Yankee Dental Congress 2012: the New Wave of Dentistry

MDSMarch - April 2012 KeepingCONNECTION You Connected with Your Society

Yankee Dental Congress 2012: The New Wave of Dentistry By Bill Donnelly, Contributing Writer ave upon wave of dental profes- delivered an inspiring keynote address, students lined up Wsionals rolled through the Boston illuminating triumph over the challenges for the 5 p.m. start. Convention and Exhibition Center (BCEC) he and his son, Rick, faced in their quest Christina Hsu, for Yankee Dental Congress 2012, held to compete in road races and triathlons de- DDS, seemed typi- from January 25 through 29. This year, spite physical disability and discrimination. cal—young, bright, YDC placed an added emphasis on the Then Miss Massachusetts Molly Whalen— and focused—and new wave of technologies and dental a graduate of the Forsyth School of Dental eager to gain helpful innovations that help dental profession- Hygiene—spoke about her “Smart Smiles” information about als at every point of their careers surf the project that promotes oral health aware- how to direct Dr. Anthony Giamberardino, YDC 2012 general chair rewarding challenges of today’s health care ness and education for children. her new career. and business seas. As promised, the New Dentist Itinerary Dr. Hsu joined the In his introduction to the keynote ad- addressed the needs of the new generation MDS three years ago, and has attended dress Thursday morning, MDS Secretary of dentists, appealing directly to those just YDC each year since. and YDC 2012 General Chair Dr. Anthony wading into the dental profession. The all- “I’ve been here all day for the CE,” said Giamberardino stressed Yankee’s big day event held Thursday, January 26, drew Dr. Hsu, noting that she unfortunately picture, highlighting new and continuing newly practicing dentists and dental students wouldn’t have much time for the social as- popular exhibits like the Live Dentistry to various programs. Before the “Starting a pect of the conference. But plenty of other Theater, the High-Tech Playground, and Practice Vs. Buying a Practice: What’s Right new dentists did fi nd time in their busy the Nutrition Nook, as well as an expanded for Me?” lecture led by Jeff Hoepf and Ben conference schedules to attend the recep- Conference for Women in Dentistry and Stewart from Bank of America Practice tion sponsored that evening by the Dental the New Dentist Itinerary. Dick Hoyt then Solutions, young professionals and dental Continued on page 3

Non-covered Services Bill Passes First Test On January 27, 2012, the legislative Joint Committee on Financial Services The MDS is committed to seeing this bill passed before the end of the legisla- favorably reported H.3916, an amended version of our bill prohibiting tive session in July. Please continue to keep an eye out for MDS grassroots Action insurers from setting fees for services for which they do not pay providers. Alerts, where we will periodically ask you to contact your legislators about The updated version of the bill maintains that prohibition, but it does allow this important bill. If you have any additional questions, please contact David insurers to offer providers the opportunity to accept such a provision as a White, MDS director of governmental affairs, at [email protected] term of the contract between the insurer and the provider. Insurers must or (800) 342-8747, ext. 225. give dentists the option to drop that provision upon renewal, as well. Furthermore, the insurer would not be allowed to discriminate against a Beacon Hill Day: Let Your Voice Be Heard dentist because he or she does not accept that contract provision, and The MDS is hosting our annual Beacon Hill Day on Wednesday, April 11, 2012, the insurer would not be able to implement the provision by amending its at the State House. For more information, visit www.massdental.org/bhd policies or procedures. These compromises help to protect dentists and or contact Victoria Ryan, MDS coordinator of grassroots advocacy, at patients alike from unfair cost-shifting practices by insurers. (800) 342-8747, ext. 242, or [email protected].

this issue Page 2 Page 6 Page 9 Page 12 ➢ ➢ ➢ MDS Foundation Walk with the Miles Delta Refuses to An Evening of Awards Grants and Smiles Team Participate in Workgroup Culinary Sensations EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE

Robert E. Boose, EdD The MDS Foundation: FIRST DISTRICT The Second Chapter Continues TRUSTEE REPORT The MDS Foundation, hours of its dentist and dental assistant by six hours Jeffrey Dow, DMD which was founded in per week. 1999, has a young history Lynn Community Health Center received compared to the Society’s 148 years; however, it has $35,000 to increase its capacity to serve patients One of the major issues the Board of Trustees made terrifi c progress these past two years. by adding additional operatories. and House of Delegates will be looking at We continue to build on the prior successes of Oral Health Excellence Collaborative in this year is our governance structure. The ADA the MDS Foundation Mobile Access to Care (MAC) Hyannis was awarded $20,552 to increase the governance structure hasn’t changed much over Van, which provided many opportunities for our hours of its program coordinator in order to increase the last 50 years, but the way we communicate, members to volunteer or donate funds to support the number of low-income patients served. the speed at which we communicate, and the the program. The Foundation’s legacy of providing Here you can see the results of the Founda- volume of information we share have all greatly and expanding opportunities for oral care to those tion’s efforts to fund worthy programs such as increased in that same period of time. who need it the most—children and the elderly— these. Moreover, I hope that this will encourage The ADA has solicited bids from companies needed to shift its focus from providing a program you to become more involved by participating in an specializing in organizational governance to look for delivering care to funding current and emerging upcoming local fundraising effort to be coordinated at the current structure to determine its cost- access-to-care programs. So, when the key funding by a District Foundation Ambassador. We are in effectiveness and to see if it is the most effi cient for the van project was over, the MDS Board ap- the process of seeking volunteers for this position way to run an organization of our size and proved the recommendation that the Foundation in all 13 districts. The MDS Board of Trustees has complexity. They will seek input from all levels of shift from operating an access-to-care project to approved this strategy and directed your district the tripartite—from volunteer leaders, members providing grants to stimulate new or expand exist- trustee to work with your district leaders to identify of the House, the Board, and ADA staff. ing programs. at least one ambassador to work with the Founda- There are some key elements to consider. Additionally, the Board presented a resolution to tion Board of Trustees. Please see my column in the First is the size of our Board, the number and the 2009 House of Delegates to create an endow- January-February 2012 MDS CONNECTION to learn size of each of our councils, and the size of our ment of $1 million through a three-year special more details and how to get involved. House of Delegates. I have no preconceived idea assessment. In order for the Foundation to award Also, the MDS Foundation is putting forth a of what this will lead us to, but I look forward to meaningful grants, there must be a strong endow- resolution to the House of Delegates to extend the a robust discussion of the results. A second element is how we meet and com- 2 ment. current special assessment for three additional years In 2010, a grant process was developed, and the in order to build a purposeful corpus from which it municate. Governance costs the ADA between Foundation received 21 proposals totaling in excess can award future grants on your behalf to worthy 15 and 20 percent of its annual budget. The of $400,000 for its Expanding Access to Dental projects. I hope the grants awarded by the grant pro- days of snail mail and faxes are long gone. Care Grant Program. Unfortunately, the endowment gram over these past two years have demonstrated Today, videoconferencing is cost-effective and and current funds were not suffi cient to award and answered the question “What does the MDS doesn’t take a volunteer away from his or grants in this amount. However, the Foundation Foundation do?” The Foundation is the philanthropic her home and business for a day or two at a was able to award grants totaling nearly $131,000 arm of the MDS. Please help strengthen it by support- time. I believe there will always be a need for to six organizations. ing its worthy funding efforts. individual meetings and group gatherings in During the fi rst year of the program, MDS Foun- the ADA, but it is also possible that some of our dation Chair Dr. Alan DerKazarian led a group of business can be conducted just as easily using staff and district leaders in presenting the awards to advanced technology. each of the six projects. The experience was incred- Finally, it will be interesting to look at how ible. This year, Dr. DerKazarian is attending district we choose the members who participate in our meetings to present the awards to grant recipients A Bimonthly Newsletter of the governance. Traditionally, we have always cho- residing in the various districts. I hope you will at- Massachusetts Dental Society sen proportional representation for all councils tend your district meeting to learn more about what and the House of Delegates. The exceptions Charles L. Silvius, DDS are the Council on Scientifi c Affairs and the you and your district can do for the Foundation. President This year, the Foundation received grant requests Commission on Dental Accreditation. I feel that Anthony N. Giamberardino, DMD representation from every state is vital and that from 10 programs and organizations across the Secretary Commonwealth, four of which were chosen to each state should have a minimum number of Robert E. Boose, EdD delegates. receive grants totaling $93,643. Here are the proj- Executive Director ects that were awarded grants this year and their I am encouraged that we are looking at Scott G. Davis independent analysis to provide input on this intentions to improve access to care: Chief Communications Ofﬁ cer Boston Health Care for the Homeless Pro- important discussion. I am sure that some of the Melissa Carman gram was awarded $12,500 to increase clinic time Managing Editor of Publications & Website recommendations will require us to be open to change. Change, though not always easy, is es- in its dental clinic and part-time shelter clinic. (This Jeanne M. Burdette program also received a $20,000 grant last year, Manager, Graphic Design sential for the ADA to maintain its relevance and value to you, the members. As always, I welcome which it used to fund the salary of an additional Shelley Padgett dentist and a dental assistant to ensure that home- Graphic Designer your thoughts at [email protected]. less and needy patients receive dental care.) Greater Roslindale Medical and Dental Follow us on: Center was awarded $25,591 to increase the MDS Connection March - April 2012 Yankee Dental Congress

Yankee Dental Congress 2012: The New Wave of Dentistry, continued from page 1 Trade Alliance. During the reception, young fi nal show day. Morteza Yazdi, DMD, a 16-year MDS member dental professionals mingled and networked. from Burlington, brought his daughters, Lilly and Lida, along to Meanwhile, on Thursday evening in the enjoy some of the excitement. Earlier, he had attended a “very BCEC Ballroom, the YDC Beach Ball com- informative” lecture about MassHealth and access to dental care. menced, a sun-and-sand-themed party meant to Dr. Yazdi, who specializes in pediatric dentistry, has a particular shake off the winter doldrums. Papa Doo Run interest in access to care and dental health in underprivileged com- Run played surf-rock classics and lured a sizable munities and believes things are improving for the underserved crowd onto the dance fl oor, where they heated throughout Massachusetts. He was at the conference for his second Dr. Cressida Joseph up the room to summer beach party tempera- day and complimented the YDC organization and CE offerings. tures. Happily, plenty of refreshments were on hand—cold drinks and Saturday afternoon also featured a course new to Yankee, cocktails, and snacks like fried dough just like at the boardwalk. “The Hearing Impaired Patient,” with instructor Jonathan Highlighting the MDS’s and YDC’s broad appeal, the sev- O’Dell, who is deaf himself. The lecture offered tips on treating enth annual Women’s Dental Conference a segment of the patient population that altered its program this year, sponsoring doesn’t get a lot of attention but that offers seminars and meet-and-greet events at the its own unique challenges. This free course Westin Waterfront Hotel over two days, touched on sign language and interpreters, as Friday and Saturday, instead of the previous well as assistive technology that can help the one-day seminar. The new format was well deaf or hard-of-hearing patient communicate received by attendees. This year’s theme, more easily with the dentist during treatment. “The Balancing Act,” focused on the unique Back for a third year, the Live Dentistry issues women dentists face in achieving Theater on the Exhibit Hall fl oor drew equilibrium among professional commit- capacity crowds interested in seeing new ments, home and family life, and personal dental procedures performed on the stage well-being. The Friday session focused on directly in front of them. And for the second the business challenges professional women year, MDS member Dr. Paul Feuerstein 3 face, with a class titled “Pleasing Patients Dr. Morteza Yazdi of Burlington and his daughters, Lilly and presided over the High-Tech Playground, a Profi tably.” Lida, enjoy the YDC Exhibit Hall fl oor on Saturday. “hands-on” exhibit where the latest devices By the 1:30 p.m. start, the room was and technologies were available for inspec- fi lled to near capacity. After the class, at the tion and demonstration without any sales Wine and Cheese Reception sponsored by pitch. The space was open to all to drop in, the MDS Standing Committee on Women but did feature three days of CE offerings, in Dentistry, reviews of the program were as well. New to Yankee this year, the Nutri- overwhelmingly positive. Cressida Joseph, tion Nook ran a series of programs about DMD, a 12-year MDS member, expressed the impact of nutrition on oral health. her enthusiastic support for the women’s This year, YDC embraced mobile tech- conference, saying, “I love it, and I’ll do it nology like never before, offering a down- every year from now on.” Dr. Joseph, who loadable YDC 2012 mobile app available has practiced for 19 years and attended 15 for iPhone, Droid, Blackberry, and Win- YDCs, also gave high marks to Yankee as a dows platforms. The application allowed whole, noting how helpful and organized the Traffi c was steady on the YDC 2012 Exhibit Hall fl oor. users to instantly access a broad base of staff had been. She planned to attend a “couple information, from the times and locations of classes,” network, look for old friends, and of course offerings to a map of the BCEC, see the exhibits. as well as shuttle schedules and even menus For those not worn out by all the activ- and discounts for local restaurants. ity, the real fun began Friday night when In keeping with the burgeoning mobile funnyman Lenny Clarke and his friends technology theme, Drs. David M. Madow and fellow Boston-based comedians Steve and Richard H. Madow—also known as Sweeney and Tony V. took the stage at the “The Rock and Roll Dentists” or the Madow BCEC Ballroom. By 9 p.m., the room fi lled Brothers—offered a sold-out lecture explor- with a crowd ready to relax and laugh after ing social media and business websites as two days of conferencing and networking. tools to cultivate dental practices. And the three comedians didn’t disappoint, By the time YDC 2012 came to a close keeping the crowd laughing with their wise- on Sunday morning, January 29, and cracking takes on life in Boston. Dr. Richard H. Madow, along with his brother Dr. David M. the wave crested and receded, more than On Saturday morning, the Exhibit Hall Madow, presented a sold-out lecture at YDC 2012 on grow- 27,000 attendees and exhibitors had fl owed ing your dental practice using social media and the Internet. still hustled and bustled with attendees and through the BCEC, marking a very success- exhibitors eager to make the most of the ful event. MDS Connection www.massdental.org Access to Care

Volunteer Dentists Needed for Free Dental Care Project MDS member Dr. Romesh Nalliah recently screening and dental education events at oversaw a free dental clinic for the home- homeless shelters across Boston to create less in Boston. The clinic, housed at the interest and develop a patient pool. The Bridge Over Troubled Waters homeless project culminated in the day of free care shelter, provided free dental care for home- on February 10, 2012. less individuals at its three-chair clinic as Running a dynamic walk-in clinic with part of a one-day pilot program. The proj- no set appointments was imperative to ect, which provided valuable experience to reach this vulnerable group, and approx- area dental students, was run in collabora- imately $3,000 of free dental care was tion with Bridge Over Troubled Waters delivered to homeless individuals that day. Clinical Services Director Greg Perchik. This does not include the more than 50 Dr. Nalliah, along with Dr. Peggy Timothe, screenings administered, dental education supervised the dental students in delivering discussed, and nearly 100 free toothbrushes treatment at the free-care day. and tubes of toothpaste delivered to the Homeless individuals face unique chal- homeless as part of the project. Dr. Romesh Nalliah (right) instructs a patient on proper lenges and unstable circumstances that Based on the success of the pilot toothbrushing technique as part of the free care day. make it impossible to book appointments one-day clinic, Dr. Nalliah would like to and advertise in a traditional way. Net- continue the program by holding future payment for volunteers may be possible. working with institutions that serve the free treatment clinics. Volunteer dentists If you are interested in volunteering, homeless and spreading the news by word are needed to assist with overseeing dental or would like more information, please of mouth are the most important means of students at the events. A grant for the contact Dr. Nalliah at romesh_nalliah@ advertising. This project involved several program is currently being written, so that hsdm.harvard.edu.

MASSHEALTH UPDATE

4 Good Things Can Happen By Tracy Chase, MassHealth Contract Director

The MassHealth team works to ensure that patients under the age of 21 who health care. Those caring for her were faced with a new set of challenges, how- have an oral condition deemed medically necessary are covered for treatment. ever, in terms of fi nding a new orthodontic home and securing an additional MassHealth regulations state that “providers are reminded that a dental provider payment for orthodontic care through MassHealth. Finding an orthodontic pro- may request prior authorization for any medically necessary service payable in vider who was willing to take this member was diffi cult due to the need to start accordance with the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment over with the treatment. A provider was found using DCF and MassHealth resources. (EPSDT) provisions set forth in 130 CMR 450.144,42 U.S.C. 1396d (a) and 42 The fi nancial barrier came about due to state regulations stating that you can receive U.S.C. 1396d (r) (5) for a MassHealth Standard or CommonHealth member under payment for braces once per lifetime. Since this child had already used her orthodontic age 21. This applies even if the service is not listed in Subchapter 6 of the Dental benefi t for braces in 2008, this created another hurdle. Manual.” A regional nurse from DCF reached out to Dr. Brent Martin, MassHealth Recently, a case regarding a 17-year-old girl was brought to our attention state dental director, and upon review of the case, Dr. Martin made the deci- by a regional nurse employed by the Massachusetts Department of Children sion to approve a secondary orthodontic benefi t to address the need for a and Families (DCF). The girl had been placed in a number of different foster new orthodontic provider to start the process over to treat this member and to homes over several years. The adults taking care of her were unable to ensure receive payment. The treatment was determined to be medically necessary. that she received the dental-related care she needed. This child is an approved The assistance provided by the state dental director, MassHealth, the child’s MassHealth member due to her status as a foster child. She originally had caregivers, and the orthodontist resulted in excellent care. brackets placed on her teeth while under orthodontic care in 2008. This course Partnerships like this throughout the communities in Massachusetts are of orthodontic treatment, on average, can sometimes take up to two years. Due vital to responding to the needs of MassHealth members and promoting a to barriers in creating an orthodontic home that were beyond this child’s control, system that is strong and meaningful. her treatment could not be completed. Broken brackets and wires resulted, as More information regarding covered services within the MassHealth well as diffi culties maintaining good oral health. Program, including guidelines surrounding medical necessity, can be found At the time this case came to our attention, the member’s life situation had within the MassHealth state regulations on the MassHealth dental web portal improved a great deal in terms of stability and the ability to focus on her oral at www.masshealth-dental.net or by calling (800) 207-5019.

DID YOU KNOW that, according to MassHealth, 95 percent of all MassHealth-eligible dental patients have at least two providers within 5 miles of their home zip code?

MDS Connection March - April 2012 Massachusetts Head Start Association Receives Grant

The Massachusetts Head Start Association (MHSA) is the In October 2011, MDS member Dr. Anubha Sacheti, recent recipient of a $250,000 grant from the DentaQuest along with Deidre Callanan, RDH, and Nancy Topping-Tailby, Foundation that will be used to launch a new access-to-care LICSW, authored Happy, Healthy Teeth! A Guide to Children’s initiative. Building Successful Collaborative State Oral Health Dental Health. The book was created to address a lack of Consortiums launches a new collaboration between the written material for children that centered on dental visits Massachusetts and Pennsylvania Head Start Associations, and the new suggested age-one visit schedule. It contains building on recent successes in Massachusetts to educate colorful photographs and easy-to-read text to educate chil- Head Start staff and families about the role of oral care in dren and families on how to care for children’s teeth, the role children’s overall wellness. The two associations will work to of healthy nutrition, and the importance of the ﬁ rst dental increase the number of children in Pennsylvania who complete visit by the age of one. The book was developed through a dental examinations and receive treatment when needed, ac- previous DentaQuest Foundation grant to MHSA to address cording to the age-appropriate recommended schedule of care. the need for accurate, science-informed oral health informa- Currently, the MDS Council on Access, Prevention, and Interprofessional tion to promote children’s dental health, especially among children who are at Relations (CAPIR) is working with the Massachusetts chapters of the American a moderate-to-high-risk of early childhood caries. Academy of Pediatric Dentists and the American Academy of Pediatrics, as well The book, which sells for $8, would be a great addition to MDS members’ as the Massachusetts Academy of Family Physicians, to promote consistent oral waiting rooms. For more information or to place an order, contact Nancy health messages for families about the importance of age-one dental care. Topping-Tailby at [email protected].

MDS Member Runs Boston Marathon with Team Hoyt Dick Hoyt and his son Rick, who was born with multiple disabilities, compete as “Team Hoyt” in marathons and triathlons around the world. Dick Hoyt was the keynote speaker at the Yankee Dental Congress 2012 opening ceremony on Thursday, January 26, 2012. MDS member Bryan Lyons, DMD, who was in attendance at the keynote, will be running his fourth Boston Marathon on April 16 with Team Hoyt. Read Dr. Lyons’s inspiring story, in his own words, about how he became involved with this father–son team. If you’d like to make a donation to Dr. Lyons and Team Hoyt, please visit www.crowdrise.com/hoytfoundation2012bostonmarath/fundraiser/bryanlyons. 5 I ran my fi rst marathon in February 2000. complete another marathon, but I was not And then, while driving home from work ready mentally, physically, or emotionally. on the night of February 6, 2001, I was In 2008, a club member posted that Team struck by a drunk driver. It took me exactly Hoyt was looking for runners to join their 11 months to the day of the accident to 2009 Boston Marathon Charity Team. I run one mile without back pain. Before the grew up watching Dick and Rick compete accident, I could run 16 in the Boston Marathon to 18 miles on any given and was always in awe day. It took me almost of and inspired by them. Dr. Bryan Lyons (right) is shown with Dick Hoyt and Rick Hoyt fi ve years to be able to When the opportunity nearing the ﬁ nish line of the 2011 Boston Marathon last April. run 5 miles again. In to run with Team Hoyt The Billerica dentist is running the famed race again this year as part of Team Hoyt. January 2006, I ran my arose, I knew immedi- fi rst half marathon (13.1 ately that it was the only it was I who needed them. What started as miles) since the accident. catalyst I would need to the inspiration to tackle another marathon My fi nishing time was take on the challenge of has grown into a way of life for me. Since about a half hour slower another marathon. joining Team Hoyt in 2008, I have completed than prior to the accident. This April, I will be eight additional marathons, nearly 100 Instead of being elated running my fourth Bos- triathlons, and more than 150 road races. that I had completed the ton Marathon with Team During every race since the 2009 Boston race, I was very discour- Hoyt and raising money Marathon, I have worn a small photo aged at my performance. Dr. Bryan Lyons, right, catches up with Dick Hoyt for the Hoyt Founda- of Dick and Rick competing in the Mas- While discussing this at YDC 2012 following Mr. Hoyt’s keynote tion. Team Hoyt strives sachusetts State Triathlon Championship. with a childhood friend, address, which kicked off the conference. to educate society about Having Team Hoyt “with” me has helped he suggested that I try a the inclusion of people me get through many diffi cult times, not triathlon (swim, bike, and run event) as with disabilities and to help those who are only in my athletic endeavors, but in my there was less emphasis on the running; so physically disabled become active members personal and professional lives, as well. I did—and I was hooked. of their community, school, or workplace. They have touched and enhanced so many I joined a local triathlon club, and was When I refl ect back on my decision to lives and families; I am privileged to be a content with competing in triathlons. At join Team Hoyt four years ago, I realize part of Team Hoyt and truly honored to the time, I knew that someday I would that it was not Team Hoyt that needed me, call them my friends.

MDS Connection www.massdental.org Membership “Miles and Smiles”: Stepping Together for a Good Cause Cancer doesn’t discriminate. It can strike anyone Not sure you can walk the 26.2-mile mara- and its reach affects us all—man, woman, and thon route? You don't have to. Walkers have child. Every day, 3,000 Americans are diagnosed the option of choosing from four different route with the disease. And now, the MDS Standing options: Committee on Women in Dentistry has decided to • Hopkinton to Boston Finish Line: 26.2 miles take steps—literally—to help cancer research by • Babson College to Finish Line: 13.1 miles creating the “Miles and Smiles Team,” which will • Boston College to Finish Line: 5 miles participate in the Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund • Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (Boston) Walk on September 9, 2012. The team captain is to Finish Line: 3 miles Middlesex District Trustee Dr. Janis Moriarty. “Many members of the Standing Committee on To register for the Miles and Smiles Team, visit Women in Dentistry will be walking in memory of our www.massdental.org/women and click on beloved colleague and former MDS trustee from the the MDS Miles and Smiles link. All participants are South Shore District, Dr. June Lee, who lost her coura- required to raise a minimum of $300. geous battle with cancer in 2010,” says Dr. Moriarty. “Join us in a tribute to Dr. Lee, or walk in honor or Need Help Training? memory of whomever you wish, as we all have been The MDS Standing Committee on Women in If you don't want to walk but still want to touched by this disease in one way or another.” Dentistry would like to put together training teams. support the Miles and Smiles Team, visit www. The Standing Committee on Women in Dentistry To join a Miles and Smiles training team, please massdental.org/women to learn how to make is looking for more people to join the Miles and contact Ellen Factor, MDS assistant director of a donation. Donations can be made directly to the Smiles Team. All MDS colleagues, friends, and fam- membership, at (800) 342-8747, ext. 228, or team or to an individual member of the Miles and ily are welcome to participate and join the team. [email protected]. Smiles Team.

Connect with Your Patients Using Mobile Websites 6 Mobile Internet use (phone or tablet) has Why You Need a Mobile Website grown fourfold since 2010. And by 2013, • Smaller viewing window. Compared to PCs, the display screens of mobile more people will be accessing the Internet devices are much smaller, and many images, videos, and Flash content on mobile phones than on PCs. For these that would normally appear and perform fine on a desktop or laptop need reasons, a mobile website is an important to be adapted for clear viewing on smartphones and tablet computers. Once component in reaching and communicat- optimized, mobile websites are easier to navigate using touch, thus helping with your existing patients, as well as ing patients get to the information they’re looking for faster. generating new patients. • Content adaptability. A mobile-compatible website will mirror the display Optimizing your practice website to a and messaging on your full website, giving your patients the same mobile version is a complex process that experience on their phones that they would get on their desktops. Edits involves decreasing image size, improving and changes made to your full website will automatically be reflected performance speed, and creating a look and on mobile devices, allowing for single-source editing that translates to feel for your practice in a mobile-compatible website updates across every device. format. Having a mobile website makes • Ease of use. Your mobile site’s unique functionality, 24-hour access, your practice look great to both new and and engaging, easy-to-use interface will allow for more effective and existing patients on all devices, including efficient marketing. Once your site is mobile-ready, visitors—both desktops, laptops, smartphones, and tablets. existing and potential patients—will be able to easily and instantly navigate the content of your site on a smartphone, including mobile- Why Mobile? specific features such as instant click-to-call, door-to-door office Suppose a patient is out running errands and suddenly remembers that she directions, appointment requesting, and access to social media sites needs to make an appointment for a teeth cleaning. Rather than postponing and patient reviews. her plans to schedule an appointment until she returns home—increasing her odds of forgetting—she simply pulls out her smartphone and visits her Seeking the assistance of a dental website and Internet marketing com- dentist’s website. pany can help you quickly create a mobile version of your practice website If the dentist has a mobile-compatible website, then the practice’s phone that will benefi t your patients. Offi cite, an MDS Affi nity Partner, is proud to number, offi ce directions, and appointment-requesting features will be clearly release its second-generation mobile website solution so that dentists can and quickly presented on the patient’s phone. The patient won’t have to scroll reach patients anywhere, anytime, and from any device. through numerous pages of hard-to-read content to fi nd contact informa- As always, MDS members enjoy preferred pricing on Offi cite’s services and tion. These options will be readily available on a single page, making the online marketing solutions. To learn more, visit www.offi cite.com/mds or appointment-requesting process simple and convenient. call (877) 638-8917.

MDS Connection March - April 2012 Visit www.massdental.org/ce to register YANKEE INSTITUTE or for a complete list of upcoming courses and descriptions, as well as directions to the MDS.

TRANSITION PLANNING: NEW! HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGEMENT PROGRAM DEVELOPING AN EXIT STRATEGY Date: Friday, April 20, 2012 Intended for dental offi ce managers, dental hygienists, dental assistants, receptionists, Time: Registration: 8:30 a.m., Seminar: 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. front offi ce staff, and dentists to establish proper protocol and workplace standards. Complimentary continental breakfast and light lunch provided by Henry Schein Practice Transitions Dates: Mondays, April 23–May 14, 2012 420 Discounted Fee: $60 MDS Dentist Member/MDS Auxiliary Time: 5:30–8:30 p.m. Member/Spouse Register by April 10 423 Discounted Fee: $499 Register by April 13 420A Discounted Fee: $100 Non-MDS Member Register by April 10 423 Fee: $529 Register after April 13 420 Fee: $80 MDS Dentist Member/MDS Auxiliary Member/Spouse Register after April 10 CE Hours: 12 Lecture 420A Fee: $120 Non-MDS Member Register after April 10 Speakers: Mary Frohn, CDA, CDPMA, EFDA; Laurie LaBrie; Kathy Pauze CE Hours: 5 Lecture Speaker: Eugene W. Heller, DDS, is national director of Henry Schein Professional CLASS 1: STAFFING NEEDS, BORID INFORMATION, Practice Transitions, and a national lecturer and industry expert on all aspects of dental practice transitions. RECRUITMENT AND JOB DESCRIPTIONS All practicing dentists will experience at least one transition in their careers, from How many staff members does it take for your offi ce to run at optimum level? How active practice and ownership to a termination of ownership and eventual retirement do you fi nd and locate competent staff in today’s job market? Do you know about from practice. This seminar is designed to help each doctor develop his or her personal the “hidden job market”? transition plan and exit strategy. Regardless of whether planned retirement is immediate or 20 years away, most decisions made relative to the daily operations of a dental practice LEARNING OBJECTIVES will have a signifi cant impact on the practice’s eventual transition. For the protection of Learn to write compelling ads to recruit qualifi ed auxiliaries Understand Board of the dentist’s family, staff, and patients, having a plan is as important as the day-to-day Registration in Dentistry (BORID) licensing and credentialing regulations for dental management and operation of a dental practice. personnel Be able to recruit staff effectively LEARNING OBJECTIVES CLASS 2: TEAM DEVELOPMENT: BENEFITS, Learn how to identify transition options, goals, and steps to plan implementation COMPENSATION, PERFORMANCE REVIEW, Know the impact of legal business entities on transition HIRING, TERMINATION Understand the nonfi nancial aspects of transition This course covers the skills to attract, hire, and develop a great team; support team Know how to analyze your practice’s current status and value enhancements members through competitive benefi ts packages; establish good communication; Learn about associates, transitions, and co-ownership options provide effective performance reviews; and develop effective methods for behavior Discuss transition nightmares and case histories modifi cation or termination. Recommended Audience: Dentist Spouse LEARNING OBJECTIVES 7 Understand the hiring and interview system Learn what is in the salary and Thanks to Henry Schein Practice Solutions for its support. benefi ts package Discover how to prepare a performance review Learn how to terminate Develop written advertisements that will entice future employees FUNCTION OF OCCLUSION CLASS 3: EMPLOYEE RECORD MANAGEMENT, IN EVERYDAY PRACTICE HR MANUAL, OFFICE POLICY Well-constructed policies, procedures, and employee paperwork can make Date: Wednesday, April 25, 2012 the diffi cult job of managing employees easier. This session will address the Time: Registration: 8:30 a.m., Seminar: 9:00 a.m.–12:00 noon documentation a practice needs, as well as how to use it. We will look at employee 425 Discounted Fee: $70 MDS Dentist Member/MDS Auxiliary handbooks, employee fi les, information security policies, time-off policies, electronic Member Register by April 15 communication policies, workplace conduct, and managing employee performance. 425A Discounted Fee: $100 Non-MDS Member Register by April 15 LEARNING OBJECTIVES 425 Fee: $90 MDS Dentist Member/MDS Auxiliary Review the state and federal laws that affect your practice Understand the role of Member Register after April 15 the employee handbook and employee documentation in managing employees and 425A Fee: $120 Non-MDS Dentist Member/MDS Auxiliary minimizing risks Defi ne employee fi les and learn how to avoid costly mistakes Member Register after April 15 with documentation Develop performance documentation to make employee CE Hours: 3 Lecture issues easier to handle Speaker: Philip J. Koralishn, DDS, is associate clinical professor of prosthodontics and operative dentistry at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, and CLASS 4: BILLING AND COLLECTION PRACTICES maintains a private practice in Wakefi eld. Wear, cracks, fractures, mobility, and crowns and bridges that come loose are almost AND PROGRAM WRAP-UP always due to problems with occlusal function. Many of the problems associated with This seminar will cover contemporary billing and collection practices and will also temporomandibular disorders can be directly related to occlusal malfunction. Understand include an interactive course wrap-up session. Participants will be given a template the “cause-and-effect” relationship between occlusal problems and what you see in your and can begin to create their own human resources manual. patients’ mouths on a daily basis, as well as how to approach treatment. LEARNING OBJECTIVES LEARNING OBJECTIVES Identify the various methods of contemporary billing and collection practices  Understand what is right occlusion versus wrong occlusion Understand controlled timing in accounts receivable practices Know how to establish accounts receivable policies to prevent aging accounts Develop the best Review the cause behind the effect methods of verbal and written communications when dealing with patient accounts Discover why function and esthetics are inseparable and collections Learn how to organize and arrange a human resources manual Learn how to diagnose your patient’s occlusal problems Recommended Audience: Dentist Hygienist Assistant Offi ce Staff Recommended Audience: Dentist

The Massachusetts Dental Society is an ADA CERP-recognized provider. ADA CERP is a service of the American Dental Association to assist dental professionals in identifying quality providers of continuing dental education. ADA CERP does not approve or endorse individual courses or instructors, nor does it imply acceptance of credit hours by boards of dentistry. Concerns or complaints about a CE provider may be directed to the provider or to ADA CERP at www.ada.org/goto/cerp.

MDS Connection www.massdental.org Insurance & Finance Ask the Experts: What Is Private Mortgage Insurance?

Private mortgage insurance (PMI) protects the lender against the risk of insurance premiums you pay as deductible mortgage interest. However, the the borrower defaulting on the mortgage. Lenders generally require you to amount of the deduction is phased out if your adjusted gross income exceeds purchase PMI if your loan is more than 80 percent of the value of your home. $100,000 ($50,000 if married and fi ling separately). Without PMI, you may be unable to qualify for a mortgage. Typically, once If you don’t have at least 20 percent for a down payment, you still have you reach 20 percent or more in home equity and you have a good payment a couple of ways to avoid paying PMI premiums. Certain types of mortgages, history, your lender should remove the requirement for PMI. And lenders must such as Federal Housing Authority loans and Veterans Administration loans for automatically cancel PMI when your loan-to-value fi gure reaches 78 percent, qualifi ed veterans, do not require PMI. Your lender may waive the requirement although certain exceptions may apply. for PMI in exchange for increasing your mortgage interest rate by roughly PMI does not protect you against losing your house in the event you’re the same amount as your PMI premium. Another alternative is using the 80- unable to pay your mortgage. Moreover, the insurance company may be able 10-10 loan, where your fi rst mortgage is equal to 80 percent of the property to seek recourse against you for any claims it pays to the lender as a result of value, and you take a second mortgage for 10 percent of the balance while your default. you come up with the remaining 10 percent out-of-pocket. You may save a Typically, PMI premiums are paid monthly, usually as part of your mort- few dollars each month with this approach if the combined mortgage pay- gage payment, although the premium may be annualized and paid in a lump ments are less than a single mortgage payment plus the PMI premium. sum at closing. The cost of PMI varies depending on the insurer, and is based on several factors, including the amount of your down payment, the type of Eastern Dental Financial Insurance Agency, 200 Friberg Parkway, Suite 2002, Westborough, MA 01581 mortgage, and whether you pay premiums on a monthly basis or in a lump Phone (800) 898-3342 / Website: www.edic.com/fi nancial-services.html sum. Also, for 2007 through 2012, you may be able to treat certain mortgage Copyright © 2012 Forefi eld Inc. All rights reserved.

Health Industry Pricing 2012: Is Change in the Air? 8 By George Gonser Mr. Gonser is CEO of MDSIS–Spring Insurance Group.

For most small businesses and dental practices, administrative percentage caps they have to meet to had and will continue to have a positive impact on April 1 is the timeframe when health insurance begin with, but now the increases they are request- rates. In addition, the Accountable Care Organiza- premiums are renewed. From what we hear, the ing are in the low single digits. This is progress— tion model (to be discussed in this column in the projected average rate increases for the second progress that results in lower premiums for all of us. future) has the ability to further streamline care quarter of 2012 could be the lowest we’ve seen Lower Utilization—Another reason for the to ensure greater quality, delivery, and timeliness. in the past 15 years. Why now? And what are the lower premiums is that overall health care utiliza- The fi rst step is to focus on Medicare, but as the factors contributing to the increased stabilization tion has been declining over the past two years. The concept evolves, look for it to have impact on the of health insurance premiums in Massachusetts? recession’s grip on people’s disposable income has 0–65 markets in the future. History—As we have all experienced, health resulted in people hoarding medications, not taking Let’s not forget that even low single-digit base insurance premiums have skyrocketed. In particular, part in preventive services, and putting off elective increases on top of already high insurance pre- most small businesses have seen total increases in offi ce visits and surgical procedures for the time miums are still a problem. It is a stretch to think excess of 100 percent over the past 10 years. being. The key term is “the time being.” My concern that signifi cant decreases in premiums can be Governmental Intervention—In 2010, Governor is that as preventive and basic services are cut back, expected, but the reduction of increases is a great Deval Patrick instituted rate caps whereby health you are essentially kicking the health care can down start in the overall process. The introduction of Co- insurance companies had to fi le their premium the road. At some point, there will be ramifi cations operatives Health Plans (more on that in the near increases, with justifi cation, months before the rates from not taking the proper dosages of medication future, too) may also create an opportunity to con- would go into effect. The carriers were instructed or skipping medications entirely, from not going struct sustainable long-term premiums, along with to keep base rates under 10 percent (from an esti- to the doctor for screenings and physicals, or from the items outlined above. Integrating wellness, mated 16 percent), which was met with concern by putting off that surgery. restructuring provider contracting and payment, the carriers, but they relented and 2010 base rates Contractual Implications—Contractual ele- creating true transparency in provider cost and were in the 8 to 10 percent range. Fast-forward to ments have also contributed to the reduction quality, and having a more engaged benefi t/insur- 2011 and the range was pushed down to 5 to 8 of premium costs. The major carrier who cut its ance consumer, coupled with economies-of-scale percent, and then for 2012, the range was pushed premium request in half had just completed its re- pricing, could be a fantastic, long-term structure down even further. Local media reported in late negotiation of its contracts with two major health that will help both businesses and individuals alike. January that one of the largest health insurance care providers. The hospitals and provider groups So as you open your renewal increases for 2012, carriers in Massachusetts asked state regulators to are being asked to restructure their contracts to be aware of the many factors that contribute to the reduce their premiums by half to 1.9 percent, which include quality and cost matrixes with incentives cost. There is more change to come. We at MDSIS– is a number that hasn’t been seen in over 15 years. and to cut their requested increase in half. This has Spring will continue to keep you informed of all the The health insurance companies have aggressive changes in this vital employee benefi t. MDS Connection March - April 2012 Legislative

Grassroots Spotlight Board of Trustees Update On January 13, 2012, MDS member and Metropolitan Highlights from the February 8, 2012, District Dental Society Chair Dr. Michael Putt hosted Board of Trustees meeting. a meeting in his Wayland offi ce to discuss the Society’s non-covered services legislation with Representative Dr. Michael Putt (right) met with Rep. Tom • Greater Boston Pilot Group Chair Dr. Sergio Guz- Tom Conroy (D-Wayland). Several local colleagues Conroy on January 13, 2012, to discuss man updated the Board on the merits and activi- joined Dr. Putt in briefi ng Rep. Conroy on the actual the non-covered services legislation, ties of the program. He also presented a working and anticipated implications of non-covered services among other topics. discussion draft to develop a resolution to be in the dental community. Though previously unfamiliar reviewed by the Board at its March meeting. with the issue, Rep. Conroy was receptive to the concern of the dentists, and was made aware of the MDS’s goal to have non-covered services legislation passed in the current • Dr. Timothy Snail of Charles River Associates legislative session. gave an update on the progress of surveys The attendees also introduced Rep. Conroy to S.1085—An Act Relative to Oral conducted on Delta Dental of MA reimburse- Injuries, a bill that would authorize the Department of Public Health to conduct a ments to participating MDS members. The study on the issue of student-athlete safety in the Commonwealth. Rep. Conroy recog- surveys were first emailed in January 2012, and nized the merits of this proposal. The MDS would like to express our appreciation to approximately 300 members have responded. Dr. Putt, Rep. Conroy, and those who were able to attend this informative and produc- • MDS President Dr. Charles Silvius reported that tive discussion. the Executive Committee had its annual meet- If you would like to host a similar session with your senator or local representative, ing with the dental school deans during YDC please contact Victoria Ryan, MDS coordinator of grassroots advocacy, at (800) 342- 2012, and that one of the primary discussions 8747, ext. 242, or [email protected]. was that of PGY1 and licensure exams. • President-elect Dr. Paula K. Friedman, who also chairs the MDS Inclusion Task Force, said that the group is building on the success of last Delta Refuses to Participate in Workgroup with year’s diversity event and is planning an event the MDS to Examine Regional Schedules for this year on career-building skills. • Newly appointed BORID Trustee Liaison 9 Sen. Harriette L. Chandler (D-Worcester) recently invited Worcester-area dentists and Dr. Stephen Shea, Wachusett District Trustee, representatives from Delta Dental to convene at her State House offi ce. The purpose reported that BORID was continuing to work of the meeting was to discuss the classifi cation of certain communities as “rural” and, on regulations for dental assistants, which have thereby, reimbursing dentists practicing in those communities at a reduced rate. Sen. been accepted but not yet voted on. Chandler was especially concerned because a community such as Northborough, which • President Dr. Silvius is in her district, was coded as “rural” when it clearly is not. At the conclusion of the announced that meeting, Sen. Chandler directed that the MDS work with Delta to identify a potential former MDS Trustee solution to the issue and that she would join both organizations in petitioning the Dr. Philip Millstein will Division of Insurance to approve the change. spearhead a group on However, at a recent meeting attended by Drs. Charles Silvius, Paula Friedman, issues of relevance to Michael Wasserman, MDS staff, and senior representatives from Delta, Kevin Klein, retiring dentists. All senior vice president of dental management at Delta, stated “we do not believe there interested parties were is a problem.” As a result, Delta will not name its representatives to the workgroup. being invited to an At this point, “it is questionable that Delta would even seriously consider any MDS initial meeting held Dr.Dr Millstein recommendations for changes in the regions if we were to develop them,“ says Karen on March 22. Rafeld, MDS assistant executive director and senior policy advisor. The MDS is proceeding with its own data collection via the survey being conducted • Assistant Treasurer Dr. Howard Zolot reported by Olson Research, and the MDS Board of Trustees will be determining next steps. on MDS investments and, in agreement with Treasurer Dr. Michel Jusseaume, recommended an outside review of the MDS portfolio. Dr. Zolot also informed the Board that the Delta Responds mortgage rate on the MDS headquarters building was lowered by the bank to 5 percent, As this issue went to press, Kevin Klein, senior vice president of dental management representing a savings to the MDS of $20,000 at Delta, forwarded this comment: a year. “Delta Dental values the Massachusetts dental community, with whom we have • MassHealth Dental Director Dr. Brent Martin worked for over 40 years. Delta Dental also has a long-term relationship with the gave a presentation on MassHealth statistics Massachusetts Dental Society and is committed to working together to fi nd solutions and methodology and answered questions on that improve oral health care. While we are confi dent that the fee methodology ap- the program. proved by the Division of Insurance and implemented in January 2011 is sound, we remain open to discussion.”

MDS Connection www.massdental.org CLASSIFIEDS

STATE-OF-THE-ART, growing dental practice seeks ENDODONTIC PRACTICE FOR SALE—Great a part-time, leading to full-time, general dentist opportunity. Successful, established, well- To advertise in the MDS CONNECTION, contact Although the Massachusetts Dental Society Jennifer Hanlin at (508) 449-6076 or visit believes that advertisements published in the and an endodontist one day a week in Mansfi eld. respected endodontic practice with high-end the MDS website at www.massdental.org MDS CONNECTION are from reputable sources, Please call Jeff at (508) 261-9261 or email jeff@ referral base. State-of-the-art offi ce for sale and submit an ad online. Payment in advance, the Society neither investigates the offers dynamicdentalinc.com. in Massachusetts’s second-largest city. Please covering the number of insertions, is required. made nor assumes responsibility for them. email [email protected]. 50 words or less (per insertion) ...... $55 The MDS reserves the right to decline and/or GENERAL DENTIST ASSOCIATE wanted for busy, 50¢ each additional word withdraw advertisements at its discretion. well-established, and highly respected family SALEM OFFICE CONDO for sale by owner. Rate includes immediate web posting Deadline for Ad Published dental practice south of Boston. Impressive dentist- Main fl oor on public transportation across MDS Box ...... $15 extra February 1 ...... March-April owned building with beautiful curb appeal. Spa- from NSMC. 1,300 sq. ft. Waiting room, two Upon publication, all classifi ed advertise- April 1 ...... May-June cious, modern, and welcoming work environment. baths, two operatories, lab, business area, ments are posted on the MDS website at June 1 ...... July-August Dedicated and supportive work staff. This is a private offi ce, storage room. Central air, gas www.massdental.org. August 1 ...... September-October unique opportunity for potential buy-in for high- heat, ample free parking, plumbed for nitrous, Reply to a classifi ed advertisement by October 1 ...... November-December quality candidate. Recent and anticipated 2012 central suction included. Great location for addressing the envelope to: MDS CONNECTION December 1 ...... January-February graduates are also encouraged to contact. Please low-volume practice or satellite offi ce. Contact Classifi ed Box ______send CV/resume to dentalopportunity@com- [email protected]. For the most current MDS Classifi ed listings, Two Willow Street, Suite 200 please visit www.massdental.org/ cast.net. Southborough, MA 01745 publications/classifi ed-ads. CONNECTICUT: NEW ENGLAND PRACTICE JOB OPPORTUNITIES WANTED TRANSITIONS—The best choice for sellers PERIODONTIST experienced in implants and bone and buyers. For information about our ser- regeneration to work in your offi ce one to two vices or practice listings, please contact us EQUIPMENT TO BUY OR SELL COME JOIN OUR WELL-ESTABLISHED general den- days a week. Compassionate and communicative. at (888) 888-6506 or www.newengland FOR SALE—Four Summit Biscayne dental chairs tal practice. Part-time leading to full-time in short Call Dr. L. at (781) 956-9152. Thank you. practicetransitions.com. Maine: Central with post-mounted lights. Purchased in 2006 order. We provide the highest-quality dentistry in a ME—Buy-in/buy-out, six operatories, gross and reupholstered in 2010—beige/ivory. Six warm, friendly, and caring environment. The right ENDODONTIST SEEKS OPPORTUNITY—Experi- $1M; Southern ME—This general practice has matching doctor stools. $6,000 for full pack- individual should be able to work as part of a team, enced, personable endodontist seeking an op- four operatories and currently offers advanced age or $1,500 for one chair, light, and stool. have excellent communication skills, and several portunity in Boston/Merrimack Valley/North Shore procedures such as oral surgery and perio in Also have two Steri-Dent portable suction units years of experience. Great opportunity to practice area. Please email [email protected]. addition to restorative dentistry and crown (white—2006)—$300 each. One model trim- all phases of dentistry. Our local communities in- & bridge. Gross $845K. (888) 888-6506 or mer and one whip mix vacuum power mixer— clude Chelmsford, Acton, Littleton, and Westford. ENDODONTIST with experienced, predictable out- www.newenglandpracticetransitions.com. BO for each. Call (978) 290-3601 or email Respond to [email protected]. comes available one day a week. Please contact Massachusetts: Newburyport—Elegant, well- [email protected]. MDS Box 1215. established general practice, four operatories, PART-TIME PEDIATRIC DENTIST and endodontist Dentrix, digital X-ray, Cerec. Gross $1.4M, RE FOR SALE—INTRAORAL CAMERA. RF Systems needed in a busy multispecialty offi ce in New PRACTICES/OFFICES FOR SALE OR RENT available for sale or lease; Braintree—Great wireless; SS24 camera with three 6-inch chair- Bedford. Please send resume to nedspecialists ORTHODONTIC PRACTICE FOR SALE—Orthodon- South Shore location, three operatories, side monitors and printer. Very good condition. @gmail.com. tic practice/dental practice for sale in Putnam, CT. gross $100K; Canton—Gross $272K, two Cost more than $3,000, promotional. Will sell Two days a week with a potential for growth. All operatories, RE available. (888) 888-6506 or for $1,200. Call (413) 743-5677. WELL-ESTABLISHED, fee-for-service practice in equipment and supplies included. Established www.newenglandpracticetransitions.com. the Merrimack Valley is seeking an outgoing, practice for over 30 years. One hour from Boston, New Hampshire: Central NH—Located in ASEPTICO IMPLANT MOTOR & two handpieces personable dentist to join our team. Must have reverse commute. Call (781) 444-8282. a quaint, vibrant college town, this general 10 —lightly used and in excellent condition. Value experience and be interested in a long-term po- dental practice has seven operatories, intra- new was $3,500. Will accept any reasonable of- sition. Practice is located in a wonderful com- DOVER PROFESSIONAL BUILDING, LLC, (“DPB”) oral cameras, panorex, and digital X-ray. Gross fer $1,000 or more. Call (508) 420-1169. munity, less than 45 minutes from downtown is seeking to start up an orthodontic practice in $1.2M, RE available; Southern NH—Gross Boston. Minimum of 2 to 3 years of clinical ex- its downtown Dover building. DPB will subsidize $1M, six operatories, modern equipment, FOR SALE—Self-contained unit, color white perience required. Great income potential. Fee- all build-out, start-up, marketing, and sales ex- digital X-ray, RE available for sale or lease; (contains compressor, vacuum system, water for-service and traditional insurance. Educated penses, and initial patient referrals in exchange Hanover—Buy-in opportunity, gross $1.6M; supply, and handpiece control). Excellent condi- community and affl uent neighboring towns. for a rent agreement on space and an equitable Littleton—Five operatories, gross $600K, tion. No plumbing needed, just a 110-volt out- Modern offi ce with computers and fl at-panel percentage of gross billings. DPB is the only pro- modern offi ce, RE available for sale or lease; let. Purchased in 2007 from Ross Orthodontics televisions in every operatory. Digital imaging. fessional building in the town of Dover. DPB’s Beautiful Seacoast location—Well-established for $4,995. Used for two years, then placed in Excellent work environment. Great managerial main tenant is Mai T. Phan, DMD, PC, one of two second-generation general dental practice has storage. $2,500 or BRO. Call (978) 535-5353 or support and well-trained clinical staff. Practice dentists serving the town of Dover, and would be three operatories, nice space in a historic build- email [email protected]. currently has one full-time and one part-time one of the main bases for referrals. There are two ing, gross $299K. (603) 516-0322 or www. associate. Excellent opportunity for growth and spaces connected together being offered (one ~429 newenglandpracticetransitions.com. CBITE.COM and cbitedds.com dental articula- long-term security. Requirements: Experienced sq. ft., the other ~165 sq. ft.). Please direct all in- Vermont: New England Practice Transitions— tors and dental impression trays. Cbite.com has DDS/DMD license or license-eligible to practice quiries to Dr. Jeffrey Wager, MD, at jeffrey.wager The best choice for sellers and buyers. For been providing superior quality dental articula- in MA with excellent clinical and communica- @apeironpartners.com. information about our services or practice list- tors for many years. Cbitedds.com has innovated tion skills. Send CV with contact information to ings, please contact us at (888) 888-6506 or dental impression trays for dental implants. Visit [email protected]. CAPE COD—HYANNIS. Recently renovated fi rst- www.newenglandpracticetransitions.com. us today at cbite.com and cbitedds.com. level offi ce, 1,450 sq. ft., turnkey. Four operato- DOVER PROFESSIONAL BUILDING, LLC (“DPB”) ries, all plumbed, two bathrooms, business and DENTAL OFFICE FOR RENT—Great location. JOB OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE is seeking to employ an orthodontist in a new private offi ce, wheelchair accessible, darkroom, Two dental operatories available for rent in DENTIST—BRIGHT DENTAL, dba Friendly Den- orthodontic practice in its downtown Dover Mas- storage, ample parking. Lower-level 1,200-sq.- brownstone on Beacon Street, Washington tal of Worcester, has a position for a dentist to sachusetts building. DPB is the only professional ft. kitchen, large conference room, and storage. Square, Brookline. Window view looking onto practice general dentistry in our state-of-the-art building in the town of Dover. DPB’s main tenant Bonus rental option: Can be combined if desired Beacon Street. Available part-time or full-time. multispecialty practice. Must have dental de- is Mai T. Phan, DMD, PC, one of two dentists serv- with adjoining 1,600 sq. ft. for a total of 4,250 Easy access via car or public transportation. gree from accredited dental program and valid ing the town of Dover, and would be one of the sq. ft. Previously occupied as medical clinic with Call (617) 566-5364. Massachusetts license, plus one to two years main bases for referrals. Please direct all inquiries six treatment rooms, two bathrooms, business and of clinical training or experience in periodontal to Dr. Jeffrey Wager, MD, at jeffrey.wager private offi ce. Must see. Contact Sta-Just, LLC, at OFFICE SPACE—Concord Woods Dental/Medical procedures, endodontic treatment (root canal), @apeironpartners.com. (508) 364-7200. building in Concord, Massachusetts. 1,502-sq.- and oral surgical procedures, as well as expe- ft. condominium to rent or buy. Ample parking. rience working with both adults and children. GROWING PROGRESSIVE PEDIATRIC offi ce DENTAL/ORTHO SPACE AVAILABLE ON CT/MA Low condo fees. Call (617) 926-1097. For complete description of the position, go to is looking for an individual to join our team. LINE—Orthodontic offi ce space available for rent or friendlydentaloffi ce.net. Qualifi ed candi- Practice is located 40 minutes west of Boston. purchase. Owner occupied. Approximately 800 sq. ft. BRIDGEPORT—FOR SALE: Gorgeous new of- dates should fax resumes to the attention of Candidate must possess great clinical and peo- Three chairs, mobile units, Panorex/intraoral included. fi ce in very busy plaza on major thoroughfare. Dr. Bashar Zyoud at (508) 302-0272. ple skills. Compensation based on experience Free parking. Winding ortho patients down. Great Fully digital with eight equipped operatories. and successful completion of reference check. potential. One hour from Boston (reverse commute). Acquire hundreds of new patients a month LOOKING FOR AN ASSOCIATE two days a week. Compensation can range between 35 and Great opportunity in growing community for special- from this premium location. Save the head- Position is in Worcester Central area. If inter- 40 percent of collections with a minimum base ist. Please call (781) 444-8282. aches of building yourself. You must see this ested, contact me at [email protected]. guaranteed. Please email resume or questions to offi ce! Call David at (847) 312-0361. [email protected].

MDS Connection March - April 2012 TO YOUR HEALTH

SERVICES SINCE 1981, leaders in the Northeast, Jim SELLERS—If you are considering the sale of Your First Meeting Kasper Associates, LLC—Specialists in valuation your dental practice, we offer more than 25 and sale of dental practices. Practices available years of dental experience to provide you with Part 1 South Shore, Worcester County, MetroWest, confi dential expert advice. We work closely with Berkshires, Springfi eld, New Hampshire, Maine, you, the seller, and your professional advisors With many different recovery meetings Vermont, Connecticut, and New York also. All in- to help mediate a transaction that makes good out there to choose from, the Dentist quiries confi dential. Call (603) 355-2260 or visit common sense while keeping professional fees www.jimkasper.com. as reasonable as possible. We take pride in the Health & Wellness Committee would fact that we have never had to advertise a prac- like to suggest that your fi rst meeting STARTING A PRACTICE or adding an associate? tice in order to sell it. We have sold some of the be at one of our Monday or Thursday Have your offi ce staffed and insurances creden- premier practices in the Greater Boston area and night professional sessions. These tialed before you open your doors without all we look forward to helping you. Please contact the stress! Credentialing and recruiting services Arthur B. Gordon, Northeast Dental Consulting, are gatherings exclusively designed available to start-ups by a seasoned recruiter and Ltd., at (978) 774-2400. Fax: (978) 750-1444. for dentists and doctors who (might) practice management professional. Contact us at Email: [email protected]. have an alcohol or other drug (AOD) [email protected]. problem or a “dual diagnosis” (AOD DENTAL PRACTICE MANAGEMENT—For free. BUYERS—We offer more than 25 years of den- Highly successful retired dentist with more than plus mental health issues). tal experience in the Greater Boston area to pro- 30 years of experience; established profi table We all remember how scary it was to come to our fi rst meeting. You vide you with confi dential professional advice to practices in New York and Boston. Now visu- may disagree, but we believe that coming to a meeting is a real act of help locate and fi nance the proper practice for ally disabled, wants to offer expertise and help you, the buyer. We will guide you and the seller in creating and managing highly profi table courage. Newcomers are often worried that when they come to one of through the entire process, helping to structure and ethically successful dental practices. I of- our meetings, that their name will be put on a list, that we will report a transition that makes sense. Because a prac- fer my expertise for however long it may be them to the Board of Registration in Dentistry, that people will call to tice worth buying should not have to be adver- necessary to jump-start your practice. Please monitor them, or that rigid religious beliefs will be shoved down their tised, we have never had to advertise a practice. email [email protected], and put We make every attempt to show you only those “Dentistry” in the subject line so I don’t delete throats. None of that will happen. If you leave one of our meetings and practices that may be of interest to you, and all it as spam. Call cell at (781) 883-1410. I require never come back, we will miss you, of course, but how you choose to fees are paid by the seller. Please contact Arthur no payment, merely the sense of accomplish- approach recovery is your own business. B. Gordon, Northeast Dental Consulting, Ltd., at ment. You may have additional concerns. You might be curious to know (978) 774-2400. Fax: (978) 750-1444. Email: [email protected]. how things in your life got so out of control. You might be fearful that you will permanently lose your license to practice dentistry. You might TAX PLANNING AND PREPARATION—Ex- be facing legal problems, perhaps even jail time. If you are like most of perienced and affordable CPA, tax planning us when we fi rst started coming around, your personal affairs might and preparation services for dentists. Gordon W. Ulen, CPA; 10 Liberty Street, Danvers MA be in disarray. Your spouse/partner, family, friends, and colleagues 01923. Call (978) 777-5000, ext. 111. may have given up on you. Maybe you are physically or emotionally ill. Perfect—You’ve come to the right place. All of your questions will 11 be answered in time. And at least you can take heart that you are no Dental Educators Evaluate Their Teaching longer alone. Be assured that whatever is going on with you, whatever you Styles at Boston Pilot Group Event have done, however hopeless things may appear, and no matter how The Greater Boston Pilot Group hosted “Teaching Styles to Produce Smiles: confused or angry you might feel, the Dentist Health & Wellness Exploring and Identifying Your Teaching Technique” on Thursday, January 19, Committee can help. We’ve been there. At our meetings, you will listen 2012, in Boston. Dr. Raymond Comeau, director of the Harvard Extension to dentists and doctors like yourself who have had the same problems School’s Graduate Management Program, led a workshop for more than 50 you have, who have remained clean and sober for many years, and dental school faculty members to help them improve the effectiveness of their who have learned the skills to live happy and fulfi lling lives. We can teaching techniques. The event was sponsored by the Greater Boston Pilot teach these skills to you. Keep coming to our meetings, keep an open Group and Colgate. To fi nd out how you can become involved with planning mind, keep away from the drugs and/or alcohol (yes, we can give you events in Boston with the Greater Boston Pilot Group, please contact Lisa some tips on how to do that, as well), and things will improve. It may Davis at [email protected] or (800) 342-8747, ext. 207. be hard to believe, but if you follow a few simple suggestions, we can pretty much guarantee that your life will get better. Nothing you have done is so shocking or horrible that we haven’t heard or discussed at meetings before—or even done ourselves. So, you have received directions to one of our meetings by calling (800) 468-2004 or visiting www.cdad.org, and you fi nd yourself with your hand on the doorknob of the meeting room. What now? Next issue: Your First Meeting (Part 2)

Dentist Health & Wellness Committee 24-Hour Helpline: (800) 468-2004 Conﬁ dential correspondence: Dentist Health & Wellness Committee P.O. Box 716, Andover, MA 01810 From left: Greater Boston Pilot Group members Drs. Frank Schiano, Romesh Nalliah, David www.cdad.org Kim, and Joseph Guarino ﬂ ank speaker Dr. Raymond Comeau (second from right), at the “Teaching Styles to Produce Smiles” workshop.

MDS Connection www.massdental.org Massachusetts Dental Society PRSRT STD Two Willow Street, Suite 200, Southborough, MA 01745-1027 US POSTAGE PAID (508) 480-9797 • (800) 342-8747 • Fax (508) 480-0002 WORCESTER MA www.massdental.org PERMIT NO. 2 Asked at Yankee Dental Congress Question 2012. Address service requested What Do You Like Most About Yankee?

Leo Flanagan, DDS Hingham “I’ve been coming to Yankee for 40 years. I like it better here [at the BCEC]; every- MDS Foundation Hosts Culinary Event thing is consolidated. Parking was always a problem at the Hynes. I don’t have to Join the MDS Foundation for Culinary worry about parking here—I can take the Sensations, an evening to benefi t the ferry from Hingham!” MDS Foundation. This unique event will feature interactive cooking stations with a multitude of palate tempta- tions. Mingle with dentists from your professional organization and partake in cooking demonstrations, while you enjoy wines from across the nation in a one-of-a-kind location. The proceeds from this event will help fund the MDS Foundation Milton Dines, DDS Expanding Access to Care Dental Boston Grants Program, which has awarded “I’ve been coming to Yankee for 37 years. $221,524 in grants for access programs It’s an opportunity to see new technology to nine organizations in Massachusetts and speak to the vendors, and meet friends in the past two years. The grant pro- and colleagues to share new ideas. And of gram focuses on the Foundation’s course, the continuing education.” primary goals of improving the oral health of all the citizens of Massachu- setts and increasing access to oral care MDS Enhances Find-a-Dentist for underserved populations in the state. Search for Members Culinary Sensations Every day, more than 1,200 consumers and professionals use the MDS Find-A-Dentist Date: Sunday, May 6, 2012 search. As a member benefi t, the MDS has Cost: $75 per person — guests welcome added new features to the search functional- Time: 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. ity. Now, you can include a professional profi le Location: Clarke Kitchen Design Showcase picture and links to your Facebook, Twitter, and 393 Fortune Boulevard, Milford, MA Linked-In websites. Google Maps have also been added so patients and colleagues can Please register by April 30, 2012. You can access the online registration form at fi nd your offi ce more easily. To utilize www.mdsfoundation.org. For more information, contact Ellen Factor, MDS assistant the new features, log in to your profi le at director of membership, at [email protected] or (800) 342-8747, ext. 228. www.massdental.org/fi nd-a-dentist.