document

Bulletin

FALL ISSUE 2009VOL. 42, NO. 1

WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | FALL ISSUE 2009 1

Contents

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

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

Trustee Report from Dr. Brian Cilla ........................................................................... 4

Trustee Report from Dr. Norm Palm.......................................................................... 6

WMDDS Notice of Election........................................................................................ 9

Adult Dental Services Program ...................................................................................11

Tooth Time 2010 ..........................................................................................................13

2009 New Dentist Golf Outing ...................................................................................15

School News .................................................................................................................16

WMDDS 2009 Directory Updates ..............................................................................18

Community Dental Health Outreach .........................................................................20

In Memoriam ...............................................................................................................20

Advertiser Index ...........................................................................................................21

Classified Ads................................................................................................................22

West Michigan District Dental Society Steel Water Award .......................................24

Editor James Papp

Associate Editors Seth VrugginkJeff SmithAric SmithLarrisa BishopSheryl Jenicke

Advertising Editor Elaine FlemingExecutive SecretaryWMDDS511-F Waters BuildingGrand Rapids, MI 49503(616) [email protected]

West Michigan District Dental SocietyExecutive Board 2009-2010President Douglas KleinPresident-Elect Seth VrugginkVice President Larissa BishopSecretary-Treasurer Ryan LebsterEditor James PappImmediate Past

PresidentDoug Killian

Directors Tyler WolfChristopher MorganSamuel Bander

Area RepresentativesKent County David ArmbrechtIonia-Montcalm

Kathleen EllsworthCountyMecosta County Margaret GingrichOttawa County Thomas Phares

MDA IV District Norman PalmTrustees Brian Cilla

Big Rapids Dental Study Club Officers, 2009-2010President Erick PerroudVice President Christa SternSecretary Christa SternTreasurer Erick Perroud

Holland-Zeeland Dental Society Officers, 2009-2010President Meredith SmedleyTreasurer Robert AnkermanSecretaryImmediate Past

President

Ionia-Montcalm Dental Study Club Officers, 2008-2009President Chris MorganTreasurer Kirkwood Faber

Kent County Dental Society Officers, 2009-2010President Brant ErbentrautVice President David ArmbrechtSecretary Lathe MillerTreasurer

West Michigan Dental Foundation OfficersPresident Donald Vander LindeVice President Matthew GietzenSecretary Devin NormanTreasurer Carl Kruyswyk

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

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

© 2009-2010 West Michigan District DentalSociety Bulletin

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

About the cover

Photo courtesy of Dr. Aric Smith

WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | FALL ISSUE 2009

was recently sitting at a blackjack table with former

MDA President, Dr. Steve Dater, talking all-things dental

politics. After the dealer took the last of my chips, my

shirt, and my dignity, I couldn’t help but wonder, how much

did I just lose? How am I talking dental politics with an MDA

president? How am I president of the WMDDS? How did it

come to this? In case you’re asking yourself the same ques-

tion… here’s the story. Incidentally, Steve confiscated my belt

and shoelaces in case I decided to “do something foolish”…

but that’s a whole ‘nother story.

As I mentioned in my previous message, my involvement

in organized dentistry is one of the most enjoyable things I’ve

done in my career. If someone had told me this when I started

practicing in West Michigan 12 years ago, I would have been

skeptical. It’s fair to say that getting involved with organized

dentistry was not on my radar at that time. My energy was

being diverted into starting a practice and starting a family –

a time in our lives to which many of us can surely relate.

My involvement in organized dentistry began with little

fanfare – a simple cold-call inviting me to serve as a delegate

from West Michigan to the MDA House of Delegates. To this

day, I’m still not certain what made me say yes, but I’m pretty

sure the sleep deprivation that comes with a newborn was a

factor. I guess working in an office with three WMDDS past-

presidents might have factored in there, too. But who’s to say?

I decided it was time to start giving back and here was my

chance to “dip my toes in.” It was during that first fateful trip

to Detroit in 2001 that I came across Dr. Dater holding court

on a blackjack table at Greektown Casino. Six hours and $250

later I was well-versed in blackjack strategy, but completely in

the dark regarding Sturgis’ Rules of Parliamentary Order. The

rest is history…

Eight years later, I’m still on the delegation and still enjoy-

ing it (and still a little hazy about parliamentary rules). I was

enjoying my experience on the delegation so much I also

agreed to serve on the Kent County Dental Society board

(again, a cold-call) and have served on the WMDDS board

since 2004. So much for dipping my toes in, but I’ve never

regretted accepting that invitation for a second! I’ve gotten to

work with some tremendous leaders in our profession and have

seen several of them elected to state offices: Dr. Steve Dater

(MDA President – 2007), Dr. Deb Peters (MDA Speaker of the

House – 2008) and Dr. Connie Verhagen (MDA President –

2010). I’m excited at the opportunity to be part of Chris

Smiley’s campaign for Editor of the MDA Journal. You’ll be

hearing more about Chris and his campaign in future

Bulletins. I’ve made some great friends in West MI and around

the state (not an easy task for a Buckeye) and have also raised

my awareness of the myriad of issues facing dentistry and

their relevance to my everyday practice.

As your WMDDS president, there are a few housekeeping

projects I am eager to see reach fruition this year. Admittedly,

they’re not the most glamorous projects, but necessary

nonetheless. The WMDDS executive committee and standing

committee chairpersons have been working for several months

on the creation of Committee Orientation Workbooks and

Committee Operating Manuals. These documents “organize

the organization” by clarifying and consolidating the purpose

and scope of each of our standing committees. In other words,

these documents provide future boards and committee volun-

teers with a detailed understanding of each committee and

the role of each committee member. Our goal is improve the

“volunteer experience” and ensure smooth operation of all

WMDDS committees.

In case you couldn’t tell, yes, this is indeed a call to action

for WMDDS members. Organized dentistry needs volunteers.

WMDDS needs volunteers! Join a committee, become a dele-

gate, volunteer at Tooth Time or Give Kids A Smile, play in the

New Dentist or WMDF golf outing. Just get involved. Dip

your toes in or dive in head first! Don’t be afraid to take that

next cold-call… don’t refuse that invitation… who knows

where it might lead you!

2

P R E S I D E N T ’ S M E S S A G E

Thoughts From the PresidentBy Dr. Douglas R. Klein, WMDDS President

I


rganized dentistry. The ADA describes the term as

combined efforts of all the organizations that work

to positively contribute to the dental profession.

This includes efforts of ADA members, staff, and supporters at

the local, state, and national levels. Through these organized

systems, we can advance the profession and better serve the

public.

As I begin my three year “journey” as your editor, and hav-

ing the opportunity to attend local board meetings, I have

started to get a taste of what organized dentistry really does

for us as a dental community. I have been thoroughly

impressed by the tireless efforts of our current local represen-

tatives, many of whom you see on a regular basis in this

Bulletin. Our representatives, in my opinion, have our best

interests in mind volunteering a great number of hours away

from their families and own interests to help protect our pro-

fession. And to be honest, until participating in board meet-

ings, I had no clue just how many issues are out there that

could/may directly affect our daily practice.

I personally recommend to any dentist to get involved at

some level with organized dentistry. Coming from a previous

skeptic, now converted advocate, I am starting to see the

difference we can make in our profession.

Helping Us SucceedBy Dr. James C. Papp, WMDDS Editor

O

E D I T O R ’ S T H O U G H T SMDA Staff Moves to NewOkemos HeadquartersThe Michigan Dental Association is now in business atits new headquarters, located at 3657 Okemos Rd. nearthe I-96/Okemos Rd. exit in suburban MeridianTownship, about 10 miles east of downtown Lansing.

The MDA, MDA Insurance and MDA Services staffmoved into the new MDA-owned structure Aug. 28. Thestaff had previously housed in the former MDA buildingin downtown Lansing, which was built in 1970. TheMDA recently sold its downtown Lansing property to aLansing-area developer.

All phone numbers will remain the same at the newlocation. Here is the new contact information for theMDA and its subsidiaries:

Michigan Dental Association 3657 Okemos Rd., Suite 200Okemos, MI 48864-3927800.589-2632517.372.9070517.372.0008 (fax)517.372.6704 (CE dept. only)

MDA Insurance3657 Okemos Rd., Suite 100Okemos, MI 48864-3927800.860.2272517.484.6765517.484.5460 (fax)

MDA Services 3657 Okemos Rd., Suite 100Okemos, MI 48864-3927800.860.2272517.484.6765517.484.5460 (fax)

Michigan Dental Association Foundation3657 Okemos Rd., Suite 200Okemos, MI 48864-3927800.589.2632517.372.9070517.484.5460 (fax)

Driving directions to the new MDA headquarters areavailable on the MDA Web site at www.smilemichigan.com(dental professionals area). For a video tour of the newMDA headquarters, see the MDA’s YouTube site atwww.youtube.com/michdentists.


hope that everyone had an opportunity to enjoy the

summer. It sure went by fast. Now, as I write this report,

fall has commenced and football season has officially

arrived (Go Blue!) The MDA Board of Trustees (BOT) met

in June and September. Additionally, there was an Executive

Committee session in August. Highlights of these meetings

are as follows:

• Discussions were held regarding ethics, the law, and our peer

review system. The MDA has a code of ethics, which covers

a variety of areas concerning professional conduct. Our

standards for MDA members govern actions that might

not be illegal, but are of ethical concern. The peer review

process has been modified in order to allow committee

members to address untreated and/or undiagnosed find-

ings. The new policy allows for clarification of whether or

not the treating dentist was aware of the condition and if

the patient has been informed of the potential dental need.

• MDAIFG is the for-profit arm of the MDA. Revenue is

generated from royalties, dividends, sponsorship arrange-

ments, and reimbursed overhead expenses. Most recently

this group has contributed almost 1.5 million dollars in

non-dues revenue back to the MDA. This is equivalent to

$388 per active member. Congratulations are in order to

Craig Start and his staff for this fine work. These efforts

help the MDA manage the cost of membership.

• The MDAIFG has been able to hold the line on insurance

premiums. There will not be an annual increase this

upcoming renewal period for members purchasing their

Blue Cross health insurance through the MDA. Also, a new

high deductible plan will be introduced which might be of

interest for those members who have an HSA.

• Deliberations were conducted regarding the MDA strategic

plan. It was resolved that these goals would be actively pursued:

a. Increase non-dues revenues.

b. Increase membership to 5.5% above the ADA national

market share.

c. Identify practice management needs for the MDA

members.

d. Revise organizational structure to promote operational

efficiencies.

e. Increase advocacy, education, and awareness on third-

party payor relationships.

f. Be the authority in addressing access to care issues in

dentistry.

• There have been ongoing negotiations to finalize MDA

endorsements for the Mercer 360 Financial Planning

Program and amalgam separators/waste management by

the Solmetex and DRNA companies.

• The MDA officially supports the Points of Light Program.

This is an endeavor, which seeks to bring dentists and

physicians together in order to encourage coordinated oral

health intervention and accessibility beginning at an early age.

• In the future, all recommendations or proposals being

presented to the MDA HOD for deliberation will include

an estimate of the potential financial implications.

• Dr. Jed Jacobson, of Delta Dental, presented information

regarding a pilot program called Beyond Dental. This is

being developed by Delta as a mechanism for screening and

referral of previously undiagnosed diabetic and hyper -

tensive patients. The initial plan is designed to recruit

twenty-five dental offices in the Lansing area for participa-

tion with the program. A health care coordinator will arrange

medical referral and provide feedback to the dentist.

• There is a pending piece of legislation which would man-

date automatic license revocation for a conviction of any

form of sexual misconduct. As proposed, this Bill would tie

the regulatory hands of the State Board of Dentistry. The

BOT is opposed to the current draft of this Bill and has

advocated lobbying with the Michigan State Medical

Society in order to achieve acceptable legislative language

and to ensure that all licensed professionals are treated

equally.

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

MDA Trustee UpdateBy Dr. Brian Cilla, MDA Trustee

I


• Of particular concern for many members is the loss of

dental insurance for their patients. Tom Kochhieser, director

of marketing and public relations for the MDA, has worked

with our marketplace research firm (SMZ) in order to con-

duct focus groups with retired UAW members and dentists.

It was found that the UAW retirees were upset with the

union. Additionally, they did not seem to be interested in

purchasing dental insurance. Most of this group desired to

discuss personal circumstances and dental fees with their

dentist. Importantly, the UAW retirees liked an MDA draft

letter, which explained the importance of good oral health.

At the present time, the dentists participating in this pre-

liminary study were taking a wait and see approach to eval-

uate how their patients are reacting to loss of dental insurance

benefits. They expressed a desire to see ongoing patient

directed communications regarding the role of dentistry

and overall health. I suspect that this is a particularly rele-

vant issue, which will be an integral part of ongoing MDA

public relation efforts.

• The optional Dental PAC and Michigan Dental Foundation

contributions will be included on our annual dues statement

this year. All members are encouraged to continue with their

ongoing support of these entities.

Personally, I believe that the Dental PAC is more relevant than

ever. Individually our profession can be ignored, however, our

collective voice (especially with our relatively high statewide

membership participation) is much more difficult to ignore.

We can hardly afford, especially in these trying times, to let

our guard down. Public health care policies are currently

being debated. There is potential risk that the role of dentistry

will be defined and/or determined by those who don’t neces-

sarily understand or appreciate our professional concerns

regarding the needs of our patients and the delivery of dental

services.

In Michigan, there is a State House Bill that proposes a tax on

medical services to help fund Medicaid. So far dentists are not

included. However, there has been discreet lobbying by inter-

ested parties for a similar dental service tax in order to enhance

Michigan Medicaid dental benefits. Please be aware that the

MDA is strongly against any new taxes on dental services and

will take an active role in opposing this type of legislation.

Various MDA representatives and staff went to Washington

DC to lobby on our behalf regarding the pending health care

reform bill. Subsequently, Senator Debbie Stabenow intro-

duced an amendment that would allow dental insurance com-

panies the ability to participate and compete if a dental health

component is mandated.

A long arduous process has been completed. The old MDA

headquarters has finally been sold. No more HVAC or asbestos

containment issues lurking in the background (Dr. Steve Dater

can finally breathe a sigh of relief). Our new building has been

completed on time and on budget. The MDA staff made an

uneventful, rapid transition to their new offices in September.

They are elated with the new setting and look forward to pro-

viding the same exemplary service as always.

There are many current issues that have potential to impact

the dental profession and our practices. Fortunately the MDA

is a strong, member-driven organization. In particular, Muskegon

and West Michigan dental societies have done an admirable

job in recruiting and maintaining an active membership.

Participation of our members, at both the local and state

levels, continues to be encouraged. As your MDA trustee, I am

interested in member concerns or opinions. Do not hesitate to

call or write ([email protected]) regarding any topics or issues

which you feel need to be addressed.



trustees, if you would like greater detail on any of the informa-

tion that follows. I will list the resolutions by the five Reference

Committees in which they were considered. Reference

Committees audit comment on proposed resolutions before

the House and make recommendations and modifications to

resolutions based on testimony made before the Committee.

The Reference Committees complete their work with a rec-

ommendation to the House on how to act on each resolution.

Legal, Legislative, and Public Affairs Matters• Adopted a statement of patent rights and responsibilities

• Amended the interpretation and application of the Principles

of Ethics and Code of Professional Conduct

• Urged reform of ERISA that exempt some health plans

from state regulation

• Adopted a resolution requesting that the amount of interest

on student loans that is deductible from income tax be raised

and not be capped by income level

• Urged ADA to offer student loan contract analysis

• Ask federal agencies to restrict access to non-nutritious

foods as part of federally-funded food assistance programs

• Adopted a proposal to Develop an Action Plan to Enhance

Professionalism in Dentistry

• Adopted a resolution seeking to stop dental plans from

setting maximum fees for non-covered services

• Adopted a statement on Health Care Reform that, among

other things, includes market-based solutions that support

dental care as it is now delivered in multiple delivery settings

• Amended the Code of Conduct and adopted a member

Dentists’ Rights and Responsibilities

Dental Education and Related Matters• Amended the requirement for recognition of dental

specialties and national certifying boards

• Referred to the Board of Trustees for further study a pro-

posal to develop a new part three to the Dental National

Boards eliminating live patients for licensure exams

• Referred to the Council on Dental Education and Licensure

for further study a proposal recognizing non-specialty

interest areas in general dentistry

• Adopted a proposal to study placing the ADA library on

the web


Actions of the ADA House of Delegates in OctoberBy Dr. Norm Palm, MDA Trustee

ello to all, and I hope this report finds you, your

family, and practice doing well. This report will

cover the actions of the ADA House of Delegates,

which met October 2 thru 6 in Honolulu. The session marked

the 150th anniversary of the American Dental Association,

and it was a well attended meeting. In our delegation from

West Michigan and representing Michigan in the Ninth ADA

district besides myself were Brian Cilla, Deb Peters, Ryan

Lebster, Connie Verhagen, Steve Dater, and Chris Smiley. My

personal thanks to them as we all worked to represent you, the

member dentist, at the ADA level.

Before I start listing some of the resolutions that were

adopted I want to stop and congratulate Dr. Ray Gist from

Flint on his election by the ADA House as President Elect of

the American Dental Association in a contested three-way

race. Ray has distinguished himself as an ADA trustee the last

number of years after completing his term as MDA president

in 2003-2004. If you don’t know Ray, I can tell you that his

affable manner and soft-spoken voice belies his steadiness and

personal sense of resolve, strengths which are part of his many

talents that will allow him to be an effective ADA president.

His calm demeanor and wide smile will serve him and all of

us well as he accepts the challenges that presiding over the

ADA will bring. Congratulations, Ray, we are all proud of you

and your accomplishment on becoming the first ADA presi-

dent from Michigan since 1960.

I have counted almost one-hundred resolutions and reports

that were before this House of Delegates. The summary list

that follows includes those actions of likely interest to you.

Certainly contact me or Brian Cilla, as your West Michigan

H


• Supported further the ADA Committee to Monitor and

Assist the Council on Dental Accreditation on the imple-

mentation of 2008 ADA Task Force recommendations

regarding CODA

• Supported a new initiative to develop an examination to

evaluate the competency of dental school seniors and grad-

uates by quantitative examination scores to be used by

post-graduate programs and applicants

• Supported further work determining the equivalency for

international pre-doctoral dental education programs

seeking CODA accreditation

• Amended the By-Laws that define the composition of the

Council on Dental Education and Licensure

Dental Benefits, Practice, Science and Health• Amended the “Guidelines on Coordination of Benefits for

Group Dental Plans”

• Adopted an amended policy on the “Report of Dental

Procedures to Third Parties”

• Adopted a tobacco free schools resolution

• Supported a resolution defining Principles for Application

Risk Assessments in Dental Benefit Plans

• Referred for further study the “Comprehensive Policy

Statement on Allied Dental Personnel”

• Referred for further study “Opposition to Pilot Programs

Which Allow Non-dentists to Diagnose Dental Needs or

Perform Irreversible Procedures”

• Amended “ADA’s Position on New Members of the Dental

Team”

• Authorized an ad hoc committee on Health Literacy in

Dentistry to assist the Council on Access, Prevention, and

Inter-professional Relations in strategic planning to

improve oral health literacy

• Adopted a Statement on Reporting Fees on Dental Claims

• Referred for further study a Warning on Medications That

Cause Dry Mouth

• Adopted a resolution on Prevention of Bisphosphonate –

Associated Osteonecrosis of the Jaw

• Approved a resolution on education of Human Resource

Professionals on the Value of Dental Benefits

• Endorsed a resolution on Use of Terms “Usual, Reasonable,

and Customary”


• Adopted Guidelines for Self-applied Tooth Whitening

Products

• Enacted a Resolution Opposing External Determination of

Fees for Non-Covered Dental Services

• Urged the Development of a Standard for Secure Electronic

Transmission of Digital Radiographs

Membership and Planning• Urged New Dentist Involvement in Volunteer Leadership

• Defeated a call for an ADA Governance and Strategic

Planning Review

• Adopted a resolution calling for an ADA Specialty Logo

• Enacted a call for the Promotion of Activities for Retired

Members

Budget, Business and Administrative Matters• Adopted a 2010 budget of $114,836,450

• Maintained 2010 dues at $498

• Defeated a resolution calling for a Triennial Forensic

Financial and Management Audit

• Supported further an Electronic Format for the ADA

House of Delegates by 2012

• Adopted Guidelines for Selecting an Executive Director

• Referred several resolutions including Consequences for

Violation of Attorney-Client Privilege in Executive Session,

Qualifications for Candidates for Elective and Appointive

Office, and Development of Enabling Language to Define

Mechanisms for Sanctions and Hearings

• Established a Special Committee to Determine Duties of a

New Council on Association and Financial Affairs

• Set policy on the Appointment of an Interim Executive

Director

• Modified existing policy on the Hiring of Consultants

• Adopted a resolution calling for specific items of Budget

Clarity

• Authorized a Review of Health Credit Cards/Patient

Financing Programs

• Called for a review of ADA Employees’ Retirement Plans

and also ADA Investment Policy of reserve funds

• Referred to the appropriate agency parts of a complicated

resolution on Transparency of the ADA



The House had an extensive attorney-client session with

ADA and outside counsel. Prior to arrival in Honolulu, dele-

gates had received detailed disclosures that were the topic of

our attorney-client sessions. The information discussed is

privileged, as the reports and discussions contained our attor-

ney’s advice on numerous ADA matters. In order to protect

the ADA’s legal interests, the privilege must be maintained.

Any disclosure of reports outside of those covered by the priv-

ilege could result in loss. Loss of the privilege could potentially

result in the compelled public disclosure of the reports and

of the discussions between the House and counsel as well as

opening the materials to litigation opponents of the ADA.

What I can give you is a brief, generic report at this time on

what has happened.

Early in 2009, the ADA Board of Trustees became aware of

irregularities within the ADA and our for-profit subsidiary,

ADA Business Enterprises Incorporated (ADABEI). The Board

hired outside counsel, who hired an external auditing firm as

part of the investigation process. A forensic audit of the entire

ADA was completed. The investigation led the ADA Board to

take actions regarding inappropriate activities of some ADA

staff and a thorough review of the financial controls within the

ADA and ADABEI. ADABEI’s Board has been restruc tured. A

new Chief Financial Officer and Chief Technology officer have

been hired. Corrective actions have included making whole

customer/members on their previous payments for services

that were not satisfactorily provided. The costs to ADABEI and

the ADA continue and are substantial.

As time passes, more information will become available.

Look for this information in the ADA News. If you have ques-

tions, I will try to answer them within the limits imposed on me

by the attorney-client privilege. At this time, I have full confi-

dence in our new Executive Director, Dr. Kathleen O’Laughlin,

the ADA Board, and our Counsel in place at the ADA. Thanks

for reading this report and staying informed.

Norm Palm

[email protected]


West Michigan District Dental SocietyNotice 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 2010 Michigan Dental Association

House of Delegates and WMDDS offices for 2010-2011. 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 2010 MDA House of Delegates and the

remaining will serve a one-year term as Alternate Delegates.

Dr. Brian Mulder Dr. Chris Morgan Dr. Leonard Bartoszewicz

Dr. Steve Conlon Dr. Kirkwood Faber Dr. Margaret Gingrich

Dr. James Hur Dr. Kathleen Ellsworth Dr. Suzanne Port

Dr. Kathryn Swan

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

Dr. Doug Klein, chair Dr. Seth Vruggink Dr. Larissa Bishop

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

Dr. Karen O’Rourke

(Drs. Klein, Vruggink and Bishop are automatic seats. Drs. Bander, Gietzen, Lebster and O’Rourke 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 2010-

2011:

Dr. Seth Vruggink, President

Dr. Larissa Bishop, President-elect

Dr. Tyler Wolf, Vice President

Dr. Ryan Lebster, Secretary/Treasurer

Dr. Steve Conlon, 1st year Director

Dr. Sam Bander, 2nd year Director

Dr. Chris Morgan, 3rd 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 10, 2009 to the chairperson of the

Nominations Committee, Dr. Doug Killian, 7255 Nine Mile Road, PO Box 236, Mecosta MI 49332.


Presented by John A. Molinari, PhD | Friday, January 8, 2010Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park | 8:00am to 4:00pm | 7 CEU’sGet your note pads ready as Dr. Molinari is going attack two hot topics and provide us with information we can use everysingle day. Bring the entire staff and get your office up to date with the most recent scientific evidence presented in a funand even occasionally hands-on fashion. First, Dr. Molinari will be tackling a topic that affects every single patient in our offices. In December 2003, the U.S.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention published their most recent Guidelines for Infection Control in Dentistry. That document, along with the incredible amount of accumulated data regarding healthcare risks and preventive measures, will serve as the framework for this presentation. The most recent evidence-based

information will be discussed to address certain issues where perceptions and misuse of infection control procedures and products are in conflict withscientific and clinical knowledge. A major goal of this presentation is an understanding by both dentists and staff of the “why” and the “what” ofinfection control practices.

Next, Dr. Molinari will address the topic of vaccination recommendations for both health care professionals as well as the general public. Emphasis willbe placed on vaccines used for prevention of adult infectious disease, especially those with increased occupational risks for health care workers. Dr.Molinari will wade through the myths and misperceptions about vaccines that are preventing individuals from getting recommended vaccinations.Attendees will leave armed with the correct clinical and science based information to protect both them selves and their patients. There will also be aportion of the course dedicated to the recent H1N1 flu pandemics and how they should affect our actions as health care professionals.

Dr. Molinari received a B.A. in Biology from St. Vincent College and a Ph.D. in Microbiology from the University of Pittsburgh School of DentalMedicine. He is a former Professor and Chairman of the Department of Biomedical Sciences at the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry.Recently, Dr. Molinari decided to join The Dental Advisor as their Director of Infection Control.

For additional information and registration, call Elaine Fleming at 616.234.5605.

PresentsInfection Control: That Thing You Do – Why Do You Do It?

Vaccination Recommendations for Healthcare Professionals: Science, Success and Misperceptions

West Michigan District Dental Society is an ADA CERP Recognized Provider.

PAY BY CREDIT CARD: � VISA � Mastercard � Discover

CREDIT CARD # EXPIRATION DATE

SIGNATURE

Registration FormJohn A. Molinari, PhD | Friday, January 8, 2010 | Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

NAME

ADDRESS

ADDITIONAL REGISTRANT(S) AT THIS ADDRESS

per MDA-member dentist – $225

1st staff member – $100

2nd—5th staff members – $90 each

6th—12th staff members – $90 each

13th staff member and over – $80 each

per non-member dentist – $450

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.


A D S P N E W S

y name is Rose Holmgren and I have been the

Adult Dental Services Program (ADSP) Facilitator

for the past four years. I would like to take a

moment to give a brief update on the Adult Dental Services

Program and thank all the ADSP providers for your contribu-

tions and hard work.

This past year, ADSP has treated over 180 patients and we

now have 147 donating providers! The approximate amount

that our providers donated just last year was almost $300,000,

with Cherry Street Health Services donating almost $22,000

for patient exams. We will continue to grow, especially with

the poor economy.

I would like to ask those of you who would like to be part

of such an important and much needed program for the

underserved to contact me. We are in need of specialty

providers and hope that some of you that are not already

participating in the program can find time to take even one

patient per year. If all of the dentists in the area would take

just one patient per year, we would be able to help many more

people that are desperately in need of dental services. Good

oral health is a good start to a healthy individual.

Thank you for your confidence, support, and participation

as we move forward helping those in need. You have all been

wonderful to work with and I thank each of you who have

participated in ADSP helping people in our community. I am

looking forward to our continued work together and your

support of the program.

To learn more about the Adult Dental Services Program or

to become an ADSP provider, please contact me at 616.776.2372

or by email at [email protected].

Adult Dental Services ProgramBy Rose Holmgren

M


T O O T H T I M E 2 0 1 0

he WMDDS annual Tooth Time educational expo to

be held at the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum on

Feb 4–5, 2010 is in need of volunteer dentists to serve

on the committee and at the event. This is a fantastic oppor-

tunity to touch the lives of over 1500 children, empha -

sizing dental education and the importance of oral health.

Please consider helping these young smiles continue to shine

during Childrens Dental Health Month at the museum. To

sign up contact:

Kurt Schabes DDS

[email protected]

616.676.2223.

Seeking VolunteersBy Kurt Schabes, DDS

T


2 0 0 9 N E W D E N T I S T G O L F O U T I N G

ugust 7, 2009 brought a sunny day to the New

Dentist Golf Outing. Lots of fun was had by the

seventy-two players who enjoyed camaraderie, golf,

and dinner. Funds raised at the outing will support the West

Michigan Dental Foundation tuition grant program which

provides grants to local dental, dental hygiene, and dental

assisting students. Over $2,500 was raised to support the

WMDF tuition grant program!

First place in the scramble was awarded to the team of

Doug Klein, Steve Dumas and Bill Smith. Congratulaitons!

Mac Lab sponsored the grand prize, a 50-inch flat screen

HDTV, which was won by Mark Day. Once again, Henry

Schein Dental sponsored the ever-popular $25,000 “Hole in

One” while Benco Dental sponsored the busy beverage cart.

Thanks to our sponsors and participants.

SponsorsPlease offer these sponsors your thanks when you come across

them in your daily business:

Mac Lab

Henry Schein Dental

Patterson Dental

Dixon Architecture

Studio 2 Digital Dental Design

Dentsply

MDA Insurance & Financial Group

MDA Insurance MDA Services

Paul Weston Financial

Davis Lab

AstraTech

Founders Bank & Trust

Midmark

SciCan

VolunteersA special thanks to our volunteers:

Betsy Haller – Bank of Holland

Shannda Ray, Molly Murphy, and Dawn Norman –

Norman Family Dentistry

Mark Your CalendarNext year's outing will be Friday, August 5, 2010. Everyone is

welcome! Schedule the day out of the office now.

A

Cedar Chase Hosts New Dentist Golf OutingBy Devin Norman, DDS

Andy Knowlton, Scott Strickland, Tom Williams, Andrew Van Haren, ToddRodwell (Benco)

Elizabeth Christopherson, Heather Zablocki Gietzen, Katie Van Haren,Kathryn Swan

Matt Gietzen’s group


Enrollment 2009-2010 Academic YearCurrently the associate degree program has 40 first-year

students and 57 second-year students.

Fall Community Health Fair The Ferris State University Dental Hygiene students partici-

pated in a Community Health Fair on October 3, 2009 at the

Fifth Third Ballpark in Comstock Park. The event was held in

conjunction with the “Battle at the Ballpark” where the FSU

Bulldog Football team took on the Huskies from Michigan

Tech. Students and faculty volunteered their time and pro -

vided dental health screenings as well as oral health and oral

cancer information to interested participants.

Online BS degree in Dental HygieneFerris State University Dental Hygiene program now offers an

online Dental Hygiene degree completion program in addi-

tion to the AAS degree program. This baccalaureate program

in dental hygiene is designed for dental hygienists with an

associate degree who want to earn a Bachelor of Science

degree in a student-centered learning environment. Students

engage in self-directed learning activities, advance their

knowledge in the areas of critical thinking, exhibit values for

lifelong learning, synthesize evidence-based information, and

develop leadership skills. Graduates from the program will be

prepared with enhanced technological modalities of practice,

research, communication, educational leadership, manage-

ment, and dental hygiene knowledge.

All required courses are offered through our distance

learning platform, so students can reside anywhere. Students

are not required to come to the Big Rapids campus for this

program. To be eligible for the RDH to BS DH degree comple-

tion program, applicants must be a registered/licensed dental

hygienist, graduate of an accredited associate/certificate den-

tal hygiene program with a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA.

Additional information on the BS degree can be found at:

http://www.ferris.edu/cahs/link_desc.cfm?subLinkID=36

Upcoming Continuing Education WorkshopsWe are pleased to offer the following courses for the 2009-10

academic year:

Clinical Local Anesthesia Refresher Course November 20, 2009

9 am – 1 pm

Digital Radiography for Dental Professionals February 19, 2010

9 am – 3 pm

Oral Pathology and Pharmacology Review April 9, 2010

8 am - 12 pm

Advanced Modalities in Dental Hygiene April 9, 2010

1 pm – 5 pm

Information regarding registration is available at:

http://cps.ferris.edu/activek/content.asp?sapp=fsu_cps&s=&cati

d=70&tid=1

16

S C H O O L N E W S

Ferris State University Dental Hygiene ProgramFall 2009 Program Update


eptember brings with it brilliant colored landscapes,

migration of various birds, cooling temperatures, and

summer’s transition into fall. Changes are amongst us.

The Dental Auxiliary Programs at Grand Rapids Community

College (GRCC) are changing and growing too!

The dental auxiliary faculty has been busy reviewing

curriculum, updating courses, and adding a few new ones.

Beginning in the fall of 2010, local anesthesia and nitrous

oxide sedation will be included in the dental hygiene curricu-

lum. Currently, dental hygiene graduates are able to enroll in

local anesthesia and nitrous

oxide sedation courses post

graduation. This change will

allow students to complete

training in local anesthesia and

nitrous oxide sedation as part

of the two-year curriculum.

Our dental assisting pro-

gram has retooled courses to

provide students additional

time to learn and apply dental

assisting skills. All expanded

functions skills are currently

taught within another dental

assisting course. A new course

has been developed to teach

expanded function skills. The

new expanded functions course

will be taught in the curricu-

lum beginning next fall. If in

the future, there is interest

within the dental assisting

community, the program could offer additional sections of the

course to those interested in attaining the RDA credential.

Our partnership with dental offices in the community is

critical to the success of the dental assisting program and

more importantly, the accomplishments of our students.

Fifty-five dental offices willingly donated their time and knowl-

edge mentoring GRCC dental assisting students this year.

During the month of August, Julie Bera, Dental Assisting

Supervisor, began delivering plaques of appreciation to dental

offices that provided externship opportunities for dental

assisting students during the

spring and summer semesters.

Julie is still in the process of

plaque delivery, and if she

hasn’t made it to your office,

look for her soon.

In this photograph, Julie

Bera is seen presenting the

plaque of appreciation to Dr.

Jim Lockwood. He plans to

proudly display the plaque in

the reception area for patients

and all that enter to see his

partnership with Grand Rapids

Community Colleges Dental

Assisting Program.

If your office is interested in

mentoring a dental assisting

student next spring, call Julie

Bera at 616.234.4542 for addi-

tional details.

17

S C H O O L N E W S

GRCC – Fall 2009 Dental Auxiliary ProgramsBy Eve Sidney, Director of Dental Auxiliary Programs, GRCC

Julie Bera with Dr. Jim Lockwood

S


MARK YOUR CALENDARWest Michigan Dental Foundation

Annual Golf Outing

Friday June 4, 2010 Returning to

beautiful Egypt Valley Country Club

Watch for more information about this event!

Mission Statement: An organization dedicated to the improvement of oral healththrough the financial support of education and service programs to address theneeds identified by the dental profession and the communities it serves in Kent,Ottawa, Ionia, Mecosta and Montcalm counties.

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

2009 Directory Corrections and Additions

BONCHER, ELISEMONTCALM HEALTH CENTER306 MAPLEWOOD DRIVEGREENVILLE, MI 48838225-9650 FAX 225-8525

FRIESWYK, JOHN M203 W 30TH STHOLLAND, MI 49423392-2853 FAX 392-2568

KUIPERS, ADAM190 MARCELL DRIVEROCKFORD MI 866-0869 FAX 866-6181

LUBBERS, MATTHEW T5813 BALSAM DRIVEHUDSONVILLE, MI 49426669-2040

MARTIN, DOUGLAS112 N. MONROEROCKFORD MI 49341866-4445 FAX 866-4409

SINGSTOCK, SCOTT2450 - 44TH STREET SE, STE 203KENTWOOD, MI 49512455-6601 FAX 455-6617

SWIERENGA, DONALD450 BECADO CTHOLLAND, MI 49423335-9654

WINN, DENNIS, II4095 PARK EAST COURT SEGRAND RAPIDS, MI 49546957-3977 FAX 956-8997

ADD TO SPECIALISTS LIST (ORAL SURGEON):

VAN HOOSE, BRADLEY G9021 N RODGERS CT, STE ACALEDONIA, MI 49316891-1700 FAX 891-9306

Changes indicated in bold


une, July and August – 23 hygienists, 14 dentists, and two

dental assistants provided free preventive and restorative

services to 148 clients (93 adults and 55 children, ages

1-17) for a value of $69,243. Of these 148 clients, 62 were

residents of Mel Trotter Ministries and 86 were from the

community-at-large. Additionally, eight dental specialists in

orthodontics, endodontics, oral surgery, and pediatrics pro-

vided free dental services in their dental offices. Wow! What a

blessing this year has been for the Community Dental Health

Outreach (CDHO) program sponsored by the Grand Rapids

Dental Hygienists’ Society and the West Michigan Dental

Foundation, in partnership with the Mel Trotter Ministries

dental clinic.

If you know these people, please thank them personally

for us:

Hygienists: Marcia Brower, Elaine Szarowicz, JoAnne

Hodder, Kathy Izenbaard, Linda Matthews, Sandra Krause,

Linda Dumont, Cathy Archer, Jan Brouwers, Kendra Wright,

Cheryl Bentley, Linda Carlson-Raley, Pennie Lewis, Linda

Slaktoski, Julie Burns, Laura Vandeberg, Maria Ellis, Val Davis,

Dawn Kamyszsek, Traci Beals, Peggy Sloma, Monika Miles,

Eve Sidney.

Dental Assistants: Marilyn Brandt, Lisa Miller

Dentists: Ben Amato, Lee McFall, Lisa Sostecke, Joffre

Martin, Kurt Schabes, Robert Payne, Paul Sugiyama, Douglas

Martin, Tyler Wolf, Karen O’Rourke, Peter Garchow, Steve

Snyder, Terry Hurt, Robert Haack.

Dental Specialists: Gary Armbrecht, David Armbrecht,

Jeffrey Brooks, Charles Caldwell, Gary Cook, Scott Hodges,

Ken Mulder, Suzanne Port.

Community Dental Health Outreach – People caring for people.

Thank You Volunteers: You’re the Best!By JoAnne Hodder, RDH, BS, CDHO Coordinator

C O M M U N I T Y D E N T A L H E A L T H O U T R E A C H

J

The West Michigan District Dental Society was saddened by the passing of our colleague:

Dr. Patrick O’Brien, September 11, 2009

Those wishing to make a memorial donation to the West Michigan Dental Foundation

in memory of Dr. O’Brien should contact Elaine Fleming at the

WMDDS office at 616.234.5605, or checks may be sent made payable to:

West Michigan Dental Foundation

161 Ottawa Avenue NW, Suite 511-F

Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503

I N M E M O R I A M


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!

Davis Dental Laboratory .....................inside front cover

Founders Bank & Trust .................................................24

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

Hungerford, Aldrin, Nichols & Carter, PC ....................8

MDA IFG .................................................................11, 13

Professional Solutions ...................................................14

ProNational....................................................................19

A D V E R T I S E R I N D E Xelvin E. Trotter was born in 1870 in Orangeville,

Illinois. His father tended bar and was an alco-

holic. Mel liked spending time in his father's

saloon and often visited the gambling den down the street.

The family moved to Freeport, Illinois where Melvin learned

“barbering.” By age nineteen, he was drinking heavily, gam-

bling and lost his job. He moved to Pearl City, Iowa, married

a wonderful Christian woman, Lottie Fisher. They had a baby.

He continued to drink and be away from home for days at a

time. When his two-year-old son died, he blamed himself. He

tried to run away from his guilt, ended up in Chicago, Illinois,

in January 1897, penniless. Still craving alcohol, he sold his

shoes to buy a drink. When the money ran out, they kicked

him out of the bar. At twenty-seven years of age, Mel Trotter

was in utter despair. He headed back toward Lake Michigan to

“end it all.” But Mel Trotter had two angels in his life – his

mother and his wife, who never gave up on him but continued

“Pacific Garden Mission.” Someone pushed this ragged look-

ing bum into the mission where they prayed, “Oh God, save

that poor, poor boy.” God saved him, breaking the alcohol

cravings that bound him. He never touched another drop of

liquor after that. He found a job barbering, had Lottie join

him in Chicago, and he became known as “the man who raved

about Jesus.”

In December 1899, a committee of women and some local

businessmen met in Grand Rapids to establish a city rescue

mission. They decided to invite Harry Monroe and some of

his converts from the Pacific Garden Mission in Chicago to

come to Grand Rapids to arouse public interest. Mel Trotter

accompanied this group to Grand Rapids and ultimately the

committee asked him to be the superintendent for their new

mission in 1900. (from “Man with a Mission” by Leona Hertel)

Thus began the first Mel Trotter Ministries Mission in the

United States of America. For 109 years, Mel Trotter

Ministries has reached out to the needy to help them to

become free of their personal burdens of alcoholism, drug

abuse, hunger, and homelessness, regardless of race, jobs, bible

study, and chapel by establishing a dental clinic onsite. Mel

Trotter Ministries has provided a forum to the Grand Rapids

dental community to alleviate the dental pain, restore the

smiles and educate this underprivileged clientele.

Did You Know?By JoAnne Hodder, RDH, BS, CDHO Coordinator

C O M M U N I T Y D E N T A L H E A L T H O U T R E A C H

M

WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | SUMMER ISSUE 200922

Space for Lease – Holland (greatnorth side neighborhood location).Previous tenant was a family practicedentist. High visibility sign available.Building interior is ready for equip-ment installation. Three ops and smalllab. Owner is willing to adapt buildingto needs. Call 616.245.9098 or800.669.0717.

SE Grand Rapids – Opportunity for ayounger dentist to begin transition totheir own practice. Recently remod-eled office in an excellent location.Gradually meet the patients and earnextra money as existing dentist takesadditional time off over the next threeto five years. If interested, email [email protected].

Kentwood, Muskegon, Fowlerville –We have three practices for sale. Theseopportunities are excellent starters and satellite offices. Kentwood andFowlerville have buildings also forpurchase. Starting gross of $470,000 to$600,000. Financing and working cap-ital available. Contact Dr. Jim David,Henry Schein PPT Sales at 586.530.0800or [email protected].

Office Space for Lease – Great loca-tion! 2426 Burton St. SE, 915 sq. ft., 3 operatories, lab, private office, reception, business office, basement.Contact Dr. Sam Bander at616.949.5980 or email at [email protected]

Storage Space for Lease – Safe, secure,24/7 access. Ideal for records, models,or just stuff you need to store. Locatedin the basement at 1151 East Paris Ave. Contact Dr. Sam Bander at616.949.5980 or [email protected] more information.

Dental Practice For Sale – Jenison,Michigan. Established and growingdental practice on major Jenison traffic route. Great income potential.Call for details 616.245.2767 or cell616.485.1348.

Half of Building (2,424 Square Feet)for Lease. Other half is a full-servicedental laboratory. Two year old build-ing, excellent for a dental practice.Great location in Kentwood on thecorner of Breton and 32nd Street. Ifinterested please call 447.0190.

Established Dentist with an ExistingOffice in Grand Rapids Wants to Buy– in or partner with another dentist.Open to all options. Please contactP.O. Box 141661, Grand Rapids, MI,49514-1661.

For Sale – 1998 Gendex GX-Pan,$4500. Also available: 1970 MossLateral Ceph. Make offer. Call 538.5920Mon.–Thurs.

Dental Practices Wanted to Buy –Two dentists separately looking for apractice to buy in the Grand Rapidsarea. Contact Greg McGlaun ofProveer at 616.425.5523 [email protected].

Dental Office Suite/Three Opera toriesfor Lease – Desirable SE Grand Rapidslocation. Some shared space (recep-tion room, lab, etc.) with two othergeneral dentists. Great opportunity forgeneral, specialty, or start-up. Excellentterms. Call 616.949.8990.

Grandville: 2000+ sq. ft. office spaceavailable for lease in exclusive profes-sional office building. Other tenantsinclude endodontist, family dentist,pediatric dentist, oral surgeon andorthodontist. Building partnershipbuy-in also possible as investment.Call 616.531.6377 or 616.531.1260.

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 mayplace 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, abbrevi-ations count as one word. Ads received after the first of the month prior to publication may appear in the following issue.

RDH/RDA – Dental professional withover 5 years experience seeking full-time, part-time or subbing opportuni-ties where I will be able to utilize myprofessional experience with patients.Please contact me at 616.262.8719.

Opening a Satellite Office. Lookingfor a good used panoramic x-ray andsome other used equipment (in goodshape). Please email: [email protected] call my office at 616.774.9402 or cellphone 616.307.2213 (leave message).

$190,000 Medical/Dental OfficeBuilding for Sale – Just south of 28thSt. off Eastern Ave. in Grand Rapids.2,345 sq. ft. For more information callTyler DeGraaf at NAI West Michigan616.242.1118.

For Sale – 2 Dental EZ chairs (one seldom used), Pelton Crane autoclave,Bio Sonic ultrasonic cleaner, Vacstar 2 vacuum pump 1 HP. No reasonableoffer refused. Call 616.456.7620.

Dental Vacuum Pump – 2 Hp MatrixModel Max-2000. Excellent condition.Recently appraised at $1200. Will take $800 or best offer. Contact ChaseKlinesteker at 949-8665 or [email protected].

Dental Office for Lease – Sparta, MI.2,000 sq ft., includes two x-raymachines, vacuum extraction, cabi-netry, laboratory. $1,350 plus utilities.Traffic flow/14,000 daily. 616.874.4192.

Spielmaker Accounting, Inc. –Specializing in medical practiceaccounting. Providing all aspects ofaccounting, payroll, and tax services.Licensed. Over 20 years of practiceexperience. References available.616.885.0432.


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

Grand Rapids, Suburb – Associateneeded for busy, general, restorativepractice, with transition to partner as soon as possible. Two doctor, 4-hygienist, 10-operatory, highly prof-itable, Mercer-coached practice, basedon quality, integrity, and communityinvolvement. Our practice is located inSparta, a rapidly growing communitywith a new high school, ten miles fromGrand Rapids and 30 miles from theLake Michigan shoreline. Our newfacility opened in April 2008, has 5500sq ft with an equally large lower level,is state of the art, and was needed tomeet the demands of our growingpatient base (377 new patients withcomprehensive exams in the last 12months). Needed is someone who seesthe value of a practice that is close to a metropolis as well as recreationalsports, and understands that therewards, both financial and personal,are far greater in a setting where onecan establish close relationships withtheir staff, patients, and residents ofthe town, rather than practicing in ahighly competitive, anonymous, urbansetting. You will have the option to livein vibrant Grand Rapids … Michigan’ssecond-largest city with the lowestunemployment of Michigan’s fivelargest cities and with an easy 10-15minute commute, live in the countrywith acreage, or live in a small townwith all that small-town living has tooffer. Instead of signing an employ-ment agreement with just a verbalpromise to ‘buy into the practice …someday,’ consider joining a practicewhere there is a written agreement upfront regarding your purchase and thevaluation of the practice, and wherethe doctors are anxious to mentortheir future partner and get personallyinvolved in making them successful.Visit our website www.spartadentstry.comand learn more about our long-termstable staff, the doctors, and our facility. Phone 616.887.7389 or email through the website, or [email protected].

RDH – 19 years hygiene experience,professional demeanor with excellentchairside manner with patients.Seeking part-time or substitute opportunities. Flexible, proven indi-vidual/team performer, strong refer-ences. Call Kathy at 616.682.1967.

Associate Position Wanted – Generaldentist looking for a position in a private practice as an associate in theGrand Rapids and surrounding areas.Open to all options (buy-in, partner-ship). Please call 616.307.2472 oremail [email protected].

Orthodontist Needed in NorthernKent County/Sparta – Two unequippedoperatories ready in new, 2-dentist, 10-operatory, general dentistry buildingwith room to expand to multi-chairpractice. Ideal for satellite or start-uppractice. Great referral base with sixgeneral dentists in Sparta and manymore in just a 5-6 mile radius. Seefacility at www.spartadentistry.com.Email [email protected] or call 616.887.7389. We are open to allscenerios of space sharing and partnerships.

RDH – 19 years Hygiene experience,professional demeanor with excellentchair side manner seeking part-timeor substitute opportunities, flexible,proven individual/team player, strongreferences. Kathy 616.682.1967.

Gorgeous Brand New 9120SF Class AGrand Rapids, Michigan area –General practice with average revenuesof $600,000. Great family communityconvenient to Grand Rapids. Fullypaperless office with complete digital,computerized system in four fullyequipped operatories. Contact PhilStark, Peak Transitions 888.477.7325or visit www.peakdental.com.PracticeWanted – Experienced general dentistswish to grow existing practice throughbuy-out or merger. Greater GrandRapids. All options considered.Contact [email protected].

SE Grand Rapids/Cascade – Officesuite available on 28th Street. Up to3,000 sq. ft., remodel to suit, adjoiningnew office of established general dentist, perfect for a specialist. Leaseor purchase option. Contact RandyChambers, DDS at 616.974.9947, or Eric Trierweiler with PrimeDevelopment at 616.957.4733.

Grand Rapids, Michigan area –General practice with average revenuesof $600,000. Great family communityconvenient to Grand Rapids. Fullypaperless office with complete digital,computerized system in four fullyequipped operatories. Contact PhilStart, Peak Transitions, (888) 477-7325or visit www.peakdental.com.

Dental Office for Lease – Rockford,MI. 1,000 sq ft, includes some dentalequipment and furnishings. $675/mo.,plus utilities. Traffic flow/10,000 daily.616.874.5300,

Office Condo for Sale – Income pro-ducing! 3769SF new medical tenant on5-year lease, 5351SF available to occupy.High traffic corner. Norton Shores.Call 616.776.0100.


rs. Lois Havermans, R.D.H., C.H.E.S., Oral

Health Team Supervisor, Ottawa County Health

Department Miles of

Smiles, has been selected to receive the

2009 Steel Water Award. The criteria

for this award is to honor an individual

or group who has made a significant

contribution to dentistry or the com-

munity in the five-county WMDDS

area. Lois Havermans exemplifies the

true spirit of this award. We are very

pleased to honor her with this award.

The 2008 Steel Water award was presented to the dental

programs at Grand Rapids Community College.

The award will be presented at

11:45 am at the WMDDS continuing

education seminar with Dr. John

Molinari on Friday, January 8, 2010 at

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture

Park. If you are not attending the

seminar but would like to be present

for the award presentation, please

contact Elaine Fleming at the

WMDDS office at 616.234.5605 or by

email at [email protected].

West Michigan District Dental SocietySteel Water Award

H U M A N R E S O U R C E S N E W S

M

WEST MICHIGAN DENTAL SOCIETY

511-F Waters Building

Grand Rapids, MI 49503

PRSRT STDUS POSTAGE

PAIDGRAND RAPIDS, MI

PERMIT # 657

2009-2010 Calendar of EventsNovember 2009November 19, 2009 – New Dentist Forum Meeting at Pietro’s at 6:30 pm

November 19-21, 2009 – Detroit Dental Review, Detroit Marriott Renaissance Center

December 2009December 2, 2009 – WMDDS Board Meeting at Kent Country Club

December 17, 2009 – WMDDS Holiday Dinner & Awards Night – Cascade Country Club

January 2010January 8, 2010 – WMDDS Continuing Education Seminar – Dr. John Molinari and Steel Water Award presentation to

Lois Havermans, RDH, CHES

January 8, 2010 – WMDDS New Dentist Forum Social Event at 8:00 pm

January 13, 2010 – WMDDS Board Meeting at 6:15 pm

January 27, 2010 – Kent County Dental Society Meeting – Dr. John Leitner, speaker at 5:30 pm

February 2010February 4-5, 2010 – WMDDS Tooth Time, Grand Rapids Children’s Museum

February 25-27, 2010 – Chicago Mid-Winter Meeting, McCormick Place West, Chicago, IL

February 24, 2010 – WMDDS Board Meeting at 6:15 pm

March 2010March 5, 2010 – Dental Appreciation Night at the Griffins (Hockey Game)

March 11, 2010 – WMDDS New Dentist Forum Meeting at Pietro’s at 6:30 pm

March 12, 2010 – WMDDS Continuing Education Seminar – Dr. Jeff Morley

March 24, 2009 – WMDDS Board Meeting at 6:15 pm

March 22, 2010 – Western Michigan Steering Committee Caucus in Kalamazoo for delegation

March 31, 2010 – Kent County Dental Society Meeting – Mr. Richard Klein, speaker at 5:30 pm

April 2010 April 8, 2010 – WMDDS New Dentist Forum Meeting at Pietro’s at 6:30 pm

April 12, 2010 – WMDDS/Muskegon District Caucus for delegation at 6:15 pm

April 14-17, 2010 – MDA Meeting at Rock Financial Showplace in Novi, Michigan

document

Documents

dental health outreach

adult dental services

trustee report

editors thoughts

bulletinfall issue

contentspresidents message

new dentist golf outing

norm palm