Pennsylvania Dental Journal Vol. 77, No. 2 • March/April 2010

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Legislative Action Alert

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PDA Social Network Open For Business

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Pennsylvania Dental Journal • www.padental.org

Dr. Bruce R. Terry (Editor) 4th...Dr. Michael S. Shuman…2013 85 Old Eagle School Road, Wayne, 19087-2524 1052 Park Road, Blandon, 19510-9563 (610) 995-0109 • [email protected] (610) 916-1233 • [email protected] Dr. Joseph J. Kohler III (Associate Editor) 5th...Dr. David R. Larson…2013 219 W. 7th Street, Erie, 16501-1601 1305 Middletown Rd. Ste 2 (814) 452-4838 • [email protected] Hummelstown, 17036-8825 Dr. Brian Mark Schwab (Associate Editor) (717) 566-9797 • [email protected] 1021 Lily Lane, Reading, 19560-9535 6th...Dr. John P. Grove...2011 (610) 926-1233 • [email protected] PO Box 508, Jersey Shore, 17740-0508 Rob Pugliese (Director of Communications) (570) 398-2270 • [email protected] P.O. Box 3341, Harrisburg, 17105 7th...Dr. Peter P. Korch, III...2010 +G (800) 223-0016 • FAX (717) 234-2186 4200 Crawford Ave., NorCam Bldg. 3 [email protected] P.O. Box 1388, Northern Cambria, 15714-1388 Dr. Richard Galeone (Editor Emeritus) (814) 948-9650 3501 North Front Street, Harrisburg, 17110 [email protected] (717) 234-5941 • FAX (717) 234-2186 8th...Dr. William J. Weaver...2011 [email protected] Brookville Dental, 123 Main Street Dr. Judith McFadden (Editor Emerita) Brookville, 15825-1212 3386 Memphis Street, Philadelphia, 19134 (814) 849-2652 • [email protected] (215) 739-3100 9th...Dr. Joseph J. Kohler III...2012 G 219 W 7th Street, Erie, 16501-1601 Officers (814) 452-4838 [email protected] Dr. Andrew J. Kwasny (President) 33 10th...Dr. Donald A. Stoner...2011 3 3219 Peach Street • Erie, 16508-2735 Oakmont Dental Associates (814) 455-2158 • [email protected] 154 Allegheny River Blvd., Oakmont, 15139-1801 Dr. William T. Spruill (President-Elect) +3 (412) 828-7750 • [email protected] 520 South Pitt Street, Carlisle, 17013-3820 (717) 245-0061 • [email protected] ADA Third District Trustee Dr. Thomas W. Gamba (Immediate Past President) G 255 S 17th Street Suite 2807 Dr. Charles R. Weber Philadelphia, 19103-6228 606 East Marshall Street, Ste 103 (215) 546-2311 • [email protected] West Chester, PA 19380-4485 (610) 436-5161 • [email protected] Dr. Stephen T. Radack III (Vice President) 413 East 38th Street, Erie, 16504-1621 PDA Council Chairs (814) 825-6221 • [email protected] Dr. Dennis J. Charlton (Speaker) GG+ Council on Communications & Public Relations P.O. Box 487 • Sandy Lake, 16145-0487 Dr. David A. Tecosky (724) 376-7161 • [email protected] Council on Dental Practice Dr. Gary S. Davis (Secretary) G3 Dr. Bruce Parker 420 East Orange St. • Shippensburg, 17257-2140 Council on Government Relations (717) 532-4513 • [email protected] Dr. Herbert L. Ray, Jr. Dr. R. Donald Hoffman (Treasurer) ++3 Council on Membership 105 Penhurst Drive, Pittsburgh, 15235 Dr. Karin D. Brian (412) 648-1915 • [email protected] PDA Committee Chairs Trustees By District Access to Care Committee 1st...Dr. Thomas P. Nordone…2013 Dr. Bernadette A. Logan 207 N. Broad Street, Philadelphia, 19107-1500 Annual Awards Committee (215) 557-0557 • [email protected] Dr. Charles R. Weber 2nd...Dr. Bernard P. Dishler...2011 + Concerned Colleague Committee Yorktowne Dental Group Ltd. Dr. Bartley J. Morrow 8118 Old York Road Ste A, Elkins Park, 19027-1499 (215) 635-6900 • [email protected] Environmental Issues Committee Dr. Marian S. Wolford 3rd...Dr. D. Scott Aldinger...2012 +3 8555 Interchange Road, Lehighton, 18235-5611 Forensic Odontology Committee (610) 681-6262 • [email protected] Dr. Jeff D. Aronsohn New Dentist Committee Dr. Brian Mark Schwab

2 March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal PDA Central Office 3501 North Front Street P.O. Box 3341, Harrisburg, 17105 (800) 223-0016 • (717) 234-5941 Pennsylvania FAX (717) 232-7169 Camille Kostelac-Cherry, Esq. Chief Executive Officer Dental Journal [email protected] Mary Donlin The Official Publication of the Pennsylvania Dental Association Director of Membership March/April 2010 • Volume 77, Number 2 [email protected] Marisa Swarney Director of Government Relations Features [email protected] 19 PDA Social Network is Open for Business! Rob Pugliese Director of Communications By Jessica S. Forte, Component Relations Manager [email protected] 25-27 Evidence-Based Dentistry Rebecca Von Nieda Director of Meetings and Administration [email protected] Leo Walchak Controller Departments [email protected] 5 Impressions 7 Government Relations Board Committees Legend 9 Membership Matters 3 Executive Committee 33 Chairman 13 Insurance Connection + ++ Budget, Finance & Property Chairman 23 Cyber Salon G Bylaws Committee GG Chairman 31 Awards & Achievements EDITORIAL Board 32 In Memoriam Dr. Daniel Boston 33 It’s Your Money Dr. Allen Fielding 35 On the Lighter Side Dr. Marjorie Jeffcoat 37 Continuing Education Dr. Kenneth G. Miller 43 Classified Advertisements Dr. Andres Pinto Dr. Deborah Studen-Pavlovich Dr. James A. Wallace Dr. Charles R. Weber Dr. Gerald S. Weintraub

The mission of the Pennsylvania Dental Journal is to serve PDA members by providing information about topics and issues that affect dentists practicing in Pennsylvania. The Journal also will report membership-related activities of the leadership of the association, proceedings of the House of Delegates at the annual session and status of PDA programs.

PENNSYLVANIA DENTAL JOURNAL (ISSN 0031-4439), owned and published by the Pennsylvania Dental Association, 3501 North Front Street, Harrisburg, 17110, is published bi-monthly: Jan/Feb, Mar/Apr, May/June, July/Aug, Sept/Oct, Nov/Dec. Address advertising and subscription queries to 3501 North Front Street, P.O. Box 3341, Harrisburg, 17105. Domestic subscriptions are available to persons not eligible for membership at $36/year; International subscriptions available at $75/year. Single copies $10. Periodical postage paid at Harrisburg, PA. “The Pennsylvania Dental Association, although formally accepting and publishing reports of the various standing committees and essays read before the Association (and its components), holds itself not responsible for opinions, theories, and criticisms therein contained, except when adopted or sanctioned by special resolutions.” The Association assumes no responsibility for any program content of lectures in continuing education programs advertised in this magazine. The Association reserves the right to refuse any advertisement for any reason. Copyright ©2010, Pennsylvania Dental Association. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Pennsylvania Dental Association, P.O. Box 3341, Harrisburg, PA 17105. MEMBER: American Association of Dental Editors

March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal 3 4 March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal Impressions

The Saint my apartment in week three of dental school, naturally I knew this I gave a lecture the other day to wouldn’t be good. the junior dental class at the Kornberg My ’69 Plymouth Satellite was not School of Dentistry at Temple a cherry car. It was chipped brown University. Afterward a student came with a weather-beaten and peeling up to ask a question. Then another fabric top. The roof looked like a bald student came up and said that she man three days after a bad sunburn. enjoyed the lecture and some of my The upholstery was shiny black with stories. You see, I teach at the same a few tears. It was a gift from a cousin. dental school that I graduated from Actually, it was perfect. It ran well, 23 years ago. Back then things were got nearly 8 miles to the gallon and it different, very different, and it was had a bench front seat. Perfect for unusual to go up to your professor to date night. thank him or her (it was usually a I didn’t live in a bad part of town, him) for a lecture. but things were not great around my Many of the faculty members at my apartment. Crime was a common dental school were former military occurrence. On the third Friday dentists who turned to education after Dr. Bruce R. Terry afternoon of dental school, I parked leaving the service. Diversity was a my car in the side lot of my building, term for religious coexistence. Dental I went into my apartment and did school was still predominately com- that you failed your last math test. The not return to the car until Monday posed of white males. The school was Saint was course director for dental morning. I camped out in my apart- old, the equipment was older and the anatomy. He would give classroom ment and lived on mac-n-cheese, fear among students was level orange. lectures and roam the preclinic while Coke and biochemistry. Freshman year was mostly devoted we diligently carved wax teeth. It When I emerged Monday, I went to basic science courses, biochemistry, would take most of the semester, but to my car only to find it was not there. anatomy and pathology, to name a by the end of the course we could Like a shopper leaving the mall, I few. The very first dental course was carve every tooth in the mouth immediately thought I parked some- dental anatomy. It was the only course perfectly. Perfectly, because the Saint where else. I looked out front, I that had any clinical significance to would make sure of it. As he moved looked out back, but no car. Eventually dentistry and was my first exposure to between the rows of tables in the reality hit; my car had been the career that I wanted so badly. preclinic, he would stop and look at stolen. At that moment I thought less The course instructor had a reputa- your work. He was demanding and about the car and more about the fact tion, to say the least. It wasn’t long would always have criticism for any that I was going to be late for school. before my classmates began to talk. partially carved tooth. I called the police to report the car Those who knew an upperclassman I was in the back of the room with missing. After I described the car, I was already had the inside information. a last name beginning with “T.” I used told to hold. This was before music The Saint was a jerk. to think that he didn’t like our class on hold. The long silence annoyed me He wasn’t very tall, and he walked much because he was never happy as I continued to think about missing with an unusual stride that made me when he got to the back row. The truth biochemistry at 8:30. think he either had a horrible horse- was he was just not a happy man. The officer returned to the phone back riding accident or was badly Like most students, I was not look- and told me that my car was at the mangled in the war. He would look at ing to be a standout during the first police station. It had been stolen you, and immediately you felt like few weeks. I just wanted to blend in. Sunday night and used in a robbery. you did when your father found out So, when my car was stolen outside (continued on page 6)

March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal 5 Impressions

The good news was that they caught that it was not a traffic ticket but a bored. He stopped me before I could the person who stole my car. The bad stolen car, my stolen car. He curtly finish and said, “Come with me.” news was that they would keep the said, change it. We walked down two flights of car for the day and I would not be able So, I called the police station and stairs, and as we approached his office, get it until later. I quickly ran and explained my problem. The officer I broke out in a cold sweat. We were caught the public bus for school and who answered the phone told me that going to talk to the Saint. Me and the arrived only one hour late. All day I would be at the hearing no matter Dean. We got to his office and walked my story was the talk of the class. We what. In fact, he said that if I didn’t right in. The Dean asked the Saint all had a good laugh knowing that I make it I would be in contempt and if he indeed had told me that I must would get the car later that day. they would send a cruiser to pick me be in class on the 28th. The Saint said So, that evening I took the bus from up! All I wanted to do was go to he didn’t have time for every excuse. school directly to the police station school. I didn’t want to deal with any He told the Dean that he had heard and asked to pick up my car. I was of this. The next day I went back to every story in the book and didn’t taken to a lot where I found my car. the Saint to explain what the police care what my problem was. Then the The front door was slightly open. The sergeant had said. I could tell that he Dean asked me to wait outside. I was officer told me that the door lock was wasn’t moved by local law enforcement going to fail for sure. After what broken and that a screwdriver was because he told me they could all go seemed like an hour but was actually used to turn the ignition on. He told to “H.” I had to be in class on the 28th just a few minutes, the Dean came me I was lucky. He also told me that I or I would fail. out, looked at me and smiled as he would have to appear in court in a I talked with my classmates and walked back to his office. The Saint few weeks because the guy who stole decided that I would have to go to the walked out and looked at me and said, my car said that I lent it to him. Dean. I walked to the Dean’s office. “Good luck.” He wasn’t endearing; it For the next week I drove to school Obviously this was not a part of sounded more like a threat. After that, with the ignition switch dangling from school that a freshman visits on a reg- whenever he got to my row in the the dashboard like a retractable faucet ular basis. It’s like the executive floor preclinic he would look at me and head from the kitchen sink. The of a financial institution. I went in then mumble something too faint to driver’s side door was held closed feeling like a third-grader who had understand. At the end of the semester with a bungee cord since it would no just been sent to the vice principal for I was surprised that I didn’t fail the longer latch. I was notified that I a nasty spitball incident. I told the course. Actually, I got an A. would need to appear in court on secretary that I was there to see the During my sophomore year my car October 28th. I knew I was in trouble dean on a private matter. The secretary finally died and I was mugged while when I checked my schedule to see told me to go inside, so I entered the trying to sell it for junk, but that’s a that I was going to miss dental inner sanctum. I sat patiently while the story for another time. Before gradua- anatomy. That day I went to the Saint Dean was on the phone. I overheard tion the Saint had retired, but every and explained that I would be out on something about hairspray, or time I go back to school I still feel him the 28th. He said no I wouldn’t. I whatever. He hung up and said hello. in the halls looking around, ready to showed him the subpoena from the I introduced myself and explained find another victim. local police. He told me that his class the problem I was having. I thought —BRT was more important than a traffic I was brief, but I had to tell him so ticket. I agreed, but tried to explain much that I could see he was getting

6 March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal Government Relations

In January, PDA hit the ground an additional dentist to the State Board simple “up or down” vote on a num- running in pursuing its legislative pri- of Dentistry, maintaining a solid ber of bills it had been assigned. orities for the final year of the 2009- majority of dentists to decide on dental PDA’s policy was reaffirmed after 2010 legislative session in Harrisburg. licensee issues. the Federal Drug Administration Having listened to members’ concerns PDA’s success in passing HB 602 is released a statement in July 2009 about advocating for issues that affect the result of the efforts made by our reclassifying dental amalgam, while you as a health care provider and members to educate lawmakers about also declaring that, “while elemental issues that will improve your patients’ EFDA practice, as well as your dues mercury has been associated with health, PDA is aggressively lobbying a dollars at work by having the lobby- adverse health effects at high expo- number of issues on your behalf. ists and staff to advocate on members’ sures, the levels released by dental Your help is always needed to behalf. amalgam fillings are not high enough ensure PDA’s success in the advocacy PDA thanks those of you who were to cause harm in patients.” With a arena. Please make sure you are involved in all of the grassroots initia- clear directive from our leadership to part of our advocacy program called tives at the local level to communicate oppose this legislation, PDA’s lobbyists CapWiz, which sends action alerts support for HB 602 to lawmakers and and staff implemented its advocacy to you via email, allowing you to type for responding to CapWiz action alerts. plans by first sending a letter to all in your home address and send a A special thanks goes to those committee members expressing letter directly to your representative members who testified at legislative opposition to HB 939. PDA also sent or senator. Contact the government hearings in support of this legislation. an action alert targeting members relations staff at [email protected], Stay tuned for more information who live in the committee members’ or (800) 223-0016 to make sure your when HB 602 is signed into law and districts. In the ensuing days, lobby- email address is in our files. takes effect in Pennsylvania. ists met with staff and legislators to Be assured that PDA is at the fore- communicate PDA’s position in an front of all legislative and regulatory PDA Stops Committee Vote: effort to keep the bill contained and activity in Pennsylvania, monitoring Bill Requiring Amalgam Brochures “kill” the bill in this committee. PDA’s dozens of bills affecting dentistry and Pulled from the Committee’s Agenda public relations consultant was on communicating PDA’s position with When PDA received word that the stand-by to handle possible media lawmakers regularly. Check out House Health and Human Services inquiries or stories generated by indi- PDA’s legislative bill tracking report Committee had on its January 20 viduals and groups opposed to dental at www.padental.org/GR for a full list- meeting agenda consideration of HB amalgam. ing of those bills. 939, we immediately stepped into PDA achieved great results with its action. House Bill 979, which was grassroots and lobbying efforts! Rep. Bradford asked that his bill be removed PDA’s Latest Victories introduced by Rep. Matthew Bradford (D-Montgomery), would require den- from the committee’s consideration Legislation Expanding EFDA Scope tists to distribute brochures to patients so that he had the opportunity to hear of Practice about avoiding cavities and mercury PDA’s concerns. Chairman Frank PDA is one step away from passing in dental amalgam. HB 979 is a Oliver (D-Philadelphia) pulled the bill HB 602, which requires a vote from companion (identical) bill to SB 407, from his committee’s agenda. the Senate before it is sent to the Sen. Daylin Leach’s (D-Montgomery) Special thanks goes to those mem- Governor for his signature. legislation, which had previously bers who took the time to contact their This legislation would allow garnered the most attention this leg- legislators who serve on the House Expanded Function Dental Assistants islative session. Health and Human Service Committee (EFDAs) to perform coronal polishing This was not a case of the committee to request their support of PDA’s and fluoride varnish, and take scheduling a hearing at which stake- impressions of teeth for athletic appli- holders could testify. It was a meeting (continued on page 8) ances. It also appoints one EFDA and at which the committee would give a

March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal 7 Government Relations position on HB 939. Your involvement PADPAC IN 2010 in our grassroots program illustrates From November 2009 through March 3, 2010, the Pennsylvania Dental just how influential every member’s Association Political Action Committee (PADPAC) recorded an increase of involvement in PDA’s advocacy efforts contributions in comparison to previous years. This year PDA has a PADPAC would be! contribution goal of $225,000 and we still have a long way to go to achieve PDA Introduces Certified Dental this goal. Please remember your voluntary PADPAC contribution provides Assistant Legislation essential financial support to achieve the goal identified by most members as Rep. Nick Kotik (D-Allegheny) being PDA’s primary function: to advocate on behalf of members and their agreed to introduce legislation on PDA’s patients on regulatory and legislative issues. behalf that would amend the Dental Your PADPAC contribution is even more important this year. 2010 is not Law to certify those dental assistants only an important election year for many state political candidates, but it is who receive formal training and pass also a year when PDA is fighting some of its most difficult and controversial a certification exam, thereby allowing legislative battles. It is equally important for PADPAC to have the ability to them to perform additional duties. influence the gubernatorial race because all of PDA’s legislation will eventu- These duties would be reversible ally require support from the Governor’s Administration. PDA can only be procedures performed under dentists’ successful in our advocacy efforts if we maintain a strong PADPAC presence direct supervision in any setting. in Harrisburg. To become certified by the State The following are the most recent figures available for PADPAC contribu- Board of Dentistry, a dental assistant tions, listed by district. Please do whatever you can to contribute, or if you would need to meet the following have already joined PADPAC this year, consider donating again. Encourage requirements: your colleagues to contribute to PADPAC in the coming days. • Verify at least 3,500 hours of A PADPAC membership form is available on PDA’s website at clinical experience practicing as www.padental.org. Or please contact Marisa Swarney at [email protected] a dental assistant. or (800) 223-0016, ext. 108, if you wish to donate. • Hold a current cardiopulmonary resuscitation certificate. • Successfully pass the Dental 2010 District PADPAC Statistics Assistant National Board’s dental % of contributing assistant examination. PDA members Highest Level Contributors If this legislation passes, certified dental assistants (CDA) could perform District 1 16% Dr. Sylvan Morein (Liberty) coronal polishing on children up to District 2 22% Dr. Richard J. Clark (Liberty) the age of 17, fluoride treatments Dr. Bernard P. Dishler (Liberty) (including varnish) and taking impres- Dr. Linda K. Himmelberger (Liberty) sions of teeth for athletic appliances. Dr. Edmund K. McGurk (Liberty) CDAs may also perform other procedures not restricted to dentists, Dr. Eugene J. McGuire (Capitol) dental hygienists or expanded func- Dr. Nicholas A. Hatges (Capitol) tion dental assistants. District 3 35% Dr. Joseph T. Kelly Jr. (Capitol) HB 2326 is assigned to the House District 4 29% Dr. Michael S. Shuman (Capitol) Professional Licensure Committee. District 5 28% Dr. Thomas P. Dudas Jr. (Capitol) PDA expects the committee to sched- District 6 34% ule a public hearing in the spring or District 7 32% summer, at which stakeholders may testify. District 8 28% Dr. Jon J. Johnston (Liberty) District 9 30% Dr. Dennis J. Charlton (Liberty) District 10 21% Dr. Herbert L. Ray (Liberty) Dr. R. Donald Hoffman (Capitol)

8 March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal Membership Matters

A Look at Pennsylvania’s Dental Demographics By Tori Rineer, Membership Coordinator

It is no surprise that Pennsylvania PDA’s database, since 1998, the average uating dental students in PA, it is is facing a shortage of dental practition- retirement age of a PDA member is expected to take at least 50 years to ers. As the baby-boomer generation 68 years. As the majority of dentists replace the practicing Pennsylvania of dentists in Pennsylvania continues approach retirement age, it is vital educated dentists. to age, the current trend of retention that we attract the younger generation It is encouraging to see that the and migration of dental students to our of practitioners to remain or practice current trend at The University of state is decreasing, causing a potential in this state after graduation from Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine shortage of dentists, yet a great demand dental school. and Kornberg School of Dentistry at for services remains. In other words, According to research conducted Temple University shows an equal or Pennsylvania’s patient population is by Myron R. Schwartz, published in higher enrollment percentage of PA expected to continue to increase and the October 2007 issue of the Journal residents. the dentist population is expected to of Dental Education, the Pennsylvania Looking at projections for the next continue to decrease. dentist pipeline is not adequately few decades, it is estimated that there In Pennsylvania, nearly 58 percent of developed to repopulate the current will be more retiring dentists than practicing dentists are over the age of Pennsylvania-educated dentist work- new dentists entering the work force. 50 and will be planning to retire within force, especially in rural areas. Based the next 15 to 20 years. According to on the current retention rate of grad- (continued on page 10)

DENTAL CLASS PA OUT-OF STATE TOTAL PERCENTAGE DENTAL SCHOOL GRADUATION YEAR RESIDENT STUDENTS CLASS OF PA RESIDENTS

University of Pittsburgh 2000 61 20 81 75% University of Pittsburgh 2008 35 38 73 48% University of Pittsburgh 2011 40 40 80 50%

University of Pennsylvania 2000 26 71 97 27% University of Pennsylvania 2008 19 97 116 16% University of Pennsylvania 2011 16 101 117 13%

Kornberg School of Dentistry 2000 40 79 119 34% Kornberg School of Dentistry 2008 40 85 125 32% Kornberg School of Dentistry 2011 64 61 125 51%

March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal 9 Membership Matters

It is imperative that the retirement process and factors leading to retirement be considered well in advance of when you plan to retire. The suggested time frame of the retirement transition plan should span 5 to 10 years. In this time, a buyer or associate needs to be selected with the goal of the practice changing hands of ownership. PDA members have the advantage over non-members in being exposed to more opportunities that will promote their practice. The following are just a few resources available exclusively to PDA members to help get the word out that you are looking for an associate or a buyer. • Networking – attend district and local meetings. Being involved in your profession is the best way to know who may be looking for an opportunity or to purchase Source: American Dental Association a practice. • Placement Service – Complimentary • Associateships: A Guide for Owners electronic enrollment to post your and Prospective Associates • Established relationship with the opening on a secured site. dental schools - Promote in dental • Building Successful Associateships www.padental.org/placementservice schools. Lunch & Learn • Closing a Dental Practice: A Guide • Classified ads – Post a classified presentations are an effective way for the Retiring Dentist or Surviving ad in the Journal and receive a to attract the younger generation Spouse complimentary posting to the of dental practitioners. • Successful Valuation of a Dental www.padental.org/ PDA website, Practice • Student outreach events – by classifieds. You have the potential attending PDA student outreach to reach more than 5,500 dental These manuals will help you pre- events, you take advantage professionals. pare a timeline for your retirement to of the opportunity to interact ensure you are on track for a success- one-on-one with the future leaders In addition to these resources, PDA ful retirement. of the profession. This is a great members also can take advantage of It is never too early to plan for the way to meet eager and enthusiastic the wealth of materials available in next step in your career. Preparation young dentists. the PDA Members’ Library to enhance for retirement can be an involved your knowledge and understanding • Become a Mentor – participating process, but the more time you devote, of retirement and the steps of selling in the Statewide Mentoring Program the greater the promise of a successful your practice or hiring an associate. is a valuable way to mentor new return on your investment. Allow dentists and dental students, Useful manuals include: PDA to assist you with your endeavors. which could lead to a possible asso- • Transitions: Navigating Sales, Visit www.padental.org/library to ciateship or partnership in practice. Associateships & Partnerships in browse the available materials or call www.padental.org/mentoring Your Dental Practice the Central Office at (800) 223-0016 • Valuing a Practice: A Guide for Dentists with any questions.

10 March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal Membership Matters

Welcome New Members! Following is a listing of members who have recently joined PDA, along with the dental schools from which they graduated and their hometowns. Dr. Mark Antonis Dr. Keith R. Boyer Dr. Amy J. Liao Dr. Mitchell Somers Temple University University of the Pacific The University of Michigan University of Pittsburgh Bethlehem Philadelphia Philadelphia Oil City

Dr. William P. Baran Dr. Sameera Hussain Dr. Kunjal Patel Dr. Dave Sullivan Georgetown University Boston University University of Buffalo University of Pittsburgh Lambertville, NJ Harrisburg Amherst Pittsburgh

Dr. Lesley T. M. Baratz Dr. Madhusudhan Kasipathi Dr. Keyur Patoliya Dr. Chad M. Zahm Temple University New York University Tufts University Temple University Hanover Reading Hatfield Marietta

Dr. Alessandro Bartoletti Dr. Kevin Krick Dr. Joo Shim Temple University Temple University Temple University Mount Joy Newtown Square Philadelphia

March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal 11

Insurance Connection

Attention PDA Members: Legislative Action Alert!

Sen. Kim Ward (R-Westmoreland) dental care. PDA is working hard to dentists who are no longer able introduced legislation on PDA’s educate lawmakers about how this to charge their usual and customary behalf, which will prohibit insurance insurance policy truly impacts the rates for non-covered services could companies from dictating the amount dental practice and your patients. be significant. dentists may charge for services not Please contact your senator today • New dental school graduates may covered under a plan. SB 1222 was and request that he or she support seek employment in other states assigned to the Senate Banking and legislation that will prohibit insurers with higher reimbursements and Insurance Committee for considera- from regulating the fees charged for lesser restrictions. Pennsylvania tion. If passed by this committee, non-covered services. currently only retains 30 percent of SB 1222 will move to the Senate their dental graduates. Appropriations Committee, then the The Issue • The action being fundamentally full Senate for a vote. Many dentists who participate with insurance companies are being unfair for an insurer to dictate fees We need YOUR help! Contact your asked to sign contracts that will on procedures they do not cover. Senator and request support for Sen. prohibit them from charging patients This begs the question — why Ward’s bill. their usual and customary fees for aren’t insurers covering MORE While insurance companies have non-covered services. The impact of procedures. more money financing their lobbying this contractual change for dental • Concern about potential disruptions efforts, they lack the grassroots net- practices could be devastating if the to the doctor patient relationship work of constituents to establish con- reimbursement for non-covered serv- if a dentist can no longer afford to tact and relationships with legislators. ices is too low for dentists to cover treat patients with an insurance These same constituents then vote their overhead expenses and pay their plan that caps non-covered services for or against legislators come election employees. Dentists may have to and a patient is forced to find time. That is why your participation choose between economic hardship another provider. with this action alert is so critical. and disrupting relationships with • There may be increased costs in PDA has one year to advance SB patients if they are forced to drop out other areas and to other patients that 1222 through the legislature as far as of network. will be necessary for dentists to possible. At the end of 2010, all According to the ADA, this is a offset the artificial fees for non-cov- legislation introduced this session will business decision on the carriers’ part, ered services. “die” and need to be reintroduced. with full awareness of the implica- Your regular participation in grass- tions for relations with their provider • Effective incentives and insurance roots efforts during the course of the networks. In down economic times, reforms are needed to attract more year is essential to moving SB 1222 this is a calculated risk they may be dentists to Pennsylvania. Some through committees and to the House willing to take to reduce costs and shift interesting statistics are provided on and Senate floor. risk to provider networks to remain the next page that can be used to We expect strong opposition from competitive in the marketplace. make the point that many dental the insurance industry, as has been graduates are choosing to practice in seen in other states whose insurance Talking Points to Use When Calling other states and that Pennsylvania companies launched marketing Your Senator: has to provide more incentives for campaigns to the public about how • Discuss how the financial impact dentists to practice in the state: “dentists are driving up the costs” of that this new policy will have on (continued on page 14)

March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal 13 Insurance Connection

• Pennsylvania’s retention rate for recent dental school graduates is low, 30 percent compared to the national mean retention rate for public state-related schools of 65.4 percent. Many opt to prac- tice in neighboring states such as New Jersey and New York because they have a friendlier business environment. • The Mid-Atlantic region, of which Pennsylvania is part, ranks sixth of nine regions for having recruited 2007 graduates of dental schools to active practice. • The Pennsylvania Business Council grades Pennsylvania a “C” for economic growth and competitiveness. Dental students are attracted to other states with a robust and growing population that provide an adequate patient pool for their practices. • Reimbursement rates for dental procedures in Pennsylvania are lower than nearby states or the national average, putting the state at a disadvantage with attracting dentists. According to the American Dental Association’s Survey Center, Pennsylvania averages 5 to 10 percent lower with its reimbursement rates. • More than 50 percent of actively practicing dentists in Pennsylvania will retire in about 10 years. According to an article by Myron R. Schwartz in the October 2007 issue of the Journal of Dental Education, the dentist pipeline in Pennsylvania is not adequately developed to repopulate the cur- rent dentist workforce, especially in rural areas.

14 March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal Insurance Connection

SAMPLE LETTER Dear Senator: As a constituent and one of the 5,500 members of the Pennsylvania Dental Association (PDA) I am writing to respectfully request that you support SB 1222, legislation that would prohibit insurance companies from capping fees on services that they have decided not to cover in the dental plans they offer to consumers. Sen. Kim Ward introduced SB 1222 and it is now assigned to the Senate Banking and Insurance Committee. I urge you to fully support SB 1222 and to aid in its passage through the Senate as soon as possible. As a practicing dentist, I feel this practice is simply unfair and is another example of the uneven playing field in which dentists practice in Pennsylvania. Insurers should not be able to dictate fees on procedures they have arbitrarily decided not to cover. Dental practices such as mine will be adversely affected by yet another insurance practice that clearly demonstrates insurers’ ability to abuse the market and set artificial prices on dental services. Dentists who participate with insurance companies understand that fee schedules are capped for services covered under the plan; however, setting caps on services not covered under those plans forces dentists to shift or absorb costs. I feel that this practice will impact dentists’ ability to control costs with other aspects of their practice, such as the number of patients they can treat, number of staff they employ and the type of services providers. Patients are also adversely impacted because this policy essentially gives insurance companies the ability to ration care and shift costs to those who do not have dental insurance. This may cause disruptions to the doctor-patient relationship and some patients may need to delay necessary treatment due to financial concerns. This insurance practice ultimately impacts Pennsylvanians’ ability to access dental care. Pennsylvania currently retains only 30 percent of its dental school graduates due partly to friendlier economic and insurance environments in neighboring states. As a PDA member, our staff hears these complaints first hand from dental students across Pennsylvania. Also, reimbursement rates for dental procedures in Pennsylvania are lower than nearby states or the national average, putting the state at a disadvantage with attracting dentists. In addition to these concerns, more than 50 percent of actively practicing dentists in Pennsylvania will retire in about 10 years. According to an article by Myron R. Schwartz in the October 2007 issue of the Journal of Dental Education, the dentist pipeline in Pennsylvania will not be able to repopulate the current dentist workforce, especially in rural areas. We must do all we can to attract new dentists to Pennsylvania instead of providing them with more incentive to leave the state. Passing SB 1222 to prohibit unfair insurance practices will help to make Pennsylvania a more attractive state in which to practice dentistry. I urge you to do all you can to pass SB 1222. The value of access to quality dental care to all citi- zens can only be measured in the view that oral health is an integral component of total body health. Thank you for your attention to this important issue. Please do not hesitate to contact me directly or PDA’s government relations staff at (717) 234-5941, if you have any questions or concerns. Sincerely,

Your Name

March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal 15 Insurance Connection

Your Senator’s Contact Information Have a question about who represents you in the Senate? Contact PDA’s government relations staff at (800) 223-0016. Or access this information on the Pennsylvania General Assembly’s website at www.legis.state.pa.us, by typing your zip code into the box on the right hand corner of the front page. Those Senators with an “*” after their name are members of the Banking and Insurance Committee. These members especially need to hear from you so that SB 1222 begins to “move” through the legislative process.

The Honorable Richard Alloway The Honorable Jake Corman* The Honorable Lawrence Farnese* Senate of Pennsylvania Senate of Pennsylvaniaa Senate of Pennsylvania 187 Capitol Building 281 Capitol Building 458 Capitol Building Harrisburg, PA 17120 Harrisburg, PA 17120 Harrisburg, PA 17120 (717) 787-4651 • (717) 772-2753 fax (717) 787-1377 • (717) 772-3146 fax (717) 787-5662 • (717) 787-4531 fax [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] The Honorable David Argall The Honorable Jay Costa The Honorable Jim Ferlo Senate of Pennsylvania Senate of Pennsylvania Senate of Pennsylvania 168 Capitol Building 545 Capitol Building 535 Capitol Building Harrisburg, PA 17120 Harrisburg, PA 17120 Harrisburg, PA 17120 (717) 787-2637 • (717) 783-8657 fax (717) 787-7683 • (717) 783-5976 fax (717) 787-6123 • (717) 772-3695 fax [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] The Honorable Lisa Baker The Honorable Andrew Dinniman The Honorable Mike Folmer Senate of Pennsylvania Senate of Pennsylvania Senate of Pennsylvania 172 Capitol Building 183 Capitol Building 170 Capitol Building Harrisburg, PA 17120 Harrisburg, PA 17120 Harrisburg, PA 17120 (717) 787-7428 • (717) 787-9242 fax (717) 787-5709 • (717) 787-4384 fax (717) 787-5708 • (717) 787-3455 fax [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] The Honorable Lisa Boscola* The Honorable Jane Earll* The Honorable Wayne Fontana Senate of Pennsylvania Senate of Pennsylvania Senate of Pennsylvania 458 Capitol Building 177 Capitol Building 15 East Wing Harrisburg, PA 17120 Harrisburg, PA 17120 Harrisburg, PA 17120 (717) 787-4236 • (717) 783-1257 fax (717) 787-8927 • (717) 772-1588 fax (717) 787-5300 • (717) 772-5484 fax [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] The Honorable Patrick Browne* The Honorable John Eichelberger The Honorable John Gordner Senate of Pennsylvania Senate of Pennsylvania Senate of Pennsylvania 171 Capitol Building 460 Capitol Building 351 Capitol Building Harrisburg, PA 17120 Harrisburg, PA 17120 Harrisburg, PA 17120 (717) 787-1349 • (717) 772-3458 fax (717) 787-5490 • (717) 783-5192 fax (717) 787-8928 • (717) 787-9715 fax [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] The Honorable Michael Brubaker The Honorable Edwin Erickson The Honorable Stewart Greenleaf* Senate of Pennsylvania Senate of Pennsylvania Senate of Pennsylvania 16 East Wing 281 Capitol Building 19 East Wing Harrisburg, PA 17120 Harrisburg, PA 17120 Harrisburg, PA 17120 (717) 787-4420 • (717) 783-3156 fax (717) 787-1350 • (717) 787-0196 fax (717) 787-6599 • (717) 783-7328 fax [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

16 March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal Insurance Connection

The Honorable Vincent Hughes The Honorable Michael O’Pake The Honorable Lloyd Smucker Senate of Pennsylvania Senate of Pennsylvania Senate of Pennsylvania 543 Capitol Building 11 East Wing 185 Capitol Building Harrisburg, PA 17120 Harrisburg, PA 17120 Harrisburg, PA 17120 (717) 787-7112 • (717) 772-0579 fax (717) 787-8925 • (717) 772-0578 fax (717) 787-6535 • (717) 772-5471 fax [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] The Honorable Richard Kasunic The Honorable Jane Clare Orie The Honorable Michael Stack* Senate of Pennsylvania Senate of Pennsylvania Senate of Pennsylvania 458 Capitol Building 362 Capitol Building 543 Capitol Building Harrisburg, PA 17120 Harrisburg, PA 17120 Harrisburg, PA 17120 (717) 787-7175 • (717) 787-0195 fax (717) 787-6538 • (717) 787-8625 fax (717) 787-9608 • (717) 772-2162 fax [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] The Honorable Shirley Kitchen The Honorable Jeffrey Piccola The Honorable J. Barry Stout Senate of Pennsylvania Senate of Pennsylvania Senate of Pennsylvania 463 Capitol Building 173 Capitol Building 10 East Wing Harrisburg, PA 17120 Harrisburg, PA 17120 Harrisburg, PA 17120 (717) 787-6735 • (717) 772-0581 fax (717) 787-6801 • (717) 783-3722 (717) 787-1463 • (717) 772-2108 fax [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] The Honorable Daylin Leach The Honorable Dominic Pileggi The Honorable Christine Tartaglione* Senate of Pennsylvania Senate of Pennsylvania Senate of Pennsylvania 184 Capitol Building 350 Capitol Building 458 Capitol Building Harrisburg, PA 17120 Harrisburg, PA 17120 Harrisburg, PA 17120 (717) 787-5544 • (717) 705-7741 fax (717) 787-4712 • (717) 783-7490 fax (717) 787-1141 • (717) 787-7439 fax [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] The Honorable Sean Logan The Honorable John Pippy The Honorable Robert Tomlinson Senate of Pennsylvania Senate of Pennsylvania Senate of Pennsylvania 543 Capitol Building 168 Capitol Building 362 Capitol Building Harrisburg, PA 17120 Harrisburg, PA 17120 Harrisburg, PA 17120 (717) 787-5580 • (717) 772-3588 fax (717) 787-5839 • (717) 772-4437 (717) 787-5072 • (717) 772-2991 fax [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] The Honorable Charles McIlhinney The Honorable John Rafferty, Jr.* The Honorable Patricia Vance* Senate of Pennsylvania Senate of Pennsylvania Senate of Pennsylvania 187 Capitol Building 20 East Wing 168 Capitol Building Harrisburg, PA 17120 Harrisburg, PA 17120 Harrisburg, PA 17120 (717) 787-7305 • (717) 783-5962 fax (717) 787-1398 • (717) 783-4587 fax (717) 787-8524 • (717) 772-0576 fax [email protected] jrafferty@pasengov [email protected] The Honorable Robert Mellow The Honorable Robert Robbins The Honorable Elder Vogel, Jr. Senate of Pennsylvania Senate of Pennsylvania Senate of Pennsylvania 535 Capitol Building 337 Capitol Building 457 Capitol Building Harrisburg, PA 17120 Harrisburg, PA 17120 Harrisburg, PA 17120 (717) 787-6481 • (717) 783-5198 fax (717) 787-1322 • (717) 772-0577 fax (717) 787-3076 • (717) 772-2756 fax [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] The Honorable Raphael Musto The Honorable Joseph Scarnati* The Honorable Kim Ward* Senate of Pennsylvania Senate of Pennsylvania Senate of Pennsylvania 17 East Wing 292 Capitol Building 459 Capitol Building Harrisburg, PA 17120 Harrisburg, PA 17120 Harrisburg, PA 17120 (717) 787-7105 • (717) 783-4141 fax (717) 787-7084 • (717) 772-2755 fax (717) 787-6063 • (717) 772-0580 fax [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal 17 Insurance Connection

The Honorable Leanna Washington Senate of Pennsylvania 352 Capitol Building Harrisburg, PA 17120 What Does Your Contract Say? (717) 787-1427 • (717) 772-0572 fax In December, representatives from PDA met with regulatory officials [email protected] at the Department of Insurance (DOI). The purpose of this meeting The Honorable Michael Waugh was to discuss most insurers’ practice to cap fees for non-covered Senate of Pennsylvania dental services. 9 East Wing Harrisburg, PA 17120 At this meeting, PDA inquired whether DOI has the ability to (717) 787-3817 • (717) 783-1900 fax prohibit this insurance practice through regulation alone, or whether [email protected] legislation needs to be enacted to enforce this prohibition. DOI expressed interest in researching whether it has the authority to The Honorable Donald White* promulgate regulations on its own but requested more information Senate of Pennsylvania from PDA before doing so. 286 Capitol Building Harrisburg, PA 17120 While still pursing legislation at the state level by asking Sen. Ward (717) 787-8724 • (717) 772-1589 fax to introduce legislation, PDA plans to continue its dialogue with [email protected] DOI to ascertain whether regulations can be drafted to prohibit this The Honorable Mary Jo White insurance practice. Most often it is easier and less time-consuming Senate of Pennsylvania to work through the regulatory process than to wait until legislation 169 Capitol Building is enacted. Harrisburg, PA 17120 (717) 787-9684 • (717) 772-3459 fax But we need your help in building our case with DOI for the need [email protected] to prohibit this insurance practice. The Honorable Anthony Williams* There may be a provision in your existing contracts regarding Senate of Pennsylvania discounted plans. PDA would like to determine the extent to which 366 Capitol Building a discounted plan provision extends to non-covered services. PDA Harrisburg, PA 17120 would especially like to see the contracts of those members recently (717) 787-5970 • (717) 772-0574 fax contacted by any insurance company about this issue. [email protected] Please mail, fax or email a copy of your contract(s) to: The Honorable Robert Wonderling Senate of Pennsylvania Pennsylvania Dental Association 281 Capitol Building Attn: Marisa Swarney Harrisburg, PA 17120 3501 North Front Street (717) 787-3110 • (717) 787-8004 fax Harrisburg, PA 17105 [email protected] (717) 232-7169 fax [email protected] The Honorable John Wozniak Senate of Pennsylvania Questions? Please contact Marisa Swarney, director of government 182 Capitol Building relations, at (800) 223-0016 or [email protected]. Harrisburg, PA 17120 (717) 787-5400 • (717) 772-0573 fax [email protected] The Honorable Gene Yaw Senate of Pennsylvania 457 Capitol Building Harrisburg, PA 17120 (717) 787-3280 • (717) 772-0575 fax [email protected]

18 March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal PDA Social Network is Open for Business! By Jessica S. Forte, Component Relations Manager

PDA is pleased to launch its private social network for members! This network will give you the ability to have increased communication with PDA leaders and staff, as well as with your colleagues. Some highlights of the new software include: • Open forums for discussing dental office equipment and products, legislative topics and practice management issues. • A library for you to search and share documents, as well as provide product reviews and share testimonials. • Public and private groups that serve as an electronic mailing list. • An online calendar, giving you access to upcoming events across the state. • A personal profile for sharing and connecting with colleagues. There is all of this and much more. The new communication possibilities provided by this social network are endless. Log on today and try it out for yourself.

(continued on next page)

March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal 19 Instructions a. Add a photo of yourself. (Browse your computer files for a photo of yourself, select the photo you would like, If at any time you need assistance, please e-mail your and click “Upload”) questions to [email protected]. You may b. Choose which address you would like to appear on also call (800) 223-0016 during regular business hours, your profile (remember, only member dentists and Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m., for assistance.) PDA Staff can view this information) c. Map your address by using the Google Maps function. d. Add a bio of yourself. Getting Started e. In the “tags” section, include a few one-word topics 1. Open your internet browser and visit that interest you. For example you might list www.community.padental.org “Orthodontics, dogs, skiing.” By doing this you will be able to find colleagues with common interests. 2. Login the same way you would to the PDA website. Your default user name is your first initial, last name and Your Colleagues four-digit year of birth with no spaces (e.g., asmith1974); your default password is your ADA membership number 1. Click the Members tab on the horizontal main menu preceded by the letters “ADA” (e.g., ADA123456789). to explore your network of colleagues. You can view all, or sort by the first letter of their last name. 3. Once logged in, you will be prompted to read and accept the terms of use. This will happen only once. You will not be prompted to do this during any future logins. 4. You are now on the PDA Social Network welcome page! 5. Bookmark www.community.padental.org now for quick access in the future.

2. Using the search bar just below the horizontal main menu, you can search for a colleague by entering their first and last name. You can also search for people in your community by entering your city. (Try searching your alma mater to find long lost classmates.) 3. If the person you’re looking for does not appear in your search, it is likely they have not logged on to the Your Profile social network yet. Perhaps a friendly e-mail or 1. In the top right hand corner of the page, you will find phone call might encourage them to get started and your HUB. Click on “My Profile” you can navigate the new social network together.

Exploring the Calendar 1. Click the Calendar tab on the horizontal main menu to 2. Your information has been pre-loaded into the system, view the user-friendly calendar. so you will see that some of the fields in your profile 2. Using the image links in the upper right hand corner are already populated. of the calendar, you can view by month, year, or even 3. In the far left column you will see see the events on a map! links for editing each of the sections 3. Scrolling below the Calendar to the “Quick Navigation” of your profile. Here are some tasks box, will allow you to move quickly to the particular to get you started: month or year your’re interested in viewing. 4. Click on any event listed on the calendar to view more in depth details about the events start time, location and contact information.

20 March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal b. A menu will drop down. Click “Subscribe to this Forum.” c. Choose your notification preference and click “Add subscription.”

Exploring the Library 1. Click the Library tab on the horizontal main menu to view the PDA Social Network Library. 2. A number of documents have been added already for your convenience in the “Member Resources” Folder as well as Quick Links to PDA’s website. 3. Here you can add product reviews, testimonials or any type of document you’d like to share with your colleagues. Try adding your own testimonial – why do you value your PDA membership? Exploring Forums A forum, or message board, is an online discussion site. A forum consists of a tree-like directory structure containing at the lowest end topics (commonly called threads) and inside them posts. 1. Click the Forum tab on the horizontal main menu to view the wide variety of forums offered in PDA’s Social Network. 2. Click on a topic that interests you and contribute to or start a new thread by clicking the “New Thread” button. A thread is a question or comment you’d like to make on a particular issue. For instance, you might want to inquire about a piece of equipment you’re considering for your office. See if others have the equipment and what they like/dislike about it. 3. Once you’ve composed your post, but before submit- ting it, please scroll down to the “Additional Options” As you become more comfortable with the social network, section. Here you can add attachments, subscribe to consider the volunteer opportunities PDA has available this thread to receive e-mail notifications of future posts within the social network: and even post a poll! • Forum moderators 4. If you are interested in more than one thread in the • Public or Private Group (electronic mailing list) forum, you can subscribe to an entire forum: administrators a. On the main page of the forum, on the top right of the first blue box is a button named “Forum Tools.” For more information on volunteering within PDA’s Click this button. Social Network or to request a public or private group be created, contact Jessica Forte at (800) 223-0016, ext. 134 or [email protected].

The future of communication is here. Start networking with your colleagues today!

March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal 21

Cyber Salon

Watch Out Facebook — PDA’s Social Networking Site Ready to Debut By Brian Mark Schwab, DMD, Associate Editor

In a previous article (September/ – hobbies, education, interests. that your tags will appear in your left October 2009 issue), I introduced the These will become important, and in hand column (near the bottom) and concept of and reasoning behind a minute you will see why. may be different sizes. The larger and online social networking. Websites Another really neat feature of our bolder each tag is, the more people like Facebook, Twitter and MySpace social networking site is that searching there are that share that interest. By were examined and critiqued. for another member or a staff member clicking on my Politics tag, I can then I am particularly excited to tell you is extremely simple. You can easily see who else on the network is inter- that PDA is introducing its very own find your friends and local colleagues ested in Politics. Imagine the doors social networking site. Our site is on the site simply by searching for you can open with this tool alone! intended to be very simple to use, them using last name or city. This, in and of itself, is one of the accessible from the PDA website and appealing to all stages of membership from the new graduate to retired den- tists. A few weeks ago, I was selected to participate in a beta launching of our new social networking software along with other members of the Board of Trustees and members of the PDA staff. Here are some of my perceptions of this software as it is officially introduced, as well as some of the ways I think every member could benefit from using it. One of the greatest components of PDA’s social networking site is the fact that it is data integrated. This means that every member’s general data is already entered into the net- working site. PDA has already created your profiles to some degree, includ- ing your name, office address, email address and contact phone numbers. Upon logging into the site, using your Finding colleagues with similar hearts of social networking…discover- current PDA website name and pass- interests as you is also easy using Tag ing commonalities among colleagues. word, your general information will Clouds. No, it’s not some new DentalTown has a very successful already be there and you will be able atmospheric phenomenon; it’s a way website that promotes the discussion to customize your profile by adding of tagging yourself with hobbies or of clinical dentistry. Members who a picture of yourself. Adding a picture interests you may have. When editing chat on DentalTown are called is not necessary to begin taking your profile, in the Edit Tags section “Townies.” This is another example of advantage of all the benefits the site simply add some one-word tags that social networking, but with a clinical will offer you, but isn’t a picture worth pertain to you. For example, I listed twist. To discuss treatment outcomes a thousand words? You should also music, tennis, theatre and politics. add some information about yourself Upon saving your profile, you’ll notice (continued on page 23)

March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal 23 Cyber Salon and pre-treatment plans with other been earned. Your fellow colleagues member dentists at a moment’s notice dentists allows for a “classroom-like” will definitely give you first-person that a bill has been introduced that learning environment in the comfort advice, unbiased and honest. All the will greatly affect the practice of of your own office or living room. time you will save trying to contact dentistry. We currently use CapWiz One drawback of DentalTown is that your dental friends to pick their brains for this sort of outreach, but there is you are discussing clinical dentistry will add up and you will soon see no current way for us to discuss the with an international audience. In why so many millions of Americans pros and cons of what we are writing dentistry, there are a lot of variations are using social networking every day. our legislators about. Imagine how within our own country, not to men- It saves so much time! helpful this software could have been tion adding Europe or Asia into the It is probably safe to say that every last year when the Philadelphia City mix. Not to borrow the line from the problem a dentist can encounter on the Council was working on the amalgam Beach Boys, but “wouldn’t it be nice” job has been encountered previously issue. No long distance phone calls, to be able to discuss clinical dentistry by another dentist. From technical no interruption of your day, just log with colleagues in your own zip code? issues, to impassable root canals, to in and type away. Check back a few From endodontics to insurance reim- tricky orthodontic cases, not to men- hours later and you may have a bursements and coding and human tion all the legal aspects of being a wealth of free information from your resource management, social net- business owner; dentists run into a lot colleagues at your fingertips. Now working will set the stage for easy dis- of roadblocks on a day-to-day basis. that is what I call an invaluable inter- cussion about anything related to the Every dentist is trained to solve action and a tremendous membership practice of dentistry. problems and to think critically. Not benefit. Sound good thus far? How will every one of us is equipped with the After reading this article and you utilize it? Imagine that you are mastery to deal with every problem. Jessica Forte’s feature on page 19, and interested in upgrading your office to We each have different strengths and watching your email for additional digital radiography. You can log into weaknesses. This is where social information on PDA’s social network, PDA’s social networking site and networking will really be a blessing. we hope you take a few minutes to create a new thread in the Equipment Ask your colleagues across the state join the network. It is free, easy, and and Products Forum asking other for their advice. It happens every day I promise you it will be interesting. members for their experiences with on DentalTown. A dentist in Utah I am extremely excited to see PDA digital X-ray systems. Other members asks a question and a few hours later, enter the market of social networking. can comment, make suggestions and there are hundreds of posts, visible to It is obvious that it is not a fad or a recommendations, remind you of everyone, from dentists and specialists trend. Other sites like Facebook are certain deals, etc., all of which can and all over the world. We can do that more popular than ever and although will save you time and money. Will right here in Pennsylvania but our site our site will be extremely specialized the sales representative tell you about will allow for much more then just to meet the needs of dentists right all of the limitations of a certain piece “dental” talk. Allow me to illustrate here in Pennsylvania, there will of equipment? No, because once how! undoubtedly be a great element of fun your signature is on the invoice, all Organized dentistry has always had for all of us who utilize it. troubleshooting goes to another level its niche in legislative advocacy. Happy Social Networking! and the salesman’s commission has Imagine being able to inform 5,500

24 March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal Evidence-Based Dentistry Dentists are challenged every day with information from a myriad of sources – trade journals, juried journals, dental lectures and product marketing to name a few. How to know who and what to believe has become our greatest challenge. Evidence-based dentistry is our newest tool to discover the real truth about what works and what is the best treatment for our patients. The leading authority on evidence-based dentistry is the Cochrane Collaboration.

About The Cochrane Collaboration The Cochrane Collaboration is an international not-for-profit and independent organization, dedicated to making up-to-date, accurate infor- mation about the effects of health care readily available worldwide. It produces and disseminates systematic reviews of health-care interventions and promotes the search for evidence in the form of clinical trials and other studies of interventions. The Cochrane Collaboration was founded in 1993 and named after the British epidemiologist, Archie Cochrane. The major product of the Collaboration is the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, which is published quarterly as part of The Cochrane Library. Those who prepare the reviews are mostly health-care professionals who volunteer to work in one of the many Cochrane Review Groups, with editorial teams overseeing the preparation and maintenance of the reviews, as well as application of the rigorous quality standards for which Cochrane Reviews have become known. The activities of the Collaboration are directed by an elected Steering Group and are supported by staff in Cochrane Entities (Centres, Review Groups, Methods Groups, Fields/Networks) around the world.

March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal 25 Evidence-Based Dentistry

The Cochrane Library Collaboration. The Cochrane Library in health care, the complete reviews It is a difficult task for practitioners is published on a quarterly basis are published in The Cochrane Library to keep up-to-date with the relevant and made available both on CD-ROM four times a year. Each issue contains evidence in their field of interest: the and the Internet. It is the best single all existing reviews, plus an increasing major bibliographic databases cover source of reliable evidence about the range of new and updated reviews. less than half the world’s literature and effects of health care. The full text of A complete Spanish version of each are biased towards English-language all Cochrane databases are available to issue is published three months after publications; textbooks, editorials and subscribers via its publisher Wiley. its English publication date in La reviews that have not been prepared The Cochrane Library Users’ Group Biblioteca Cochrane Plus. systematically may be unreliable; much (CLUG) provides a forum for discus- evidence is unpublished, but unpub- sion of usability, readability, searcha- Review abstracts and plain lished evidence may be important; bility and formatting issues related to language summaries and more easily accessible research the use of The Cochrane Library. The abstracts of Cochrane reviews reports tend to exaggerate the benefits are available free of charge and pro- of interventions. Cochrane reviews vide a valuable source of health care The Cochrane Library solves many Based on the best available informa- information. Where available, plain of these problems. It consists of a tion about health-care interventions, language summaries are also provided. regularly updated collection of evi- Cochrane reviews explore the evidence These are short synopses of the dence-based medicine databases, for and against the effectiveness and reviews’ core findings, with a minimum including The Cochrane Database of appropriateness of treatments of technical terms. All abstracts and Systematic Reviews. This database (medications, surgery, education, etc) summaries are also available in includes systematic reviews of health- in specific circumstances. Designed to Spanish, and a selection is available care interventions that are produced facilitate the choices that doctors, in German. and disseminated by The Cochrane patients, policy makers and others face

26 March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal Evidence Based Dentistry Cochrane Review Selection criteria Plain language summary All RCTs of osseointegrated dental Interventions for replacing Interventions for Replacing implants comparing the same dental missing teeth: one- versus two- Missing Teeth: One- Versus Two- implants placed according to one- versus stage implant placement Stage Implant Placement two-stage procedures with a minimum Dental implants can be successful By Marco Esposito1, Maria Gabriella Grusovin1, follow-up of six months after loading. Yun Shane Chew1, Paul Coulthard1, Helen V Outcome measures were: prosthesis either if placed through the oral Worthington2 failures, implant failures, marginal mucosa, sticking through the gums 1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, bone level changes on intraoral radi- (one-stage procedure) or if com- School of Dentistry, The University of ographs, patient preference including pletely buried under the soft tissues 2 Manchester, Manchester, UK. Cochrane Oral aesthetics, aesthetics evaluated by (two-stage procedure) to heal Health Group, MANDEC, School of Dentistry, dentists, and complications. The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK load-free for a few months. However, Copyright © 2010 The Cochrane Collaboration. Data collection and analysis one additional minor surgical inter- Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Screening of eligible studies, assess- vention is needed, if a two-stage ment of the methodological quality of procedure is used, to allow the con- the trials and data extraction were Abstract nection of the buried implants with conducted in duplicate and independ- the transgingival component, which Background ently by two review authors. Authors will hold the prosthesis in place. Implants may be placed penetrating were contacted for missing informa- the oral mucosa (one-stage procedure) tion. Results were expressed as random- The review found some evidence or can be completely buried under effects models using mean differences from five studies with 239 patients the oral mucosa (two-stage procedure) for continuous outcomes and risk that one- or two-stage implant during the healing phase of the bone ratios for dichotomous outcomes with placement may have similar out- at the implant surface. With a two- 95 percent confidence intervals. comes, though in patients with no teeth trends suggested more implant stage procedure, the risk of having Main results unwanted loading onto the implants failures for those implants sticking Five RCTs were identified and included is minimized, but a second minor through the gum. More research reporting data on 239 patients in total. surgical intervention is needed to is needed to answer this question in On a patient, rather than per implant connect the healing abutments, and a definitive way, but it appears basis, the meta-analyses showed no more time is needed prior to start the possible to place dental implants statistically significant differences for prosthetic phase because of the wound- following a one-stage procedure (i.e. prosthesis and implant failures, though healing period required in relation to the implants are sticking through trends, especially in fully edentulous the second surgical intervention. the gums during the bone healing patients, favored two-stage (submerged) period). The advantages of the one- Objectives implants. stage procedure are: (1) one minor To evaluate whether a one-stage Authors’ conclusions surgical intervention can be avoided, implant placement procedure is as The number of patients included in the and (2) the treatment time can be effective as a two-stage procedure. trials was too small to draw definitive shortened, since it is not needed Search strategy conclusions. The one-stage approach to wait for the healing/stabilization The Cochrane Oral Health Group’s might be preferable in partially edentu- of the soft tissues after the second Trials Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE lous patients since it avoids one surgical surgical intervention. Nevertheless, and EMBASE were searched. intervention and shortens treatment there are situations when a two- Handsearching included several dental times, while a two-stage submerged stage procedure could be preferable, journals. Authors of all identified approach could be indicated when an for instance when a less than optimal trials, an Internet discussion group implant has not obtained an optimal implant stability is achieved at and 55 dental implant manufacturers primary stability, or when barriers are implant placement or when there is were contacted to find unpublished used for guided tissue regeneration, the risk that the provisional denture randomized controlled trials (RCTs). or when it is expected that removable transmits excessive forces to the The last electronic search was conduct- temporary prostheses could transmit portion of the implants sticking ed on January 21, 2009. excessive forces on the penetrating abut- through the gums. ments especially in fully edentulous patients. March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal 27

OK, So I’m Old... Does That Mean That Dental Care is a Waste of Time? By H. Barry Waldman, DDS, MPH, PhD

I’m 75 years old. I’ve lost a few • Among those of us who made a increasing use of dental services by posterior molars over the years. I visit dental visit, if we had private older individuals, which is reflected in my periodontist all too frequently. I’ve insurance coverage, we would have the decrease in the proportion of us begun to have all those physical, averaged $824 in dental expenses with untreated dental caries between psychological, histological, pathologi- in the past year, compared to $535 1988-94 and 1999-2004. Nevertheless, cal and the rest of the “logicals” (I’ve in expenses by those of us with despite these general decreases in the always wondered why they are called public coverage and $528 by those untreated dental caries among older “logical”) changes that older folks of us with no insurance coverage.2 persons, males, blacks, Mexican- experience. Once in a while, I even In 2005, 15 percent of patients of Americans and lower income popula- forget what I was going to pick up on general dental practitioners and almost tions continue to have greater rates of my trip to the grocery store. Fortunately, 10 percent of patients of dental spe- untreated caries than their respective I can still drive at night. But you have cialist were 65 years and older.3 Just in older counterparts. (Table 1) read, studied (and even laughed) about case you think that my contemporaries all those things that we experience if and I skip dental care, (except to Yes, we have problems we are fortunate enough to reach the have our dentures adjusted) in 2004, Of the 35.6 million of us who are older years. 16 million older folks visited a dentist 65 years and older, 40.9 percent According to the Census Bureau, if and received about 74 million (about 14.6 million) have one or more I am an average white male, my life dental procedures. Of those of us who disabilities, including almost 17 1 expectancy is about another 10 years. visited a dentist: percent with sensory disabilities, 31 As far as dentistry is concerned, among • 4 out of 5 had a diagnostic percent with physical disabilities, 12 my contemporaries, in the past year: procedure percent mental disabilities and 17 • Almost half (47 percent) had a percent are unable to go-outside-of- • Three-quarters had preventive care dental visit; 23 percent if we were home because of disabilities.5 Hispanic, 18 percent if we were • One-quarter had restorative And then there is the problem of black, 60 percent if we were a treatment poverty and the impact on spending college graduate and 43 percent if • 30 percent had some prosthetic for needed health services. About 3.5 we had only graduated from high services (yes, some had new million seniors (9.7 percent - with school. dentures fabricated, adjusted and higher rates for minority group • 70 percent of us had no dental repaired – we’ll get back to that seniors) live with incomes below the insurance coverage, including 59 shortly) federal poverty level. (I need not dis- percent of us with higher incomes • 14 percent had oral surgery, and cuss the stock market and the impact on retirement plans.) Yes, we are and 71 percent if we were poor. • 12 percent had a variety of other Among those of us who were poor, aware of the fact that 13.3 million services, including: periodontics, children (18 percent) also live in fami- 18 percent had public dental insur- endodontics, orthodontics ance coverage, primarily Medicaid. lies with incomes below the poverty (you’re never too old for that), level; and probably are increasing as • 65 percent of us had private treatment of TMJ problems, a consequence of the recession.6 insurance, and 16 percent of us bonding, whitening or bleaching with public dental coverage, had a (yes, vanity in old age).2 dental visit in the past year. In general, there has been an

March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal 29 Montana and North Dakota – will have older residents representing more Table 1. than 25 percent of the population.13 Untreated dental caries by the 65 years and over population by Are you and your practice ready selected demographic characteristics: 1988-1994, 1999-20044 for us? Percent References 1988-1994 1999-2004 1 Health United States: 2008. Hyattsville, MD: National Male 31.9% 20.4% Center for Health Statistics, 2008. 2 Department of Health and Human Services. MEPS Female 24.5 16.4 Chartbook No. 17. Medical expenditures panel survey. Washington, DC: Agency for Healthcare Research and Race/ethnicity Quality. 2007. White, non-Hispanic 25.0 15.9 3 Survey Center. 2006 Survey of Dental Practice: characteristic of dentists in private practice and their patients. Black, non-Hispanic 53.9 36.8 Chicago: American Dental Association, 2008. Mexican-American 49.1 41.2 4 Beltan-Agfuilar ED, Barker LK, Canto MT, et al. Surveillance for dental caries, dental sealants, tooth reten- Percent of poverty level tion, edentulism, and enamel fluorosis – United States, Below 100% 46.6 33.2 1998-1994 and 1999-20002. MMRW 2005;54(03):1-44. 5 U.S. Census Bureau. American Fact Finder. Table S1801 100% to less than 200% 37.1 23.8 Disability characteristics: 2005-2007. American 200% or more 21.1 14.2 Commiunity Survey. Website: http://factfinder.census.gov Accessed March 24, 2009. 6 DeNavas-Walt, C, Proctor BD, Smith, JC. U.S. Census Bureau, Current Population Reports, P60-235, Income, Poverty, and Health Insurance Coverage in the United As far as dentures are concerned It ain’t over ‘til it’s over States: 2007. Web site: http://www.census.gov/prod/ 2008pubs/p60-235.pdf Accessed April 14, 2009. Yes, there has been a decline in While my average life expectancy 7 Douglass CW, Shih A, Ostry L. Will there be a need for complete dentures in the United States in 2020? edentulism. However, “the 10 percent is 10 more years, (about 13 years if I J Prosthet Dent 2002;87:5-8. decline in edentulism experienced were a woman), the number of indi- 8 Waldman HB, Perlman SP, Xu L. Should the teaching of full denture prosthetics be maintained in schools of den- each decade for the past 30 years will viduals 100 years and older increased tistry? J Dent Educ 2007;71:463-466. be more than offset by the 79 percent from 37,000 in 1990 to 50,000 in 9 Alfano MC. Hedge our bet or trim our hedge: the need increase in the adult population older 2000 (with estimates of 55,000 in to reform the dental education process. Global Health News, NYU College of Dentistry, Fall 2004. Web site: 7 than 55 years…” As a result, “…only 2005). 80 percent of them are women. http://www.nyu.edu/dental/nexus/issues/fall2004/hedge general practitioners in concert with In addition, for every 100,000 chil- .html Accessed July 28, 2006. 10 U.S. Census Bureau. Interim population projections, prosthodontists, can meet the full dren born in 2004, more than 2,500 2005. Web site: http://www.census.gov/population/www/ denture requirements in 2020.” 8 By are projected to live 100-plus years. projections/projectionsagesex.htm Accessed November 5, 2007. contrast, there is the comment that, More than four million children were 11 Arias E. United States life tables, 2004. National Vital “…full denture construction will likely born in 2004. Thus, for this single Statistics Report. 2006; 56(9):3. Web site: http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/nvsr/nvsr56/nvsr56_09.pd become so rare that the dentures year, more than 10,000 may reach the f Accessed January 24, 2008. 10,11 required by the public could be han- century mark and beyond. 12 Rees M. Before the beginning: our universe and others. dled by specialists…” 9 My contemporaries and I may be Reading, MA: Addison-Wesley, 1997. Pg 115. 13 U.S. Census Bureau. Interim projections: ranking of The reality is that all the traditional old and still trying to come to terms states by projected percent of population age 65 and older: emphasis on edentulism, dentures and with the fact that, “in less than a sec- 2000, 2010 and 2030. Web site: http://www.census.gov/ population/projections/PressTab3.xls Accessed April 14, the elderly overshadows the full range ond, a computer can surpass ten 2009. of services that are now available and thousand lifetimes of human calcula- About The Author sought after by my contemporaries; tions.”12 But dental care is still a part ranging from bleaching to implants, of our needed health care and in the Dr. Waldman is a Distinguished Teaching endodontics and just about any proce- not too distant future (within about Professor in the Department of General dures that general and specialty prac- two decades), we will represent Dentistry at Stony Brook University in titioners have in their armamentarium 20 percent of the population in this New York. He can be reached at to maintain and prolong the dentition. country. Six states – Florida (naturally), [email protected] It’s just that… Maine, Wyoming, New Mexico,

30 March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal Awards & Achievements

Saccone Honored by Pierre Fauchard Academy

Dr. Nicholas D. Saccone of Scranton, a former president president of the Alumni Society of the University of of PDA, has received the Pierre Fauchard Academy’s Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. Presidential Award of Excellence. Throughout his dental career, Dr. Saccone was awarded The Pierre Fauchard Academy is an international dental four fellowships: Pierre Fauchard, where he was President; honor society with a presence in 50 countries. Dr. Saccone International College of Dentists, where he held the office served as its president during 1995-1996. of Regent; American College of Dentists; and the Academy The award reads: “In recognition for your outstanding of General Dentistry. dedication and commitment to the profession of dentistry. Other awards and recognition throughout Dr. Saccone’s We salute you for your many contributions and devotions career include: a gold medal from the French Dental to uphold the finest traditions of our profession.” Association, “Le Medaille d’Or de Conseil National); PDA’s Dr. Saccone practiced dentistry in Scranton for 51 years, “Annual Award” (now Distinguished Service Award); and prior to his term as PDA president in 1983-84, he Greater Philadelphia Guild of St. Apollonia “Dentist of the served as president of Third District Dental Society and Year,” the Catholic Youth Center’s “Wall of Fame” and the Scranton District Dental Society. He has also served as Purple Club Outstanding Service Award.

How PDA Works for You: Monthly News Releases

To increase the visibility of the dental profession and help disseminate important dental health information to the public, PDA staff, with the input and oversight of members of our Council on Communications and Public Relations (CCPR), writes and distributes monthly news releases to more than 450 Pennsylvania media outlets. Covering a wide variety of dental health topics, the releases reach both daily and non-daily newspapers, magazines, radio and TV stations and websites. Topics have included tips for finding a dentist, root canals, safe tooth whitening, smokeless tobacco, the effects of sugary beverages, oral health’s link to overall health, overcoming dental anxiety and many more. Our news releases also bring awareness to National Children’s Dental Health Month (NCDHM) every February. Twice each year, news releases feature our annual poster contest in which all Pennsylvania third-grade students are eligible to participate. News releases benefit members because they often contain information highlighting additions to PDA’s website, www.padental.org, and legislative updates. For example, a news release was recently published about our new online Kids’ Corner, www.padental.org/kidscorner, which provides kids with a wealth of oral health information through interactive games and activities. Also, when the ADA published new antibiotic prophylaxis guidelines, PDA was quick to respond with a news release outlining the updates. Watch for our monthly news releases in your local publications. If you have any questions or topic suggestions, please contact Rachel Damrauer, communications coordinator, at (800) 223-0016, ext. 133, or [email protected].

March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal 31 In Memoriam

Dr. Frank R. Cafaro Pittsburgh Dr. Herman M. Aqua University of Pittsburgh (1952) On January 18, the Pennsylvania Dental Born: 3/8/28 Association lost a great leader. Dr. Herman Died: 12/13/09 Aqua passed on after a lengthy illness. Dr. John G. Steciw Dr. Aqua, who was PDA president in Bethlehem 1990-1991, served dentistry with steadfast Temple University (1973) determination and dedication. He was a Born: 6/13/47 role model for many and exemplified the Died: 12/20/09 highest ideals, ethics and professionalism. He came from a very humble background Dr. Charles W. Apple and appreciated what blessings he had. Franconia He and his beloved wife Ruth gave more Temple University (1942) to our dental organizations than we could Born: 7/1/15 ever repay, and we are all the better for it. Died: 1/3/10 He became president of the Luzerne County Dental Society in 1964. His local colleagues praised his ability to always keep things running Dr. Herman M. Aqua smoothly. Herm became president of the Third District Dental Society Forty Fort in 1978, and then served as PDA’s Third District Trustee from 1982 to University of Pittsburgh (1952) 1988 before his term as PDA president. This organization honored Born: 3/31/27 him with its highest honor, the Annual Award (now the Distinguished Died: 1/17/10 Service Award) in 1999. Herm dedicated his life not only to the advancement of dentistry; Dr. Richard M. Madore he was also a loving father and donated his time and leadership abilities State College to many civic organizations and his synagogue Ahavas Achim. Temple University (1986) I remember a quote from John Wesley, which I think makes an Born: 3/7/58 attempt of summing up Herm’s lifelong accomplishments. Died: 1/18/10

Do all the good you can Dr. Nevin C.T. Shaffer In all the ways you can Allentown In all the places you can University of Pennsylvania (1951) At all the times you can Born: 3/22/18 To all the people you can Died: 1/20/10 As long as ever you can This was Herm Aqua. Gone, but not forgotten. Dr. Richard C. Zahm Bethlehem Herm is survived by wife, Ruth; children, Harold, Karen, Marlene Temple University (1959) and Ellen; seven grandchildren; nieces and nephews. Born: 5/23/33 — Dr. Richard Grossman Died: 2/1/10

Memorial Contributions, if desired, may be made to Ahavas Achim Synagogue, c/o Dr. Richard Grossman, 375 Stanley Dr., Kingston, PA 18704, or charity of donor’s choice.

32 March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal It’s Your Money

Technical Analysis sections: www.stockcharts.com and The green line on the chart going By Mark J. Funt, DMD, MBA www.clearstation.com. from left to right and trending Let’s look at an example of how you downward is the 200-day moving So far, I have discussed fundamental can use technical analysis. Get your average and the red line, which starts analysis when it comes to researching pencil and rulers ready because this is at the left side of the chart at about your stocks. Now I will touch on going to be interactive. I am using a $22 and curves downward and technical analysis. I was never a fan of six-month chart of Health Care then upward as it moves from left to technical analysis until several years Properties (HCP). HCP is a health care right, is the 20-day moving average. ago, and since that time I find it to be real estate investment trust that owns But more about that later. an invaluable part of buying and nursing homes, medical buildings The vertical lines at the bottom of selling stocks. Where fundamental and other things. The first thing you the chart represent the daily volume – analysis is a qualitative approach, need to know is that this is a daily that is how many shares were traded technical analysis is completely quan- titative. True technicians feel they don’t even need to know what the company does, let alone its’ financials. As a matter of fact, technicians feel that companies can and do “cook the books.” Enron and MCI WorldCom anyone? They believe that charts tell the truth. In reality you should use all techniques available. It is often said that fundamental analysis is used to determine what stock to buy and technical analysis is used to determine when to buy or sell that stock. Technicians look at a myriad of Reproduced with permission of Yahoo! Inc. ©2009 Yahoo! Inc. YAHOO! and the YAHOO! logo are registered trademarks of Yahoo! Inc. technical indicators. As a matter of fact, there are probably at least 50 technical indicators and patterns. They have chart. Each point along the line repre- that day. names like Bollinger Bands, Fibonacci sents the closing price of the stock at The first thing you want to do Retracing, stochastics, MACD, flags, the end of each day. You can get when looking at a chart is look at the pennants, cup and handle and head weekly, monthly, hourly and even trend of the stock. Is it trending up, and shoulders just to name a few. 15-minute charts if you are a day down or sideways? If you look at the Most people agree that the three most trader. The charts can be linear, bar month of March (the very left of the important and easiest to use indicators or candlesticks. Linear charts are chart) you will notice that the stock are price, price trends and volume. probably the easiest to use, especially trades between $20 and approximately I will also discuss moving averages, if you are just starting out. Bar charts $16.50 per share. Take your ruler and support and resistance. Technicians give you more information such as draw a line connecting the points at basically believe it is insider informa- the lowest, highest and closing price the top of the chart ($20) and the tion that moves the price of a stock of the day. Candlestick charts are the bottom of the chart (16.50). Extend and when this information gets out to most sophisticated charting method your lines to the right beyond April 9. the public, the price of the stock but are also the most complicated to The first thing you will see is that moves. If you have a real interest in use. If you are going to be a true every time the stock hits $20, the technical analysis, there are two technician, understanding candlesticks sellers come in and push the price of websites that have great educational is essential. (continued on page 34)

March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal 33 It’s Your Money the stock down. The stock hits resist- before resuming another short uptrend nicians is that around August 1, the ance at $20. Every time the stock hits to June 16. (One could make the case 20-day MA crosses over the 200-day $16.50 per share the buyers come in that on a longer term basis the stock MA. This is a very significant bullish and push the price up – this is called was in an uptrend from April 9-June indicator. The reverse is true as well. support. 16) If you drew a line on the top part Finally, and very importantly, is vol- Resistance represents a ceiling and of the chart from June 16 to July 1, ume. The volume is confirmation of a support represents a floor. When a you would have a down trending line bullish or bearish move in the stock. stock trades between resistance and and a stock that is falling in price When the stock breaks resistance, you support, the stock is trading within a where the stock is closing at lower want it to break out on very high vol- range or a channel. Normally when a highs and lower lows. When the stock ume and the opposite is true as well. stock trades within a range or breaks above that trend line that may Unfortunately, HCP volume doesn’t consolidates, it will eventually make a be the time to buy, and that certainly really confirm up or down moves on move either up or down. In this case was the case with HCP as it shot up high volume. As a matter of fact, many the stock broke resistance on or to $30. technicians would not be convinced about April 14 and shot up to about The next thing to look at is moving by this stock’s move because of its $22.50 per share, where once again it averages. moves on rather low volume. When a went into a long range of consolida- A simple 20-day moving average stock moves higher or lower on heavy tion to approximately June 16 when it (MA) takes the closing price of the volume, it is telling you that institu- broke its uptrend at about $23. stock over a 20-day period and then tions like mutual funds and the The stock fell in price and went as low averages the number to get a point. Goldman Sacks of the world may know as $20 between July 1 and July 15 On day 21, the closing price of day 1 something us retail investors do not when it resumed its upward trend to is dropped and the closing price of know. Volume spikes on the graph are close at $30 per share around the end day 21 is added and averaged to get a quick and easy way to see that. You of August. In many cases, old resistance point number 2. The 20-day moving can also compare the 30-day average will become new support and HCP average represents 20 trading days or volume with the daily volume. demonstrates this concept beautifully. roughly one month and the 200 day A good way to practice is print out It met resistance in March and early MA represents 40 weeks or close to a chart and then cover it with a piece April at $20, which then became new one year. Many institutions base their of paper. Then move your paper from support from mid-June to mid July buying and selling on how the stock left to right and see how you would before resuming its uptrend. trades relative to its moving average. trade the stock given the information Pick up your pencil and ruler and HCP has a very interesting relationship you have. Continue to move the paper draw a line at the bottom of the chart with the 20-day MA in that as long to the right and see how the stock did from approximately April 9 to May 16 as it stays above the 20-day, the stock according to your prediction. and you will find a line that trends up is in a nice uptrend. In many cases, Like anything else in investing, and a stock that closed at higher highs it will actually find support at the 20 nothing is 100 percent and even in the and higher lows. This is a great up day and bounce off it and move up. best of circumstances technical trending stock and the trend is your Around July 9, the 20-day actually analysis can fool you. However, it is friend. Once the stock breaks beneath acted as resistance to the stock. The another tool you can use if you want that up trending line on or about May 200-day moving average is way above to become a serious stock investor. 16, that may be a signal to sell. The the stock price until the end of July, reverse is also true. HCP does decrease when it broke through it at around in price for a short period of time $23. More importantly for many tech-

34 March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal On the Lighter Side

The following article appeared in the restoration, but knows the concerns Jan/Feb/Mar 2010 issue of The Journal with composites? Is the best dentist of the Philadelphia County Dental the most skillful communicator or the Society. It is reprinted here with most masterful in technical prowess? permission. Dr. Miller is the editor of I can refer patients to the “top” the Philadelphia County Dental Society. dentist in the city, and there is a reasonable chance they may be back Top This (if they are not angry at me) for any Saul N. Miller, DDS number of valid, personal or even goofy reasons. Dentistry, like love, is Thanksgiving 2009 is over. The about nurturing, involving patients, December holidays have come and staff and self, and proposing and gone, and we must wait another 12 performing appropriate treatment, months for the next joyous celebration while considering age, finances, of Festivus. I have just recovered from tolerances and dental IQ, along with not being selected one of Philadelphia everything else. The top dentist for Magazine’s Power Fifty, and the one person may be the bottom for January and February Presidents’ another. So the question remains, holidays are just around the corner. “the best what, how, why, for More importantly, my friends, the whom and when?” February edition of Philadelphia I mention advertising execs Magazine will soon be here, and we because we must not forget that ad will finally know who among us is revenue is a publication’s ultimate at the TOP, the apex, the pinnacle of reward, source of profit and raison our profession in the region. betcha.” Hey, we made it through d’etre, and in today’s climate of internet Of course, now I have to deal with many years of school, we could surely publishing, it is vital that a print the reality that I may not be one of solve this problem. Obviously, I fig- publication stays on top of its game. the chosen ones; however, I must state ured it out also; however, aside from It seems that Philadelphia Magazine is that I have it on the highest authority, the lack of fairness in creating a doing just that. In a letter from the or very close to it, that I am, in fact, campaign to be the top dentist, it then magazine, dated November 9, 2009, one of the area’s top/best dentists. You would have been disingenuous to I was offered “an array of customizable can ask Sister Annuntia, Sister Barbara write this column, and as you know I opportunities, in print and online, and, of course, my assistant Ms. Rita, have a responsibility to you, my loyal to ensure that your practice receives who sees it all. End of Story!! Forget readers, and to truth, justice and Rita. the exposure you’re looking for—year the poll, the voting for the top three The question must be asked, “The round.” Interestingly, although it was choices, or who your best friends are top, the highest point in reference to also noted that the debut Top Dentist and how many you have. Yes, the top what?”; and it is likely that Philadelphia issue would be a great place to dentist could have been selected if a Magazine, its editors and advertising advertise, there was no mention marketing campaign were put into executives are using the terms “top” that having a “top” recognition of any place whereby specialists, for example, and “best” synonymously. Is the kind was a prerequisite. Then, on request votes for (or from) a particular question who has the most modern November 17, 2009, Ian from the person (or persons) in a category equipment, the fanciest office, the magazine called my office to thank other than theirs. Would someone biggest or smallest laser, the highest me for completing the survey (which actually think of such a thing? In the production, the largest or best looking I did not), to inform me that the words of a former candidate for Vice staff, the latest cad unit, or maybe President of the United States, “You who refuses to place an amalgam (continued on page 36)

March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal 35 On the Lighter Side magazine was creating a database of Philadelphia’s top dentists, and most importantly to sell advertising. I explained to him that the database was of all Philadelphia dentists (top and Observations bottom) and that I would have By Dr. Alex J. McKechnie completed the survey had I been able to return to the survey page after A recent article, “Tips for Any Age,” lists 40 ways to improve your making just a couple entries. I then health in 2010. No. 8 was “Keep Up the Dental Care – cleaning routines advised Ian that I had to get back to and maintenance dental work are not flashy, exciting or glamorous – my patient; otherwise, if I were to be it’s all about brushing, flossing and maybe a fluoride rinse. Do it twice selected Top Dog, this patient might daily for 75 years. Schedule a kid’s first professional dental appointment question whether I was truly worthy around the age of 2 or 3.” of the honor. As my good buddy and Want to live to 100? A recent New England study found that most riding partner asks, “How does one centenarians share the following characteristics: (1) emotional convince the dental patient population resilience (2) self-sufficiency (3) intellectual activity (4) a good sense of that the skill of a dentist is not humor (5) religious beliefs (6) strong connections with other people measured by an advertising driven (7) low blood pressure (8) a zest for life (9) don’t currently smoke or magazine, even if they have an advi- drink heavily (10) may play musical instruments (11) follow an sory board?” anti-inflammatory diet. Of interest is that 80 percent of all Americans Of course, congratulations to the over age 100 are women. Philadelphia Magazine Top Dentists. I just hope they can pass the Sister Hard to believe, but a movie titled “Tooth Fairy” is now showing in Annuntia, Sister Barbara and Rita theaters. It stars a former wrestler known as “The Rock” and Julie Zeitone evaluations. Lastly, and most Andrews as his kind boss, “the queen of all the tooth fairies.” importantly, congratulations to the An excuse? A cartoon recently depicted an elderly lady telling her dentists who continually strive for physician that the metal fillings in her teeth are pulled by the refrigerator excellence in their lives, their fragments to her kitchen thus, she cannot lose weight. profession and their practices. They are the BEST. Is this a Dentist’s Proverb? 12:14 states “a man shall be satisfied with good by the fruit of his mouth: and the recompense of a man’s hands (Author’s note: I always look forward shall be rendered unto him. to receiving and reading Philadelphia Magazine. Also, Philly Mag may want to note the number of mentions and free advertising in this column.)

36 March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal Continuing Education

University of Pittsburgh May 7 October 14 Contact: Lori Burkette When the Unexpected Happens Pediatric Dentistry Made Easy for the Administrative Secretary Are You Ready? General Practitioner (412) 648-8370 Jane Segal, DMD Dr. R. Glenn Rosivack

May 7 Butler On-Campus Programs The Oral Surgery Experience: March 19 Tips, Techniques and Planning April 15 Implant Considerations in James Tauberg, DMD Achieving Excellence in Treating and Counseling the Oral Oncology Patient Endodontic Therapy: When to Hold May 13-14, 2010 (Part 1) Sandra Boody, CDA, RDH, MEd and When to Fold June 10-11, 2010 (Part 2) George Just, DDS, J.D. Local Anesthetics for the Dental Erie March 26 Hygienist Periodontal Accessories Sean Boynes, DMD March 17 Othman Shibly, DDS, MS Paul Moore, DMD, PhD, MPH An Overview of Oral Pathology Dr. Bobby Collins March 27 May 22 Surgical Crown Elongation - Bowser Memorial Lecture: April 14 Hands On/Limited Attendance Virtues of Profitable Dentistry Shift Happens! New Directions with Ali Seyedain, DMD, MDS Howard Farran, DDS, MBA, MAGD Adhesive Restorative Materials Pouran Famili, DMD, MDS, MPH, PhD Dr. Howard E. Strassler Off-Campus Programs April 9 Greensburg New Products and Procedures Altoona April 9 That Make Sense April 8 Shift Happens! New Directions with Donald E. Antonson, DDS, M.Ed Creating Smiles with the Latest Adhesive Restorative Materials Generation of Esthetic Techniques April 16 Dr. Howard E. Strassler Dental Photography: Shooting Digital and Materials Ali Seyedain, DMD, MDS Dr. Luis Sensi Johnstown April 17 Bradford March 25 How to Optimize the Results with Current Issues in Health and Disease March 24 Photoshop - Limited Attendance Dr. Kenneth Etzel Heiko Spallek, DMD, PhD Cad/Cam in Your Office Dr. Kevin Pawlowicz April 28 April 24 Periodontics 2010: Pearls for the April 22 Dental Implants: What I Have General Practice Oral Mucosal Disease: An Update Learned in 25 Years! Dr. Francis Serio Steve J. Kukunas, DMD Dr. Scott S. DeRossi October 13 September 23 May 1 Updates in Pediatric Dentistry: Immediate Load Implant Retained Radiology Review for the Dental Treating Tiny Tots to Teens Overdentures Utilizing Mini and Assistant Dr. Lance Kisby Judith E. Gallagher, RDH, Med Small Diameter Implants Dr. Joseph P. Buttacavoli (continued on page 38)

March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal 37 Continuing Education

November 18 Steubenville, Ohio April 9 The Restorative Edge A Complete Guide to Predictable and Dr. James Braun March 25 Profitable Anterior and Posterior Tricky Decisions and Treatment Esthetic Restorations (Hands-On) Pittsburgh (VAMC) Techniques in Pediatrics Marvin Fier, DDS, FASDA Dr. Jane A. Soxman April 14 April 16 An Overview of Oral Pathology April 29 The Immediate Placement of Dr. Bobby Collins Periodontics 2010: Endosseous Dental Implants in Fresh Pearls for the General Practice May 5 Extraction Sites Dr. Francis G. Serio Updates in Pediatric Dentistry: Michael Peleg, DMD Treating Tiny Tots to Teens Titusville April 28 Dr. Lance Kisby March 24 Hypnosis and Treatment of Anxious Pottsville Medical Emergencies in the Patients Dental Office Marc Gottlieb, DDS April 8 Dr. Michael Cuddy Drugs, Herbals, Nutraceuticals: June 17-27 New Issues for Dentistry April 21 10 Day Cruise N Learn to Ireland Dr. Richard Wynn Techniques and Advances in Practical Clinical Oral Pathology Jim Drummond, DDS, MSD, PhD Reading Forensic Dentistry Dr. Michael N. Sobel June 26 April 9 st Williamsport 1 Annual Smile Symposium Drugs, Herbals, Nutraceuticals: The Impact of the Teeth and Smile New Issues for Dentistry April 21 on Facial Esthetics Dr. Richard Wynn Oral Mucosal Disease: An Update Program Director: Dr. Scott S. DeRossi May 14 Dr. Joseph R. Greenberg What’s Hot and What’s Getting Hotter Keynote Speaker: Dr. Howard Glazer Temple University Dr. Ronald Goldstein with Drs. Ackerman, Greco, Chu and September 10 Contact: Dr. Ronald D. Bushick Greenberg Porcelain Veneers: The Prep vs. No- or Nicole Carreno Prep Controversy…The Whole Story! (215) 707-7541/7006 September 15 Dr. Steven Weinberg (215) 707-7107 (Fax) Ultrasonics: Evidence Based Approach Register at to Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy October 15 www.temple.edu/dentistry/conted.htm Miracles and Myths of Direct Assessing Aesthetic Options for Non- Composite Restorations March 19 Surgical Periodontal Therapy Dr. Mark Latta Ethics in Dentistry-Ethical Principles Gail Malone, RDH, BS and Code of Professional Conduct Scranton September 24 Ethical Dilemmas in Practice- The Million Dollar PLUS Blue April 7 Malpractice, Licensure and Risk Collar Practice Tricky Decisions and Treatment Management Craig Callen, DDS Techniques in Pediatrics Lillian Obucina, DDS, JD Dr. Jane A. Soxman October 22 March 26 Update in Restorative Dentistry Updates in Pediatric Dentistry: Lou Graham, DDS Treating Tiny Tots to Teens Lance Kisby, DMD, FASCD, FAGD, FAAPD

38 March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal Continuing Education

October 29 University of Pennsylvania April 17 New Approaches for Clinical Contact: Susan Conroy Enhancing The Esthetics and Anti-Infective Periodontal Therapy (215) 573-9098 or log on to Function of Ceramic Restorations Thomas Rams, DDS www.dental.upenn.edu/cde (Limited to 30 – REGISTER EARLY!) Alan Atlas, DMD November 5 March 20 Najeed Saleh, DMD Exquisite Complete and Implant Tooth and Consequences Retained Over-Dentures Calibrated Gail E. Yarnell, DMD, JD May 8 for the General Practitioner The Latest in Dental Technology: Joseph Massad, DDS March 27 Learn from the Master Enamel Therapy: Michael Bergler, MDT November 19 The Next Generation of Care (AM) Empowering the Dental Team to Maria Perno Goldie, RDH, BA, MS May 22 Deliver “Quality” Periodontal Care in Pharmacology Primer: Restorative Practice March 27 Dose Response Relations and Samuel B. Low, DDS, MS, Med Evidence-Based Decision Making for Adverse Drug Interactions Oral and Systemic Health (PM) Elliot V. Hersh DMD, MS, PhD December 3 Maria Perno Goldie, RDH, BA, MS The Art and Science of CAMBRA: A team approach using chemical April 10 treatments and minimally invasive Restoring Dental Implants: A General dentistry Dentist’s Guide (UPDATED for 2010!) Douglas Young, DDS, MS, MBA Daniel Kubikian, DMD

March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal 39 Continuing Education

Greensburg Brookville Wellsboro Giannilli’s II Restaurant & Banquet Educational Conference Center in Educational Conference Center in Facility, Greensburg Brookville Hospital Annex Pennsylvania College of Technology Contact : Rebecca Von Nieda, PDA Contact: Rebecca Von Nieda, PDA Contact: Rebecca Von Nieda, PDA (800) 223-0016, ext. 117 (800) 223-0016, ext. 117 (800) 223-0016, ext. 117 March 19 March 26 April 30 The Restorative Edge An Approach to Medically Complex Practical, Predictable Prosthodontics James Braun DDS, MS Patients and Medical Risk Assessment Nels Ewoldsen DDS, MSD Scott S. De Rossi, DMD April 16 September 24 Getting to the Heart of the Matter – St. Mary’s Overviews of Contemporary Periodontal Disease and its Effect on Management of Facial Trauma, Educational Conference Center in Heart Disease and Diabetes Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Snoring Gunners Inn and Restaurant, St. Marys Joel Weintraub, MEd, BS David C. Stanton, DMD, MD, FACS Contact: Rebecca Von Nieda, PDA May 14 (800) 223-0016, ext. 117 October 29 Updates in Pediatric Dentistry: It’s About Time!... May 21 Treating Tiny Tots to Teens Early Oral Cancer Detection A Simple Path to Excellent Lance E. Kisby, DMD Jonathan Bregman, DDS Endodontics Michael J. Ribera, DMD, MS PDA and PDAIS Gettysburg Wyndham Gettysburg Contact: Rebecca Von Nieda, PDA (800) 223-0016, ext. 117 June 11 Current Concepts for Managing Dental Trauma and Preventing Sports- Related Dental Injuries Dennis N. Ranalli, DDS, MDS Seventh District Dental Society The Penn Stater Conference Center Hotel, State College Contact: Dr. David Schimmel (814) 234-8527 [email protected] April 9 Open Your Door to the New Periodontics Tim Donley, DDS May 14 Ergonomics, Efficiency and Economics: Maximizing Comfort and Productivity for the Dental Team Mary Govini, CDA, RDH, MBA Seventh District Annual Meeting

40 March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal Continuing Education

Dental Society of Chester Beaver Valley Dental Society Philadelphia County County and Delaware County Contact: Dr. David C. Spokane Dental Society DKU Continuing Dental Education [email protected] 2009 – 2010 Liberty Continuing Springfield Country Club Education Series March 18 Delaware County Philadelphia Hilton City An Overview of Anterior Esthetics Contact: Dr. Barry Cohen Avenue Hotel Dr. Ed Narcisi (610) 449-7002 Contact: Teresa F. Ravert, [email protected] April 15 Executive Director Oral Pathology: An Update for the (215) 925-6050 April 14 General Practitioner Fax (215) 925-6998 Esthetic Integration of Digital- Dr. Mike Ban e-mail: [email protected] or visit Ceramic Restorations on Implants the website at www.philcodent.org and Natural Teeth May 20 Bernard Touati, DDS Updates in Prosthodontics April 30 Dr. George Hadeed Restoration of Implants May 19 Dr. Paul Goodman The Art of Dental Therapeutics: Dental Drugs and Over-the-Counter May 21 Dental Products Techniques & Materials for Fixed Peter Jacobsen, PhD, DDS Prosthodontics Dr. Alan A. Boghosian

March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal 41

Classified Advertisements

Dentist Wanted Rates: $45 for 45 words or less, $1 for each additional word. $1 for each word set in boldface Dentist needed full time by May 2010. (other than first four words). $10 to box an ad. $5 for PDA Box number reply. One free ad to deceased member’s spouse. A multi-specialty practice located in Website: All Journal classified ads will be posted on the public section of the PDA website, unless Slippery Rock, PA. Hours 9-5, M-F. otherwise requested. Ads will be posted within 48 hours of receipt, but no earlier than one Attractive salary package. Possible month prior to the date of the Journal issue. Ads will be removed at the end of the two months buy-in available. For information, call of the Journal issue. (724) 794-2224. Deadlines: Jan/Feb Issue — Deadline: Nov 1 • Mar/Apr Issue — Deadline: Jan 1 • May/Jun Issue — Deadline: Mar 1 • Jul/Aug Issue — Deadline: May 1 • Sept/Oct Issue — Deadline: Jul 1 • Associate Dentist Nov/Dec Issue — Deadline: Sept 1 Dental Dreams desires a motivated, Payment: Upon submitting ad. quality oriented Associate Dentist for Mailing Address: Send ad copy and box responses to: PDA Dental Journal • PO Box 3341 • Harrisburg, PA 17105 its offices in Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Classified Advertising Policy: The Pennsylvania Dental Association is unable to investigate the Massachusetts, Illinois and Texas. At offers made in Classifieds and, therefore, does not assume any responsibility concerning them. The Dental Dreams, we focus on providing Association reserves the right to decline to accept or withdraw advertisements in the Classifieds. the entire family superior quality The Journal reserves the right to edit classified ad copy. general dentistry, in a modern How to reply to a PDA Box Number: technologically advanced setting with Your Name & Address Here experienced support staff. Because we

Pennsylvania Dental Journal understand the tremendous value of PO Box 3341 Harrisburg, PA 17105 our Associate Dentists, we make sure

Attn: Box M/A____ that their compensation package ranks among the best in the industry. Our average colleague Dentist earns $240,000 per annum, and is supported OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE POSITION AVAILABLE with health insurance, 3 weeks Harrisburg applicant must be proficient vacation and malpractice insurance. Outstanding Career Opportunities in all chairside phases of fabricating In Pennsylvania, providing ongoing Visa sponsorship assistance is available. dentures. This position is ideal for For more information, please call professional development, financial a retired dentist wishing to work part advancement and more. Positions also Chyrisse Patterson at (312) 274-0308, time. Salary negotiable. Respond to extension 320 or e-mail your CV to available in FL, GA, IN, MI, VA and PDA Box M/A 1. MD. For more information contact [email protected]. Jeff Dreels at (941) 955-3150, fax CV Associate Needed Allentown/Lehigh Valley Area to (941) 330-1731 or e-mail dreel- Do you aspire to be a partner in a GENERAL DENTIST needed. Group [email protected]. Visit our growing group practice? Do you have practice is seeking a general dentist website: www.Dentalcarealliance.com. management abilities? Then you may for full-time or part-time employment. be the kind of associate we are seeking. Salary commensurate with experience. Lancaster Group Practice Our group is located in the Central Associateship or Associate to Partnership Associate position available with part- Susquehanna Valley near Bucknell nership potential. Beautiful Allentown in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Large group and Susquehanna Universities. We are dental practice. Income potential of area location with general dentists seeking a general dentist capable of and specialists under one roof. Fax $100,000 to $200,000 plus. Must be a wide range of procedures. No HMO’s a multi-skilled, excellent dentist. This resume and cover letter to (610) 820- Medical assistance is optional. Want 9922 or call (610) 820-9900. may be one of the best dental prac- to know more? Call (570) 742-9607, tices in the state! Call (717) 394-9231 e-mail [email protected], or fax (continued on page 44) or e-mail [email protected]. your resume to (570) 742-9638.

March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal 43 Classified Advertisements

Pedodontist Wanted community two hours from major gorgeous Victorian mansion, which Practice in Stamford, CT. seeking a cities. Reply: Practice Manager, P.O. also contains 3 apartments. Real estate caring committed professional to join Box 20103, Scranton, PA 18501. is available for sale or lease. Serious our team. State of the art facility, all inquiries only. Contact Dan Slain LONG-TERM CAREER digital and a history of continuous at Henry Schein Professional Practice OPPORTUNITY growth. Fairfield County CT, just an Transitions at (412) 855-0337 or Thriving 5-doctor group practice in hour from New York City. Equity pos- (800) 730-8883. Chambersburg seeks to add an sible. www.DentalCareStamford.com. outstanding associate dentist to our Central Dauphin County Reply to [email protected]. group. Beautiful new office facility Harrisburg suburbs, great location, all Dentist Wanted and wonderful staff. Excellent com- phases of dentistry. 1,200 active patients, Dentist - part time. What unique skills pensation and benefits. Fee-for-service mostly FFS. Great pre-tax cash flow can you bring to our practice? Fax practice, no HMOs. See our website and tax benefits. Real estate available. resume to (215) 396-9517 or e-mail at www.chambersburgdentistry.com. Contact [email protected]. resume to [email protected]. Contact Dr. Pastor at PASTOR7@ East Central Pennsylvania comcast.net or (717) 264-2011. Scranton 2,100 active patients, 6 fully Busy Scranton dental office looking Office Space Available equipped treatment rooms, collections for partner/business associate. Fax Share space and equipment with a of $400,000. Two busy full time resume to (570) 343-3850 or call general dentist located in Lewisburg. hygienists. Excellent growth potential (570) 347-2920. Five operatories fully equipped includ- and tremendous value. College town. ing Casey and Digital Radiography. Contact [email protected]. Philadelphia Separate reception and storage areas. Busy dental offices looking for Ortho Practice Off-street parking. Please call (570) dentists FT/PT to provide dental care Harrisburg area, computerized, 523-3991 if interested. for Northeast and South Philadelphia. 2009 collections exceed $1.2 million. Efficiency in molar endo, extractions, FOR SALE Seller willing to stay on as desired crowns and bridgework is a must. by purchaser. Excellent possibilities Compensation to potential 200K+. Lackawanna County for this transition whether you are a Fax resume to (215) 331-7589 or call Well-established family practice in seasoned provider or new out of resi- (215) 331-7585. Lackawanna County. 4 ops, great staff, dency. Real estate available. Contact low overhead plus real estate. This [email protected]. office shows very well. Please contact Harrisburg West Shore Medical Professsionals Sharon Mascetti at Henry Schein A tremendous opportunity to purchase PrimeCare Medical is seeking a Professional Practice Transitions (484) a small practice with a large number full-time dentist with excellent 788-4071 or (800) 730-8883. salary and benefits working in a of active patients and turn it into challenging correctional Northeast of Pittsburgh a very high producing practice. Great environment. Travel is required Fee-for-Service Practice (only partici- cash flow, tax benefits, and return on throughout the Central PA area. pates with Delta Dental Insurance). investment. Excellent facility and Contact HR at (800) 245-7277 or Located 75 miles northeast of equipment. All the right ingredients fax resume to (717) 651-1865. Pittsburgh. Practice collects $1,200,000 for success. Real estate available also. EOE. REF #600. per year on 3 1/2 days per week Contact [email protected]. (28 hours). Practice sees 25 to 30 new Montgomery County patients per month. Practice offers Montgomery County - 7 ops, 1,500 Oral/IV Sedation (PA Permit 1); General Dentist Wanted active pts., 32 hrs/wk., leased 1,600 s/f advanced restorative and cosmetics. Pennsylvania dental practice seeks full- in free standing bldg., Strong hyg. Rev. Doctor does own endo, surgery and time dentist. Excellent salary/fringe $617k. Call Donna (800) 988-5674. most implants. Dentist is willing to benefits to include malpractice. Modern mentor new buyer (if so desires) for working environment. Family oriented up to 2 years. Practice is housed in a

44 March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal Classified Advertisements

PRACTICE FOR SALE - Dental Practice For Sale - Practice FOR SALE DUTCHESS CTY for Sale – Northwestern PA Small town dental practice and real Wonderful, 4 op, digital, general General – Wonderful community. 5 ops estate in Lancaster County. First floor practice with 2,000 active patients. Rev with room for expansion. Rev $541K. with three operatories. Employee $825K. Call Donna (800) 988-5674. Call Donna (800) 988-5674. parking in rear. Second floor, private one bedroom apartment. Average Practice for Sale - Cumberland Northeast Pennsylvania collections are over $265,000 on two County Well-established general practice for days/week. Priced to sell. Call (717) 4 ops in 2,200 S/F (r/e also available) sale in Wayne County/Pocono 665-1587 or [email protected]. free standing building. Over 3,000 Mountain area. Owner looking to active pts. 4 days/wk. Strong hyg. retire. Completely renovated 1,300 sq. PRACTICE BUYERS WANTED Rev. $527K 6 yr young practice. Call ft. modern office with room for For great practices in the Pennsylvania Donna (800) 988-5674. expansion. Real estate also available. area. We have many practices available Please contact [email protected] or for sale. Are you tired of being an Practice for Sale – Adams County (570) 862-4921. Near Philly – employee in a dead end job? Call us 6 ops in 2,900 s/f stand-alone. R/E for Seeking an associate to buy-in and for a FREE CONSULTATION to find sale, 2,200 active pts. Strong Hyg., buy-out. $1.4 million in revenue in out about these opportunities. THE Digital, Cerec, Intra-Oral Cameras this modern highly profitable practice MCNOR GROUP, (888) 273-1014, and Panorex. Rev $620K. Call Donna just 30 minutes from Philadelphia. ext. 103 or [email protected]. (800) 988-5674. www.mcnorgroup.com.

March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal 45 Classified Advertisements

Practice Sales in PA rates and terms. THE MCNOR Western Pennsylvania / Greater Please call Nancy Schoyer at (888) GROUP, (888) 273-1014, ext. 103 or Pittsburgh Area / (Upcoming service 237-4237 or e-mail to nschoyer@ [email protected]. www.mcnor- to Philadelphia/Eastern PA) comcast.net and ask about our group.com. Several practices available with 19 listings in PA. We have practices for collections ranging from $200,000 to Lancaster County sale near Harrisburg, four in York Co., $1,000,000. Established family practice for sale the Pittsburgh and Philadelphia areas, in Lancaster County. Dentist willing to PA (#’s are collections) Beaver County Linesville, Williamsport, Berks County transition with buy-out. Spacious $500,000, Mercer County $700,000, and Hanover. Call The MCNOR office with seven ops. and high tech Clearfield County $1,000,000, GROUP AT (888) 273-1014, ext. 103 equipment. Pleasant suburban setting. Monroeville $500,000, North or e-.mail [email protected]. $800,000 gross/yr. Please call (717) Huntingdon $530,000, Clearfield NEW PRACTICES FOR SALE 725-0032. $300,000, Mt. Lebanon $300,000, We have six excellent new listings in PA! South Hills Pediatric Practice ERIE $480,000, Mid Mon Valley $250,000, Central – Grosses $400K. Great Established general practice only Meadville Prosthodontist $500,000, location. 6 ops. FFS. enhancing your practice and profit South Park $200,000, Punxsutawney Near Pittsburgh – Practice and margin OR as a turnkey operation, $385,000, Canonsburg $210,000, building for less than $295K. including equipment and real estate. Tri-State Periodontist $900,000, Motivated seller. Respond to Box M/A 3. Mid Mon Valley $360,000, Latrobe Scranton – Practice and building $400,000, Forest Hills $350,000, General Dentistry Practice for Sale available. This practice grosses $600K. Venango County $360,000, Exceptional solo practice generating Berks County – Great place to Meadowlands area $400,000. receipts of over $600K per year, with raise a family. This practice collects excellent long-term growth potential. OH – Numerous. over $900K. This is a 15 years old fee-for-service We also have several other dental Near Chambersburg and Bedford – located west of Philadelphia, practices and dental labs available in Practice and building for sale. Great Pennsylvania. The practitioner is relocat- Michigan, Massachusetts, and practice. ing and offers this excellent opportu- Southern California. Please see John McDonnell’s article in nity for a dentist having the necessary Please contact Bob Septak at (724) the November issue of the Dental financial capital and talent. Contact 869-0533, ext 102 or e-mail Economics magazine, page 94 titled Ron Drucker at (215) 665-3960. [email protected]. WWW.UDBA.BIZ. “Why Not Sell Now?” Contact THE As always, we treat these matters with FOR SALE MCNOR GROUP AT (888) 273-1014 the highest amount of confidentiality Active, long standing general practice a ex. 103 or [email protected] and any contact with United few miles north of Pittsburgh. Excellent for more information on these and Dental Brokers of America will be patient base, staff, facility OPPORTU- other opportunities in the area. kept completely confidential. www.mcnorgroup.com. NITY. Respond to Box M/A 2. Active Family Practice PRACTICE AND OFFICE PRACTICE FOR SALE NEAR Active family practice. Southwestern BUILDING FOR SALE PITTSBURGH Pa. Laurel Highlands Area. Owner For sale in western Pennsylvania is a This is a great opportunity. This prac- retiring after 37 years. Call (724) 433- two-generation dental practice and tice is located in 1,400+ square feet 0746 and (724) 640-1154. and has four fully equipped treatment income-producing office building, rooms, and is collecting over $990K which includes four operatories and a with high earnings. The real estate is one bedroom, furnished apartment. also available for purchase. This is The practice/office building is located a great practice for someone that has in a college community. Owner will a dead end job and wants to control finance. Call (724) 458-7620. their destiny. We have 100 percent bank financing available at reasonable

46 March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal Classified Advertisements

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES NEW OWNER REPRESENTATION PARAGON Dental Practice Our family and organization has Transitions Locum Tenens represented over 1,000 new owners The nation’s leading transition Reliable, experienced, compassionate over the last 65 years in the specialists have opportunities temporary coverage for your practice Mid-Atlantic area that have purchased, available for both buyers and sellers. in eastern PA. When you need time started or became partners in a dental David A. Moffa, DMD, MAGD – off, but don’t want to close your prac- practice. Ownership is a decision Western Pennsylvania (866) 841-0353, tice. 30 years of practice experience. that is too important to make without [email protected]. Steven Contact [email protected]. a qualified facilitator. We can get Muench, DDS, MAGD – Eastern Stephen Muench DDS, MAGD the new owner 100 percent financing Pennsylvania (877) 678-1647, plus working capital. Call us for a [email protected]. Visit our FREE CONSULTATION and allow us to website at www.paragon.us.com. Professional Temporary Coverage send you a list of our references. THE Consulting Services Professional temporary coverage MCNOR GROUP, (888) 273-1014, CPA having 22 + years’ experience of your dental practice (locum ext. 103, or [email protected]. (including with AFTCO Associates) tenens) during maternity, disability www.mcnorgroup.com. and personal leaves. Free, no offers independent dental advisory obligation quotes. Absolute confi- PRACTICE VALUATION services involving Buying, Selling, dentiality. Trusted integrity, since APPRAISAL Mediation, Valuation, Expert Witness 1996. Nation’s most distinguished We are the only transition consulting or Tax Planning. Joseph C. Bowers, team. Always seeking new company in the area that has a Certified MBA, CPA/PFS, (610) 544-4100 or dentists to join the team. No cost, Valuation Analyst (CVA) as a principal e-mail [email protected]. that focuses exclusively on the strings or obligation - ever! Work Practice Transitions transition of DENTAL PRACTICES. only when you wish (800) 600- We specialize in Practice Sales, Please see the article by CVA Karen 0963. www.doctorsperdiem.com. Appraisals and Partnership Norris on page 82 of the April ‘07 E-mail: [email protected] Arrangements in Eastern Pennsylvania. issue of Dental Economics on this Free Seller and Buyer Guides available. subject or call or email us for a FREE For more details on our services, CONSULTATION and a copy of the contact Philip Cooper, DMD, MBA PARTNERSHIPS OR DELAYED article. If you are selling, buying, America Practice Consultants, (800) SALES creating a partnership or just want to 400-8550 or [email protected]. We have many satisfied clients with find out the current value of your associates in your area that we have practice contact THE MCNOR GROUP, helped to either buy-in, buy-out (888) 273-1014, ext. 103, or or a delayed sale with the current [email protected]. associate. Without a quality valuation www.mcnorgroup.com. and plan up front these transactions Practice Transitions normally fail. Call or e-mail us to Selling – buying – merging – estab- arrange a FREE CONSULTATION to lishing associateships. CERTIFIED find out if you are a candidate for this VALUATIONS FOR ALL PURPOSES by service. The result is higher income Master Certified Business Appraiser. and a higher practice value for the Professional Practice Planners, 332 seller and a clear financially positive Fifth Avenue, McKeesport, PA 15132. path for the associate. THE MCNOR (412) 673-3144 or (412) 621-2882 GROUP, (888) 273-1014, ext. 103 (after hours.) or [email protected]. www.mcnorgroup.com.

March/April 2010 • Pennsylvania Dental Journal 47