Articulator Volume 30, Issue 1

Innovation 360º

Unleashing

Decision Making in a Crunch

Unlocking

Co-Editors

Amisha Singh, DDS; Allen Vean, DMD

Creative Manager

Little Red Swing • littleredswing.com

Managing Editor

Cara Stan

Printing

Dilley Printing

MDDS STANDING OFFICERS

President

Karen Foster, DDS

President-Elect

Susan Kutis, DDS

Treasurer Bryan Savage, DDS

Secretary Angelica Seto, DDS

The Articulator is published quarterly by the Metropolitan Denver Dental Society and distributed to MDDS members as a direct benefit of membership.

Editorial Policy

All statements of opinion and of supposed fact are published under the authority of the authors, including editorials, letters and book reviews. They are not to be accepted as the views and/or opinions of the MDDS.

The Articulator encourages letters to the editor, but reserves the right to edit and publish under the discretion of the editor.

Advertising Policy

MDDS reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to accept or reject advertising in its publications for any reasons including, but not limited to, materials which are offensive, defamatory or contrary to the best interests of MDDS. Advertiser represents and warrants the advertising is original; it does not infringe the copyright, trademark, service mark or proprietary rights of any other person; it does not invade the privacy rights of any person; and it is free from any libel, libelous or defamatory material. Advertiser agrees to indemnify and hold MDDS harmless from and against any breach of this warranty as well as any damages, expenses or costs (including

Caring for Our Colleagues: A Guide for Compassionate Action

KAREN FOSTER, DDS

I want to first say thank you for making the 2024 Rocky Mountain Dental Convention (RMDC) a success. Thank you to our professional team who year after year work to make the RMDC the best it can be. Thank you to our volunteers who spend hours planning and executing one of the best regional dental conventions in the nation. Especially, our 2024 Convention Co-Chairs, Dr. J.R. Franco and Dr. Amisha Singh. I also want to acknowledge and congratulate this year’s recipient of the Honus Maximus Award which was presented during RMDC to Dr. Brett Kessler. His contributions to MDDS, organized dentistry and the well-being of our colleagues are unparalleled.

As a profession, we continue to focus on mental health. I lost my associate to suicide seven years ago and have become an avid advocate for suicide prevention and champion for mental health in honor of his memory. I am proud to be an ADA Wellness Ambassador, a program born from a resolution adopted by the ADA House of Delegates, “prioritizing mental health for dentists.” I consistently field calls about once a month from a friend concerned about the well-being of one of their friends/employees/colleagues. I sympathize with the helpless feeling my colleagues face when concerned about someone. So, this article lays out options for what to do when you are worried.

First, trust your gut! Dental professionals are experiencing stress, burnout, and depression at an alarming rate. If you are concerned about someone it is crucial to act on that fear. Most times we spend more time with our co-workers than with our own families and we may be the first to recognize when things are off. Addressing these apprehensions can be intimidating, but learning more will help to reduce your reluctance to act.

What are the warning signs? According to, “7 Do’s and Don’ts When an Employee is at Risk of Self-harm” the warning signs are outlined below:1

1. Increased alcohol use

2. Lack of motivation

3. Lack of communication

4. Attendance issues

5. Increased

"Dental professionals are experiencing stress, burnout, and depression at an alarming rate. If you are concerned about someone it is crucial to act on that fear. "

Per the Mayo Clinic, additional warning signs include: "the person may talk about suicide; gather supplies-buy a gun or pills; withdraw; exhibit mood swings; talk or write about death, dying, violence; feel trapped or hopeless about a situation; increase drug or alcohol use; change routinesespecially eating and sleeping patterns; do risky or self-destructive things; give away belongings and get affairs in order; say final goodbyes; and develop personality changes.”2

“Ok, but now what? I feel like I need to check in with my friend, but how do I do that and what should I avoid?” There is a long-held myth that asking about suicide could plant the seed and cause the person to act. Again, this is a myth. “It’s better to take the risk and be vulnerable than to have someone suffer because you didn’t try.”3 To quote the Mayo Clinic again: “Asking about thoughts or feelings about suicide will not push a person into suicide. In fact, giving someone a chance to talk about feelings may reduce the person's risk of acting on those feelings.”2 Do not be afraid to ask questions. “I’m Really Worried About You” — How to Have a Conversation with a Colleague About Suicide,” has great suggestions for how to approach the conversation.3 The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention website also has helpful information about honest conversations and what to do if you feel someone is at risk.4 Overall, coming from a place of honesty and genuine concern is the best start. Do not be turned off if the conversation is not received well. Realize the person may be ashamed, guilty or embarrassed.2 Be supportive and understanding, do not place blame, listen closely and don’t interrupt.2 Your concern will shine through and let the person know there is someone in their corner who can be leaned on for support.

If you check in and find the person is in danger, reach out for professional help: 988 (Suicide and Crisis Lifeline) or 911. Do not leave them alone. Tell a family member or friend right away. From Cigna, a prudent reminder to put safety first, “As much as you want to keep the individual safe, never put yourself or others in danger. If it is possible to do so safely, try to remove any item that could be used for self-harm. Use a calm voice and manner to keep the situation as controlled as possible.”5

aggression or agitation

6. Changes in performance

7. A disheveled appearance

8. Inability to concentrate

PROFESSIONAL RESOURCES

If you find yourself in a position to support someone going through a rough time or in crisis, you are not on your own— numerous terrific resources are available.

• 988 (Suicide and Crisis Lifeline) or 911

• Colorado Concerned Dentists: 303-321-4445

• CDA Member Assistance Program: cdaonline.org/dentalprofessionals/wellness/

Do follow up! Make a plan. If the person is not in imminent danger, have a plan for continuous check-ins so they know you are a source of continued support. Urge them to seek treatment. Reassure them they can seek treatment and not jeopardize their professional license. Mayo Clinic resources state, “Someone who is thinking about suicide or is very depressed may not have the energy or motivation to find help. If the person does not want to see a doctor or mental health professional, you can suggest other sources for help. Support groups, crisis centers, and faith communities are good options. You can offer support and advice too—but remember that it is not your job to take the place of a mental health professional.”2

As MDDS/CDA members we have an incredible member benefit with the CDA Member Assistance Program. These resources can be accessed at cdaonline.org/dentalprofessionals/wellness/ and include no-cost counseling sessions as well as financial and legal assistance. In addition, Colorado Concerned Dentists can also be reached at 303-321-4445 day or night.

If the person does not have the energy to take the next steps you can offer to help research treatment options, make phone calls, go with them to appointments, help cover their practice or find coverage—whatever you are comfortable with. The to-do list to take care of ourselves can be very overwhelming. Helping with the burden of stepping away to concentrate on healing the healer is often the most beneficial support you can offer.

Finally, do not forget to get support for yourself. “If you talk with someone about their suicidal thinking, it is important for you to talk to someone else. Ideally, that person should have some experience dealing with challenging topics, so they can be supportive of you,”6

If you find yourself in a position to support someone going through a rough time or in crisis, you are not on your own—numerous terrific resources are available. I am personally available at any time if you need help. Thank you for trusting me as your MDDS President 2023-2024. Wishing you nothing but success and health in 2024.

KAREN FOSTER, DDS PRESIDENT, MDDS

REFERENCES

1. https://www.hrdive.com/news/7-dos-and-donts-when-an-employee-is-at-risk-for-self-harm/603208/

2. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/suicide/in-depth/suicide/art-20044707

3. https://accelerate.uofuhealth.utah.edu/resilience/i-m-really-worried-about-you-how-to-have-a-conversation-with-a-colleague-about-suicide

4. https://afsp.org/what-to-do-when-someone-is-at-risk/#have-an-honest-conversation

5. https://www.cigna.com/knowledge-center/suicide-warning-signs-what-to-say

6. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/promoting-hope-preventing-suicide/201201/5-dos-when-someone-says-im-suicidal

Help is On the Way

ALLEN VEAN, DMD

No one needs to remind us the workforce challenge is the number one issue facing our profession for the near future. The medical profession is facing the same issue. The American College of Healthcare Executives reports in their annual survey that staff shortages are at the top of their list for the coming year. We can look back and place the blame on Covid, retirements, burnout, stress and mental health issues. I could go on and on. However, that reminds me of a group of dentists sitting around and reliving the past. It does not help us go forward.

In December 2023, the ADA’s Health Policy Institute (HPI) released data from their Economic Outlook and Emerging Issues in Dentistry. The purpose of the survey was to measure the ongoing impact of COVID-19 and other emerging issues in the profession. Although the data was collected in the last part of December 2023, over three thousand of our colleagues participated over the course of the survey. Three core measures of the survey caught my attention. From March 2022 to December 2023, more than 33% of dentists continue to report they are actively recruiting hygienists and assistants. In the category of staff hiring, almost half (45.3%) of owner dentists were hiring dental assistants and thirty-two percent were hiring hygienists. But the most telling statistic was from December 2022 to December 2023, almost 95% of the respondents reported challenges in recruiting hygienists and 85% reported difficulty in recruiting assistants.

Online recruitment and word of mouth accounted for 50% of the new hires. Let us take this aspect a little further. In my experience with dental hygiene students, many of them were dental assistants who desired to complete further academic requirements and become hygienists. Indeed, they will enter a workforce where the demand far outstrips the supply due to the retirement of hygienists outnumbering the hygiene students graduating from accredited programs. Here is a thought. If your practice has an assistant who has been an asset to your office and has been accepted to a hygiene program, maybe

you should consider this person returning to your office after graduation. You could also consider helping this employee with some financial assistance for tuition and could keep in contact to offer support during their education. We should be taking advantage of this built-in feeder system. To have a previous employee return to your practice after continuing their dental education is a positive for your patients and an excellent reflection on your office culture.

In my opinion, the dental assistant shortage is more complicated. Our profession must compete with other industries for entry-level employees. Our responsibility is to provide a working environment and culture that will attract and retain new employees. I have heard instances where an assistant was made to clock out during non-busy times and then clock back in when patients arrive. And we wonder why it is difficult to keep staff and the turnover rate is high. Practices who have participated as a dental assisting extern site locations have an opportunity to recruit new employees. However, this is a two-way street. It is crucial we also provide mentorship to these students. They are not placed in a practice to perform menial tasks. I would encourage practices to reach out to these dental assisting programs. There may come a day when a student could become your next hygienist or even associate!

But as Robin Williams shouted in the classic scene from Mrs. Doubtfire, “Help is on the way.” There is a new accredited hygiene program, Colorado Mountain College, located in Edwards that will begin classes this summer with students graduating in 2026. I have also heard that three new programs are in the works along the front range. The CDA will be supporting SB24-010 which would enable hygienists to participate in a Compact Privilege allowing them to practice without having to satisfy burdensome and duplicative requirements. In addition, the CDA Workforce Task Force has completed its work. Their report will be presented to the House of Delegates in May 2024.

It is imperative to remember there are no short-term fixes or solutions. Patient safety and quality of care will always remain at the top of our priority list.

As always, thank you for your membership in organized dentistry. Your comments are always welcome.

ALLEN VEAN, DMD ARTICULATOR CO-EDITOR

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Topic: Grafting, the Quest for Vital Bone.

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Topic: Full Arch Digital Work-Flow.

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October 24th - Dr. Luciano Retana, Prosthodontist. Dallas, TX

Topic: Aesthetic Zone Considerations.

December 5th - Dr. Rick Ferguson, Dentist. Ft Lauderdale, FL

Topic: Digital Dentistry Applications in Implant Dentistry.

RMDC in Focus

Education, Innovation and Connections

The energy was electric at the 116th Rocky Mountain Dental Convention (RMDC), as attendees learned from some of the best in the industry, forged lasting connections, explored the latest products and advancements in the Expo Hall and had FUN! Thanks to the high caliber of local, national and international speakers, coupled with a focus on attendee experience, this regional meeting has a growing reputation in the West. We hope to see you in 2025 as RMDC returns to the Colorado Convention Center January 23-25.

INNOVATION 360:

Showcasing dentistry’s latest advancements.

JACK NGUYEN, MS, DDS

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jack Nguyen, MS, DDS, is a researcher, private practice clinician and patent recipient for the invention of the Microtray. He earned his Master’s degree and doctorate from the University of the Pacific in San Francisco, CA and continues to provide clinical care part-time. Now in his 14th year of practice, Dr. Nguyen enjoys engaging with leadership roles to advance education and healthcare innovation.

Welcome to the forefront of dental innovation! With a rebranded modern look that connects young dental professionals and experienced leaders, the 2024 Rocky Mountain Dental Convention (RMDC) has become the regional epicenter of dentistry’s latest advancements, bringing together industry pioneers, trailblazing companies, and visionary educational professionals eager to explore the latest frontiers in dental excellence.

RMDC has set the stage for a groundbreaking experience with its inaugural course – Innovation 360. This event brought together seven companies to showcase transformative products that push the boundaries of what’s possible in dentistry. The course aimed to explore practiceshaping trends that span dental products to offer patients, clinicians and dental practices. Each company was given 10 minutes to present their innovative products to a packed room of 200 engaged attendees. After each demonstration, audience members were quizzed on their product knowledge and awarded prizes including gift cards and product samples.

“The Rocky Mountain Dental Convention (RMDC) has become the regional epicenter of dentistry’s latest advancements...”

In case you missed the inaugural session of Innovation 360, here is a summary of the cutting-edge products presented:

REMastered Sleep specializes in airway health and introduced a novel product called REMplenish Myo-nozzle. Made of medical-grade silicon, the nozzle attaches to a drinking straw to exercise the tongue while drinking your favorite beverage. With improved tongue posture and better airflow, REMplenish can effectively reduce sleep apnea. By introducing advanced solutions, REMastered Sleep aims to contribute to better sleep quality and overall respiratory wellness for individuals looking to improve airway health.

PerioProtect, a company focused on gum therapy, recently introduced its latest product, IRx trays. The key features of IRx include a prescription custom tray that seals the gums enabling medication to debride below the gum line. This approach aims to optimize minimally invasive treatment outcomes while reducing the impact on the patient's comfort and overall experience during clinical care.

Cocofloss marked a significant transformation in its identity, rebranding as Cocolab. Cocolab introduced a new product package known as the Smile Care System. This comprehensive system includes three key products: Cocofloss, Cocobrush, and Cocoshine toothpaste using

nano-hydroxyapatite. The introduction of the Smile Care System reflects Cocolab's commitment to providing environmentally sustainable oral healthcare products.

Biolase, recognized as a global leader in dental lasers, introduced a next-level product known as the Waterlase Fractional Handpiece. This innovative laser technology extends beyond traditional dental applications, allowing dental professionals to perform skin resurfacing procedures. This FDA-approved handpiece leverages advanced laser technology to provide precise and controlled dermatological resurfacing, offering dental professionals a versatile tool for aesthetic and therapeutic purposes. Biolase's Waterlase Fractional Handpiece represents a leap into the realm of skin resurfacing, showcasing the company's expertise in dental laser technology.

Dr. Jen Natural is a dental company offering Super Paste, which features a significant step in toothpaste formulation – it contains 10% nano-hydroxyapatite with sodium fluoride. By offering nano-hydroxyapatite toothpaste with a scientifically backed concentration of this clinically proven, remineralizing agent, Dr. Jen Natural positions itself as a provider of

modern oral care solutions, contributing to the maintenance and enhancement of caries-free oral health.

InnoBioSurg works in the field of dental implantology. During Innovation 360, they shared with the audience one of their new developments, the Magic Sinus Lifter, a specialized tool that improves the efficiency of sinus lift procedures. Used with the Crestal Membrane Control (CMC) technique, The Magic Sinus Lifter facilitates flapless sinus lifts for bone grafting. InnoBioSurg’s tools and techniques enhance the precision and outcomes of sinus lift procedures and dental implant placements.

Prosites is a comprehensive marketing and dental website company offering a range of services to dental practices. One of its recent developments is Prosites Reviews, a reputation management system designed to assist practices with managing multiple online review sources. Prosites Reviews enables dentists to actively engage with patient feedback, address concerns and leverage positive reviews to strengthen their online presence. The emphasis on reputation management reinforces a commitment to helping dentists build trust and credibility within their communities.

With a new line-up of game-changing companies jockeying for next year’s Innovation 360, it was clear this platform offered dental professionals exposure to a diverse range of exciting dental products presented by bold innovators. It provided a unique opportunity for networking, learning and staying abreast of the latest trends in our dynamic profession. My warmest thanks go out to the participation of key industry players who contributed to the event's success in delivering a comprehensive exploration of innovative products shaping the future of dental healthcare.

Unlocking the Full Potential:

Laser Use for Hygienists in Colorado

JOY RASKIE, RDH

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ms. Joy Raskie is a Registered Dental Hygienist. She is the Director of Education and CEO at Advanced Dental Hygiene, a company that specializes in hands-on dental laser education.

The dental profession has witnessed remarkable advancements in recent years. In Colorado, there have been significant changes in dental regulations, expanding the scope of practice for dental hygienists and introducing exciting opportunities for enhancing patient care. This article is dedicated to shedding light on these changes, dispelling any lingering misconceptions, and providing an in-depth exploration of the extensive range of procedures that dental hygienists in Colorado can now perform using lasers.

THE EVOLUTION OF LASER USE

In 2015, Colorado's dental statute language was changed which imposed limitations on the use of lasers by dental hygienists, restricting their application solely to pocket disinfection.1 The rules specified that laser settings should preclude the removal of soft tissue. This was a significant restriction on the full utilization of laser technology, leaving dental hygienists craving more flexibility in their practice.

THE LASER REVOLUTION

A transformation occurred in 2018, driven by collaborative efforts from dental professionals and governing bodies. This transformation brought about a pivotal change in Colorado's dental law and rules concerning the use of lasers.2 The new rules represent a significant shift in the landscape of dental hygiene practice. Notably, the most groundbreaking change was the removal of language that limited hygienists to only using the laser for “pocket disinfection” and now reads “use a laser within the dental hygiene scope of practice,” a change that extends the range of procedures they can offer to their patients.2 This shift has opened the door to a broader scope of practice for dental hygienists and a wealth of opportunities to enhance patient care.

COMPREHENSIVE TRAINING REQUIREMENTS

Among the critical changes that have taken place is the requirement for dental hygienists to undergo comprehensive training before they can

use lasers in practice. The training is a mandatory component of laser use and consists of eight hours of instruction, including a hands-on component.2 Participants are also obligated to receive training specific to the laser device they intend to use. These stringent training requirements are in place to ensure that dental hygienists are well-prepared to operate lasers safely and effectively, upholding the highest standards of patient care.

PROCEDURES AT YOUR FINGERTIPS

With the recently gained flexibility to use lasers to their full extent, dental hygienists in Colorado now have a variety of laser procedures at their disposal.

Let's delve into some of the most common and impactful applications:

• Treating Lesions: Dental hygienists can effectively use lasers to treat cold sores, herpetic ulcers, canker sores and aphthous ulcers. This advancement minimizes patient discomfort and expedites the healing process.3-6

• Desensitizing Teeth: Laser technology is a potent tool for addressing tooth sensitivity. Dental hygienists can precisely target sensitive areas, providing patients with a more comfortable and pain-free experience.7,8

• Laser Bacterial Reduction (LBR): LBR is a cutting-edge technique that enables dental hygienists to reduce harmful bacteria in periodontal pockets, leading to improved oral health outcomes and enhanced overall patient well-being.9-11

• Laser Decontamination (LD)/ Laser Assisted Perio Therapy (LAPT): LD/LAPT represents an advanced approach to treating periodontal disease. The laser can be a precise bacterial hunter, reaching deep into periodontal pockets to eliminate anaerobic bacteria colonies that hide in the shadows.12-15 This targeted approach not only addresses the surface

but also gets to the root of the problem, significantly enhancing the chances of longterm periodontal health. But LAPT doesn't stop at removing bacteria; it’s also a catalyst for healing. The laser's energy stimulates the surrounding tissues, prompting them to repair and regenerate.16 As these tissues rejuvenate, they become healthier and more robust. With time, the once-deep pockets gradually become shallower, reducing the risk of recurring periodontal issues.12-15,17,18 It's a profound step towards achieving and maintaining optimal periodontal health.

• Photobiomodulation (PBM):

Dental hygienists can utilize lasers for photobiomodulation, a technique that stimulates tissue, reduces pain and decreases inflammation. One common application is TMJ pain treatment, offering relief to individuals experiencing jaw pain during lengthy appointments or due to chronic Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) conditions.19-22

Colorado's dynamic dental landscape is continually evolving, and dental regulations have adapted to accommodate these changes. With the ability to use lasers for a broad range of procedures, dental practices are poised to transform the role of the dental hygienist. However, it's imperative to recognize the importance of proper training to ensure the safe and effective use of lasers. If you're considering incorporating lasers into your practice, it's essential to invest in training and hands-on experience tailored to the specific procedures your team will be performing. This step will elevate the quality of patient care the practice can provide.

FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF REFERENCES, PLEASE SCAN THE QR CODE.

Unleashing the Power of Reflective Treatment Planning

Navigating complex cases, fostering adaptability and shaping future practitioners at CU Dental.

LAURA RAMSEY

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Laura Ramsey is the Communications and Content Manager at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine. Her professional experience has spanned many industries, but finding her place in the dental community has been especially rewarding as her dad and granddaddy were dentists.

Self-reflection can be one of the most meaningful components of continuous improvement as a dentist, and it starts in school.

The American Dental Association (ADA) states in the accreditation standards for predoctoral dental education programs that becoming a competent professional involves “reflection in daily practice for the benefit of the individuals and communities served.”

Students in their final year at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine (CU SDM) are learning its importance through a newly reimagined course called Treatment Planning and Case Presentation (TPCP). Cofacilitators Kunjan Kakar, DDS, MS, BDS, assistant professor and assistant director of the Advanced Standing International Student Program, and Amisha Singh, DDS, assistant professor and director of diversity programming, encourage interactive sessions where students present their cases for group discussion and collective learning.

Dr. Kakar said, “Self-reflection helps students improve not only their clinical skills, but it also helps them become better providers. They become more conscientious, they think more critically through the problems they encounter, and then they can use that information to improve their overall practice.”

THE ROLE OF REFLECTION IN DENTAL EDUCATION

In each TPCP class, one student presents a recent or current case using a formal presentation template to include de-identified information like dental, medical and social history, chief complaint, periodontal chart, oral pathology, relevant findings, consults (if applicable), and a timeline of dental treatment. The class engages in dynamic discussions, asking questions and providing critiques about the treatment plan. Faculty members contribute questions, enriching the discussion with diverse perspectives.

The final slide of every presentation poses two questions:

1. What did I learn?

2. What would I do differently?

“It’s more of an education in self-reflection and critical thinking than anything else,” Dr. Kakar explained. “It’s about taking everything you have learned in school and then integrating it into this class. And when students share what they learned, now the rest of their classmates benefit from that reflection too.” This teaching approach offers a holistic learning experience, departing from the typical lecture-based model to open students' minds and embrace critical thinking. It also helps students understand the importance of continuous improvement and collaborative learning in a professional environment. Dr. Singh said she learns something new in every TPCP class. “We designed this course so we can engage our students and make sure they are truly benefiting from it. We want students to walk out every single day and say, ‘This

was valuable. I learned something that I can use this afternoon in clinic, or next week on my ACTS rotation, or in six months after I graduate.’ And I think we’ve really done that.”

FROM THE CLASSROOM TO THE CLINIC

When CU SDM alum Cody DelReal, DDS, presented his case to the TPCP class, he emphasized the need for continuous analysis and flexibility in planning. “I had worked with this patient since my second year of dental school. They had a disease that attacked the salivary and lacrimal glands, which caused constant dry mouth and made them highly susceptible to caries. We had to go through extensive treatment planning, and we had to re-think our treatment plan as we saw lots of new cavities at every appointment.”

“This patient made me think outside the box,” he said. One of the most important things he learned from this case was how to set realistic expectations with the patient, even if the expectation is that the plan may change.

Now a full-time general dentist in Loveland, Colorado, Dr. DelReal said he is constantly re-evaluating his treatment plans based on any number of factors. “It’s important to consider things like how well a patient can keep up their oral hygiene and to remember that there are sometimes systemic issues that can limit the treatment plan you originally presented.”

He credits the TPCP course for instilling the importance of daily reflection into his practice.

RESEARCHING THE IMPACT OF REFLECTION

To better understand how reflection in the TPCP course prepares students to be well-rounded providers, Dr. Kakar and Dr. Singh teamed up with CU SDM Faculty Development Program Director Jennipher Murphy, MS Ed, to pilot a research study.

The study aims to identify and analyze themes in students’ responses to the selfreflection questions, “What did I learn?” and, “What would I do differently?” Over three years, 120 responses were collected. Now the research trio is conducting a thematic analysis, looking at the key takeaways from each response and categorizing them based on a series of topics that were developed prior to examining the data, including:

• the importance of medical history,

• the importance of patient communication,

• better clinical diagnosis and treatment planning,

• better integration with specialists,

• active listening to the patient’s chief complaint, and more.

“We want to see if we need to make any changes to the way we teach students in their first three years,” said Dr. Kakar. “If 90 percent of them come back and say communication was something they could have worked on, then is there something in our curriculum that we could adjust to improve communication skills and techniques? What if a considerable number of students say they could have done data gathering better? Then maybe we need to change the way we teach that.”

Dr. Kakar also emphasized the rapidly changing way in which students learn and communicate, on top of the ever-evolving landscape of dental technology and patient care. Each new cohort of students will bring new challenges and new opportunities for improvement.

The themes uncovered from this data can reveal endless insights. Dr. Kakar said, “It’s two-fold: We learn how students can improve as providers and we also learn how the school can modify curriculum and/or teaching methods to support that.”

The results of the research study will be presented in poster format at the American Dental Education Association (ADEA) Annual Meeting this year.

HOW TO INCORPORATE REFLECTION IN YOUR PRACTICE

Self-reflection can be an important part of professional development beyond the classroom as well. Dr. Singh shared, “Intentional reflective practice throughout our careers can help increase clinical excellence and fulfillment and engagement in our professional lives.”

Whether you are new to reflection or simply want to brush up on your skills, here are four ways you can begin to use reflection as a tool for continuous improvement in practice.

1. Case review sessions: Set aside dedicated time to review recent or challenging cases. By asking yourself what worked well and what could be improved, you will engage in constructive self-reflection on a regular basis. This method can be used individually or in a group or study club setting.

2. Peer discussions and study clubs: Creating or joining study clubs and engaging in constructive discussions with colleagues allows you to share experiences, seek advice and reflect on alternative approaches to various cases.

3. Patient feedback integration: How do you collect feedback from your patients? Listening to comments and critiques directly from the source not only enhances patient satisfaction but also provides valuable insights for professional growth. Intentional collection of this data and timely reflection may show themes or areas for improvement.

4. Continuing education courses: Actively participating in workshops, conferences and courses enables you to reflect on current practices, learn about advancements in your field and consider how to integrate new knowledge into your approach.

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Decision Making in a Crunch

STEVEN KARSH

For anyone who watches the NFL, we have seen a major shift in strategy as more teams go for it on 4th down like never before. This has to do with the ever-growing popularity of analytics. Up pops a graphic on the TV that says “go for it” when it’s 4th and 2 from the 42. Analytics are great; however, they have no way of incorporating the “human element” into the recommendation. Things such as the weather conditions at that exact moment. What has the “momentum” been over the past 5-10 minutes? Are all the starting (best) players on the field for the play? Is the game at home or on the road? How loud is the crowd noise? All these factors and many others play a part in the decision-making process, none of which can be factored into the graphic on TV that says, “go for it”.

So, what does this have to do with investing in the markets? Although we may think we know with great certainty that something is going to happen, what we don’t know is how people are going to react to the predicted situation. Experience plays a big role in long-term success.

Investing is the same way, the more experience you have, typically the better the outcome. Although we have heard the caveat, past performance does not guarantee future results, knowing what has happened in the past surely helps us to plan for the future. Wars in Ukraine and Israel, high inflation, a 50/50 split in the electorate, an inverted yield curve, the explosion of Artificial Intelligence (AI), an upcoming election; events like these have all happened in the past at one time or another but how do they affect the financial markets? The answer is that it doesn’t matter as they are short-term in nature and shouldn’t affect your long-term outcome if you have a plan. That doesn’t mean you can’t make short-term adjustments to the long-term plan as opportunities present themselves, but it always comes down to calculated risks.

Long-term success is often made up by short-term decisions. Below are a variety of examples of how having a long-term plan and not succumbing to short-term whims will most likely lead to more successful outcomes.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mr. Karsh is a Senior Advisor at Ulrich Consulting Group, an SEC independent registered investment advisor. For more information you may contact Steve at stevek@ulrichcg.com or at 720-990-4983.

RETURN CHASERS AND MARKET TIMERS (SHORT-TERM)

VS. DIVERSIFIED INVESTOR (LONG-TERM)

The Asset Class Returns chart illustrates why no matter the circumstances driving the markets, prudence calls for making a long-term plan:

1. Know your risk tolerance

2. Set realistic return goals

3. Periodically rebalance your portfolio and most importantly

4. STICK TO THE PLAN. Consistently predicting which investments will be the best from year to year or when to get out of the market and jump back in is next to impossible with any success.

ASSET CLASS RETURNS BY CALENDAR YEAR

The white “Asset Allocation” box in the graphic shows how a diversified portfolio (with an allocation to each of the asset classes) results in more consistent returns with below-average risk.

RETURN CHASING DOES NOT WORK

Many investors like to pile into what has generated the strongest investment returns, expecting the trend to continue. However, the information below shows how investing in what did best has resulted in very sub-par performance compared to being diversified across many asset classes from year to year.

The table Return Comparison table compares a typical “Return Chaser,” who invested 100% of their assets each year in the asset class that did best the previous year and repeated the process annually for 15 years to the “Diversified Investor” who each year allocated assets across all nine asset classes listed in the above chart (the White Asset Allocation Box).

RETURN COMPARISON (2009-2023)

Source: Barclays, Bloomberg, FactSet, MSCI, NAREIT, Russell, Standard & Poor’s, J.P. Morgan Asset Management. (1)

For the 15 years ending in 2023, the patient, “Diversified Investor” earned 73% more money than the Return Chaser. It is important to note the Diversified Investor rebalanced the portfolio back to the target allocation at the beginning of each year. Systematic rebalancing has been shown to result in better performance over time, so the investor isn’t underweighted to those asset classes that recover after a downturn (like equities in Q1-2020) or overweight to asset classes that have outperformed and tend to revert to longterm averages. Rebalancing also allows investors to bank gains and redeploy them into other asset classes and opportunities.

IMPACT OF BEING OUT OF THE MARKET

Impact of being out of the market

Not only do Return Chasers typically underperform, but so does the classic Market Timer—those who get in and out of the market periodically. The chart below compares starting with $10,000 and staying fully invested in the S&P 500 for 20 years (period ending December 31, 2022), versus missing the best 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60 days; the difference is staggering, especially the more the best days are missed.

GTR

Returns of the S&P 500 Performance of a $10,000 investment between January 1, 2003 and December 30, 2022 Plan to stay invested

Seven of the 10 best days occurred within two weeks of the 10 worst days

• Six of the seven best days occurred after the worst days

• The second worst day of 2020 March 12 was immediately followed by the second best day of the year

Losses hurt more than gains feel good. Market lows can result in emotional decision making.

Taking “control” by selling out of the market after the worst days is likely to result in missing the best days that follow. Investing for the long term in a well-diversified portfolio can result in a better retirement outcome.

Source:

The hypothetical performance calculations are shown for illustrative purposes only and are not meant to be representative of actual results while investing over the time periods shown. The hypothetical performance calculations are shown gross of fees. If fees were included, returns would be lower. Hypothetical performance returns reflect the reinvestment of all dividends. The hypothetical performance results have certain inherent limitations. Unlike an actual performance record, they do not reflect actual trading, liquidity constraints, fees and other costs. Also, since the trades have not actually been executed, the results may have under- or overcompensated for the impact of certain market factors such as lack of liquidity. Simulated trading programs in general are also subject to the fact that they are designed with the benefit of hindsight. Returns will fluctuate and an investment upon redemption may be worth more or less than its original value. Past performance is not indicative of future returns. An individual cannot invest directly in an index. Data as of December 31, 2022

STAYING INVESTED

When markets decline it is easy to get spooked and want to pull all your money out of the market. An investor starting 2020 with a 60% stock/40% bond portfolio who pulled all their money out during the pandemic would have locked in a 19.4% loss had they liquidated their portfolio on March 23, 2020, the day the stock market hit its low for the year. The prudent investor who remained patient and stayed fully invested would have recovered all the money lost and been rewarded with 14.1% gain for the year.

The chart to the right separates bull and bear markets since 1942. If you remain invested and stick to your long-term plan, chances are you will be much better off than trying to time the market. Over the last 75 years, bull markets have lasted much longer than bear markets. Again, patient investors are rewarded.

History of U.S. Bear & Bull Markets

This chart shows daily historical performance of the S&P 500 Index throughout the U.S. Bull and Bear Markets since 1942. We believe looking at the history of the market’s expansions and recessions helps to gain a fresh perspective on the benefits of investing for the long-term.

The average Bull Market period lasted 4.2 years with an average cumulative total return of 148.0%.

• The average Bear Market period lasted 11.1 months with an average cumulative loss of -31.7%.

BULL

From the lowest close reached after the market has fallen 20% or more, to the next market high.

BEAR

When the index closes at least 20% down from its previous high close, through the lowest close reached after it has fallen 20% or more.

Finally, when it comes to politics and elections, there are an abundance of predictions as to how markets may react depending on which party controls the White House. As the chart below indicates, predicting how markets

will perform is an exercise in futility. In the long term, there has not been a

CONCLUSION

Many factors have a direct impact on long-term portfolio returns, including valuations, inflation, Fed policy, interest rates, consumer spending and overall economic conditions. All these issues need to be considered, with none of

them viewed in isolation. For those contemplating making frequent shifts in their portfolios, be patient, have a plan and stick to it, history shows you should be rewarded in the end.

This article is intended for informational purposes only and nothing contained herein be construed as a recommendation. The information presented is believed to be from reliable sources, however, no liability is accepted for any inaccuracies. Past performance is no guarantee of future performance. Advisory services offered through Ulrich Investment Consultants, an investment adviser registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

Footnotes: (1) Large cap: S&P 500, Small cap: Russell 2000, EM Equity: MSCI EME, DM Equity: MSCI EAFE, Commodity: Bloomberg Commodity Index, High Yield: Bloomberg Barclays Global HY Index, Fixed Income: Bloomberg Barclays US Aggregate, REITs: NAREIT Equity REIT Index, Cash: Bloomberg Barclays 1-3m Treasury. The “Asset Allocation” portfolio assumes the following weights: 25% in the S&P 500, 10% in the Russell 2000, 15% in the MSCI EAFE, 5% in the MSCI EME, 25% in the Bloomberg Barclays US Aggregate, 5% in the Bloomberg Barclays 1-3m Treasury, 5% in the Bloomberg Barclays Global High Yield Index, 5% in the Bloomberg Commodity Index and 5% in the NAREIT Equity REIT Index. Balanced portfolio assumes annual rebalancing. Annualized (Ann.) return and volatility (Vol.) represents period of 12/31/04 – 12/31/19. Please see disclosure page at end for index definitions. All data represents total return for stated period. The “Asset Allocation” portfolio is for illustrative purposes only. Past performance is not indicative of future returns.

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How To Calculate Your EBITDA

We often get asked how to calculate the practice EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest Tax Depreciation and Amortization). Here is a simple guide to help you determine this for your practice.

Practice's Total Collections - Overhead - Dentist Compensation at FMV = EBITDA

If a practice's total collections are $1,200,000, and the overhead is $840,000, the net income equals $360,000. And if the doctor's compensation is $288,000 then the EBITDA is $72,000.

Practice's Total Collections are the total practice collections (not production).

Overhead typically includes staff wages, staff benefits, supplies, office expenses, staff contract labor, telephone, computers and IT services, postage, merchant services, advertising, uniforms, laundry, lab, rent, NNN or CAM, personal property tax, etc.

Operative Production is the cost of what you would pay an associate doctor to perform the operative production in the practice.

In our example, we take the practice’s total collections of $1,200,000 and subtract the practice overhead (this includes fixed and production expenses) of $840,000 to get a net of $360,000

Overhead does not include the following: owner's wages, associate wages, family wages, travel, auto, meals and entertainment, continuing education, professional memberships, or any other expense that a buyer would not have to assume to continue conducting business in the same manner.

Next, we subtract the cost of what you would pay an associate doctor to perform the operative production in the practice. So, if your hygiene production is 20% or $240,000 and your operative doctor production is 80% or $960,000 then you pay a doctor 30% of collections ($960,000*0.30) = $288,000

Take your net income less doctor wages to get your EBITDA | $360,000 - $288,000 = $72,000

(303)

We hope this example is helpful. Please reach out if you need an opinion of value or appraisal for your practice if you are considering selling in the next 1-5 years.

“I had a very large multi-doctor practice that Marie sold for me with the utmost confidentiality! This was most important to me as I had such a large staff and did not want to sell to corporate. Her company met and exceeded all my expectations, including what I thought my practice was worth, and I got over asking! Would not go with anyone else but Marie and CTC associates!”

Melvin Benson, D.D.S.

Marie Chatterley

Ryan Nolan

Help! We’ve had an Exposure

Best Practices for Post-Exposure Protocol in the Dental Office

ALYSSA ABERLE, MBA, RDH, CDIPC

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ms. Alyssa Aberle is certified in dental infection prevention and control and works with dental teams to provide annual OSHA and infection control training, audit preparation, and consulting to help implement better infection prevention practices for their patients. Ms. Aberle’s background as the Infection Control Coordinator for a large multisite community health center gives her expertise in implementing systems to efficiently provide safe care.

Preparation is key when (not if) your office has an exposure. If you’ve worked in dentistry for any amount of time, you probably know someone who has had an injury in the office. I’m guessing that injury didn’t happen at the slowest time of day or at a time convenient for the team. I’d also guess there was quite a bit of panic as your team tried to move patients around, figure out where all the paperwork was, and talk to the patient about going to the clinic with you. If any of this sounds familiar, you likely understand the importance of having protocols and systems in place ahead of time to help handle exposure incidents in your office.

There are many things to consider when creating an exposure control plan in your dental office. Creating written documents and protocols is more than checking the box on your legal requirements but allows your team to think through the systems in your practice and where the highest potential for injury exists. Implementing preventive measures such as safer needle devices, adequate sharps containers in more convenient locations for safer disposal, proper PPE during sterilization, and utilizing an ultrasonic instrument cleaner can all help prevent injuries in your practice. All these items should be outlined in your exposure control plan for effective team communication and training of new employees.

Despite our best preventive efforts and planning, exposure incidents still happen. Being prepared for an incident requires organization and planning. A “Grab & Go” packet is a centralized location with all the necessary post-exposure documentation that can be found quickly in the event of an incident and informs the employee and the patient of next steps. Having information readily available about the nearest clinic that can properly handle an occupational bloodborne pathogen exposure, information for the patient about the importance of the patient accompanying the employee to the clinic, and post exposure prophylaxis recommendations will help team members to stay calm and act quickly.

This March, MDDS kicks-off its OSHA Webinar Series to take a deeper dive into some common questions from dental practices. The first webinar in the series, “Best Practices for Post-Exposure Protocol in the Dental Office” will discuss how to prepare for exposure incidents and what to do when an incident occurs in your office. Whether your team has recently dealt with an exposure incident and you’re looking for ways to improve your processes, or if you want to prepare to ensure these incidents are handled properly in the future, this webinar is for you. Future webinars will focus on common OSHA & infection control violations, dental unit waterlines and sterilization process errors.

The OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Standard requires dental employers offer annual training for all employees who are at risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens. However, teams must take the information about exposure control, prevention, and preparation and customize it to their practice. Taking these general concepts and applying them in your practice setting can sometimes be challenging on top of managing all the other things your practice needs to accomplish. Having dedicated team members who are responsible for the various aspects of safety and allowing them time and resources to put systems in place, is critical for creating a safety culture. While this webinar, nor any combination of these webinars, meets the annual training requirements outlined in the OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Standard, we will be able to dig into specific compliance topics that continue to be a struggle for dental offices.

Read more about OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Standard and annual training requirements at cdaonline.org. Annual OSHA bloodborne pathogens training must be offered by the employer at no cost to the employee, during working hours, taught by a qualified expert, in a live and interactive format that allows for questions to be asked of the instructor in real time and must cover specific topics outlined in the OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Standard.

House of Delegates 2024

MOLLY PEREIRA, CDA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away…OK, it wasn’t that long ago, and it was probably just 100-200 miles west of the metro area…

It was a time where virtual communication only occurred in Star Wars movies and dentists from all over Colorado met in the mountains to have a three-day event packed with business meetings, CE, golf, group dinners and statewide networking. It was an annual tradition spanning decades.

What once was a sold-out event fell victim to technological conveniences, new generations, busier lifestyles, changing demographics, a pandemic and a shift in life priorities. Something had to be done to bring attendees back, regain relevance and restore the importance of organized dentistry.

Too dramatic? I can’t help it—I was born in the ’70s and therefore raised by Star Wars.

Tradition is hard to break, especially when that tradition comes with great memories and accomplishments. Some traditions are passed on year after year, some get modified, and others get questioned on if they’re still relevant.

Always in motion, the future is.

Over the past several years, the CDA has asked dentists who were unable to come to the Annual Session why they aren’t coming to the meeting. Here are the repeated answers we’ve received:

• It’s too far away; it’s too hard to get to.

• It’s too much time away from my practice.

• I have weekend family obligations I can’t miss.

• The mountain resort hotels have gotten too expensive.

• I work on Thursdays and Fridays and can’t be away from the office.

• I don’t need the CE—I can find CE without issue closer to home or online.

• June isn’t a good time for a meeting. I already have summer vacation plans/graduations/etc.

This year, we took all that feedback and we’re doing something different—really different.

The 2024 CDA Annual Session and House of Delegates will be:

• Conveniently off the I-25 corridor at the Westminster Marriott.

• A single-day event with the House of Delegates and plenty of networking and camaraderie (no CE will be offered).

• Free to attend for CDA delegates/alternate delegates with discounted hotel room rates for those needing lodging.

• On a Saturday, not a weekday.

• On May 4, 2024…also known as Star Wars day.

This year we decided to stop “trying” and start “doing.” We’re drastically changing the Annual Session format because we want to make this meeting available to more member dentists. If you are a CDA member, you are welcome to attend this meeting as a voting delegate or alternate delegate. No one is too young, old or inexperienced to attend this meeting. No matter your graduation date, practice type, geographic location, employment status or level of member involvement, YOU ARE INVITED AND ENCOURAGED TO ATTEND.

This is a one-day meeting called the House of Delegates. The meeting has an agenda of topics for discussion, debate and decision-making. The CDA is your organization; we represent YOU. With the

Do, or Do Not. There is No Try.

- Yoda

vast majority of dentists in the state as members, the CDA can accomplish things that a single person cannot. This is the meeting where you tell us what you need. This is the meeting where thoughtful discussion happens between dentists and a broad range of perspectives are represented. You don’t need prior experience. We will give you everything you need to be prepared.

Is the meeting all work and no play? Absolutely not. One of the most powerful parts of this event is that you can connect with dentists from all over Colorado. There will be plenty of mid-day networking time to meet new colleagues, catch up with friends and find like-minded dentists who truly understand the wins and challenges of practicing dentistry today. Sometimes it’s just nice to know that you’re not alone – and this meeting will prove that.

Finally, the bonus of this meeting is that we’re going to take it up a notch in fun. If you’re lucky enough to have your annual meeting on Star Wars Day, it’s your duty to embrace the opportunity. May the 4th be with you.

Register for the CDA Annual Session and House of Delegates at: cdaonline.org/annual-session.

Have questions about the meeting or being a delegate? Contact Shelly Fava, MDDS Executive Director, at director@mddsdentist.com, 303-957-3273, or the CDA at 303-740-6900.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Molly Pereira is the executive director of the Colorado Dental Association. She has served the CDA for the past 21 years in various roles including communications, government relations, event planning and access-to-care charitable programs.

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I am MDDS: Susan Somerset, DMD, Pharm D, MS

You are a first-generation college graduate—what influenced your decision to pursue multiple advanced degrees? My parents. I always had a desire to pursue a professional degree in healthcare. My mother suggested an undergraduate degree in pharmacy because it is usually one of the most challenging classes in healthcare education. She also figured I would be able to work while pursuing other degrees. It was great advice. My pharmacy education really taught me how to adjust for and to be comfortable managing medications in unconventional situations.

What drew you to the dental profession after working as a pharmacist? I wanted to work more directly with patients and be able to make a more immediate impact on their needs. I also had the long-term goal of making pharmacology less daunting for the dental profession.

How does your background in pharmacy affect your practice of dentistry? Working as a pharmacist in a hospital setting gave me the perspective of being able to flex when it comes to medication management. As a hospital pharmacist, you are called upon to help manage situations where the first few conventional options are not working. You need to be creative with medication management and various administration techniques to help the patients and your fellow colleagues. As a pharmacist, I was exposed to a wide variety of medical conditions and treatments that helped me to be more comfortable managing patients with complex medical histories.

What drew you to academia after working in public health and private practice? I have always loved the academic environment. Working with students is so much fun. I worked in teaching hospitals and found it to be a wonderful learning opportunity. I really like being able to combine my experience working in hospitals and in the pharmaceutical industry to help dental students become more comfortable working in an interdisciplinary environment and communicating with medical colleagues.

What advice would you give fellow dentists looking to change career paths within dentistry? If there is a person already doing what you hope to do, reach out to them. I saw Dr. Harold Crossley when he spoke in Delaware and reached out to him when he was speaking in Denver. He is a great resource and gave me an opportunity to speak during his presentation in Denver. He also provided sound and practical advice: “Seek out those who are genuinely interested in helping you reach your goals; they

will be your best advocates. If you do not find them, keep looking because these individuals are out there and want to help! It can be daunting, so do not be daunted.”

You spoke at the 2024 Rocky Mountain Dental Convention (RMDC) – what tips or advice would you give someone interested in speaking at a study club or local or national meetings?

I would start by developing a topic(s) that interests you and with which you are comfortable speaking. Reach out to local study groups, residency programs or other local meetings and ask to speak at an upcoming meeting event. The RMDC has an Emerging Speaker Series for those wanting to begin speaking. I would also recommend reaching out to other state dental associations and submitting a course description form. I have found many event organizers are looking for different speakers and are willing to speak with you.

MDDS CE & EVENT CALENDAR

MARCH 14

OSHA Series Webinar: “Help, We’ve had an Exposure!”: Best Practices for post-Exposure Protocol in the Dental Office

Alyssa Aberle, MBA, RDH, CDIPC Zoom Webinar

6:30pm – 7:30pm

APRIL 5

Chairside Assistant’s Role with Dental Implants

Dr. Brian Butler, Dr. Dennis Waguespack, Dr. Janie Boyesen

Mountain West Dental Institute

925 Lincoln St Unit B

Denver, CO 80203

8:00am – 12:30pm

APRIL 9

CPR & AED Training CPR Choice

Mountain West Dental Institute

925 Lincoln St Unit B Denver, CO 80203

6:00pm – 8:30pm

APRIL 19

Botulinum Toxins and Dermal Fillers Training, Level 1

American Academy of Facial Esthetics

Mountain West Dental Institute

925 Lincoln St Unit B Denver, CO 80203 8:00am – 5:00pm

APRIL 20

Frontline TMJ & Facial Pain Therapy, Level 1

American Academy of Facial Esthetics

Mountain West Dental Institute

925 Lincoln St Unit B Denver, CO 80203 8:00am – 12:00pm

MAY 3

Introduction to Implant Dentistry: Hands-on Placement with Models Dr. Michael Pruett

Mountain West Dental Institute 925 Lincoln St Unit B Denver, CO 80203 8:00am – 4:00pm

MAY 9

MDDS President’s Party Meow Wolf

1338 1st St Denver, CO 80204 5:30pm – 9:30pm

MAY 17 – 19

Occlusion in Everyday Dentistry

Dr. Kenneth Peters, Dr. Dan Selner, Dr. Kyle Griffith

Mountain West Dental Institute 925 Lincoln St Unit B Denver, CO 80203 8:00am - 4:00pm

JUNE 7

Nitrous Oxide/Oxygen Administration Training

Dr. Jeffrey Young

Mountain West Dental Institute 925 Lincoln St Unit B Denver, CO 80203 8:00am – 4:00pm

JUNE 8

MDDS Zoobilee Friends & Family Event

Denver Zoo

2300 Steele St Denver, CO 80205 11:00am – 1:00pm

JUNE 20

OSHA Series Webinar: The Top 10 Most Common OSHA & infection

Control Violations in the Dental Practice

Alyssa Aberle, MBA, RDH, CDIPC

Zoom Webinar 6:30pm – 7:30pm

SEPTEMBER 12

OSHA Series Webinar: What’s in Your Water? Keeping Your Dental Unit Waterlines Safe for Your Patients

Alyssa Aberle, MBA, RDH, CDIPC Zoom Webinar 6:30pm – 7:30pm

NOVEMBER 14

OSHA Series Webinar: Mastering Instrument Reprocessing and Sterilization Protocols

Alyssa Aberle, MBA, RDH, CDIPC Zoom Webinar 6:30pm – 7:30pm

JOB

• Hiring full-time associate; M-T-W-TH (half day) and an optional 1 Sat a month

• Provide comprehensive dental care for the entire family, including exams, extractions, fillings, crowns, root canals, dental bonding and sealants

• New associate would be sole practitioner with experienced staff & established patient base

• Colorado license required

• Salary based on experience and collections

• Potential for future practice acquisition

• Located in beautiful Colorado Springs, minutes from the mountains, Garden of the Gods and Colorado Springs Airport

FOR SALE

General Dental Practice in Golden / Lakewood, CO (CO 2401). Great location! Collections of $468K. Occupies 2,550 sq ft & has 4 ops with room to add 2 more. Positioned for growth. Dr retiring. Contact 303-759-8425 or jed@adsprecise.com.

General Dental Practice in Southwest, CO (CO 2209). Collections of $995K Practice occupies 1,550 square feet and consists of 5 fully equipped operatories. Potential for an additional 1,600 sq ft adjacent to this office. Dr relocating. Price $600,000. For more info email: jed@adsprecise.com or call 303-759-8425.

Ortho Practice for Sale in Westminster/ Arvada/ Broomfield, CO Area (CO 2310). 30+ year established orthodontic practice for sale in the Westminster/ Arvada/ Broomfield Area of Colorado. Collections of $552K. Sales price $368K. Tech is up to date. Located in a professional building & occupies 2,651 sq ft with a 6-chair bay and 1 new patient exam room. Doctor is retiring. Listing #: CO 2310 For information email: jed@adsprecise.com or call 303-759-8425.

We have an established 30-year practice with a committed staff who has generally been in place since our inception. We are a single practice that is privately owned and operated. We are currently going through a transition period and need an associate in place to be the sole dentist in the practice. Our practice is located in an excellent central Colorado location that is easy for patients to find, secure parking and access the main entrance. The practice building is an appealing stand-alone structure with an open floor plan and contemporary décor. Many updates have been made to the practice building and business operations in the last 3 years. We will continue to invest in the business on an ongoing basis. We believe in treating our patients with care and respect and want our patients to know they can trust us—many have been with us for an extended period and often say they feel like family and friends with us. We are also near a military base and these families often choose our private care. We are looking forward to inviting a new dentist into our practice to be a key part of our team and our future. Contact judyjscouter@gmail.com for more information.

General Dental Practice for Sale in Grand Junction (CO 2307). Great opportunity to acquire a dental practice and building on the western slope. Collections $265K, Price $139K, 4 OPS (w/ room to expand). Building is also for sale with practice 2,500 sq ft. For more information, please call 303.759.8425 or email jed@adsprecise.com.

General Dental Practice for Sale on the Western Slope of Colorado (CO 2306). Great opportunity to acquire an established dental practice in Garfield County. Collections $1.8M, 6OPS. 2,500 sq ft. For more information, please call 303.759.8425 or email jed@adsprecise.com.

General Dental Practice in highly desirable area of Littleton (CO 2309). Two Locations. Collections $650K, Potential for $1M in collections w/advertising. 4 OPS, 1,500 sq ft. Lease. Price $375,000; Dr works 2 days/wk. in each office. (2 locations.) Doctor retiring. www,adsprecise.com, 303-759-8425, email: jed@adsprecise.com.

Beautiful OMS Practice in Boulder County, CO (CO 2128). Collections $861K, 4 ops w/ room to expand, 1,865 sq ft, sales price $399K. Don’t miss out! Established GP referral base & less $ than a startup Great Opportunity & Price! Excellent location, Dr. retiring. ADS Precise Transitions, 303-759-8425 or jed@adsprecise.com.

General Dental Practice for Sale in Colorado Springs (CO 2124). Great opportunity to acquire a well-established practice in a great location. Collections $600K, Price $300K (50% of Collections), 4 OPS (w/ room to expand), 1,500 sq ft. Dr. Retiring. Practice Building is also for sale with practice. For more information, please call 303-759-8425 or email jed@adsprecise.com.

Great Opportunity – 30+ year established orthodontic practice for sale in an excellent location of highly desirable Boulder County, Colorado (CO 2116). Collections of $500K. Sales price $199K (only 40% of production). Tech is up to date including an iTero Element imaging system. Located in a Dr.-owned 4-plex & occupies 1,400 sq ft with 4 chairs. Room for expansion. Doctor is retiring. For information email: jed@adsprecise.com or call 303-759-8425.

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