tagd gp summer 2011

SUMMER 2011, VOLUME 37, ISSUE 3

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

Also in this issue: 2011 Texas DenTisT of The Year nomineesaGD annual meeTinG Wrap-up & TaGD’s leGislaTive summarY

Join Us for Our Biggest Party Ever!Shoulder to Shoulder

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 & 2012 MasterTrack Schedule:November 3 - 6, 2011

Omni Southpark Hotel • Austin, TX

Comprehensive Pediatric DentistryMarvin’s Garden of Tips

Presented by Dr. Marvin Berman

PediatricsSpeaker to be announced

June 7 - 10, 2012Omni Southpark Hotel • Austin, TX

Removable ProsthodonticsPresented by Dr. Joseph Massad

OrthodonticsPresented by Dr. David Jackson

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

3Summer 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

Laura Ceglio • Communications Assistant

Sandy Frizzell • Member Services Director

Amy Knitt • Communications Director

Lindsey Robbins • Administrative Assistant

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 [email protected]

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

AGD Annual Meeting ..........................................................................7

LSDC Schedule..................................................................................10

Member Spotlight ............................................................................11

Advocacy Checklist ...........................................................................13

S U M M E R 2 0 1 1

15New Dentist Conference Wrap Up

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

Jack T. Clark Foundation Update

14

2011 Dentist of the Year Nominees

8 & 9


Social Consciousness and Perspective

It's hot. Dry. Sticky. Oppressive. The forecast from week to week is above

105 degrees around Dallas most ev-ery day. The grass is dead and trees are dying. Farmers and ranchers are strug-gling, and livestock is being sold off at alarming rates to avoid figuring out ways to feed them. It tends to make us agitated and cranky, right? Amidst our inconvenience, we are also concerned as there is no relief in sight. Ironically, we are still some of the luckiest people in the world living in one of the best state economies. Even as the markets and 401k values plunge all around us, we somehow stay on course. Lucky? Unquestionably.

Perspective. A wave of famine is spread-ing across the upper Horn of Africa as they endure the worst drought in 60 years, superimposed on a political cri-sis and civil war in Somalia. Hundreds of thousands of children are expected to die in the coming months of malnutrition, disease, and starvation. Aren't we "lucky"? That luck really took no effort on our part. We were born in the right place and that "luck" comes with a responsibility, perhaps. The depth of pain, sorrow, and hopelessness in parts of the world is unimaginable, and even worse, real. Examine your ability to increase awareness, please, and donate what you can. International aid has been slow, and these people are dying at alarming rates. I hope by the time you are reading this the issue is getting the attention is needs.

All of this both burdens my heart and reminds me that I am blessed. I do feel lucky. What really matters in our lives? Are we chasing our tails, or racing neck in neck in a desperate rat race where the winners are in the end, rats? There is a gigantic gap between the scale of famine and the scale of the response. International aid is a good direction to invest your energy. Ralph Waldo

Emerson said, "When it is dark enough, you can see the stars." Make a difference; mercy is on the move. Whatever your plight, be engaged, collaborative and resonant. Just like with organized dentistry, there is strength in numbers.

OK. That was heavy. Too many late nights of “working after work” can warp a mind, or encourage it.

Lone Star 2011. The Big Show. TAGD's 50th year together will be celebrated on Thursday night. Take off work early, drive or fly, and don't miss this birth-day party. President Craig Armstrong is buying drinks, just ask him!? I plead with you to not only attend the C.E. portion of the meeting, but also the Dentist of the Year Gala on Friday night, especially if you've never attended. It is the best night of the year. This is TAGD's shining star and in my humble opinion, the finest event paying tribute to servant leaders in the state, without de-bate. My first ever event I sat at the table with President-elect Joey Cazares, and Past President Roberto Diaz, both from the valley. They weren't superstars yet, but they were on their way. Hey, and we were sitting at the back corner table, with open seats beside us. Try and sit by those guys now! That's the last year I'd get such a privilege. Point is, the room is full of wonderful, welcoming people from all over the state. Make new friends or men-tors. Mingle with our specialist friends and honorees, state officers, executive di-rectors and spouses. Meet your future as-sociate, partner, or referral source. Heck, meet your future spouse; who knows? I'm just saying...

Thank you Craig Armstrong for an amazing year! We especially want to thank your lovely wife for loaning you to TAGD for the past year. You were an amazing leader in a legislative year, in-fluential on all levels. Your leadership in launching our advocacy fund was critical. Your presence and sacrifice on all levels of

ADA and AGD is critical for the GP. Your wife will be happy to receive you back into the family at Lone Star, officially, but don't go too far. We still have a lit-tle more work for you to do. Joey Ca-zares, we are excited about handing you the gavel. You and I have been around for about the same time so I know your heart and respect your commitment and vision. I would be stealing our new edi-tor's thunder if I brag on you too much; that's his first task next issue. I wish you luck, but you won't need it. You are cut from the same cloth as Craig, Dan McCauley, Roberto Diaz, Michael Adame, and all of the great leaders be-fore you. I can't wait to see where you will lead us. We are here to support your vision along the way!

Vaya Con Dios"Oh how the years go by" - Amy Grant sings and the older I get the deeper I understand it. Life is screaming by and pardon another melodramatic song ref-erence, but "Don't Blink ...it goes faster than you think." My time as Editor for the Texas AGD has blazed by. I've served on the Texas AGD board in various capaci-ties for many years, and on focus groups before that while serving and presiding over the Dallas AGD. I loved this posi-tion and working with the very talented Amy Knitt on staff to create a quarterly publication that hopefully means some-thing, says something. Thank you Amy for your hard work and dedication!

Amy and I have tried so hard to com-municate the advocacy message while spreading and uniting The Voice of the General Dentist.

Continued on page 6...

DENTAL FILLINS • LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Jeff Roy, DDS, FAGD

5Summer 2011

Craig Armstrong, DDS, MAGD

As the saying goes, “All good things must come to an end,” and so does my

year of service as your TAGD President. Travelling across the state of Texas, it has been a wonderful year for me, personally. I have reconnected with many old friends and made many new ones along the way. Writing this message to you was bitter-sweet. I realized my term was coming to an end and it passed so quickly. Optimistically, I started looking ahead and remembered that the TAGD is in such great hands with our President-Elect, Dr. Joey Cazares, and I immediately felt better. With his strong leadership skills, the organization will continue to head in the right direction. Dr. Cazares has been such a good friend to me this year. I look forward to supporting him now as he steps in as president.

My year as TAGD President has been fast paced with the TAGD accomplishing many of the goals we set out to attain. I recently returned from the AGD Annual Session in San Diego and must report that it was a tremendous success for the TAGD.

I have never been more proud of our TAGD than in San Diego, where we were the recipients of several constitu-ent awards including the ACE award for Outstanding Publications, the Constitu-ent of the Year Award, and one that I am especially proud of, the Advocacy Award. The Advocacy Award came with a mon-etary gift that will be promptly applied to the TAGD Advocacy Fund. In addi-tion to our constituent awards, 32 Tex-ans received their Fellowship Awards, 13 received their Mastership Awards and 3 received their Lifelong Learning and Ser-vice Recognition Award. Congratulations to all of those individuals on their accom-plishments!

Another accomplishment deserving rec-

ognition is the efforts of our legislative team during the 82nd Legislative Session. Despite seeming to go on forever, the session did finally come to a close and the TAGD Advocacy efforts need to be applauded.

Helping with our legislative efforts, our TAGD Advocacy Fund raised over $55,000 which helped us become a force in the Legislative arena. Along with TDA, the TAGD supported legislation, specifically SB 554, which prohibits state regulated insurance companies from limiting the fees that a dentist can charge for services that are not covered by their policy. This bill passed and will become effective after September 1, 2011. This was a huge victory for organized dentistry.

Another piece of significant legislation that the TAGD Advocacy efforts were in-volved with was in the changes to the way Medicaid was administered. We submitted our concerns and working with the TDA we had our voices heard. We didn't get everything we wanted but thankfully the Legislature did not cut appropriations to Medicaid and CHIP. These are just a few examples of the victories that your Legis-lative team had this year and a huge debt of gratitude goes out to Mr. David Mintz, our lobbyist, for his tireless efforts during the session. I would also like to recognize Dr. David Tillman for his boundless energy while serving as chairman of the Advocacy Council. Without his commitment to the Advocacy Council, I am sure our efforts would not have been as successful. Thank you Dr. Tillman for all you do for us at the TAGD.

So much happened during the year and as I reflect upon some of the things that occurred, certain actions stand out more than others such as our statewide “Town

Hall Meetings.” I feel that the TAGD is stronger than it has ever been and the level of com-munication from leadership to the membership is getting better and bet-ter every year. This will become increas-ingly important as time goes on. We, as a profession, face attacks from non-profit foundations and the government which may alter the way in which we practice dentistry here in the state of Texas.

The Texas AGD wields so much respect, nationally, and that has not occurred by accident. Strong leadership is the standard in Texas and I applaud all the leaders of the TAGD that preceded me. That made my job that much easier this year and I like where the bar has been set, and hope-fully tried to further raise it. I have had so much fun this year and while it has been hectic at times, I wouldn’t have changed a thing. Our tremendous central office staff, lead by our wonderful executive director, Ms. Connie Sonnier, continues to serve in an exemplary manner.

I would be remiss if I didn’t thank my beautiful wife Lana for her support this year. Without her understanding and love this year, I would not have been able to have had such a successful year. Thank you for being there for me.

Lastly, I would like to thank my Board of Directors. Your support of me and the TAGD this year has been phenomenal. To a person, you all have risen to every challenge that we faced as an organization. I am honored to have served with you. Please know that you will always have my respect and love. Thank you for the privilege of serving as your President.

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT


There are many reasons to get involved in organized dentistry, but they all fall into one of two groups.

The first group encompasses the obligatory reasons; I believe all of us, as dentists, have an obligation to serve our great profession. Rusty Weir said it well in one of his famous songs, “If you’re going to eat cake, Joe, you’ve got to pay for it boy.” So true! We will all reap substantial material and spiritual rewards as dentists. It is a sense of duty from which we should not shrink.

It is in our own best interest to be involved to protect our profession. The laws of nature say that all things natu-rally gravitate toward chaos. If you don’t

believe that then don’t do anything to your home’s yard and landscaping for a year or two and see if it doesn’t look wild and chaotic. There are constant forces that if left unchecked would allow the practice of dentistry by non-dentists. The worst elements of our profession might thrive and grow without our profession’s vigilance. It is unimaginable what politi-cians, third party interests, bureaucrats and non-dentist entrepreneurs might do to the public and our profession if we were not there to counterbalance.

The second group reflects our personal rewards, things that are gratifying about serving. When one “signs up” he or she is embarking on a tremendous personal growth trip. It doesn’t take long to realize that many of us can be leaders. It takes more willingness to put out the effort than any special gifts or skills. Develop-ing our leadership gives us confidence. We must practice discipline, time man-agement, and responsibility in order to get everything done that keeps balance in our lives. This forced personal growth makes us better people.

Serving dentistry will be one of your great fulfillments in life. You will know that you are doing something necessary and the results you achieve are gratify-ing. Since I became involved with the AGD and TDA it has led to taking more CE. Indeed, we learn a lot about putting on CE programs and often get to know

the speakers much better. Sometimes, I learned more at meeting breaks while talking to fellow attendees, or conversing with lecturers while setting up the meet-ing.

I saved the best for last. The absolute best reason to serve is the friends you make. I believe I was able to serve with dentists representing the cream of the crop of our profession. Being involved in organized dentistry has led to lifelong friendships with some of the most outstanding people I have ever met. My admiration runs deep for them. I would name some but would probably unintentionally omit some peo-ple thus will avoid that risk. These friend-ships have created a great local, state and national network of dentists to refer and receive referrals from. Friendships with colleagues are very special!

If you aren’t involved, please call someone who is and tell them you are ready. They will be glad to hear from you. It is our duty to “pass it on” and leave it better than we found it. I strongly encourage young dentists to get involved right away. Don’t wait until you are older and more set in your patterns and activities. I’ve never heard anyone say that they regretted their involvement. I have heard many say they were blessed by it. You will receive 10 times more than you give and that is a good investment no matter who you are. Just do it! You will be glad you did.

I suppressed urges to change the name of the publication and even the editorial on arrival, but ultimately decided to stay the course despite eagerness to shake it up. I'll miss this gig. However, children grow up fast and for those of you who have served with me, those two snotty-nosed toddlers Alicia and I used to haul to meetings are now ages 9 and 11. I’ve decided to refo-cus on assuring that they are equipped to change the world for the better. The last decade went fast, and they’ll both be in college in less than a decade. Thanks for

allowing me to serve you in this capacity. Sincerely, it's been an honor and a privi-lege.

Say hello to the "new guy"Beginning with the next publication, Dr. Andrew Lazaris moves into the Editor position and he has exciting ideas and perspectives! I am pleased to see An-drew's continued rise within TAGD, as he hails from our Dallas AGD board and came up the ropes along side of me. He's an intelligent, deep thinker and tough to

rattle. He will make sure the message is com-municated well. Best of all, he be-lieves in service to organized den-tistry and keeping it both simple, and sensible. I can't wait to see what he has in store and am excited to see the publication’s new direction.

Andrew Lazaris, DDS, FAGD

PEARLS OF WISDOM

By Rodney Rayburn,

DDS, FAGD

7Summer 2011

2011 AGD Annual MeetingBy David Tillman, DDS, MAGDMore than 3,000 people soaked up the sun and attended the AGD 2011 Annual Ses-sion, held in beautiful, cool San Diego, California. At the meeting, Dr. Howard Gamble of Alabama was installed as AGD’s President. He is a past Alabama AGD and Alabama Dental Association President and has been a friend of Texas for many years. Also, 32 Texas dentists received their Fellowship and 13 Texas dentists received their Mastership to the AGD. Dr. Terry Cook, Dr. Iracema Gomez-Infante, and Dr. John Chandler were awarded their Lifelong Learning and Service Award. Less than a hand-full of Texas dentists have received this award. Congratulations to all of these dentists for their hard work!

In two years the Annual Session will move

to a four day weekend format including governance and scientific sessions occurring concurrently. Currently the scientific session is during the weekend but the governance, AGD’s House of Delegates, occurs before, not during, the scientific session. This will be very good because it will decrease the time delegates are away from their offices.

The AGD House supported the concept of expanded function dental assistants (EFDA’s), “under the supervision of a dentist, (to) provide only reversible pro-cedures in an effective, safe, and efficient way to increase capacity and access to care while reducing barriers to utilization of care.” This is in line with ADA’s policy and combats the mid-level provider work-force model.

Also, among many other resolutions,

the House voted to combine several councils: the marketing council, the tech-nology and web use council, the Publica-tions Review council, and the Public Re-lations council into a Communications Council. Hopefully this will improve the efficiency of communications between the AGD and its members.

All in all it was a wonderful meeting and it was great to see old friends and eat delicious food in San Diego. Next year’s AGD An-nual Meeting is June 21-24 in Philadelphia. What a great venue and time for the meet-ing. Philadelphia with all its historic signifi-cance, the Philadelphia Phillies, Lancaster and Amish Pennsylvania at its finger tips, and even New York City a train ride away, it will provide a great site for CE or a family vacation.


T. Bob Davis, DMDDallas

Dallas County Dental Society

Daniel Garza, DDSGoliad

Guadalupe Valley District Dental Society

Robert Hall, DDSBryan

Brazos Valley AGD &Brazos Valley DDS

Clint Hardee, DDSAmarillo

Panhandle Academy of General Dentistry

Eric Hollander, DDSAustin

Capital Area Dental Society

Ron Lee, DDSBedford

Fort Worth AGDFort Worth District Dental Society

Dan McCauley, DDSMount Pleasant

1st District Dental Society

Travis Miller, DDSOrange

Dental Society of Southeast Texas

Tom Smith, DDSLongview

East Texas Academy of General Dentistry

James Summitt, DDSSan Antonio

San Antonio Academy of General Dentistry

Don Taylor, DDSBuda

Central Texas Academy of General Dentistry

Xochitl Anderton, DDSLubbock

South Plains Dental Society

Craig Armstrong, DDS Houston

Houston AGD & Greater Houston Dental Society

Steve Bender, DDSPlano

Dallas Academy of General Dentistry

David Boyles, DDSAlvin

9th District Dental Society

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9Summer 2011

fridaY, septeMber 16, 2011 Get readY to shake it and stir it

Please join us for a swell time as we announce the 2011 Texas Dentist of the Year™. Nominees were chosen by their local dental society or AGD component and exhibit dedication to the profession, service to the community, commitment to continuing education, and have been involved with activities that demonstrate their character and excellence in the profession of dentistry.

Ensy Atarod, DDSCentral texas aCademy of General dentistry

Richard D. Collins, DDSGreater Houston dental soCiety

Elyse Cronin, DDSCapital area dental soCiety Brandon Fleshman, DDS9tH distriCt dental soCiety Max Kerr, DDSsan antonio distriCt dental soCiety Shane Ricci, DDS dallas aCademy of General dentistry Aly Sergie, DDSdallas County dental soCiety Stacey Smith, DDSsan antonio aCademy of General dentistry Joe Zacarias, DDSrio Grande Valley aCademy of General dentistry

TEXAS DENTIST OF THE YEAR GALA • STARRING

Warren Branch, DDSSan Antonio

San Antonio District Dental Society

Kirk Coury, DDSAmarillo

Panhandle District Dental Society

Mike Hatchett, DDSJacksonville

East Texas Dental Society

Samuel Henry, DDSSeguin

River District Dental Society

Fred Philips, DDSCorpus Christi

Nueces Valley Dental Society

John Shultz, DDSWaco

Central Texas Dental Society

ConGratulations to the 2011 neW dentist of the Year noMinees:

texas dentist of the Year Gala

the eGGMenaustin's premier Beatles triBute Band

for More inforMation about the Gala please Visit WWW.taGd.orG


2011 Lone Star DentaL ConferenCeCelebrating 50 Years of Advancing Excellence in General Dentistry

S e p t e m b e r 1 5 - 1 7 , 2 0 1 1 • A u S t i n , t XA 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 b i G G e S t p A r t Y e V e r ! !

Dr. Jeff Bruciapresenting:

Restorative Materials Update 2011

Dr. Chris Bradypresenting:

Killer Case Acceptance Quick and Easy

F r i d A Y l e c t u r e S F e A t u r i n G :

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

L o n e S t a r S c h e d u l e Thursday • September 15 Financial Planning Seminar • 1:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.TAGD Leadership Reception • 6:00 p.m.

Friday • September 16 Special keynote address by U.S. Ambassador Lewis LuckeFriday lectures • 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.Anniversary Luncheon • Noon-1:30 p.m.

2011 Texas Dentist of the Year Gala™ • 6:00 p.m.

Saturday • September 17Saturday Workshops • 8:00 a.m. - Noon

Through the eyes of technology:New Tools for Disease Assessment in Your Office

Direct Aesthetic Anterior Restorations:A Partnership of Art and Science

CBCT and Usage of 3D Software in General Dentistry

11Summer 2011

2011 Lone Star DentaL ConferenCe

F r i d A Y l e c t u r e S F e A t u r i n G :

M e m b e r S p o t l i g h tO t i s E . H e n i s e y, D D S , M A G D

E a r l y O nGraduating from dental school in 1961, Dr. Otis Henisey knew his educational journey was not close to being complete. He toyed with the idea of continuing his professional education through a resi-dency program in pediatric dentistry, but instead Dr. Henisey enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. He was able to acquire addi-tional instruction from his training in mass casualty disasters and working at the VA where he learned more about oral surgery and worked closely with a Colonel on base.

J o i n i n g A G DOnce his time in active duty was com-

plete, Dr. Henisey sought other ways to cultivate his dental skills and soon came upon the Texas Academy of General Den-tistry. Having been established in 1961, Dr. Henisey found the TAGD in its in-fant stages. He knew it was an organiza-tion whose values aligned with his own, especially through AGD’s emphasis of be-ing a lifelong student.

His peers, Dr. Jerry Argovitz and Dr. Sam Rogers, had been members of the Acad-emy and encouraged Dr. Henisey to join and work toward earning his Fellowship and Mastership. Dr. Henisey found work-ing toward these awards met his appetite for CE and ongoing training. Both awards also gave him a structured way to acquire additional instruction in multiple disci-plines. Eventually, Dr. Henisey became the second TAGD member to receive his

Mastership, just a few years apart from TAGD Founder, Dr. Jack T. Clark.

L e a d e r s h i p

& A c c o l a d e sEventually, Dr. Henisey served as president of the Houston AGD and he was appointed to the Advisory Review Board for Title 19. Dr. Henisey is now retired from practice but serves as a con-sultant. He continues his participation with TAGD through his emeritus mem-bership.

T h a n k y o u D r. H e n i s e y f o r y o u r c o n t i n u e d s u p p o r t o f t h e TA G D.

I n M e m o r i a mThe United States of America, San Diego, California, and San Antonio lost a self-less and courageous public servant in the line of duty. Marine Officer (Reserve) Captain and San Diego Police Of-

ficer Jeremy Henwood, age 36, was laid to rest on August 12, 2011. The son of Doctors Robbie and Bev-erly Henwood of San Antonio, he was remembered as a “true warrior” and was highly respected by friends, colleagues and supervisors.

Senselessly taken away too soon, his life ended during a routine traffic patrol in San Diego for no apparent reason on Sunday, August 7. No motive has been revealed in the investigation, and the as-sailant was killed by Jeremy’s fellow of-ficers after pulling the same weapon on them and refusing to surrender.

Jeremy had been on two deployments to

Iraq and had only recently returned from a deployment in Afghanistan, where he led a company of 160 marines. The procession was made up of hundreds of police and governmental agency cars, and attended by the California Governor, San Diego Mayor, California State Attorney and District Attorney General amongst a host of mourning dignitaries, fellow of-ficers, friends, and family.

One can search online for a wonder-ful story about Captain Henwood and a good deed he did minutes before the senseless act. He was seen on surveil-lance camera at a McDonald’s making a food purchase for a young, disadvantaged boy who was short on funds. Although the boy was only short a dime, Officer Henwood made the purchase for him, had an encouraging conversation with him, and impacted his life forever.

Officer Jeremy Henwood was an amaz-ing citizen, Marine, and police officer. He gave way more than he took, and it deeply saddens our heart to know he falls in the “some gave all” category. His par-ents decided to donate his organs, and two kidney patients have been recipients,

giving even in death. When we think of the word “hero,” Jeremy Henwood is overqualified.

His father, Dr. Robbie Henwood of San Antonio, is a past TAGD Board member and has worked hard in service with the San Antonio AGD. Robbie and Beverly, our hearts go out to you. Below is Dr. Henwood's mailing address if you would like to send your condolences to him and his wife.

Drs. Robbie & Beverley Henwood6315 Pickering DriveSan Antonio, TX 78238

The San Diego Police Officers Associa-tion has also established a trust fund for Officer Henwood's family. Donations can be mailed to:

Officer Jeremy Henwood Family Trust, c/o San Diego Police Officers Association, 8388 Vickers St., San Diego, CA 92111

Checks can be made payable to the San Diego Police Officers Association (SDPOA). Please write "Officer Jeremy Henwood" in the memo line. All dona-tions will go directly to the family.


2011 Legislative SummaryThe Voice of the General Dentist2011 marked TAGD’s most active session ever advocating for general dentistry. Throughout the recent legislative session, TAGD’s Advocacy Council monitored and took positions on more than 30 bills impacting general dentistry. In collaboration with other stakeholders, including the Texas Dental Association and the Texas Academy of Pediatric Dentists, TAGD is working to protect the future of organized dentistry and the care of our patients. Along with the efforts of our lobbyist, TAGD members also met with legislators and their staff and testified before committees. Special thanks to these members, including Drs. Craig Armstrong, Joey Cazares, Ralph Cooley, Mark Peppard, David Roberts and David Tillman.

How did we do? TAGD's top priority for the session - limiting the ability of insurance companies to mandate fees for non-coveted services - passed. Meanwhile, not a single bill that TAGD opposed was successful. In fact, TAGD was so successful, that it won the Constituent Advocacy Award at this year’s AGD Annual Meeting, along with several other awards including Constituent of the Year.

TAGD is the voice of general dentistry on policy issues that affect the quality of care for our patients and the dental profession’s future. Here’s a summary of recent accomplishments:

Limiting the ability of insurance companies and health plans from capping fees charged by dentists for non-contracted services.

Result: Under a new state law, state-regulated plans are prohibited from setting fees for procedures that are not covered and/or reimbursed by their policies. As TAGD’s top priority during the recent legislative session, we worked in support of efforts by the TDA to help pass this bill over the objection of insurance companies and others. This legislation applies to plans renewed or entered into after September 1, 2011. It does not cover ERISA plans, which are federally-regulated.

Opposed efforts to create a different standard of care for certain patients. Result: During the recent legislative session, several proposed bills would have expanded the

scope of work that could be done outside the dental home or by mid level providers. TAGD joined with others in organized dentistry to successfully oppose these efforts. We remain commit-ted to removing barriers to quality oral health care but will vigorously oppose any proposal that creates a two-tiered system standard of care for patients.

Supported ensuring that properly trained general dentists can administer various levels of sedation and general anesthesia.

Result: When the state board revised rules governing anesthesia and sedation permits this year, TAGD successfully advocated for maintaining portability and to adhere to the 2007 ADA guidelines. TAGD also opposed legislation, which did not pass, that would have set guidelines for criteria for certain levels of anesthesia permits in state law rather than leaving those decisions within the purview of the state board.

Opposed legislation to consolidate regulation of dentistry and other health professions under a single state agency.

Result: Legislation that would have consolidated the State Board of Dental Examiners and other regulatory bodies, such as the Texas Medical Board, into a single entity could have meant that dentists would have been regulated by those who do not have a full understanding of the standards of care for patients or knowledge of the dental profession. TAGD joined with others to successfully oppose this effort.

Your TAGD

is working

hard for

you on so

many lev-

els, none

more so

than dur-

ing the 82nd Legislative session.

Protecting the interests of the

general dentist in the state of Texas

was paramount. TAGD worked hand

in hand with the TDA to limit cuts to

appropriations to the Medicaid and

CHIP programs and we prevailed.

We also scored a victory in prevent-

ing insurance companies from limit-

ing fees that a dentist could charge

for services they do not cover. We

continue to advocate on your behalf

to keep the practice of dentistry in

the hands of the general dentist.

Craig Armstrong, DDS, MAGD

13Summer 2011

TAGD Advocacy Breakfast

Haven't donated yet? There's still time!

The TAGD Advocacy FundThe TAGD, the only organization that solely represents the interests of general dentists, established the TAGD Advocacy Fund to support the Academy’s government affairs efforts.

The fund may be used in support of TAGD’s legislative and regulatory initiatives, including retaining a lobbyist, developing grass roots com-munications and conducting advocacy training. The fund is not a political action committee and will not be used for campaign contributions.

The TAGD Advocacy Fund Levels of GivingFounder.................... $5,000 annuallyMaster...................... $1500 annuallyFellow....................... $500 annuallyMember.................... $250 annually

The Greater GoodWhether it is a discussion regarding the use of mid-level providers, chang-es in Medicaid reimbursement rates or regulations governing the use of anesthesia, it is essential that our perspective is heard.

Just one misguided law or regula-tion can have a major impact on your ability to provide services, the cost of running your practice, and even the quality of patient care.

Your financial investment is needed to help continue effective representa-tion of Texas general dentists.

Looking forward, TAGD has several goals to ensure that all Texans have access to quality oral health care in a dental home under the general dentist’s guidance.

1. Removing barriers to care A TAGD task force is working to develop recommendations for policymakers that remove barriers to care. We will also continue to advocate on issues that didn’t pass during the 2011 legislative session such as studying the feasibility of providing exams for all children entering school and including dental coverage as part of child support orders.

2. Illegal practice of dentistryTAGD remains concerned about patients who receive care by people masquerading as dental professionals who are unlicensed and unqualified. We will continue to look for ways to stop these dangerous and unscrupulous practices.

3. State Board of Dental ExaminersAs the body that protects consumers and regulates dental practices, the state board is a vital partner. TAGD will continue working to ensure that the perspective of general practitioners is presented as the Board considers policy issues. For example, the Board is currently considering revising rules on advertising and whether to include oral cancer screenings as part of the standard of care.

4. Working to make sure the new Medicaid reimbursement system is workable for both patients and dentists.As the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) is in the process of outsourcing the processing and payment of Medicaid reimbursements, TAGD is working closely with TDA and others to review the proposal to make sure the system that is finally put in place is feasible. This change could have a profound impact on the ways Medicaid patients receive care and how dentists are paid for their services. TAGD is closely monitoring this process and has provided the HHSC with questions and comments so the concerns of general practitioners who serve Medicaid patients are taken into account.

Public Health (1%).............................Prosthodontist (2%).........................Endodontist (2%)...........................Periodontist (3%)..........................

Pediatric Dentist (4%)..................

Oral Surgeon (4%)........................

Orthodontist (5%)...........................

General Dentists (79%)

Join us for a hot cup of coffee to kick off the Lone Star Dental Conference at the TAGD Advocacy Breakfast

All TAGD Advocacy Fund donors are invited to join us on Friday, September 16 at 7:00 a.m.

More details will be available soon!

Shoulder to Shoulder

TAGD Advocacy Fund


Jack T. Clark FoundationCurrent DirectionThanks to our Supporters, the Jack T. Clark Foundation has:

Conducted no-cost oral cancer screenings for the •general public - 3,500 in 2010

Produced/placed oral cancer and screening brochures •in dental offices and patients’ hands - 250,000 in 2010

Produced many hours of mission-related education for •dentists and hygienists

What we can do with our Supporters’ help:Continue programs above•

In partnership with MD Anderson, coordinate dissemi-•nation of a statewide survey of dental professionals examining existing attitudes, beliefs and behaviors as related to oral health care of cancer patients

Develop an online mission-related Virtual Clinic for •patient, dentist and doctor reference

Produce programs for dissemination of information on •differential diagnoses of oral cancers

Recruit a Cancer Cadre—dentists, hygienists and •assistants skilled in treatment of cancer patients, allowing them to focus on their personal lives and overcoming the disease.

Explore the possibility of a Network of Chairs—iden-•tifying under-utilized venues where volunteer dental professionals can serve

Taking it on the Road—identifying or purchasing and •outfitting vehicles for mobile treatment opportunities, with an emphasis on rural areas

Jack T. Clark, DDS, MAGD was a co-founder of the Texas Academy of General Dentistry, the first president and is often referred to as the "Father of TAGD." Dr. Clark gave a lifetime of service to his Fort Worth community and his profession, advancing the principle of lifelong learning to provide the public with the best possible care.

A historic overview of what has become the Jack T. Clark Foundation reflects an ever-increasing scope and com-mitment to public health interests. Initiated in response to specific and narrow needs, 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 continues to build.

Jack T. clark FoundaTion Donor FormconTacT inFormaTion:

Name: ________________________________________________________________________________

Address: ______________________________ City, State, Zip: _______________________________________

E-mail: __________________________________________ Phone: (________)__________-______________

donaTion levels: BeneFacTor..........................$1,000 supporTer...........................$500 Fan..................................$250 Friend...............................$100

paymenT: Check enclosed (Payable to the Jack T. Clark Foundation) Visa MasterCard Discover American Express

Card #: _____________-_____________-____________-_____________ Exp. date:______________________

Name on Card: ______________________________________ Signature: _______________________________

15Summer 2011

Thank you to all of our 2011 sponsors for your support

Thank you to everyone who attended TAGD's first ever New Dentist Conference Be sure to save the date for next year • June 8 & 9, 2012

Special thanks to our upper level sponsors

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

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

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

about or participate in:

Educational Programs Fellowship/Mastership Award

Advocacy Networking Leadership/Involvement

Jack T. Clark Foundation/Volunteering

Other:___________________________________________

2. tell us about you

Name______________________________________________

Address____________________________________________

City, State, Zip_______________________________________

Phone______-______-________ Fax______-______-_______

E-mail______________________________________

Date of Birth _______/_______/_________ M F

License #_______________ Year of Graduation*___________

Dental School___________________________ New Dentist?*

*If you graduated less than five years ago your dues are less (see

special rates on the right)

type of Practice - Check all that apply Solo Associateship Group

Federal Services (specify)____________________________

Specialist (specify)__________________________________

3. send in your application and duesFrom July 1 until October 1 dues are half price for new members*2011 Academy Dues - State & National ..................$536 $268

Student Dues............................................................$16

Or New Dentist Special Dues Rates - State & National 2010/1st year Graduate or Resident ........$ 141 2009 Graduate .................................................$ 244 $122 2008 Graduate .................................................$ 355 $177.5

2007 Graduate .................................................$ 465 $232.50

Local Component Dues $_________Dues vary by component area, see chart

Total Amount Due $___________Payment information Check Enclosed (Payable to Texas AGD)

Discover Master Card Visa

Card #__________-____________-___________-___________

Card Expiration Date________/_________

Signature___________________________________________

2011 Texas AGD Membership Application

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

tagd gp summer 2011

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