Thanks for making TAGD the great organization it is today!

SPRING 2011, VOLUME 37, ISSUE 2

WWW.TAGD.ORGO f f I c I A L P U b L I c AT I O N O f T h E T E x A S A c A D E M y O f G E N E R A L D E N T I S T R y

TEXASGPTAGD

With a little help from our friends...

Ye a r s

JOURNAL OF THE TEXAS ACADEMY OF GENERAL DENTISTRY2

TAGD wants to help you on the road to Fellowship and MastershipIf you received your Fellowship before 2003 some of your CE hours might be lost from your transcript. Contact the TAGD office and we will help you recover those hours; you may be closer to Mastership than you think!

2011 MasterTrack Schedule:June 23 - 26, 2011

Omni Southpark Hotel • Austin, TX

Indications for Periodontal SurgeryPresented by Dr. Eric Rindler & Dr. Clint Falk

High Tech and 3D in DentistryPresented by Dr. Paul Feuerstein

November 3 - 6, 2011Omni Southpark Hotel • Austin, TX

Oral Surgery

Pediatrics

Speakers to be announced

Texas AGD MasterTrack • How Close Are You?

Texas AGD has worked to make the MasterTrack seminars a true benefit for TAGD members. Each session is $895 for 48 hours of participation CE - That’s only $18 for each hour!

For more information visit www.tagd.org or call the TAGD office at 512.244.0577

A Lasting Partnership to Beneet Your Practice and Your Patients

For nearly 40 years, United Concordia has been a responsible, exible partner. Today, we insure more than 8 million members and serve over 28,000 commercial and government accounts - including the TRICARE Dental Program and Active Duty Dental Program. We invite you to join our network and receive access to new patients, competitive reimbursements, convenient tools and information, discount programs for your practice, exceptional service, and more. Plus, we’ll support you in promoting good oral health and its contribution to improved general health to your United Concordia patients.

To learn more or join our network, call (866) 529-4827 or visit our Web site at www.UnitedConcordia.com

FAGD/MAGD CreditProvider #2193281/1/11-12/31/15

3Spring 2011

PresidentCraig Armstrong, DDS, MAGDHouston

President-ElectJoey Cazares, DDS, FAGDMcAllen

Immediate Past-PresidentDan McCauley, DDS, FAGDMount Pleasant

Secretary/TreasurerMark Peppard, DDS, MAGDAustin

EditorJeff Roy, DDS, FAGDIrving

Director (2011)Jamie Bone, DDS, MAGDKerrville

Director (2011)Paige Sohn, DDS, MAGDFrisco

Director (2012)Carlos Garcia, DMDWeslaco

Director (2012)Andrew Lazaris, DDS, FAGDPlano

Director (2013)Kevin Gureckis, DMD, MAGD, ABGDSan Antonio

Director (2013)Marko Alanis, DDSEdinburg

AGD Regional DirectorDavid Tillman, DDS, MAGDFort Worth

AGD National TrusteeDouglas Bogan, DDS, FAGDHouston

Executive DirectorConnie Sonnier, CAERound Rock

2010 - 2011 OFFICERS

TAGD Staff

Jennifer Fontana • Administrative Manager

Sandy Frizzell • Member Services Director

Amy Knitt • Communications Director

Lauren Oakley • Communications Assistant

Cecile Shopen • JTCF Development Director

Disclaimer: The TAGD does not necessarily endorse opinions or statements contained in articles or editorials published in the TexasGP. The publication of advertisements in the TexasGP does not indicate endorsement for products and services.

Texas GP is published quarterly by the Texas Academy of General Dentistry, 409 West Main Street, Round Rock, TX 78664. Address changes should be sent to the TAGD. TexasGP is provided as a member service to members of the TAGD. Nonmember subscription rates are $25.00 individual and $40.00 institutional. Canadian orders add $5.00; outside the U.S. or Canada, add $10.00. Single copy rates are $3.00 to individuals and $4.50 to institutions (orders outside the U.S. add $1.00 postage). All orders must be prepaid in U.S. dollars.

Printed in U.S.A. Copyright 2011, Texas Academy of General Dentistry, Round Rock, TX.

No portion of TexasGP may be reproduced in any form without prior written permission from the TAGD. The opinions expressed by TexasGP are not necessarily endorsed by the TAGD. The publication of an advertisement in TexasGP does not indicate endorsement for products and services. TAGD/AGD approval for continuing education courses or course sponsors will be clearly stated.

TAGD 512-244-0577 877-464-8243 (Toll-free) 512-244-0476 (Fax) www.tagd.org

AGD 888-243-3368 www.agd.org

ADA 800-621-8099 www.ada.org

TDA 800-832-1145 www.tda.org

TSBDE 512-463-6400 www.tsbde.state.tx.us

Important Contacts

Information change request:Send your new address, phone, fax and e-mail to Amy@TAGD.org

NEXT ISSUE:

TEXAS DENTIST OF THE YEAR NOMINEES

J O U R N A L O F T H E T E X A S A C A D E M Y O F G E N E R A L D E N T I S T R Y

Dental Fillins .....................................................................................4

President's Message ...........................................................................5

Pearls of Wisdom ................................................................................6

Drill Bits .............................................................................................7

AGD Government Relations Conference Wrap-up .............................10

LSDC Preview ...................................................................................13

AGD Foundation ...............................................................................15

S P R I N G 2 0 1 1

Technology - An Old Guy's View

9

11TAGD Advocacy Update

T A B L E O F C O N T E N T S

JTCF at the Capitol

14

JOURNAL OF THE TEXAS ACADEMY OF GENERAL DENTISTRY4

Scatter shooting while wondering what-ever happened to...

...Bill Powell. He recently moved to South Carolina to be closer to family, after sell-ing his practice in Gainesville, TX. I can mention a long list of powerhouse names like Cindy Flanagan, T. Bob Davis, David Tillman, Gene Allen, Z Helmer, Ralph Cooley, Ronnie Theiss, Dan McCauley, Roberto Diaz, Michael Adame and Rusty Schlattman... heavy hitters who have made sure that we've stayed the course of positive growth and change. I wish I could high-light all 50 in this column, but that would be irresponsible in light of my budgeted guidelines for this publication. They, just like current president Craig Armstrong, were effective, servant leaders who were ea-ger to not only lead but follow. Of course they served here for a year or three, but they are also the types of givers that serve everywhere... their communities, in tripar-tite arenas of the ADA, AGD national, the mission fields, the boardrooms of Texas pri-vate and independent schools, and within their families. They are definitely residents of the "20" slot in life's 80/20 application to volunteers.

On this 50th Anniversary of our organi-zation, I am blessed to call myself a dedi-cated, loyal member. A shining moment in the 50 year history was written when Huntsville's very own Dr. John Chandler led our national AGD as President. No surprise, he still leads and works diligently for this great profession and the general dentist!

With a sustained leadership stable that is continually stocked full of solid leaders, the "next in line" like Dr. Joey Cazares - always ready to enter the arena, the TAGD has become an amazing vehicle as the voice of the general dentist. I know this vehicle inside and out, and think every GP in Texas denies something special by not be-

ing a part of AGD on all levels. I've served with eight or nine presidents now, and Dr. Armstrong is leading in amazing ways, like those before him.

The AGD is a sophisticated organization and we need "plugged in" members like never before on the national, state and lo-cal levels. The work is rewarding; ask us how you can help. We are always looking for the right people to lead!

Sophistication is a good thing. We are working very hard to become more custom-er-driven for the dentist in the trenches, in the military, retired, and teaching in our schools. We spend dedicated time study-ing how we can best use our resources to meet the needs of you (and me), the mem-ber. Committees and focus groups should be a big part of that, so stay ready for the call to action! Great ideas are not fired in to action carelessly. We ask ourselves how they fit into the mission and the strategic plan. Dr. Armstrong and this board are do-ing just that. Every decision we make goes through this simple formula: "What mem-ber problem does this solve? What un-met need does this deliver? What data supports the need?" If it doesn't fit...

For example, "New Coke" was a colos-sal failure and we all know the story. Obviously, not all change is good. When we do change, it must happen in a disci-plined way, driven by data and a strong TAGD culture. We will follow the data and culture. For example, we fear frag-mentation between organizations over issues like mid-level providers. We strive to assure that all Texas residents have access to licensed doctors that are equal-ly trained and educated, being commit-ted to fairness in quality of care. We are committed to this ideal and will advocate accordingly. It's just fair. Any change to the contrary would not be progress for Texas patients.

CLARIFICATION: This New Den-tist Conference is for every TAGD member, regard-less of age. I gradu-ated 15 years ago and wasn't even sure myself if I still qualified to hang out with these bright, younger minds. So, if you understand nothing else that I write, please understand that YOU ARE INVITED, and wanted! The New Dentists are the focus and honor-ees, but we will all work together to honor and mentor them. There will be excellent sounding boards and an esteemed panel to bounce questions off for younger den-tists, and guess what, any such exchange of information will educate all within hear-ing range. The highly esteemed Dr. Bill Robbins is the perfect man at the perfect time for this event. It's Austin, education, party boats (insert the Andy Sanderg video visual here), and young dentists having a lot of fun! There will definitely even be a few of us older Docs pretending to be young again (think T. Bob Davis and the white shoes). All jokes aside, this is very exciting when you think about how the Lone Star Dental Conference has grown and where this vehicle can go. We have big, hairy, au-dacious goals for this event and a long-term commitment to properly investing into the professional success of the new dentist.

Shout out: The Dallas AGD is doing an amazing job. They recently held their an-nual officer installation at III Forks in Dal-las, a free event for Dallas AGD members. It's almost too good to be true, always very entertaining (hired a comedian this year who gave David Wilhite fits), and I never miss! Congratulations to Dr. Shane Ricci who assumes the helm of a group I hold very dear to my heart, and once led myself. Nostalgia. ...Continued on page 7

1952 • Eight dentists, led by Dr. Thaddeus Weclew, created the

Academy of General Dentistry.

1961 • Dr. Jack T. Clark and Dr. Charles Pugh

formed the Texas AGD

1961 • Houston AGD received their charter becoming the first

component of the TAGD1960s1950s1962 • Panhandle AGD was formed originally under the name Palo Duro Study Club

DENTAL FILLINS • LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Jeff Roy, DDS, FAGD

5Spring 2011

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

Craig Armstrong, DDS, MAGD

1965 • Dr. Jack T. Clark served as President of the Academy of

General Dentistry

“Do not follow where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.” This quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson could have been written specifi-cally for the TAGD.

As President of the TAGD, I have wit-nessed firsthand an organization going places where there are no paths and we are leaving trails. Blessed with a combination of one of the hardest working staffs and members that place the good of the orga-nization ahead of self-interest, the TAGD is one of the finest groups that I have been privileged to work with.

The TAGD is one of the leading AGD state organizations year in and year out. An example that sets us apart from other constituents is the creation of our TAGD Advocacy Fund. With generous contribu-tions from our members we were able to raise over $50,000 to assist with our legisla-tive advocacy efforts.

Being president during a legislative year has been an enlightening experience for me. What has impressed me the most has been the effectiveness of our lobbyist Mr. David Mintz. He has represented us with integrity and honor. The voice of the general dentist in the state of Texas is being heard loud and clear in the capital; I can assure you.

During the legislative session, one of the is-sues we are currently working on for you includes supporting legislation that would limit the capping of non-covered dental services by insurance companies. Together with the TDA, legislation has been intro-duced that would make this practice ille-gal. Another topic generating considerable interest this session is the proposed cuts to Medicaid. I have appointed a task force to

study the current changes being proposed to Medicaid and to keep the membership informed. These are but a few of the legisla-tive items that we are monitoring for you.

As I travel across the state attending various TAGD functions, I find myself standing in amazement of the level of enthusiasm our members have for our organization. Whether it is attending an event in Tyler to honor one of our long time members, Dr. Terry Cook, or in San Antonio accepting a check for our Advocacy Fund from Dr. Jennifer Bone, the people in TAGD are ab-solutely amazing. Everyone in a leadership position worries about the future of their organization. However, I can tell you that I'm confident that the TAGD is well posi-tioned with energetic, creative individuals ready to rise to leadership positions and take the TAGD to the next level.

This year we will celebrate the TAGD’s 50th anniversary at the Lone Star Dental Con-ference on September 15-17. I would like to personally invite everyone to attend. This is a milestone for a young organization like ours and I encourage you to put the date on your calendar. We are trying to make this a party to remember! If you haven’t been to a Lone Star Conference in several years, this is the one to attend. It will be held at the state of the art AT&T Conference Center which has a fabulous hotel attached. Please plan to make a weekend out of it and enjoy the stellar continuing education program featuring Dr. Jeff Brucia along with the ca-maraderie and Texas hospitality that we are known for. Go online today to sign up and reserve your room.

One of the perks that one gets with involve-ment in an organization like the TAGD is

the opportunity to meet special people along the way. Dur-ing my involvement in TAGD, I have made lifelong friend-ships with people that I consider some of the finest that one could ever hope to associate with. One of those people is our current editor of the TexasGP, Dr. Jeff Roy. Dr. Roy is the type of person that doesn’t seek the spotlight but always provides a unique insight that is well thought out and relevant. Dr. Roy is stepping down as Editor after he fin-ishes this year, and I wanted to take this opportunity to publicly acknowledge how big a role he has played in shaping not only the GP but also the TAGD. He has served on the board in various positions over the last decade and has tirelessly volunteered when asked. While serving the TAGD, he has missed some special moments with his wife and children and has decided to spend more time with his family. I know that this has been a tough decision for Jeff but we all know that you are making the right one. I would like to personally thank you for your service and dedication to the TAGD; you will be missed tremendously. Enjoy your time with your family, you have earned it.

In closing, I would challenge each of you to consider making a donation to the TAGD Advocacy Fund. We cannot continue to represent the voice of the general dentist without it; any contribution is greatly ap-preciated. As Ralph Waldo Emerson said, "we need to go where there is no path and leave a trail.”

1962 • Dallas AGD received charter for their

component

1966 • First official TAGD CE meeting: “Full Denture Prosthesis” presented by Thomas H. Shipmon, DDS, FAGD at the Driskill Hotel in Austin, $10 per person.

1965 • TAGD's first sponsored course at TDA's Texas Meeting

1964 • The very first issue of the TexasGP

was published

Protecting the Profession as the Voice of the general Dentist Just one of the many benefits TAGD offers from the support of our members. Don't forget to renew your 2011 membership dues!

Renewing is easy; just visit www.TAGD.org to renew online or contact the TAGD office at 512.244.0577.

JOURNAL OF THE TEXAS ACADEMY OF GENERAL DENTISTRY6

1970s1973 • Dr. Jack T. Clark was the first Texan to receive his

Mastership in the AGD

After serving for two years on the State Board and the enforcement committee, I would like to share my insight into the complaint review process. There are five dentists of the Board who serve on the enforcement committee. In a typical month, we each may review thirty-plus complaints (case files) that are delivered weekly by courier to our front doorstep. In 2010, there were 1,171 complaints. The top six complaint categories were: standard of care (431), unprofessional conduct (341), failure to abide by the Rules (149), advertising (122), sanitation (37), and allowing auxiliaries to practice dentistry without a license (PDWOL) (33).

It is important to note that the reason the patient complains is often very different from the actual allegation. The reason may be rudeness, but the al-legation is failure to meet the standard of care or professional conduct. In fact, the top five reasons patients decided to complain are:

Rudeness of the dentist and/or staff1. Unresolved fee disputes 2. Patient has no clear expectation of 3.

treatment (informed consent) Unreturned calls left with staff 4. No attempt to resolve a dispute by 5. the dentist

The top five violations are: Record-keeping1. Failure to provide patient records to 2. the BoardSanitation issues3. Unprofessional conduct (fraud, 4. impairment, writing Rx's for non-dental purposes)Advertising violations 5.

It is also important to note that the Board can address other areas of infractions that are discovered when reviewing a complaint; record-keeping is the most notable infraction when reviewing other complaints.

All disciplinary orders, known as board orders, are available to consumers by download from the SBDE web site (www.tsbde.texas.gov) at no charge. Inves-tigative files are confidential by law and not considered open records. Agency staff, under the direction of Executive Director, Sherri Meek, has been working tirelessly to upgrade all hardware and software to a state-of-the-art licensing system that will improve efficiency within the agency and allow staff to better serve the board mission of public protection. The agency currently manages a licensee population that exceeds 60,000 dental professionals.

After reviewing many complaints and examining associated patient records, my best advice will come as no surprise:* Keep good records. Record-keep-

ing, whether paper or paperless, needs to truly document what oc-curs at each visit. A thorough re-

view of sec-tion 108.8 of the Rules is a must for all dental office p e r s on n e l .

* Whether a general den-tist or special-ist, all dentists are held to the same standards of care. And whether you practice solo, in a group, or in a cor-porate clinic your responsibility to-ward your patient and your account-ability for each patient's records are the same.

* Diagnostic records should be at the same level of quality as any service you provide. You can't di-agnose and develop an honest treat-ment plan without excellent records (x-rays, periodontal charts, photos, study models, etc.).

* Finally, the number of complaints would be cut in half if dentists and team members would just “do the right thing.” When something goes wrong, inform the patient; tell them what you will do to make it right, and document everything! Be kind to all and demand kindness from your staff. Take the time to re-examine the "Principles of Ethics" and the "Code of Professional Conduct" of the ADA which we committed to as members of organized dentistry. No risk management course will help near as much as committing ourselves to being care-givers who really care.

Respectfully,William R. "Bill" Birdwell, DDS, FAGD

1975 • Bertha Harris became Executive Director of TAGD

1973 • TAGD offices were located across the

hall from TDA

1973 • Corrin Thornton hired as Executive Director for TAGD

Bill Birdwell, DDS, MAGD

PEARLS OF WISDOM

My Perspective

7Spring 2011

1976 • Dr. Claude Pawelek served as

President of the AGD

Drill Bits

In June of 2007, I was fortunate enough to attend the ADA's New Dentist Con-

ference in Portland, Oregon. The confer-ence featured new and young dentists from across the country gathered together for continuing education, networking and so-cializing. I have since been to three more ADA New Dentist Conferences and will continue attending until I am no longer deemed to be a new dentist.

The collegiality and camaraderie at meet-ings like this is great. After the Portland trip, I envisioned how great a similar meet-ing would be for Texas new dentists. The thought of a yearly conference in Austin geared towards new and young dentists with a great speaker and great social events seemed like a pipe dream. What organi-zation would host and facilitate such an event? The project seemed unlikely to ever get off the ground. That was until the Texas Academy of General Dentistry decided to launch a New Dentist Committee.

As the Board of Directors assembled the

committee, I was honored to be asked to participate. The committee met for the first time in April of 2009. The idea for the New Dentist Conference came up, but we knew that it would take some time before we could we could launch such an event. With the introduction of the New Dentist of the Year award in 2009, we have been able to incorporate new dentists into the Lone Star Dental Conference festivities.

In 2011, the TAGD will finally devote an entire weekend to new dentists with the first annual TAGD New Dentist Confer-ence. I could not be happier with the events planned for the weekend of June 24-25th. First and foremost, we could not have cho-sen a better speaker; Dr. Bill Robbins will be the main event as he will lecture both days on global diagnosis. As a San Antonio graduate, Dr. Robbins was an instrumental figure in my education. Graduates of Bay-lor, Houston, or schools out of state have not been so lucky. This conference will give those graduates an extremely affordable op-portunity to learn from a true master.

In addition to premier continuing educa-tion, the first annual New Dentist Confer-ence will feature excellent opportunities for new and young dentists to network and so-

cialize. On the Friday evening of the confer-ence, we will charter a party boat to cruise Lake Austin that will include music, drinks and food! This should offer a superb oppor-tunity for everyone in attendance to let loose and get to know each other.

This conference will be held concurrently with a MasterTrack event at the Omni Southpark Hotel. This will give attendees a chance to meet and network with Master-Track candidates who are a little more sea-soned in the dental profession. Addition-ally, the legendary meals and snacks of the MasterTrack will be served and the confer-ence will feature a lunch and idea exchange with prominent panel of Texas dentists and an ice cream social!

All of these festivities will be available at an incredibly low price. The fee for TAGD new dentists will be $175! More informa-tion can be obtained on the TAGD web site and Facebook page. We hope to see ev-ery Texas new dentist in attendance!

1978 • TAGD offices moved to 4911 Harmon St. in

Austin, TX

1976 • Dr. Ed Cohen served as TAGD's first

Regional Director

1976 • TAGD hit the 1,000 member mark with the addition

of Dr. James Dotson Tarver

1978 • The TexasGP received the Best Constituent

Publication Award

It was great to see TDA’s Dr. Mike Stuart and his lovely wife in attendance.

Dr. Michael Stuart will soon run for Pres-ident-Elect of TDA. I can confidently en-dorse the character of the individual, hav-ing witnessed a solid leader who commands the respect of any dental organizational room he's found in with sleeves rolled up. We can all trust Mike and he is a servant leader. No-brainer. TAGD doesn't endorse candidates, let me make that clear, but I am wielding my editorial pen boldly and without regret. The endorsement is just too easy and I tip my hat to one of the legiti-mate good guys in this profession.

Another Shout-out: Dr. David Tillman suffered a minor setback and illness in March of 2011. I say "minor" because that is the way David attacks life. What's "ma-jor" for most is "minor" for David. It's a state of mind. Having done everything imaginable for this organization, hence you the member, even serving a year as president, he is chairman of the newly formed Advocacy Council that works relentlessly on behalf of us all. We don't even deserve him. Please, go out of your way and thank this guy anytime you see him. Appreciate him. He is sacrificing in ways for the general dentist that you can't imagine... trips to Austin, articles,

TSBDE meetings, speaking with legis-lators, and working tirelessly right now through this legislative session. Thank you David Tillman! You are a beacon for us all, and when I grow up someday... never mind, I could never fill those shoes.

DO NOT MISS LONE STAR THIS YEAR and the TAGD 50th Anniversary celebration. Past TAGD President Dr. Z Helmer is putting together a dandy, and everything Z touches succeeds! Clear your calendar; this will be "the biggest show yet!" I'll see you on the weekend of Sep-tember 15-17. Be sure and catch it all, starting Thursday night!

Josh Austin, DDS

JOURNAL OF THE TEXAS ACADEMY OF GENERAL DENTISTRY8

1980s

Your Conference Includes:A presentation from renowned speaker, Dr. William RobbinsGlobal Smile Design: This course will provide a systematic approach to diagnosis and treatment planning and discuss new treatment tools and modalities. Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:

Describe 5 Global Diagnoses• Describe the “5 CORE Questions” with their corresponding treatment options• Complete a Global Diagnosis form which will lead to a comprehensive diagnosis•

Food for Thought LuncheonAll attendees will receive a free seat at our panel discussion and luncheon. Take the opportunity to discuss your burning questions with our specially selected panel of dentists. You can submit your questions ahead of time by e-mailing Amy@tagd.org.

I’m on a Boat!... And You Can Be Too!We’ve scheduled a special social event for all conference attendees to hang out with their old classmates again! The TAGD New Dentist Com-mittee invites you to join us for a boat tour around beautiful Lake Aus-tin. Food and drinks included. The social is free for attendees.

Space is limited • Sign up today!To register visit www.TAGD.org

Or call the TAGD office at 512.244.0577 to register over the phone.

Texas AGD Presents: 2011 New Dentist Conference!

Featuring Dr. Bill Robbins • Global Smile Design A New Vision of Dental Diagnosis and Treatment Planning

Friday & S aturday, June 24 & 25 • Omni Southpark Hotel, Austin, T X

Provider #2193281/1/11-12/31/15

When: Friday, June 24 Saturday, June 25

Where: Omni Southpark Hotel 4140 Governor’s Row Austin, TX 78744

Time: Friday • 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Saturday • 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Fees: AGD New Dentist*..............$175 AGD Dentist.........................$225 Non-AGD Dentist................$255 Staff.....................................$175 Social...............Free for Attendees Social - Guests....................$45 *A new dentist is classified as anyone who graduated in 2004 or later

Save Money by Registering Early! R e g i s t e r b y M a y 1 6 a n d S A V E $ 3 0 . S p e c i a l p r i c e n o t r e f l e c t e d i n f e e s s h o w n a b o v e .

HOTEL INFORMATION: The Omni South-park Hotel has provided special rates during TAGD’s New Dentist Conference. Please call 1-800-THE-OMNI (800-843-6664). Block name: TAGD New Dentist. This special rate expires June 1. All bookings for attendees may also be made online. Please visit www.tagd.org.

1984 • Dr. Sam Rogers served as President of

the AGD

1983 • TAGD offices were moved to 1106 Clayton

Lane in Austin, TX

1980 • Linda Doll became Executive Director

of Houston AGD

9Spring 2011

I was recently at a party with a friend of many years. He was a dental supply rep-

resentative when we first met and has con-tinued to be very successful in his career for more than 30 years. We hadn’t been together for almost a decade, so we caught up on our families and upcoming mar-riages of our daughters. Our conversation inevitably moved to our common bond of dentistry. I talked of my practice and he spoke of the evolution of the services that he provides for his clients. And then the questions began. He asked, “Do you have a CAD-CAM machine?” No, and I then gave him some reasons, both techni-cal and philosophical. Clearly, the tech-nology has arrived, and no doubt, it is the future. However, I have not yet made the decision that the technology fits into my small, single doctor, low volume practice. I also voiced my concerns about the com-mitment to excellence that is required to bond adhesively retained restorations in the molar regions.

Not totally satisfied with my response, he next asked if I owned a laser. I answered yes, but that I used it on a lim-ited basis in my practice. I mentioned that the laser is a wonderful adjunct in many areas of soft tissue therapy, but that I am concerned about the marketing of la-sers for some applications such as closed flap crown lengthening. He just smiled, “Well, how about a digital impressioning system?” My answer was again, no, but I must admit, I do have a significant degree of enthusiasm for this new technology; I just haven’t jumped yet. A little more en-couraged with that answer, he then asked about digital radiography. I was relieved to be able to answer yes with enthusiasm on this one. He sensed that he wasn’t going to enlighten me on the virtues of technology, so he wisely chose to cease the questioning

on an upbeat.

As I reflected the next few days on our time together, I realized that there had been a disconnect in our conversation. My friend was both interested and excited about the current wave of technology and his questions reflected that enthusiasm. In retrospect, my answers to his questions were primarily philosophical rather than technical. We were viewing our common interests through very different lenses. His view of the technological advances was wholly positive while my view was clouded with philosophical concerns. This disconnect between the old and the new has played out the same way over many generations. However, it is different this time, because, for the first time in my life, I reflect the old.

This realization forced me to look deeper into my dinosaur world view. I have come to realize that it isn’t the technology that concerns me, it is the hype that accompa-nies the innovations and dentist’s ability to be discriminating when making tech-nology decisions. It is not the technology, but rather, the hands and minds that drive the technology that is of concern. For me, it is ultimately about excellence. I have been most fortunate to have mentors in my life who have modeled excellence for me. Never has the discussion been about faster, quicker, cheaper. It has always been about the best interest of the patient and how to optimize the longevity of the re-sult.

In recent years, the extreme makeover movement has had a significant impact on dentistry. On the one hand it has raised the consciousness of the public to the po-tential benefits of esthetic dentistry. How-ever, it has also given the false perception that the expedient way is the best way. The

use and in some cases, the misuse, of new technol-ogy has been a driving force in the quest for im-mediate dental gratification.

So how does a dentist approach the issue of how and when to incorpo-rate new technology into the practice. Clearly, the issue of technology and ex-cellence shouldn’t be an either/or conun-drum. Rather, it should be about which of the new technologies, when used cor-rectly, can make excellent dentistry more affordable for the patient and less difficult for the dentist. When the technology de-cision is made based on excellence rather than hype, both the dentist and the pa-tient benefit. So where does the thought-ful dentist go to get help with these deci-sions? The primary source of information is the refereed dental literature. Journals, like General Dentistry, provide unbiased information which should be the starting point in our discovery process.

A second venue is study clubs. Study club opportunities abound. In addition to many local study clubs, there are several study club networks which provide wonderful opportunities for professional growth on a continuing basis.

The Seattle Study Club network was founded in 1977 by Dr. Michael Cohen. The emphasis in these clubs is interdisci-plinary treatment planning. In a much different vein, Dr. Richard V. Tucker, founded a network of study clubs more than 35 years ago which emphasizes cast gold and direct gold restorations.

Continued on next page...

1987 •The Rio Grande Valley AGD was

established

J. William Robbins, DDS, MA, ABGD

Technology - An Old Guy's View

JOURNAL OF THE TEXAS ACADEMY OF GENERAL DENTISTRY10

1990s1991 • TAGD held the first official Lone Star

Dental Conference

1995 • Ginny Newton came on as Executive

Director of TAGD

Although the emphasis is very different in these two study club networks, the goal is the same – excellence through education and practice.

Finally, continuing education opportuni-ties to learn about materials, techniques and new technologies are legion.

However, the dentist must be discrimi-nating when choosing to which star to tie their wagon. Many continuing edu-cation courses are sponsored by compa-nies. There is certainly nothing inherently

wrong with this relationship; however, full disclosure is essential and the attendees must be discriminating when evaluating the information gleaned from sponsored courses. Additionally, annual meetings of dental organizations, such as the Texas Academy of General Dentistry, provide excellent opportunities for unbiased con-tinuing education.

This is clearly the best time in history to be practicing dentistry. To a significant degree, our good fortune is due to the

wonderful technology that is currently available. However, we must remember that technology is ephemeral, while a commitment to excellence is a constant. When contemplating the acquisition of new technologies for our practices, the de-cision must be based on excellence rather than expediency. As Aristotle reminded us more than 2300 years ago, “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.”Reprinted with permission Operative Dentistry 35(5);489-90:2010

1992 • TAGD won the AGD CE award for the

first time

Around 8 a.m. on a typical Monday at my office, I’m generally getting ready to start a procedure or perform an exam. Like all of us, I’m just trying to do the best for my patient. Lately, I’ve come to realize that providing the “best” for my patient isn’t only about delivering excellent dentistry. It goes beyond a comprehensive exam or a high-quality restoration. When I consider how my patients’ oral health, and even my ability to provide den-tal care, may be impacted by current proposed legislation, providing the “best” also means getting involved with advocacy. That’s what AGD’s Govern-ment Relations Conference, A Great Dentist Goes to Washington, is all about.

This year, the conference took place on April 11 and 12 - definitely not a typi-cal Monday or Tuesday for over 60 AGD dentists who came to Washington, D.C., from across the nation to attend. Di-rected by Dr. Myron Bromberg, Chair of AGD’s Council on Legislative and Gov-ernmental Affairs, the program provides an opportunity for dentists to familiarize themselves with current issues, and actu-ally gives them experience in discussing these issues when they visit the offices

of their representatives and senators on Capitol Hill. This year’s guest speakers included freshman Representative (and dentist) Paul Gosar from Arizona and po-litical commentator and journalist Mort Kondracke. James Paluskiewicz, Deputy Chief of Staff and Health Policy Advisor to Texas Representative Michael Burgess, was also on hand to share his insights on the current political climate.Going to D.C. to meet with our repre-sentatives is an important part of the ad-vocacy process, but the conference’s take-home message is that effecting change and having a voice in the legislative pro-cess truly begins with relationships. It’s our on-going patient relationships that

drive us to work on their behalf, and it’s the relationships we develop with our politicians that enable general dentistry’s message to be heard.

Next year, A Great Dentist Goes to Wash-ington will take place on April 16 and 17. If you’d like to attend, I’d encourage you to save the date and contact TAGD’s Executive Director, Connie Sonnier, for more details. But if you can’t make it to Washington, you can still be a great dentist when it comes to advocacy. It’s as easy as responding to AGD’s CAPWIZ alerts urging you to contact your repre-sentatives about pending legislation (all it takes is a few clicks) or following TAGD’s electronic legislative newsletter, The Gate-keeper. Learn about your representatives through their Facebook pages, schedule appointments to visit their offices, attend or even host a campaign fundraiser.

In our patients’ lives, we are the experts they trust for sound dental information and advice. If we take steps toward build-ing relationships with our representatives, we can be their resource for trusted in-sight promoting the very best for our pa-tients and our profession.

2011 AGD Government Relations Conference Wrap-upby Jennifer Bone, DDS, MAGD

From left to right: TAGD Executive Director, Connie Sonnier, CAE; Drs. Jennifer Bone, Michael Goulding, David Ku, and Bryan Moore

11Spring 2011

1996 • TAGD offices relocated off of MoPac

Expressway in Austin, TX

TAGD Advocacy Newsby David MintzThe 2011 Texas legislative regular ses-sion, which ends on May 30, has been a busy one for TAGD.* Building on the ef-forts that were started nearly three years ago, the Academy’s advocacy program continues to grow and ensure that the voice of the general dentist is represented both at the Legislature and before regu-latory bodies like the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners.

Before the session began, TAGD’s Advocacy Council facilitated meet-ings with members in Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, the Rio Grande Valley and San Antonio to receive feedback on major issues and help the Advocacy Council and Board set priori-ties for the session.

Ultimately, TAGD focused on three key issues: preventing insurance companies from capping fees on non-covered ser-vices, working to stem the practice of illegal dentistry and fighting efforts to expand the scope of work done by mid-level providers. The Council continues to meet throughout the session to take positions on bills affecting general den-tistry that are consistent with positions adopted by the Board.

TAGD is monitoring more than 30 bills this session that either directly or indirectly affect dentistry. Here are de-

scriptions of some of the major bills that TAGD is monitoring. If TAGD’s Advocacy Council has taken a position on a bill it will be reflected in the bill description:

Fee Capping SB 554 by Sen. John Carona (R- Dallas) and HB 1776 by Rep. Jose Lozano (D-Harlingen) states that a contract between a dentist and an insur-ance company or health maintenance organization may not limit the fee the dentist charges for non-covered services. This includes services for which an en-rollee’s health care plan does not provide a benefit or reimbursement. The legis-lation only affects insurance programs regulated by the state and do not ap-ply to ERISA plans. The legislation is TAGD’s top priority this session and we are working with the Texas Dental Association in support of its passage.

Status: HB 1776 was approved by the House Insurance Committee. SB 554 has passed the Senate.

Child Support SB 120 by Sen. Carlos Uresti (D-San Antonio) and HB 1777 by Rep. Jose Lozano (D-Harlingen) would allow courts to include dental coverage as a part of child support order. TAGD supports these bills.

Status: SB 120 was approved by the Senate and HB 1777 has a hearing scheduled in the House Judiciary and

Civil Jurisprudence Committee.

Expanded Duties of Dental HygienistsHB 1612 by Rep. Myra Crownover (R-Denton) and SB 858 by Sen. Leticia Van de Putte (D-San Antonio) is similar to legislation filed in previ-ous sessions. It would allow dentists to delegate the administration of local an-esthesia to dental hygienists who have a bachelor’s degree and have taken a TSBDE-approved course. Administra-tion of anesthesia must be performed under the direct supervision of a dentist. The bill goes on to state that hygienists may not establish an independent prac-tice to provide these services. TAGD is opposed to this legislation.

Status: HB 1612 was referred to the House Public Health Committee and SB 858 was referred to the Senate Fi-nance Committee.

Anesthesia Portability HB 3143 by Rep. John Zerwas (R-Richmond) provides that a dentist must complete at least 24 months of training in the use and administration of deep sedation anesthesia to qualify for a portability permit for deep sedation anesthesia services. TAGD strongly opposes this bill.

Status: HB 3143 was introduced and re-ferred to the House Public Health Com-mittee.

...continued on next page

JOURNAL OF THE TEXAS ACADEMY OF GENERAL DENTISTRY12

2000s2001 • The Jack T. Clark

Foundation was established

2003 • Connie Sonnier came on as Executive Director

2000 • The TAGD launched www.TAGD.org

2003 • Dr. John Chandler served as President

of the AGD

Consent for Cleaning Without an X-RayHB 796 by Rep. John Zerwas (R-Richmond) provides that in situations in which a dentist or dental hygienist makes a determination that x-rays are needed at the time a patient’s teeth are being cleaned that the dentist or dental hygienist can provide the patient with a TSBDE-approved consent form allow-ing them to proceed without taking the x-rays. TAGD opposes this bill.

Status: HB 796 was introduced and referred to the House Public Health Committee.

Hygienist Scope of PracticeHB 1569 by Rep. Garnet Coleman (D-Houston) and SB 857 by Sen. Leticia Van de Putte (D-San Antonio) would expand the areas where hygien-ists can work under general supervision to include public and private schools, as well as preschool. In addition, any pa-tient receiving care at a facility where the hygienist is allowed to practice under general supervision (including nursing homes and community health centers) would have to be examined by a dentist within a year from the time of treatment (as compared to within six months un-der current law). TAGD is opposed to these bills.

Status: HB 1569 was referred to the House Public Health Committee and SB 857 was referred to the Senate Health and Human Services Committee.

Dental Services to ChildrenHB 1248 by Rep. Mike Villarreal (D-San Antonio) would allow mobile dental facilities operated by governmen-tal entities to provide permanent molar sealants at schools with low income stu-

dents. The parent or guardian would not have to be present would need have to give written consent.

The mobile dental facility must meet re-quirements as set forth by the TSBDE. Providers must also give participants in-formation about the importance of regu-lar dental visits and contact information for local dental service providers under the medical assistance programs.

HB 1248 was heard in the House Pub-lic Health Committee and been left pending in committee. TAGD, along with TDA and the Texas Academy of Pediatric Dentistry testified in opposition to the bill. While we have met a number of times with Rep. Villarreal and his staff, as well as other stakeholders, there has not been any consensus on the bill. Among other concerns, it is TAGD’s position that any such services should not be performed without a comprehensive exam, should only take place in a parent or guardian’s presence and that the mobile dentistry van should be tied to the child’s dental home.

Consolidation of Health Licensing Agencies Governor Rick Perry (R-Austin) has proposed consolidating health profes-sional licensing boards into a single enti-ty. In addition to the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners, the consolidated agency would include oversight of phy-sicians, nurses, optometrists, psycholo-gists, chiropractors, pharmacists, physi-cal therapists, occupational therapists and podiatrists. The Health Professions Council would also be eliminated.

HB 3426 by Rep. Bill Zedler (R-

Arlington) and SB 1785 by Sen. Dan Patrick (R-Houston) would implement this concept. TAGD opposes these bills.

Status: SB 1785 was introduced and referred to the Senate Health and Hu-man Services Committee. HB 3426 was introduced and referred to the House Public Health Committee.

Teeth WhiteningHB 3220 by Rep. Ana Hernandez-Luna (D-Houston) would expand the definition of the practice of dentistry to provide teeth whitening services. TAGD supports this bill.

Status: HB 3220 was introduced and referred to the House Public Health Committee.

School-based Exams HB 3471 by Rep. Diane Parick (R-Arlington) would create an advisory committee at the Texas Department of State Health Services to study the feasibility of requiring dental examina-tions for students entering first grade. TAGD supports this bill

Status: HB 3471 was introduced and referred to the House Public Education committee.

Copies of all bills can be found at www.capitol.state.tx.us

*As of the press deadline, it is unknown whether the legislature may need to meet in special session to complete work on the budget, redistricting or other issues. Spe-cial sessions are at the call of the governor for up to 30 days and are limited to issues identified by the governor.

2002 • The UT Dental Branch held the state's first

FellowTrack Meeting

2004 • The UTHSCSA held its first FellowTrack

meeting

13Spring 2011

2005 • TAGD held its first MasterTrack session

in Austin

2009 • TAGD created the Advocacy Fund and meets its goal within the first 8 months

2009 • TAGD joined Facebook and Twitter

1 9 6 1 - 2 0 1 1Texas academy of General denTisTry

Celebrating 50 Years of Excellence

September 15 - 17, 2011 • Austin, TXA T & T E x e c u t i v e E d u c a t i o n C o n f e r e n c e C e n t e r

J o i n U s F o r o U r

BIGGEST P A R T YE V E R !!

Dr. Jeff Brucia Dr. Chris Brady

Friday lectures featuring:

Please visit our web site www.TAGD.org for additional information about the conference. We hope to see you in September!

Lone star DentaL ConFerenCe

L o n e S t a r E v e n t s Thursday • September 15 TAGD Leadership Reception

Friday • September 16 Friday lectures8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

2011 Texas Dentist of the Year Gala™Starts at 7:00 p.m.

Saturday • September 17Saturday Workshops8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

2005 • TAGD offices moved to

1111 N. 1H-35 in Round Rock

2008 • TAGD purchased the office building at 409 W. Main St. in Round Rock

2008 • TAGD hired David Mintz as our

Legislative Consultant

FAGD/MAGD CreditProvider #2193281/1/11-12/31/15

JOURNAL OF THE TEXAS ACADEMY OF GENERAL DENTISTRY14

2010s2010 • TAGD created theEmergency Preparedness

Committee

Jack T. Clark Foundation

2011 • DAGD held first FellowTrack meet-

ing in Baylor

Where Were You on St. Patrick’s Day?What better way to spend St. Patrick’s Day than... at the Texas Capitol, helping people understand the importance of their oral health and screening them for oral cancer?

Several board members and other support-ers of the Jack T. Clark Foundation drew just that conclusion on March 17. Founda-tion Chair, Dr. Ralph Cooley of Conroe was joined by Board member Dr. Moshtagh Farokhi and Program Committee mem-ber Dr. Michaell Huber, both UTHSCSA Dental School professors, as well as Dr. Gene Hassell of Pflugerville for this event.

Assisting was Mr. Grady Basler, Director for the Department of Public Health Sci-ences, Baylor College of Dentistry, also a Foundation Board Member and veteran of many such events. Anthony Kayruz, a high school student from St. Mary’s Hall in San Antonio, worked diligently as aide-de-chair and scribe for Dr. Farohki.

Acting as a well-oiled machine, TAGD staff and others quickly set up the portable chairs in the basement rotunda of the Capitol, where four halls converged for maximum exposure on that floor. After putting out flashlights, gauze, gloves, mirrors and other items needed for the simple but important oral cancer screening procedure, several staff members left to pass out information and recruit participants. Even those who were reluctant or who chose not to be screened had the opportunity to be educated.

In a two-hour period, 37 individuals were

screened and two were recommended to follow-up with their dentists for potential abnormalities. Participants who stopped by had a chance to be counseled by the den-tists about the risk factors for oral cancer, such as alcohol and tobacco use, radiation in the head/neck area, excessive sun expo-sure, family history and the presence of one particular form of HPV. Even poor diet can be a factor. However, 25 percent of those diagnosed may have no risk factors at all.

People who stopped by included Capitol staff and legislators, as well as individuals who had noticed advertisement of the event in the media and other visitors. They ranged from young to not-so-young, although nearly 60 percent were under the age of 50. A range of ethnicities were represented. While most were from Austin or were lo-cal in terms of cities on the I-35 Corridor, from Georgetown to Buda, there were par-ticipants from as far away as Houston and Flower Mound, Texas.

Everyone who agreed to a screening took away not only the experience and an un-derstanding about the need for continued screening, but also a travel toothpaste and toothbrush, courtesy of Walgreens.

In addition to our volunteer dentists, the Foundation is grateful to the TAGD staff who came together to help promote and support this event and who were instru-mental in helping set the oral cancer screen-ing stage for this important work.

Without the assistance of Mr. David Mintz, the TAGD lobbyist, we would not

have been able to secure this venue, which helps to underscore the dental profession’s presence—not only at the Capitol, but in the greater Texas community.

Nearly 35,000 people are diagnosed with oral cancer annually in the United States; approximately 8,000 die. The significance of screenings cannot be understated; with early detection, the 5-year survival rate is nearly 30 percent greater. Treatment may even be relatively minor. With a newly-broadened mission to support the oral health care of Texans affected by cancer through edu-cation, access to appropriate oral health care and collaborative research, the Foundation aims to make a difference in the lives of all cancer patients statewide. Assisting with early detection through screening is just one way we are doing this.

A historic overview of what has become the Jack T. Clark Foundation reflects an ever-increasing scope and commitment to public health interests. Initiated in response to specific and narrow needs—scholarship funding—over the years, the Foundation’s purpose and mission have developed and grown large. While retaining a focus on strengthening the profession, concern for the oral health needs of Texans cancer pa-tients continues to build.

We are grateful to Walgreens for its support of this event and to all who made it possi-ble. We look forward to expanding upon it in future years and invite any of our readers with a wish to volunteer and support our work to call or contact the Jack T. Clark Foundation via e-mail to: jtcf@tagd.org.

15Spring 2011

AGD Foundation FundraisersThe Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) Foundation, the philanthropic partner of the AGD, passionately supports the efforts of the general dentist toward improving the oral health of the public. As a not-for-profit organization, the AGD Foundation holds fundraisers to help make dental care avail-able to under-served populations. Please join us in our efforts to help those who are in need of dental care and oral health liter-acy, by participating in the following 2011 AGD Foundation Fundraisers:

Fun Run/Walk 5K FundraiserSaturday, July 30, 6:30 a.m.Individual Registration Fee: $35Enjoy scenic downtown San Diego with an invigorating run or walk through some of the city’s most picturesque settings. The route will take you along the bay and through winding park paths in Embarca-dero Park and nearby attractions, includ-ing charming Seaport Village. Spend time with family, brainstorm with a colleague,

or just get outdoors for a little exercise. T-shirts and goody bags will be provided for all registrants.

Registrants must be age 13 and older. AGD constituents, regions, councils and commit-tees are encouraged to enter and compete as teams (four members per team). The AGD Member Team Competition fee is $250. Register online when you register for the AGD Annual Meeting & Exhibits. The last day to register for this event is Fri-day, July 29, 4 p.m.; race day registration will not be available. Proceeds will support outreach programs for the under-served.

Silent Auction FundraiserThe AGD Foundation is in need of dona-tions for its Silent Auction Fundraiser, which will be held in San Diego during the AGD Annual Meeting & Exhibits, July 28 to 31, 2011. The AGD Foundation needs continuing education courses, new dental equipment, instruments and dental publi-cations, new jewelry, rare books, luxury gift baskets, and so forth. The AGD Founda-

tion is asking all AGD members affiliated with college and professional sports teams to donate signed jerseys from athletes, team coaches, managers, and owners, as well as sports equipment, game tickets, behind-the-scenes tours, autographed playing cards, and so forth.

If you’re a dentist, coach, consultant, or memorabilia collector, please help the AGD Foundation by donating items to the silent auction. Please send donations to the AGD Chicago office to arrive by May 2, 2011. Proceeds will support grants and outreach programs that provide access to dental care for the under-served.

The AGD Foundation is a 501 (c)(3) char-ity; gifts to the AGD Foundation are fully deductible for federal income tax purposes, subject to the limitations placed on chari-table gifts by the Internal Revenue Service.

To learn more about the AGD Foundation, please contact Marilyn Mays, manager, AGD Foundation, at 888.243.3368, ext.4329, or marilyn.mays@agd.org

AGD Foundation Upcoming Events

AGD 2011 San DieGO!Annual Meeting & Exhibits

Places to Go, People to SeeIt’s never too early to plan ahead for top-notch continuing education (CE) and exciting events. Mark your calendar now for the Academy of General Dentistry’s (AGD) 59th Annual Meeting & Exhibits in San Diego!

July 26 to 28, 2011: AGD House of Delegates

July 28 to 31, 2011: AGD Annual Meeting & Exhibits

For more information, visit www.agd.org/sandiego!

GO

Texas Academy of General Dentistry409 West Main StreetRound Rock, TX 78664

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1. Choose your interestsCheck any areas of interest that you would like to know more

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special rates on the right)

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3. Send in your application and dues

2011 Academy Dues - State & National $536 Student Dues $16

Or New Dentist Special Dues Rates - State & National 2007 Graduate $465 2008 Graduate $355 2009 Graduate $2442010/1st Year Graduate or Resident $141

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Mail or fax your completed form to: Texas Academy of General Dentistr y • 409 West Main Street • Round Rock, TX 78664 • Fax 512-244-0476

Brazos Valley AGD..............$25

Central Texas AGD.............$45

Dallas AGD...........................$45

East Texas AGD...................$25

El Paso AGD.........................$10

Fort Worth AGD.................$40

Heart of Texas AGD..........$15

Panhandle AGD..................$ 0

Rio Grande Valley AGD....$40

San Antonio AGD..............$50

Houston AGD.....................$50

2010 Graduate..................$25

2009 Graduate..................$35

2008 Graduate..................$45

Join us in Celebrating 50 Years of Advancing Excellence