2011 wmdds fall bulletin

BulletinFALL ISSUE 2011

VOL. 44, NO. 1

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WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | FALL ISSUE 2011 1

Contents

President’s Message ..................................................................................................... 2

Editor’s Thoughts ........................................................................................................ 3

WMDF News................................................................................................................ 4

Notice of Election ........................................................................................................ 5

Sinusitis ........................................................................................................................ 6

Tech Q & A .................................................................................................................. 8

Child’s First Dental Visit Builds Foundation for Dental Health ..............................10

WMDF Golf Outing ....................................................................................................12

New Dentist Outing Visits Quail Ridge Golf Club ....................................................18

GRDHS News ...............................................................................................................19

Trustee Report .............................................................................................................20

WMDDS Directory Corrections and Additions ........................................................23

MDA News ...................................................................................................................24

Classified Ads ...............................................................................................................26

Advertiser Index ...........................................................................................................27

Reach Out and Touch Someone .................................................................................28

Mission StatementThe Bulletin is the newsletter of the WMDDS and its mission is to inform the membership of

upcoming and recent events, state & local issues related to dentistry, and as a forum for its officers,

representatives, and members to discuss appropriate topics of interest to the membership.

Communication & Advertising PolicyThe Bulletin will publish submitted articles from members and others that relate to the practice of

dentistry, small business, social, or political issues affecting dentists, or other subjects of interest to

the membership. All published items are subject to space restrictions and the community standards

of the WMDDS. The editors reserve the right to reject any article or advertisement deemed

inappropriate and to edit submissions as they see fit.

Submission & Publication Policy: Articles and advertisements must be submitted no later

than the 1st of the month preceding publication date. The Bulletin has six publications: the

directory issue, fall issue, holiday issue, winter issue, spring issue, and summer issue. Direct

submissions or correspondences to:

Dr. James C. Papp • 4880 Cascade Road SE, Suite B • Grand Rapids, MI 49546

Phone: 616.940.9872 FAX 616.940.2854 • Email: [email protected]

Include “Newsletter” in the subject line

Editor James Papp

Associate Editors Seth Vruggink Jeff Smith Aric Smith Larrisa Bishop

Advertising Editor Elaine Fleming Executive Secretary WMDDS 511-F Waters Building Grand Rapids, MI 49503 (616) 234-5605 [email protected]

West Michigan District Dental Society Executive Board 2011-2012 President Larissa Bishop President-Elect Tyler Wolf Vice President Margaret Gingrich Secretary-Treasurer Kathleen Ellsworth Editor James Papp Immediate Past President

Seth Vruggink

Directors Samuel Bander Steve Conlon Leonard BartoszewiczArea Representatives

Kent County Norman Wilhelmsen Ionia-Montcalm

Kirkwood Faber

County Mecosta County Doug Killian Ottawa County Meredith Smedley

MDA IV District Brian Cilla Trustees Colette Smiley

Big Rapids Dental Study Club OfficersPresident Erick Perroud Vice President Christa SternSecretary Christa SternTreasurer Erick Perroud

Holland-Zeeland Dental Society OfficersPresident Meredith Smedley Treasurer Robert Ankerman Secretary Immediate Past President

Ionia-Montcalm Dental Study Club OfficersPresident Treasurer Kirkwood Faber

Kent County Dental Society OfficersPresident Lathe Miller Vice President Norman Wilhelmsen Secretary Michael PalaszekTreasurer Kathryn Swan

West Michigan Dental Foundation OfficersPresident Devin Norman Vice President John Marshall Secretary Carol Klein Treasurer Joe VanLaan

The Bulletin of the West Michigan Dental Society is published six times a year (the directory issue, fall issue, holiday issue, winter issue, spring issue, and summer issue). The opinions expressed in The Bulletin are not necessarily the opinions of the West Michigan District Dental Society.

Contributions to The Bulletin are welcome and should be addressed to The Bulletin Editor, 4880 Cascade Road SE, Ste. B, Grand Rapids, MI 49546. Requests for purchase of advertising space should be directed to the Advertising Editor, Elaine Fleming, (616) 234-5605. The deadline is the 1st of the month prior to publication.

© 2011-2012 West Michigan District Dental Society Bulletin

ummer is over and it is time to start getting ready for

fall – putting away the golf clubs, storing the boat, and

closing up the cottage. Fall brings its own activities, of

course – such as high school, college, and professional football,

the baseball playoffs (go Tigers!), and

trips to orchards for wagon rides

in the crisp air. Fall is also the time

that we all begin to settle back into

our “normal” routines – whether this

means getting our children ready for

school in the mornings, extending

our office hours, or simply feeling

like we don’t have to squeeze every

minute out of the beautiful sum-

mer weather. From a professional

standpoint, this fall, we have a terrific

CE course lined up with Dr. Steven

Steinberg that promises to be inter-

esting. It will focus on the manage-

ment of dental caries and also balanc-

ing work with your home life.

Earlier this summer, the Board of

the WMDDS sent out a survey that

asked our memberships’ opinion on

several topics that we can use when planning future events.

I would like to take the time to relay some of the responses

that we received. The majority of the membership liked the

fact that we usually hold our CE courses in October, January,

and March, along with the location that we have used for the

last several years, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.

Some of the reasons people said they like Meijer Gardens are

its central location, the ease of parking, and that the parking

is free. The vast majority of the participants that responded

liked the range of CE speakers and topics that are introduced

by the program committee, and that two lectures each year

are geared toward the dentist while one is designed for the

entire office. The last question that was asked related to the

Silent Bell and the venue where it is held. The majority of

people who chose not to attend this event gave one of two rea-

sons – either because it occurs during an already busy holiday

season, or because they felt it is an “older dentist’s” function.

While the results of this survey will be passed on to the pro-

gram committee as they make arrangements for the schedul-

ing of events in future years, please remember that the Silent

Bell is our chance each year to honor someone who has made

an enormous contribution to our profession and our com-

munity. While we understand the

holidays are a busy time, please make

every effort to attend this December.

One of the things that the commit-

tees cannot change is the attendance

of dentists and their spouses at the

events, no matter what their age.

We can move the times and change

the venues, but if the membership

does not attend, it will have been

to no avail. As a society, we need to

have our membership involved – and

hopefully have fun at the same time.

I’m sure everyone remembers back

to when they were in dental school

and the friendships they formed

while socializing with their friends

in a relaxed atmosphere. The West

Michigan Dental Foundation golf

outing, the New Dentist golf outing,

the New Dentist social event, and the Silent Bell are meant

to provide all of us with the opportunity to foster friendships

with colleagues and their spouses, and to have newer mem-

bers realize how wonderful it is to be part of the WMDDS.

I hope over this next year, as the invitations come across your

desk to attend these and other events, that you will seriously con-

sider attending. These are excellent opportunities to get to know

your fellow dentists and referring specialists on a personal level.

WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | FALL ISSUE 20112

P R E S I D E N T ’ S M E S S A G E

It’s Time to Get Out and SocializeBy Dr. Larissa Bishop, WMDDS President

S“ The West Michigan Dental

Foundation golf outing, the

New Dentist golf outing, the

New Dentist social event,

and the Silent Bell are meant

to provide all of us with the

opportunity to foster friend-

ships with colleagues and

their spouses, and to have

newer members realize how

wonderful it is to be part of

the WMDDS.”


otox was introduced to the world in the late 1980s

by ophthalmologists, who began using it to treat

optic muscle disorders. It was approved by the Food

and Drug Administration (FDA) for

the treatment of moderate to severe

frown lines between the eyebrows

(glabellar lines) in 2002, and its pop-

ularity has soared ever since. Botox

is consistently one of the top five

nonsurgical cosmetic procedures per-

formed each year.

In addition to glabellar lines, Botox

is used to eradicate crow’s feet, frown

lines, and furrows in the forehead. It

is also approved to treat a variety of

medical conditions, including ocular

muscle spasms, problems with eye

coordination, severe armpit perspira-

tion, and migraine headaches. Botox

may also be useful in treating condi-

tions such as knee and hip osteo-

arthritis, temporomandibular joint

disorder, and benign prostatic hyper-

plasia (BPH).

How it worksUnlike soft tissue fillers such as Juvederm and Sculptra

Aesthetic that add volume to skin depressions which has also

been making their way into dentistry, Botox blocks the release

of a chemical called acetylcholine, which triggers the muscle

contractions that create wrinkles.

Botox essentially paralyzes the muscles and stops them

Got Botox?By Dr. James C. Papp, WMDDS Editor

E D I T O R ’ S T H O U G H T S

from contracting. Typically, the results of Botox treatment

can last up to three months or longer, especially when com-

bined with a zinc supplement.

Botox in the Dental office?So what has Botox got to do with dentistry? How can it possi-

bly have any relationship to our patients’ health? Why should

dentists be involved in providing it?

From a treatment planning standpoint, some of our

patients (or an increasing number) are having facial esthetic

procedures performed somewhere, whether or not we provide

them with it ourselves, or even if we approve of it personally.

If we are treatment planning esthetic dental work, which

affects the support of the lips, the

amount of anterior tooth, and gin-

gival display, then we need to realize

that Botox treatment of the face (and

other treatments such as dermal fill-

ers) will impact our result and needs

to be considered. To our dental pro-

fession, an understanding of Botox

and how it works is necessary.

From an application standpoint,

it seems that dentists are uniquely

suited for providing Botox treatment.

One of our main skill sets is assess-

ing the balance and overall esthetics

of the face. We have had extensive

training in the anatomy of the head

and neck and we inject cranial nerves

daily.

It really seems to come down to

proper training. With proper train-

ing, there is arguably no better prac-

titioner to provide Botox in the

peri-oral region of the face. Injecting

Botox in any area outside that gets into a “grey area.” And

typically, state boards do not like “grey areas.”

For more on Botox, see Dr. Cilla’s Report on page 21.All opinions published in the WMDDS Bulletin are published on the author-ity of the writer and are not to be regarded as the views of the West Michigan District Dental Society unless such statements have been adopted by the Society.

B“ If we are treatment planning

esthetic dental work, which

affects the support of the

lips, the amount of anterior

tooth, and gingival display,

then we need to realize that

Botox treatment of the face

(and other treatments such

as dermal fillers) will impact

our result and needs to be

considered. To our dental

profession, an understanding

of Botox and how it works

is necessary.”


he West Michigan Dental Foundation (WMDF) is

the custodian of the Dr. Robert Mitus Education

Fund. Bob practiced in Northeast Grand Rapids and

Sand Lake, and was very involved in organized dentistry at

both the local and state level. Upon his passing, after a coura-

geous battle with cancer in 1999, colleagues, friends, and for-

mer dental school class-

mates contributed money

in his name to locally

fund dental scholarships.

Bob was instrumental in

starting a similar dental

scholarship fund at the

state level through his

work with the Michigan

Dental Association. The

WMDF Dr. Robert Mitus

Education Fund, however,

was intended to support

dental students planning

on returning to West

Michigan.

Over the years, the

WMDF Mitus Education

Fund has slowly grown

with proceeds from the

New Dentist Forum golf

outings. Although Bob

would be pleased with the

effort, he would consider

it a personal challenge to

bring this fund up to the

level it deserves. To date,

the balance of the fund has

been insufficient to use for meaningful scholarships without

diminishing the principal balance. This year, the Board of

the West Michigan Dental Foundation has made it a prior-

ity to double the size of the fund over the next two years.

Growing the fund will provide for a meaningful scholarship

to a deserving dental student who shows the potential to be a

leader in local, state, or national organized dentistry.

T

W M D F N E W S

Dr. Robert Mitus Education FundSubmitted by Dr. Richard Panek, Chair, West Michigan Dental Foundation Community Grant Committee

Many of us remember Bob’s passion for the West Michigan

Dental Foundation and West Michigan District Dental Society.

Providing scholarships for our potential future dental leaders

benefits the community and future West Michigan District

Dental Society member dentists. The Foundation Board feels

he would definitely be pleased with the direction taken to

bolster the education fund.

If you have shown sup-

port for this effort in the

past, thank you – and con-

sider, once again, giving

generously.

Contributions can be

made to the Dr. Robert

Mitus Education Fund in

care of the West Michigan

Dental Foundation. Please

make your check pay-

able to the Dr. Robert

Mitus Education Fund

and mail your check to:

West Michigan Dental

Foundation, 161 Ottawa

Avenue NW, 511-F Waters

Building, Grand Rapids,

MI 49503. You will also

have an opportunity to

make a contribution when

you receive your annual

appeal letter from the

Foundation in November.

The WMDF Dr. Robert

Mitus Education Fund

needs your financial sup-

port to continue Bob’s vision. Please consider helping build

up the Dr. Robert Mitus Education Fund to a level which

would put that familiar wry smile on his face if he were still

with us. If you have never pledged to give, please do so by

honoring our memory of Dr. Mitus and make a donation to

the scholarship fund in his name.


West Michigan District Dental Society Notice of Election

(Written mail-in ballots will be sent 30 days following this notice)

In accordance with the West Michigan District Dental Society by-laws, the Nominations Committee presents the follow-

ing slate of candidates for the positions of Alternate Delegates and Delegates for the 2012 Michigan Dental Association

House of Delegates and WMDDS offices for 2012-2013. By-laws require that a written notice of the names of the nomi-

nees for elective offices be published 30 days prior to the election. The election will be held by a mail-in ballot.

Four (4) of the following will be elected to a two-year term as Delegate to the MDA House of Delegates and the remaining

eleven (11) will serve a one-year term as Alternate Delegates.

Dr. Kirkwood Faber Dr. Doug Killian Dr. Seth Vruggink

Dr. Brian Mulder Dr. Ben Zarzecki Dr. Kathryn Swan

Dr. Trish Roels Dr. Steve Conlon Dr. Mike Nichols

Dr. Leonard Bartoszewicz Dr. Kevin Rebhan Open

Open Open Open

Completing the delegation in accordance with the WMDDS by-laws are the following members:

Dr. Larissa Bishop, chair Dr. Tyler Wolf Dr. Margaret Gingrich

Dr. Sam Bander Dr. Matthew Gietzen Dr. Ryan Lebster

Dr. Douglas Klein

(Drs. Bishop, Wolf and Gingrich are automatic seats and Drs. Bander, M. Gietzen and Lebster, D. Klein are serving the

second year of a two-year term as delegates.)

The Nominations Committee further recommends the following candidates to fill the following Society offices for

2012-2013:

Dr. Tyler Wolf, President

Dr. Margaret Gingrich, President-elect

Dr. Sam Bander, Vice President

Dr. Kathleen Ellsworth, Secretary/Treasurer

Dr. Steve Conlon, 3rd year Director

Dr. Kirkwood Faber, 2nd year Director

Dr. Brian Mulder, 1st year Director

The Nominations Committee shall include as a nominee for any of the above mentioned positions the name of any West

Michigan District Dental Society member in good standing for whom a petition, signed by fifteen (15) active members of

the Society has been submitted. Petitions should be delivered by December 5, 2011 to the chairperson of the Nominations

Committee, Dr. Seth Vruggink, 522 South Beacon Blvd, Grand Haven, MI 49417.


nce again the season changes. My patient this

morning hit the mark saying, “someone hit the

Michigan weather switch.” Yesterday was sum-

mer, today, fall. Michiganders typically enjoy the change

of seasons, although the sights and smells of these seasonal

changes can usher in the risk of a stuffy head, congestion, and

itchy eyes, all of which are common symptoms of sinusitis. In

fact, sinusitis is actually a common condition with more than

24-31 million cases occurring in the United States annually.

In the dental office, we see a lot these patients, and sinusitis

is often included in the chief dental complaint because of its

proximity. A colleague of mine recently described a patient

that presented to the office with root canal treatments on

all four of her mandibular premolars. As it turned out, the

primary cause was referred pain from her maxillary sinuses.

It never hurts to be updated on such a condition we often see

intermingled in our dental examinations.

Sinusitis is defined as an inflammation of the sinus cavities

and nasal passages. In the skull, there are four major pairs

of cavities that are typically hollow and filled with air. There

are severe functional components of sinus, including vocal

resonance, insulation, and to moisturize and warm the air

as we breathe. In addition, sinuses act as a natural defense

by producing a layer of mucus, keeping surfaces moist

and protecting against pollutants and microorganisms. The

mucus is normally propelled toward the back of the nose

and throat by cells that line the sinus, and the mucus is then

swallowed. If this process is disrupted, bacteria can begin to

colonize, causing an infection. For the vast majority of cases,

acute sinus infections are due to viral infections (Rhinovirus,

Adenovirus) of the upper respiratory tract, and tend to resolve

SinusitisBy Dr. James C. Papp, WMDDS Editor

F E A T U R E A R T I C L E

within ten days. However, chronic sinusitis (symptoms last-

ing more than 20 days) is often caused by bacteria, allergens

(pollen, animal dander, smoke), fungi and autoimmune

diseases. Other causes may be polyps, deviated nasal septum,

congenital diseases (cystic fibrosis), trauma, and immuno-

deficient conditions.

Symptoms of a sinus infection can include facial pressure

(worsens when leaning forward), headache, tooth pain when

chewing, decreased sense of smell, muscle aches, fever, bad

breath, and thick nasal discharge.

There are some simple “home” remedies that patients can

perform when symptoms occur:

1. Hydration: drink ample amount of water.

2. Create an at-home steam vaporizer. Boil some water, lean

over the bowl with a towel over your head, creating a

compartment for the steam to rise into your nasal passages

(please take the bowl off the stove first). Ten minutes, 2-4

times per day.

3. Vicks Vapor Rub. As directed or maybe added to boiling

water.

4. Common over-the-counter medications may be helpful

to thin out and expel mucus. Mucinex and Robitussin

are easily attainable at your local drug or grocery store.

Sudafed and other common decongestants can help with

airway. Delsym can be used to suppress cough if present.

Robitussin products are also a good suggestion.

5. Pain relievers: Motrin, Tylenol (the usual players).

Interestingly, non-prescription antihistamines are not as

highly recommended as they once were. The reason is that

they tend to dry out membranes and create thickened mucus.

Thicker mucus leads to more difficulties in drainage which is

counterproductive.

Important points to make to our patients when consider-

ing the above remedies is to have them notify their family

physician regarding their condition and get clearance to take

any additional medications, as some of the medications may

conflict with current medications and or medical conditions.

Reference: Lynn Laitinen-Kloss, MD, MPH. Sinusitis. Patient In Charge

Magazine. 2011.

O


New Dentist Forum Agenda

Wednesday, October 26, 2011Pietro’s – 6:00 pm

Speaker: Tim Rankin from DentaChoice On-Site Handpiece Service

Topic: “Handpieces – Ergonomics, Longevity, Infection Control and Customer Comfort”

Pizza and beverages – no charge

1 CEU

Wednesday, November 30, 2011Pietro’s – 6:00 pm

Speakers: Brian LaFrenier and Eric Smith

Topic: “2011 Tax Update and Planning Opportunities, the New Michigan Income Tax, and Risk Management and Fraud”

Pizza and beverages – no charge

1 CEU

For more information, contact Dr. Jacob Lueder at 616.855.4070.

Looking for a fun and unique way to celebrate the holidays with your staff ? Broadway Grand Rapids is offering 10-25% off individual ticket prices to dental offices who want to plan a holiday event. Enjoy the classic holiday show, Irving Berlin’s White Christmas on stage at Devos Hall in Grand Rapids, November 15th-20th. Call Meghan Distel at Broadway Grand Rapids 616-719-8050 to get your discounted tickets.


n each WMDDS Bulletin, I will be fielding your questions

about technology, its place in the dental practice, and

beyond. Send your questions to [email protected]

and I’ll answer them on my blog, facebook, and in each

Bulletin. Here’s a topic that many of you have questioned.

What’s the story with Cloud computing?Let’s start with an explanation. Chances are your office uses a

standard client/server network which consists of client com-

puters and a server that stores all of your patient information

and images. Cloud computing differs from this, in simple

terms, by moving your data offsite and eliminating the need

for a server.

To illustrate this difference, think about gmail, yahoo

email, or any other web-based email program. When you log

into www.gmail.com to view your email, you are cloud com-

puting. Google is storing your data, you are simply accessing

from an internet-capable device.

What is good about Cloud computing?∙ Less hassle. With no server to care for, you no longer have

to worry about updates, backups, security, and other com-

mon maintenance items associated with a server.

∙ Availability. Because your data is housed in the cloud, it

is available from any computer that has internet access.

Think again of email, this is accessible anywhere, not just

at the office.

∙ Cost. We’ll find this in the bad section too, but you no

longer have the cost of a server to worry about. This means

no large upfront equipment and setup cost.

∙ Fault Tolerance. In a Cloud computing environment,

you never have to worry about your server crashing. In

the Cloud, applications can switch to other servers if one

crashes, so in theory there is never downtime due to hard-

ware malfunctions.

What is bad about Cloud computing?∙ Reliance on internet. How many times does your office

lose internet connection? Chances are it’s not too often,

but in a Cloud computing environment you will also lose

access to your data if internet ever goes down. A second

internet connection is recommended as a backup.

∙ Data is in someone else’s possession. If you’re like me, you

might be a little uneasy knowing someone else is in charge

of your data. Although they are often better equipped to

care for and protect your data, it can still be unnerving for

some folks knowing their data is somewhere else.

∙ Speed. Your computers can currently talk to your server

at 100 or (hopefully) 1000 Mega Bits Per Second (Mbps).

Under Cloud computing you must rely on your internet

connection, which at best might reach 20 Mbps. There are

some creative ways that Cloud companies compensate for

this, but it would be a long shot to match the performance

of your in house server.

∙ Cost. As mentioned above, you avoid the initial server

cost. Depending on your configuration, the monthly fees

for Cloud computing may or may not be a long-term cost

savings. This would take some analysis.

What does Greg think about Cloud computing?I think it’s absolutely wonderful in the right scenario. I use

google’s Cloud services for my email, calendar, contacts, and

documents. It allows me to access these items anywhere in the

world from any computer, tablet, or smartphone. Setup was

extremely easy and there is no overhead.

In dental, my personal opinion is that Cloud computing

might just be the way of the future, but isn’t yet worth the

tradeoff for most offices. In my experience, speed is such an

important aspect of day-to-day operations in a dental office

that it would be very difficult to use anything but the fastest

system available. For imaging especially, the fastest system

available to you is a server sitting in your office.

Tech Q & ASubmitted by Greg Feutz, President, DDS Integration

T E C H N I C A L L Y S P E A K I N G

I

Greg Feutz is President of

DDS Integration, a

Grand Rapids based dental

technology company.


Cloud computing for your Practice Management system

can provide a lot of nice features as previously listed. For

those reasons, a number of dental practices are making the

transition, and with good results. For now, however, my

opinion is that you can accomplish everything right in your

own practice with a traditional server installation.

PUBLICATION SIZE SCREEN WO # IO # NOTES

West Michigan District Dental Soc.

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866-451-8814Connect with us:

What are your thoughts?Comment on our blog or facebook article. We’d love to hear

your opinions on Cloud computing or any other topic.

Facebook: facebook.com/ddsintegration

Blog: ddsintegration.com/blog

T E C H N I C A L L Y S P E A K I N G

MDA Cover Program Helps

Members on Extended Absenses

The MDA is seeking participants for its new

COVER Program – Colleagues Offering

Varied Emergency Relief – a new locum

tenens service that helps member dentists

find practice coverage while they are on an

extended absence. This members-only ser-

vice provides dentists with a statewide list

of colleagues who have expressed interest in

providing temporary coverage while he or

she is away from the office.

The COVER program recently won a

coveted “Golden Apple” award from the

American Dental Association for excellence

in member-related services and benefits.

If you are interested in joining the pro-

gram and willing to help another mem-

ber during a time of need, without the

obligation of making a formal commit-

ment, e-mail Josh Lord, MDA Director of

Membership and Student Affairs, at jlord@

michigandental.org, or call 517-346-9415.


Children’s primary teeth, often called “baby teeth,” are

as important as adult permanent teeth and require routine

check-ups and care. The first teeth that erupt are usually the

first four lower teeth and the first four upper teeth, called the

incisors. Most children will have a full set of 20 primary teeth

by the age of three. They then will begin to loose these teeth

sometime around the age of five, with the first two lower front

teeth being the first ones to loosen and come out.

Parents should begin to start brushing their child’s teeth

when the first tooth appears by using a small finger tooth-

brush and water. Children are able to start using a small

amount of fluoridated toothpaste that is “pea sized” begin-

ning at the age of two, after checking with their children’s

dentist and under supervision of the parent. The child should

be taught to not swallow the toothpaste and then rinse and

spit out any remaining toothpaste that is in the mouth. An

adult needs to supervise children with their brushing until

they are about eight or nine years of age, or are able to start

cursive writing. Until then, their dexterity is not able to have

the technique that is needed to properly reach all areas.

Parents should begin to use floss as soon as any two pri-

mary teeth touch. They may also use a floss holder, which is

sometimes easier to reach some of the back primary molars.

Cleaning between the teeth is important because it removes

plaque where a toothbrush is not able to reach. Children

should brush their teeth twice a day and floss once daily, the

same as is recommended for adults.

So, the earlier the better for your infant’s oral health care.

It’s important to establish an early partnership with your

dentist, along with proper home dental care and good nutri-

tion habits. Children with healthy teeth chew food easily and

smile with confidence. Start your child now on a lifetime of

good dental habits.

The Dentists’ Column appears in The Grand Rapids Press “Health

Section” the first Sunday of every month with a disclaimer: Brought to

you by the 600 members of the West Michigan District Dental Society in

Kent, Ottawa, Ionia, Mecosta and Montcalm counties. West Michigan

District Dental Society dentists are also members of the Michigan Dental

Association.

uilding a solid foundation for your child’s dental

health is as easy as 1, 2, 3… provided dental care

begins early and remains consistent.

Your baby’s first visit to the dentist should begin with a

milestone that every parent looks forward to – the arrival of

the first tooth. These all-important baby teeth, which start

coming in between six and 12 months of age, are essential to

the process of learning to chew food, speaking, and to your

baby’s overall appearance.

The American Dental Association and the American

Academy of Pediatrics both recommend that your child

should visit the dentist by the age of one, or within six months

from when the first tooth comes in. This establishes with your

child a dental home, where parents and child become com-

fortable visiting the dentist. Seeing a dentist at an early age is

all about prevention and education.

On your child’s first visit, the dentist will do a simple

“knee-to-knee” exam in which the child will lay on the parent’s

lap and place his or her head on the dentist’s knee. This allows

the dentist to take a look inside the child’s mouth to check

for decay and make sure your baby’s teeth, mouth, and facial

bones are properly developing.

The initial visit will also include a thorough medical and

dental history of both the parent and the infant to determine

if the child is at a greater than normal risk of developing cavi-

ties. Most people are surprised to learn that the bacteria which

can cause tooth decay can be transmitted from the mother to

the infant. Your dentist will also teach you how to properly

clean your child’s teeth and gums, and determine if your baby

needs fluoride supplements.

Your child’s dentist will also discuss the use of a pacifier

and thumb sucking, grinding of teeth, teething and treat-

ments for it, injury prevention, the use of a bottle and sippy

cup, and the effects of diet on oral health.

The year-one dental visit can actually save money. A study

in the journal Pediatrics showed that children who have their

first dental visit before age one have 40 percent lower dental

costs in their first five years than children who do not, due to

the cost of dental and medical procedures that may be neces-

sary as a result of poor oral health.

T H E G R A N D R A P I D S P R E S S H E A L T H S E C T I O N A R T I C L E

Child’s First Dental Visit Builds Foundation for Dental HealthReprinted from The Grand Rapids Press, September 4, 2011

B

West Michigan District Dental Society is an

ADA CERP Recognized Provider.

RegistRation FoRm

NAME

ADDRESS

ADDITIONAL REGISTRANT(S) AT THIS ADDRESS

MDA-member dentist – $250

WMDDS retired member dentist – $100

1st staff member – $100

2nd-5th staff members – $90

6th-12th staff members – $85

13th staff member and over – $80

per non-member dentist – $500

TOTAL:

PAY BY CHECK: Make checks payable to: West Michigan District Dental Society. Remit to: Elaine Fleming | c/o WMDDS | 161 Ottawa NW | Suite 511-F, Waters Building | Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503 | Questions? Call 616.234.5605 or email [email protected]

“HoW to Love DentistRy, Have Fun anD PRosPeR!”Presented by Dr. David Madow and Dr. Richard Madow | January 20, 2012 | Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

This fun, fast-paced course is perfect for all doctors, team members and spouses who want to easily and predictably take their practices to a level they never thought possible.

It’s filled with incredibly usable content, and also features videos, music, and humor to make it unlike any other dental seminar most have ever experienced. The Madow Brothers make sure that every single dentist and team member in the audience learns the secrets of delivering better patient care, practice growth, and fulfillment in the profession of dentistry while having an enjoyable day. Practically every attendee reports that a Madow Brothers seminar was the best day they have ever spent in dentistry.

Here are just some of the things covered in this course:• One simple thing to add to your exams for better patient care AND increased practice income.• Double your new patients instantly by getting them off the phone and into your appointment book.• The latest trends in social media — get up to speed now and watch your practice explode.• Ways to economically and efficiently “Grow Your Practice Locally.”• How to avoid the “Deadliest Four Words in Dentistry” being said about you (and they are).

• Important telephone skills — answer those difficult questions correctly every time.• Ten “Incredible Practice Builders.” Easy and inexpensive ways to reach out to those in your community.• The best referral idea in the history of dentistry.• “Off the Wall” ideas for practice growth that you will NOT hear anywhere else.• Do this simple thing and never run late again.• How to give a painless injection every time.• Simple ways to lower your overhead once and for all.• Re-energize your entire team and get them to love your practice.• How any office can achieve 100% treatment plan acceptance.• Clinical updates in lasers, digital technology and more.• Seven “Almost Free” ways to get and keep new patients.• Performing treatment that was “slipping through the cracks.”• A live demonstration that will leave you in shock, disbelief, and help you to schedule more new patients than ever before.• A special ending — you’ve never seen anything like it at a dental seminar!

PAY BY CREDIT CARD: � VISA � Mastercard

CREDIT CARD # EXPIRATION DATE/SECURITY CODE

NAME ON CARD

SIGNATURE

Thank you To ouR SPonSoRS who have helPeD To Make TheSe PRoGRaMS available To uS.

Supporting Sponsor:Platinum Sponsors:

Silver Sponsors:


Major Patron Sponsor ($250)Valleau and VanDeven Pediatric Dentistry

2011 Golf CommitteeDr. Matt Gietzen, chair

Dr. Larissa Bishop

Mr. Jim Ditta

Mr. Hal Henkel

Dr. Tim Meade

Dr. Ken Mulder

Dr. Mike Palaszek

Dr. Mark Powell

Dr. Ryan Zolman

Elaine Fleming

A special thanks to Carol Klein (OMSA of Western Michigan)

and Betsy Haller (Bank of Holland) for their help the day of the

event. Also, thank you to Grand Rapids Community College

dental assisting students, and volunteers from Founders

Bank & Trust, Midwest Capital Advisors, Greg Feutz (DDS

Integration), Vander Lugt, Mulder, DeVries, and Elders.

Mark your calendar: 2012 outing will be Friday, June 1 at

Egypt Valley Country Club.

erfect weather greeted the 104 golfers who participated

in the annual West Michigan Dental Foundation golf

outing at Egypt Valley Country Club on June 3, 2011.

The event began with a shotgun start at 12:00 noon and ended

with a picnic dinner sponsored by Davis Dental Laboratory.

This year’s event netted over $17,000, which will be used to

support the activities of the WMDF.

A special thank you to our sponsors:

Dinner Sponsor ($2,000)Davis Dental Laboratory

Eagle Sponsors ($1,000)Grandville Endodontics – Dr. Brian Licari

Henry Schein Dental

Meade and Zolman Family Dentistry

OMSA of Western Michigan, P.L.C.

Oral Surgery Associates

West Michigan Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, PC

Birdie Sponsors ($500)Doctors Caldwell and Christopherson

Dr. Gary Cook

DDS Integration

First Companies, Inc.

Founders Bank & Trust

Grand River Endodontics, PC – Dr. Sarah Lennan

Grand River Orthodontics, PC – Dr. Heather Gietzen

Grandville Dental Health Center – Drs. Bishop and Biersack

Huyser Orthodontics – Dr. David Huyser

Dr. Jacob Lueder

MDA Insurance MDA Services

Midwest Capital Advisors

Norman Family Dentistry

Dr. Thomas Nykamp

Partners in Dental Care, PC

Patterson Dental Supply

Dr. Mark Powell

Professional Consulting and Accounting Group Inc.

VanderLugt, Mulder, DeVries, and Elders

W M D F G O L F O U T I N G

Golfers Raise Funds for West Michigan Dental FoundationBy Elaine Fleming, WMDDS Executive Secretary

P

One thing I am certain about is my malpractice protection.”

“Dentists are dealing with many unknowns...

Professional Liability Insurance & Risk Management Services

ProAssurance Group is rated A (Excellent) by A.M. Best. Visit www.ProAssurance.com • 800.292.1036

Many dentists are feeling the impact of lowered demand for dentistry due to the economy.Profitability challenges and increased risk to meet those challenges contribute to an atmosphere of uncertainty and lack of control.

What we do control as dentists: our choice of a liability partner.

I selected ProAssurance because they stand behind my good dentistry. In spite of the maelstrom, I am protected, respected, and heard.

I believe in fair treatment—and I get it.



Dental Appreciation Week is coming to The Joe! The Detroit Red Wings and the West Michigan District Dental Society are joining forces for two special nights of fun:

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 5 VS. THE ANAHEIM DUCKS AT 7:00 P.M. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 11 VS. THE EDMONTON OILERS AT 7:30 P.M.

You can save up to 50% off of Box Office prices:

• Upper Bowl tickets are just $25 • Premium Upper Bowl tickets are $40

• Wings will donate $5 from every ticket purchased to the West Michigan District Dental Society

The Wing’s official team dentists, Dr. Jeffrey Boogren and Dr. Randy Freij, invite you to join them pre-game at 5pm both nights to offer helpful advice, answer questions

and share stories of their experience.

If you have any questions or would like to purchase tickets, contact: Clark Rowekamp at 313-394-7546 or at [email protected]

Or visit www.DetroitRedWings.com/dental Promocode: WMDDS

Reserve your seats early, quantities are limited and these games will sell out!

Enjoy outstanding service,numerous coverage options and tremendous savings.

MDA programs are continuously reviewed to ensure your coverage needs are being met. MDA Insurance and MDA Services offer a wide range of programs including:

• Examination Gloves• Credit Card Processing• Payroll Processing• Professional Liability Insurance• Practice Property Insurance• Individual and Group Health Insurance• Life and Disability Insurance• Auto & Homeowner’s Insurance

Keeping You Prepared

Celebrating 25 Years

So You’re Never Surprised

Quality Programs. Group Savings. Lower Dues.

(800) 860-2272www.mdaprograms.com www.smilemichigan.com


* Malpractice insurance is underwritten by Professional Solutions Insurance Company, 14001 University Ave., Clive, IA 50325. Professional Solutions Insurance Company is rated “A” (Excellent) by A.M. Best for financial strength and operating performance. A.M. Best ratings range from A++ to S. ©2011 PSIC NFL 9191 ALL

To learn more, call 1-800-718-1007, ext. 9191,or visit www.profsolutions.com.

Get competitive dental malpractice insurance coverage with protection you can trust from “A” (Excellent) rated*

Professional Solutions Insurance Company.

INSURANCECOMPANY


3rd Annual

DENTAL APPRECIATION NIGHT

FRIDAY, MARCH 2, 2012 VAN ANDEL ARENA

Last season's event was attended by over 600 West Michigan dentists, their employees, family and friends!

Putting together a Dental Appreciation Night group is simple and easy! Start planning today by following these three easy steps: 1. Contact Zack at the Griffins office to reserve tickets for your group

2. Promote the event through emails, flyers, Facebook, etc. (we have tools to help you promote)

3. After a few weeks, call Zack to finalize your ticket order

Bring out your group of ten or more and experience:• $1 beers and $1 hot dogs from 6-8 p.m. while supplies last• Upper level tickets for just $12 each, or lower level faceoff tickets for only $14 each• The WMDDS Smile Cam on the arena's video board

For every ticket purchased though this group offer, the Griffins will donate $2 to the West Michigan Dental Foundation.

EXCLUSIVE SEAT UPGRADE Ask about the special opportunity to upgrade to Premium Lower Bowl Center seats for just $3 more.

If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact Zack Krywyj at [email protected] or 616.774.4585 ext. 3060.

Presented by

SMS/grgriffins @griffinshockeytext GRIFF to 88188for offers, info & more! griffinshockey.com616.774.4585


Major SponsorsMac Dental Lab

Henry Schein Dental

Great Lakes Financial Insurance Agency

Palm, Panek & Billups Oral Surgery

Paul Weston Financial

Hole Sponsors and Raffle SponsorsThe Bank of Holland – Founders Bank and Trust

Patterson Dental – Midmark – Dentsply NA – MDA IFG

Davis Lab – Studio 2 Dental – Dental Art Lab

Hannapel Orthodontics – OMSA of West Michigan

DentaChoice On-Site Repair – Norman Camera –

Dixon Architecture

A special thank you to our volunteers:Betsy Haller of The Bank of Holland

Dawn Norman and Shannda Ray of NFD

And to Brian Rhodes and the staff of Quail Ridge Golf Club

Save the first Friday of August every year – the prizes, the fun,

and the venue are great!

new course, a beautiful day, and a great turnout!

Quail Ridge Golf Club in Ada hosted the New Dentist

Golf Outing for the first time on August 5, 2011. The

new venue was in pristine shape and was well received by

the participants, leading to the largest contributions to-date

raised for the newly designated Bob Mitus Scholarship from

the West Michigan District Dental Foundation. Over 80 golf-

ers enjoyed the sunny, 85 degree temperatures while challeng-

ing for many great prizes and contests. Contest winners were

Andy Knowlton (2), Drew DeZwaan, Devin Norman, Brian

Mulder, and Sarah Bednarsky. The scramble event was won

by Team Norman with their ringer, Lisa Joppie.

A thunderous applause goes to the many generous sponsors

who made this day a successful fundraiser and gave everyone

a chance to leave with one of the great raffle or door prizes.

Dinner and Grand Prize Sponsor Bob MacTavish of Mac

Dental Lab provided a 50" HDTV won by Betsy Haller. Henry

Schein Dental sponsored the popular $25,000 New Car Hole-

in-One (still waiting for a winner on that one). Molly Murray

of Great Lakes Financial Insurance Agency, and Palm, Panek

& Billups Oral Surgery were also Gold Level Sponsors, provid-

ing great prizes.

N E W D E N T I S T F O R U M

New Dentist Outing Visits Quail Ridge Golf ClubBy Devin Norman, DDS, WMDF President

A


aranda’s Parks Parties and kids – what a great

combination! GRDHS gave away 5,550 bags of

toothbrushes and toothpaste (which included

1,500 floss packs) at four sites: Greenville, Lamar Park-

Wyoming, Barry County Expo Center-Hastings, and Allegan.

It was a HOT summer, but that did not stop the crowds.

This summer we bagged the products on site with help from

the TV8 interns at each site, and the Greenville High School

cheerleaders. We enjoyed the interaction, and they left with

a new appreciation of what a vendor does for a Park Party.

The West Michigan Dental Foundation provided a grant to

offset the expense of this project. Using large, two-dimensional

wooden teeth, we showed toothbrushing and flossing to the

kids as they walked through. Delta Dental donated coloring/

activity books, dental game playing cards, and posters that

provided additional dental education. We purchased addi-

tional products and received free goods through Linda Miller,

Territory Manager for P&G. Dr. Amy DeYoung, our spon-

sor for the Greenville site, donated the toothbrushes, two of

her assistants – Keri Weber and Jessica Chovanec, helped us

hand out bags, and do TBI. Hygienists who made these parties

possible for GRDHS included Traci Beals, Linda Buist, Val

Davis, JoAnne Hodder, Dawn Kamyszek, Pennie Lewis, Kathy

Roos, and Betty Wakefield.

What a great way to reach out to kids and parents alike!

Maranda’s Parks Parties is just one of GRDHS outreach to

the Grand Rapids community. I am proud to be a member.

Maranda’s Parks Parties 2011Submitted by JoAnne Hodder, RDH, BS

G R D H S N E W S

M


T R U S T E E R E P O R T

MDA Board of Trustees Summer MeetingBy Dr. Brian Cilla, MDA Trustee

ummer is fading away as I write this report about

the highlights of the MDA Board of Trustees (BOT)

summer meeting that was held at the end of June in

Traverse City. The weather was great, and some of us even

managed to sneak in a wine tour as part of our weekend.

There was a joint shareholder meeting with the BOT and

the MDA Insurance and Financial Group (MDAIFG). This

was the twenty-fifth anniversary of MDAIFG. This subsidiary

has a mission statement to “provide quality and exemplary

service for the benefit of association members.” This year,

the group generated $1,559,599 in return to the MDA in the

form of royalties, dividends, shared/reimbursed overhead

expenses, and program sponsorships. Overall, this equates to

$429 per active MDA member. The MDA staff working for

MDAIFG is nationally recognized for its service and we are

very fortunate to have these individuals conducting business

on behalf of the MDA.

On the first day of the meeting, we were introduced to

Representative Wayne Schmidt (R) and Senator Howard

Walker (R), from Traverse City. They provided the Board

with a brief update on legislative activities. It was apparent

that given our State’s current economic situation, most of

their endeavors have been centered on budgetary issues.

One of our first actions was to endorse Demandforce, Inc.

This company provides an automated patient communica-

tions system that is intended to improve patient connectivity

with dental offices. Member dentists currently utilizing this

program speak highly of the service. As a consequence, it was

felt that this would be another fine product that can be mar-

keted by MDAIFG for our members.

The Board was informed that in mid-May, the Mount

Clemens City Board voted unanimously to discontinue water

S

fluoridation. Please be aware that this is becoming a budget

issue for cities. Apparently, there are additional cities now

looking at removal of fluoride from the water supply due to

increased cost of the chemical. Unfortunately, in this eco-

nomic climate, budgetary concerns will out-trump public

health issues. This is a shortsighted view, but is a sign of the

current economic times.

Bill Sullivan, Director of Legislative and Insurance Affairs,

provided a legislative update. Of particular interest was

that the Michigan Dental Hygienists Association (MDHA)

recently submitted House Bill 4718, which would allow a

dental hygienist to supervise a dental assistant who is acting

as a second pair of hands for the dental hygienist. MDHA did

not work with the MDA or the Michigan Dental Assisting

Association (MDAA) prior to submitting the bill. MDA and

MDAA were not aware of the bill until the day it was intro-

duced. It is interesting to note that the MDHA’s legislative

representative indicated that MDHA believes the supervision

topic was addressed in the MDA’s United Voice report. The

United Voice report states that the dental hygienist supervise

a dental assistant only when placing sealants. HB 4718 is not

limited to sealants.

At the 2011 MDA House of Delegates (HOD), a resolution

was adopted regarding Healthy Kids Dental (HKD): The prin-

ciple goals of the resolution were to legislatively seek coverage

for children beginning at birth and up to a minimum of age

eight for all 83 counties in the state, and to seek inclusion of

any willing Michigan licensed dentist into the HKD Program.

At this time, our legislative liaisons feel that the MDA resolu-

tion, as currently worded, is too overly prescriptive and does

not allow much wiggle room for effective legislative negotia-

tion. However, it is important to note that Governor Snyder’s

newest budget included expansion of the HKD program to

cover an additional four counties: Mason, Oceana, Newaygo,

and Muskegon. Hopefully, we can gain more traction on

HKD expansion with the next budget cycle.

Ms. Lynn Aronoff, the Grassroots Organizer for the MDA,

provided the Board with an update on her current MDA

activities. She is working on the formation of an ongoing

grassroots organizational structure that will function much

like a political campaign. The goal is to create a format that

can be maintained throughout changes in the legislature,



as well as MDA membership. Ideally, dentists will be ready

for action if, or when, legislation affecting our profession is

being presented. We need to facilitate ongoing relationships

between MDA members and members of the legislature.

Hopefully, when dental issues occur, the legislator will contact

his or her dentist for detailed information prior to taking any

legislative action. To facilitate this process, Lynn has been

contacting MDA component leadership. Additionally, she

has been requesting information regarding in-district politi-

cal events from the various members of the State House and

Senate. It is important for the MDA to know which events

are happening in the various legislators’ districts. Anticipate

that the MDA will be asking member dentists, who are the

legislators’ actual constituents, to attend these events. Locally,

both WMDDS and MDDS have already scheduled fundrais-

ing events. This is a new approach for the MDA, and we are

definitely in the early stages of establishing a strong and effec-

tive grassroots presence. Please be aware that Lynn is open to

all suggestions about optimizing this process. Give her a call

or send her an email if you have any ideas.

Dr. Norman Palm, Chair of the Special Committee on

Access to Care, was invited to be a participant at Dr. Luke

Shaefer’s conference to explore mid-level providers (MLP)

in Michigan. This meeting took place on August 22 in Ann

Arbor. The title of this event was “lncreasing Access to Oral

Health Care in Michigan: A Discussion of Three Solutions.”

In a nutshell, the discussion topics or presentations included:

1. Access to Care: Defining the Problem;

2. Introduction of an MLP (i.e. a combined dental therapist-

dental hygienist);

3. Increasing utilization of existing modes of practice for

prevention;

4. Increasing Efficiency in the Dental Practice;

5. Collaborations between oral health providers and other

health professionals.

As one can guess, given the subjects of discussion, the tone

of this conference was tilted towards justification of MLP

utilization in order to improve access to dental care. We are

fortunate to have had Norm acting as the voice of the MDA

on this issue. His knowledge and keen interest on this subject

are second to none. The MDA intends to position itself as the

go-to authority on the topic of providing dental care to the

citizens of Michigan. The issue of mid-level dental care pro-

vider will not be going away in the foreseeable future, and we need

to be at the table whenever these matters are being discussed.

Dan Schulte, the MDA legal counsel, provided the Board

with a written report on the MDA’s lawsuit involving a den-

turist. We were also informed of a new allegation. The Board

requested that the MDA staff should meet with members of

the Michigan Board of Dentistry to discuss the recent law that

allows the Michigan Board of Dentistry to discipline non-

licensed individuals practicing dentistry and to determine its

plans for enforcing the new law.

The MDA continues to receive phone calls from mem-

bers regarding the use of Botox in a dental office. Currently,

neither the MDA nor the ADA have taken a formal position

on the subject matter. However, the MDA staff verified with

Perry Bell, from the state, that dentists administering Botox

for cosmetic purposes around the eyes/forehead are practic-

ing outside the scope of dentistry. He indicated this is viewed

as the practice of medicine. It is assumed that this opinion

does not include oral surgeons. When asked about smile

lines around the mouth, Mr. Bell has indicated that a “White

Paper” will be forthcoming. The Board was informed that the

document, rather than being a strict set of guidelines, will be

more of a coaching tool and may result in more questions

than answers. Once the Committee on Peer Review/Ethics

receives the “White Paper,” it will analyze the document and

provide a report to the Board.

It was resolved that the MDA will contribute $5,000 to the

Missouri Dental Association Joplin Disaster Relief Fund to

assist with tornado recovery efforts for Missouri dentists.

The Board reviewed the Michigan Dental Association’s

2010 audited financial statements and management letters.

The Board Committee on Finance (BCF) reviewed these

documents with the MDA auditors, Plante & Moran. Once

again, the audit ran very smoothly, with MDA staff and

management providing the necessary assistance. The BCF

also met with the auditors, without MDA staff members pres-

ent, to ask questions and to discuss the Finance Committee’s

fiduciary responsibilities and MDA internal controls. The

committee was satisfied with the 2010 audit process and the

final audit report.



Annually, the MDA Board approves the dental candidates

for Delta Dental Board of Directors. Delta’s enabling legisla-

tion stipulates that the names of the dental board members

must be approved by the MDA. The Board believes that

formal criteria should be in place for the MDA to use when

approving candidates elected to the Delta Board. Minimally,

the Board believes that it should receive a copy of the can-

didate’s curriculum vitae and have an opportunity to meet

with the nominees prior to election. Also, it believes it should

have ample time to do so before Delta seats the individuals.

Lastly, the Board believes the criteria should be applicable to

any organization for which the MDA board elects individuals.

As a consequence, the BOT resolved that the Committee on

Governmental and Insurance Affairs (CGIA) develop criteria

for the MDA Board in its duty to elect individuals to external

boards, and that the committee submit the criteria to the

Board of Trustees for approval by December 2011. I would

suggest that anyone interested in this process either submit

suitable credentialing recommendations to CGIA, or attend

their next meeting.

MDA President Connie Verhagen provided the BOT with

information on Mission of Mercy (MOM). Mission of Mercy

is a gathering of dentists, hygienists, and volunteer staff for

the purpose of providing free dental care at a two-day clinic

in a temporary dental facility. Approximately 2,000 patients

are seen at these events, and they are typically held on a week-

end. The total cost for this event is around $150,000, of which

$50,000 is for in-kind services. Usually, the state dental associ-

ation foundation conducts the fundraising for food, supplies,

etc… America’s Dentists Care Foundation is a non-profit

organization that provides and maintains all the equipment

necessary to put on a MOM event. In addition, it provides

the methods for organizing the volunteers and the expertise

to organize, set-up, run, and tear down the event. It takes

approximately 18 months to put a MOM project together.

There is an organizational handbook that provides checklists

for everything which needs to be done. As can be imagined,

it will take a large volunteer committee to bring this type of

statewide event to fruition. Dr. Verhagen is looking for mem-

bers who are passionate about an activity of this sort, and who

would be willing to help with research about whether or not

this is a project the MDA can organize and fund. Anyone who

is interested should get in touch with either Colette or myself.

President Verhagen split the last part of our meeting into

two sections: the first was a showcase of five successful com-

ponent programs that provide access to care and are models

that can be emulated by other communities. The second part

of the meeting centered on the importance of building local

alliances. John Truscott, president of Truscott Rossman, was

the moderator. Our second session was about the value and

importance of building alliances. It was intended to provide

a framework for making contacts and supply a basis for

interacting with local organizations that might have com-

mon interests in supporting initiatives that are projected to

improve oral health in our various communities. Some of the

significant reasons for local partnerships include:

∙ Taking control of oral health issues;

∙ Establishing the MDA and local components as the go-to

source for information;

∙ Branding our issues as the comprehensive answer to oral

health problems;

∙ Establishing third-party credibility;

∙ Pooling resources;

∙ Raising overall awareness about the importance of good

oral health.

The cultivation of grassroots support now will have a long-

term positive impact in the legislative arena in the future. It

is important to involve our local members with these grass-

roots efforts. MDA members need to be recognized as the

local resource for information and ideas, so that dentistry is

involved in decisions and the formulation of programs at the

ground level.

Dr. Verhagen requested that Board members provide Mr.

Thomas Kochheiser with the names of four to six dentists

who have a passion for access to care issues. The MDA would

like to create a network of dentists throughout the state who

have an interest/passion for access to care. We already know

how to round up the usual suspects. However, it would be

nice to add some new names to the list. Anyone interested

should contact either Colette or myself.

The purpose of these trustee reports is to keep our mem-

bership informed of MDA activities and relevant issues effect-

ing our profession. If you have any questions or concerns, do not

hesitate to give me a call or send an e-mail ([email protected]).


W M D D S D I R E C T O R Y U P D A T E S

2011 Directory Corrections and Additions

DIRECTORY – Changes indicated in bold

KIMBALL, THOMAS R4500 CASCADE RD SE, #200GRAND RAPIDS, MI 49546458-2011 FAX 957-1462

MONTICELLO, JOHN F1750 GRAND RIDGE CT NE, #300GRAND RAPIDS, MI 49525364-1700 FAX 364-6890(NO LOWELL OFFICE)

Boldface Denotes supporters of WMDDS through Bulletin advertising.

HENRY SCHEIN DENTAL SUPPLY CO265 LEONARD ST NWGRAND RAPIDS, MI 49504454-1212

DENTAL LABS AND SUPPLY COMPANIES– Changes indicated in bold

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

West Michigan Dental FoundationAnnual Golf Outing

Friday June 1, 2012 Egypt Valley Country Club

Watch for more information about this event!

Mission Statement: An organization dedicated to the improvement of oral health

through the financial support of education and service programs to address the

needs identified by the dental profession and the communities it serves in Kent,

Ottawa, Ionia, Mecosta and Montcalm counties.


MDA Office800-589-2632 or 517-372-90703657 Okemos Rd., Suite 200Okemos, MI 48864-3927 Dial 517 and the direct lines listed below. The last three digits of the telephone number are the extension for that staff member. Executive OfficeDrew Eason, CEO/Executive [email protected] 346-9425

Jennifer Lennemann, Assistant to the Executive [email protected]... 346-9461

Michelle Nichols-Cruz, Board/House [email protected] 346-9414

Accounting/Production/BuildingBrian Stump, Director of [email protected] 346-9407

Lori Kleinfelt, Property Manager/ Accounting [email protected] 346-9406

Jody Marquardt, Dues/Accounting [email protected] 346-9408

Dave Lutz, Internal Services [email protected] 346-9426

Continuing EducationAndrea Sundermann, CE [email protected] 346-9403

Bernie Droste, CE [email protected] 346-9401

Shawna Owens, CE [email protected] 346-9402

Professional AffairsGrace DeShaw-Wilner, Managing V.P./Professional [email protected] 346-9413

Lisa Russell Boettger, Senior Professional Review [email protected] 346-9411

Jo Ann Murphy, Senior Professional Review [email protected] 346-9430

Chris Wilson, Professional Review [email protected] 346-9409

Tammy Cauthen, Human Resources [email protected] 346-9416

Legislation/InsuranceBill Sullivan, Director, Legislative/Insurance [email protected] 346-9405

Kesha Dixon, Legislative/Insurance Affairs [email protected] 346-9452

Membership/Student AffairsJosh Lord, Director, Membership/Student [email protected] 346-9415

Sherry Bryan, Member Relations [email protected] 346-9424

Joanne Floyd, Membership [email protected] 346-9451

Patti Fox, [email protected] 346-9400

Yvonne Orrin, Membership Data [email protected] 346-9429

Publications/WebsiteDave Foe, Director, Member [email protected] 346-9421

Jeff Mertens, Communications/Technology [email protected]... 346-9460

Jackie Hammond, Publications [email protected] 346-9419

Public Relations/MarketingTom Kochheiser, Director of Public Affairs [email protected] 346-9422

April Stopczynski, Public Affairs and Legislative/Insurance Affairs [email protected] 346-9417

Care and Well Being Line517-346-9413

Michigan Dental Association FoundationLori [email protected] 346-9406

MDA Insurance800-860-2272877-906-9924 (Blue Cross calls)

Craig Start, [email protected] 346-9441

Elise Witte, Executive [email protected] 346-9445

Sabrina Rawson, Accounting [email protected] 346-9433

Health, Life, Disability Tina Voss, Program Manager, [email protected]. 346-9479

Art Brandstatter, Account [email protected] 346-9432

Denise Wyzywany, Health [email protected] 346-9450

Heidi DuMond, Health [email protected] 346-9440

Lesa Barker, Group Health [email protected] 346-9437

Crista Feldpausch, Program Manager, [email protected] 346-9447

Shawn Haindel, Life/Health [email protected] 346-9442

Craig Wyma, Account [email protected] 346-9435

Professional Liability, Practice Property and Workers’ CompensationJeff Spindler, Director, P&C [email protected] 346-9444

Tina Croley, Commercial Lines [email protected] 346-9448

Misty Ward, Account [email protected] 346-9449

Jill Anderson, Commercial Lines [email protected] 346-9456

Susan Tonelli, Commercial Lines [email protected] 346-9466

Personal Lines — Home and AutoJeni Jonckheere, Personal Lines [email protected] 346-9462

Beth Jackson, Personal Lines [email protected] 346-9443

MDA ServicesDarren Zwick, [email protected] 346-9446

Cindy Hoogasian, Marketing [email protected] 346-9467

Carol Yoshonis, Member Services [email protected] 346-9465

Nancy Williams, Customer Service/[email protected] 346-9468

Contact the MDA Office

M D A N E W S


Member FDIC

LocationsCascade Rd at Spaulding - SE

Northland Dr at Plainfi eld - NE

Monroe Ave at Louis - DowntownWilson Ave at 56th - SW

(616) 956-9030foundersbt.com

Born here.

Staying here.Growing here.

Our local bank proudly supports the dedicated West Michigan Dental Community.

MDA Launches New Online Legislative Action Center

In early September, the MDA launched a Legislative

Action Center at www.smilemichigan.com (dental profes-

sionals area) for its members. To find it, just click on the

new “Legislative” link at the top of the page.

The new Legislative Action Center contains the latest

legislative information, plus online tools to help you take

an active, timely role in the political process. The MDA

Legislative Action Center will help you:

Find your elected officials. Just enter your zip code to

locate your elected officials. From there, you can see each

legislator’s bio page, containing direct links to contact

information, key votes and bills, and staff information.

View key legislation. The MDA Legislative Action Center

helps you easily see all the votes, bills, and issues that affect

dentists, not only in Michigan, but even across the nation.

Take action on issues that impact your practice. The

MDA will post action alerts that encourage you to send

personalized messages to elected officials. Now you can

easily let them know what you think about important issues

that affect dentistry as a whole, and your dental practice

in particular.

Send letters to the editor. The Legislative Action Center

Media Guide allows you to easily send letters to the editors

of local and national newspapers and magazines. If you

think the public should know about an issue, you can influ-

ence public opinion with a few easy clicks.

The Legislative Action Center also contains policy tools,

such as a listing of state officials and agencies, an election

guide, and information on state legislative basic. There’s

also an email link where you can forward the latest legisla-

tive news and alerts to your friends, family and neighbors.

As a WMDDS member, you will soon be receiving

updates and sample communications from the MDA on

top legislative issues via email. If you don’t receive these

messages, the MDA does not have your current email

address. To update your email address, just send an e-mail

to [email protected].


Established Dental Office Space –

2003 Burton SE (between Breton and

Plymouth). End unit with 720 sq. ft.

and a full basement, on-site parking,

adjacent 3 spaces occupied by estab-

lished dentists. Great traffic counts on

Burton in an established residential

area. Call Bruce at 942.9492.

Dental Office for Lease – Sparta,

MI. 2,000 sq ft., includes two x-ray

machines, vacuum extraction, cabine-

try, laboratory. $1,350 plus utilities.

Traffic flow/14,000 daily. 616.874.4192.

RediDental: Now hiring part-time

dentists for evening and weekend

hours at our Holland location. We

offer guaranteed pay and flexible

hours to work around your schedule.

Please email Ryan Lebster at

[email protected]. Positions are

available immediately.

Associate position wanted – Newly

graduated dentist from UDM looking

for full time position as an associate

of progressive dental practice in

Grand Rapids and surrounding areas.

Please call 616.617.9725 or email

[email protected].

Office Space for Lease – Up to 6900

S.F. available; will divide. Basement

storage available. Newer class A

building. Great visibility! Located at

1151 East Paris Ave SE (across from

Bonefish Grill). Owner occupied.

Call Dr. Sam Bander 616.949.5980 or

e-mail [email protected]. Visit

www.drsambander.com to take a look.

Dental Office for Lease – Rockford,

MI. 1,000 sq ft, includes some dental

equipment and furnishings. $675/mo.,

plus utilities. Traffic flow/10,000 daily.

616.874.5300.

Practice Wanted – Experienced

general dentists wish to grow existing

practice through buy-out or merger.

Greater Grand Rapids. All options

considered. Contact

[email protected].

Dental Office for Lease – Time to

move up? Busy northeast area dental

suite at 1750 Grand Ridge Ct. NE,

3295 SF, ten-year old modern dental

office available. 3 pvt ops, 4 chair bay

area, plumbed for nitrous, air, water,

power and vacuum, lab, x-ray, staff

area, pvt. office, reception, storage

available. Former pedo practice

obtainable Jan. 1st 2011. Contact

Dr. John Monticello 616.364.1700 or

[email protected]

Associate Position/Practice for Sale Wanted: General dentist with 13 years

experience looking for a place to prac-

tice in the Grand Rapids and surround-

ing east areas. Open to all options.

Please email to [email protected].

General Dentist Seeking Associate Position in Grand Rapids area –

General dentist residing in the Grand

Rapids area is seeking an associate

position for 1-2 days per week in the

Grand Rapids and surrounding area.

If you are looking for an associate for

your practice, please call 616.975.2870.

REF # GR Associate.

C L A S S I F I E D A D S

The classified ad rate is $10.00 up to and including 30 words; additional words 15¢ each. Space permitting, WMDDS members may

place ads free of charge as a membership service. Ads should be submitted in writing and sent with payment to Elaine Fleming,

WMDDS, 511-F Waters Building, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. Telephone numbers and hyphenations count as two words, abbrevia-

tions count as one word. Ads received after the first of the month prior to publication may appear in the following issue.

Practice Merger Opportunity – Grand Rapids – Looking to transition

your patient care? General Dentist in

the Grand Rapids area is seeking an

opportunity to bring in an additional

patient base (up to 1,000 patients)

into existing practice. Opportunity for

doctor transition is also negotiable.

If you are interested in this unique

opportunity, call 616.975.2870. REF #

GR Practice Merger.

Dental Equipment for Sale – One

DEN-TAL-EZ model JSR taupe dental

chair, one of the most desired chairs

on the market; four recessed (in wall)

Rinn x-ray view boxes – can be pur-

chased separately or together; one

Biotec dental pass-through housing

for x-ray arm to be used between two

operatories. Please contact Joseph

Ellis, D.D.S. or Lisa Tartaglione-Ellis,

D.D.S. at 616.949.7290 or

[email protected].

Northwest Michigan – Modern fee-

for-service, general dental office

averaging over $600K/yr with

solid net on 3.5 days/wk. Beautiful

Lake Michigan resort town. Digital

Radiology and laser included. Building

with recent remodel also available.

Call Phil Stark 888.477.7325 or visit

www.peakdental.com

P/T Dentist needed in Grand Rapids nursing home two days per week. No equipment needed. Please email

CV to [email protected] or call

231.733.1224.


C L A S S I F I E D A D S

The Bulletin wishes to thank our valued

advertisers who support organized

dentistry by helping to defray the cost

of printing and mailing.

Advertising in the Bulletin is seen

by over 90% of the dentists in the

West Michigan District. This includes

five of the fastest growing counties

in the state: Kent, Ottawa, Ionia,

Montcalm and Mecosta.

For information on advertising rates,

call Elaine Fleming, WMDDS Executive

Secretary at 234-5605. Target your Market

– advertise in the Bulletin!

Aspen Dental .......................................9

DDS Integration .... outside back cover

Davis Dental

Laboratory ............... inside front cover

Founders Bank & Trust ....................25

Great Lakes Financial Insurance ......28

Henry Schein ............inside back cover

MDA IFG ...........................................15

ProNational .......................................13

Professional Solutions ......................16

A D V E R T I S E R I N D E XCurrent student at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry –

graduating May 2011, looking for

full-time or part-time position in a

private practice as an associate in the

Grand Rapids and surrounding areas.

Please contact 954.562.1122 or

[email protected].

Associate Dentist Wanted – Mid-

Michigan. We are seeking an associate

dentist to join our growing $2M+

practice. Our two dentists have been

serving the community for over 40

years. Applicant must be friendly, per-

sonable, reliable, flexible and open to

change. Proficiency in cosmetic den-

tistry, oral surgery, endodontics and

prosthodontics is a plus. Opportunity

to become partner available to the

right applicant. Please send resumé

and letter of application to

[email protected].

Dental Office for Lease – Sparta, MI.

Classy, finely appointed 1900 sq. ft.

dental suite. $8.00 per sq. ft. ($1267

per month). Recent $70,000 interior

renovations. Vacuum extraction

equipment, two X-ray machines, one

dental chair, laboratory, dark room,

cabinetry, etc. Huge road-side sign.

Traffic flow 14,265 vehicles daily.

616.887.8974.

For Sale – Several items from ortho-

dontic office. Siemens 10E Pan/Ceph

x-ray, Ritter PA x-ray, Phillips 810

processor, treatment chairs and stools,

reception room furniture, file cabinets,

Chemclave and more. Call 616.538.3545

anytime for more information.

Live your dream on Lake Michigan. Perfect town, perfect location to start

your practice. 1000 to 1500 square

feet available. Grand Haven, MI. Call

616.846.5330.

Live and practice just three miles from Pere Marquette Park’s sandy beaches in Muskegon Michigan. Suite in high visibility (6,000 cars/day)

single-story, stand-alone professional

building adjoining middle class, old-

school residential neighborhood (walk

to work). Perfect environment to

start a practice, raise a family, retire,

or simply enjoy surf, sand, beach.

Preferential Terms for certain under-

served specialties. Ample free on-site

parking, 70 sq. ft. of signage near

road. Contact Jerome Dewald at

[email protected]

or view photos at

http://muskegon.craigslist.org/off/.

General Dentist – Looking to pur-

chase a practice along the lakeshore

(Grand Haven, Holland, Saugatuck

area) or Grand Rapids area. Please

contact [email protected].


o you remember that Michigan Bell Ad, “Reach Out

and Touch Someone,” encouraging us to phone our

family and friends and touch their lives on a personal

note? Unfortunately, in today’s society, “touching someone”

has other connotations associated with it. However, for this

Life Lesson, I am sharing how someone special to me touched

my life.

On the first anniversary of my husband’s death, I had a

dream. I was sitting at a table outside at a family event with

several other people nearby. Russ sat down across from me

and held my left hand in his hand. We talked for awhile and

then he said he had to go. I said, “OK,” and then I woke up.

My first thought was, “I was dreaming of Russ.” Then I real-

ized I could still feel him holding my hand. I could feel the

calluses on his hand as they pressed into my hand. For a long

time after, I had that sensation. And then I remembered how

much I missed his touch. I cried for a long time.

Sometimes life gets so busy that we forget the little things,

like shaking someone’s hand when we meet him/her or giv-

ing a little pat on the shoulder, a hug (if appropriate), or even

smiling and saying “Hi!” Something personal from us that is

not intrusive, but says “I care.”

Reach Out and Touch SomeoneSubmitted by JoAnne Hodder, RDH, BS

L I F E L E S S O N # 6

D

WEST MICHIGAN DENTAL SOCIETY

511-F Waters Building

Grand Rapids, MI 49503

PRSRT STDUS POSTAGE

PAIDGRAND RAPIDS, MI

PERMIT # 657

2011 wmdds fall bulletin

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