Letter to the Editor: A Call to Arms for Dentists: A Wake-up Call From the Future Page 37 The Florida Dentist's Guide to Peer Review Page 66
FDA MEMBERSHIP ISSUE
32 The Rise of the 17th Delegation
34 Inspired to Lead: A New Delegate’s Perspective
37 Letter to the Editor: A Call to Arms for Dentists: A Wake-up Call from the Future
41 Supporting Florida Dentists on Their Path to Wellness
44 If You Struggle with Something, Tell Someone!
48 Intimate Partner Violence During the Holidays: What Dental Professionals Should Know
50 Opening Doors: The Golden Foundation’s Impact on the Future of Dentistry
54 Bridging the Gap: Nova Southeastern University’s Commitment to Addressing Florida’s Rural Dental Needs
58 Closing the Dental Care Gap: How Florida's Free and Charitable Clinics Provide a Lifeline for Uninsured Patients and How Dentists Can Play a Part
62 2025-2026 FDA President Dr. John Paul
66 The Florida Dentist’s Guide to Peer Review
70 Board of Dentistry Discipline Enforcement Process
72 Board of Dentistry: A Quick Guide to the MQA Disciplinary Process Probable Cause Panels
73 Board of Dentistry: A Quick Guide to the MQA Disciplinary Process Discretionary Emergency Orders — 3 Things to Know
76 FDC 2026 Speaker: Why Some Dental Teams Thrive While Others Burn Out — And What Energy Has to Do With It
78 FDC 2026 Speaker: The Intersection of Medicine and Dentistry: Perspectives on the Dental Profession and Interprofessional Practice
82 FDC 2026 Exhibit Hall
84 Young Mom Gets Second Chance at Life Through Donated Dental Services
86 FDA District Dental Associations: Your Dental Community Starts Here
IN EVERY ISSUE
2 Staff Roster
President’s Message
Did You Know?
EDITOR
Dr. Hugh Wunderlich, CDE Palm Harbor
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
PRESIDENT
Dr. John Paul Lakeland
SECRETARY
Dr. Bertram Hughes Gainesville
SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE
Dr. Don Ilkka Leesburg
17TH DISTRICT TRUSTEE
Dr. Andy Brown Jacksonville
PRESIDENT-ELECT
Dr. Dan Gesek Jacksonville
IMMEDIATE PAST
PRESIDENT
Dr. Jeffrey Ottley Milton
TREASURER
Dr. Fred Grassin Spring Hill
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Drew Eason, CAE Tallahassee
To contact an FDA board member, use the first letter of their first name, then their last name, followed by @bot.floridadental.org. For example, to email Dr. Hugh Wunderlich, his email would be hwunderlich@bot.floridadental.org.
To call a specific staff member below, dial 850.350. followed by their extension.
EXECUTIVE OFFICE
Drew Eason • chief executive officer/executive director deason@floridadental.org Ext. 7109
Dan Zottoli, SBCS, DIF, LTCP director of sales • Atlantic Coast 561.791.7744 • cell: 561.601.5363 dan.zottoli@fdaservices.com
Dennis Head, CIC director of sales • Central Florida 877.843.0921 • cell: 407.927.5472 dennis.head@fdaservices.com
Brock Shelton director of sales • North Florida 850.350.7140 brock.shelton@fdaservices.com
Joseph Perretti, SBCS director of sales • South Florida cell: 305.721.9196 joe.perretti@fdaservices.com
Rick D’Angelo, CIC director of sales • West Coast 813.475.6948 • cell: 813.267.2572 rick.dangelo@fdaservices.com
Mike Trout director of sales cell: 904.254.8927 mike.trout@fdaservices.com
READY. SET. RENEW!
Keep Your Practice Moving — Renew Your License by February 28.
All Florida licensed dentists must renew their dental license for the 2024-2026 biennium by Feb. 28, 2026. You must complete 30 hours of CE credit to renew your dental license. Because you are an FDA member, we are here to help! The FDA o ers opportunities to earn 6 hours of free CE online at www.floridadental.org/online-ce.
NEW!
Fingerprinting & Background Screening Requirement
Requirements for First-Time Biennium Renewals
All Florida licensed dentists renewing their license by Feb. 28, 2026 must undergo a fingerprint-based Level 2 background check, including state and national criminal records checks, and are required to comply with the background screening requirements established in section 456.0135, F.S. Learn more at floridadental.org/fingerprinting.
If you are newly licensed (after Feb. 28, 2024) and renewing your license for the first time, you are only required to complete two courses for renewal. These courses are:
• 2 hours of CE on Prescribing Controlled Substances
• 2 hours of CE on HIV/AIDS
At the next renewal cycle, you must complete the full 30-hour requirement.
YOU MUST HAVE 30 HOURS OF CE CREDIT TO RENEW YOUR LICENSE
28 Hours of General Course Credit
Only 3 hours of the 28 hours can be practice management credit.
2 Hours of Domestic Violence Credits
This course is due every third biennium. Check your CE Broker account to confirm the last time you took this course.
2 Hours of Prescribing Controlled Substance Credit
This 2-hour course is included in the 28 hours of general course credit & must be taken each license renewal.
2 Hours of HIV/Aids Credits
This course is only required during your first license renewal cycle.
2 Hours of Medical Errors Credit
This course is required for all dentists and must be taken each license renewal.
You must have a current CPR certification to renew. The CPR certification course hours do not count toward the 30 hours required to renew.
QUESTIONS? Contact the FDA at ce@floridadental.org or 850.681.3629.
Why Advocacy Matters:
How the FDA Protects Florida Dentists Every Day
By FDA President John Paul, DMD
When your email is public and allows members to send you their thoughts and concerns, a common thread of questions is, “How could you let (insert your pain point here) happen?” Equally popular is the variant “How did that get past you?” Both imply that we were asleep at the wheel when something they didn’t like became a law or rule in the state of Florida. Currently, the number one comment I get is, “How could you let them make us get fingerprinted?” A much better question would be “How did you keep dentists from having to be fingerprinted for the past 30 years when every other health profession has had to do it as long as they can remember?”
Of the many good things our lobbyists have done for us, they somehow kept us below the radar until the Florida House and Senate decided that everyone with a license should be fingerprinted/background checked. It wasn’t aimed at dentists; we just got swept up in the flood.
Advocacy is the most popular answer when we ask what you want from the Florida Dental Association (FDA). Advocacy is having someone who represents you day in and day out in the best possible light and helps shape the profession in the way we professionals know will work best. I cannot overstress the importance of this. Our legislators are basically
FDAS CROWN SAVINGS
and significant
tdsc.com • 888.253.1223 support@tdsc.com
866.628.7232 ada.org/mercedes
ext. 36991 adavisa.com/36991
Advocacy is far from all we do. Most members don’t find out what we do until they need us, and thank goodness we are there.
good people, but they generally don’t know anything about what you do, how you learned to do it, or how to help you do it better. When we ask for funding for the veterans’ dental care grant project, part of the Florida Mission of Mercy (FLA-MOM), to improve Medicaid, it is easy for our opponents to portray us as wealthy, greedy dentists who want more money. You know that we don’t get paid a dime when we volunteer for veterans’ clinics or give up our weekends for FLA-MOM. Even if you aren’t a Medicaid provider, you probably know that after an onerous sign-up process, you won’t be reimbursed enough to cover the cost of seeing your patients.
Most people who didn’t attend dental school (your legislators) think dentistry is a three-year program. You aren’t “real doctors,” and you didn’t spend the first two years of dental school in the same classes as medical students, sitting side by side with them and setting the pathology curve for them. You can learn to do most of what we do in two years after graduating from high school (a few dentists share this belief as well). The reason you don’t see enough (insert any underserved group) is that you haven’t been educated, and 10 more hours of continuing education every year will ensure that this patient population receives adequate care.
These are all things we have heard more than once in the halls of Tallahassee. The FDA has been there to set the record straight. Sometimes, with a bit of gentle education, immersing them in FLA-MOM, and sometimes calling them out for being insulting and misrepresenting their opinions without supporting facts.
If there were no FDA, you would either not be represented in Tallahassee or you would have to do it yourself. Take much more time out of your office, spend significantly more money on travel and lodging, not counting the money lost because you aren’t working. Try to get appointments with your representatives, all the while not having a cohesive message to present, along with about 8,000 of your friends.
This isn’t a message to scare you into being a member. The FDA does this and both members and non-members benefit. We will advocate for our members, the profession and the public of Florida as long as we can, in every venue we can, with every voice we have. If more dentists decide they don’t need to be members, they don’t see the value of membership, they don’t have the time, then the time will come when the FDA doesn’t have the resources to be effective.
Advocacy is far from all we do. Most members don’t find what we do until they need us, and thank goodness we are there. The list of resources available to you as a member is too extensive to catalog here. The newest benefit is a Member Assistance Program, where you or any member of your family can access short-term, confidential counseling at no additional cost to you. Look up our many other benefits on the website floridadental.org; scroll to the top of the page to view the banners. This is your FDA and we are here for you!
FDA President Dr. Paul can be reached at jpaul@bot.floridadental.org
HEALTH CARE PROVIDER CHECKLIST:
Nonopioid alternatives are available for pain treatment, which may include nonopioid medicinal drugs or drug products.
Nonopioid interventional procedures or treatments are available, which may include: acupuncture, chiropractic treatments, massage, physical or occupational therapy or other appropriate therapy.
DISCUSS
ien
t ien t ’s pers
DOCUMENT IN PATIENT’S RECORD
PROVIDE
“Alternatives to Opioids,” an educational information pamphlet created by the Florida Department of Health is available in printed and electronic formats (required, available at bit.ly/2KXvZ2h). A checklist and poster are also available.
SUMMARY:
All health care providers must include nonopioid alternatives for pain and pain management electronically or in printed form in their discussions with patients before providing anesthesia, or prescribing, ordering, dispensing or administering a schedule II controlled substance for the treatment of pain.
The FDA Now Provides a Program for You to Certify Your Hygienist or Assistant in Restorative Functions!
By FDA Chief Legal Officer Casey Stoutamire
The Florida Dental Association’s (FDA) new restorative function dental auxiliary (RFDA) program allows your qualified assistant or hygienist (under your direct supervision) to place, pack and contour restorations using slowspeed only — after you have prepared the tooth. Learn more at floridadental.org/rfda.
The FDA has partnered with Tallahassee State College’s (TSC) Hygiene Program to allow for your hygienist or assistant to become certified under Florida Board of Dentistry guidelines.
Training includes:
• A 10-hour didactic portion will be provided online in the FDA’s learning management software.
• 70 hours in a simulated lab
• 13 hours on live patients will be provided during four consecutive weekends at TSC.
Additionally, you, the delegating dentist, will provide 12 hours of clinical experience in your office.
FDA Chief Legal Officer Casey Stoutamire can be reached at cstoutamire@floridadental.org.
FDA Prepares for the 2026 Legislative Session
By FDA Chief Legislative Officer Joe Anne Hart
The Florida Dental Association (FDA) is preparing for the 2026 Legislative Session, which begins in January 2026. With an early start, our advocacy efforts are fully underway in Tallahassee, as legislators are filing bills that will be considered and debated. Each session looks different since no one really knows what bills will be filed that will have a direct or indirect impact on your industry. You try your best to anticipate what may be considered, but you also have to evaluate which specific issues and initiatives you want to move forward with.
Building on Past Successes
The FDA has been proactive in championing initiatives such as the Dental Student Loan Repayment Program to incentivize dentists to work in rural and underserved areas. The implementation process is still underway as we continue to work on tactics to ensure eligible dentists can participate. To the contrary, there are groups advocating for the creation of a new licensed dental provider in Florida to address access to dental care, but instead of debating the merits of the issue, they choose to engage in smear campaigns. Floridians deserve better than this, and the FDA has a solid reputation
During the 2026 Legislative Session, the FDA will fight to protect the standard of care for all Floridians, especially the most medically compromised groups, from less trained providers looking to perform irreversible procedures like extractions.
for putting its money where its mouth is. The FDA has been successful in securing state funds for the Florida Mission of Mercy (FLA-MOM) program. The investment by the state, along with generous donations from sponsors, including dentists, has helped thousands get relief from dental pain and infections for years.
Advocating for Fair and Transparent Practices
During the 2026 Legislative Session, the FDA will pursue legislation to address Medicaid dental fees and network adequacy of providers in the dental managed care plans. Dentists who agree to participate as a Medicaid provider should feel confident that reimbursement rates are not provided below the state’s published fee schedule. Additionally, patients seeking dental care through dental managed care plans should be able to find a dentist who is available to provide care within a reasonable time and distance. Dental managed care plans must be held accountable for providing up-to-date information regarding their provider networks. The FDA will also pursue legis-
ARE YOU A MEMBER OF
lation that addresses network leasing and downcoding policies that unfairly impact dentists, who are unaware of these practices after signing contracts with dental insurance plans. For years, the legislature has been supportive of the FLA-MOM program. The FDA will request state funding for the next FLA-MOM scheduled to be held in Northwest Florida.
Get Involved – Attend Dentists' Day on The Hill
Make plans now to be a part of the team to help get the FDA’s legislative agenda across the finish line. Join us for Dentists’ Day on the Hill on Tuesday, Jan. 27, in Tallahassee. Registration is open! Be sure to read your weekly Capital Report to get the latest information on what’s happening during the legislative session. You can also follow us on Instagram at fda_gao.
FDA Chief Legislative Officer Joe Anne Hart can be reached at jahart@floridadental.org.
FDAPAC CENTURY CLUB?
A portion of your dues is transferred to the Florida Dental Association Political Action Committee (FDAPAC). FDAPAC provides campaign contributions to dental-friendly candidates.
FDAPAC Century Club members provide additional financial support of $150 or more for state campaigns. FDAPAC dues and contributions are not deductible for federal income tax purposes.
SAVE OUR SMILES
Join us to protect dentistry and improve access for all Floridians. WE NEED YOUR HELP
Tuesday, January 27, 2026
SOS: Support Strategies That Show Proven Results
SOS: Help Floridians Access Dental Care Now
SOS: Ensure Quality Dental Care for All
MONDAY, JANUARY 26, 6PM
Legislative Briefing
Hotel Duval • 415 N. Monroe St. (8th floor)
Complimentary dinner to follow
TUESDAY, JANUARY 27
Capitol Visits
Lunch Provided
HOTEL DUVAL ROOM BLOCK AVAILABLE
$272 per night - click here 415 N. Monroe St. • Tallahassee
REGISTRATION OPEN!
Dentists’ Day on The Hill
January 27, 2026 • Tallahassee
FDA members
earn up to 6 hours of general continuing education (CE) by reading the Diagnostic Discussion column included in the bi-monthly Today’s FDA and taking a quick online quiz
Discussions
quizzes
Why an FDA Services Review Is Worth Your Time
By FDA Services Chief Operating Officer Scott Ruthstrom
When was the last time you took a close look at your insurance coverage? If you’re like most dental professionals, you probably renew your policies automatically each year. But coverage details, premiums and carrier programs can change — sometimes significantly.
That’s where the Florida Dental Association Services (FDAS) makes all the difference.
A Personalized Insurance Review
FDAS agents don’t simply quote policies; they start by reviewing what you already have. They’ll walk you through your current coverages of
professional liability, business property, workers’ compensation, disability and more. From there, they provide side-by-side comparisons of your existing plans with the options FDAS offers through trusted, dentist-focused carriers like The Doctors Company, Liberty Mutual, Main Street America, Chubb and others. You’ll see, in clear terms, how FDAS products stack up in terms of cost, coverage limits and value-added benefits.
You’ll see, in clear terms, how FDAS products stack up in terms of cost, coverage limits and value-added benefits.
Why This Matters
Dentistry has unique risks that most general insurance agents don’t fully understand. FDAS specializes in serving dental practices and group practices, so we know what matters most to you, such as coverage for Botox procedures, cyber liability protection for patient records and equipment breakdowns that could interrupt care.
Even if you’re confident in your current insurance setup, a quick conversation with an FDAS advisor often reveals gaps, overlaps or missed opportunities for savings and stronger protection. It’s a simple way to ensure your policies are working as hard as you do.
For Members and Non-members Alike
For FDA members, this is an excellent reminder to take advantage of your member benefits. FDAS exists to serve you, not outside shareholders —and your support helps generate non-dues revenue that strengthens organized dentistry in Florida.
For non-members, consider this an open invitation. FDAS demonstrates daily why Florida dentists created it in the first place — to protect practices, reduce costs and keep premiums based on real dental claims experience, not generalized medical data.
Your Next Step
Whether you’re reviewing a single policy or your full insurance portfolio, the FDAS team is ready to help. A simple policy review can reveal better options, eliminate surprises and confirm that your coverage is exactly what you need — nothing more, nothing less.
Call or text FDAS today at 850.681.2996 or visit fdaservices.com to schedule your complimentary coverage comparison.
FDAS Chief Operating Officer Scott Ruthstrom can be reached at scott.ruthstrom@fdaservices.com
The Power of the FDA Insurance Concierge
By FDA Secretary Bertram J. Hughes, DMD
Dental benefits are the third most sought-after benefit from employees in today’s workforce. Thus, dental insurance has become a significant payment model for many dental practices in Florida. Unfortunately, many plans institute administrative burdens, have low reimbursement rates and perpetuate policies that are neither patient nor dental provider friendly.
Did You Know that the Florida Dental Association (FDA) has a “third-party payers concierge service?” This service can not only help you navigate your own office claims, but also help you lead the way in getting insurance companies to make meaningful policy changes, from MetLife not being able to recoup payments from a non-treating dentist to Florida Combined Life removing
Your practice’s success matters to the FDA. Whether you are in-network or out-of-network, “Team FDA” is here to help you succeed.
restrictions on how scaling and root planing is delivered. Your practice’s success matters to the FDA. Whether you are in-network or out-of-network, “Team FDA” is here to help you succeed. Contact the FDA’s Chief Legal Officer at cstoutamire@floridadental.org or by calling 850.224.1089.
FDA Secretary and Vice Chair of the ADA Council on Dental Benefit Programs, Dr. Bert Hughes can be reached at BHughes@bot.floridadental.org.
Membership Is a Career Strategy — Not Simply a Dues Payment
By ArNelle Wright, DMD, MS
When I graduated from dental school, I thought “organized dentistry” was confined to continuing education (CE) meetings focused on building clinical skills and practice management. When a classmate invited me to the local dental society and encouraged me to raise my hand to get involved, that earlier perspective quickly changed.
The simple act of joining — and then participating — has been the most reliable flywheel for my career: it has opened the doors to growing as a leader, and into leadership positions which preserve the profession, al-
lowing me to connect with seasoned decision-makers in dentistry, accelerated my transition from being an associate in a large group-practice (DSO) to now being a private practice owner, and gave me the network and resources to thrive.
If you’re a new dentist, here’s my case for why membership isn’t an-
other line item in your budget — it’s a lever.
1. Membership Multiplies Your Opportunities
The American Dental Association calls it the “Power of Three”: local, state and national membership working together to shape your career and our profession. When
you plug into all three levels, you gain insights into dental education, leadership and policy, while contributing to the betterment of dentistry. I’ve experienced the compounding growth this has had on my career in a short period of time, and the world of opportunities that I’d never have known existed had I not simply volunteered my time. If you’ve ever been intrigued by how the profession experiences continuity and who makes it happen, sharing your gifts and talents at any level of organized dentistry is the answer. I was so surprised by how a simple yes would transform the trajectory of my career — and in a short period of time, which brings me to my next point: mentorship.
2. Mentorship Shortens the Distance From Where You Are to Where You Want to Be New dentists aren’t just the future; we’re the present workforce and the pulse of emerging patient needs. I can confidently say that I became a practice owner because the leaders in our dental associations witnessed my abilities firsthand and vouched for me. It was my presence, the proximity and their willingness to offer their expertise and contacts for the next leg of my career journey. The mentorship I needed was there, in the form of seasoned dentists who, too, had been volunteering their time and ultimately paving the way for future leaders like you and me. It was this intentional mentorship that informed my journey from associate to owner, because I wasn’t forced to
new dentist
After all, there’s an old saying that expresses the impact of a team: “Together Everyone Achieves More.”
See you at the next meeting. I’ll save you a seat.
reinvent the wheel at every step. If you want a more seamless path to success, I encourage you to go where mentors already gather: local society and component meetings, state lobby days, new-dentist forums and national meetings.
The tripartite organizations (national, state and local) have set targets to increase the number of new dentists represented across councils and committees to better reflect member demographics. What this means is that there is space — and a need — for your voice, and it’s needed now. When you step in, you shape CE agendas, wellness initiatives and policy priorities that will govern your daily practice for decades. Although I understand that practice ownership isn’t a path every dentist is interested in, I hope that, regardless of your practice modality, you’ll explore the option to give back to a profession that’s intentionally holding the door open for the next generation.
What Membership Did for Me and What it Can Do for You
From my role as editor of the quarterly journal to my first committee seat, to now hosting events at national dental meetings, and, of
course, from being a corporate associate to buying and rebuilding a practice, organized dentistry has been the throughline. Membership gave me mentors before I knew which questions to ask. It gave me tangible business tools to apply to my career transition. Ultimately, it reminded me: I’m not building this alone.
You want earlier wins? Shorter learning curves? A steadier practice? Join, then participate — your participation is key. Not because someone told you to “just pay dues”, but because the fastest way to build a meaningful career is to build it with your peers. If you’re early in your career, creating a network that normalizes asking for help is as strategic as choosing your supply representative. As we close the year and look ahead, I hope to see you at future meetings, serving across the state and making a difference.
Dr. ArNelle Wright is the FDA’s 17th District Alternate Delegate to the ADA and serves as chair of the FDA New Dentist Task Force. She can be reached at arnellewrightdmd@gmail.com
Scan here to meet the 2026 speakers
March 12-14, 2026 ★ Atlanta, GA
113th Thomas P. Hinman Dental Meeting
Dr. E. David Anderson, General Chair ★ Dr. J. Andrew Ramsey, President
Schedule some time to visit our vast Exhibit Hall for a world of learning outside the classroom.
Take a deep dive on the hottest topics in dentistry, taught by our world-class speakers and experts in the industry.
What Your Team Says in the First 30 Seconds Determines Everything
By David Rice, DDS
Ask most docs or office managers what their #1 goal is when the phone rings, and you’ll get what we rarely get in dentistry ... total agreement to schedule the patient.
Now I would agree with a twist: schedule a lifelong patient who feels compelled to tell their friends, family and co-workers that they’ve finally found the dental practice.
We coach many practices at IGNITEDDS (ignitedds.com/ coaching/). And one of the most common blind spots we find, whether in a solo practice or a multi-location group, is that the new patient call is unstructured, inconsistent and undervalued. This isn’t because team members aren’t great at what they do; it’s simply because there’s no real recipe for anyone to answer the phone at any time and create the same amazing experience.
Here’s the thing: those new patient calls are the single most influential system that drives long-term case acceptance, referrals and retention.
When that call is patient-centric and you design it with intention, you don’t just book appointments — you gain insights and build trust that set the stage for a patient experience that delivers clinical and financial success from day one.
The Problem: Random Calls Create Random Results
If I had a nickel for every call we’ve heard where a patient opens with “Do you take my insurance,” and a practice loses that caller in the next 15 seconds … well … I would be writing this from a spectacular island and sending my helicopter to come pick you up to visit. And that’s just one call drop killer.
In many practices, new patient calls are handled differently by every team member:
• One person focuses on insurance.
• Another rushes to fill a schedule hole.
• Another gives a polished greeting but forgets to actually learn anything about the patient.
Dr. David Rice
practice management
"This is Lori — I’m so glad you called! May I ask who’s calling and how I can best help you smile today?”
The result?
Missed opportunities, frustrated callers and a schedule full of patients who might not be a fit and may or may not show up.
Even worse, the dentist walks into a consult or treatment room on day one with zero context about what the patient values most. Please read the following twice: Case acceptance begins with the very first patient contact.
The Solution: A Systems-Based, Patient-First Call
A true system means that every team member who answers the phone knows what to say, when to say it and why it matters.
We use a simple, customizable New Patient Call Sheet in our coaching and it’s not just about the usual need-toknow logistics that many think will help them. It’s built to help your team capture the minimum must-know: the clinical details and the human story.
Here’s what that system looks like when done right:
1. The Greeting: Make “Hello” Your Brand Moment The first five seconds define the tone of your practice.
Smile before you speak. I know you’ve heard that; however, people can hear it. Introduce yourself and practice in a way that feels intentional, not scripted.
Example: “Thank you for calling East Amherst Dental Center. This is Lori — I’m so glad you called! May I ask who’s calling and how I can best help you smile today?”
It’s warm, it’s professional and it subtly plants your practice philosophy right away: we are here to help our patients smile.
2. The Discovery: Go Beyond Data — Find Their “Why” Traditional call sheets collect facts:
• Name
• Contact info
• Insurance
• Appointment preference
A systems-based call collects meaning and a few example questions:
• “What made you decide to reach out today?”
• “Has anything been bothering you about your smile or comfort lately?”
• “When was your last dental visit — and how was that experience?”
• “What did you love most about your last practice?”
• “What didn’t you like?”
• And one that frightens many I meet is when someone has an urgent need … “How soon can you get here?”
These questions uncover motivators (what this patient wants) and pain points (what they don’t want).
This knowledge helps us treat each patient the way they’d like to be treated from the moment we meet in person and that is powerful.
Example: If a patient says, “My last dentist made me feel rushed,” your clinical team now knows that connection and time are part of this patient’s trust currency.
3. The Alignment: Position the Practice as the Solution Once you know what matters most, connect their priorities to your strengths.
If they mention fear or anxiety: “You’ll love our team. We focus on gentle, unhurried care. We’ll consistently check
in with you and make sure you feel comfortable every step of the way.”
If they mention time or convenience: “We know how important your time is and we pride ourselves on being extremely efficient. You’ll meet your dentist, Dr. Rice and his assistant, Christy and you will have their total focus. We will use the latest technologies and techniques to ensure your time here is maximized so we can get you back to your day as quickly as possible.”
This builds buy-in before they ever arrive.
4. The Information: Gather the Essentials — Efficiently
This is where a call sheet system shines.
It gathers everything you’ll need without the robotic feel. Your team can move seamlessly through:
• Contact info
• Insurance or payment method
• Referred by / marketing source
• Appointment confirmation preferences
Because the emotional groundwork was already laid, this step now feels easy rather than a transactional box to check.
5. The Pre-Frame: Set the Expectation for the Experience
This is one of the most significant missed opportunities in dentistry.
Before the call ends, pre-frame what will happen at the first visit. This single step massively reduces no-shows and builds anticipation.
Example: “David, at your first visit, you will meet your doctor and we will do a full scan and photo series. Then we will take a comprehensive look at your gum health, your bite and of course, your teeth and you’ll leave knowing exactly where your smile and health stand. Most of our patients tell us they’ve never had an experience like this before.”
You’ve just shifted the mindset from “I’m going to the dentist” to “I’m about to have a premium wellness experience.”
Why This System Works
A structured patient-first call system doesn’t just improve your new patient flow; it transforms your team’s confidence and your brand reputation.
I’ll break it down a little further:
Lifetime patient Unpredictable Consistent, value
Let’s be honest, this doesn’t routinely happen for a few reasons. It feels like an overwhelming amount of work to build systems and develop our team. We worry our team will feel overworked and overwhelmed and we don’t know where to start.
I get it, because I’ve been there.
However, when your team feels competent and confident to lead conversations, they’ll love it. It removes all the guesswork. And patients feel cared for, they trust faster, and they say yes more often.
From System to Culture
Once you have the script and the call sheet, the next step is calibration and team development. Set the tone that you’re chasing progress rather than perfection, share that you will record a few new patient calls each week (this is key - do not do this behind your team’s back - it kills trust), have a team meeting, play them back and get better together and coach for connection, not perfection.
Ask:
• Did we discover what truly mattered to the patient?
• Did we build trust?
• Did we confidently guide next steps?
THE PERFECT GIFT
‘Tis the Season to Save up to $500 on the 2025 GLC SUV
Unwrap FDA-member savings starting at $500* on the 2025 GLC SUV, 2025 GLA SUV, and 2025 GLS SUV. Each SUV heightens every journey with intuitive MBUX technology and provides peace of mind with intelligent driver assistance features like Blind Spot Assist. Visit ada.org/Mercedes and click on “Access Your Discount” to sign up for your incentive. Then, dash to your local authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer to see one today. ada.org/Mercedes
*Fleet incentives available only for qualified customers on certain Mercedes-Benz models. Not all engine variants are eligible for Fleet incentives. Please confirm with dealership if chosen vehicle is eligible for Fleet incentives at the time of purchase. Incentive must be used at time of purchase/lease. Incentives vary based on vehicle model and purchase method as indicated. Control numbers are only valid for 60 days, or the end of the current calendar year (whichever occurs first). MBUSA can’t generate or reactivate control numbers, so members need to be sure they are ready to purchase and take delivery. All current program rules remain in effect and as stated in the program rules, specifically: MBUSA has the right to grant or deny a Control Number. If granted, the control number is not assignable and only the member (and their co-buyer or co-lessee) is authorized to use the control number. Control numbers are a benefit to the member and the member must be listed as the buyer/co-buyer or lessee/co-lessee and listed as a registered owner of the vehicle. Star AccessSM incentives cannot be used in conjunction with Diplomat, European Delivery, Special Demos, Certificate Programs, Mercedes-Benz Incentive Bonus Cash and other Fleet programs, or non-U.S. specification vehicles. Incentive amounts are subject to change on a monthly basis and should be confirmed with your de aler at the time of transaction. Amount of actual savings may vary depending on model selected and purchase method. Offer expires Jan. 2, 2026.
practice management
Over time, this system becomes part of your practice culture — it’s just the way you do it.
The Next Steps
When this makes sense to you, connect with me at david.rice@ignitedds.com. I’ll send you our call sheet and for those of you who really want to make it happen, I’ll schedule a 30-minute team meeting and walk you through it.
FDA members get a 10% discount; learn more at floridadental. org/member-center/member-resources/ignitedds. Dr. Rice can be reached at david.rice@ignitedds.com.
Best-selling author, executive coach and founder of IgniteDDS, the nation’s largest community for new dentists and students, Dr. David Rice is a dynamic thought leader in the world of dentistry. With a passion for mentorship, leadership and business success, Dr. Rice travels the globe educating and connecting today’s top young dentists to their self-determined future.
As Editor-in-Chief of DentistryIQ and Adjunct Faculty at The Pankey Institute, Dr. Rice is at the forefront of innovation in dentistry, guiding professionals in clinical excellence, business mastery and leadership development.
NEED TO UPDATE YOUR CONTACT INFORMATION OR RECENTLY RETIRED/RETIRING SOON?
HAD A CHANGE TO YOUR CONTACT INFO. THIS YEAR?
Make sure your email, cell phone, practice and home addresses on file with us are up-to-date at ada.org/myada using your email on file as your username or call us 850.681.3629.
RECENTLY RETIRED OR RETIRING SOON?
If you have recently retired or have plans to retire on or before March 31, 2026, please contact Megan Bakan at mbakan@ floridadental.org or 850.681.3629 to complete your retired affidavit through a quick and easy DocuSign form. Most retired members pay little or no dues to maintain their membership and keep access to all their benefits and services.
THE FDA NOW PROVIDES A PROGRAM FOR YOU TO CERTIFY YOUR HYGIENIST OR ASSISTANT IN RESTORATIVE FUNCTIONS!
The Florida Dental Association’s (FDA) new restorative function dental auxiliary (RFDA) program allows your qualified assistant or hygienist (under your direct supervision) to place, pack and contour restorations using slowspeed only — after you have prepared the tooth. Learn more at floridadental.org/rfda.
The FDA has partnered with Tallahassee State College’s (TSC) Hygiene Program to allow for your hygienist or assistant to become certified under Florida Board of Dentistry guidelines.
Training includes:
• 10-hour didactic portion will be provided online in the FDA’s learning management software.
• 70 hours in a simulated lab
• 13 hours on live patients will be provided during four consecutive weekends at TSC.
• Additionally, you, the delegating dentist, will provide 12 hours of clinical experience in your office.
Registration will be going live soon! The price is $7,000 per student for FDA members.
For more information, please email rfda@floridadental. org
WORKERS’ COMPENSATION RATE DECREASE ALERT!
Good news for dental practices: Workers’ compensation rates are set to decrease again, effective Jan. 2026, to 0.22 per $100 in payroll, marking the eighth consecutive year of rate reductions!
FDA Services (FDAS) Insider Tip: Don’t skip your annual audit (also known as your “true-up”). Your workers’ compensation premium is based on estimated annual payroll, and the audit ensures your premium reflects your actual payroll.
If you don’t complete the audit, many carriers automatically increase your estimated payroll, meaning you could be paying more than you need to. Make sure to submit your audit on time and enjoy the continued savings!
And remember, if you don’t buy any other policies through FDAS, you should at least purchase your workers’ compensation through us. Not only are rates state-regulated (so you’ll pay the same wherever you go), but your premiums help support organized dentistry and the vital advocacy work that protects your profession. Call them today to learn more at 800.877.7597!
The American Dental Association’s Practice Institute, with input from multiple ADA councils and practicing dentists, has developed the Medicaid Financial Sustainability Toolkit.
The toolkit is designed to help dentists deliver care to Medicaid beneficiaries with greater confidence, efficiency and financial viability. It features real-world guidance, customizable templates and centralized access to every state’s Medicaid fee-for-service schedules — a resource updated twice a year.
Members can learn more at ada.org/medicaidfinancialtoolkit.
LEADERS EMERGING AMONG DENTISTRY
Step into leadership with confidence at the Florida Dental Association’s Leaders Emerging Among Dentistry (LEAD) 2026 program — a one-day experience designed for dentists and dental students ready to expand their influence and grow as leaders in their practices and within the FDA. This high-energy day combines expert-led sessions, practical skill-building and inspiring conversations that will help you lead with clarity, courage and purpose.
• Cost: $25.00 for FDA members and Dental students
For more information and to register, visit floridadental. org/lead. Spots are limited and this program always sells out – so go online and register today!
Where in the World is Today’s FDA?
Thank you, Drs. Philip Gibson and Brian Rask, for taking Today's FDA to the British Virgin Islands!
Do you have vacation plans this year? On your next trip, take a copy of Today’s FDA with you, take a photo and send it to jrunyan@floridadental.org to see it featured in an upcoming issue.
Where will Today’s FDA venture next?
UTILIZE
THE FDA’S
JUMPSTART PROGRAM IN SOLVING WORKFORCE CHALLENGES
The FDA’s Jumpstart program is an initiative to connect member dentists with pre-dental students who are interested in volunteering or working with dental offices. It’s a creative solution to assist in solving workforce challenges faced by Florida dentists. Jumpstart is a fast pass for students to gain real-world experience, connect with dentists and master skills that will help them stand out in the dental school application process and in the competitive field of dentistry. All of this while providing staffing for offices that may have difficulty hiring the right people. A true win-win!
As a result of the FDA’s efforts, members can access a student directory at floridadental.org/jumpstart. It notes students’ geographic location, interests and roles they could fill. If you have an interest in engaging any of these students, please contact them directly and make suitable arrangements. If you know pre-dental students who may be interested registering, encourage them to visit floridadental. org/jumpstart to sign up and learn more about transforming their enthusiasm into expertise.
Welcome New FDA Members
Learn more by visiting our virtual Member Center at floridadental.org
The following dentists recently joined the Florida Dental Association (FDA). Their memberships allow them to develop a strong network of fellow professionals who understand the day-to-day triumphs and tribulations of practicing dentistry.
Atlantic Coast District
Dental Association
Dr. Virtue Abidoye, Sunrise
Dr. Farhan Ahmed, Wellington
Dr. Alyssa Alvarez, Aventura
Dr. Rafaella Baia, Deerfield Beach
Dr. Alec Bankhead, West Palm Beach
Dr. Nicole Bell, Plantation
Dr. Alexander Bendayan, Plantation
Dr. Natalie Benkandil, Miami
Dr. Janvie Bharucha, Plantation
Dr. Erick Delgado, Plantation
Dr. Avi Dumanis, Fort Lauderdale
Dr. Christopher Garcia, Plantation
Dr. Karen Giraldo Moncada, Boca Raton
Dr. Robert Herrod, Plantation
Dr. Lyric Hildebrandt, Palm Beach Gardens
Dr. Rod Khansari, Jupiter
Dr. Peter Koseck, Fort Lauderdale
Dr. Austin Krauza, Port Saint Lucie
Dr. Philip Martin, Margate
Dr. Angelina Mitianova, Fort Lauderdale
Dr. Muryum Naim, Boynton Beach
Dr. Stuart Newman, Palm Beach Gardens
Dr. Kyle O’Connor, Fort Lauderdale
Dr. Tarina Patel, Wellington
Dr. Patricia Reynoso, Fort Lauderdale
Dr. Marbis Riveron, West Palm Beach
Dr. Hugo Rodriguez, Coconut Creek
Dr. Patricia Ruiz De Nunez, Dorchester
Dr. Derek Schutzman, Boca Raton
Dr. Brian Sosa, Plantation
Dr. Diana Soto, Vero Beach
Dr. Mara Stein, Boynton Beach
Dr. Alvaro Torrejon, Delray Beach
Dr. Cara Vota, Fort Lauderdale
Dr. Brian Whitenack, Plantation
Dr. Dounia Yazji, Palm City
Dr. Janaina Zanaga, Dorchester
Central Florida District Dental Association
Dr. Mohand Alruwaili, Philadelphia
Dr. Seyed Emadaldin Amini, Orlando
Dr. Sepideh Aminmansour, Gainesville
Dr. Cameron Barrett, Longwood
Dr. Hen Bershadskiy, Lady Lake
Dr. Katherine Cabrera, Clermont
Dr. John Chase, New Smyrna Beach
Dr. Dominic Cortassa, Gainesville
Dr. Emily Dao, Winter Park
Dr. Jose Divo Materan, Altamonte Springs
Dr. Renee Fajardin, Altamonte Springs
Dr. Briana Fannin, Clermont
Dr. Caroline Gekas, Flower Mound
Dr. Mark Girgis, Ocala
Dr. Alexxis Harris, Gainesville
Dr. Carlos Hernandez Pavon, Kissimmee
Dr. Daniel Hickman, Orange City
Dr. Kaylyn Hudson, Winter Garden
Dr. Nikki Ishak, Melbourne
Dr. Graham Jones, Oviedo
Dr. Saeed Karimipour, Gainesville
Dr. Rula Khalaf, Orlando
Dr. Tumader Khouja, Gainesville
Dr. Anusha Kumar, Ormond Beach
Dr. Maryana Lago Dalmeida, Apopka
Dr. Luke Maddox, Gainesville
Dr. Lane McCoy, Indialantic
Dr. Jancy Pena Alberty, Maitland
Dr. Maya Rifai, Gainesville
Dr. Patricia Rodriguez Sanchez, Orlando
Dr. Ahmed Sajini, Gainesville
Dr. Dino Jubal Salvanera, Winter Park
Dr. Vanessa Sargent, Gainesville
Dr. Priyanka Sharma, Gainesville
Dr. Jeremy Stultz, Riverview
Dr. Mia Szymonowicz, Newberry
Dr. Melanie Thomas, Ocoee
Dr. Saajan Vemala, Lake Mary
Dr. Michael Walbom, Belle Isle
Dr. Toneia Washington, Stedman
Dr. Austin Wilkes, Gainesville
Dr. Maryam Zargar, Port Orange
Northeast District
Dental Association
Dr. Abeer Alkhaldi, Jacksonville
Dr. Damian Alvarado, Middleburg
Dr. Abraham Asturia, Jacksonville Beach
Dr. Stephanie Catalano Pivec, Jacksonville
Dr. Tyler Chin, Jacksonville
Dr. Nnenda Chuku, Ponte Vedra
Dr. Sarah David, Jacksonville
Dr. Sarah Lainey Davis, Jacksonville Beach
Dr. Emerald Karic, Ponte Vedra
Dr. Evan McVicker, Gainesville
Dr. Sabine Merville, Jacksonville
Dr. Nisha Mody, Jacksonville
Dr. Anika Moffitt, Jacksonville
Dr. Lucia Najera Bonilla, Jacksonville
Dr. Tennyson Nguyen, Winter Park
Dr. Diego Paz, Ponte Vedra Beach
Dr. Shawn Perry, St. Johns
Dr. Jill Rowland, St. Johns
in memoriam
The FDA honors the memory and passing of the following members:
Roberto R Perdomo Jr.
Coral Gables
Died: 8/8/2025 Age: 89
Dr. Hannah Czarina Rustia, Ponte Vedra
Dr. Ahmed Soliman, Jacksonville
Dr. Madison Sullivan, Jacksonville Beach
Dr. Bianca Uttamchandani, Jacksonville
Northwest District
Dental Association
Dr. Chabeli Abraham, Pensacola
Dr. Kirollos Ayoub, Pensacola
Dr. Alexanderia Bertrand, Panama City Beach
Dr. Spencer Boone, Niceville
Dr. Chance Dalton, Tallahassee
Dr. Maria Flynn, Panama City
Dr. John Hastings, Niceville
Dr. Shelby Hatchett, Panama City
Dr. Arianna Khaira, Panama City
Dr. Selvan Manthiram, Tallahassee
Dr. Grace Mougey, Charleston
Dr. Lauren Quintela, Tallahassee
Dr. Sydney Shepard, Destin
Dr. Amy Smith, Niceville
Dr. Gary Weller, Santa Rosa Beach
Dr. Zahraa Abdulabbas, Thonotosassa
South Florida District
Dental Association
Dr. Stephen Alexander, Boynton Beach
Dr. Laurent Alfonso Azcona, Miami
Dr. George Alvarez, Miami
Dr. Jason Barkley, Marathon
Dr. Matthew Bec, Coral Gables
Dr. Yina Briceno Ibraim, Doral
Dr. Lorena Delgado, Miami
Dr. Nelia Espeso Napoles, Bloomfield
Dr. Karla Flores, Pinecrest
Dr. Yaneth Gerardi De Antoniis, Miami Beach
Dr. Janz Gonzalez, Miami
Dr. Taidiana Gonzalez Santander, Hialeah
Dr. Christil Jones, Davie
Carl G Wirth
Denver, Colorado
Died: 10/1/2025 Age: 92
Dr. Jackie Kostenko, Miami
Dr. Jesus Lago, Coral Gables
Dr. Maria Lovo Caceres, Davie
Dr. Carlos Martin Perdomo, Harrison
Dr. Joseph McCain, Miami
Dr. Meylin Melgarejo Soto, Miramar
Dr. Sabrina Montiel Morales, Weston
Dr. Marcos Moscoso Hartmann, Hialeah
Dr. Fabiola Mosquera Gomes, Miami
Dr. Samantha Otero, Miami
Dr. Wladimir Padron, Pembroke Pines
Dr. Patricia Romero Chirino, Hawthorne
Dr. Adelle Sabery, Davie
Dr. Alfonso Salcines, Coral Gables
Dr. Geoffrey Sas, Golden Beach
Dr. Linda Shahin, Miami
Dr. Lesley-Ann Stephen, Miramar
Dr. Rebekah Suissa, Hollywood
Dr. Christel Torres Quiroga, Hollywood
Dr. Lina Truong, Pembroke Pines
Dr. Brittany Urena, Davie
Dr. Gabriella Valladares, Miami
Dr. Emely Vidal, Hialeah
Dr. Urjita Vinchurkar, Davie
Dr. Ashley Yeshoua, Aventura
West Coast District
Dental Association
Dr. Abdulrhman Abouali, Lakeland
Dr. Lucille Alpert, Naples
Dr. Noah Altschuler, Clearwater
Dr. Monika Ayoub, New Port Richey
Dr. Robert Batsevich, Parrish
Dr. Malik Bourghli, Spring Hill
Dr. Mary Byrnes, Safety Harbor
Dr. Nathan Carper, Estero
Dr. Loraine Cerejido Marquez, Cape Coral
Dr. Chun Han Chang, Wesley Chapel
Dr. Maria Chirivella, Winter Haven
Dr. Ashley Clark, Spring Hill
Dr. Skyler Clark, Clearwater
Marten W Quadland
Sarasota
Died: 10/13/2025
Age: 85
Dr. Claudia Coello, Cape Coral
Dr. James Cullen, Naples
Dr. Dillon DePergola, Seminole
Dr. Olga Dontsova, Sarasota
Dr. Indira Garcia Martinez, San Juan
Dr. Dayli Guzman Vidal, Clearwater
Dr. Kristina Hanhan, Tampa
Dr. Caroline Henson, Tampa
Dr. Sydney Johnson, Sarasota
Dr. Messalina Lavin Capote, Fort Myers
Dr. Ronald Leader, Venice
Dr. Alfredo Lopez, Eagle Lake
Dr. Anisabel Lopez De Castro Bolufer, North Port
Dr. Lilianne Lorenzo, Miami
Dr. Abraham Mathew, Valrico
Dr. Mark Mozzicato, Dunedin
Dr. Ushakiran Mupparaju, St. Petersburg
Dr. Maysara Nassar, Pearland
Dr. Cortney Nguyen, Ruskin
Dr. Mauricio Ochoa, Estero
Dr. Liliana Ortiz Valle, Tampa
Dr. Brent Parker, Fort Myers
Dr. Pratvi Patel, Fort Myers
Dr. Hector Pena Cuevas, Naples
Dr. Miguel Rodriguez Mendez, Parrish
Dr. Mariely Santos, Brooksville
Dr. Naya Sayegh, Bradenton
Dr. Morgan Schreck, South Pasadena
Dr. Elizabeth Shalaby, Cape Coral
Dr. Basma Shenoda, Cape Coral
Dr. Austin Smith, Apollo Beach
Dr. Chayanne Sookhlall, Seminole
Dr. Christian Summers, Tampa
Dr. Michel Valladares, Naples
Dr. Donald Whidden, Tampa
Dr. Laith Yousif, Naples
Dental Insurance Broker
in the Nation. Period.
The Rise of the 17th Delegation
By FDA President-elect and 17th Delegation Caucus Chair Dr. Daniel J. Gesek Jr.
Every year, the Florida Dental Association (FDA) sends a delegation to the American Dental Association (ADA) House of Delegates (HOD). This includes 46 dentists from throughout Florida.
The ADA was recently held in Washington, D.C., and this was a special year, as it may be the last year of the ADA annual meeting, SmileCon.
The HOD was particularly busy this year with more than 150 resolutions submitted to the speaker of the house, including 58 from individual members.
There have been several changes at the ADA during the last few years. This includes the loss of the executive director, the sale of the Chicago
headquarters and the Washington, D.C., building and the purchase of the Forsythe Institute. The newly developed ADA Forsythe Institute is a combined effort to raise the bar on dental research.
This year, the HOD started with reference committee hearings. It was obvious that dentists were concerned about all the changes occurring in such a short time. The testimony reflected this. There was much discussion of expenditures and the costs associated with many resolutions.
Additional items of business were the election of the president-elect, vice president and speaker of the
house. Dr. Tom Paumier from Ohio was elected as president-elect, Dr. Ben Youel from Illinois was elected as vice-president and Dr. Deborah Peters from Michigan was elected the next speaker of the house.
The main topics discussed included anesthesia, licensure, governance and anything with a budgetary impact. The first major action was to support a governance study with specific criteria. The next was to sunset a relatively new Strategic Forecasting Committee. The current anesthesia guidelines have been updated and now include all pediatric anesthesia providers. The ADA will develop its own guidelines on
Pediatric Anesthesia with input from stakeholders who perform anesthesia on pediatric patients.
The 17th was remarkably successful in their deliberations this year. Many resolutions developed or supported by the group were passed, and others were referred for further study. Most resolutions with financial impacts were defeated or referred at this time.
The last action taken at HOD was to discuss the annual dues. Sustainability was paramount in this discussion. The dues were restored to 2023 levels with a cost-of-living increase. This will allow the ADA to strengthen the programs and services it provides to its members.
In closing, let me say the 17th had a momentous year. We worked extremely hard. The outcome may have been the best yet for Florida. This group includes many members in their first or second year on the delegation. It was a true pleasure to watch all our members interact at the national level and advocate on behalf of all dentists in Florida. We should be immensely proud of the 17th delegation’s success in 2025.
Dr. Daniel J. Gesek is the FDA’s president-elect and the 17th Delegation Caucus Chair to the ADA. He can be reached at dgesek@bot.floridadental. org
Group photo provided by FDA staff; remaining photos provided by Dr. Anthony Wong
Thank you to all FDA 17th District Delegates who traveled to Washington, D.C., to ensure their voices were
heard.
Inspired to Lead: A New Delegate’s Perspective
By Dr. Shana Capra
This October, I had the honor of representing the 17th district of Florida at the American Dental Association (ADA) House of Delegates meeting in Washington, D.C. It was my first national meeting as a delegate, and the experience was nothing short of inspiring.
Until I became involved in organized dentistry, I didn’t fully understand the depth of work happening behind the scenes to protect and advance our profession. My journey began locally at the Palm Beach Dental Association, followed by serving as an Atlantic Coast Delegate at the Florida Dental Association House of Delegates meeting in Orlando earlier this year. Each step has given me a greater appreciation for the dedication, strategy and collaboration that go into every resolution and policy that shape how we practice.
I quickly realized how much we, as dentists, benefit from organized dentistry’s efforts, often without
realizing it. Many of our day-to-day freedoms, patient protections and professional rights exist because of people who volunteer their time to advocate for our collective interests. I truly encourage every dentist to get involved. If you’ve ever felt disconnected from the decision-making side of our profession, this is where your voice matters most. It’s easy to take the benefits for granted when you don’t see the long hours and thoughtful debate that shape them. We need everyone, especially newer generations of dentists, to be part of these conversations, advocating for our patients and for ourselves. After all, who understands our profession better than we do?
What stood out most to me was the environment’s warmth and support. Senior delegates and leaders took
the time to guide and encourage me and to make sure my voice was heard, particularly regarding the pediatric anesthesia guidelines, which were a hot topic at this meeting. It was empowering to collaborate on meaningful resolutions and I left D.C. feeling proud, inspired and deeply grateful to be part of something larger than my own practice. This is only my first year of a three-year term and I’m already looking forward to continuing to learn, contribute, be the voice of my constituents and advocate for the future of dentistry, our patients in Florida and beyond.
Dr. Shana Capra can be reached at drcapra@thekidsdentalpractice.com.
Group photo provided by FDA staff; remaining photos provided by Dr. Anthony Wong.
A heartfelt thank-you to our FDA 17th District Delegates for traveling to Washington, D.C., and representing our members with passion and purpose.
FLORIDA DENTAL CHATTER
This Facebook group is designed for dentists to interact with other members, receive the latest updates and information, and engage with FDA leaders and sta across the country. This is the place to be in the know!
Join u s at fa ceboo k . co m /g ro u ps/ flo r i dadenta lchat te r.
Dr. Eddy Sedeño FDA member since 2017 Miami Lakes, FL SFDDA
Dr. John Paul FDA member since 1990 Lakeland, FL WCDDA
Dr. Jenna Pascoli
A Call to Arms for Dentists:
A Wake-up Call From the
Future
In 2017, “U.S. News & World Report” ranked dentistry as the #1 “Best Job” in America. That ranking wasn’t arbitrary — it reflected dentistry’s strong salary potential, job demand and future prospects, low unemployment rate and enviable balance of stress levels with quality of life.
By James G. Wilson, DMD and Chris Bulnes, DMD
Dr. Wilson
Dr. Bulnes
In 2017, “U.S. News & World Report” ranked dentistry as the #1 “Best Job” in America. That ranking wasn’t arbitrary — it reflected dentistry’s strong salary potential, job demand and future prospects, low unemployment rate and enviable balance of stress levels with quality of life.
Since then, dentistry has only grown in popularity. Dental schools have never been more competitive to enter, attracting some of the nation’s brightest students who
dream of a career that blends science, artistry, independence and service. The profession enjoys a reputation as one of the most rewarding careers in healthcare.
Consider the numbers: In 1990, there were 5,123 applicants and 4,001 first-year enrollees, a 72.4% acceptance rate. By 2007, demand had skyrocketed, with 13,742 applicants competing for just 4,770 first-year seats, an acceptance rate of only 33.6%. Even in 2023, though applications dipped to 11,198, the expansion of dental schools still made for stiff competition. That year, 6,708 first-year students enrolled, with an acceptance rate of 58.6%. Meanwhile, the academic bar keeps rising: the average GPA of incoming dental students has climbed from 3.20 in 2000 to 3.66 in 2024.
The future of our profession depends on what we do now. Our prosperity was earned, not granted. Organized dentistry is our shield and our voice.
For decades, dentistry has been one of the most respected professions in America. The work is rewarding, the hours are reasonable, and the financial stability enviable. That reputation wasn’t an accident. It was built brick by brick by dentists who stood together, through the ADA and state dental associations, shaping laws, protecting independence, and ensuring patients had access to care.
But what happens if everything we cherish about dentistry gradually disappears? What happens when a profession lives off yesterday’s victories but forgets to protect tomorrow’s?
Why Organized Dentistry Matters
How many times have you heard a colleague say, or maybe even thought to yourself, “Why should I join the ADA? What do they really do for me?”
It’s a fair question, but here’s the truth: organized dentistry is the reason we can still ask it.
Without the ADA’s federal and state victories on insurance reform, carriers would operate with near-total impunity. Network leasing would let your patients’ plans be sold and resold without your knowledge, slashing reimbursement rates without recourse. “Non-covered services”
laws, which today prevent insurers from dictating fees on procedures they don’t even pay for, wouldn’t exist. Dentists would have no shield from balance-billing nightmares or predatory insurer practices. Antitrust exemptions for dental insurers would remain untouched, allowing companies to collude openly and drive our fees into the ground.
During the height of COVID-19, the ADA and FDA worked tirelessly to ensure dentists were classified as essential health providers. Without that advocacy, many of us could have been forced to close indefinitely while our patients’ needs went unmet.
A colleague in private practice recently battled a large insurance carrier over unfair reimbursement policies. Only with the backing of organized dentistry, armed with legal resources and lobbying power, were those policies reversed.
Years ago, a member faced legislation that would have sharply limited the procedures general dentists could perform. It was his state association, in partnership with the ADA, that stopped the bill. Without that intervention, his career would have been altered overnight.
These aren’t abstract victories, they are tangible protections for our
practices, our patients, and our livelihoods. These wins weren’t free. They were earned through decades of dues, lobbying, grassroots organizing, and countless hours of dentists volunteering. And, fact is, no individual dentist could achieve these outcomes alone.
Many see the benefits of organized dentistry’s advocacy as background noise, rights that “just exist.” They don’t realize those rights only exist because organized dentistry fought for them. Without an organized voice representing us, dentists would be voiceless in the halls of power. Legislators would only hear from insurance lobbyists, corporate chains, or well-funded activist groups. Dentistry would be regulated, funded, and legislated by everyone except dentists.
But here’s the problem: membership is shrinking and our profession is silently eroding its own future. Each year fewer dentists join organized dentistry, leaving the burden of advocacy to a smaller and smaller group. Some become disengaged, focusing only on frustrations while overlooking the victories. Others expect protection without contributing, and when organized dentistry loses a fight, or takes a stance they disagree with, they walk away entirely.
When our collective voice grows weaker, policymakers and corporations step in to fill the vacuum.
Foreshadowing from Medicine
If this sounds alarmist, just look at medicine. In the 1960s, nearly 75% of US physicians were members of the American Medical Association. Over the past several decades, the AMA saw its membership plummet. As a result, physicians lost much of their influence over healthcare policy. Today, many doctors work in environments where insurance companies, government agencies, and corporate interests dictate how medicine is practiced.
As AMA membership fell below 15%, Medicare physician payments dropped 33% (adjusted for inflation since 2001). Those numbers aren’t just statistics, they represent lost opportunities, rising burnout, overregulation, and the steady erosion of a once-independent profession. Many physicians were driven out of private practice, taking with them a profound loss of autonomy. This isn’t science fiction, it’s exactly what happens when a profession stops standing together.
Physicians are still respected, but their ability to shape their own destiny has been gutted. Dentistry is not immune. If we follow the same path, we risk losing control over our profession. Decisions about how we practice, how we are reimbursed, and how patients view our role in healthcare could soon be made for us, not with us.
A Warning from the Future
Imagine opening your practice in 2040. You’re no longer in control of your fees; insurance companies dictate them. Your autonomy in patient care is diminished; government regulations and corporate dental chains set the parameters. Patients see you not as an independent professional, but as a cog in a system that values volume over relationships.
The future of dentistry will not be decided by the loudest lobbyist in Washington or the biggest corporations. It will be decided by whether dentists themselves believe the profession is worth protecting.
A Call to Arms
The future of our profession depends on what we do now. Our prosperity was earned, not granted. Organized dentistry is our shield and our voice. Without strong membership, our ability to influence policy, protect patient relationships, and preserve professional autonomy will slip away.
Some of you may already feel disenfranchised; trapped by debt, overwhelmed by corporate pressures, or worn down by bureaucracy. But if you think it’s difficult now, imagine a future of even higher burnout, financial strain, and loss of control.
So the real question isn’t, “What does the ADA do for me?” The real question is: What happens if I don’t join?
The hard truth is that if too many dentists choose to free ride on yesterday’s victories, tomorrow’s dentists will not inherit the same profession.
This is our call to arms. Join. Renew. Most importantly, encourage your colleagues. When one of them asks, “What does the ADA do for me?”
Speak up! Remind them that organized dentistry doesn’t exist just for one of us, but for all of us. The future of your profession depends on you being an advocate for organized dentistry to those who chose to denigrate its importance to all of us.
Our profession that we worked so hard to become a part of is changing rapidly, not always for the better; but it will be exponentially worse if we lose our collective voice. By investing in organized dentistry, we preserve not only our careers, but the very identity of our profession.
The strength of dentistry tomorrow depends on the choices we make today.
Dr. James G. Wilson can be reached at jgwilson@tampaperiodontics.com and Dr. Chris Bulness can be reached at cbulnes@bot.floridadental.org
This article first appeared in the West Coast District Dental Associations (WCDDA) fall newsletter and the WCDDA granted the FDA reprint permission.
Starting Jan. 1, 2025, FDA members have free, confidential access to AllOne Health‘s counseling and work/life services.
The Florida Dental Association’s (FDA) Member Assistance Program (MAP) can help you reduce stress, improve mental health and make life easier by connecting you to the right information, resources and referrals.
All services are confidential and available to you and your household as an FDA member benefit. This includes access to short-term counseling and the wide range of services listed below:
Mental Health Sessions
Manage stress, anxiety and depression; resolve conflict, improve relationships and address personal issues. Choose from in-person sessions, video counseling or phone counseling.
Life Coaching
Reach personal and professional goals, manage life transitions, overcome obstacles, strengthen relationships and achieve greater balance.
Financial Consultation
Build financial wellness related to budgeting, buying a home, paying off debt, resolving general tax questions, preventing identity theft and saving for retirement or tuition.
Legal Referrals
Receive referrals for personal legal matters including estate planning, wills, real estate, bankruptcy, divorce, custody and more.
Work-Life Resources and Referrals
Obtain information and referrals when seeking childcare, adoption, special needs support, eldercare, housing, transportation, education and pet care.
Personal Assistant
Save time with referrals for travel and entertainment, professional services, cleaning services, home food delivery and managing everyday tasks.
Medical Advocacy
Get help navigating insurance, obtaining doctor referrals, securing medical equipment and planning for transitional care and discharge.
Member Portal
Access your benefits 24/7/365 through the member portal with online requests and chat options. Explore thousands of self-help tools and resources including articles, assessments, podcasts and resource locators.
Supporting Florida Dentists on Their Path to Wellness
By Co-Chair of the FDA Wellness Committee Sharon C. Siegel, DDS, MS, MBA
Dentists are always so diligent and dedicated, working with such passion to care for their patients’ health. But we often forget about the importance of taking care of our own physical and mental well-being. Whether that is because we don’t have time, or don’t think it is as important as our patients, or we don’t know where to get help confidentially. Now, the Florida Dental Association (FDA) is providing assistance and solutions to help the members of the dental profession in Florida.
The FDA has been working behind the scenes for about a year, focusing on providing Florida dentists cutting-edge, top-shelf and free resources to address professional
wellness. As part of this, the FDA’s Wellness Committee was implemented on Jan. 1, 2025, following significant lobbying at the state and national levels through the American Dental Association (ADA), led by FDA Past President Dr. Jeff Ottley and FDA Director of Information Services Larry Darnell. Co-chairs of the Wellness Committee, Drs. Sharon Siegel and Mina Ghorbani, along with five other dentists (See all members in the box below), who are positioned across the state, are working to share excellent wellness resources with all FDA members and all dental students. Some resources are even available to Florida dentists who are not members yet but should be encouraged to join, if only to take advantage of them.
wellness committee
FDA's Wellness Committee Members
• Gena Addison, DMD MS
• Barton R. Blumberg, DMD, PA
• Mina Ghorbanifarajzadeh, DMD co-Chair
• Paul R. Miller DDS
• Merlin P. Ohmer, DDS, MAGD
• John R. Pasqual, DMD
• Sharon C. Siegel, DDS, MS, MBA Co-Chair
The committee meets monthly to strategize getting out the message of all the well-being resources that the FDA and ADA are providing. Members attend component and national meetings and present programs to inform Florida dentists and staff about these resources to help them stay mentally healthy.
What are some of the wellness resources that the FDA is providing? The newest resource is the Membership Assistance Program (MAP), which is offered free to all FDA members. This resource provides four free, confidential sessions with a live therapist via Zoom, phone or chat for FDA members and each member of their family. All services are confidential and available to you and your household as a member benefit. The MAP resource was rolled out on January 1 of this year and will continue into 2026. The types of sessions that can be requested at no cost to the dentist include mental health support, life coaching services, work-life resources, legal referrals, financial consultation, personal assistance and medical advocacy. This resource is also available to all dental students in Florida. The QR code to access this service is provided at the end of this article. Or if preferred, you can sign up by logging into encompass.mylifeexpert.com/ with the Signup code: fdamap. Or you can contact any of the FDA Wellness Committee members.
Delving deeper into the services offered by the MAP reveals much that can assist dentists and their families with overall life wellness. The Mental Health sessions can help manage stress, anxiety and depression; resolve conflict, improve relationships and address personal issues. Members can choose from in-person sessions, video counseling or phone counseling. The Life Coaching sessions can help practitioners reach personal and professional goals, manage life transitions, overcome obstacles, strengthen relationships and achieve greater balance. The Financial Consultation sessions can build financial wellness related to budgeting, buying a home, paying off debt, resolving general tax questions, preventing identity theft and saving for retirement or tuition. The Legal Referral sessions can help with personal legal matters including estate planning, wills, real estate, bankruptcy, divorce, custody and more.
Work-Life Resources and Referrals from the MAP help obtain information and referrals when seeking childcare, adoption, special needs support, eldercare, housing, transportation, education and pet care. The Personal Assistant resource of the MAP can help save time with referrals for travel and entertainment, professional services, cleaning services, home food delivery and managing everyday tasks. And finally, the medical advocacy component of the MAP helps with navigating insurance, obtaining doctor referrals, securing medical equipment and planning for transitional care and discharge.
The MAP Member Portal provides 24/7/365 access to benefits, including online requests and chat options. Explore thousands of self-help tools and resources, including articles, assessments, podcasts and a resource locator.
Another resource available through the FDA and ADA is access to the Well-Being Index (WBI), an online, validated self-assessment tool developed by the Mayo Clinic. This tool measures six dimensions of distress and well-being in only nine questions. So, dentists can track their well-being monthly to see their risk of distress and burnout. The six dimensions that it measures are:
The FDA has been working behind the scenes for about a year, focusing on providing Florida dentists cutting-edge, top-shelf and free resources to address professional wellness.
1). Quality of life
2). Meaning in work
3). Likelihood of burnout
4). Severe fatigue
5). Work-life integration
6). Suicidal ideation
This program is completely confidential, but the Mayo Clinic does have 2024 data on various healthcare professionals who are using the WBI. The data for 2024 show that about 50% of dentists are distressed or struggling with their well-being, the second-highest after nursing. The data from 2024 also shows that 60% of dentists have felt burned out at work, the second-highest after pharmacy professionals.
Talkspace Go is another resource provided by the ADA and FDA for dental practitioners and students. This is a self-directed therapy app to help you gain confidence, connect with the important people in your life, and achieve your personal goals. There is also Talk Space Therapy, where members can secure one free, confidential counselling session. The app provides tools to manage work stress, relationships, and overall life balance in as little as five minutes a day. Users can personalized
courses around topics like work stress, financial stress, burnout, depression, conflict and relationships. Therapist-led live workshops, courses and daily journaling are provided.
Finally, the FDA provides access to the Professionals Resource Network (PRN), a nationally recognized, legislatively enacted, private, non-profit 501(c)3 organization widely cited as one of the premier programs for impaired healthcare professionals in the United States. The PRN program was originally created to serve physicians and others working in safety-sensitive positions. The primary mission of PRN is to protect the health, safety and welfare of the public while supporting the integrity of the healthcare team and other professionals.
The FDA really cares about the mental and physical wellness of its members. The FDA is leading the way in caring for its members, providing free, confidential and impactful well-being services. I am grateful to belong to such a caring organization that takes such an interest in the well-being of the dental practitioners it serves, providing high-quality resources.
Co-Chair of the FDA Wellness Committee Sharon C. Siegel, DDS, MS, MBA can be reached at scsiegel@nova.edu.
If You Struggle with Something, Tell Someone!
By ADA Wellness Ambassador Dr. Chris Kammer
Do I need to remind you how stressful and challenging our profession can be?
We have all had moments during our careers where we thought, “Wow, this is so difficult! I don’t think anyone outside my dental world has a clue about the challenges I’m dealing with!”
I’ve certainly had moments like that throughout my career. However, when I was younger, I felt like I was indestructible! I would tell myself that I can handle the stress, frustration and tears. Then came the point when I started getting migraines from the stress. One migraine every three months ultimately progressed to three migraines in a week! That wasn’t fun, but it was a wakeup call to change!
So, how are you doing? Maybe you’re not getting migraines, but is the stress of dentistry (and life, in general) getting to you? Are you less patient, quicker to anger, feeling like the joy of life is getting sucked out of you? Are you coping in harmful ways or self-medicating with pills or alcohol? Hey friends, this is real- life stuff, and historically we have tried to hide these problems, possibly due to shame or embarrassment. We want the world to think that we’ve got it all together, right?
Well, we don’t. And it’s OK to not be OK!
If you let people know that you need them, they feel valued and fulfilled by just listening to you and/or offering help.
Sometimes we hide our pain because we don’t want to bother anyone with our problems.
Help is available! You don’t have to broadcast your challenges to the world, but you sure could talk to someone privately. We had only been married one year when my wife and I sought therapy to better handle our relationship challenges. When I wanted a better relationship with my kids, I sought therapy to be a better father — and it continues to this day! When I wanted to be a better brother for the men at my church, I joined the Men’s Ministry. We gathered once a month to share challenges and celebrations. Men just don’t regularly do that! The stories were so open and honest, tears flowed and brothers surrounded each other in prayer circles. I had never experienced such power in a room! Given the chance to care, people do care about each other.
Barbra Streisand said it best in a song, “People who need people are the luckiest people in the world!” Why is that? If you let people know that you need them, they feel valued
and fulfilled by just listening to you and/or offering help. Sometimes we hide our pain because we don’t want to bother anyone with our problems. Well, that just doesn’t fly these days! It’s sort of like the safety slogan, “If you see something, say something!” but I’d pivot to this, “If you struggle with something, tell someone!”
I have been a 20+ year volunteer for the National Alliance for Mental Illness. One of their battle cries is to “Stomp out the stigma!” With that spirit in mind, I became a Wellness Ambassador for the American Dental Association (ADA). I was so excited about their mental health initiative and the many ways we can support our brothers and sisters in our profession. Resources are available at ADA.org/wellness, including the Mayo Clinic’s Wellbeing Index, which allows providers to take a one-minute, seven-question confidential self-assessment. I track it monthly! I especially like the resources listed there like “Relationship & Work-Life
Balance.” As an ADA member you also have free access to Talkspace Go, a self-guided mental health app that tailors courses, therapist-led live workshops, daily journals and more just for you. Additionally, Talkspace Therapy is available on subscription to work with a licensed therapist with live 30 minute sessions/monthly, plus unlimited asynchronized messaging. Be your own best friend and treat yourself right. If you need guidance with the resources or are interested in becoming a Wellness Ambassador for your colleagues in Florida please visit ada.org/ resources/practice/wellness/ ada-wellness-ambassadorprogram
Reprinted with permission by Dr. Kammer.
Dr. Chris Kammer is a general dentist in Madison, Wisconsin and serves as an ADA Wellness Ambassador representing Wisconsin. The Wisconsin Dental Foundation oversees wellness initiatives for the Association. Dr. Kammer can be reached at drchriskammer@gmail.com
Coverage that works as hard as
You spoke — we listened.
Now, members of the Florida Dental Association (FDA) have exclusive access to a new Short-Term Disability Insurance plan from Allstate Benefits, brought to you by FDA Services in partnership with benefit planning experts BuddyIns.
Whether you’re welcoming a new baby, recovering from surgery or facing an unexpected illness, this essential coverage helps protect your income when it matters most.
FDA Members Only
Available exclusively to FDA members working 20+ hours per week.
Pregnancy Benefits Included
Receive benefits for pregnancy-related leave — a rare and valuable feature.
Up to $5,000/Month
Monthly cash benefits via check or direct deposit to help you during recovery.
Bridges the Gap
Covers the typical 90-day waiting period before long-term disability kicks in.
Simplified Issue
You will be asked a few brief health related questions during enrollment.
Affordable & Portable
Keep your coverage even if you move or change jobs.
Financial Peace of Mind
Protect your income without needing to dip into retirement or personal savings.
LEADERS EMERGING AMONG DENTISTRY
Friday, January 16, 2026 | Orlando, FL
Leaders Emerging Among Dentistry (LEAD) is the Florida Dental Association’s (FDA) signature leadership development program. LEAD equips participants with essential leadership and interpersonal skills through comprehensive training sessions while providing a backstage pass to your FDA and leadership opportunities within the organization.
Intimate Partner Violence During the Holidays:
What Dental Professionals Should Know
By Florida Partnership to End Domestic Violence Chief Program Officer Tanesha McDonald
The holidays are often portrayed as a season of joy and togetherness. Yet for many individuals, they also bring stress, financial strain and higher risks of violence at home.
Research shows that intimate partner violence (IPV) often escalates during times of heightened family and financial pressures. Survivors may also face increased isolation and fewer opportunities to seek help.
Dental professionals are uniquely positioned to support patients during this vulnerable time. Up to 75% of physical IPV injuries occur to the head, face and neck, areas routinely examined during dental visits (Futures Without Violence, 2023). Dental settings can therefore be critical points of contact for recognition and support.
Recognizing the Signs of IPV in Dental Patients
Physical Indicators:
• Unexplained or inconsistent explanations for facial injuries.
• Bruises, lacerations or fractures in various stages of healing.
• Oral trauma, broken teeth or jaw injuries consistent with forced impact.
Behavioral Indicators:
• Patients often appear anxious, fearful or hesitant when explaining their injuries.
intimate partner violence
• A controlling partner who speaks on behalf of the patient or refuses to leave the room.
• Missed appointments or delays in seeking care for significant injuries.
How to Respond During the Holidays — and Beyond
The RADAR approach (Futures Without Violence, 2023) can guide safe, trauma-informed care:
• Routinely ask patients about safety in a private, confidential setting.
• Ask direct but non-judgmental questions, such as: “Because violence is common, I ask all my patients if they feel safe at home.”
• Document injuries and patient statements clearly and objectively.
• Assess immediate safety and readiness for referral.
• Refer to trusted resources, providing information discreetly.
Resources for Patients and Providers
If a patient discloses abuse, thank them for sharing, validate that the abuse is not their fault, and provide them with the Florida Domestic Violence Hotline: 1.800.500.1119 (available 24/7). It is also recommended that you familiarize yourself with your local certified domestic violence center (fpedv.org/get-help/), which can offer emergency shelter and additional non-residential services.
Brochure:
A
Health Guide and Support for Dental Visits
This English brochure (11” x 8.5” unfolded; 3.6” x 8.5” folded), designed for the evidence-based CUES Intervention (bit.ly/4oqVRE1), can be stocked in exam rooms and shared by oral health staff to provide trauma-informed tips, strategies and national resources on domestic violence, medical care and health centers.
To download a pdf version visit bit.ly/4qbe1v1 or to order hard copies go to bit.ly/3Ldmaio.
A Guide to Support Dental Patients Experiencing Violence and Abuse
This 8.5” x 11” fact sheet offers guidance on providing inclusive, sensitive care to survivors of IPV, human trafficking or exploitation by outlining staff roles before and during patient visits and suggesting strategies for developing partnerships with community programs to improve access to safety.
Visit bit.ly/4qdGvEn to download a PDF version.
Florida Partnership to End Domestic Violence (FPEDV) is committed to supporting you through training, resources and collaborative opportunities that strengthen your response to IPV in clinical settings. For more informaion, visit fpedv.org or contact us directly to learn how to better integrate IPV awareness into your practice.
A Call to Action
This holiday season, dental professionals can demonstrate compassion and vigilance by recognizing warning signs, creating safe spaces and connecting patients to the help they need. We also encourage you to build a relationship with your local certified domestic violence center. These centers provide extended support not only for patients, but also for dental staff who may be experiencing violence themselves. Partnering with them ensures your practice is prepared to offer trusted referrals and participate in a coordinated community response.
The Florida Partnership to End Domestic Violence’s Chief Program Officer, Tanesha McDonald, can be reached at tanesha mcdonald@fpedv.org.
FPEDV is Florida’s federally designated domestic violence coalition, dedicated to creating a future free from domestic violence through advocacy, education and support for service providers. As a statewide leader, FPEDV works to strengthen the capacity of domestic violence centers and community organizations by offering comprehensive technical assistance, training and resources. Visit fpedv.org for more information and resources.
future of dentistry
Opening Doors: The Golden Foundation’s Impact on the Future of Dentistry
By the Founder of The Golden Foundation Joshua Golden, DDS
The Golden Foundation was created with a simple but powerful belief: When you give young people access to opportunities, they can rewrite their future! For many students of color, pathways to higher education in dental, medical, engineering and entrepreneurship fields often feel out of reach. Limited resources, lack of mentorship and financial obstacles continually stand in the way. That’s where the Golden Foundation steps in.
A Program That Changes Lives
Going a step above within the Foundation, we wanted to create a new one-of-a-kind pre-dental initiative designed to provide underrepresented students with real guidance, resources and mentorship on their path to dental school. Thus, the Golden Impact Program was born to help eliminate the barriers that have prevented the growth of Black and Hispanic people in the dental profession.
Currently, African Americans represent only 3.8 % and Hispanics 5.9% of dentists nationally. For our Gold-
Golden Foundation founder Dr. Golden and his students are helping eliminate barriers in the dental profession.
en Impact inaugural cohort of 12 students, their journey began in March 2025 and will end in December 2025 with an acceptance letter into dental school. With our program, students aren’t just handed a check; they are welcomed into a network that believes in them and invests in their growth. Take, for example, one student who shared a testimonial about the relief of knowing they weren’t alone on the journey — that someone was cheering for them every step of the way. These stories aren’t rare. They’re the heartbeat of the Foundation.
Doing More with Less
What makes the work even more remarkable is that all of this is accomplished with minimal funding. There is no massive endowment or corporate budget. Every dollar is stretched, every partnership maximized, every volunteer hour treasured. The impact is living proof that transformation doesn’t always require vast sums of money — it requires vision, commitment and community.
Despite financial limitations, the Golden Foundation has been able to:
• Award scholarships that directly reduce financial barriers.
• Provide mentorship that connects students with professionals in dentistry.
• Create workshops and training opportunities that prepare students for real-world challenges.
• Build a community of support where students feel seen, valued and capable of success.
Each step has been taken with intentionality, ensuring that resources go
where they’re needed most: directly into the hands of students who are ready to change the world.
Why This Work Matters
The Golden Foundation doesn’t just
help individual students. It sparks a ripple effect. Every student who graduates and steps into their career opens doors for the next generation. Families are strengthened, commu-
FDAS HEALTH SOLUTION CENTER
The FDAS Health Solution Center is available until Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026 to help you enroll in your 2026 health plan. Visit fdaservices.com/health any time to learn more or contact us at 850.681.2996 Monday through Friday.
nities grow and industries gain fresh voices and perspectives. As one of our participants put it: “The Golden Foundation didn’t just give me financial help. They gave me belief. And that belief pushed me to keep going.”
Call to Action
The vision is clear: keep building pathways to success for students who need it most. But to continue growing this impact, support is essential. With more resources, the Foundation can expand scholarships, reach more students and multiply the stories of success that inspire us all.
You can be part of this change. Whether through donations, partnerships or volunteering, your contribution fuels real opportunities for students who are ready to join our profession. Together, we can prove that a small spark can create a great fire!
To learn more about The Golden Foundation, please explore Dr. Golden’s Instagram account @TheGoldenDentist and visit his website mygoldenfoundation.com, to gain a deeper understanding of our mission and values. Do you want to make a difference? You can make an online donation to help transform a student’s future.
future of dentistry
Bridging the Gap: Nova Southeastern University’s Commitment to Addressing Florida’s Rural Dental Needs
By Elías M. Morón, D.D.S., M.P.H., M.H.L. Richard H. Singer, D.M.D., M.S., Ph.D.
The Burden of Dental Caries
Dental caries has a significant impact on children’s overall health and wellbeing. It is associated with sleepless nights, fear/anxiety, poor school attendance and productivity, poor speech, reduced self-esteem, pain, discomfort, social isolation and poor feeding/nutrition. Despite being largely preventable, dental caries is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases among children in the United States.
The Need for Expanded Children’s Dental Services
Many rural communities in Florida face a shortage of dental professionals, limiting children’s access to essential oral health care. This shortage disproportionately impacts children in counties such as Jefferson, Lafayette,
Madison and Suwannee, where the prevalence of untreated dental caries, emergency department visits for preventable dental conditions, and missed school days due to oral pain are common.
Families in these areas often have difficulty finding local dental providers who accept Medicaid or offer affordable services. Without targeted interventions, children from these communities remain at an elevated risk for oral health complications that can affect their development and quality of life.
Legislative Support to Expand Children’s Dental Care in Florida
Recognizing this need, the State of Florida passed a legislative appropriation, signed by Governor Ron DeSantis, to fund Nova Southeastern University (NSU)’s Unmet Dental Needs initiative.
Dr. Morón
Dr. Singer
Call to Action
We invite Florida’s dental community to advocate for sustained funding and support for school-based oral health programs, ensuring that every child, regardless of zip code, has access to quality dental care.
Led by the Florida Department of Health and NSU College of Dental Medicine, this initiative is designed to:
• Deliver preventive and restorative dental care directly to children living in rural communities lacking sufficient dental services.
• Train and empower school nurses to identify oral health issues, provide oral health education, preventive care and refer children needing treatment to dental professionals.
• Enhance interprofessional education by giving dental students and residents clinical experience in rural public health dentistry.
Program Highlights
Through partnerships with local health departments and schools, NSU has developed a model that integrates dental students, postdoctoral residents and trained school nurses to provide essential dental services at no cost to patients or schools. Key components of the program include:
• Preventive and Restorative Services: NSU senior dental students, Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) residents and international dental graduate students provide oral exams, cleanings, sealants, fluoride applications, restorations and extractions. These services are delivered at Florida Department of Health dental clinics in Lafayette and Suwannee counties under faculty supervision.
• School Nurse Training: NSU equips elementary school nurses with the skills to recognize early signs of dental disease, conduct oral screenings, apply fluoride varnish, educate children on oral hygiene and re-
fer them for ongoing care. Public elementary schools across Jefferson, Lafayette, Madison and Suwannee counties participate in this program.
• Oral Hygiene Supplies and Educational Materials: The initiative provides children with oral hygiene kits containing toothbrushes, toothpaste and dental floss, along with educational materials to promote preventive care at home.
Impact and Future Directions
Since its launch, the NSU Unmet Dental Needs Program has:
• Provided preventive and restorative care to hundreds of children in rural Florida.
• Trained school nurses to integrate oral health services into routine student care.
• Created a pipeline of future dentists with hands-on experience in public health dentistry.
• Continued legislative and community support is necessary to sustain and expand the program to additional rural counties and schools.
Contact Information
For more information about the program, please contact Dr. Elias Morón at em1293@nova.edu
Acknowledgements
We would like to express our sincere gratitude to Florida House Representative Jason Shoaf, Florida Senator Corey Simon and Governor Ron DeSantis for their legislative support.
We also extend our sincere gratitude to Dr. Katherine Bridges, Executive Dental Director at the Florida Department of Health; Mr. Kerry Waldron, Health Officer/ Administrator for the Florida Department of Health in Lafayette and Suwannee Counties; Ms. Kimberly Allbritton, Administrator for the Florida Department of Health in Jefferson and Madison Counties; and their exceptional teams. Their collaborative spirit and commitment have played a pivotal role in advancing oral health for Florida’s rural communities.
Our sincere appreciation goes to Dean Steven Kaltman, Drs. Cristina Godoy, Hal Lippman, María Hernández and the College of Dental Medicine at Nova Southeastern University for their continued leadership and institutional support.
A special thank you to the dedicated staff of the Unmet Dental Needs Initiative — Dr. Susan Galvis, Ms. Eleanor Torres, Ms. Oksana Shnayder and Ms. Krystal Eischen Olsen for their professionalism, dedication and invaluable contributions to the project’s success.
We recognize the vital contribution of the nurses, staff, and educators at Jefferson County Elementary School, Lafayette County Elementary School, Madison County Elementary Schools and Suwannee County Elementary Schools. Their commitment to their students’ health has made this initiative possible.
Lastly, our deepest appreciation goes to the children and their families for their trust, participation and engagement. You are the heart of our efforts, and your involvement is key to the program’s success in improving oral health outcomes across rural Florida.
Photo:
From left to right: Krystal Eischen Olsen, Eleanor Torres, Dr. Elías Morón, Dr. Susan Galvis, Dr. Cristina Godoy and Oksana Shnayder. The team during a technical assistance and monitoring visit with school-based nurses, supporting the implementation of preventive oral health services in Florida’s rural schools.
Families in these areas often have difficulty finding local dental providers who accept Medicaid or offer affordable services. Without targeted interventions, children from these communities remain at an elevated risk for oral health complications that can affect their development and quality of life.
Closing the Dental Care Gap:
How Florida’s Free and Charitable Clinics Provide a Lifeline for Uninsured Patients and How Dentists Can play a Part
By Florida Association of Free & Charitable Clinics CEO Rebecca DeLorenzo, CAE
Across Florida, free and charitable clinics quietly fill a gap in the health care system that many people never see until they need it themselves.
These nonprofit organizations are independent, community-based and focused on one mission:
caring for Floridians who have nowhere else to turn. In 2024, they served more than 245,000 patients and provided $266 million in medical, dental, mental health, vision and pharmacy services.
Who Are the Patients?
The individuals who walk through clinic doors represent some of the most vulnerable populations in our state. Many fall into the Medicaid coverage gap, earning too much to
These nonprofit organizations are independent, community-based and focused on one mission: caring for Floridians who have nowhere else to turn.
qualify for Medicaid but far too little to afford private insurance. Others are low-wage workers in jobs that don’t come with benefits, families trying to stretch every dollar or people managing chronic conditions without regular access to care. For someone living on the margins, a free clinic is often their only lifeline.
Oral Health Needs
Dental care is one of the most significant challenges. In 2024, clinics reported more than 77,500 dental visits. It’s an impressive number, yet it falls short of meeting the need. Too many Floridians live with untreated pain or delay care until an emergency sends them to the hospital. Untreated oral health issues can lead to tooth loss, malnutrition and serious infections — problems that ripple far beyond the mouth.
The state has invested in dental expansion through the Dental and Mental Health Program Grant, allowing clinics to add equipment and capacity. Still, equipment cannot replace the expertise of licensed professionals. The ability to provide care depends on the dentists, hygienists and specialists willing to share their skills.
Why Dentists Matter
Members of the Florida Dental Association are uniquely positioned to make a tangible difference. Volunteering even a small amount of time each month at a free or charitable clinic extends care to patients who would otherwise go without. Some dentists choose to accept referrals for specialty procedures, while others provide mentorship, donate
supplies or offer lab support. Every contribution matters.
Clinics are flexible in working with volunteers to find a balance that makes sense. Whether it’s a steady commitment or an occasional slot on your calendar, your involvement directly improves patient outcomes and strengthens entire communities.
The care you provide extends far beyond the dental chair — it strengthens families and transforms communities. Even a small act of service can ripple outward, changing lives and reinforcing the communities we share.
Florida Association of Free & Charitable Clinics CEO Rebecca DeLorenzo, CAE can be reached at rebecca@fafcc.org.
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The FDA Foundation is the philanthropic and charitable organization for dentistry. Bringing together volunteer dentists, donors and community partners to serve the underserved and uninsured in Florida.
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GOVERNMENTAL AFFAIRS OFFICE
The FDA Governmental A airs O ce (GAO) Instagram account is for FDA members only and is used to promote legislative and political advocacy throughout the year. PRIVATE
IN THE KNOW WITH GAO
Webinar series for FDA members to stay informed on legislative and political issues.
The Florida Dental Association’s Governmental Affairs Office (GAO) would like to invite you to join in on our listening sessions to learn about legislative issues that may have an impact on the dental profession, political issues that could affect the dental industry, and a number of other hot topics that may be of interest to you!
The listening sessions will be scheduled for mid-afternoon, 30-minutes long and will allow you to ask questions of the speakers. These sessions are meant to give you a quick update on issues and topics during your lunch hour, without interrupting the flow of your day.
POTENTIAL GUESTS:
• Elected officials (federal, state and local)
• Candidates running for office
• State agency and department heads
• FDA Members
• National dental leaders/experts
GOVERNMENTAL AFFAIRS TEAM:
Legislative Officer jahart@floridadental.org
2025-2026
FDA President Dr. John Paul
By FDA President John Paul, DMD
Tell Us Where You Were Born, Raised and Your Family. I was born in Thomasville, Georgia, just north of the Florida Dental Association (FDA) home office. I followed my father’s employment to Lakeland at age 4, then to Atlanta at age 11, and back to Lakeland at age 15. After my educational tour of the Southeast — attending Emory and MUSC — I returned to Lakeland, found a place to practice, and have invested my efforts here ever since, except for the time I spend working to make the FDA and American Dental Association (ADA) better.
My wife, Sharon, is from Chicago, and we met on Match.com. When we met, I had a dog and she had a cat — and the dog was not thrilled when I brought Sharon home. We got engaged the day after Hurricane Charley hit and have been married for 20 years. We have two daughters: Brogan, 18, and Harper, 12.
Education, Councils, Committees, Leadership Positions and Volunteer Work
I’ve climbed every rung on the leadership ladder — local, component and state — and have nearly stood on every step. My background includes extensive experience in communications, having served on both the FDA and ADA councils, and as editor of the West Coast District Dental Association (WCDDA) and Today’s
Dr. John Paul and family enjoy a Disney Cruise. From left to right: Dr. Paul's wife Sharon, daughters Harper and Brogan and Dr. Paul.
FDA — a slow but valuable education in leadership and collaboration.
I also found a place that suits my talents at the Florida Mission of Mercy (FLA-MOM), where I work alongside two great friends managing patient routing, ensuring every patient has proper informed consent, and resolving general issues and concerns during the event.
In Polk County, I’ve been involved with Flight to Honor, a program that takes veterans to Washington, D.C., to visit their memorials, spend time with fellow veterans and be reminded that their service is deeply valued
by our nation and the people of Polk County.
What Are Your Goals for the FDA? It is important to me that the FDA be the voice of reason, compassion and common sense that everyone — dentists, patients, and legislators — turns to for all matters of oral health.
While we are doing that I want every dentist to realize the primary goal of the FDA is to help its members succeed, however they define success. We are here for you, and not just to get you to help us achieve our goals.
Presidential Favorites
• Hobbies: Making sawdust and wood shavings, petting the dog, dreaming about beating hot metal into useful shapes, applying low heat and smoke to all varieties of protein and vegetables, telling stories and solving the world’s problems over brown liquor and cigars
• Food: If I could only have 1; barbecue. In general I like any kind of food that is well prepared, particularly if it is someone’s grandma’s family recipe
• Memory: The day I got engaged, less than 24 hours post Charlie, Christmas day sleeping with my two children in my lap
• Guilty Pleasure: Peanut butter and dark chocolate, really dark chocolate +90%
• Sports Team: Any team that will consider letting me play
• Leisure Activity: Reading
• Vacation Destination: The beach
• Book: I read lots of books, the one I quote the most is the teachings of a 13th century Japanese swordmaster, Miyamoto Musashi , the Go Rin No Sho, the books I have pondered the most, recently, Joined a woodworking book not an association book, and the King James Bible 1611 version
• Flower: Sunflower
• Dessert: It should be made of chocolate and don’t put any fruit in my chocolate, or an oatmeal cookie
• Candy: Snicker bar or butter finger
• Drink: Coffee or bourbon, or coffee and bourbon
Photos:
1. The WCDDA enjoys a trip to wine country.
2. It’s a great day to be a pirate! From left to right: Drs. John Paul, Chris Bulnes, Steve Krist and Paul Miller.
3. Brogan, Harper and Dr. Paul are holiday bell ringers for the Salvation Army.
4. Dr. Paul participates in Honor Flight each year, accompanying veterans to Washington, D.C. for a day.
5. Say cheese! 1967 school photo.
6. Dr. and Sharon Paul at a wedding for one of Dr. Liddell’s sons (with Dr. Paul Palo in the background).
7. Time for a photo op at a WCDDA event.
8. Dr. Paul practicing one of his favorite hobbies at Streamsong resort.
9. Dr. Paul and Bello Nock pose for a quick photo.
10. What a cute look, Angus!
11. What a wonderful Christmas gift Dr. Paul made for Sharon.
12. A family outing to swim with the dolphins.
13. Dr. Paul is blocking a hatch on the USS Bowfin submarine in Pearl Harbor.
By FDA Staff
The Florida Dentist's Guide to Peer Review
The Peer Review program is designed to help Florida Dental Association (FDA) member dentists avoid costly legal fees, malpractice suits and Board of Dentistry (BOD) complaints.
Designed to assist members with resolution of patient disputes before they become lawsuits or complaints to the Florida BOD, the FDA’s Peer Review program is an incredible member benefit that’s both free and confidential. The process can be initiated by a patient or an FDA member dentist.
FDA’s peer review coordinator, Lywanda Tucker, works with both the patient and the dentist to negotiate a compromise when there are differences in opinion about the care provided. If she is unable to successfully find a compromise, the case will be referred to the appropriate component peer review chair (a volunteer dentist) for additional mediation or a formal review.
The peer review process is not designed to handle every type of situation or problem that may arise between dentists and patients. Only cases involving problems with actual dental treatment and procedures are eligible. Cases not qualified for peer review include: those already
in malpractice litigation; those already being investigated by the BOD; disputes that are only about dental fees; treatment that occurred more than 12 months before the patient’s last appointment; and cases involving nonmember dentists. The current peer review system is also not intended to handle a complaint initiated by one dentist against another.
Why Start with Mediation?
Mediation is the first — and often most crucial — step in the peer review process. During mediation, the parties involved, with the assistance of mediator Ms. Tucker, identify key issues, explore possible solutions and work toward a mutually satisfactory resolution. When mediation is successful, the case concludes at this stage and does not need to advance to a formal peer review.
The mediator’s role is to guide both parties through the issues and help generate practical solutions. Ms. Tucker begins by gathering background information and allowing each participant to explain the situation in his or her own words. In many cases, patients simply want the opportunity to be heard. Even when accounts differ, it’s not always necessary to resolve every detail — the focus remains on understanding what each side needs and finding a workable resolution.
FDA's Peer Review Program:
g Maintains high dental standards.
g Aids in mediation efforts.
g Meets the needs of the public regarding the quality and appropriateness of dental care.
g Assists parties in avoiding litigation.
With more than 20 years of experience in the dental field — including roles in periodontal, general and orthodontic practices — Ms. Tucker brings valuable insight to her work. She has served as a chairside assistant, treatment coordinator and front office staff member. This broad background allows her to mediate effectively as an impartial yet knowledgeable third party.
By establishing communication, building trust and promoting understanding, Ms. Tucker helps resolve many disputes quickly and fairly. Mediation often leads to resolution within the peer review system and remains one of the most effective tools for addressing dental concerns.
Resolve Patient Disputes with the FDA’s Free, Confidential Peer Review Program
In this section, you will find the top two issues Lywanda continues to encounter each year when she takes patient complaints, testimonials and statistics on the FDA's Peer Review Program. The biggest thing to remember is that peer review is a good thing! It does not affect your license or your FDA membership. So, let Lywanda save you and your staff valuable time and refer those patients who have complained against you to the FDA's Peer Review Program. To file a complaint, patients need to call the FDA's main line at 850.681.3629 and ask for Lywanda and she will handle it from there!
g The First Issue: Communication. Dental offices are often busy and need more time to thoroughly explain findings, procedures, risks or patient roles in their outcomes. Therefore, once there's an issue, the patients can lose trust in the dentist and ultimately file a complaint.
g The Second Issue: Understanding. When patients and dentists don't have a direct conversation to address concerns, patients may feel unheard of if they are left to work solely with the office staff. When the dentist allows time for a productive discussion, this can help ease tension and prevent complaints.
peer review
Testimonials
As a practicing dentist for more than 15 years and the owner of a small group of dental practices, I can confidently say that one of the first recommendations I make to every new associate who joins our team is to become a member of the Florida Dental Association (FDA).
In the past 15 years, both my associates and I have participated in peer review processes. In each instance, the program provided an invaluable safeguard against patient complaints that, while minor, had the potential to escalate into formal board investigations — situations that could have caused unnecessary stress and reputational harm.
Some examples include:
g A patient dissatisfied with an immediate denture after several months of use,
g A porcelain fracture during the sectioning of a bridge, even after the complication had been fully disclosed, and
g A patient unhappy with an implant crown that had been redone multiple times by various dentists prior to seeing us.
In every case, the peer review dentist quickly and objectively identified that no wrongdoing had occurred and offered constructive recommendations for resolution.
This service, in my opinion, is every bit as essential to a dentist’s peace of mind as malpractice insurance. The FDA’s peer review process not only upholds professional standards but also protects ethical practitioners from unwarranted claims. I strongly encourage every Florida dentist to join the FDA and take advantage of this invaluable resource.
“I am extremely grateful for the assistance the FDA provided. They were very kind, prompt and professional with my situation!”
Board of Dentistry Discipline Enforcement Process
(This is the process Peer Review seeks to avoid.)
board of dentistry
Board of Dentistry board of dentistry
A Quick Guide to the MQA Disciplinary Process Probable Cause Panels
The division of Medical Quality Assurance’s (MQA) Bureau of Enforcement fields and investigates complaints against health care practitioners and facilities/establishments regulated by the Florida Department of Health.
The path of a complaint:
• Consumer Services Unit (CSU): Where the complaint process begins.
• Investigative Services Unit (ISU). Legally sufficient complaints are forwarded here.
• Prosecution Services Unit (PSU). Conducts legal review of ISU-generated investigative reports.
• Probable Cause Panel. Determines what becomes of the case.
Cases are ultimately decided by a Probable Cause Panel (PCP). It is not bound to go along with the recommendation PSU attorneys give upon legal review. *456.073(2) & 456.073(4), Florida Statutes
A Probable Cause Panel…
• reviews all evidence and information gathered during the investigation.
• is made up of 2 or 3 board members – usually 1 or 2 licensed health care professionals and a consumer member. (*A consumer member represents the public interest. He or she does not necessarily have specialized medical knowledge/training and does not practice medicine.)
• can feature different members from meeting to meeting.
The PCP will issue one of the following recommendations: (1) Escalation to the Formal Administrative Complaint phase. (2) Closure, with a letter of guidance (3) Dismissal.
FAST FACTS
Florida Statutes outline the parameters by which probable cause panels operate, especially its strict disclosure policy. (Example: The only time a case will be made public is if an administrative complaint is approved by the PCP – 10 days after such a finding.) *456.073(10)
1
True or False?: The person(s) whose complaint initiated an investigation of a health care professional is given unlimited access to the PCP and its conducting of official business.
Answer: False. Even the complainant in the case is not privy to what happens at PCP meetings. Furthermore, he or she cannot sit in on PCP discussions, receive transcripts of the proceedingsor obtain copies of the case evidence presented. *456.073(9)(a),(b), and (c)
2
True or False?: The licensee whom the complaint was filed against has the overriding expectation of confidentiality.
Answer: True. If a case is closed without an administrative complaint being issued – either with a letter of guidance or a regular dismissal ‒ no one gets to know anything about it, including who was on the PCP or what the alleged violation was. That is, unless, the licensee waives his/her right, in writing, to keep everything confidential. *456.073(10)
1
Board of Dentistry board of
A Quick Guide to the MQA Disciplinary Process
Discretionary Emergency Orders – 3 Things to Know
The Emergency Action process is applicable to any licensed Florida health care professional who poses an immediate, serious danger to the public health, safety or welfare.
*456.073(8); 120.60(6), Florida Statutes
What that means:
• Immediacy is necessary. If an incident occurred too long ago to be considered immediate anymore, it will not qualify for Emergency Action. (Determination of “too long ago” is made on a case-by-case basis.)
• The allegation(s) need to rise to a sufficient level of seriousness to warrant the emergency order.
Emergency Restriction Orders (EROs) and Emergency Suspension Orders (ESOs) are exclusively issued by the State Surgeon General. As with Probable Cause Panels, the Surgeon General can either accept or disregard the preceding investigation-based recommendation made by Prosecution Services Unit attorneys.
2
In addition to immediacy, the DOH is only permitted to use the “least restrictive means” to stop the danger. *120.60(6)(b)
What that means:
The Emergency Action must be in line with what danger is posed to the public – whether it be just a portion, or, the public as a whole. (Example: If a male licensee accused of sexual misconduct against females will only be restricted to not treating females.)
The distinction between orders:
• ESOs – For licensees deemed to be a threat to the public at large
• EROs – For licensees considered a threat to a segment of the population
The Emergency Order process is carried out without a hearing. Restricting someone’s right to work without the benefit of a hearing, the balancing act dictated by appellate law calls for it be done by the least restrictive means.
3
An ESO or ERO is not considered final agency action.
What that means:
• Orders can be appealed within 30 days of issuance. The appeal can play out while the normal disciplinary process – toward administrative complaint and regular prosecution – runs its course. *120.60(6)(c)
• The accused health care practitioner is entitled to a hearing before final action is taken by a regulatory board or by the Department of Health. He or she can request an expedited full evidentiary hearing, which requires the presentation of evidence that is admissible in court and witnesses to testify to prove the alleged violation.
• Complaints have to be filed within 20 days of an ERO/ESO – *Rule 28-106.501(3), Florida Administrative Code.
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Why Some Dental Teams Thrive While Others Burn Out — And What Energy Has to Do With It
By Erin King, Creator of The Energy Exam®
Several years ago, I visited a dental practice that, from the outside, looked like a picture of success. A full patient roster. A strong reputation. A talented, seasoned staff.
But behind the scenes, the energy was flat. Staff turnover was rising. Minor miscommunications were turning into big frustrations. People weren’t just tired, they were drained.
At first glance, it was tempting to chalk it up to workload or staffing
shortages. But after spending time with the team, I realized the problem wasn’t how much they were working. It was how they were working together.
Each person had a different way they naturally operated — their own rhythm, pace and stress triggers. The lead hygienist thrived in meticulous, structured workflows. The office manager excelled in fast-moving problem-solving. The dentist valued deep, collaborative discussion. None of these styles was “wrong” — but when they collided without awareness, the result was constant friction.
That’s what I call the friction tax: the unseen cost of energetic misalignment in a team. It shows up as irritability, disengagement and even burnout. And it’s often overlooked because it’s not measured on a spreadsheet or practice dashboard.
In my research with more than 10,000 professionals, I’ve found that there are five distinct “energy instincts” — Kinetic, Generative, Rigorous, Responsive and Synergistic — each with a unique way of approaching challenges, communicating and recharging.
When teams understand these instincts, their own and each other’s, they can make small but powerful adjustments: pairing complementary instincts on specific projects, scheduling tasks during each person’s natural high-energy times, or shifting communication styles to fit the receiver.
In that practice I visited, we began by mapping each team member’s instinct and identifying the biggest energy drains. Within weeks, the tension eased. Staff meetings got shorter and more productive. Patients noticed the difference in the atmosphere. And most importantly, the team’s energy felt sustainable again.
Dentistry is demanding — clinically, operationally and emotionally. Protecting your team’s energy is not a “soft skill”; it’s a strategic advantage. So the next time you sense burnout creeping in, don’t just ask who is working hard. Ask how their energy is flowing and how you, as a leader, can help it align.
Ms. King will be presenting the keynote session, “The Energy Instinct: Tap into Your Natural Power for Transformative Leadership Keynote,” on Friday, June 26, at the 2026 Florida Dental Convention (FDC2026). This keynote session is free for all FDC2026 attendees. Learn more about this course and register beginning March 1 at floridadentalconvention.com. Each person had a different way they naturally operated — their own rhythm, pace and stress triggers.
Because when energy works with you instead of against you, that’s when your team and your practice truly thrive.
Ms. Erin King is a two-time bestselling author and was named to SUCCESS Magazine’s “Top 10 Must-See Motivational Speakers of 2024” list. She has been featured in “Forbes” and “Psychology Today,” among other global publications, and her podcast, “On Our Terms,” consistently ranks in the top 1% of all downloads on iTunes. King is the creator of the Energy Exam®, which shows you how to harness your natural power source for peak performance, both offline and online, all the time. Ms. King can be reached at ashley@erinking.com.
All health care practitioners, including dentists and hygienists, will be required to have a background screening and fingerprinting in order to renew their licenses before February 28, 2026
Florida Dental License Renewal: As required by the Florida Legislature, all Florida-licensed dentists and dental hygienists must complete a Level 2 background screening every five years. This includes electronic fingerprinting through a stateapproved provider.
For full details and helpful links, visit floridadental.org/fingerprinting
• Only approved vendors/providers
• Concealed weapon permits do not apply
• Required for 2026 and every other biennium
• Recommended that all complete in advance scan for more information!
The Intersection of Medicine and Dentistry
Perspectives on the Dental Profession and Interprofessional Practice
By David E. Klingman DMD
Dental professionals are uniquely positioned to serve as members of interprofessional health care teams.
I know this through experiences that have included hospital-based and outpatient residency programs, as well as a residency in oral pathology with additional focuses in oral medicine, laboratory practice and systemic
health. It’s through these experiences that I’ve approached practice and the education of members of the healthcare profession.
With that, let’s explore the intersection of oral and systemic health through the lenses of oral pathology, oral medicine and oral radiology; these are the lenses through which
I clarify our roles less as dental professionals but rather as head and neck specialists (similar to otolaryngologists), subspecialists in gastroenterology (because the GI tract begins in the oral cavity), oral dermatologists and rheumatologists (because many of the oral mucosal diseases manifest as components of immune related dermatologic disease) and
radiologists (few professions review as many X-rays as dentists).
The Lens of Oral Pathology
In addition to microscope work, oral pathologists devote much of their time to engaging physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, nurses, dentists, dental hygienists and other members of the health care profession. Because we’re often embedded in the medical laboratory profession, we’re able to help health providers by (1) providing answers to clinical questions in the form of a diagnosis, (2) helping to clarify pathologic and laboratory data, (3) engaging institutional tumor boards when a cancer diagnosis is rendered, and (4) provide expertise in surgical management to facilitate reconstruction and improve patient outcome and quality of life.
The Lens of Oral Medicine
Because the gastrointestinal tract extends from the oral cavity (everything we digest enters from that end) and the oral cavity is directly connected to the external environment (from the oral mucosa to the lip to the skin), it typically doesn’t surprise the people I engage (including both healthcare professionals and patients) that the oral cavity manifests signs and symptoms of systemic disease and that management of oral mucosal disease is aligned with management of gastrointestinal, dermatologic and rheumatologic/immune-related systemic disease (such as oral manifestations of Crohn’s Disease, oral and systemic lichen planus and systemic lupus erythematosus). There’s an art to consultation and referral, to be sure; however, those connections are easy to make once a
common language that both medicine and dentistry can understand is learned.
The Lens of Oral Radiology
As I mentioned, members of the dental profession view many X-rays. Oral pathologists and oral radiologists view even more. Consider the term biopsy (which often generates anxiety among healthcare professionals and patients). Now consider the term as simply ‘evaluation of tissue for the purpose of evaluating a state of health or disease’ and then consider what may constitute a biopsy:
• Soft tissues (what’s routinely thought of, particularly in dentistry)
• Fluid (be it blood, urine or other fluid)
• Bone and hard tissue (this is what a review of X-rays provides)
Once we process that (and communicate with patients), we provide ourselves opportunities to answer questions about parts of the body we’re otherwise unable to see and to reduce anxiety about a term that doesn’t necessarily translate to a malignant (cancer) diagnosis.
Assembling these perspectives into a coherent pattern has been my goal in both practice and education; I’ve experienced this through the following:
• Recognition of an abnormality
• Describing and documenting a differential or definitive diagnosis
• Developing a management plan
• Engaging other members of the health care professions
In practice and teaching, I consistently follow this ‘coherence pattern’ with two questions:
1. What is it that a patient will have as a goal when seeing a healthcare provider
2. What do other healthcare providers (and audiences) need to know that will be relevant to their practice and retainable so they can recall immediately?
Let’s follow this ‘coherence pattern’ through three case examples (these are the types of cases I focus on my previous and current teaching experiences).
Case 1: Oral Aphthous Ulcers
A 19-year-old patient presents to the dental practice for a routine dental visit and cleaning, complaining of ‘mouth sores.’ The hygienist notes several well-defined ulcers. The hygienist and dentist review the patient’s health history and note a patient comment about digestive concerns. A referral is then made to the physician, who then engages gastroenterology, and a diagnosis of Crohn’s Disease (inflammatory bowel disease) is rendered. The patient begins a course of immunosuppressants and dietary changes, leading to improvement of both the oral ulcers and GI disease.
Case 2: Oropharyngeal Cancer
A 38-year-old patient with a history of obstructive sleep apnea visits the dental office with a complaint of recent difficulty swallowing. An airway evaluation reveals significant enlargement of the right tonsil. The patient is referred to an oral surgeon
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and then to otolaryngology (ENT); the ENT specialist performs a camera scope of the upper airway, schedules a biopsy and a diagnosis of HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer is made. CT and PET scans demonstrate a mass in the right tonsil, without evidence of lymph node or distant metastasis. The patient undergoes tonsillectomy and neck dissection, focused radiation, and retains acceptable salivary, swallowing, taste and speaking function.
Case 3: Ameloblastoma
A 51-year-old patient with a history of thyroid cancer (cured with total thyroid removal and thyroid hormone supplementation) and type 2 diabetes (managed with weight loss, oral medications, continuous glucose monitoring and most recent HbA1c values of 6.2 and 5.9) presents with a complaint of fullness to the right lower jaw. Visible enlargement of the right mandible is identified. A panoramic radiograph and subsequent cone beam CT reveal expansion and thinning of the cortex from #19 to #21. The patient is referred to an oral surgeon. The patient provides informed consent for biopsy and removal of the mass and is treated
in the operating room; a diagnosis of ameloblastoma is rendered by an oral pathologist on staff at the hospital through ‘frozen section’ (intraoperative) procedure, and the surgeon is able to remove the entire mass and place a reconstructive plate and graft material as preparation for future implant-supported prosthesis. Despite loss of sensation on the right side, the patient goes on to function well.
The cases highlighted drive the educational practice for both the speaker (in this case, me) and the audience (in this case, you). This is how I develop topics with names like those I’ll engage audiences with, including Oral Mucosal Disease (focusing on management), Oral Cancer (focusing on tumor board protocols and treatment outcomes) and Radiographic Pathology (focusing on interpreting 2D and 3D images).
What excites me about these approaches is being able to enhance clinical practice and expand the knowledge and skill sets of oral health care professionals as we continue to develop our practices into rural and underserved areas,
treat patients of increasing age and those with increasingly complex health conditions, and engage other healthcare professionals, electronic health records and laboratory and pharmacy data that are becoming increasingly relevant to improving our patients’ health. I look forward to seeing you and engaging!
Dr. David Klingman is presenting the courses “Oral Mucosal Disease and Oncology: Diagnosis, Management and Interprofessional Care” and “Radiographic Pathology: Interpreting Images in 2D and 3D” on Thursday, June 25 at the Florida Dental Convention in Orlando, FL. Learn more and register beginning on March 1 at floridadentalconvention.com.
Dr. David Klingman is a graduate of UMDNJ-New Jersey Dental School, now Rutgers School of Dental Medicine. He has completed postgraduate training in hospital-based dental practice, outpatient comprehensive dentistry, and oral and maxillofacial pathology. He has served as an institutional consultant for oral and maxillofacial pathology and has over 30 years experience in health care education and can be reached at ddmd95@gmail. com
FLORIDA DENTAL CONVENTION
EXHIBIT HALL
JUNE 25-27, 2026 – GAYLORD PALMS RESORT - ORLANDO
Visiting the FDC Exhibit Hall is an invaluable opportunity for you to experience a comprehensive showcase of the latest advancements in the dental field, from cutting-edge technology to innovative treatment options. Stay up-to-date on industry trends, expand your skills, and discover products and services that can enhance patient care and the overall dental practice experience all under one roof at FDC2026. Support the companies that support the Florida Dental Convention!
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Young Mom Gets Second Chance at Life Through Donated Dental Services
By Dental Lifeline Network
Taylor and Dr. Williams
I have to be here for my boys. For Taylor, a Polk County resident and new mother of twins, this wasn’t just a simple statement — it was her reason for living. At just 29 years old, Taylor was in the fight of her life as she battled Hodgkin’s Lymphoma and underwent extensive chemotherapy. As she prepared for a lifesaving stem cell transplant, a devastating and unexpected obstacle appeared. The last thing standing between her and a future with her boys wasn’t just the cancer itself but the required dental clearance she needed to have the transplant.
For the past year, Taylor had been fighting to survive her cancer treat-
ments while still working full-time at a local college to provide a home for her twin boys. Beginning her transplant meant she would be unable to work and would lose her income, as her company’s policy made her ineligible for short-term disability. The mounting medical bills and the cost of raising twins made the necessary dental care a financial impossibility. With a lifesaving transplant on the line, time was running out. It was May 22, and she had only until June 10 to get the dental work needed for the procedure to go forward. Their family was in despair, wondering if the required help would ever come in time.
The Power of Volunteering
Thankfully, Taylor was referred to Dental Lifeline Network • Florida’s Donated Dental Services (DDS) program by the Moffitt Cancer Center. DLN prioritized Taylor and found a compassionate team of DDS program volunteers to quickly step in and help. She was matched with a volunteer oral surgeon who performed five extractions, a volunteer endodontist who performed two root canals, and a volunteer dentist, Dr. Trevor
Williams, who performed six restorations and donated four crown and bridge units thanks to the generosity of Glidewell, a volunteer lab.
What was once an impossible timeline of treatment was made possible when these incredible DDS volunteers came together and helped give this young mom a fighting chance at life. All necessary dental care was completed in time for Taylor to get her lifesaving stem cell transplant on July 3, and she rang the bell to signify the completion of her major cancer treatments just two weeks later.
“Everything was a whirlwind once I got clearance and treatment got started ASAP. It all worked out and I’m so beyond thankful for everyone’s dedication and compassion to make this happen,” said Taylor. “You all truly helped save my life, and I’ll be forever grateful.”
The Importance of Donated Dental Care
Taylor’s story truly exemplifies the importance of donated dental care and the necessity of volunteers in
dental lifeline
oral healthcare who give their time and talents to help others. As a DDS volunteer, you can give someone like Taylor a second chance at life, right from your own office. Whether you are a dental professional or a lab, volunteering with Dental Lifeline Network • Florida’s DDS program allows you to become a beacon of hope and give back to those in need.
“Volunteering for the DDS program is a great way to give back to the community and help those who really need it,” said DDS volunteer Dr. Williams. “As a ‘newish’ father, knowing what Taylor was fighting for made this case
particularly impactful – and the more dentists that are willing to serve, the more people like Taylor that we can help.”
DDS volunteers in Florida have given more than $12 million in donated services, transforming the lives of more than 2,280 people. You can volunteer with DLN • FL and help reach even more individuals in desperate need of treatment.
Take advantage of this opportunity to connect and engage with DDS volunteers in the DLN • Florida Volunteers Facebook Group. See you there!
fda district dental associations
Your Dental Community Starts Here
Are you looking for colleagues and some of the best friends you will ever make? District dental associations offer you the chance to share meals, opinions, advice, support, continuing education and family events!
Atlantic Coast District Dental Association (ACDDA)
Dr. Victor Dea, President
Kathy Corrado, Executive Director • k.corrado@acdda.org
10380 SW Village Center, #408 • Port St. Lucie, FL 34987
Collier County Dental Association, Greater Highlands County Dental Association, Hernando County Dental Association, Hillsborough County Dental Association, Lee County Dental Society, Manatee Dental Society, Pinellas County Dental Association, Polk County Dental Association, Sarasota County Dental Association, Upper Pinellas County Dental Association, West Pasco Dental Association
fda district dental associations
WELCOME!
ATLANTIC COAST DISTRICT DENTAL ASSOCIATION
When you join organized dentistry, you’re automatically part of all three levels:
Atlantic Coast District Dental Association (ACDDA)
Your local district provides excellent events that offer opportunities for continuing education and networking. In addition to the ACDDA’s Annual Conference, there are local meetings—three of which are included in your membership dues! The district also offers member-only special events, social media platforms and publications.
Florida Dental Association (FDA)
The FDA offers benefits like Peer Review, practice support, assistance with third-party payers, timely newsletters and publications, crisis management assistance and more. Members receive free preregistration, discounted course pricing and up to 20 FREE CE course options at the annual Florida Dental Convention in June. The FDA also serves as the voice of oral health to members of the Florida legislature, the media and the general public.
American Dental Association (ADA)
The ADA protects the profession through federal advocacy efforts, offers a member app and builds public knowledge and acceptance of dentistry using the ADA Seal of Acceptance and research from the ADA Forsyth Institute.
When you join organized dentistry, you’re automatically part of all three levels:
Central Florida District Dental Association (CFDDA)
Your local district provides excellent events that offer opportunities for continuing education (CE) and networking. The CFDDA’s Annual Meeting offers CE (8-12 CE units) at no cost to CFDDA and their dental teams. The district also offers member-only special events, social media platforms and publications.
Florida Dental Association (FDA)
The FDA offers benefits like Peer Review, practice support, assistance with third-party payers, timely newsletters and publications, crisis management assistance and more. Members receive free pre-registration, discounted course pricing and up to 20 FREE CE course options at the annual Florida Dental Convention in June. The FDA also serves as the voice of oral health to members of the Florida legislature, the media and the general public.
American Dental Association (ADA)
The ADA protects the profession through federal advocacy efforts, offers a member app and builds public knowledge and acceptance of dentistry using the ADA Seal of Acceptance and research from the ADA Forsyth Institute.
NORTHEAST DISTRICT DENTAL ASSOCIATION WELCOME!
When you join organized dentistry, you’re automatically part of all three levels:
Northeast District Dental Association (NEDDA)
Your local district provides excellent events that offer opportunities for continuing education and networking. Check out nedda.org/events for upcoming happenings in your friendly district.
Florida Dental Association (FDA)
The FDA offers benefits like Peer Review, practice support, assistance with third-party payers, timely newsletters and publications, crisis management assistance and more. Members receive free pre-registration, discounted course pricing and up to 20 FREE CE course options at the annual Florida Dental Convention in June. The FDA also serves as the voice of oral health to members of the Florida legislature, the media and the general public.
American Dental Association (ADA)
The ADA protects the profession through federal advocacy efforts, offers a member app and builds public knowledge and acceptance of dentistry using the ADA Seal of Acceptance and research from the ADA Forsyth Institute.
When you join organized dentistry, you’re automatically part of all three levels:
Northwest District Dental Association (NWDDA)
Your local district provides excellent events that offer opportunities for continuing education and networking. Members can earn up to 15 hours of continuing education at the NWDDA’s Annual Meeting at a reduced rate. The district also offers member-only special events and publications.
Florida Dental Association (FDA)
The FDA offers benefits like Peer Review, practice support, assistance with third-party payers, timely newsletters and publications, crisis management assistance and more. Members receive free pre-registration, discounted course pricing and up to 20 FREE CE course options at the annual Florida Dental Convention in June. The FDA also serves as the voice of oral health to members of the Florida legislature, the media and the general public.
American Dental Association (ADA)
The ADA protects the profession through federal advocacy efforts, offers a member app and builds public knowledge and acceptance of dentistry using the ADA Seal of Acceptance and research from the ADA Forsyth Institute.
fda district dental associations
SOUTH FLORIDA DISTRICT DENTAL ASSOCIATION WELCOME!
When you join organized dentistry, you’re automatically part of all three levels:
South Florida District Dental Association (SFDDA)
Your local district provides excellent events that offer opportunities for continuing education (CE) and networking. Affiliate CE dinner meetings throughout the year are included in SFDDA membership and CE courses are designed to fulfill licensure requirements. The district also offers member-only special events, social media platforms and publications. Check out the popular “Ain’t That the Tooth” podcast at sfdda.org.
Florida Dental Association (FDA)
The FDA offers benefits like Peer Review, practice support, assistance with third-party payers, timely newsletters and publications, crisis management assistance and more. Members receive free pre-registration, discounted course pricing and up to 20 FREE CE course options at the annual Florida Dental Convention in June. The FDA also serves as the voice of oral health to members of the Florida legislature, the media and the general public.
American Dental Association (ADA)
The ADA protects the profession through federal advocacy efforts, offers a member app and builds public knowledge and acceptance of dentistry using the ADA Seal of Acceptance and research from the ADA Forsyth Institute.
WELCOME!
WEST COAST DISTRICT DENTAL ASSOCIATION
When you join organized dentistry, you’re automatically part of all three levels:
West Coast District Dental Association (WCDDA)
Your local district provides excellent events with continuing education (CE) and networking. In addition to the WCDDA’s Annual Summer Meeting, members and their loved ones can embark on memorable getaways by joining destination trips for quality time, CE and bonding outside of the office. There are also opportunities for volunteer leadership that make an impact and allow for an active role in shaping the future of organized dentistry.
Florida Dental Association (FDA)
The FDA offers benefits like Peer Review, practice support, assistance with third-party payers, timely newsletters and publications, crisis management assistance and more. Members receive free pre-registration, discounted course pricing and up to 20 FREE CE course options at the annual Florida Dental Convention in June. The FDA also serves as the voice of oral health to members of the Florida legislature, the media and the general public.
American Dental Association (ADA)
The ADA protects the profession through federal advocacy efforts, offers a member app and builds public knowledge and acceptance of dentistry using the ADA Seal of Acceptance and research from the ADA Forsyth Institute.
Diagnostic Quiz
By Drs. Hisham Alshuaibi, Nadim M. Islam and Neel Bhattacharyya
A 2-year-10-month-old otherwise healthy female was referred for evaluation following left facial swelling, which had been treated with antibiotics at an urgent care clinic. She was referred to Dr. Sean McDonnell, a pediatric dentist in Port Orange. At presentation, the swelling had resolved. Clinical examination revealed a dysmorphic, hypoplastic tooth #I with no evidence of caries, while tooth #J had not yet erupted.
At the three-month follow-up, #I and the newly erupted #J appeared hypoplastic with gingival erythema and swelling (Fig. 1). The patient reported pain during brushing and was non-compliant for taking good radiographs. Five months later, #J showed incipient decay, and fluoride varnish was applied. In the next three months, #J had decayed significantly, and gingival swelling was noted around the tooth. Subsequently, #J was extracted under sedation. #I also appeared hypoplastic and poorly formed. Two months later, an abscess was noted around #I, with the periapical radiograph demonstrating thin, underdeveloped root walls and a small pulp chamber (Fig. 2). A test for hypophosphatasia was performed, but was negative. This resulted in #I being extracted as well. Approximately a year later, a panoramic radiograph demonstrated marked underdevelopment of teeth #12, #13, #14 and #15. (Fig. 3)
Question:
Based on the given history, clinical and radiographic images, what is the most likely diagnosis?
A). Dentin Dysplasia
B). Dentinogenesis Imperfecta
C). Amelogenesis Imperfecta
D). Turner’s Hypoplasia
E). Regional Odontodysplasia
1. Clinical presentation showing hypoplastic and dysmorphic primary maxillary left molar with mild gingival erythema and swelling.
Fig. 2. Periapical radiograph of #I demonstrating thin, underdeveloped root walls and large pulp chamber.
3. A panoramic radiograph showing marked underdevelopment of developing permanent teeth #12, #13, #14 and #15. t
Fig.
Fig.
diagnostic discussion
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A. Dentin Dysplasia
Incorrect. Dentin dysplasia is a rare hereditary dentin defect that affects both the primary and permanent dentitions throughout the dentition and is not limited to a few teeth or to a single quadrant, as in the case presented here. Clinically, the crowns often appear normal, but radiographs reveal short, blunted roots and obliterated pulp chambers. In contrast, the current case demonstrates hypoplastic, dysmorphic crowns with thin enamel and dentin, large pulp chambers and significant root damage. Dentinogenesis imperfecta is often included in the differential diagnosis.
B. Dentinogenesis Imperfecta
Incorrect. Dentinogenesis imperfecta (DI) is an inherited dentin disorder with many forms of presentation and may be associated with osteogenesis imperfecta. It is inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern. Most cases are linked to the DSPP (Dentin sialophosphoprotein) gene, which controls normal dentin formation. Clinically, teeth exhibit an opalescent or translucent hue and are prone to rapid wear. Radiographically, crowns are bulbous with cervical constriction and obliterated pulp chambers. Unlike this case, DI affects all teeth symmetrically and does not present with localized involvement or “ghost-like” teeth. In addition, radiographic examination reveals “thistle tube” shaped teeth, which was not the case here.
C. Amelogenesis Imperfecta
Incorrect. Amelogenesis imperfecta encompasses a group of hereditary enamel defects affecting both dentitions. Multiple inheritance patterns are seen with mutations possible in more than one gene. Teeth display generalized enamel hypoplasia, hypocalcification
or hypomaturation, depending on the subtype. Radiographically, a “crown prep”— like appearance is noted in some cases due to early enamel loss. The condition is typically diffuse, not confined to a few teeth or a single quadrant. Dentin and pulp morphology generally remain normal. Structural defects in teeth are noted.
D. Turner’s Hypoplasia
Incorrect. Also known as Turner’s tooth, it is a form of localized enamel hypoplasia that typically affects a single permanent tooth following trauma or infection of its primary predecessor. Damage to the developing permanent tooth due to infection of the overlying deciduous tooth or trauma to the overlying tooth usually results in this defect. The most commonly affected teeth are the maxillary anterior teeth (due to trauma to the overlying primary) or premolars due to decay on the overlying primary. Usually, only the tooth is affected, and the damage may range from simple discoloration or enamel malformation to partial enamel loss or a combination of the above. Multiple teeth are not affected, as seen here.
E. Regional Odontodysplasia
Correct. Regional odontodysplasia is a rare non-hereditary developmental dental anomaly that most often affects the maxilla and rarely crosses the midline; bilateral or multiquadrant involvement has been reported, though this is very rare. In this case, the primary and succedaneous permanent dentition were affected with hypoplastic, dysmorphic teeth, delayed eruption and gingival enlargement, consistent with previously reported features of RO. The affected dentition is highly prone to decay, fragile and easily crumbles under masticatory pressure or during extractions. The etiology remains unknown, and no family or medical history was contributo-
ry. Unlike hereditary conditions such as dentin dysplasia, dentinogenesis imperfecta or amelogenesis imperfecta, RO typically affects a localized segment rather than the entire dentition. Management is multidisciplinary and often conservative in young patients to preserve primary teeth while monitoring the development of permanent dentition.
Diagnostic Discussion is contributed by University of Florida College of Dentistry professors, Drs. Nadim Islam and Indraneel Bhattacharyya and who provide insight and feedback on common, important new and challenging oral diseases.
The dental professors operate a large, multi-state biopsy service. The column’s case studies originate from the more than 16,000 specimens the service receives annually from all over the United States.
Clinicians are invited to submit cases from their practices. Cases may be used in the “Diagnostic Discussion,” with credit given to the submitter.
Conflict of Interest Disclosure: None reported for Drs. Islam and Bhattacharyya.
*Resident in Oral & Maxillofacial Pathology
Drs. Islam and Bhattacharyya can be reached at oralpath@dental.ufl.edu.
The Florida Dental Association is an American Dental Association (ADA) CERP Recognized Provider. ADA CERP is a service of the ADA to assist dental professionals in identifying quality providers of continuing dental education. ADA CERP does not approve or endorse individual courses or instructors, nor does it imply acceptance of credit hours by boards of dentistry. Concerns or complaints about a continuing education provider may be directed to the provider or to ADA CERP at ada.org/goto/cerp.
Dr. Bhattacharyya
Dr. Islam
career center
FDA’s Career Center
The FDA’s online Career Center allows you to conveniently browse, place, modify and pay for your ads online, 24 hours a day. Our intent is to provide our advertisers with increased flexibility and enhanced options to personalize and draw attention to your online classified ads!
General Dentist - Independent Practice, Tampa.
Overview: We’re hiring a full-time General Dentist to take on the primary dayto-day clinical workload at our independent practice. Current DSO associates looking for an independent setting are encouraged to apply! Details: Well-established practice with significant revenue opportunity; Dentist of Record role with clinical autonomy within agreed practice standards (alongside a part-time owner-dentist); Full-time, 4–5 days/week (schedule set collaboratively based on clinic needs); Competitive compensation with performance-based incentives; Tech-forward front and back office for better patient experience and less admin friction. Qualifications: DDS/DMD from an accredited dental school; Active Florida dental license (or immediate eligibility). Visit careers.florida dental.org/job/general-dentist-independent-practice-tampa-florida-0290
Interm Services Provided Anywhere in Florida.GENERAL DENTIST WILL TRAVEL ANYWHERE IN FLORIDA: I will cover your practice so that production continues while you are out. Sick Leave, maternity leave, vacation or death. Experienced in covering general dentists, prostodontist and pedodontists. Please call or text Robert Zoch, DDS, MAGD at 512-517-2826 or email: drzoch@yahoo.com. Visit careers.floridadental.org/job/interim-services-any-florida-0286
Dental Office for Sale in Altamonte Springs. Fantastic Listing! Absolutely Stunning 2,500 sq. ft. Free-Standing Dental Office with Beautiful Landscaping in a Highly Sought-After, High-End Area of Altamonte Springs, Florida. This property is a fully operational Dental Office featuring six functional operatories, with plumbing in place for two additional operatories. The office has three restrooms. A new beautifully tiled roof. The practice has been operating continuously since 1995 and is fully digital, offering a seamless, modern workflow for any incoming Dentist. The purchase price is $1.7 mil. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to own a turnkey Dental Office in a fantastic location! The traffic count is 40-50k per day. Very high visibility with excellent signage. For more information and photos and to schedule a showing, please call or text Dr. Robert S. Kilcourse, Jr., Broker, Exclusive Real Estate: 407-2305255 or 407-767-9000. Visit careers.floridadental.org/job/dental-office-forsale-in-altamonte-altamonte-springs-florida-0285.
Prosthodontist or General Dentist in Orlando. Up to $500k year 1. Up to $550k year 2+. Nuvia Dental Implant Center is rapidly expanding and looking for enthusiastic Prosthodontist or General Dentist with full arch, fixed experience to join our team as a Restorative Doctor at our location in Orlando, FL. We are a leader in dental implant services, known for our exceptional patient care and innovative solutions. With over 45 locations across the country, Nuvia has been featured on major news outlets such as Yahoo Finance, ABC, and CBS. Nuvia's 50,000+ 5-star Google reviews make it an ideal career for any hard working dental assistant professional who enjoys helping patients through a life changing procedure. At Nuvia, our Restorative Doctors are adaptable and have an eagerness to learn and grow. An ideal candidate would have knowledge of dental implants along with a fixed and removable prosthodontic background. Strong interpersonal skills with your patients and team are crucial for this position. Hours are full time, 4-5 days a week. Compensation is a base salary + % of production. Our Restorative Docs are making $300-525k a year during their first year and $320-550k during year 2 and beyond , with our top third making over $485k! Major advantages of working with Nuvia include the following: Optimized chairtime as a result of; efficient workflows, expedited patient treatment course and less prosthetic breakage; In-house lab allows providers the opportunity to work directly and consistently with dedicated lab team members; Ability to collaborate with Nu-
via’s network of premier restorative providers. Our benefits package includes the following: Relocation bonus potential “if relocating” (Based on needs of the location and organization); Paid Malpractice Insurance; On site labs; No practice management; Paid license renewal up to $500 per year; Annual CE Reimbursement; Paid Time Off; Paid Holidays; Company Paid Benefits: Health, Dental, Short Term Disability; 401k + match. Education/Experience/Licensure: Graduation from an accredited dental school (DDS/DMD) required; Certificate in Prosthodontics from an American Dental Association accredited program, or the equivalent in related experience; Unrestricted license to practice dentistry in the State of Florida; DEA registration; Current ACLS AND BLS certification Ability to maintain professional malpractice insurance All-on-X restorative treatment experience Extensive removable prosthodontics experience; Implant planning on CBCT; AEGD/GPR/Prosth residency trained. Duties: Diagnose and treatment plan All-on-X; Patient education on treatment options; Work with other providers (Prosthodontists. Dentists and Oral Surgeons) to complete Allon-X treatment; High quality execution of all phases of prosthetic treatment; Build good rapport with patients and staff to ensure a successful and cohesive office; Delivery of prosthetics to the standards set forth by the practice. Day In The Life: Reviewing patient info and cone beam CT scans to diagnose and treatment plan All-on-X treatment; Creating preoperative prosthodontic plans
Visit the FDA’s Career Center at careers.floridadental.org. Post an ad on the FDA Career Center and it will be published in our journal, Today’s FDA, at no additional cost. Today’s FDA is bimonthly, therefore, the basic text of all active ads will be extracted from the Career Center on roughly the 5th of every other month (e.g., Jan. 5 for the Jan/Feb issue, March 5 for the March/April issue. etc.). Please note: Ads for the Nov/Dec issue must be placed no later than Nov. 1. We reserve the right to edit excessively long entries.
to communicate needs and collaborate with treating surgeons; Check in during surgeries to provide prosthodontic guidance; Gather records at the end of surgery according to Nuvia's unique workflow and create lab prescriptions; Deliver next day permanent restorations to the previous day's surgical patient; Follow up appointments The biggest challenge of this position is managing your patient’s expectations while juggling both the digital and analog pieces of the AOX workflow. Our team members are as diverse as the patients we serve, building special connections with them throughout their journey with us is one of the many benefits of this position. Imagine being part of a team that gets to give patients their confidence back through a brand new smile, we get to do it every day! We are eager to invent, find new solutions to problems and develop new processes. At Nuvia, we have a culture of excellence while still collaborating well as a team. We are obsessed with our patients, love what we do and feel honored to be able to provide such an incredible service. If you feel like you would be a good fit with our culture and like the idea of changing people's lives, apply today! We look forward to meeting you. Visit careers.floridadental. org/job/prosthodontist-or-general-dentist-orlando-florida-0288.
Practice for Sale, Crestview. Located in Crestview, Florida. We are just 20 min North of Destin, FL—the home of the prettiest beaches on the Emerald Coast! Crestview is a fast-growing community with a large Military influence from the neighboring Eglin Airforce base. Practice Highlights: Production (2024): $1,205,598; Collections (2024): $1,221,641; § 2025 on track to produce ~1,300,000; New Patients (2025): 395 as of 09/30/2025; Established: 2006; Google Presence: 4.9-star average rating 292 reviews. 2021-2024- FFS only; 2025- FFS + PPO. Facility & Technology: 3200 Sqft Office; 7 Operatories: 3 doctor, 3 hygiene, 1 extra (not furnished); CBCT Sirona Orthos; Open 4 days/ week; Plenty of parking and easy family access; Real Estate is Available for Purchase (sale of real estate with practice is preferred). Seller Transition Support: Seller will provide post-sale transition support and be available to answer questions to ensure a smooth handoff. Asking price: $2,200,000.00 (practice and real estate). Contact through email: Emeraldcoastdmd@gmail.com. Visit careers.floridadental.org/job/practice-for-sale-crestview-florida-0289
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Does Your Career Need Protection, Restoration ... or a Complete Excavation?
By FDA Editor Hugh Wunderlich, DDS, CDE
At what point in your dental career does the Florida Dental Association (FDA) become important? Do you join in the early stages when the benefits of the “treatment” of organized dentistry are most beneficial? Or do you put it off because “it doesn’t hurt … I don’t see the value in it”?
I can’t help but notice the similarities between some of my patients’ attitudes toward their own dental health and the apathy of some of my colleagues toward organized dentistry. At some point, we were all in the early stages of our dental careers, and, just as restoring a small carious lesion, an influx of organized dentistry at that point would pay off 10-fold in the future.
Imagine how a mentor or colleague at an affiliate meeting could have helped you through a staffing problem, or without governmental advocacy by the American Dental Association (ADA), your dental operatories would have had Occupational Safety and Health Administration-required soundproof doors. Or perhaps a clinical misstep could have been resolved with peer review rather than the Florida Board of Dentistry. Any of these issues left unchecked could expand and decay your dental practice.
Each of us has experienced the personal frustration of a patient who, given all the treatment options, chooses the quick fix or exodontia on a very restorable “key” tooth.
And of course, the easy fix for us is to ignore the FDA and claim the dues are too high. Perhaps your patient who refuses treatment has not been properly educated on the importance and benefits of restorative treatment. So too, the FDA might be at fault for not fully educating its members on all the benefits of membership. But both patient and doctor must be engaged and encouraged to listen to “treatment options.”
Dozens of FDA-opposed bills have died quietly in committee to little fanfare. The FDA publishes bimonthly issues of Today’s FDA, Capitol Report and more. The FDA transmits blast e-mails on current events and the monthly digital version of News Bites. The Florida Dental Convention, our annual summer meeting, draws in nationally known speakers and exhibitors for continuing education and professional enlightenment.
All of these could combine to be the gold foil of your career. We need to make an effort to pause in your professional health to recognize the benefits of organized dentistry. Please excavate the decay in your career and restore your profession.
FDA Editor Dr. Hugh Wunderlich can be reached at hwunderlich@bot.floridadental.org.
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