The Evolution of Dentistry

By Joshua Golden, DDS

The field of dentistry is changing right before our eyes. In my opinion, the way we think, practice and care for patients has evolved over the last decade and impacted our journey from dental students to dental professionals. Essential topics such as representation for dental support organizations (DSOs) and diversity in dentistry are a few reasons why I attended the Florida Dental Association’s (FDA) Dentists’ Day on the Hill (DDOH) at the Capitol.

I remember being in dental school and feeling a “stigma” toward dentists who chose a DSO model for their practice. The DSO model often was seen as a threat to the “grassroots” ownership some associate with the dental field. As an owner dentist in a DSO, I can say that times have changed, and DSOs are being recognized more as a viable option for dental practice. Receiving my 2021 membership to the American Dental Association (ADA) and the FDA through Pacific Dental Services showed me that organized dentistry is becoming more inclusive of DSOs, and I am excited for the opportunity to plug into the dental association, get involved and ensure all dentists are represented.

My starting point was with the Leaders Emerging Among Dentistry (LEAD) training program in October 2021. This program focused on current trends in dentistry, and I truly enjoyed Dr. Chelsea Fosse’s discussion of the improvements in dental technology, changes in the dental insurance landscape and the multiple shifting demographics as it pertains to the face of dentistry. As an African American dentist, I am still shocked that the distribution of Black dentists hasn’t grown in the past 20 years, and nationally we only represent 3.8% of the profession. Diversity in dentistry is a significant topic for me because I believe my community needs more representation in dental care. I want to be a part of the solution by serving Black and brown communities and em-

Diversity in dentistry is a significant topic for me because I believe my community needs more representation in dental care. I want to be a part of the solution by serving Black and brown communities and emphasizing the importance of education and prevention through advocacy.

phasizing the importance of education and prevention through advocacy. Learning that FDA member dentists have traveled to Tallahassee for the past 25 years to proudly advocate on behalf of organized dentistry and the issues that impact the communities I serve highlighted a new way for me to share my voice and get more involved. On Feb. 1, I eagerly joined my colleagues and attended DDOH in Tallahassee, where we spread the message that good oral hygiene works in preventing dental disease. I look forward to continuing to represent ALL dentists in the ever-evolving field of dentistry with the goal to motivate, educate and inspire!

FLORIDA DENTAL CHATTER

This Facebook group is designed for dentists to interact with other members, receive the latest updates and information, and engage with FDA leaders and sta . This is the place to be in the know! Join us at facebook.com/groups/floridadentalchatter.