ODA Journal: January/ February 2023

Inside Front Cover

OkMOM Legacy Fund

DentaQuest

Endodontic Associates

Endodontic Practice Associates

Lewis Health Profession Services

MCNA OK Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust Suction Solutions University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry

THE OKLAHOMA DENTAL ASSOCIATION

JOURNAL (ISSN 0164-9442) is the official publication of the Oklahoma Dental Association and is published bimonthly by the Oklahoma Dental Association, 317 NE 13th Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, Phone: (405) 848-8873; (800) 876-8890. Fax: (405) 848-8875. Email: information@ okda.org. Annual subscription rate of $39 for ODA members is included in their annual membership dues.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to OKLAHOMA DENTAL ASSOCIATION JOURNAL, 317 NE 13th Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73104.

Periodical postage paid at Oklahoma City, OK and additional mailing offices.

Subscriptions: Rates for non-members are $56. Single copy rate is $18, payable in advance.

Reprints: of the Journal are available by contacting the ODA at (405) 848-8873, (800) 876-8890, editor@okda.org.

Opinions and statements expressed in the OKLAHOMA DENTAL ASSOCIATION JOURNAL are those of the author and are not necessarily those of the Oklahoma Dental Association. Neither the Editors nor the Oklahoma Dental Association are in any way responsible for the articles or views published in the OKLAHOMA DENTAL ASSOCIATION JOURNAL.

Copyright © 2022 Oklahoma Dental Association.

Practice Management: Three Ways to Qualify for the Employee Retention Credit

National Children's Dental Health Month

OkMOM 2023

Get Involved at the ODA

Board of Trustees Recap

Meet the New ODA Staff

CORD Luncheon

2023 ODA Annual Meeting

2023 ODA Annual Meeting CE Lineup

2023 ODA Annual Meeting Social Events

OkMOM Legacy Fund

OkMOM Legacy Fund Donors

ODA Component Presidents

The Tools You Need to Join the Fight

Join DENPAC in 2023

Dental Premiums Should be Spent on Patient Dental Care

ODA & DENPAC Legislative Reception

ODA JOURNAL STAFF

EDITOR

Mary Hamburg, DDS, MS

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Roberta A. Wright, DMD, MDSc, FACP

EDITORIAL BOARD MEMBERS

M. Edmund Braly, DDS, FACS, FAACS Daryn Lu, DDS Phoebe Vaughan, DDS

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR F. Lynn Means

DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS & EDUCATION

Stacy Yates

OFFICERS 2022-2023

PRESIDENT Robert Herman, DDS, MS president@okda.org

PRESIDENT-ELECT Paul Wood, DDS presidentelect@okda.org

VICE PRESIDENT Daryn Lu, DDS vicepresident@okda.org

SECRETARY/TREASURER

Nicole Nellis, DDS treasurer@okda.org

SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE Mitch Kramer, DDS speaker@okda.org

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Chris Fagan, DDS pastpresident@okda.org

ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

F. Lynn Means

DIRECTOR OF GOVERNANCE & FINANCE

Shelly Frantz

DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS & EDUCATION

Stacy Yates

DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP

Kylie Faherty

SPECIAL PROJECTS & COMMUNICATIONS

MANAGER

Apryl Awbrey

MEMBERSHP ENGAGMENT MANAGER

Ansley Jinkins

PARTNER RELATIONS MANAGER Anna Kernes Stay connected with the ODA!

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Visit the ODA’s online calendar at OKDA.ORG/CALENDAR for all upcoming meetings and events.

January 17

OUCOD Faculty Appreciation Happy Hour ODA Building 5:00 - 6:30 p.m.

January 20

OkMOM Steering Committee Zoom 7:30 a.m.

Council on Nominations ODA Building & Zoom 8:30 a.m.

ODA Rewards Committee ODA Building & Zoom 9:30 a.m.

Council on Membership & Membership Services ODA Building & Zoom 11:00 a.m.

Council on Dental Care ODA Building & Zoom 1:00 p.m.

Council on Dental Education & Public Information ODA Building & Zoom 2:30 p.m.

Annual Meeting Planning Committee ODA Building & Zoom 3:30 p.m.

Oklahoma County Dental Society Banquet Colcord Hotel 6:00 p.m.

January 22

OkMOM Volunteer Registration Closes

January 27

Tulsa County Dental Society CE Marriott Southern Hills 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

Council on Bylaws, Policy and Ethics ODA Building & Zoom 10:00 a.m.

DON'T FORGET

All Dental licenses and permits expired December 31, 2022! Visit www.ok.gov/dentistry TODAY for instructions on how to renew online or by mail.

February 3 & 4

OkMOM Heart of Oklahoma Expo Center in Shawnee

February 6 ODA Closed

February 10 Council on Governmental Affairs ODA Building & Zoom 9:00 a.m.

ODA/ OUCOD Studnets Pizza & Politics OUCOD 12:00 p.m. Board of Trustees ODA Building & Zoom 1:30 p.m.

February 17 Women in Dentistry Brunch Ambasador Hotel 10:00 a.m.

February 21

ODA & DENPAC Legislative Reception ODA Building 5:00-7:00 p.m.

YOUR MEMBERSHIP MATTERS!

2023

membership

3 EASY WAYS TO PAY PAYMENT PLANS

3 EASY WAYS TO PAY PAYMENT PLANS

AUTO-RENEWAL NOW AVAILABLE

AUTO-RENEWAL NOW AVAILABLE

• Online: Visit okda.org and pay your dues today.

• Online: Visit okda.org and pay your dues today.

• Check: Mail in your dues payment to 317 NE 13th Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73104

• Check: Mail in your dues payment to 317 NE 13th Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73104

• Phone: Contact the ODA’s Membership Team at 405.848.8873 for questions and dues payment over the phone.

• Phone: Contact the ODA’s Membership Team at 405.848.8873 for questions and dues payment over the phone.

• Installment plan options include two, four, six and twelve monthly payments and can be arranged by check or credit card.

• Installment plan options include two, four, six and twelve monthly payments and can be arranged by check or credit card.

• Select your payment plan online, or indicate your choice on your statement if renewing by check, or call your Membership Team to set up your plan over the phone.

• Select your payment plan online, or indicate your choice on your statement if renewing by check, or call your Membership Team to set up your plan over the phone.

• One-time or payment plan options available.

• One-time or payment plan options available.

• Email reminders before dues are charged, after with receipt, and when your credit card is going to expire.

• Email reminders before dues are charged, after with receipt, and when your credit card is going to expire.

• Select Auto-Renew on your statement or online during dues payment.

• Select Auto-Renew on your statement or online during dues payment.

www.okda.org/membership 405-848-8873

www.okda.org/membership 405-848-8873

2023

is just a click away!

membership is just a click away!

National Children's Dental Health Month BRUSH, FLOSS, SMILE

National Children’s Dental Health Month is celebrated every February.

Brought to the public by the ADA, the month-long national health observance brings together thousands of dedicated professionals, health care providers, and educators to promote the benefits of good oral health to children, their caregivers, teachers, and many others.

“I have always celebrated National Children’s Dental Health Month,” said James Mancini, D.M.D., chair of the Council on Advocacy for Access and Prevention as well as a Give Kids A Smile ambassador. “Oral health is so important for our youngest, and I feel it is my duty and privilege as a dentist to emphasize brushing, flossing, and other healthy habits so that children grow up to become healthy adults.”

Free posters — with English on the front and Spanish on the back — about National Children’s Dental Health Month are available to order on the National Children’s Dental Health Month website, ADA.org/ ncdhm.

Flyers can also be downloaded and printed.

In addition, for the first time, postcards can be purchased and are available in English and Spanish.

Additional materials, including a coloring page, word

search, crossword puzzle, and toothbrushing calendar are available for download on the website.

Nicole Lesny, a student from Columbia College in Chicago, designed the poster for this upcoming year’s observance.

“On a personal level, I love to smile with my teeth, [and] I think smiling with your teeth is beautiful,” Ms. Lesny said. “Everyone has a right to get access to clean and healthy teeth, empowering them with their smile.”

Copyright © 2023 American Dental Association. All rights reserved. Reprinted by permission.

Upcoming Continuing Education Opportunities

GUIDED BONE REGENERATION AND MUCOGINGIVAL SURGERY

PRESENTED BY: JAEWON KIM, DDS, PHD FEBRUARY 10, 2023

CREDITS: 4 HOURS

PRACTICE MANAGEMENT STUDY CLUB SESSIONS

PRESENTED BY: SHELLY SHORT, RDH, MS

SESSION I: FEB. 16, 2023 SESSION II: APRIL 13, 2023 CREDITS: 2 HOURS EACH, 4 TOTAL

CPR, ETHICS, OSHA, INFECTION CONTROL & OPIOIDS REFRESHER

PRESENTED BY: DUNN CUMBY, DDS, KIM GRAZIANO, RDH, MPH, MARY HAMBURG, DDS, MS, AND CPR FOR LIFE MARCH 10, 2023 CREDITS: 6 HOURS

ORAL PATHOLOGY REVIEW

(LOCATED ON THE OU-TULSA CAMPUS)

PRESENTED BY: RONNIE FARAM, DDS, AND KATHLEEN HIGGINS, DDS, MS MARCH 24, 2023 CREDITS: 3 HOURS

FUNDAMENTAL RESTORATIVE PRINCIPLES AND ALTERNATIVES FOR THE SIMPLE TO COMPLEX RESTORATIVE CASE

PRESENTED BY: MICHAEL C. FLING, DDS & JAMES C. KESSLER, DDS SESSION I: MARCH 31, 2023 SESSION II: MAY 12, 2023 CREDITS: 6 HOURS EACH, 12 TOTAL

For more information and to register, visit: dentistry.ouhsc.edu/CE

Leave Your Practice in Good Hands

Secure Your Legacy

ADA Practice Transitions make the process of selling your practice or hiring an associate more predictable and successful by matching based on a shared philosophy of care. Start your profile today at ADAPracticeTransitions.com.

Endodontic Practice Associates

Norman, Oklahoma

Serving the OKC Metro for 43 years - since 1977

Your patient’s experience is top priority

3D CBCT scanning for improved diagnosis

Complex endodontic cases welcomed

Complex and “heroic” teeth salvage Build-up and post & core placement available

Cutting edge instrumentation and disinfection

Zeiss microscopes used on every case

Specializing in finding 4+ canals in molars

Surgical and nonsurgical retreatment

General anesthesia and oral sedation

Open during pandemic shut-down

We pride ourselves in a trusted referral pattern that ensures your patient returns to you holding you in high regard - regardless of the reason for referral. We speak highly of you to your patient and reassure them they are in good hands in your care.

We value communication between you and our office. Give us a call to talk about anything. We are even happy to help you navigate through a difficult case in your chair.

Phone: 405.329.7936 1.800.238.5215 Fax: 405.329.1722

www.endodonticpracticeassociates.com

Dr. Spencer Hinckley and Dr. Percy Bolen

Are you interested in becoming more involved in your ODA? Are you interested in developing your leadership skills and representing your colleagues at the state level? Return this form with your dues or contact the ODA at information@okda.org or 405-848-8873 for more information.

Print Name:

Email Address: Phone Number:

Selectthearea(s)inwhichyouareinterestedinserving:

Board of Trustees: Is the administrative body of the Association and is comprised of the elected and appointed officers of the Association, delegates to the ADA, one trustee elected by each of the seven Components, and a new dentist trustee.

Annual Meeting Planning Committee: Coordinates all aspects of the ODA Annual Meeting, including the selection of scientific speakers and topics, procuring sponsorships and planning social functions.

Oklahoma Mission of Mercy (OkMOM) Planning Committee:

The event is divided into many areas, both clinical and non-clinical, with each area being coordinated by a “Lead” to oversee the planning and onsite execution of the event. All OkMOM Leads must be available for set up, tear down, and during both treatment days of the event.

Rewards Partners Committee:

Enhances ODA membership value by researching companies that offer discounts on a broad range of professional and personal products and services, exclusive to ODA members, while generating non-dues revenue for the ODA.

House of Delegates: Establishes all ODA policies not otherwise provided for in the Bylaws, elects the Speaker of the House and council members, confirms the appointments of the Secretary/Treasurer and the council chairs, adopts an annual budget and sets the membership dues. The House of Delegates meets annually and is comprised of the Board of Trustees, four officers from each Component, one delegate per fifteen members from each Component and four OUCOD dental students.

Council on Budget and Finance: Develops an annual budget for approval by the House of Delegates and oversees the annual audit.

Council on Bylaws, Policy and Ethics: Annually reviews the bylaws and all policies of the Association, as well as investigates, mediates, and adjudicates complaints regarding a member’s alleged non-compliance with the ADA’s Guidelines and Principles of Ethics and Code of Professional Conduct.

Council on Dental Care: Interacts with organizations concerned with the provision of dental health care, monitors dental manpower needs, develops programs to improve care availability in underserved areas, and maintains the ODA Mediation Review Program.

Council on Dental Education and Public Information: Conducts dental health education campaigns and programs to improve the public perception of dentistry and develops new initiatives for the ODA Journal and electronic communications.

Council on Governmental Affairs: Coordinates lobbying activities and maintains a “grassroots” program for effective communications for ODA members and their legislators, interacts with state and federal boards and agencies, and develops recommendations concerning rules, regulations, or legislation that affect the dental profession or the dental health of the public.

Council on Membership and Membership Services: Develops all membership recruitment and retention programs.

DENPAC Board of Directors:

Oversees the Oklahoma Dental Political Action Committee (DENPAC) which works to support the dental profession by making political contributions to dentistry-friendly candidates running for state-level elected office.

OK Dental Relief and Disaster Grant Program Board of Trustees: Oversees the OK Dental Relief and Disaster Grant Program, a charitable trust established by dentists to provide aid to dental professionals affected by natural disasters, physical disability, chemical dependence, or other hindering conditions.

Interested in serving as an officer of the Association? The Vice President and Speaker of the House of Delegates are elected positions. The Speaker serves three terms and the Vice President proceeds to the offices of Presidentelect and then President. Want to represent the ODA on the national level? The ODA has five elected Delegates and five elected Alternate Delegates on the American Dental Association House of Delegates, each of which serves fouryear terms.

The ODA Board of Trustees met on November 19 at the ODA building in Oklahoma City.

The Board of Trustees met in September and December to conduct regular business of the ODA. The Board adopted a motion to support the OU College of Dentistry 50th Anniversary Celebrations in the amount of $4,600.

The Board adopted a motion to support the Massachusetts Dental Care Providers for Better Dental Benefits Campaign in the amount of $20,000. This initiative imposes financial reporting rules for dental insurers in Massachusetts and requires them to devote at least 83 percent of the premiums they collect to patient care or rebate the difference. If passed, the precedent for other states to adopt similar legislation could be ground-breaking. The ODA intends to include similar legislation to it's agenda this session.

With the passage of SB 1337 and in an effort to partner with managed care companies to ensure the best outcomes for ODA members who are Medicaid providers, the Board rescinded current policy prohibiting the ODA from accepting sponsorships from Medicaid managed care companies.

The Board scheduled the 2024 ODA Annual Meeting for April 12-13 at the Omni Hotel and OKC Convention Center.

The Board adopted recommendations from the Investment Committee to reinvest a portion of reserve funds in CDs earning higher interest rates than the current money market fund.

Upon recommendation by the Council on Budget and Finance, the Board adopted the 2023 operating budget, including an increase in dues of $31. The budget will be submitted to the House of Delegates in April for ratification.

The Board voted to establish a review committee to evaluate any lobbyist contracted with the ODA and to develop and execute an evaluation annually. The committee shall consist of the president, executive director, chair of DENPAC, chair of the Council on Governmental Affairs, and others as appointed by the president.

The next meeting of the Board of Trustees is scheduled for February 10, 2023, at 1:30 p.m. at the ODA building in Oklahoma City. Any member with questions or concerns for the Board may contact their Component Trustee.

Dr. Doug Auld, Eastern District Trustee

Dr. Tamara Berg, ADA Delegate

Dr. Ed Braly, Central District Trustee

Dr. Matthew Bridges, Southwest District Trustee

Dr. Matthew Cohlmia, ADA Delegate

Dr. Colin Eliot, Northwest District Trustee

Dr. Chris Fagan, Past President

Dr. Tim Fagan, ADA Delegate

Dr. Edward Harroz, Oklahoma County Trustee

Dr. Robert Herman, President

Dr. Jandra Korb, Northern District Trustee

Dr. Mitch Kramer, Speaker of The House

Dr. Daryn Lu, Vice President

Dr. Nicole Nellis, Secretary/Treasurer

Dr. Lindsay Smith, Tulsa County Trustee

Dr. Mary Temple-Goins, Dr. Paul Wood, President- Elect Dr. Rieger Wood, ADA Delegate

MEET THE NEW ODA STAFF MEMBER

Anna Kernes Partner Relations Manager

Anna graduated from Mid-America Christian University with a bachelor’s degree in public relations and communications and a master’s degree in leadership. She previously worked as a public relations marketer with a focus on brand reputation management and social media. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with friends and family, being outside, cooking, and hanging out with her three dogs. She's excited about the opportunity to work at the ODA and with its members!

Sediment is building in your suction lines.

Properly applied enzymes only work on biologic material and won’t remove prophy paste, amalgam, and other dental materials that are accumulating.

Power Flush sediment from your suction lines.

Dental lines blocked with sediment, enzymes will not remove this debris

H o w w e P o w e r F l u s h y o u r s y s t e m :

1 . O u r s e l f c o n t a i n e d p a t e n t e d - p e n d i n g P o w e r F l u s h S y s t e m i s c o n n e c t e d t o i n s t a l l e d C a m - L o c k f i t t i n g s

2 . U n d e r g r o u n d s u c t i o n l i n e s a r e f l o o d e d w i t h o u r h o s p i t a l g r a d e Q u a t s a n i t i z i n g s o l u t i o n .

3 . T h e s o l u t i o n i s c i r c u l a t e d t h r o u g h t h e l i n e s u s i n g o u r c l o s e d c i r c u i t s y s t e m .

4 . T h e l i n e s a r e e v a c u a t e d a n d d r i e d

5 . T h e c i r c u l a t e d s o l u t i o n i s f i l t e r e d t o 2 0 m i c r o n s t o r e m o v e s e d i m e n t .

6 . T h e s a n i t i z e d l i q u i d i s d i s p o s e d o f o n - s i t e a f t e r s o l i d s / s e d i m e n t s a r e r e m o v e d f o r r e c y c l i n g v i a f e d e r a l a m a l g a m w a s t e s t a n d a r d s .

CONTINUING EDUCATION ODA ANNUAL MEETING

FRIDAY, APRIL 28, 2023

KATE GERMANO

More Than Just Tears or CupcakesUsing brain science to unlock your potential and strengthen your relationships.

1 CE Hour 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

DAVID

CLARK, DDS

The Epidemic of Cracked Teeth: New Science of Strong Teeth

3 CE Hours 9:30 AM -12:30 PM

21st Century Composites: Stop Layering and Start Injection Molding!

3 CE Hours 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM

KATHLEEN HIGGINS, DDS

What’s That White Lesion?

Course Presented by ODAA

2 CE Hours 9:30 AM -11:30 AM

NANCY MILLER, RDH

Power Off Biofilm

3 CE Hours 9:30 AM -12:30 PM

Calculated Hygiene: The Business Side

3 CE Hours 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM

SUSAN MCMAHON, DMD

A New Generation for Cosmetic Dentistry: Delivering the Selfie-Ready Smile.

3 CE Hours 9:30 AM -12:30 PM

Undetectable Anterior Composites with the 5 Minute Finish

3 CE Hours 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM (HANDS-ON)

ANTHONY “RICK” CARDOZA, DDS, D-ABFO

Dispelling the “CSI Effect” Myth: An Overview of Contemporary Forensic Dentistry

3.5 CE Hours 9:30 AM -1:00 PM

Dentistry’s Role in a Mass Disaster Scenario

3 CE Hours 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM

KIM GARAZIANO, RDH, MPH

Infection Control

Course Presented by ODAA

3 CE Hours 1:30 PM - 4:30 PM

SATURDAY, APRIL 29, 2023

KRISTA JONES,

DDS

Ethics and Professionalism in Oklahoma in 2023 [Breakfast & Learn]

2 CE Hours 7:30 AM - 9:00 AM

J. WILLIAM ROBBINS, DDS, MA

Global Diagnosis in the 21st Century

2.5 CE Hours 9:15 AM - 11:45 AM

Global Diagnosis and Digital Smile Design–A New Synergy

3 CE Hours 2:00 PM- 5:00 PM

TOM VIOLA, RPh, CCP

I Have Become…Comfortably Numb!

2.5 CE Hours 9:15 AM -11:45 AM

Waiting to Inhale?

3 CE Hours 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM

DAVID CLARK, DDS

Modern Monolithic Injection Molded Composite Dentistry: Concepts-Materials-Instruments-Techniques

2.5 CE Hours 9:15 AM -11:45 AM (HANDS-ON)

2.5 CE Hours 2:00 PM - 4:30 PM (HANDS-ON)

ED BRALY, DDS, FACD, FACS

Update on Opioids: Uses, Options, PMP, Best Practices, and Misadventures + Data on Oklahoma Dentists [Lunch & Learn]

2 CE Hours 11:45 AM -1:45 PM

DONNA F. WOOD, RDH, MS, PHD

Shining the Light on Inflammation Course Presented by OKDHA [Lunch & Learn]

2 CE Hours 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

ANTHONY “RICK” CARDOZA, DDS, D-ABFO

Twenty- First Century Laser-Assisted Dentistry

2.5 CE Hours 9:15 AM -11:45 AM

Twenty-First Century Laser-Assisted Dentistry: A Participation Workshop (HANDS-ON)

3 CE Hours 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Ticketed courses. Space is limited.

The ODA reserves the right to change/cancel courses prior to the Annual Meeting.

Anonymous Donors Come Forward to Inspire Others

Dr. Tim and Pamela Fagan have decided to come forward and make their names public in hope of inspiring others to join them in giving back and supporting the Oklahoma Mission of Mercy (OkMOM) through the OkMOM Legacy Fund.

The Oklahoma Mission of Mercy began in 2010, and since then, 17,381 patients have received more than $14.2 million in donated dental care. This two-day clinic is designed to meet the oral health needs of dental patients of all ages by providing free dental care to as many adults and children as time, volunteers, and supplies will allow.

“We are all just ordinary people who can do extraordinary things. This is going to help everybody continue to do an extraordinary thing because that's what the Mission of Mercy is."

MRS. PAMELA FAGAN

“We have been a part of OkMOM since its inception,” said Dr. Tim Fagan. “We have watched countless lives change through the work done at this event, which is one of the many reasons we have been led to give this gift. Our hope is that by making ourselves known, others will step forward to ensure Oklahomans receive care through OkMOM well into the future.”

In July of this year, Dr. and Mrs. Fagan anonymously approached the Oklahoma Dental Association and the Oklahoma Dental Foundation and gave their generous gift. Their donation was made as a dollar-for-dollar matching challenge, to be completed by June 30, 2023. This matching gift campaign will set the foundation for the OkMOM Legacy Fund and serve as the funding source for the 2025 OkMOM event and beyond.

“If this would motivate or inspire anyone to come forward and donate to this most worthy cause, it’s worth making ourselves known,” said Dr. Fagan.

“We are all just ordinary people who can do extraordinary things -- this is going to help everybody continue to do an extraordinary thing because that's what the Mission of Mercy is," said Mrs. Pamela Fagan.

Please consider joining us in this extraordinary cause by donating to the Legacy Fund and help change lives through the Oklahoma Mission of Mercy.

Visit OKDA.ORG/LEGACY-FUND to watch Dr. Tim and Pamela Fagan's personal message on why they chose OkMOM for their incredible gift.

TAMARA BERG, D.D.S. YUKON, OK

"I chose to give to the OkMOM LEGACY FUND to continue this amazing event that offers dental care to our fellow Oklahomans. This fund is setting up for the future of OkMOM to be dentistrun and funded; I am looking forward to that in our future years of OkMOM."

"I chose to give to the OkMOM LEGACY FUND because it's a great opportunity to help fellow Oklahomans with oral health and that is something that I am passionate about!"

RONALD

CONRAD CASLER, D.D.S. TULSA, OK

"I donated to the OkMOM LEGACY FUND immediately because I know that 100% of that donation goes to help those with very limited access to care. It has and will continue to change lives in the future."

"I want OkMOM to continue to flourish and provide high-quality care to all who need it, regardless of ability to pay. THE LEGACY FUND will allow this to continue without outside corporate interference and pressure."

"The annual OkMOM event is the crown jewel of Oklahoma Dentistry’s commitment to addressing the oral health needs of our community’s most underserved. OkMOM is the most visible and well-known statewide avenue of service to the less fortunate. Thousands have already been helped during past events; thousands more await us."

"OkMOM was one of the first dental related events I participated in during my time in undergrad. This event blew me away. I loved how the dental community came together to provide essential care to the people of Oklahoma. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for OkMOM."

MARY TEMPLE-GOINS, D.D.S. ARDMORE, OK

FARAM, D.D.S. OKLAHOMA CITY, OK

FRANK MIRANDA, D.D.S. OKLAHOMA CITY, OK

DOUGLAS AULD, D.D.S. MCALESTER, OK

THANK YOU TO THOSE WHO HAVE JOINED THE LEGACY

Dr. Jeffery Ahlert

Dr. Clay Anderson

Dr. Tabitha Arias

Dr. Douglas Auld

Dr. Victoria Ball

Dr. Rishu Batta

Dr. William Beasley

Dr. Justin Beasley

Dr. Kay Beavers

Dr. Tamara Berg

Dr. David Birdwell

Dr. Andrea Bowen Dr. Leon Bragg

Dr. Edmund and Cindy Braly

Dr. George & Linda Bridges

Dr. Matthew Bridges

Dr. Todd and Lori Bridges

Dr. Richard Brown Dr. Nathan Buckner

Dr. Brandon Burton

Dr. Carla Campbell

Dr. Kristen Campbell

Dr. Wuse Cara

Dr. Steven Carson

Dr. Mary Casey Kelly

Dr. Stephen Cash

Dr. Conrad Casler

Dr. Matthew Cohlmia

Dr. Raymond Cohlmia

Oklahoma Pierre Fauchard

Dr. Trung Tran

Dr. Brent Dobson

Dr. Gene Drake

Dr. Brian Drew

Dr. Colin Eliot

Dr. Heath Evans

Dr. Chris & Heather Fagan

Michael Fagan

Dr. Tim & Pamela Fagan

Dr. Ronald Faram

Dr. Twana Farley-Duncan

Dr. Joseph Feng

Dr. Mark Folks

Shelly & Travis Frantz

Dr. Rick Freeman

Dr. Mark Goodman

Dr. Shannon Griffin

Dr. Daniel Griffiths

Dr. Mark Hanstein

Dr. Richard Haught

Dr. Erin Heathcock

Dr. Robert Herman

Dr. Steven Hogg

Dr. Mathew Hookom

Dr. Brad Hoopes

Dr. Edward Harroz III

Dr. Courtney Johnson

Dr. Krista Jones

Dr. Janet Julian Dr. Carolyn Keyes

Dr. Jandra Korb

Dr. Mitchell & Janice Kramer Dr. Priyanka Kulkarni

Dr. Robert Lamb Dr. Sallie Lau

Dr. Larry Lavelett

Dr. Shannon Lewis Dr. Daryn Lu

Dr. David Marks

Dr. Mary Martin Dr. Garrick McAnear

Dr. Janna McIntosh

Dr. Glenn Mead

Lynn and Andy Means

Dr. Clint Metcalf

Dr. Robert Miracle

Dr. Frank Miranda

Miller-Mott College on Behalf of Stephanie Crawford

Melanie Miranda Shukla

Dr. Sonya Nabors

Dr. Nicole Nellis

Dr. Bob & Lisa Nowlin

Dr. Laura Ousley

Dr. Samuel Owens

Denta Quest

Dr. Chris Ray

Dr. Karen Reed

Salem Lutheran Church

Dr. Robert Schick

Dr. Jeff Shadid

Dr. Jack Sheets

Dr. Matt Shelton

Dr. Steffan Sigler

Dr. Donald Smith

Dr. Gregg Smith

Dr. Lindsay Smith

Dr. Adelaide Steed

Dr. Michael Steffen

Dr. Greg Stewart

Dr. Dan Storm

Dr. Julie Storm

Dr. Jesse Storts

Dr. Steven Sullivan

Dr. Jennifer Teale

Dr. Mary Temple-Goins

Dr. Leslie Tevebaugh

Bootsey Torchia

Dr. Shyler Vincent

Dr. Walter Scott Waugh

Dr. William Weber

Dr. Jay Lynn White

Dr. Susan Whiteneck

Dr. Dan & Shannon Wilguess

John Wilguess

Dr. Karen Willhoite

Dr. Noel Williams

Dr. Brian Wilson

Dr. Jufang Wong

Dr. Paul Wood

Dr. Rieger & Donna Wood

Dr. Donal Woodward

Dr. Craig Wooten

Dr. Trent Yadon

Dr. Kendra Yandell

Component

Newly Elected Presidents

President Highlight

As the youngest of eight children, Dr Spurlock learned the value of hard work, integrity, and loving others well. A big family with a variety of personalities offered her a unique perspective on human nature and an understanding that working together to achieve a common goal is much easier than doing it alone Dr Spurlock passionately believes in a life of service and commitment to her community, team, patients, and family. Dr. Spurlock is grateful to serve alongside her practice partner and best friend, Dr. Jennifer Jenkins. They are both excited for the opportunity to unite, connect, and create positive changes for the members

In school, Dr. Bridges was heavily involved with ASDA and was blessed with the opportunity to serve as ASDA's Speaker of the House in his 4th year. He has continued to be involved with the ODA and has been Southwest President since 2018. "My involvement with the ODA has helped me develop professional relationships and find clinical mentors", Dr. Bridges said. Dr. Bridges intends to remain involved in the association's advocacy efforts to ensure that the interests of dentists and of patients are represented effectively.

After graduating from the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry, Dr Duncan then served three years in the Navy. Dr. Duncan started her own practice in Antlers, Oklahoma in 1994. Dr. Duncan joined the ODA because she knows she could not do it alone, especially in a county that, until the last 10 years, has only had one dentist "Being Eastern President will give me the opportunity to further expand my knowledge, to help new dentists, like my son and his classmates, and pave the way for the future of the ODA in our part of the state I want it to be about dentistry, plain and simple, helping people achieve a beautiful smile, establishing a dental home, and making sure that EVERY person in this state has access to care", Dr. Duncan said.

Matthew Bridges, DDS Southwest President

of the Central District

Sara Spurlock, DDS Central President

Twana Duncan, DDS Eastern President

After graduating from the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry, Dr Rogers completed her General Practice Residency at the Oklahoma City VA Health Care System After dedicating a year of work with the VA Healthcare system, in 2019, Dr. Rogers moved back to her hometown of Enid where she is an associate dentist at Enid Family Dental As Northwest President Dr Rogers is looking forward to providing community service, networking, and high-quality continuing education opportunities

Dr. Owens has always known that caring for others has brought him joy. As a son of two oral health care professionals, dentistry was an easy and natural fit. Upon graduation, Dr. Owens joined the ODA because he thought that is what you were just "supposed' to do. But he quickly realized it was a place for growth, leadership and community in the dentistry profession. "I always tell people that I may not know the answer or what to do but I can promise you effort and resilience", Dr. Owens said. He does not know what the future holds but he is extremely honored to be President of Tulsa County.

After practicing for several years in a suburb of Houston, Dr. Sorgen and his moved to Oklahoma in 2012 to be closer to family After moving he quickly real he needed a way to network and meet other dentists, and the Oklahoma Co Dental Society did just that As the OCDS President Dr Sorgen looks forwar leading the dental society onward by helping shape the benefits of membership, by helping new and experienced dentists understand their society's importan

Leadership in organized dentistry was a natural transition for Dr Korb following her years of service in various student organizations. Dr. Korb served as the youngest president of the ODA from 2008 - 2009 with the support of mentors like Dr. James Torchia. "Every district is unique, and more representation from our district is always welcomed Whether you've been out of school a few years or many, there is a place for you, too.", Says Dr. Korb. She will continue to serve the ODA and Northern District in any way she can, as they have given her so much over the years.

Sydney Rogers, DDS Northwest President

Sam Owens, DDS Tulsa County President

Brian Sorgen, DDS Oklahoma County President

A Provider Friendly Program for Oklahoma

For over 30 years, MCNA has been a leading dental benefits administrator with a focus on providing exceptional service for Medicaid and CHIP members. Founded by dentists, MCNA serves over 5 million children and adults nationwide.

Our approach emphasizes prevention and compassionate care through our robust provider networks. We are committed to partnering with the Oklahoma dental community to provide high-quality dental care and services that improve outcomes for all Medicaid enrollees should we be awarded a contract to become a dental plan for the SoonerSelect Dental Program in 2023.

MCNA’s mission to care includes:

• Preventive dental care in a dental home setting

• Positive engagement with members beginning at a very young age

• Innovative member outreach via our Oklahoma-based member advocate team

• Dedicated support for our network providers via our in-state provider relations team

• Clinical decisions made by licensed dentists and guided by Dr. Leon Bragg, former Chief Dental Officer for the Oklahoma Health Care Authority.

MCNA is pleased to welcome Oklahoma dentists to participate in our network and partner in our mission to care! We invite you to visit our website at www.mcnaOK.net to learn more about us and how to enroll.

Exclusive Savings FOR YOUR PRACTICE AND HOME

ADA Visa Credit Cards

Two cards. More points. The ADA® Visa® Business Rewards Card and the ADA® Preferred Rewards Visa Signature® Card. Enjoy great benefits and exceptional offers, plus no annual fee.1,2 Get both to help keep personal and business expenses separate, and maximize points for more rewards!

Credit Card Processing

Best Card provides credit card processing solutions for credit card payments processed in person, online, and over the phone. Thousands of dentists save an average of $3,736 per year on credit card processing fees.

Practice Financing

BMO Harris Bank provides customized financing solutions for practice acquisition/growth, new equipment investments and commercial real estate purchases. ADA Members receive special pricing, a 0.5% rate reduction. 3

Waiting Room TV

ADA TV is a user-friendly, high-tech entertainment and marketing system that empowers a dental practice to customize and stream content that will educate, entertain, and promote your services to patients on the TV located in your reception area. ADA Members save over $900 in setup and subscription fees.

See a complete list

Mortgages

Laurel Road’s simplified online mortgage platform helps you close fast and passes savings on to you. With a range of home financing options and low rates, their mortgages are designed to fit the needs of dentists like you. ADA Members can receive a 0.25% rate discount4 and up to 100% financing5 from Laurel Road!

Payroll

OnPay makes payroll easy, so dentists can focus on what they do best. Get full-service payroll and award-winning support. ADA Members save 50% or more compared to other payroll services, plus get the first month free.

1 For the ADA Business Rewards Card, the APR may vary and as of 11/1/2020, the variable APR for Purchases and Balance Transfers is 9.99% - 21.99% based on your

APR for Cash Advances is 25.99%. Cash Advance fee: 5% of each advance amount, $10 minimum. Convenience Check fee: 3% of each check amount, $5 minimum. Cash Equivalent fee: 5% of each cash amount, $20 minimum. Balance Transfer fee: 3% of each transfer amount, $5 minimum. There is a $2 minimum interest charge where interest is due. The annual fee is $0. Foreign Transaction fee: None. 2 For the Visa Signature Card, the 0% introductory APR applies to purchases and is valid for the first 15 billing cycles. The 0% introductory APR applies to balance transfers made within 30 days of account opening and is valid for the first 15 billing cycles. The introductory rate does not apply to cash advances. Thereafter, the APR may vary and as of 11/1/2020 the undiscounted variable APR for Purchases and Balance Transfers is 9.99% - 21.99% based on your creditworthiness. The variable APR for Cash Advances is 23.99%. Cash Advance fee: 4% of each advance amount, $10 minimum. Convenience Check fee: 3% of each check amount, $5 minimum. Cash Equivalent fee: 4% of each cash amount, $20 minimum. Balance Transfer fee: 3% of each transfer amount, $5 minimum. There is a $2 minimum interest charge where interest is due. The annual fee is $0. Foreign Transaction fee: None. We apply your minimum payment to balances with lower APRs first, including promotional APRs. Amounts paid over the minimum payment will be applied in the order of highest to lowest APR balances. 3 0.5% rate reduction applies to aggregate loans and guarantees up to $1MM; relationships over $1,000,000 receive custom pricing. Contact a BMO Harris Banker for more details. 4The interest rate discount of 0.25% is offered for borrowers that are an active ADA member at the time of closing. This 0.25% interest rate discount cannot be combined with other offers. For Fixed-rate mortgages, the 0.25% rate discount is a permanent interest rate reduction that will be reflected in the Promissory Note interest rate. For adjustable-rate mortgages, the 0.25% rate discount will apply to the initial Fixed interest rate period and will be reflected in the maximum amount the interest rate can increase over the term of the loan, subject to the minimum interest rate that may be charged per the terms of the Promissory Note. 5100% financing is only available to interns, residents, fellows, doctors, clinical professors, researchers, or managing physicians with a current license and a degree of Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD), Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS). Only available when purchasing or refinancing with no cash out on a primary residence and loan amount does not exceed $750,000. Retired dentists are not eligible. Additional conditions and restrictions may apply.

LEGISLATIVE LOOP

Let's Do This!

Maximizing Dental Benefits for Your Patients

By: Lynn Means, ODA Executive Director

Hopefully you’ve heard the great news out of Massachusetts where they recently passed a law that established a *medical loss ratio for dental plans that will:

• Require dental plans to spend at least 83% of premium dollars on patient care rather than on administrative costs, marketing, and executive compensation.

• Require dental plans that do not meet the 83% minimum to refund the difference to covered individuals and groups.

• Require dental insurance companies to disclose administrative costs and other financial information annually.

• Specifically prevent dental insurance premium increases above the consumer price index without approval by the state.

• Authorize the Massachusetts Division of Insurance to approve or disapprove dental plan rates and block premium increases deemed to be excessive or unreasonable.

WE ARE RUNNING A SIMILAR BILL IN 2023 …… WHY?

• Requiring a higher portion of premium dollars to be spent on patient care can help reduce out-of-pocket costs for patients, making dental care more affordable and encouraging people who wouldn’t normally go to the dentist to get dental care.

• It will increase transparency and accountability in dental insurance. Greater transparency will ensure patients get the most value for premiums paid.

• Similar consumer protections are already in place for medical health insurance plans. Dental insurance plans should not be excluded.

HOW CAN YOU HELP GET THIS LAW PASSED IN OKLAHOMA?

1. If you didn't attened one of our recent (virtual) ODA Member Town Halls, please take time to watch the recording at okda.org/legislative-session.

2. Plan to attend the ODA / DENPAC Legislative Reception Tuesday, February 21 | 5:00 - 7:00 PM

ODA Building 317 NE 13th Street OKC, OK 73104

REGISTER AT OKDA.ORG/Advocacy

3. Serve as an ODA Action Team Leader

As an ODA Action Team Leader (ATL), you are asked to develop a personal relationship with your state representative and/or senator. Your own personal grassroots political activity should be as much a part of dentistry today as patient care, because whether we win or lose depends LARGELY on our effective grassroots political participation — YOUR active participation. Your input to legislators provides ODA’s lobbyists with the political support they need to be persuasive. With so many legislators and term limits, the ODA continuously has a lot of people to get to know. If you have an existing relationship with a state representative or senator (e.g. participate in a fundraiser, attend church together, Rotary, kids in the same school or knew each other in college or high school), please consider serving as his/ her ODA Action Team Leader!

Contact Lynn Means, lmeans@okda.org to volunteer or for more information!

4. Join DENPAC when paying your 2023 dues!

*A medical loss ratio is the portion of premium revenue that a health care insurance company spends on actual patient care for its customers.

STAY UP TO DATE

Visit okda.org/legislative-session to download materials and stay up to date on the latest information. We also encourage you to join the conversation in our members only Facebook group, facebook.com/groups/okdentaltalk.

The Tools You Need to Join the Fight

Your role in advocating for your profession, practice, and patients is vital in the legislative process. As your association, our goal is to equip you with as much information and rescources as possible in order for you to have important conversations with your colleagues, staff, patients, and most importantly, your legislators on the impact MLR will have on Oklahomans. On pages 28 you will find an op-ed by Dr. Lindsay Smith that appeared in the Tulsa World, and on page 29, you will find talking points. By visiting okda.org/legislative-session, you will find digital copies of these resources:

• Talking points

• How to find your legislators

• The bill language

• Updates on media coverage

• Poster to download and hang in your office

Join DENPAC in 2023

DENPAC is the political action committee of your ODA and supports dentistry-friendly statewide legislators. 100% of your DENPAC contribution (when made with a personal check or credit card) funds the campaigns of our friends in the state legislature – friends who support our issues and protect your business and the way you practice dentistry. Please help keep dentistry strong in Oklahoma by contributing to DENPAC when paying your 2023 dues.

WHY JOIN DENPAC

DENPAC is the political action committee of your Oklahoma Dental Association. DENPAC works hard to make political contributions to dentistry-friendly, state-level legislators. $50 of your DENPAC dues also goes toward ADPAC to support national campaigns. Currently, 20% of the ODA membership funds 99% of the ODA’s legislative and advocacy efforts.

HOW TO JOIN DENPAC

Contribute to DENPAC when paying your 2023 dues or contact the ODA today!

• Sample email to patients

• Sample social media content to share on your practice and personal pages

• Form to request wearable buttons for your staff

We will be adding more resources throughout the session and encourage you to visit okda.org/legislative-session often to find the latest materials.

2022 DENPAC Campaign Contributions

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

Nick Archer

Jeff Boatman

Trey Caldwell

Dean Davis

Jared Deck Collin Duel

Andy Fugate

John George Toni Hasenbeck

John Kane Jason Lowe T.J. Marti

Ryan Martinez

Cody Maynard

Charles McCall

Marcus McEntire Cyndi Munson

Cynthia Roe Chris Sneed Clay Staires

Amanda Swope Mark Tedford

John Waldron Tammy West

Jerry Alvord

Bill Coleman

Kay Floyd

Todd Gollihare

Grant Green

John Haste

Carri Hicks

Brent Howard

Julia Kirt

SENATE

Lonnie Paxton

Dana Prieto

Dave Rader

Paul Rosino

Ally Seifried

Jack Stewart

Kristen Thompson

Greg Treat

Tom Woods

John Michael Montgomery

Dental Premiums Should be Spent on Patient Dental Care

By: Dr. Lindsay Smith, ODA Trustee, ODA Council on Governmental Affairs Chair, and owner of a private practice in Tulsa

It seems intuitive that dental insurers would spend the money they collect in premiums on patient dental care. However, that is not always the case. Oklahoma lawmakers can — and should — fix this problem in the new legislative session.

Lawmakers can protect Oklahoma dental patients by passing legislation requiring that dental insurers spend at least 85% of patient premiums on patient care or refund the difference to patients. This law, known as Medical Loss Ratio, would increase transparency in dental insurance and help hold down both premiums and out-of-pocket costs for patients. Health insurance carriers in Oklahoma are already required to spend 80-85% of premiums on patient care, but there is no such standard for dental insurance.

Nearly half of American adults say it’s difficult to afford healthcare costs, and they are more likely to put off oral healthcare than any other type of care. As a dentist, I see this all the time, even with patients who have dental insurance. All too often I see patients postpone care altogether due to policy provisions within their dental plans. These include missing tooth clauses, waiting periods on major services, frequency limitations, and yearly maximums that in many cases have not changed since the 1980s. All of these "provisions" prohibit patients from receiving the care they need when they need it, causing more expensive and extensive treatment needs in the future. Requiring dental insurance companies to adhere to a medical loss ratio standard, just as health insurance companies in Oklahoma have already and have for several years, will allow patients to utilize their dental benefits they have worked so hard to acquire.

There are many ways to make dental insurance work better for patients, so they do not delay or avoid needed care. Simply requiring dental insurers to spend the money they collect in premiums on patient care may be one of the most powerful.

Available data indicates that around 25% of dental premium dollars are used by insurance companies to cover administrative costs, profits, and executive compensation, instead of being directed to patient care. When every dollar that is shifted away from providing care ends up boosting dental insurers’ profits, they have a powerful incentive to spend as little as possible on patient care. A law requiring them to spend at least 85% of premium dollars on patient care will lessen the incentive to deny paying for needed care.

Dental insurers will claim that they cannot possibly meet this standard and that as a result, they will be forced to leave the state. Oklahomans should not be fooled by this argument. Health insurers have remained profitable under similar standards, and they continue to increase their net income and dividends paid to shareholders. In addition, many dental insurers already meet or exceed this standard. We need a law to bring the others in line.

Skipping dental care can have serious consequences, not just for oral health but for overall health and wellbeing, with poor oral health linked to conditions such as strokes as well as poorer academic and employment outcomes. To avoid these outcomes, we must minimize cost barriers between patients and care.

Patients already know their dental insurance isn’t serving them well, which is why a bipartisan 72% of Massachusetts voters elected to adopt this policy in November. Oklahoma dental patients deserve the same protections. Our lawmakers have the power to make it happen, and they should do so without delay.

Scan with your phone’s camera to find the latest ODA resources and articles on MLR.

© Copyright 2023 Tulsa World, 315 S. Boulder Ave. Tulsa, OK 74103

This Op-Ed was published January 5th online in the Tulsa World and printed in the January 8th paper.

M A X I M I Z I N G

DENTAL BENEFITS FOR PATIENTS

What is MLR? MLR Legislation in 2023

The portion of insurance premium revenue that is spent on patient care rather than overhead is called the “Medical Loss Ratio” or MLR. All states have a minimum ratio for medical insurance but very few have a similar standard for dental insurance plans.

How does this affect my patients/practice?

(MLR) ensures a healthcare insurance company to spend a minimum percentage of patient premiums on claims, patient care, and healthcare quality for its customers. Available data indicates that between 25-40% of dental premium dollars are used by insurance companies to cover administrative costs, profits, and executive compensation, instead of being directed toward patient care. While medical insurance carriers in Oklahoma are required to spend at least 80-85% of patient premiums on healthcare, there is no equivalent standard for dental insurance. We want to change that with MLR legislation in 2023.

MLR legislation introduced this year will require dental insurance carriers in Oklahoma to spend at least 85% of premium dollars on patient care rather than on administrative costs, salaries, and profits.

MLR legislation will require dental insurance carriers in Oklahoma to spend at least 85% of premium dollars on patient care rather than on administrative costs, salaries, and profits.

If dental insurance companies spend less than 85% of patient premiums on actual dental care, they must refund the difference to covered individuals and groups

Setting a standard for Medical Loss Ratio means better dental benefits for patients It means more families will be empowered to seek the dental care they need MLR will increase transparency and accountability in dental insurance by requiring insurance carriers to disclose administrative costs and other financial information annually.

Ensuring transparency and value in dental insurance rates will help reduce out-of-pocket costs for dental patients, which will make access to dental care and procedures more affordable and encourage people who wouldn’t normally go to the dentist to get dental care.

Patient dollars should go to patient care, not to the profits of big dental insurance companies and their executives. For too long, multibillion-dollar dental insurance companies have lined their own pockets by taking advantage of patient premium dollars.

Grassroots Lobbying

The ODA works hard to advocate for you at the State Capitol, but we can’t do it alone! YOU are the key to our legislative success and play a vital role in the process. What YOU do at the local grassroots level affects what your ODA lobby team can do for you on a statewide grasstops level.

Please consider serving as an ODA Action Team Leader (ATL). Call the ODA today to volunteer and add your name to the growing list!

ADA Advocacy

CMS Establishes New Payment Code for Dental Surgeries in Hospital ORs

After the ADA and other stakeholders continued to press the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the agency has agreed to establish a new dental billing and payment arrangement to improve access for dental surgeries performed in hospital operating rooms. The Health Care Common Procedure Coding System code G0330 is applicable to facility services for dental rehabilitation procedures furnished to patients who require monitored anesthesia and use of an operating room. The new code is the result of an advocacy campaign spearheaded by the ADA, American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, and American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. The new dental code FAQ regarding dental treatment under general anesthesia at the hospital is available at okda.org/221201_newdentalcodefaqs.

Impacts on dentistry: The limitations in hospital OR access have been exacerbated by COVID-19, primarily affecting high-risk Medicaid and commercially insured patients who require an operating room setting when receiving extensive dental procedures due to their particular medical conditions. The new code will increase the facility fee for dental surgeries in hospitals from $200 to more than $1,700, which will in turn increase access.

CMS Expands Dental Coverage for Medically Necessary Conditions

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid released a final rule on November 1 that expanded dental coverage for Medicare beneficiaries with certain conditions deemed medically necessary. The expanded dental coverage went into effect January 1, 2023. CMS listened to many of the ADA’s suggestions on the draft rule in which the ADA told CMS it supported providing dental coverage for the following instances, all of which are included in the final rule:

• Reconstruction of a ridge when performed as a result of and at the same time as the surgical removal of a tumor.

• Stabilization or immobilization of teeth when done in connection with the reduction of a jaw fracture.

• Extraction of teeth to prepare the jaw for radiation treatment of neoplastic disease.

• Dental splints only when used in conjunction with medically necessary treatment of a medical condition.

• Dental services — including both examination and treatment — prior to cardiac valve replacement, valvuloplasty or organ transplant procedures.

Impacts on dentistry: The limitations in hospital OR access have been exacerbated by COVID-19, primarily affecting high-risk Medicaid and commercially insured patients who require an operating room setting when receiving extensive dental procedures due to their particular medical conditions. The new code will increase the facility fee for dental surgeries in hospitals from $200 to more than $1,700, which will in turn increase access.

ADA Recommendations to CMS on Medicaid and CHIP

In comments filed November 4 in response to a proposed rule from CMS, ADA President George R. Shepley, DDS, and Raymond A. Cohlmia, DDS, supported CMS’ recommendations on smoothing transitions between Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) to keep enrollees from churning on and off the program. The ADA urged CMS to expand dental participation in Medicaid by increasing reimbursement and reducing administrative burdens such as the easement of credentialing, audit processes, and encouragement of clean claims paid within 15 days. Regarding accessing CHIP coverage, the

ADA applauded CMS’ proposal to eliminate waiting and lock-out periods for dental care within the program.

Impacts on dentistry: Many states maintain separate CHIP programs that have over the years maintained waiting or lockout periods, but the trend of eliminating them in recent years has corresponded to an increase in the utilization of dental services among all children.

ADA, AAPD, Military and Veterans Service Organizations Ask Congress to Address Concerns About TRICARE

On October 27, the ADA, AAPD, and 9 military and veterans service organizations wrote the House and Senate Armed Services Committees to express their concerns about the current TRICARE dental contract with United Concordia. TRICARE is the health care program for active-duty service members, National Guard and Reserve members, retirees and their eligible family members. The letter follows a survey of ADA and AAPD members with experience in the TRICARE program. In the letter, the organizations urge Congress to adopt proposed changes to the TRICARE program to ensure military families’ out of pocket costs remain low.

Impacts on dentistry: As Congress works to create a better construct for the TRICARE dental program, administrative streamlining and network adequacy must be balanced with affordability for beneficiaries.

ADA Asks Congress to Review the Rank of the Military and VA Chief Dental Officers

In a letter sent to Congress on November 2, the ADA asked to restore the two-star rank or higher for the chief dental officers of the Army and Air Force, and upgrade the rank of the Chief Dental Officer of the Navy to two stars in the fiscal year 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The ADA also wrote to the leadership of the House and Senate Veterans Affairs Committees to ask that they restore the head of the office of Veterans Affairs (VA) Dentistry to directly reporting to the Under Secretary for Health or the equivalent of the military two star rank or higher.

Impacts on dentistry: Dental readiness in the military is a critically important issue for overall medical readiness. The ADA believes that a diminution of dentistry’s position with the respective surgeon generals’ offices may prevent dental readiness from being maintained and improved. Failure to maintain the ranks of the chief dental officers risks many of the gains the services have recently made towards the overall dental health levels necessary to support national defense.

Read about these and many other ADA advocacy efforts at ada.org/advocacy.

Dr. Jeffrey Ahlert

Dr. Clay Anderson

Dr. Tabitha Arias

Dr. Justin Beasley

Dr. William Beasley

Dr. Tamara Berg

Dr. Elizabeth Bohanon

Dr. C Todd Bridges

Dr. Matthew Bridges

Dr. S. Kelly Brown Dr. Tricia Cannon

Dr. Wuse Cara

Dr. Bobby Carmen Dr. Raymond Cohlmia Dr. Brian Drew Dr. Twana Duncan Dr. Barry Farmer Dr. John Folks

Dr. Richard Freeman Dr. Chad Garrison Dr. Sandra Grace Dr. Michael Hansen

Dr. James Hooper

Dr. Brad Hoopes

Dr. Eugenia Johnson

Dr. Jandra Korb Dr. Marti Levinson

Dr. David Marks Dr. Stephen Mayer Dr. Mohsen Moosavi Dr. Nicole Nellis Dr. Christopher Ray Dr. Karen Reed

Dr. Floyd Simon

Dr. Jim Taylor

Dr. Stephen Taylor Dr. Ryan Theobald Dr. Jonah Vandiver Dr. Robert Webb Dr. Mark Weems Dr. Robert Wells Dr. W. Scott White Dr. Ronald Winder Dr. Paul Wood

OKCapitol Club is for that “ABC” group of DENPAC members; or those who want to be “ABOVE AND BEYOND CONTRIBUTORS.”

OKCapitol Club members truly understand the importance of the ODA’s participation in the political process and want to support candidates who are committed to the state’s oral health and the issues that affect your practice. OKCapitol Club members support those efforts even more by contributing an additional $300 to DENPAC ($470 total) per year. For more information about Capitol Club, contact Lynn Means at 800-876-8890 or lmeans@okda.org.

ODA FEATURE

DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS: SOLITARY GINGIVAL MASS

By: Glen D. Houston, DDS, MSD | Diplomate, American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology | gdhdds@heartlandpath.com

HISTORY

A 24-year-old man presents with an exophytic soft tissue mass involving the left anterior maxillary facial and palatal gingiva. The lesion is slow growing and asymptomatic, and the duration is unknown.The patient notes a significant history of alcohol and tobacco use.

QUESTION #1

Your clinical differential diagnosis should include:

a. Pyogenic granuloma

b. Peripheral giant cell granuloma c. Peripheral ossifying fibroma d. Parulis e. Fibroma

f. Mucous retention phenomenon (mucocele)

ANSWER #1

Your clinical differential diagnosis should include:

a. Pyogenic granuloma

b. Peripheral giant cell granuloma c. Peripheral ossifying fibroma d. Parulis

e. Fibroma

All five of these lesions can present intraorally as an isolated gingival mass. The pyogenic granuloma (a) is a tumor-like growth of the skin and oral mucosa that is considered to be non-neoplastic in nature. This lesion represents an exuberant tissue response to local irritation or trauma. It typically presents as a smooth or lobulated mass that may exhibit a pedunculated or sessile base. The surface is characteristically ulcerated, and approximately 75% of the intraoral cases occur on the gingiva. This

lesion has also been observed at other intraoral sites to include the lips, tongue, and buccal mucosa.

The peripheral giant cell granuloma (b) occurs exclusively on the gingiva or the edentulous alveolar ridge. It presents as a red or reddish-blue nodular mass, may or may not be ulcerated, and can exhibit a sessile or pedunculated base.

The peripheral ossifying fibroma (c) is another non-neoplastic lesion that occurs exclusively on the gingiva. It presents as a nodular mass in young adults and usually involves the anterior regions of the jaws.

The parulis (d) represents a mass of subacutely inflamed granulation tissue associated with the gingiva. It usually arises from an infection of pericoronal, pulpal, or periodontal origin and resolves spontaneously after the offending tooth erupts into occlusion, is extracted, or is endodontically treated.

The fibroma (e) is the most common "tumor" of the oral cavity. This lesion is

probably a reactive, hyperplastic response of fibrous connective tissue to local irritation or trauma and not a true neoplasm. It typically presents as a smoothsurfaced pink nodule and can occur anywhere in the mouth or on the skin.

The mucous retention phenomenon (mucocele) (f) typically presents as a "dome-shaped" mucosal nodule. Because the gingiva and attached mucosa are devoid of minor salivary gland tissue, this would be a rare anatomic location to find this lesion that arises from the rupture of a salivary gland duct and spillage of mucus into the surrounding soft tissues.

QUESTION #2

Your treatment plan should consist of:

a. Intraoral radiographic survey

b. Biopsy of the lesion

c. No surgical intervention; advise the patient that this probably represents an "irritation" fibroma and that unless the area becomes symptomatic, no treatment is necessary

d. Vitality tests of the teeth in the area

e. Periodontal evaluation

QUESTION #3

Histologic examination of the excisional biopsy of this lesion reveals the following features: A nodular mass of very cellular fibrous connective tissue containing numerous islands of cementum and bone is observed. Considering the clinical appearance and microscopic description of this lesion, your diagnosis would be which of the following:

a. Peripheral ossifying fibroma

b. Epulis fissuratum

c. Neurofibroma

d. Pyogenic granuloma

e. Fibroma

ANSWER #3

The lesion is correctly diagnosed as peripheral ossifying fibroma (a) — see "Discussion" section. The other possibilities are not considered here because epulis fissuratum (b) and the fibroma (e) are both composed of a proliferation or hyperplastic mass of dense fibrous connective tissue without any evidence of a calcified product. The neurofibroma (c) is a neoplastic process composed of interlacing bundles of spindleshaped cells, which exhibit "wavy, comma-

shaped" nuclei in association with delicate collagen fiber bundles. Lastly, the pyogenic granuloma (d) is composed of a highly vascular proliferation of granulation tissue which exhibits numerous endothelium-lined vascular channels that are engorged with erythrocytes.

DISCUSSION

The peripheral ossifying fibroma is a benign reactive (non-neoplastic) lesion that occurs exclusively on the gingiva. Most authorities believe this entity arises from fibers of the periodontal ligament or periosteum.

The lesion usually presents clinically as a solid, firmly attached, gingival mass. The peripheral ossifying fibroma frequently causes separation of the adjacent teeth, and occasionally, minimal osseous resorption can be observed subjacent to the lesion. Frequently, the lesion is found to contain a calcified stalk or base at the time of surgery, and this, or other islands of calcified material, may be observed as radiopaque “flecks” or patches on a radiograph. This entity typically is slow growing and asymptomatic. Although often discovered by the patient, it usually does not receive professional attention until the patient presents for a routine examination. The peripheral ossifying fibroma has been observed in individuals between the ages of 10 and 20 years, with a peak incidence of 13 years. Females are more often affected than

males, and the majority of the lesions occur anterior to the molar tooth region. There is a slight predilection for the maxillary arch. Microscopically, the peripheral ossifying fibroma consists of a markedly cellular proliferation of benign fibrous connective tissue. Calcified tissue may or may not be present. If found, it may consist of osteoid, bone, dentin, cementum, or dystrophic calcification. The presence of inflammation is quite variable.

The lesion is treated by surgical excision. Because the peripheral ossifying fibroma probably arises from the periodontal ligament or periosteum, excision should be deep, down to the periosteum and including the associated periodontal ligament. Thorough root scaling of the adjacent teeth should be performed. Recurrence has been reported in 8%-16% of the cases.

REFERENCES

1. Childers ELB, Morton I, Fryer CE. Giant peripheral ossifying fibroma: a case report and clinicopathologic review of 10 cases from the literature. Head Neck Pathol. 2013; 7:356-360.

2. Zain RB, Fei YJ. Fibrous lesions of the gingiva; a histopathologic analysis of 204 cases. Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol. 1990; 70:466-470.

3. Kenney JN, Kaugars GE, Abbey LM. Comparison between the peripheral ossifying fibroma and peripheral odontogenic fibroma. J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 1989; 47:378-382.

HYGIENE HOTSPOT BECOMING A DENTAL HYGIENIUS

By: Nancy Miller, RDH, BSDH

When I started my career as a dental hygienist I had to know how to “pick and flick” teeth clean with single-ended hand instruments and polish with a belt-and-pulley lowspeed handpiece engine that usually got my hair caught in the belts. Radiograph films were wrapped in lead foil and paper and exposed, then unwrapped and developed in a darkroom with chemical dip tanks. Crowns were a $150 investment to the patient and made mostly of gold. Amalgam, tiny alloy pellets combined with drops of mercury and mixed in a Wig-L-Bug, comprised the predominant restorative material. I could offer one variety of electric toothbrush, the Broxodent, and it really was electric and plugged into the wall outlet! My, how things have changed!

team members in the hygiene department increases the chance for continuity and success.

I am pleased to be invited to present at the Oklahoma Dental Association’s Annual Meeting in Tulsa on Friday, April 28. I will be offering two courses based on my many years of experience and practice that will help create Dental Hygieniuses and great hygiene departments.

• Using both technologies on healthy (not just perio patients )

• Implant maintenance and peri-mucositis treatment

• An ergonomic and “time-economic” instrumentation sequence

Today’s dental hygienist needs to evolve into what I and others have called a Dental Hygienius to gain career satisfaction and fully contribute to a practice. Hygienists are usually the team members that spend the most time with the patients, and they are great at patient education, and explaining dental conditions and treatments. Hygiene services have evolved due to digitalization and power, and because of the expansion of the overall oralsystemic health link knowledge base.

Learning what’s available in clinical treatment techniques that can deliver care in a more efficient and timely manner can increase the practice’s bottom line as well as the hygienist's job satisfaction. Expanding hygienists’ overall knowledge of the business aspects of a dental practice gives them more ability to educate their patients to move forward with any recommended treatment. Involving all the

The morning course, Power Off Biofilm, focuses on clinical skill enhancement via power instrumentation. Increasing efficacy and discovering what you may be missing in new techniques in biofilm removal will be the focus, and as this is geared toward clinical skills, it is attractive to hygienists and dentists. Air polishing has been around for three decades, but its use was generally restricted to supragingival stain removal. Like ultrasonics with micro tips, their use with finersize powder particles is evolving into the next treatment modality for periodontal therapy. What do you need to know about this latest technological application? How can you incorporate it into your clinical routine?

While micro ultrasonics are now considered standard of care in periodontal therapy, what else are you using them for? What technological advances have there been since you were in school or your last CE course? Is there really a difference between piezoelectric technology and magnetostrictive units? Are there any new inserts on the market? Is there any superior way to adapt ultrasonic instruments to the type of patient in your chair? Objectives of the course include:

• Biofilm’s role in inflammatory disease

• The latest in types of ultrasonic inserts and airflow technique

The afternoon offering, Calculated Hygiene: The Business Side, emphasizes that the hygiene team is more than the hygienists; it includes support from the business team, restorative clinical team, and dentist. In order to gain “case acceptance” from the patient and to calculate the hygiene team’s effectiveness, the whole team must understand the total hygiene department's mission and objectives.

Your hygiene department should be the force moving the rest of your practice forward. It’s calculated that approximately 60% of the productivity in the doctor’s treatment room comes from the hygiene room. Calculating how to keep the hygiene department running smoothly and efficiently will ensure that the practice has a healthy, long life. Calculating optimum productivity requires understanding “the numbers” and what they mean in terms of care delivered to your patients. Objectives of this Calculated Hygiene course include:

• Performance benchmarks to assess department efficiency

• Increasing current knowledge of dental disease/disorders

• Technological assistance in efficient delivery of care

• Increasing treatment acceptance via case presentation skills

• Increasing patient understanding of dental benefit plans

• Patient retention strategies for longlasting relationships

• How to implement a hygiene assistant for optimum utilization of dental hygienists

These courses will demonstrate how to create a productive and creative dental hygiene department to maximize its contributions to a practice. Please join me at the Annual

Nancy Miller is a practicing dental hygienist with over 45 years of clinical experience, 15 in a periodontal practice. She currently practices one day weekly with a general dentist in Green Bay, Wisconsin. In 1992, Nancy began her own consulting and lecture business, ultraconcepts. She presents lectures and hands-on courses on topics such as Ultrasonic instrumentation, air polishing for biofilm removal, ergonomics, assisted hygiene, and the business side of dental hygiene. A dental practice management advisor with Jameson Management of OKC since 1998, she specializes in clinical department coordination with the business team and corporate relationships. A former Oral B Advisory Board member, she was one of Modern Dental Network's 25 Top Women in Dentistry for 2016. She is also a key opinion leader and product evaluator for several manufacturers, including Hu-Friedy Group and Crown Seating, and is a panelist on the Cellerant Group for Best of Class Hygiene Awards that debuted in 2021.

O KLAHOMA H EALTH P ROFESSIONALS P ROGRAM

Since 1983, the Oklahoma Health Professionals Program (OHPP) has provided services to over 1,000 physicians and health care providers with alcohol and chemical dependence. OHPP is an outreach program designed to support and monitor medical and allied health professionals throughout Oklahoma who are experiencing difficulty with substance abuse.

The OHPP continues to be a leader nationally in identifying problems, assisting in treatment, and returning to practice health care professionals who have suffered from substance abuse or dependency.

OHPP services are confidential and include expert consultation and intervention designed to encourage health care professionals to seek help for substance abuse and behavioral concerns.

When an individual contacts the OHPP about a health care professional or about himself or herself, the director or designated associate director assesses the situation and assists in guiding the health care professional.

Participation with OHPP is voluntary and confidential. OHPP will strongly urge a professional who is ill to get help, and although OHPP does not provide direct treatment, we will suggest specific treatment options. We respond to the concerns of families, colleagues, and hospitals by providing coordinated interventions and referrals to treatment.

In addition, OHPP hosts a number of support group meetings open to all health care professionals, students, residents in recovery as well as those seeking peer

OHPP recognizes the difficulty of reporting a colleague who may be impaired. Because of the potential risk to patient care, OHPP encourages medical professionals to make referrals if a problem exists, no matter how long there has been a problem.

Direct Line: (405) 601-2536

Confidential Fax: (405) 605-0394

Robert Westcott, MD - Director

Meeting in Tulsa for a fun and enlightening day of strategies on becoming a Dental Hygienius or helping manage one. See you there!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

KEEP IT LOCAL Case Study

By Dr. Larson Wayman

A 78-year-old female presented with the chief complaint, “I do not like the color of my lower front teeth.” The patient reported having incisal composites for several years that had chipped, as well as a failing existing bridge #27-29. From an esthetic standpoint, the shade and incisal wear of the lower anterior teeth were clearly compromised and an apparent contrast to the upper anterior restorations that were completed more than 10 years ago.

Mounted diagnostic models and a wax-up were used in the diagnosis and treatment planning of this case. The patient was diagnosed with wear due to dentoalveolar extrusion. She was adamant that she would not consider any orthodontic treatment. Her primary objection to orthodontic treatment involved her age and the length of time until the completion of restorations. After several options were discussed with the patient, she elected to have functional crown lengthening with a new bridge #27-29 and crowns #22-26. The pulp chambers of the lower incisors were very receded, so the risk of a pulp exposure was minimal.

The patient was referred to a periodontist, Dr. Lauren Klaus, for functional crown lengthening. Dr. Klaus used the wax-up to fabricate a surgical stent to guide the apical position of bone and gingiva levels for the most optimal esthetic result.

After three months of healing post-crown lengthening, the patient was prepared for final restorations. A putty matrix was used to aid in the preparation of the teeth to ensure adequate reduction without over-reduction. The final restorations inserted were lithium disilicate crowns #22-26, and a layered zirconia bridge #27-29. The patient is pleased with the result and is looking forward to enjoying her new smile!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. Larson Wayman is a general dentist and the owner of Wayman Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in Oklahoma City. Dr. Wayman is originally from Waco, Texas and attended the University of Texas School of Dentistry in Houston. After completing his Doctor of Dental Surgery, Dr. Wayman completed the AEGD residency program at Oklahoma College of Dentistry. His areas of interest include dental implants and cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Wayman and his wife, Emily, have two young sons, Hayes and Tripp.

START THE NEW YEAR OFF RIGHT

DentaQuest is a purpose-driven national leader in dental insurance and benefits administration. We’ve developed an inclusive approach to quality care and improving access for all populations, enabled by trusted partnerships between patients, providers and payors. We call it Preventistry®.

Why DentaQuest?

• 33M+ dental and vision members across more than 30 states.

• 50+ years of commercial dental benefits experience.

We are honored to partner with the Oklahoma Dental Association and its members to increase oral health access and improve oral health in the state of Oklahoma.

dentaquest.com/dentists

Three Ways to Qualify for the Employee Retention Credit ClearingUptheMythsandMisconceptions

By: Simon Walder

If you have been curious if your office qualifies for the Employee Retention Credit (ERC) or have been told you didn’t qualify, this article is for you! The ERC is a CARES Act stimulus package worth up to $26k per employee that most businesses have missed out on. When it was first introduced, there were many restrictions. For example, initially, companies couldn’t claim Employee Retention Credit if they had received PPP funding. However, the rules have been amdended, and now that is no longer the case.

The ERC is not an income tax credit but is instead a payroll incentive that comes in the form of a refund check from the Treasury Department. Many businesses do not know about the credit or have been incorrectly told they do not qualify. The credit is based on your 941s and payroll, two areas the typical accountant does not handle. Small businesses qualify by having only ONE of the following:

- full or partial suspension of operation

- decreased revenue - supply chain disruption

CHECK IF YOUR OFFICE QUALIFIES

Full or Partial Shutdown of Operations

The first option to qualify involves your business having experienced a partial or full shutdown. This qualification is based on a “suspension test” to demonstrate that your operations were partially or fully suspended due to a COVID-19 governmental order. For this option, it’s essential to know that a government restriction might have directly impacted your operations, even if that shutdown order wasn’t given to you directly. The cumulative effect of the full or partial suspensions needs to have had a more than nominal impact, meaning more than a 10% impact, on your business’s bottom line when considering the gross receipts of that portion of your business in 2020. This does not mean that your revenue must have decreased to use this qualification.

Revenue Reduction

The first way to substantiate your qualification is through the reduction of revenue. Out of the three qualifiers, loss of revenue is the one with which most business owners are familiar. For 2020, your firm must have experienced a 50% reduction of gross sales in at least one quarter for quarters two, three, and four of the year, as the COVID-19 pandemic began in the second quarter of 2020. When and if the revenue reduction in 2020 returns to 80% of the 2019 level, the qualification ends. Regarding 2021, you could qualify if you had a 20% reduction of gross sales for each quarter one, two, and three compared to the same quarter in 2019.

Supply Chain Disruption

Supply chain disruptions are another way your business can qualify. Businesses that rely on third-party sources, such as vendors and suppliers, for their companies to function can take this route to qualify. The qualification must have resulted from a government suspension order that impacted your suppliers, resulting in the third party not being able to deliver crucial goods or components. An example of this would be restaurants that could not obtain certain products, such as meats, produce, or even paper plates, during the pandemic. Another qualifying instance would be construction firms that could not receive windows due to closures and delays at ports. These impacts qualify a company, regardless of revenue gain or loss.

Claiming the ERC for Your Practice

Our company has helped nearly 1,000 dentists claim the ERC and, in total, has helped small businesses claim over 5 billion dollars in refunds from the Employee Retention Credit. Our team of experts, including CPAs, lawyers, and certified payroll providers, has simplified the process, enabling business owners to claim the typically confusing and challenging credit. To quickly check if your office qualifies, visit the link below or schedule a call with one of our team members!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Simon Walder spent nine years in the dental industry with Henry Schein and Benco. During that time, he helped over 100 dentists open their first dental practice. Simon now serves as an Advisory Board member at ERC Specialists. He has helped oversee the relationships with many dental associations and has helped over 500 dentists claim the Employee Retention Credit. Simon is an integral part of a team that has helped small business owners claim over $5 billion in refunds from the Employee Retention Credit.

The ERC, allows small businesses negatively affectedby COVID-19 to claim up to $26K per employee as a fully forgiven tax credit. But it’s vastly underutilized because many businesses — like dental practices — don’t realize they qualify. Start the process and check if you qualify by emailing, simon@ercspecialists.com or visiting okda.org/ rewards-program/erc.

Oklahoma Organizations Partner to

Dental Care for Oklahoma

Collaborating to serve Oklahoma veterans, the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry, Oklahoma Dental Association, Oklahoma Dental Foundation and Henry Schein Dental, hosted the third annual Veteran’s Dental Day on Saturday, November 12. This coordinated one-day event improves access to care and provides professional dental services at no cost to participants.

With limited dental benefits provided to veterans, access to oral health care can be difficult, and often, veterans delay urgent needs. Regular dental appointments are essential in evaluating, diagnosing, preventing, or treating oral diseases, which can affect systemic health.

“Oral health is an essential component of one’s overall systemic health,” said Paul M. Mullasseril, D.D.S., M.S., Dean of the OU College of Dentistry, past president of the Oklahoma Dental Association, and former major in the U.S. Army Reserve. “Part of our mission at the College of Dentistry is to improve the oral health of Oklahomans, especially those in underserved populations. It is a great honor to serve those that have so dutifully served our country. I am grateful to the Oklahoma Dental Association, the Oklahoma Dental Foundation, and Henry Schein Dental for their ongoing partnership and support of this event.”

In total, 57 Oklahoma veterans received free dental care; 233 dental procedures were completed which included cleanings, fillings, and extractions. More than $66,000 in dental care was donated. Participants had previously completed pre-screening appointments to determine their needs for dental care.

To help facilitate care during the event, Henry Schein donated an array of products including restoratives, personal protective equipment, and consumables.

Robert Herman, D.D.S., ODA President and former Lieutenant Commander in the US Navy said, “The Oklahoma Dental Association’s partnership with the OU College of Dentistry is stronger than ever, and having the opportunity to support this program at the school is an honor. Helping those in need and changing someone’s life through oral health care is what our profession is all about. These veterans have made countless sacrifices, and we are honored to be a part of this special day to show our appreciation.”

Dental Association

Oklahoma

CLASSIFIEDS

Looking to fill an open position in your office, need to sell dental equipment or a practice? Check out the latest listings below and visit okda.org/classifieds for additional listings.

PRACTICE FOR SALE

Western Oklahoma Practice for Sale: Active practice with 1800 plus patients for sale owner willing to stay for transition. Western Oklahoma rural dental practice for sell by orginal owner. $1,000.000 collections this year with the potential for much more. 3700 sq ft brick building on major intersection. Computerized digital xrays and intraoral scanner. Owner willing to stay for transition. For more info contact the owner at drj2thfxr@icloud.com

General Practice For Sale With Option to Purchase Building in Muldrow, OK: Chance of a lifetime.... a “steal of a deal”!

This is an excellent opportunity and selling price (value of real estate only) that is almost too good to be true. The attractive free-standing office is approx. 2600 square foot, has 4 equipped treatment rooms and is located on the main highway that runs through town. The practice opened in 1973 (by current doctor and owner) and has been the only dental practice in Muldrow serving the community and surrounding communities. The current doctor and owner is ready to retire, ready to make a good deal, and the city of Muldrow will need a new dentist. Muldrow is a very nice community with a good school system and is only 10 minutes from a larger city (Fort Smith, AR). If you are a new graduate who would like to own your practice and to be your own boss in a community that needs and will welcome a new dentist, this is for you. The retiring doctor would stay for transition if buyer prefers. For more information call Don @ 479-629-4479 or text @ 479-651-2852.

Place a Classified Ad

Placing an ad with the ODA allows you to target your ad to a specific audience. Unlike other classified ad sources (local newspaper, other online classified sites, etc.), a listing with the ODA gives you exposure to the people who would be most interested in your ad. The online version of the ODA Journal contains active hyperlinks within the advertisement, ensuring you get maximum exposure for your ad.

Submitting a classified ad is easy with our online form. Find the form and more information at www.okda.org/classifieds.

ODA Members

Online: Free ODA Journal: $40 for first 50 words (additional words $0.15 each)

Non-ODA Members

Online or ODA Journal: $83 (>50 words) (additional words $0.32 each)

Bundle (online & Journal) $149 (>50 words) (additional words $0.32 each)

Email: advertising@okda.org Call: 800.876.8890 Visit: okda.org/classifieds

HAVE YOU JOINED THE LEGACY?