM 46 five years, according to the Oral Cancer Foundation. his cancer treatment was agonizing. When asked if That is why it’s so important for people to schedule his 30-year chewing habit caused the cancer, Schilling regular appointments with their dentist – and to replied, “I do believe, without a doubt, unquestionably make sure they get examined for signs of oral that chewing was what gave me cancer,” he said. “I’m cancer. If you catch oral cancers early, the survival not going to sit up here from the pedestal and preach rate can be over 80 percent.”1 It’s too bad the rest about chewing.”2 Yikes, another missed opportunity of the media didn’t see the need to report this by a well-known athlete. Perhaps Schilling feels fellow vital information. ballplayers would be offended if he did speak out about chewing. Whatever his reasons are, it’s a shame Perhaps I expected too much out of sports media, that Schilling is missing out on this teachable moment and perhaps I am biased because I work for the for so many kids who look up to him. dental association, but in merely focusing on Kelly’s hardships, the media missed opportunity to educate As for Jim Kelly, he was a Buffalo Bill’s quarterback, millions of Americans on the benefits of getting and I am a die-hard Steelers’ fan, so I never rooted regular checkups and being screened for oral cancer much for him as a football player. However, I find by a dentist. To be fair, these spotlight videos about myself rooting for him now. Stay strong, Jim. I hope Kelly were run during sports events or on sports part of your future inspirational messages includes channels, so an eight-minute clip on the benefits helping others understand that oral cancer can be of visiting a dentist is unrealistic. Still, investing the treatable if detected early enough. last 30 seconds of a video on the benefits of early 1 detection of oral cancer might have saved thousands http://www.foxnews.com/health/2014/03/26/dr-manny-jim- of other supermen and superwomen from going kellys-toughest-game-fighting-oral-cancer/ through this disease. What a missed opportunity. 2 http://espn.go.com/boston/mlb/story/_/id/11380584/curt- schilling-former-boston-red-sox-pitcher-says-chewing-tobacco- In a recent development, former Arizona Diamond- led-mouth-cancer back’s pitcher Curt Shilling announced he has squa- Jeremy is the Managing Editor of Inscriptions. If you have feed- mous cell carcinoma from chewing smokeless tob- back about, or a potential story for, this publication, email him bacco. Schilling is reporting he’s lost 75lbs and that at [email protected].

If you have acting experience, or if friends have told you that you should have been an actor, AzDA is looking for dentists, allied members, and dental students for promotional videos. No experience necessary. This is a great team-building activity for dentists and staff, most shoots can be done right in your office, and shoots typically don’t take more than an hour. For more details, email Manager of Communications [email protected] <<< Check out Dr. Fred Olsen’s video by visiting http://bit.ly/sourceonedental Thank you, Dr. Olsen—you and your team were terrific... We’ll try to get you some take out sushi! PS—If you emailed in but didn’t receive a response, please give us WE NEED ACTORS another shot. Our incoming email was down for a few days. TALENT CALL FOR AzDA PROMOTIONAL VIDEOS

48 INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 49 AZ-AUG-2014.pdf 1 8/16/14 3:19 PM

CMY

50 INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 CLASSIFIED SECTION DENTISTS SERVING DENTISTS DYK, the average visitor on azda.org’s classified section spends Western Practices Sales invites you to visit DENTISTS WANTED over 4 minutes looking through ads? Place yours today. our website, www.westernpracticesales.com to view all of our practices for sale and to ASSOCIATE DENTIST WANTED Place your INSCRIPTIONS and or online see why we are the broker of choice for Busy solo practice is looking for a full time classified ad by visiting sellers throughout Nevada, California & associate. Friendly, professional staff. No www.azda.org/jobs-classified-ads Arizona. Because we are owned by dentists, HMO’s. Dentist of 25 years is willing to we know the profession well and under- mentor the right new graduate. Emphasis stand your unique needs. (800)641-4179. on patient care and satisfaction. (Read our online reviews.) Objective is to have RATES MOVE IN READY DENTAL OF- PRINT ------the associate eventually buy into practice. FICE DOWNTOWN QUEEN CREEK Emphasis at this practice is high quality AzDA/ADA Members per month Great Location! For Sale or Lease. Stand $ crown and bridge and restorative dentistry. 25 first 30 words alone Dental Office, 6 Exam Rooms, Lab $.35 cents per additional word 4 to 4 1/2 days per week. $100K minimum Room, Reception Area, Waiting Room, per year guaranteed. No weekends! Please Non-Members per month Storage Room. 1,960 sqft, Call Kyle Keller e-mail: [email protected] $100 first 30 words Today. DPR Realty 623-570-5953. $ 1 per additional word ASSOCIATE POSITION SE TUCSON MOVE-IN-READY DENTAL OFFICE ONLINE ------Dental Care on Golf Links, in SE Tucson, FOR LEASE Litchfield/Avondale Dental has an immediate opening for a full time Members $25 per month office in Medical Plaza available for lease. $ (4 days a week) associate to join our team. Non-Members 50 per month Move-in-Ready with dental build-out We are an established private practice with [email protected] features. ±3134 RSF, 8 exam rooms. $14/ an experienced team, mostly FFS and fully SF,NNN. Contact Perry Gabuzzi @ perry. digital. We are seeking a general dentist [email protected] or 602.373.7862 with the following qualifications: 1) Mini- for more information mum 3 years clinical practice experience, PEORIA WINNER Absentee owner 2) proficient in all phases of dentistry, 3) QUESTIONS/INQUIRIES realized personal net income after debt maintain a current license in Arizona, 4) 480.344.5777 Office service is over $200K with over 200k in friendly personality, and 5) motivated to 800.866.2732 Toll Free provide excellent dental care to our fam- 480.344.1442 Fax doctor pay! Very low overhead! All digital, ily of patients. Possible opportunity for [email protected] well equipped operatories in a very busy medical plaza. This practice collected future partnership with the right dentist. $825K in 2013 seeing 60-70 new patients Compensation based off percentage of per month and trending for 1m in 2014. production. Please email CV and contact PRACTICES, SPACES, This is a great opportunity for a first info to [email protected] AND REAL ESTATE time purchaser looking to increase their DENTIST - BUCKEYE, AZ Full time FOR SALE OR LEASE personal income or the doctor looking for associate needed in our Buckeye, AZ fam- a very healthy practice. Asking 600k. E- ily dental practice. Busy established office mail: [email protected] with a great payor mix. High compensa- ALL ARIZONA PRACTICE LISTINGS TUCSON - Several excellent practice tion and other benefits. Please email CV STATEWIDE Katie Hines Office Tran- purchase opportunities or associate w/buy- to [email protected] sitions has listings throughout Arizona in options. Small to large offices located www.SunWestDental.net from $80,000 up. Contact us for a practice throughout the greater Tucson area. Priced DENTIST - SUN CITY WEST just right for you. View our ads on the at fair market value. Do not work for AZDA website and our website, www.Of- Seeking a full time associate. Two Doc- someone else when you can own your own tor’s and Two RDH’s working Monday ficeTransitions.com. Katie Hines 602-619- practice. Call AFTCO at (800) 232-3826. 3287 [email protected] - RE/ - Thursday 8 - 5. Fee for service & PPO’s MAX Excalibur Commercial. TUCSON PERIO PRACTICE Mature in a private practice. REQUIRES general periodontal practice is interviewing for a restorative, Molar Endo & Ext experience DENTAL PRACTICE OPPORTUNITY full time associate/employee. Excellent of 10 YEARS. Excellent compensation Dental Practice Buy-in and or partner location with 7 general dentists and an with a New Mercedes Allowance. Busy Associateship in Northwestern Mohave orthodontist in the same complex & nu- but fun office with emphasis on Qual- County. Great opportunity to join a gener- merous other referral dentists developed ity & Team work. For more information al dentistry practice in modern nine chair over the years. Opportunity for purchase call Mike 602-614-6823 or email PHXS- five thousand square foot T.H.E. designed is available. Please contact Laura at Mas- [email protected] free standing building. Patient base is sengale & Associates Consulting, 520-409- predominately private insurance and cash 5000 or [email protected] consisting of crown and bridge, dentures, oral surgery, implants, endodontics, and TUCSON-MID CITY-NORTH SWAN I.V. sedation. Over 36,000 patients have ROAD 4 op office - no equipment for been treated in this practice! Collections lease in three office complex. 2 offices reaching over 2 million. For inquiries call occupied by family dentists. If interested (928) 279-4688 or email resume barry@ please call 520-299-1049. riatadental.com INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 51 CLASSIFIED SECTION DENTIST NEEDED IN PRESCOTT, FULL TIME GENERAL DENTIST GENERAL DENTISTS WANTED ARIZONA Dentist Needed in Beauti- POSITION IN TUCSON, AZ Associat- Southwest Dental Group is currently looking ful Prescott, Arizona. Busy family dental ed Dental Care Providers is looking for a for General Dentists in Gilbert and Mesa. practice is looking for an ethical and full time General Dentist to join our team Southwest Dental Group provides a large caring dentist. We believe in conservative in Tucson, Arizona. We offer an excellent network of resources, including an experi- treatment planning with the patient’s best benefit and compensation package. Apply enced practice management staff, cutting interest in mind. We have two office loca- Today! Contact Sarah at 781-213-3318 or edge technology, and outstanding benefits tions (Prescott and Bagdad, AZ). Prescott [email protected] to help our affiliated dentists and employees has a wonderful climate and is great place grow in their careers. Are you a Dentist just for families. Military veteran dentist is a FULL TIME PEDIATRIC/ GENERAL wanting to focus on building relationships plus. Please send resume to brett@mang- DENTIST WITH PARTNERSHIP OP- with your patients and providing quality care? umdental.com. Questions: 928-778-4110. PORTUNITY Pediatric Dental Practice With Southwest Dental Group, you can www.mangumdental.com. seeking a Full Time Dentist (General/ count on us to manage the nitty gritty of your Pediatric). Must love to work with chil- office so that you can focus on dentistry. You ENDODONTIST A busy modern end- dren and create long term relationships will also have plenty of dental professionals odontic practice located in Scottsdale is with the families of the community by supporting you to confer and collaborate looking for a part-time associate working providing the time and education that they with as you continue to grow in your career. 2 days a week. Please forward your re- deserve. Compassion to do the proper Send resumes to: [email protected] sume/CV to [email protected]. treatment at the highest ethical standard for every patient is must. Offering $1,500 GENERAL DENTISTS WANTED FOR ENDODONTIST Modern, state-of-the- sign on Bonus. For more information or TUCSON Are you a Dentist just want- art, private Endodontics office in East to email your resume; please contact Matt ing to focus on building relationships with Valley looking for an Endodontist to join at 480-415-7212/ myadegari@mycircle- your patients and providing quality care? our busy practice. Please email your CV dental.com With Gentle Dental, you can count on us [email protected] to manage the nitty gritty of your office GENERAL DENTIST POSITION IN so that you can focus on dentistry. Gentle ENDODONTIST WANTED FOR PHOENIX, AZ A Tooth Doctor for Kids Dental has delivered high quality care with a PHOENIX Gentle Dental is currently a pediatric based practice is looking for a personal touch for over 30 years. We have the looking for an Endodontist for the Phoenix General Dentist for their Phoenix, AZ lo- resources you need to achieve true personal area. As an industry leader, Gentle Dental cation. They offer excellent benefits. Con- and career success. We aim to provide our provides a large network of resources, tact Sarah Bolduc for more information network of affiliated doctors and staff with a including an experienced practice manage- [email protected] or 781-213-3318. competitive benefits package, which include: ment staff, cutting edge technology, and medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401K outstanding benefits. We seek high-caliber GENERAL DENTIST WANTED plan, PTO, CE credits, and career opportuni- professionals possessing degrees or certifi- North Phoenix. Associateship leading to imme- ties to advance with the company.Contact: cates from accredited colleges or technical diate partnership and eventual full ownership if Ron Brush, [email protected], phone: schools/programs (as well as valid/cur- desired. Two days a week to start leading to full 971-295-9914,or apply: http://interdent. rent state license) with at least 1 year of time. Call 24-Hour FREE Recorded Message force.com/careers/apex/ts2__JobDetails?job dental experience. We aim to provide our 888-556-1490 ext. 9002 to learn more. Id=a0xi0000001Z7v5AAC network of affiliated doctors and staff with a competitive benefits package. Contact: GENERAL DENTIST WANTED TUC- GENERAL FAMILY DENTISTRY ASSO- Ron Brush,[email protected], phone: SAN As an industry leader, Gentle Dental CIATE 30 years established Family Private 971-295-9914,or apply: http://interdent. provides a large network of resources, Practice seeking Associate. North Glendale/ force.com/careers/apex/ts2__JobDetails?j including an experienced practice manage- Peoria. Must be committed to establishing a obId=a0xi0000001YWw3AAG ment staff, cutting edge technology, and relationship of trust with patients based on a outstanding benefits to help our affiliated commitment to ethics and quality dentistry. 3 FT GP IN SCOTTSDALE (BRAND dentists and employees grow in their careers. years minimum experience. 3 days/wk includ- NEW OFFICE) PERFECT TEETH is Are you a Dentist just wanting to focus on ing Wednesdays and Fridays. Flexible on third opening a beautiful brand new office in building relationships with your patients and day. Must have current AZ Dental License. Scottsdale (N. Frank Lloyd Wright and providing quality care? With Gentle Dental, Send CV to [email protected] 101) in a great location (next to super- you can count on us to manage the nitty market and bank). The office is sched- gritty of your office so that you can focus PART-TIME ASSOCIATE DENTIST uled to open October 1, and we need an on dentistry. You will also have plenty of Dentist needed for family practice in Golden experienced dentist that can open the dental professionals supporting you to con- Valley, AZ (10 miles outside of Kingman, office with us! We’re looking for some- fer and collaborate with as you continue to AZ). 2-3 days per week. Hours and days are one to work Mon-Fri, and someone that grow in your career. We are offering a $3,000 flexible. May turn into full-time if desired. prefers working as a solo GP (we will sign on bonus. Gentle Dental has delivered Send CV and letter of interest to charlielu- have hygiene). We offer a very competi- high quality care with a personal touch for [email protected] tive guaranteed base salary or high % of over 30 years. We have the resources you production, whichever is greater. We also need to achieve true personal and career PEDIATRIC DENTIST A Tooth Doctor offer excellent benefits. For more infor- success. We aim to provide our network of for Kids in Phoenix, Arizona is looking for a mation contact Kevin at 303-285-6030 or affiliated doctors and staff with a competi- full-time Pediatric Dentist. We offer competi- email [email protected]. For more tive benefits package. Apply Online: http:// tive compensation and a professional work information on our company visit jobs. interdent.force.com/careers/apex/ts2__Job environment. For more information contact perfectteeth.com. Details?jobId=a0xi0000001Z7v5AAC Sarah Bolduc [email protected] or 781- 213-3318. 52 INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 PEDIATRIC/GENERAL DENTIST Molar Magic is seeking a full time/part DENTAL TEAM POSITIONS MARKETPLACE time dentist position for our children’s dental clinic in Casa Grande and Coolidge. DENTAL HYGIENIST Our first-line, ORO VALLEY ENDO EQUIPMENT Please email your resume to Dana.casa- gold-standard Dental Hygienists deliver ONLY RamVacQT, Airstar30 compres- [email protected] or fax 480-393-0926 exceptional dental care by combining gen- sor, Midmark M9 autoclave, Portable N20, or contact Dana at 520-876-5200. uine compassion with surgeon-like dexter- Global stools, Adec stools, Planmeca x-rays, PRESCOTT AREA-FULL TIME ASSO- ity – “dental magic” at its best. At Gentle Adec 5580, A-dec 2132 units, A-dec 1040 CIATE Applicants must have a friendly Dental, you can expect a complementary Cascaded chairs, Macan electrosurge, A- disposition and demonstrate a genuine team of practitioners of health who strive dec asst packages, Schick digital sensors & interest in building lifelong relationships to make a difference – professionals who remotes, Global microscopes with cameras, with our exceptional staff and rapidly consistently generate the ideals and visions Implant motor handpiece & supplies, Sys- growing patient base. This dentist must of the team. If you are committed to temB, Elements GP, Tulsa ultrasonic, Apex have a passion for expanding their clinical providing clinical excellence, and have un- locaters, 4x6 file cabinets and more. Big and practice management skill-set as there bridled enthusiasm for the “Dental Arts,” discount for bulk purchase. orovalleyendo@ is partnership potential for the right per- we want to hear from you today! We seek yahoo.com for info & pictures.520-730-3347 son. A generous compensation package high-caliber professionals possessing including medical, dental, CE allowance degrees or certificates of hygiene from and retirement benefits available. If you accredited colleges or technical schools PROFESSIONAL SERVICES have gentle hands, a warm heart, strong (as well as valid/current state license) with character and integrity, and wish to live in at least 1 year of dental experience. We PAULA D. AGUAYO - ATTORNEY the most beautiful part of Arizona, our aim to provide our network of affiliated Call (602) 686-5016 and visit online at www. team would love to meet you! Send your doctors and staff with a competitive PaulaAguayo.com Professional entity forma- CV to: [email protected]. benefits package, which include: medical, tion¸ employment agreements¸ contract dental, vision, life insurance, 401K plan, preparation¸ review and negotiation includ- PTO, CE credits, and career opportuni- ing commercial lease and practice sale/pur- ties to advance with the company. APPLY chase agreements. Affordable¸ experienced ONLINE: http://interdent.force.com/ and responsive representation. careers/apex/ts2__JobDetails?jobId=a0xi 0000001ZJ44AAG

INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 53 and YMCA Free Dental Clinics, serv- EVENTS/EDUCATION ing the underserved. Retired dentists are welcome to mentor senior dental students. Please contact Dr. Ken Sny- ORAL PATHOLOGY CE PROGRAM der@602-261-6872 or email KSnyder@ DON’T MISS THIS RARE OPPOR- svdp-phx-az.org TUNITY! Common & Not So Common Oral Pathology and Contemporary Radi- ology For Diagnosis FEATURING Dr. Robert J. Achterberg, DDS, MS Clinical PRACTICE, SPACE FOR RENT OR SUBLEASE Oral & Maxillofacial Pathology Incytedi- agnostics and Vijay Parashar, BDS, DDS, RELOCATING DENTIST MDSc. Associate Professor Looking to rent/sublease 1-2 operatories Oral & Maxillofacial Radiology Midwest- 2 days/week in modern office in West ern University, Glendale, AZ Valley/North Phoenix. Also will consider WHEN: 8 a.m. -1 p.m. Saturday, October a part time associateship in modern set- 11th ting. Respond to: [email protected] WHERE: Crowne Plaza Phoenix 2532 W. Peoria Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85029 COST: $75 includes 3 CE Credits & Breakfast Buffet RSVP and payment required: (623) 931-9197 – Michelle Marketing@azc- tr4implants.com Space is limited - Early Registration ends September 5th. This event is sponsored by Synergy Study Club, Dr. Donald Hoaglin & Dr. Gary Lines from Arizona Center for Implant, Facial & Oral Surgery

GIVING OPPORTUNITIES

ST. ELIZABETH’S HEALTH CENTER, TUCSON – DENTAL PROGRAM In need of volunteer dentists to see Den- ture Patients, either at the clinic or willing to take a few eligible patient referrals in your office. Please contact us at tazg@ ccs-soaz.org VOLUNTEERS NEEDED We are in NEED of volunteer dentists to assist in St Vincent de Paul Free

ADVERTISER INDEX SUPPORT INSCRIPTIONS’ ADVERTISERS AzDA Services Business Affiliates...... 37 Benco Dental...... 2 AZ Center for Implant Facial and Oral Surgery...... 39 SourceOne Dental...... 7 Mutual of Omaha Bank...... 41 SoFi...... 11 Western Society of Periodontology...... 43 GPE Commercial Advisors...... 17 Henry Schein...... 45 Proactive Practice Management...... 18 Revere Financial Services...... 47 Comitz Beethe...... 21 Katie Hines Office Transitions...... 49 AFTCO...... 23 Kirschner and Klarfeld...... 50 AzDA Perks...... 25 Paragon Dental Practice Transitions...... 50 Metropolitan Denver Dental Society...... 29 Dentist Benefits Insurance Company...... 53 Western Practice Sales...... 31 Desert Mountain Insurance Company...... 55 Princess Dental Staffing...... 33 Brown and Brown Insurance...... Back Cover

54 INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014 55 PRSRT STD US POSTAGE ARIZONA DENTAL ASSOCIATION PAID ARIZONA’S VOICE OF DENTISTRY SINCE 1909 PHOENIX, AZ 3193 N Drinkwater Blvd., Scottsdale, AZ 85251 PERMIT NO. 365

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56 INSCRIPTIONS | September 2014