gda action november 2009
DESCRIPTION
GDA Action is the Journal of the Georgia Dental AssociationTRANSCRIPT
1859 2009
ACTIONTHE JOURNAL OF THE GEORGIA DENTAL ASSOCIATION NOVEMBER 2009
C e l e b r a t i n g 1 5 0 Y e a r s o f S e r v i c e & A d v o c a c y
ACTIONTHE JOURNAL OF THE GEORGIA DENTAL ASSOCIATION NOVEMBER 2009
C e l e b r a t i n g 1 5 0 Y e a r s o f S e r v i c e & A d v o c a c y
1859 2009
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ADS South . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
AFTCO Transition Consultants . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
Atlanta Age Management Medicine . . . . . . . . .17
Center for TMJ Therapy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
The Doctor’s Safety Net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
GDA Dental Recovery Network . . . . . . . . . . . .36
GDA LAW Day Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39
Georgia Association of Orthodontists . . . . . . . .8
Georgia Dental Insurance Services . . . . . . . . .40
Great Expressions Dental Centers . . . . . . . . . .18
Law Office of Stuart J. Oberman . . . . . . . . . . .14
Medical Protective . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Oakhurst Realty Partners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
Paragon Dental Practice Transitions . . . . . . . . .8
PriceDoc.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
Professional Debt Recovery Services . . . . . . .11
Professional Practice Management . . . . . . . . .37
Southeast Transitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
Southern Craft . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
U.S. Army Dentist Recruitment . . . . . . . . . . . .35
index of advertisers
GDA ACTION (ISSN 0273-5989) The official publication ofthe Georgia Dental Association (GDA) is published monthly.POSTMASTER: Send address changes to GDA Action at7000 Peachtree Dunwoody Road N.E., Suite 200,Building 17, Atlanta, GA 30328. Phone numbers in state are(404) 636-7553 and (800) 432-4357. www.gadental.org.
Closing date for copy: first of the month preceding publicationmonth. Subscriptions: $17 of membership dues is for thenewsletter; all others, $75 per year. Periodicals postage paidat Atlanta, GA.
Dr. Jonathan Dubin Delaine HallGDA Editor GDA Managing Editor2970 Clairmont Rd 7000 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd NESuite 195 Suite 200, Building 17Atlanta, GA 30329 Atlanta, GA 30328
2009-2010 Georgia Dental Association Officers Kent H. Percy, DDS, PresidentJohn F. Harrington Jr., DDS, President ElectMichael O. Vernon, DMD, Vice PresidentJames B. Hall III, DDS, MS, Secretary/TreasurerJonathan S. Dubin, DMD, Editor
GDA/GDIS/PDRS Executive Office Staff Members
Martha S. Phillips, Executive DirectorLisa Chandler, Director of Member Services
Nelda H. Greene, MBA, Associate Executive Director
Delaine Hall, Director of Communications
Skip Jones, Director of Operations (PDRS)
Barbara Kaul, Property and Casualty Accounts Manager
Courtney Layfield, Director of Administrative Services
Victoria LeMaire, Medical Accounts Manager
Melana Kopman McClatchey, General Counsel
Denis Mucha, Director of Operations (GDIS)
Phyllis Willich, Administrative Assistant
Pamela K. Yungk, Director of Membership & Finance
GDA Action seeks to be an issues-driven journal focusing on current mattersaffecting Georgia dentists, patients, and their treatment, accomplished throughdisseminating information and providing a forum for member commentary.
© Copyright 2009 by the Georgia Dental Association. All rights reserved. No partof this publication may be reproduced without written permission. Publicationof any article or advertisement should not be deemed an endorsement of theopinions expressed or products advertised. The Association expressly reservesthe right to refuse publication of any article, photograph, or advertisement.
9 GDA Seeks Dentist Nominations forOpen Leadership Positions
10 Partial Unemployment Benefits: An Alternative to Laying-Off Staff
12 Tips for Avoiding Internet Scams,Virus Attacks, and Spoof Web Sites
18 Dental Home Initiative: ExaminingGeorgia’s Children by Age One
19 Dental Home CE Offer: View Dental Home DVD for CERP Credit
14 Lee Hawkins: Profile of a GeorgiaDentist Running for Congress
4 Parting Shots
5 Editorial
6 Letters
6 News and Views
33 Event Calendar
34 Classifieds
38 Breaking the Mold
This issue contains a supplement to theGDA Directory and Sourcebook withcurrent information on state officers;Board of Trustees and House of Delegatesmembers; governing boards; dentalorganization contacts; endorsed services;executive office staff; the GDA Delegationto the ADA; district officers; the Alliance tothe GDA; and committees. Turn to page22 for the supplement, and rememberto retain this issue of Action for use inyour office.
other features sections
on the cover
Member Publication American Association of Dental Editors
ACTION
V O L U M E 2 9 , N U M B E R 1 1 • N O V E M B E R 2 0 0 9
Note: Publication of an advertisement is not to be construed as anendorsement or approval by the GDA or any of its subsidiaries,committees, or task forces of the product or service offered in the
advertisement unless the advertisement specifically includes anauthorized statement that such approval or endorsement hasbeen granted.
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4 GDA ACTIONNOVEMBER 2009
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This time of year comes around and we findthe traditional Thanksgiving season where weconsciously look to award thanks for what wehave and who we have around us. I alwaysthought that while a day, or even a season, isnice and maybe necessary to recognizethanksgiving, we should have daily thankspermeating our psyche. I know that seemsutopian, but why not? Why not infuseourselves, and our children as well, withthanksgiving?
It is so easy to take for granted what weare privileged to have in our daily lives just asit is easy to take for granted the people wehave in our lives—people who parent us,people who foster us, and people who servewith us and work with us and for us. It is alsoeasy to take the GDA for granted. It is easyto send in a dues payment every year andconsciously or subconsciously use the GDA’sservices and influence, or merely function inthe environment that the ADA and GDA havecreated in our society. That environmentincludes programs, legislation, and thegeneral attitude that dentistry enjoys.
It is even easier to stop or never startsending a dues payment. That percentage ofdentists who choose not to join may not enjoythe direct benefits of membership services,but they do enjoy and benefit from all ofthe association’s work—and your work. Theysimply do not understand the effect theGDA / ADA have on their profession andtheir livelihood.
Dentistry has not been spared in thiseconomic downturn we have been experi-encing, and so dues checks may seem anoptional or even frivolous item in one’s budgetthis year. Many dentists may be considering
letting membership become a casualty ofthe times mostly because the work that theGDA / ADA does is taken for granted.
Instead, at this time of year when weovertly give thanks, let us raise the awarenessof organized dentistry’s place in our lives.We don’t need to have a family dinner andpumpkin pie. We need to do more. How dowe make what is taken for granted a highpriority? The choir knows that in toughertimes membership is even more important.Just ask yourself how much relevance theAmerican Medical Association has with a20-something percentage of membership.
Ask a colleague down the street if theyare a member. If they are, congratulate themfor making a difference, for caring aboutdentistry. If they are not, don’t ask themwhy not. Educate them on the benefits theycan enjoy and let them know what they aremissing. Educate them on the importanceof membership in political influence andhow it has helped them in the past and isimportant today more than ever before.
If a dentist says they don’t like the directiona district, or GDA, or ADA sometimes takes,let them know they can only change anorganization by being a member and beinginvolved.
Just as I believe thanksgiving shouldbe in our daily fiber, I believe active, involvedmembership should be a part of our everydayprofessional life.
5GDA ACTIONNOVEMBER 2009
Giving Thanks
Jonathan S. Dubin, DMD
editorialperspective
“Teach your
children well,
Their father’s hell
Did slowly go by …
Of tender years,
Can’t know
the fears
That your
elders grew by . . .”
Graham Nash
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membersin the news
Dr. Richard Callan, associate professor of general dentistry, hasbeen appointed chair of the Department of General Dentistry inthe Medical College of Georgia School of Dentistry. A 1983alumnus of the MCG School of Dentistry, Dr. Callan is the firstpermanent chair of the department, which was created in2006. He has served as the department’s interim chair sinceSeptember 2007.
The MCG School of Dentistry has received a three-year, $1.5million grant from the U.S. Department of Health andHuman Services to increase the number of teaching sites inGeorgia and increase loan forgiveness for graduates who opt topractice in underserved areas. Funds totaling $200,000 annuallywill be provided for eight dentists who agree to serve in a DentalHealth Profession Shortage Area.
“Each dentist could potentially receive $25,000 each year forthree years,” said MCG Associate Dean Dr. Carole Hanes. “The
goal is to help them pay back their loans and for them to establishthemselves in these areas. Students see that they could make a liv-ing in those areas, and at the same time, they’re providing care tounderserved patients.”
The grant also will maintain MCG’s pediatric dentistryrotation at the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Center forCraniofacial Disorders. The school has six pediatric residents andsends one each month to treat critically ill patients.
“Those patients are often very sick kids with illnesses likebirth defects, cleft lip syndrome, or congenital heart disease andare getting the benefits of additional care from the residents,”says MCG Associate Dean Dr. Jim Barenie, a co-investiga-tor on the grant with Dr. Hanes. “The residents get an invaluableexperience they wouldn’t usually get on campus, so it’s a veryunique opportunity.”
letters
Dear GDA Members,
The ADA Annual Session in Hawaii was one which those of us in theFifth District will never forget. Although my run for President-electof the ADA was not successful, the experience was a positive onein many ways.
First, I want to thank those members of the GDA who providedsupport in so many ways. The confidence you had in me and thefact that you felt I was the person for the job at this particular timewas priceless, as they say in the commercials. A campaign is costlyand your willingness to contribute allowed me to visit many dentistsacross the country passing on the message that dentistry is built ona solid framework that should not be destroyed by those outsidethe profession. Challenging our association to draw the line duringthese vital healthcare reform discussions is an accomplishment Ifeel I helped bring to the forefront, win or lose.
A second winning factor for the campaign is the building ofbridges across the country with many that in the past we foundourselves at odds with philosophically. During discussions, I hopeI represented the dentists in the Southeast well, learning that many
times we have more in common with others than we do different.The campaign gave the Fifth District the opportunity to makefriends across the country this year which will help us move issuesforward nationally in the future, retaining the integrity and valuesthat have made dentistry work so well.
Last, but by no means least, I want to thank those of you whoworked so hard to make the campaign one that others will rememberas unique, well-run, enthusiastic, and memorable. We set the standardother candidates will seek to achieve over the next few years, andwere able to do it only because of the dedication and hard work ofso many of you.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart. The friendships andchance to represent the Fifth District as Trustee mean more to methan the title I was seeking. I consider it an honor to have repre-sented you in Chicago these past three years and get our messageout nationally. I look forward to continuing to help the professionin new and exciting ways.
Marie C. Schweinebraten, DMDDuluth, Georgia
The Georgia Dental Association (GDA) will not publish unsigned letters submitted to Action, or letters submitted under a name the GDA cannot verify.The Editor reserves the right to edit all letters for clarity and length. Opinions presented in letters and commentaries are the authors’ opinions, anddo not necessarily reflect the GDA’s adopted policies. Questions, comments, and submissions may be directed to the GDA office by phone to(404) 636-7553, fax to (404) 633-3943, or email to [email protected].
Dr. Marie Schweinebraten: Thanks for support
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The Medical College of Georgia (MCG)School of Dentistry broke ground for itsnew educational facility on September 30.Guests included Governor Sonny Perdue,University System of Georgia ChancellorErroll Davis Jr., State Sen. Jack Hill, andState Rep. Ben Harbin, along withhundreds of dentists, students, and stateand local officials.
“Construction of the new School ofDentistry facility is one of MCG’s top pri-orities,” said MCG President Dr. DanielRahn. “The state needs more dentists, andthis facility will allow us to expand our edu-cational capacity to better keep pace withstate need.”
The five-story educational facility willoccupy a portion of the site of the formerGilbert Manor housing project in Augusta.Demolition of the Gilbert Manor propertyis complete and construction will beginimmediately and last approximately twoyears. The building should be occupied byearly 2012.
“Oral health is essential to overallhealth,” School of Dentistry Dean Dr.Connie Drisko said. “The new buildingwill help us fulfill our mission to improveoral and craniofacial health through scien-tific discovery, patient care, and educatingfuture oral health care providers. We needa facility that reflects the quality of ourfaculty, staff, and students.”
The $112 million, 268,788-square-foot building will be more than 100,000square feet larger than the existingbuilding, which opened in 1970 on LaneyWalker Boulevard. The expanded spacewill allow the school to increase its classsize incrementally from 63 to 100 by 2016,and its residency positions from 44 to 72.The increase will make the MCG School ofDentistry among the largest in the nation.Only 13 of the country’s 58 dental schoolshave a class size of 100 or more, accordingto the American Dental Association.
The growth should help alleviate theshortage of dentists in the state, which
has 41.4 dentists per 100,000 citizens—considerably fewer than the nationwideratio of 54.3 per 100,000, according to theAmerican Dental Association. Approximately80-85 percent of MCG School of Dentistrygraduates practice in Georgia.
The facility will house the dentalschool’s nine specialty clinics, two studentclinics, simulation labs, the School ofAllied Health Sciences’ dental hygieneprogram, an administration area, anexpanded faculty practice, and a newCenter for Esthetic and Implant Dentistry.Patient visits are projected to increasesignificantly.
Financing for the facility’s constructionincludes $5 million appropriated by thestate in the 2008 budget, $97 million inbonds approved by the Georgia legislaturein the 2009 and 2010 budgets, and nearly$7.5 million in private gifts and pledges.The Augusta Commission provided $10million in 2008 for the University Systemof Georgia to acquire the Augusta HousingAuthority’s Gilbert Manor property.
MCG is continuing to seek additionalprivate support for the project.
Planning also is under way for theCommons, a new building that will beadjacent to the new School of Dentistry.The Commons will include classrooms,computer rooms, and conference roomsfor dental and medical students. OtherSchool of Medicine facilities also areproposed for the Gilbert Manor site.(From an article by Paula Hinley at mcg.edu.)
MCG hosts groundbreaking ceremony for new dental school building
An artist’s representation of how the MCG School of Dentistry building will appearafter its completion. (Rendering courtesy of MCG.)
Breaking ground for the new MCG School of Dentistry building on September 30.Shovel masters were Dr. Dan Rahn, Dr. Barry Goldstein, Chancellor Erroll Davis Jr.,Dr. Connie Drisko, Dr. Howard Jones, Dr. Kent Guion, Dr. Annette Rainge, Gov. SonnyPerdue, Augusta Mayor Deke Copenhaver, Rep. Ben Harbin, Sen. Jack Hill, Rep.Quincy Murphy, Augusta minister Rodger Murchison, Dr. Dawnyetta Marable, and Dr.Mark Stevens. (Photo courtesy of MCG.)
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The GDA extends sympathy to the family and colleagues of the following
individuals. For full obituaries on these member dentists, visit www.gadental.org or
call the GDA office.
In Memoriam
Richard F. Maxwell, DDS, who died April 15, 2009, at the age of 78. Dr. Maxwell
was a member of the GDA through the Northern District. He was a 1956 Emory
University School of Dentistry graduate and a general dentist. He was an ADA Life
Member.
Murray Stein, DDS, who died September 24, 2009, at the age of 85. Dr. Stein
was a member of the GDA through the Northwestern District. He was a 1951
Northwestern University School of Dentistry graduate and a general dentist. He
was a GDA Honorable Fellow and an ADA Life Member.
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The GDA Nominating Committee will meeton Saturday, January 9, 2010, at the GDAexecutive office to consider nominationsfor the following offices:
• GDA Vice President
• GDA Board of Trustees (two open trustee positions)
• ADA Delegation (Six open positions; one at-large)
• Georgia Board of Dentistry (one open position)
The Speaker of the House ofDelegates is elected annually at theSummer House of Delegates. PresidentDr. Kent Percy will appoint a NominatingCommittee to submit names for the posi-tion to the July 2010 House of Delegates.The Speaker is elected for a one-yearterm and may be re-elected for up to fiveconsecutive terms. Dr. Kent Simmonswas elected as Speaker in July 2008, and iseligible for re-election in July 2010.
Districts must submit official nominationsfor the majority of the open positions.However, the At-Large position on theADA Delegation is open to all dentists. Adentist who plans to run for this At-Largeposition is asked to contact their districtpresident to advise them of his or herinterest, but a dentist does not needdistrict certification or support to run forthe position.
The deadline for districts and individualdentists to submit nomination informationis December 18, 2009. Nominations mustinclude a CV and any required supportingdocumentation. For instance, districtsmust submit a letter from the districtpresident or president elect stating adistrict’s support of a given candidate.
Below is information on the currentopen positions. If you have any questionsabout the specific information required fora particular nomination, contact the GDAoffice at (800) 432-4357 or (404) 636-7553,or [email protected].
GDA Board of TrusteesThe term of Trustee Dr. Robin Reich(Northwestern District) expires in July2010. The term of Trustee Dr. RobertCarpenter (Western District) expires inJuly 2010. These districts are tasked withsubmitting official nominations forthese positions. District trustees servethree-year terms.
Georgia Board of DentistryThe term of Dr. Henry Cook Sr. (WesternDistrict) expires in August 2010. Thedistrict is tasked with submitting an officialnomination. The House of Delegates willapprove the nomination, and the GDA willthen send four recommended names tothe Governor for consideration.
ADA DelegationThe terms of Delegates Dr. Henry CookSr. (Western District), Dr. Brad Greenway(Northern District), Dr. Richard Weinman(Northern District), and Dr. TimothyFussell (Southwestern District) as well asAlternate Delegate Dr. Marshall Mann(Northwestern District) expire in January2010. These districts are tasked withsubmitting official nominations for thesepositions. Delegation members serve four-year terms, with a limit of three consecu-tive terms (years served on the Delegationin GDA officer positions do not count as aterm of service).
Dr. Cook is not eligible for re-nominationdue to term limits. The other doctors areeligible to return to their Delegation slots.
GDA Vice President Dr. Mike Vernonwill hold an officer position on the ADADelegation at the 2010 ADA House ofDelegates, and so his Delegate positionwill need to be filled in January as well.Eastern District is tasked with submittingan official nomination for this position.
The At-Large term of Dr. PeterTrager also expires in January 2010. AnyGDA dentist in good standing may submita CV to the GDA by December 18, 2009,
and notify the GDA of their intent torun for the At-Large position. Either thecandidate or his or her proxy may speak atthe January 2010 House of Delegatesmeeting (Sunday, January 10, at theAtlanta Marriott Perimeter Center). Votingwill continue until a single candidate winsa majority of votes. Dr. Trager is eligible torun again for this slot.
Nominating Committee MembersThe Committee’s voting members areCentral Drs. Roy Lehrman and Kara Moore(observer Vice President Dr. AlfredPeters); Eastern Drs. Celia Dunn andGrant Loo (observer Vice President Dr.Lee Andrews); Northern Drs. Ben Jerniganand Jeff Kendrick (observer Vice PresidentDr. Doug Torbush); Northwestern Drs.Bruce Camp and Terry O’Shea (observerVice President Dr. Wilkie Stadeker);Southeastern Drs. Larry Schmitz andMark Dusek (observer Vice President Dr.Jay McCaslin VI); Southwestern Drs.Chris Hasty and Jeff Singleton (observer1st Vice President Dr. Amanda Merritt);and Western Drs. Matt Adams and JayHarris (observer Vice President Dr. NancyGallagher). GDA President Dr. KentPercy also has a vote, while PresidentElect Dr. Jay Harrington and VicePresident Dr. Mike Vernon serve asobservers. All voting is by secret ballot.Candidates or a designated representativemay address the Nominating Committeefor no more than four minutes during theCommittee’s meeting in January.
Positions Open on Board of Trustees,ADA Delegation, and Board of Dentistry
GDA Nominations Due December 18
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10 GDA ACTIONNOVEMBER 2009
Recently, the GDA received a phone callfrom one of its members. This dentist statedthat her business was down, and she wasconsidering laying off some of her employees.She was calling the GDA to determine ifthere was some other way to reduce coststhat did not require a layoff. The GDAhad the resources to let her know that infact there was another option which maybe available to her–partial unemploymentbenefits.
For many months, the economy hasslowed and every industry includingdentistry has felt the pinch. As an employer,some dentists have been wondering whatthey can do to weather this storm. Thegreatest overhead expense for many den-tists is the cost of payroll and employeebenefits. Many employers choose simply
to lay off one or more of their employeesand under some circumstances, laying-offemployees simply is unavoidable. Inmany circumstances though, furloughingan employee and seeking partialunemployment benefits for that workercan be a viable alternative for the dentistand the employee. It is important to keepin mind that while a layoff may reducecost in the short term, in the long-term the dentist may be left strugglingwithout skilled, capable workers andinadvertently lower the morale among theremaining employees.
One way to preserve the dentist’sworkforce for that day when the economydoes turn around (a day we all hope is justaround the corner!) is to reduce thenumber of days or hours each employee
works. This option is often referred to as afurlough. While a layoff is a permanentend to the employment relationship, afurlough is a temporary employer-plannedleave of absence normally resulting from adownturn in the economy or from someother financial reason. A furlough canenable an employee who would otherwisebe without a job to continue working on apart-time basis and replace some of whathe or she is losing in wages with partialunemployment insurance benefits.
Luckily, Georgia is one of the fewstates which does offer partial unemploymentbenefits under certain circumstances. Anemployee may be eligible for partialunemployment insurance benefits if theemployee:
Partial Unemployment Benefits:An Alternative for Dentists and their StaffMelana Kopman McClatcheyGDA General Counsel
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• Was a full-time employee before the reduction in hours, not merely a part-time employee
• Was not discharged, did not quit, and is not on leave
• Is a citizen of the United States
• Is being temporarily furloughed for a period of 4-6 weeks
• Is accepting all the hours the employer is making available to her
• Is not receiving a retirement pension
Normally partial unemploymentbenefits are filed by the employer onbehalf of the employee on a weekly basis.The filing is generally an uncomplicatedprocedure which can be completed via theInternet.
Dentists must keep a couple ofadditional key points in mind. First, if theemployee will earn more than $380.00 perweek in any week during the furloughperiod, that employee will becomeineligible for unemployment benefits.Second, the absolute maximum amount ofpartial benefits an employee may receive is$330.00 per week. Regardless of how much
the employee was making prior to thetemporary furlough, he or she will neverbe eligible to draw more than this amount.While this is the maximum benefit, theDepartment of Labor through computationsinvolving the employee’s average salary forthe previous five quarters determines theamount of benefits the employee is eligibleto receive.
Furloughing some or all staff may be areasonable way to deal with these tougheconomic times. Before implementing afurlough, though, it is imperative to obtainthe help of a skilled employment attorneyto avoid some potential legal and financialpitfalls. One such pitfall includes employ-ee benefits. Some group health plansdefine eligible participants as full-timeemployees who work at least 30 hours aweek. If the employee’s hours are reducedto 20 hours, that employee may no longerbe eligible to participate in the health planunless they elect to utilize continuationcoverage. Another reason to consult anattorney is to ensure that the furloughdoes not cause the loss of exemption fromovertime requirements under the FairLabor Standards Act. This is a complication
which can arise if a dentist seeks to reducethe hours of a salaried, exempt employee.While there are usually ways to accomplisha furlough of a salaried, exempt employee,consultation with an attorney is advisable.An employment attorney will also be awareof other legal issues that a dentist shouldconsider in the event a furlough takes place.
With some legal guidance, a furloughcan be instituted and serve as a way to notonly save overhead dollars but increasemorale and retain skilled workers.
For more information on partialunemployment benefits, dentists can contactthe Georgia Department of Labor’s PartialUnemployment Benefits department at(404) 232-3050 and on the web atwww.dol.state.ga.us/em/partial_claims.htm.Additionally, dentists with questionscan email Melana Kopman McClatchey [email protected].
Please be aware that this article is forinformational purposes only and is notintended to provide legal advice. Dentistsmust consult with their private attorneysfor such advice.
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Thanks to the Internet, banking, shopping,and socializing are easily done with a fewkeystrokes. But the Internet has also giventhieves ways to tap into the identities andfinances of the unwary. Here are some tipson protecting your personal and financialinformation online.
Avoid Phishing ScamsOne way thieves can steal your personalinformation is by convincing you torespond to fraudulent emails. Thisprocess, called “phishing,” begins whenyou receive an email that appears to befrom a bank, credit card company, or otherlegitimate business with which you haveconducted transactions. The email maywarn of a dire occurrence, for instance thatyour account has been compromised byan unauthorized third party or needsupdating. The email may contain a logo,and address you by name—they aredesigned to look legitimate.
The email may urge you to click ahyperlink (an email or web site address)to take immediate action to avoid aconsequence such as account suspension.If you follow the hyperlink, you may beled to a web page that requires you tosubmit your name, account numbers, pinnumbers, and / or passwords to resolvethe issue. If you submit this information,you can provide thieves with everythingthey need to steal your money andidentity.
Be aware that legitimate companiesshould never text or email clients askingfor personal or account information. If youare contacted this way, call the companyusing a number you already have (such asthe customer service number on the backof a card) to confirm the request. Or, visitthe company’s web site by typing in theirknown address in a separate Internetwindow and contact the company’scustomer service department.
You can look for signs that may signalan email as a phishing attempt. There maybe spelling or grammatical errors. Theyfrequently feature “urgent” and “actionrequired” phrases that play on your fears.The email may use URL spoofing. Say
you receive an email that asks you to visitwww.gadental.org. Conduct a “spoof” testby holding your mouse arrow over theweb site address, or URL. Then, withoutclicking, look at the lower left corner ofyour browser window, where yourbrowser status bar is located. In aphishing email, the URL in the status barwill likely differ from the URL in theemail. The difference may not beextreme. Scammers often transposeletters or delete a letter to make a spoofURL look legitimate (bankingwebite.comversus bankingwebsite.com).
Social Networking Can Result in Scams for UnwaryScammers are attracted by the hundredsof millions of users who frequent socialnetworking sites like Facebook andMySpace. For instance, many socialnetworkers were recently victimized bythe spread of the Koobface worm.Koobface (a re-arrangement of Facebook)attempts, upon successful infection, togather information from users such ascredit card numbers. It spreads bydelivering Facebook messages to peoplewho are ‘friends’ of a Facebook user whosecomputer is infected. The message directsrecipients to a third-party web site,where they are prompted to download apurported update of the free Adobe Flashplayer. If they download and execute thefile, Koobface infects their system.Koobface can then commandeer the com-puter’s search engine use and direct it tocontaminated web sites, or infect acomputer with files such as a filterprogram that blocks access to legitimatesecurity web sites (www.wikipedia.com).
A safe practice is not to openattachments or click on links you receivefrom unknown persons, or unexpectedlyreceived attachments or links sent frompersons you know. In addition, familiarizeyourself with the privacy and securitysettings on your social networking site soyou can control the information youreceive and the information you display tothe wider world.
Keep Your Computer Protection Software UpdatedYour computer should be protected byanti-virus and anti-spyware / malwaresoftware as well as a firewall. Software thatcomes with a new computer usually onlyworks for a specified time unless youpay a fee to keep it in effect. But once youpay for a full-featured version of securitysoftware, that software can only protectyour computer if you download updatesand scan your computer regularly. You canset up your software to conduct updatesand scans automatically.
Some scammers send emails oractivate pop-up windows that advertisesecurity software that is actually “malware”(malicious software) or spyware. Resistbuying software in response to pop-upmessages or emails, especially from sellersthat claim to have scanned your computerand detected malware.
The Federal Trade Commission’s website OnGuardOnline.gov can connect youto a list of security tools from legitimatevendors selected by GetNetWise, a projectof the Internet Education Foundation(www.ftc.gov).
You can also infect your computerwith malware if you click on a link in anemail, or on a pop-up window, that offersfree software such as games, moviesharing programs, or customized toolbars.Just visiting a web site linked in such anoffer, or downloading files from that site,may infect your computer. Malwarecan be exceptionally malicious onceinstalled—one type, key-logging malware,can reveal every letter and number youtype (credit card numbers and passwords)to a third party.
Shop With One Eye on Your Browser Safety SettingsShopping online? Don’t type in personal orfinancial information until you havechecked for indicators that a web site issecure. Safety indicators can include a lockicon on the browser’s status bar or a URLthat begins “https:” ( “s” stands for secure).Unfortunately, no indicator is foolproof.
Keep Your Personal and Financial Information Safe Online
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So, only do business with legitimatebusinesses that you are familiar withand look for and read all web site privacypolicies. If you don’t see such a policy, dobusiness elsewhere.
If you are not sure about a business’web site security, type the business nameor a product they offer into a searchengine. Often, search results will reveal ifconsumers have unfavorable things to sayabout a site’s security, or even if the site isa known phishing or malware site.
Be Wary of Attachments—And Get Rich Quick SchemesBe cautious about opening email attach-ments or downloading files fromemails you receive, even from a friendor co-worker (their computer could beinfected with a virus that is emailing you).Use the software on your computer toscan attachments for viruses. And eventhen, only open attachments that you areexpecting to receive that receive a cleanbill of health after scanning. Don’t forget
to turn off the option in your emailprogram that automatically downloadsattachments.
And remember—completely unso-licited email offers about helping for-eign dignitaries with their bank accounts,making a mint working from home, orinvesting in a secret real estate scheme arefraudulent. Period.
Keep Your Operating System and Web Browser UpdatedScammers often take advantage of Webbrowsers (such as Internet Explorer) andoperating system software (such asWindows) that don’t have the latestsecurity updates. Set your operatingsystem and Web browser to downloadand install security patches automatically,or remember to regularly check forsuch updates.
PC Tools (disclosure—the owneris security vendor Symantec)conducted a 2009 survey thatindicates consumers in theonline world remain vulnerableto scammers. The study notedthat:
• 41% of responders usedonly one or two passwordsfor all the sites they visit
• 64% had their security software configured toupdate automatically
• 84% always take actionwhen they receive a securityalert from software they have installed
• 37% verify a link before they follow or click it
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When Dr. Lee Hawkins served as GDApresident, his theme was “Power ThroughParticipation.” That theme is making are-appearance in his campaign for the U.S.Congress from Georgia’s Ninth District.
“In 2004, and really every year, theGDA and dentists working together madea powerful force for our profession and ourpatients,” said Dr. Hawkins, a native ofGainesville who has maintained a generaldentistry practice in the city since 1978.“Now, I am pleased that GDA dentists aresupporting my campaign for Congress inincreasing numbers. We can work togetherto put a dentist in Congress and helpensure that the values that governdentistry, the health care that works, arerepresented during the current health carereform debate and all future debates.”
Dr. Hawkins: A History of LeadershipDr. Hawkins’ year of leading the GDA wasmarked by several successful initiatives,including convincing a legislature dividedbetween Republicans and Democrats andrife with contention to save children’sdental coverage in the PeachCare program.
“The battle involved coalition buildingand near-nonstop lobbying efforts duringthe session,” recalls GDA ExecutiveDirector and lobbyist Martha Phillips. “Itwas beneficial to have Dr. Hawkins leadingthe charge to save the dental program. Henot only had his years of serving as VicePresident and President Elect to call on,but also his years serving on the GADPACboard and in GDA legislative leadershippositions since 1991. He has a wealth ofexpertise in legislative matters.”
After completing his service as GDApresident, Dr. Hawkins felt energized tostay involved in the legislative process. Heran for the state Senate in 2006, winning atough campaign and taking office inJanuary 2007. He was unopposed in 2008and took office for a second term inJanuary 2009.
His fellow legislators have recognizedhis leadership abilities—the currentlegislative positions he holds areChairman, State and Local GovernmentalOperations Committee; Vice Chairman,Reapportionment and RedistrictingCommittee; Vice Chairman, MARTOC(MARTA Oversight Committee); andSecretary, Agriculture and ConsumerAffairs Committee. He is also a memberof the Health and Human Services andNatural Resources and the Environmentcommittees.
Dr. Lee Hawkins: Bringing a Health Care Professional’s Perspective to Congress
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Democratic Candidates
Thurbert Baker (www.thurbertbaker.com) Baker has beenGeorgia’s Attorney General since 1997, winning that office threetimes. As a member of the Georgia House and as Floor Leaderfor Governor Zell Miller, Baker helped pass the state lottery andthe lottery-funded HOPE Scholarship program.
Roy Barnes (http://roy2010.com) Barnes, an attorney, served asGeorgia Governor from 1998-2002. Prior to 1998, he servedeight terms in the State Senate and six years in the StateHouse of Representatives. He is polling as the front-runner inthe Democratic field, followed by AG Thurbert Baker.
Carl Camon (www.camonforgovernor.com) Camon, an educator,is currently the five-term mayor of Ray City in Southwest Georgia.Improving and strengthening Georgia’s educational system topshis political platform.
Dubose Porter (http://duboseporterforgovernor.com) Porter, anattorney and owner of a daily newspaper and eight weeklies,states on his web site that “From reexamining mental health toprotecting school nurses and Peach[C]are for children of workingfamilies, a healthy state is a state that saves money.” He hasserved in the U.S. House of Representatives for 27 years.
David Poythress (www.poythressforgovernor.com) Poythress,an attorney, is a former State Labor Commissioner. After leavingactive military service, Poythress remained in the Air ForceReserve, and attained the rank of Brigadier General. In 1999,Governor Barnes appointed him as Adjutant General. GovernorPerdue re-appointed him to that post.
Republican Candidates
Nathan Deal (www.nathandeal.org) Nathan Deal, an attorneyand former judge, has served in the U.S. House ofRepresentatives since 1992. Prior to 1992, he served in the StateSenate for 12 years. He is a member of the Committee on Energyand Commerce and a member of the Subcommittee on Health,which oversees many issues affecting America’s public andprivate health sectors.
Karen Handel (http://karenhandel.com) Handel, a former DeputyChief of Staff in the Bush / Quayle White House and executivewith KPMG and CIBA Vision, is Georgia Secretary of State. Herweb site notes her support of a free-market health care systemand portable health coverage not tied to an employer, andopposition to a government-run, single-payer health system.
Eric Johnson (www.johnsonforgeorgians.com) Johnson, anarchitect, was elected to the Georgia Senate in 1994 after asingle term in the Georgia House of Representatives. He waselected as Senate President Pro Tempore in 2003 after theRepublican Party became the majority in the Senate for the firsttime since Reconstruction.
John Oxendine (www.johnoxendine.com) Oxendine, an attorney,is Georgia’s Insurance Commissioner. His 12-step Contractwith Georgia advocates abolishing the state tax code andinstituting a Fair Tax system. He is polling as the front runner inthe Republican field over Karen Handel.
Austin Scott (www.scottforga.com) Scott, an insurance broker,has served as a state representative since 1997. He currentlychairs the Governmental Affairs Committee, and is a member ofthe Appropriations, Rules, and Ways and Means committees.
Ray McBerry (www.georgiafirst.org) McBerry owns Ray McBerryEnterprises that produces radio and TV commercials for theAtlanta market. He is a proponent of the Georgia First movement,which advocates re-instituting a Jeffersonian Republic.
Candidates for Georgia Governor Invited to Address January 2010 House of Delegates
The GDA has invited the candidates for Georgia governor to address the January 2010 House of Delegates. Here is a snapshot of thecandidates who have declared for this important office. All member dentists and Alliance members are invited to attend the House tohear the candidates present their views on health care in general, dentistry in particular, and leading Georgia in this economic climate:
“I have always operated on the ideathat we need long-term solutions to ourchallenges both in and out of the healthcare arena,” said Dr. Hawkins. “In regardsto health care reform, I think we needto expand health savings accounts andprovide tax credits for personal insurance,not nationalize our health care system. Isupport creating a Constitutional amendmentthat would require us to have a balanced
federal budget. And I also support theFair Tax. I firmly believe I can make adifference for the constituents of theNinth District in many key areas.”
How You Can Get Involved in Dr. Hawkins’ Campaign“It is incumbent on us as fellow dentiststo elect leaders who will represent ourprofession and our personal concerns with
integrity. Lee fits the bill,” said GDA PastPresident Dr. Richard Weinman, who hasworked with Dr. Hawkins on several keylegislative issues. “I would encourage alldentists to support Lee, because he notonly knows our profession, but he also
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knows the challenges of running a smallbusiness and the issues we all face.”
If you are in the Ninth District,consider placing campaign literature inyour reception area and a sign in your yard.You can contact Dr. Hawkins’ campaignoffice at (678) 456-8916 to requestmaterials. Dentists in all areas of the state(as well as their spouses) can financiallysupport Dr. Hawkins’ campaign. WhileFederal laws do not allow corporate checksto be written for Congressional campaigns,you may mail personal checks made outto “Hawkins for Congress” to Hawkinsfor Congress, 4710 Jim Hood Road,Gainesville, Georgia 30506-2832.
Dentists are encouraged to visitwww.leehawkinsforcongress.com formore information on ways to get involvedwith the campaign and to sign up forcampaign updates.
About the Ninth District Race and ElectionThe Ninth District encompasses 15counties in Northeast Georgia: Catoosa,Dade, Dawson, Fannin, Forsyth, Gilmer,Gordon, Hall, Lumpkin, Murray, Pickens,Union, Walker, White, and Whitfield. Thedistrict is currently represented byNathan Deal, who is running for theGeorgia governorship in 2010 rather thanseek re-election to Congress where he hasserved since 1992.
Six other candidates—five Republicansand one independent—are seeking theseat in addition to Dr. Hawkins, who is aRepublican. The candidates include formerGeorgia Department of TransportationChairman Mike Evans, four-term StateRepresentative Tom Graves, JeremyJones, Edward Moon (the independentcandidate), former state Senate MajorityLeader Bill Stephens, and Steve Tarvin.Dr. Hawkins and Rep. Graves are running
neck and neck in terms of funds raised forcampaigning, with Dr. Hawkins slightly inthe lead, with Mr. Evans in third.
The primary election for the NinthDistrict race will be held July 20, 2010,with a runoff election date, if one isneeded, on August 10, 2010. This electionwill be the important one for Dr. Hawkinsas the race has just one independentcandidate and no Democratic candidates.The Republican candidate who winsthe primary election will most likely bethe Congressman from the Ninth Districtstarting in 2011. Early support for Dr.Hawkins could be the key to victory forthis dedicated public servant and healthcare professional with a dental perspective.
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Building a home, whether it’s made ofbricks and mortar or it’s one that welcomesfamilies with children as young as age onefor their first dental visit, demands teamwork. In the October 2009 Action, theGeorgia Dental Association introduced theDental Home Initiative (Give Georgians aDental Home) to you with an article on theknee-to-knee exam for very young childrenand infants by Dr. Carole Hanes and Dr.Tara Schafer as well an article on the den-tal home concept by GDA President Dr.Kent Percy. This edition’s feature focuseson a more in-depth course on the DentalHome Initiative for the age one dentalvisit with the inserted Dental Home DVD.The GDA Public Relations Committeeand the Task Force on Pediatric DentalCare strongly encourage general dentiststo review the Dental Home DVD andincorporate this concept into their dentalpractices.
The Centers for Disease Control andPrevention reports two to five-year-oldsare the only age group in this countrywhere the incidence of decay—earlychildhood caries and its serious healthconsequences in particular—is on the rise.Solid data also show children seen by ageone have significantly less dental diseasethroughout childhood than their peerswho are first seen later in life.
These are the compelling facts behindthe GDA Dental Home Initiative’s goals toexamine all children earlier and educatetheir parents and caregivers.
“With the rising incidence of toothdecay among very young children and alimited number of pediatric dentists, ourDental Home CE aims to encourage andenable the large pool of general dentists—which represent 80 percent of all dentistsin Georgia—to augment the efforts ofpediatric dentists and open their doors tothese children,” explains Dr. Kent Percy,GDA President.
The GDA, American Dental Association,and American Academy of PediatricDentistry recommend that children beexamined by a dentist within six months ofthe eruption of their first tooth and nolater than age one. This fosters an ongoingrelationship between the dentist, thedental team, and the patient leading to
comprehensive oral health care beingprovided throughout an individual’slifetime in a continuously accessible,coordinated, and family-centered way.
Welcoming all family members,including the youngest children, into ageneral dental practice takes team workand frequently begins at the front deskwhen a parent asks, “When should mychild see the dentist for the first time?”
Converting a general dental practiceinto a dental home will help the youngestpatients avoid serious dental problems,build long-term patient loyalty, positionthe practice and the individuals workingthere as progressive, and help generatereferrals.
The GDA Dental Home instructionalDVD inserted in this issue was producedby the Wisconsin Dental Association.The GDA purchased the right to use thisprogram at the recommendation of the
Board of Trustees and the House ofDelegates. The DVD is divided into ninechapters to facilitate viewing at dentalteam meetings or study clubs. Otherinstructional materials found in this issuesupport the DVD.
GDA member dentists and CORPSmember dental hygienists who view thisDVD can earn two clinical CE creditsat no charge. Please consult theaccompanying CE test / evaluation onpage 21. Note that the test can be donein a written format and faxed to the GDAoffice at (404) 633-3943 or can be takenonline at the GDA web site www.gaden-tal.org. This professional developmentopportunity is worth noting given theupcoming December 31 state licensurerenewal deadline.
It Takes a Team to Build a Dental Home
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The GDA Dental Home Init iat ive DVD is inserted in thisissue of GDA Action. Please utilize the following information inconjunction with the viewing of the DVD. After completingboth portions of this course, you may complete the CEevaluation and submit the written test to the GDA office viafax at (404) 633-3943 or email at [email protected], you may go to the GDA web site www.gadental.org tocomplete the test online.
The GDA office will fax or email you documentation of courseparticipation (2 CEUs) upon completion. The Georgia DentalAssociation is an ADA CERP recognized provider.
Course DescriptionThis course will provide a history of the dental home concept,explore the mission of the GDA Dental Home Initiative, offertips for integrating the dental home concept into a general dentalpractice, and introduce the caries risk assessment approach for usewith pediatric patients in a general dental practice.
Course ObjectivesAt the end of this course (after viewing the DVD and readingthe information below), the general dentist and his / her teamshould be:
• Confident in welcoming very young patients and their parentsinto the general dental practice
• Feel comfortable examining and providing basic oral health careand treatment needs to very young patients
• Know how to perform a knee-to-knee exam
The MissionThe Georgia Dental Association defines a dental home as: theongoing relationship between the dentist who is the primary dentalcare provider and the patient, which includes comprehensive oralhealth care beginning no later than age one in a continuouslyaccessible, coordinated, and family-centered way.
The long-term goal of the GDA Dental Home Initiativeis to give every child in Georgia access to a dental home byage one.
In 2007, the Centers for Disease Control and Preventionannounced most Americans’ oral health was improving. Thecomprehensive, national assessment compared the years1988-1994 with 1999-2004 and noted caries incidence decreasedand dental sealant presence increased significantly in thepermanent teeth of children ages 6 to 19. Moderate to severeperiodontal disease dropped substantially in adults of all ages,while 20 percent fewer seniors are edentulous.
While dentistry clearly improved the lives of most Americansduring the past two decades, there was a notable increase indisease rates among young children. Tooth decay in the primaryteeth of two to five-year olds reportedly increased from 24 to28 percent.
The dental home concept emerged over the past decadefollowing inception of the “medical home” by physicians in theearly 1990s. Dental home advocacy statements were issued by theAmerican Academy of Pediatric Dentistry in 2001, AmericanAcademy of Pediatrics in 2003, and the American DentalAssociation in 2005. These proposals called for establishinga dental home for every child by age one where the dentistdetermines ongoing, comprehensive care, including dental andsoft tissue examinations, caries risk assessment, anticipatoryguidance (i.e., preventive recommendations), and necessarytreatment.
Unfortunately, physicians often have difficulty referringpatients to a dentist for care at this age, because many generaldental practices do not regularly examine patients under age three.The result is that examinations and preventive treatments withfluoride varnishes are delivered in well-baby clinics byphysicians and nurse practitioners. These programs, whilewell-intentioned, fall far short of comprehensive examination,diagnosis, and treatment in a dental home by a licensed dentist.
The General Dental Practice and One-Year Olds
Welcoming Very Young Children
• Schedule 15-30 minutes of dentist time for the infant exam.Time needed for this portion of the infant appointment maylessen as the dentist becomes more familiar with these procedures.
—The nonclinical portion of the caries risk assessment can becompleted by staff before the dentist sees the child. (Dental HomeDVD Chapter 3)
—With experience, the knee-to-knee examination and clinicalportion of the caries risk assessment can be completed in abouttwo minutes. (Dental Home DVD Chapter 4)
—An additional minute can be used by the dentist to disclose thechild’s teeth and perform a tooth-cleaning demonstration. (DentalHome DVD Chapter 4)
—The caries risk assessment will determine if fluoride varnish isnecessary. (Consult the information from the American Academyof Pediatric Dentistry which can be found on the GDA web site,www.gadental.org, or in the October issue of GDA Action.) Oneminute is needed for the varnish application. (Dental Home DVDChapter 4)
—Most of the time allotted for the infant exam is used to discussage-appropriate information with the parent (anticipatory
GDA Dental Home Initiative:Viewing Your DVD
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guidance) and answer questions. Oral hygiene literature andsupplies can be given to the parent to take home. (Dental HomeDVD Chapter 5)
• Knee-to-knee exams can be accomplished with existing equip-ment and in small operatories by having the parent sit sidewaysin the exam chair.
• Explain to the parent prior to examination that crying is normal,expected, and even helpful. Crying makes it easier to examinethe teeth, tongue, and lips.
• Consider scheduling two or more one-year-old appointments ina row to help the dentist and dental team focus on the needs ofthe very young, their parents, and families.
• Keep waiting time for very young children and their parents to aminimum.
• A LED flashlight is a helpful knee-to-knee exam tool.
• Time between recall appointments will vary depending onexam results and caries risk assessment. (Dental Home DVDChapter 5)
Benefiting Your Patients
• Prevention is a core precept in the delivery of oral health care.Taking preventive measures on behalf of very young children willhave positive, lifelong dental health benefits.
• Early detection of caries risk and decay by a dentist at therelatively inexpensive one-year-old exam can avert seriousconsequences for patients and provide long-term financialsavings for families and insurance programs, both privateand public.
• This is an excellent opportunity to educate mothers-to-be andparents about the importance of good dietary habits and dailyoral hygiene practices for all family members.
• Providing professional dental exams to the youngest patients is anational, professional standard.
Building Your Practice
• The one-year-old exam repositions the dentist as the source fororal health information, a role often filled today by pediatricians,public health personnel, physician assistants, and nurses.
• Promote the importance and value of a professional exam in afamily-centered, long-term dental home when faced with par-ents’ questions about paying for a one-year-old exam.
• Use procedure code D0145 in the diagnostic section of theADA’s Current Dental Terminology manual for diagnostic and
preventive services provided to a child under age three. Thisincludes oral and physical health histories, caries risk assessment,identification and development of the appropriate oral healthregimen, and counseling and communications with the child’sparent, legal guardian, or primary caregiver.
• Other services (i.e., application of fluoride varnish, prophylaxis,radiographs, glass ionomer restoration) are billed separatelyusing the appropriate CDT codes.
• Welcoming all family members, including the youngest child,into your general dental practice helps build patients’ long-termloyalty. It also positions your practice as progressive andgenerates referrals.
The Georgia Dental Association purchased the rights to the DentalHome Initiative from the Wisconsin Dental Association. Allmaterials are copyrighted. Questions about the written portion ofthis course or the DVD should be directed to Nelda Greene at theGDA Executive Office at (800) 432-4357 or [email protected].
VIEWING DVDContinued from page 19
A question often asked by new parents is, “When should mychild first see a dentist?” The short answer, “first visit by firstbirthday,” is one both pediatric dentists and pediatriciansagree on. This early first visit is especially important forthose children at high risk for tooth decay. The followingis a method of performing an oral health assessmentfor infants and toddlers: 1—Perform a visual screeningutilizing the knee-to-knee method (as photographed above);2—Determine risk; and 3—Develop preventive and/ortreatment plan recommendations.
GDA member dentists and CORPS member dental hygienistswho view the attached DVD can earn two clinical CE creditsat no charge. Note that the CE evaluation on page 21 can bedone in a written format and faxed to the GDA office at (404)633-3943 or can be taken online at the GDA web sitewww.gadental.org (where the DVD content is also avail-able as streaming video). Dentists must log in as GDAmembers to access the online evaluation and video. CORPSmember dental hygienists should contact the GDA office at(404) 636-7553 to obtain a password to access the evaluationand video.
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EVALUATION: These questions test your knowledge regarding infantand toddler oral health. Please carefully circle the correct answer:
1. The concept of a dental home includes seeing children at whatage for their first dental visit?a. 3 years b. 2 years c. 1 year d. 5 years
2. Which organizations have embraced the concept of a dentalhome?a. American Dental Associationb. American Academy of Pediatric Dentistryc. American Academy of Pediatricsd. Georgia Dental Associatione. All of the above.
3. During the past several decades, the prevalence of dental cariesin children younger than 5 years old has been:a. Decreasing b. The Same c. Increasing
4. White line lesions are the earliest sign of caries development.a. True b. False
5. The most likely source for a child to be infected with cavity-causing bacteria is from his or her:a. Neighbor b. Father c. Mother d. Siblings
6. The initial dental exam for a one-year-old should include:a. Reviewing the child’s medical historyb. Reviewing the child’s dental historyc. Completing a caries risk assessmentd. All of the above
7. Completing and implementing a caries risk assessment helps to:a. Increase paper work for your dental teamb. Develop an individualized preventive plan for each patientc. Decrease the incidence of early childhood cariesd. b and c
8. One of the best ways to examine a young child’s teeth is to:a. Have the child sit in the dental chair like an adultb. Wait until the child is old enough to cooperate fullyc. Have your assistant restrain the childd. Have the child sit in his/her caregiver’s lap and do
a knee-to-knee exam
9. After completing the knee-to-knee exam and the caries riskassessment, the process of developing and recommending an educational and preventive plan for each patient is called“anticipatory guidance.”a. True b. False
10. Anticipatory guidance can include:a. Oral hygiene and appropriate fluoride recommendationsb. Discussing non-nutritive sucking habitsc. Discussing diet and feeding practices including the use of bottles,
sippy cups, and breast feeding on demandd. Injury prevention and counselinge. All of the above
11. The recommended clinical treatment for white line lesions is:a. Application of a fluoride varnish and close monitoring of the situationb. Removing the lesions with a high-speed handpiece
and placing a composite resin restorationc. Re-evaluate in 6 to 12 monthsd. Referral to a pediatric dentist for treatment under general anesthesia
12. If a child has one or two small cavitated lesions, use of InterimTherapeutic Restorations is an appropriate treatment method.a. True b. False
13. It may be appropriate to delay dental treatment due to a child’sbehavior when:a. The dental treatment needed is not urgentb. The dental treatment is related to trauma or an infectionc. The child’s behavior is expected to improve
in the foreseeable futured. a and c
14. Counseling parents about their child’s dental needs is bestaccomplished:a. Once the child is 3 years oldb. After a dental problem is notedc. Before the child is bornd. At a sibling’s soccer game
15. Children born to mothers with a high level of cariogenic bacteriaare 10 times more likely to develop dental caries than thoseborn to mothers with a low level of cariogenic bacteria.a. True b. False
16. The concept of the “dental home” will be:a. Evolving as new science extends our knowledge
about prevention and early childhood cariesb. Important for every dentist to embrace and
integrate into their practicec. A major step in the battle against dental problems
for our youngest, most susceptible patientsd. All of the above
PERSONAL INFORMATION: Please print legibly so that your documentation of participation can beforwarded to you:
Dentist’s / Hygienist’s Name
Date
Email Address
Fax Number
Dentist’s / Hygienist’s Signature
GDA Dental Home—Continuing Education Evaluation Form
You are eligible to earn two hours of continuingeducation credit for time spent viewing theDVD that is inserted in this issue of GDAAction, studying the information presentedon pages 19-20 in this issue, and then takingthe test below or online at www.gadental.orgin the Member’s Only Section.
If taking the printed test below,please complete the personal informationsection so that your completion verificationdocumentation can be sent to you. You mayfax the completed test to (404) 633-3943 oremail it to [email protected], or go onlineto www.gadental.org to complete the evaluation.
Your verification of participation will beemailed or faxed to you upon completion.GDA member dentists and CORPS memberdental hygienists are eligible to participate inthis opportunity.
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2009-10 STATE OFFICERS 2009-2010 BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Kent H. Percy, DDSPRESIDENT1000 Whitlock Avenue NWSuite 380Marietta GA 30064Phone (770) 425-4748Fax (770) [email protected]
Jay F. Harrington Jr., DDSPRESIDENT ELECT645 West Thomas StreetMilledgeville GA 31061Phone (478) 453-8666Fax (478) [email protected]
James B. Hall III, DDS, MSSECRETARY / TREASURERTerm Expires Summer 2014160 Pierce AvenueMacon GA 31204Phone (478) 743-0901Fax (478) [email protected]
Jonathan S. Dubin, DMDEDITORTerm Expires Summer 20122970 Clairmont Road NESuite 195Atlanta GA 30329Phone (404) 636-2763Fax (404) [email protected]
Michael O. Vernon, DMDVICE PRESIDENT1218 Augusta West ParkwayAugusta GA 30909Phone (706) 860-0518Fax (706) [email protected]
Past PresidentDr. Mark RitzPhone (912) 487-5271Fax (912) [email protected]
Speaker of the House Dr. Kent SimmonsPhone (229) 883-1306Fax (229) [email protected]
TRUSTEES
CDDS Dr. Mike Loden (7/12)Phone (478) 923-0253Fax (478) [email protected]
EDDS Dr. Erik Wells (7/11)Phone (706) 548-7373Fax (706) [email protected]
NDDS Dr. Richard Weinman (7/12)Phone (404) 266-1300Fax (404) [email protected]
NWDDS Dr. Robin Reich (7/10)Phone (770) 435-5450Fax (770) [email protected]
SEDDS Dr. Byron Colley (7/11)Phone (912) 355-5901 Fax (912) [email protected]
SWDDS Dr. Steve Sample (7/12)Phone (229) 439-8896Fax (229) [email protected]
WDDS Dr. Robert Carpenter Jr.(7/10)Phone (706) 660-9848Fax (706) [email protected]
PRESIDENTS ELECT
CDDS Dr. Kara MoorePhone (478) 986-6821Fax (478) [email protected]
EDDS Dr. Grant LooPhone (706) 868-1722Fax (706) [email protected]
NDDS Dr. Jeff KendrickPhone (770) 460-9795Fax (770) [email protected]
NWDDS Dr. Terry O’SheaPhone (770) 974-4146Fax (770) [email protected]
SEDDS Dr. Mark DusekPhone (912) 355-7022Fax (912) [email protected]
SWDDS Dr. Jeff SingletonPhone (229) 432-6751Fax (229) [email protected]
WDDS Dr. Jay HarrisPhone (706) 324-5627Fax (706) [email protected]
GDA State Officers, plus:
Front row: Drs. Harrington, Hall, Weinman, Kendrick.Second row: Drs. Ritz, Reich, Harris, Percy. Thirdrow: Drs. Dubin, Loo, Wells. Back row: Drs. Singleton,Loden, Simmons, O’Shea.
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2009-2010 HOUSE OF DELEGATES
CDDS DelegatesDr. Paul FraysureDr. Roy LehrmanDr. Kendrick MathewsDr. Craig McCrobaDr. Alfred Peters
CDDS AlternatesDr. Shirley FisherDr. Lindsay HollidayDr. Deena Holliman SmithDr. Amy LodenDr. Mike Loden
EDDS DelegatesDr. Andy AllgoodDr. John BlalockDr. David BrownDr. Celia DunnDr. Brian HallDr. Carole HanesDr. David PerryDr. Annette Rainge
EDDS AlternatesDr. Greg GriffinDr. Tradd HarterDr. Gary HolmesDr. Scott LeggioDr. Grant LooDr. Rhoda SwordDr. Barbara UtermarkDr. Erik Wells
NDDS DelegatesDr. Chris AdkinsDr. Daren BeckerDr. Brian CarpenterDr. Chris ChildsDr. Max FergusonDr. Tom FieldDr. James Granade Jr.Dr. Brad GreenwayDr. Kathy HuberDr. Tom JagorDr. Ben Jernigan Jr.Dr. Don JohnsonDr. Jeff KendrickDr. Paul KudybaDr. Roy McDonaldDr. Bob O’DonnellDr. David Pumphrey
Dr. David RemaleyDr. Richard SmithDr. Douglas TorbushDr. Richard WeinmanDr. Marvin WinterDr. Carol Wolff
NDDS AlternatesDr. Evis BaboDr. Chuck BarberDr. Donald BrownDr. Randy DanielDr. James DoughertyDr. Jonathan DubinDr. Marilyn GaylorDr. Hank GobleDr. Vivian HudsonDr. Joe LooperDr. Barry MarcumDr. Greg MarksDr. Matt MazzawiDr. John MuseDr. Grady ParrishDr. Heather PerryDr. Randy PhillipsDr. Zack PowellDr. Troy SchulmanDr. Wayne TadsenDr. Sidney TourialDr. Victor Van GreunigenDr. Becky Weinman
NWDDS DelegatesDr. Bruce CampDr. Celeste CogginDr. Nelson CongerDr. David DrewDr. Stan HalpernDr. Jim HutsonDr. Howard JonesDr. Ben KnaakDr. Terry O’SheaDr. Jason OylerDr. Robin ReichDr. Wilkie Stadeker
NWDDS AlternatesDr. Jack BickfordDr. Hank BradfordDr. Narisa GoodeDr. Elizabeth LewisDr. Stuart Loos
Dr. Dave MasonDr. Wendy MitchellDr. Todd MullikinDr. Jim RoosDr. Peter ShatzDr. Karyn StockwellDr. Jason Young
SEDDS DelegatesDr. Mark DusekDr. Jennifer HallDr. Sam NorrisDr. Matt RosenthalDr. Larry Schmitz
SEDDS AlternatesDr. Jay McCaslin VIDr. Richard ThomasDr. Bob VaughtDr. John Wasdin
SWDDS DelegatesDr. Keith CrummeyDr. Chris HastyDr. Amanda MerrittDr. Steve SampleDr. Jeff Singleton
SWDDS AlternatesDr. Brad AdamsDr. Larry BlackDr. Brent DeptaDr. Mike McCartneyDr. Jay Phillips
WDDS DelegatesDr. George ChildressDr. David FagundesDr. Mark Lawrence
WDDS AlternatesDr. Robert CarpenterDr. Jay HarrisDr. Jeff Serff
ASDA Delegate (MCG)Paul Trotter
ASDA Alternate (MCG)William Bennett
These are the representatives for the July 2009 and January 2010 House of Delegates.The Winter 2010 meeting is Sunday, January 10, at 9 a.m. at the Atlanta MarriottPerimeter Center (new location). The Summer 2010 meeting is Thursday, July 22, atThe Ritz-Carlton in Amelia Island, Florida.
GDHC / GDIS / PDRSBOARDSDates after each name = end ofperson’s term.
Georgia Dental Holding Company(GDHC)* Dr. Jim Hall, Chairman (C), 8/12Phone (478) 743-0901Fax (478) [email protected]. Brian Hall (E), 8/10Dr. Suhayl Rafeedie (N), 8/12Dr. Howard Jones (NW), 8/10Dr. Leon Aronson (SE), 8/11Dr. Hank Cook (SW), 8/11Dr. Doug Kersey (W), 8/12
Georgia Dental Insurance Services, Inc.(GDIS)Dr. John Ferguson, Chairman (C), 8/12Phone (478) 453-3445Fax (478) [email protected]. Jim Moncrief (E), 8/10Dr. Jim Granade Jr. (N), 8/12Dr. Pete Trager (NW), 8/10Dr. Bob Vaught (SE), 8/11Dr. Bill Bennett (SW), 8/11Dr. Jennifer Bass (W), 8/12
Professional Debt Recovery Services, Inc.(PDRS)Dr. Edward Green, Chairman (SW), 11/11Phone (229) 883-3071Fax (229) [email protected]. Steve McLain (C), 11/09Dr. Celia Dunn (E), 11/09Dr. Roy McDonald (N), 11/10Dr. David Drew (NW), 11/10Dr. Doug Giorgio (SE), 11/10Dr. Dwight McLaurin (W), 11/11
* GDA owns GDHC. GDHC is
the shareholder for GDA
subsidiaries GDIS and PDRS.
GDHC reviews and approves
subsidiary budgets, policies,
borrowing, dividends, and
other matters, and performs
administrative functions for
the subsidiaries.
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DENTAL CONTACTSAMERICAN DENTAL ASSOCIATIONToll Free (800) 621-8099www.ada.org Catalog (800) 947-4746www.adacatalog.com
PRACTICE GROUPSAcademy of General DentistryPhone (888) 243-3368www.agd.orgGeorgia AGDPhone (404) 299-7987www.gagd.org
American Assn of EndodontistsPhone (800) 872-3636www.aae.org
American Assn of Oral &Maxillofacial SurgeonsPhone (800) 822-6637www.aaoms.orgGeorgia Society of Oral &Maxillofacial SurgeonsPhone (877) 726-7017www.ga-oms.org
American Academy of Oral& Maxillofacial PathologyPhone (888) 552-2667www.aaomp.org
American Academy of Oral& Maxillofacial RadiologyPhone (706) 721-2883www.aaomr.org
American Assn of OrthodontistsPhone (314) 993-1700www.aaomembers.orgGeorgia Assn of Orthodontistswww.gaortho.org
American Academy ofPediatric DentistryPhone (312) 337-2169www.aapd.org
American Academy of PeriodontologyPhone (312) 787-5518www.perio.org
American College of ProsthodontistsPhone (312) 573-1260www.prosthodontics.org
STAFF/LAB GROUPSAmerican Dental Assistants AssnPhone (312) 541-1550www.dentalassistant.orgDental Assisting National BoardPhone (800) 367-3262www.danb.org
American DentalHygienists’ AssnPhone (312) 440-8900www.adha.orgADHA Georgia Chapterwww.gdha.org
National Assn of Dental LaboratoriesPhone (800) 950-1150www.nadl.org
MEMBERSHIP GROUPSAmerican Collegeof DentistsPhone (301) 977-3223www.acd.org
Hinman Dental SocietyMarch 25-27, 2010Phone (404) 231-1663www.hinman.org
International College of DentistsPhone (301) 251-8861www.icd.org
National DentalAssociationPhone (202) 588-1697www.ndaonline.orgGeorgia Dental SocietyPhone (770) 471-9400www.georgiadentalsociety.org
Pierre Fauchard AcademyPhone (800) 232-0099www.fauchard.org
FEDERAL AGENCIESAmericans with Disabilities ActPhone (800) 514-0301www.ada.gov
Centers for Disease Control & PreventionPhone (800) 232-4636www.cdc.gov
Department of LaborPhone (866) 487-2365 www.dol.gov
Drug Enforcement AgencyPhone (800) 882-9539 www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov
Federal Trade CommissionPhone (877) 382-4357www.ftc.gov
Food & DrugAdministrationPhone (888) 463-6332www.fda.gov
Health InsurancePortability & AccountabilityAct (HIPAA)www.hhs.gov/ocr/privacy
Occupational Safety & Health AdministrationEmergency Phone (800) 321-6742www.osha.govRegional / Field Offices:Atlanta SE Regional (404) 562-2300Atlanta East (770) 493-6644Atlanta West (770) 984-8700Savannah (912) 652-4393
National Provider Identifier (NPI)Phone (800) 465-3203https://nppes.cms.hhs.gov/NPPES/Welcome.do
STATE AGENCIESGeorgia Board of DentistryPhone (478) 207-2440http://sos.georgia.gov/plb/dentistry
Board MembersDr. Clyde Andrews Jr. (8/12)Phone (912) 352-2289
Pamela Bush, RDH (6/10)Dental Hygiene Member
Dr. Rebecca Bays Carlon (3/09)Phone (229) 883-1123
Dr. Clark Carroll (8/11)Phone (478) 374-7184
Dr. Henry Cook Sr. (8/10)Phone (706) 663-4348
Dr. Thomas Godfrey (8/09)Phone (404) 233-3252
Dr. Isaac Hadley (1/13)Phone (706) 689-2905
Dr. Stephan Holcomb (1/13)Phone (478) 922-4922
Dr. Logan Nalley Jr. (8/13)Phone (706) 733-8641
Elaine Richardson (6/11)Consumer Member
Dr. Barry Stacey (3/09)Phone (770) 429-5507
Board of PharmacyDispensing dentist permitsPhone (478) 207-2440http://sos.georgia.gov/plb/pharmacy
Department of LaborPhone (404) 232-7300www.dol.state.ga.us
Department of RevenuePhone (404) 417-4477Phone (877) 602-8477www.etax.dor.ga.gov
Drugs & Narcotics AgencyPhone (404) 656-5100Phone (800) 656-6568http://gdna.georgia.gov
Environmental Protection DivisionPhone (888) 373-5947Emergencies (800) 241-4113www.gaepd.org
Georgia allows an exemptionfor dental offices generatingless than 100 pounds permonth of biomedical waste.
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However, the decision to allowbiomedical waste disposal lieswith your local landfill or hauler.Disposal permission does notnecessarily absolve your liabilityif a problem arises. Place all sharpsin a rigid puncture-resistantcontainer tightly lidded andmarked with the biohazardlabel. Dentists may have thempicked up by a licensed medicalwaste hauler or mail them to thehauler in a special container.Another option is an approvedsystem like the “Isolyzer”system, which decontaminatesthe sharps and encases themin a solid. Those encased,decontaminated sharps can thenbe placed in the regular trash, ifyour trash hauler will allow it.Complete rule: www.gaepd.org/Files_PDF/rules/rules_exist/391-3-4.pdf. See Rule 391-3-4-.15.
Insurance CommissionerPhone (800) 656-2298 www.inscomm.state.ga.us
Medicaid / PeachCareGeorgia Families (www.georgia families.com), a partnershipbetween the Georgia Departmentof Community Health and theCare Management OrganizationsAmerigroup, Peach State, andWellCare, provides healthservices to many Medicaid andPeachCare for Kids recipients.The CMOs subcontract dentaladministration to Doral Dental(www.doralusa.com). ACS coversother Medicaid recipients, includingthe aged, blind, and disabled.Visit http://dch.georgia.gov formore information.
X-ray RegistrationOffice of RegulatoryServiceshttp://ors.dhr.georgia.gov(search for term x-ray)
Effective July 1, 2008, the stateOffice of Regulatory Services nolonger performs routine periodicsurveys of x-ray machines.ORS continues to perform initialstate registration surveys andshielding design reviews. Dueto the volume of requestsreceived and staffing, there maybe a delay in scheduling sur-veys. ORS recommends sub-mitting completed registrationapplications well in advance of
your intended operational date.Facilities may also contractwith a qualified physicist tocomplete the shielding designreview and initial on-site sur-vey. Once these reports aresubmitted to ORS they will bereviewed in support of yourapplication. Regardless ofwhether you choose ORS or aqualified physicist to performyour initial state registrationsurvey and shielding designreview, you cannot operate yourx-ray machines until the initialinspection is successful andyou receive a Georgia certificateof registration. If your insurerrequires that your x-raymachines have routine periodicinspections, you must arrangefor those privately with aqualified physicist. Reports ofany routine inspections shouldbe kept on file in your officebut will not be required to besubmitted to ORS.
DENTAL EDUCATIONMedical College of GeorgiaPhone (706) 721-2371www.mcg.edu
Fisher DentalEducation FoundationPhone (706) 235-2158www.gadental.org
DENTAL ASSISTING PROGRAMSAlbany Technical CollegePhone (229) 430-3543www.albanytech.edu
Athens Technical CollegePhone (706) 355-5142www.athenstech.edu
Atlanta Technical CollegePhone (404) 225-4557www.atlantatech.edu
Augusta Technical CollegePhone (706) 771-4178www.augustatech.edu
Columbus Technical CollegePhone (706) 649-1979www.columbustech.edu
Georgia NorthwesternTechnical CollegePhone (770) 684-3128www.gntc.edu
Griffin Technical CollegePhone (770) 229-3136www.griffintech.edu
Gwinnett Technical CollegePhone (770) 962-7580www.gwinnetttech.edu
Lanier Technical CollegePhone (770) 531-6370www.laniertech.edu
Medix School (Smyrna)Phone (770) 980-0002www.medixschool.edu
Middle Georgia Technical CollegePhone (478) 988-6800 x-4026www.middlegatech.edu
Ogeechee Technical CollegePhone (912) 486-7700www.ogeecheetech.edu
Savannah Technical CollegePhone (912) 443-5812www.savannahtech.edu
Valdosta Technical CollegePhone (229) 259-5533www.valdostatech.edu
West Georgia TechnicalCollegePhone (678) 423-2000 x248www.westgatech.edu
DENTAL HYGIENE PROGRAMSArmstrong Atlantic State UniversityPhone (912) 344-2585www.armstrong.edu
Athens Technical CollegePhone (706) 355-5142www.athenstech.edu
Central Georgia Technical CollegePhone (478) 757-3487www.centralgatech.edu
Clayton State UniversityPhone (678) 466-4911www.clayton.edu
Columbus Technical CollegePhone (706) 649-1977www.columbustech.edu
Darton College (Albany)Phone (229) 317-6840www.darton.edu
Georgia Highlands CollegePhone (706) 204-2250www.highlands.edu
Georgia Perimeter CollegePhone (770) 274-5131www.gpc.edu
Lanier Technical CollegePhone (770) 535-6905www.laniertech.edu
Medical College of GeorgiaPhone (706) 721-2938www.mcg.edu
Middle GeorgiaTechnical CollegePhone (478) 988-6800 x-4024www.middlegatech.edu
Southeastern Technical CollegePhone (912) 538-3210www.southeasterntech.edu
Valdosta Technical CollegePhone (229) 259-5534www.valdostatech.edu
West Georgia Technical CollegePhone (770) 947-7220www.westgatech.edu
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EXECUTIVE OFFICE STAFFGeorgia Dental Association7000 Peachtree Dunwoody RoadSuite 200 Building 17Atlanta, GA 30328Phone (800) 432-4357 Phone: (404) 636-7553Fax: (404) 633-3943www.gadental.org
Georgia Dental Insurance Services (GDIS)Address/Phone as AboveInsurance Fax: (404) 634-6099
Professional Debt Recovery Services (PDRS)7000 Peachtree Dunwoody RoadSuite 120 Building 17Atlanta, GA 30328Phone (866) 502-7377Phone (678) 405-3983Fax: (678) 405-3986www.prodebtrecovery.com
Martha S. PhillipsGDA Executive [email protected] Cell: (404) 317-6090
Annual Meeting (venue negotiations); Executiveoffice and staff management; GDIS, GDHC,PDRS CEO; GDA lobbyist; Committees (ADA
Delegation / Governmental Affairs); GADPAC; GDA officer support;ADA Fifth District liaison; Southern Leadership Conference liaison.
Nelda H. GreeneGDA Associate Executive [email protected]
Annual Meeting (Hospitality / Kickoff Breakfast /Memories Presentation / T-Shirts / VolunteerParty); CERP accreditation; CORPS dentalhygiene school visits; Committees (CE Liaison /
Council on Dental Health / Public Relations / Specialty GroupsLiaison); Developmental disabilities advocacy groups liaison; GDIS /PDRS marketing; Give Kids A Smile Day support; LAW Program; MCGTransition Program; Media requests; OSHA questions; Oral HealthCoalition liaison; Partnership for Caring board member; Pressreleases; Public health liaison; Spokesperson Training program; Studyclub CE; Task Forces (Improve Annual Meeting).
Lisa ChandlerGDA Director of Member [email protected]
Annual Meeting (Exhibit Hall Booth Sales /Onsite Support); Action advertising; Committees(Membership Services / Workforce / DirectReimbursement Liaison); CORPS membership
records; Medicaid / PeachCare issues; Patient complaints; Thirdparty issues.
Delaine HallGDA Director of [email protected]
Action managing editor; Alliance of the GDA;Annual Meeting (Awards and Installation Breakfast/ Children’s Programs / GDA Information Café /Program / Registration Materials / Signs);
Committees (Awards / Forensic Dentistry / Information Technology);GDA web site; Task Forces (Fisher Dental Education Foundation).
Skip JonesPDRS Director of [email protected]
Annual Meeting (Family Fun Night); Conductcollections efforts; Direct PDRS businessperformance, marketing efforts, and personnel;Give presentations on PDRS services;
Represent PDRS at shows and meetings.
Barbara KaulGDIS Property & Casualty Accounts [email protected]
Annual Meeting (GDIS Booth); GDIS coverageenrollment / renewals / policy questions forProfessional liability, Business owners’, Lessors’
risk, Builders’ risk, Workers’ compensation, and ERISA bonds.
Courtney LayfieldGDA Director of Administrative [email protected]
Annual Meeting (AV / Door Prizes / President’sDinner); Assist Executive Director; Committees(ADA Delegation / Governmental Affairs);Contact Dentists; District Services Liaison;
GADPAC records; GDA calendar; Mailing lists; Meetingarrangements (ADA Annual Session / ADA Grassroots Conference /Fifth Trustee District and SLC conferences / GDA PresidentsElect Conference / Washington Leadership Conference);Secondary phone pickup in executive office; Reports for Board ofTrustees and House of Delegates; Special Olympics; TaskForces (M.O.M).
Victoria LeMaireGDIS Medical Accounts [email protected]
Annual Meeting (GDIS Booth); Manage billing /payment postings for medical plan; Handlebenefit / policy questions for medical plan; Annualrenewal / new member enrollment / member
status changes for medical plan; Phone backup / overflow.
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Melana Kopman McClatcheyGDA General Counsel [email protected]
Action topical articles; Annual Meeting (ClinicalProgram / Tours); Committees (Constitution andBylaws / Peer Review / Wastewater and BMPLiaison); Contract reviews (GDA / GDHC / GDIS /
PDRS); Dental Recovery Network support; HIPAA; Monitor Board ofDentistry meetings; Review legislative bills and position papers; TaskForces (Bioterrorism / Encourage Member Involvement).
Denis MuchaGDIS Director of [email protected]
Annual Meeting (Fishing / Fun Run / GDIS Booth /Golf Tournament / Tennis Tournament); Conductpresentations on GDIS services; Direct GDISbusiness performance through sales and service
of product lines; MCG Transition Program; Manage GDIS personnel;Review / procure all GDIS endorsed products and benefits(Malpractice, Major Medical, Liability, Disability, Property / Casualty,Long Term Care, Life, Overhead).
Phyllis WillichGDA Administrative [email protected]
AV coordinator; Annual Meeting (President’sscrapbook / Pre-registration); Conference callcoordinator; Expanded Duties program; GDAbuilding maintenance issues; Gabby costume
rental; Maintain assisting / front office / hygiene employmentlists; Membership database updates; Primary phone pickup inexecutive office.
Pamela YungkGDA Director of Finance & Membership Services [email protected]
Accounting (GDA / GDHC / GDIS / PDRS / GADPAC);Annual Meeting (Billing / Pre-Registration /Registration / Reservations / Tickets); Attend ADA
Membership Conference; Committees (Finance / Recruitment &Retention); Committee and Task Force budgeting; Coordinateannual audits; GDA membership dues and membership records;MCG Transition program; MCG Table Clinic liaison; MCG student andresidency liaison; Personnel and company taxes; Relief and Necrologyprogram support.
Bank of America World Points MasterCardPhone (866) 438-6262 (Code UAA4BG)
Bank of America Practice Financing(800) 491-3623https://www.bankofamerica.com/smallbusiness/index.jsp
CareCredit Payment PlansPhone (800) 800-5110www.carecreditworks.com
The Dental Record Recordkeeping SystemPhone (800) 243-4675www.dentalrecord.com
Georgia Dental Insurance Services (GDIS)Phones (800) 432-4357 and (404) 636-7553Fax (404) 634-6099www.gadental.org
Lands End Practice ApparelPhone (800) 990-5407http://ocs.landsend.com/OCS/ada/ada.html
LifeLock Identity Theft Protectionwww.lifelockgda.com
Pitney Bowes Postage MetersPhone (877) 562-4500www.pbmailstation.com/ada
Professional Debt Recovery Services (PDRS)Phones (866) 502-7377 and (678) 405-3983Fax (678) 405-3986www.prodebtrecovery.com
Sure Payroll ServicesPhone (866) 535-3592www.surepayroll.com/ada
Tel-A-Patient Automated Appointment ConfirmationsPhone (800) 553-7373www.telapatient.com
TransFirst Credit Card ProcessingPhone (800) 577-8573www.transfirst.com
UBS Financial Services / Wealth ManagementPhone (800) 234-9928www.gadental.org
ENDORSED SERVICES
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2009-2010 COMMITTEES
ADA DELEGATIONSee page 32. Staff supportMartha Phillips / CourtneyLayfield.
ANNUAL MEETINGJuly 22-25, 2010, The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island,Amelia Island, FL
Dr. Jack Bickford (NW)General Chairman Phone (770) 445-6606Fax (770) [email protected]
Mrs. Linda BroderickAlliance Liaison
Dr. Donna Thomas Moses (NW)Awards & Installation Breakfast
Dr. Chris Shim (NW)Bike Riding
Dr. Ty Ivey (C)Bird Watching Tour
Dr. Jay McCaslin VI (SE)Children’s Program
Dr. Jimmy Cassidy (C)Clinical Program (CE)
Dr. Edward Paris (W)Door Prizes
Dr. Mike Loden (C)Exhibit Hall
Dr. Robert Moss (SW)Exhibit Hall Kid’s Events
Dr. Jeff Singleton (SW)Fishing
Dr. Stuart Loos (NW)Friday Fun Night
Dr. Shirley Fisher (C)Fun Run
Dr. Bill Argo (C)Golf Tournament
Dr. Jimmy Talbot (NW)Hospitality
Dr. David Fagundes (W)Kayaking
Dr. Jim Reynierson (E)Kickoff Breakfast
Dr. Jonathan Dubin (N)Memories Presentation
Dr. Karyn Stockwell (NW)Registration
Dr. Troy Schulman (N)President’s Dinner
Dr. Jim Dougherty (N)Signage
Dr. Doug Torbush (N)Tennis Tournament
Dr. Brent Depta (SW)Tickets
Dr. Becky Weinman (N)Dr. Janine Bethea-Freihaut (NW)T-Shirts
Dr. Jay Cranford (SW)Tours
Dr. Bill Schroeder (N)Volunteers Party
AWARDSRecommends candidates for all GDA awards exceptPresidential Commendations.Staff Support: Delaine Hall.
Dr. Billy Jamerson (SE), ChairPhone (912) 232-6171Fax (912) [email protected]
Dr. Deena Holliman Smith (C)Dr. David Brown (E) Dr. Marvin Winter (N)Dr. Wade Diab (NW) Dr. Doug Giorgio (SE)Dr. Will Miles (SW) Dr. Ed Smith (W)
CONSTITUTION AND BYLAWSReviews or creates proposedamendments to the Constitution,Bylaws, and Policy Manual.Staff Support: Melana McClatchey.
Dr. Celia Dunn (E), Chair Phone (706) 650-9700Fax (706) [email protected]
Dr. John Kuo (C)Dr. Jim Moncrief (E) Dr. Bob O’Donnell (N)Dr. Ted Harless (NW) Dr. Larry Miller (SE)Dr. Dan Carlon (SW) Dr. Nancy Gallagher (W)
COUNCIL ON DENTAL HEALTH Endeavors to improve the oralhealth of Georgians by addressingprograms concerning dentalservices. Staff Support: NeldaGreene.
Dr. Byron Colley (SE), Chair Phone (912) 355-5901Fax (912) [email protected]
Dr. Shirley Fisher (C)Dr. Scott Leggio (E) Dr. Heather Perry (N)Dr. Casey Hart (NW) Dr. Stephanie Skinner (SE)Dr. James Knighton (SW) Dr. Albert Lugo (W)NCDHM Liaison: Dr. JenniferWells (E) Fluoridation Liaison: Dr.Elizabeth Lense (N)
FINANCEPrepares an annual budget andis responsible for GDA invest-ments and endorsements. StaffSupport: Pamela Yungk.
Dr. Jay Phillips (SW), Chair Phone (229) 382-8711Fax (229) [email protected]
Dr. Kendrick Mathews (C)Dr. Erik Wells (E) Dr. Tom Jagor (N)Dr. Marshall Mann (NW) Dr. Julie Ann Routhier (SE)Dr. Jay Phillips (SW) Dr. Cathy Cook (W)
FORENSIC DENTISTRYResponds to situations whereforensic identification of victimsmay be necessary, among others.Staff support: Delaine Hall.
Dr. Tom David (NW), Chair Phone (770) 977-0364Fax (770) [email protected]
Dr. Ashley Walker (C)Dr. Gary Holmes (E) Dr. Tom Jagor (N)Dr. Jim Hutson (NW) Dr. Charles Fana (SE)Dr. Kent Simmons (SW) Dr. Jim Lopez (W)
GOVERNMENTALAFFAIRSMonitors legislation, takes anactive role in the legislativeprocess, and supports the ContactDentist, LAW Day, GADPAC,*and Grassroots programs. Staffsupport: Martha Phillips /Courtney Layfield.
Dr. Jack Bickford (NW), ChairPhone (770) 445-6606Fax (770) [email protected]
Dr. Bill Argo (C)Dr. Brian Hall (E) Dr. Brian Olsen (E)Dr. Troy Schulman (N) Dr. Ben Knaak (NW)Dr. Byron Colley (SE) Dr. Chris Hasty (SW)Dr. Robert Moss (SW)Dr. Edward Paris (W)Ex-Officio: Dr. Kent Percy (NW)At Large: Dr. Jay Harrington (C)At Large: Dr. Ty Ivey (C) At Large: Dr. Richard Weinman (N)At Large: Dr. Donna Thomas Moses (NW) Board of Dentistry Liaison: Dr. Don Benton (C) Contact Dentist Liaison: Dr. Bob Vaught (SE)Grassroots Liaison: Dr. Bruce Camp (NW)
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGYKeeps abreast of technologiesthat would benefit GDA membersand help the GDA executive officecontinue to operate efficiently.Staff support: Delaine Hall.
Dr. Erik Wells (E), ChairPhone (706) 548-7373Fax (706) [email protected]
Dr. Roy Lehrman (C)Dr. Erik Wells (E) Dr. Brian Carpenter (N)Dr. Elizabeth Lewis (NW) Dr. Richard Thomas (SE)Dr. Bonita Richter (SW) Dr. Jeff Serff (W)At Large: Dr. Jim Hall (C)
*GADPAC Board: Dr. Richard Weinman (N), Chairman, (404) 266-1300, [email protected]; Dr. Janine Bethea-Freihaut(Alliance); Dr. Paul Fraysure (C); Dr. David Perry (E); Dr. David Remaley (N); Dr. Jimmy Talbot (NW); Dr. Kevin Dickinson (SE);Dr. Robert Moss (SW); Dr. Henry Cook Sr. (W); At Large Drs. Ty Ivey (C); Bruce Camp (NW/Grassroots Liaison); Bob Vaught(SE/Contact Dentist Liaison); Don Benton (C/BOD Liaison); Jack Bickford (NW/Govt Affairs Chair); Ex-Officio Kent Percy(NW/President).
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MEMBERSHIP SERVICESCoordinates and reviews servicesto be provided to GDA members.Staff support: Lisa Chandler.
Dr. Becky Weinman (N), ChairPhone (404) 266-1300Fax (404) [email protected]
Dr. Kara Moore (C)Dr. Greg Griffin (E) Dr. Roy McDonald (N)Dr. Jason Young (NW) Dr. Kim Turner (SE)Dr. Amanda Merritt (SW) Dr. David Fagundes (W) CE Program Liaison: Dr.Celeste Coggin (NW)Dental Recovery NetworkLiaison: Dr. Mike Yarbrough (N)Direct Reimbursement Liaison:Dr. Jim Reynierson (E) Expanded Duties Liaison: Dr.Joe Hair (NW) Wastewater Liaison:Dr. Lindsay Holliday (C)
PEER REVIEW AND ETHICSInvestigates and mediatescomplaints concerning qualityof care and appropriateness oftreatment, and enforces a codeof professional standards. Staffsupport: Melana McClatchey.
Dr. Jim Roos (NW), Chair Phone (770) 434-5051Fax (770) [email protected]
Dr. Thomas Woodcock (C)Dr. Darryl Tom (E) Dr. Chris Adkins (N)Dr. Roy McDonald (N) Dr. Dave Mason (NW)Dr. Thomas Graham (SE) Dr. Parker Westbrook (SW)Dr. Bruce Boretsky (W) Ethics Liaison: Dr. JoeDufresne (NW)
PUBLIC RELATIONSPromotes a proper image ofdentistry to the public andassures good communicationbetween the GDA and otherorganizations and agencies.Staff support: Nelda Greene.
Dr. Robin Reich (NW), Chair Phone (770) 435-5450Fax (770) [email protected]
Dr. Lindsay Holliday (C)Dr. Andy Allgood (E) Dr. David Pumphrey (N)Dr. Richard Smith (N) Dr. Elizabeth Lewis (NW)
Dr. Jennifer Hall (SE) Dr. Larry Black (SW)Dr. John Scuba (W) Allied Personnel & SpecialtyLiaison: Dr. David Fagundes (W)MCG Faculty Liaison: Dr. JimReynierson (E)
RECRUITMENTAND RETENTIONMonitors the membership andoversees the New Dentist,Student Relations, Mentor, andRelief/Necrology programs.Staff support: Pamela Yungk.
Dr. Karyn Stockwell (NW), Chair Phone (770) 424-9292Fax (770) [email protected] Dr. Ched Smaha (C)Dr. Matthew Elder (E) Dr. Zach Powell (N)Dr. Wendy Mitchell (NW) Dr. Walker Pendarvis (SE)Dr. Keith Crummey (SW) Dr. Jeff Serff (W) MCG Student RelationsLiaison: Dr. Carole Hanes (E)Necrology ProgramCoordinator: Dr. RonnieWeathers (N) New Dentist Liaison: Dr. JasonYoung (NW)Residency Relations Liaison:Dr. Jan Mitchell (E)
WORKFORCEMonitors and reviews issuesrelated to the dental workforce.Staff support: Lisa Chandler.
Dr. Doug Torbush (N), Chair Phone (770) 922-1666Fax (770) [email protected]
Dr. Shirley Fisher (C)Dr. Erik Wells (E) Dr. Doug Torbush (N)Dr. David Drew (NW) Dr. Eric Gladden (SE)Dr. Jay Phillips (SW) Dr. Chris Harman (W)
TASK FORCESFormed at the request of theGDA President to accomplishspecific aims.
BioterrorismCommunications Dr. John Blalock (E), Chair Phone (706) 721-2811Fax (706) [email protected]
Dr. David Perry (E)
Encourage MemberInvolvementDr. Ben Jernigan (N), ChairPhone (404) 378-1466Fax (404) [email protected]
Dr. Roy Lehrman (C)Dr. Celia Dunn (E)Dr. Bruce Camp (NW)Dr. Ben Jernigan (N)Dr. Larry Schmitz (SE)Dr. Chris Hasty (SW)Dr. Matt Adams (W)
Fisher Dental Education FoundationDr. Jimmy Talbot (NW), Chair Phone (706) 635-5878Fax (706) [email protected]
Improve GDA Annual MeetingDr. Karyn Stockwell (NW), Chair (At Left)
Mission of Mercy Dr. Karyn Stockwell (NW), Chair (At Left)
To view the full Policy Manual
for each committee, visit
www.gadental.org.
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2009-2010 DISTRICT OFFICERS
CENTRAL DISTRICTPresident Dr. Roy LehrmanPhone (478) 453-9371Fax (478) [email protected]
President Elect Dr. Kara MoorePhone (478) 986-6821Fax (478) [email protected]
Vice President Dr. Alfred PetersPhone (478) 453-8464Fax (478) [email protected]
Secretary / Treasurer Dr. Don Benton Jr.Phone (478) 475-1980Fax (478) [email protected]
Editor Dr. Amy LeePhone (478) 757-5826Fax (478) [email protected]
Trustee Dr. Mike LodenPhone (478) 923-0253Fax (478) [email protected]
EASTERN DISTRICTPresident Dr. Celia DunnPhone (706) 650-9700Fax (706) [email protected]
President Elect Dr. Grant LooPhone (706) 868-1722Fax (706) [email protected]
Vice President Dr. Lee AndrewsPhone (706) 733-1182Fax (706) [email protected]
Secretary / Treasurer Dr. Carole HanesPhone (706) 721-2813Fax (706) [email protected]
Editor Dr. Rhoda SwordPhone (706) 860-3200Fax (706) [email protected]
Trustee Dr. Erik WellsPhone (706) 548-7373Fax (706) [email protected]
NORTHERN DISTRICTExecutive Office Hank Holderfield, Director4850 Golden PkwySte B-417Buford GA 30518Phone (770) 271-8743Fax (770) [email protected]
President Dr. Ben JerniganPhone (404) 378-1466Fax (404) [email protected]
President Elect Dr. Jeff KendrickPhone (770) 460-9795Fax (770) [email protected]
Vice President Dr. Doug TorbushPhone (770) 922-1666Fax (770) [email protected]
Secretary / Treasurer Dr. Tom JagorPhone (404) 256-2551Fax (404) [email protected]
Editor Dr. Matt MazzawiPhone (770) 972-4436Fax (770) [email protected]
Trustee Dr. Richard WeinmanPhone (404) 266-1300Fax (404) [email protected]
NORTHWESTERN DISTRICTPresident Dr. Bruce CampPhone (770) 459-1663Fax (770) [email protected]
President Elect Dr. Terry O’SheaPhone (770) 974-4146Fax (770) [email protected]
Vice President Dr. Wilkie StadekerPhone (678) [email protected]
Dr. Roy Lehrman Dr. Celia Dunn Dr. Ben Jernigan
Dr. Larry Schmitz Dr. Chris Hasty Dr. Matt Adams
Dr. Bruce Camp
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31GDA ACTIONNOVEMBER 2009
Secretary Dr. Jim HutsonPhone (770) 424-7525Fax (770) [email protected]
Treasurer Dr. Jimmy TalbotPhone (706) 635-5878Fax (706) [email protected]
Editor Dr. Kelly RawlinsPhone (770) 953-6666Fax (770) [email protected]
Trustee Dr. Robin ReichPhone (770) 435-5450Fax (770) [email protected]
SOUTHEASTERN DISTRICTPresident Dr. Larry SchmitzPhone (912) 234-2206Fax (912) [email protected]
President Elect Dr. Mark DusekPhone (912) 355-7022Fax (912) [email protected]
Vice President Dr. Jay McCaslin VIPhone (912) 355-5901Fax (912) [email protected]
Secretary Dr. Donald NelsonPhone (912) [email protected]
Treasurer Dr. Julia Ann RouthierPhone (912) 352-9120Fax (912) [email protected]
Editor Dr. Beth SheridanPhone (912) 354-5559Fax (912) [email protected]
Trustee Dr. Byron ColleyPhone (912) 355-5901Fax (912) [email protected]
SOUTHWESTERN DISTRICTPresident Dr. Chris HastyPhone (229) 382-8711Fax (229) [email protected]
President Elect Dr. Jeff SingletonPhone (229) 432-6751Fax (229) [email protected]
1st Vice President Dr. Amanda MerrittPhone (229) [email protected]
2nd Vice President Dr. Keith CrummeyPhone (912) 285-5967Fax (912) [email protected]
Secretary / Treasurer Dr. Matt SmithPhone (912) 283-3542Fax (912) [email protected]
Editor Dr. Jeff CauleyPhone (912) 283-3861Fax (912) [email protected]
Trustee Dr. Steve SamplePhone (229) 439-8896Fax (229) [email protected]
WESTERN DISTRICTPresident Dr. Matt AdamsPhone (706) 323-8811Fax (706) [email protected]
President Elect Dr. Jay HarrisPhone (706) 324-5627Fax (706) [email protected]
Vice President Dr. Nancy GallagherPhone (706) 544-4990Fax (706) [email protected]
Secretary / Treasurer Dr. Jeff SerffPhone (706) 507-0999Fax (706) [email protected]
Editor Dr. Doug KerseyPhone (706) 242-9222Fax (706) 242-9220
Trustee Dr. Robert Carpenter Jr.Phone (706) 660-9848Fax (706) [email protected]
ALLIANCE OF THE GDA
(L to r, seated): Vice President Jean Harrington, President Elect Molly Bickford,and President Linda Broderick with AADA president Anne Morrison. (L to r,standing): Treasurer Cindy Jernigan, AADA District III Trustee Debbie Torbush,Parliamentarian Sherry Kendrick, and Secretary Helaine Sugarman.
President Linda Broderick (SE)Phone (912) [email protected]
President Elect Molly Bickford (NW)Phone (770) [email protected]
Vice President Jean Harrington (C)Phone (478) [email protected]
Secretary Helaine Sugarman (N)Phone (404) [email protected]
Treasurer Cindy Jernigan (N)Phone (404) [email protected]
Editor Cheryl O’Donnell (N)Phone (770) [email protected]
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GDA DELEGATION TO THE ADA
2010 ADA Annual SessionOrlando, FloridaScientific Sessions: October 9-12Technical Exhibition: October 9-11House of Delegates: October 9-13
GDA Delegates and Term LimitsDr. Tom Broderick (SE) 1 / 2013 Dr. Henry Cook Sr. (W) 1 / 2010 Dr. Timothy Fussell (SW) 1 / 2010Dr. Ed Green (At Large) 1 / 2012Dr. Brad Greenway (N) 1 / 2010Dr. Kara Moore (C) 1 / 2013Dr. Kent Percy (NW) Officer Position*Dr. Donna Thomas Moses (NW) 1 / 2013Dr. Mike Vernon (E) 1 / 2011Dr. Richard Weinman (N) 1 / 2010
GDA Alternates and Term LimitsDr. Jack Bickford (At Large) 1 / 2013Dr. Joe Dufresne (At Large) 1 / 2011Dr. Tom Field (N) 1 / 2011Dr. Jay Harrington (C) Officer Position**Dr. Marshall Mann (NW) 1 / 2010Dr. Jim Reynierson (E) 1 / 2011
Dr. Mark Ritz (SW) Officer Position***Dr. Doug Torbush (N) 1 / 2011Dr. Pete Trager (At Large) 1 / 2010Dr. Carol Wolff (N) 1 / 2013
*Dr. Jay Harrington (President) in 2010**Dr. Mike Vernon (President Elect) in 2010***Dr. Kent Percy (Immediate Past President) in 2010
Georgia ADA RepresentativesCouncil on ADA Sessions: Dr. Kent Percy (10/12) Council on Communications: Dr. Ed Green (10/10) Council on Dental Practice: Dr. Doug Torbush (10/10) Council on Dental Benefit Programs: Dr. Wilkie Stadeker (10/12)Council on Government Affairs: Dr. Richard Weinman (10/12)
ADA Fifth District (GA, AL, MS) TrusteeDr. Donald Seago (10/13)971 Lakeland Dr Ste 225Jackson, MS 39216-4615 Phone (601) 366-7324Fax (601) [email protected]
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classified ads
DENTAL RELATED SERVICES
X-RAY SAFETY CERTIFICATION fordental assistants. Complies 100% withGeorgia law. This six-hour course hascertified over a thousand x-ray machineoperators. Send $149.99 per registrantwith name(s) to: Dr. Rick Waters, 385Pinewood Circle, Athens, GA 30606. Visitwww.acteva.com/go/laser for next daydelivery, credit card payment, or theNEW! online version. Call (706) 255-4499for more information.
DENTISTS AVAILABLE FOR FILL IN WORK /LOCUM TENENS
Dentist Available Daily (DAD): Dentistavailable during vacations, emergenciesand CE courses. Leave your practice inwell-trained hands. I am licensed, insuredand have a DEA registration number so Ican write prescriptions. Call Dr. RichardPatrick at (770) 993-8838.
Dentist will fill in for illness, vacation,or continuing ed. Licensed, insured,DEA #, call (404) 786-0229 or [email protected].
EQUIPMENT FOR SALE / LEASE
For Sale:Dental EZ J series chair. Refurbished.$1500 OBO. Inquiries call (912) 234-8282or email [email protected].
EQUIPMENT WANTED
Implant and Rotary Endo: Dentist seeksused implant motor console with handpiece or a used rotary endodontic motorconsole with hand piece. If you haveeither one that you would like to sellfor a reasonable price, please [email protected].
POSITIONS AVAILABLE
Associate Dentist Needed for PrivatePractice in South Atlanta Area.Established and growing Fee for ServiceGeneral Family Practice located inNewnan and Peachtree City seeks parttime associate dentist with possible futurefull time opportunity. The ideal candidateshould be adept in performing all phasesof general dentistry. Applicant must havestrong endodontic and periodontic skills.Please fax inquiries to (770) 487-5372Attn: Practice Administrator, or call (770)487-8298, or email [email protected].
Associate dentist needed for a busyfamily practice in Athens. Great loca-tion in a university town. Experiencepreferred but not required. Fun practicewith great patients and staff. Please faxresume to (706) 546-6468 or Email [email protected].
Owner doctor is working two locationsand is looking for an associate withopportunity for buy in. These practicesare in diverse locations and are near majorMetropolitan cities. Interested applicantsfax CV or resume to (229) 868-6984 oremail [email protected].
SAVANNAH, GA—Associate for 40 yearestablished practice. Opportunity forassociate to purchase immediate future.Come visit our beautiful city. You will wantto stay. Please contact Mandee at the officeof Dr. Carl E. Anderson at (912) 964-6241or (912) 965-0852 fax.
Full time dental associate needed inlarge metro family practice. Please e-mailyour resume to [email protected].
Associate Dentist … Established dynamicpractice offers a unique opportunity formotivated professionals. Multiple locationsavailable. No empty chairs … No insuranceclaim problems … with career highincome potential, and no daily office /overhead challenges. Contact Tina Titshawat [email protected] or call (678) 413-8130 or fax resume to (770) 760-1375.
How GDA members canplace classified ads
AD FORM: Submit all ads on a GDA ClassifiedAdvertisement Form. To obtain a form,call Lisa Chandler at (800) 432-4357or (404) 636-7553, or [email protected]. (Note: TheGDA may accept or reject any ad for anyreason and in its sole discretion.)
AD DEADLINE: Ads and ad check payments are due by thefirst of the month before the publicationmonth (i.e., Dec. 1 for January).
AD RATES: ADA member dentists pay $75.00 per60-word ad per month. There is a 25 centsper-word charge for each word over 60.Non-dentist-owned companies (real estatefirms, etc.) pay $195 per 60-word ad permonth (additional word charges as above).Non-member dentists may notplace ads.
LATE FEE:Ads for which full prepayment is notreceived by the first day of the ad’spublication month (i.e.; Nov. 1 for aNovember ad) will incur a $25 late fee inaddition to the ad rate.
FORMS OF PAYMENT: Submit a check or money order with the adform. (Make checks payable to GDA.)Credit cards are not accepted as payment.
WEB SITE PLACEMENT: Prepaid ads will appear on the GDA Website www.gadental.org for the month thead appears in print. Non-prepaid ads willNOT be placed online.
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FT / PT Motivated Associates neededimmediately for one of our rapidly growingwell-established Atlanta area practices.New graduates welcome to apply! We offerexcellent income potential with knowl-edgeable staff members dedicated to qualitydentistry and patient care. Please send CV /resume to [email protected].
Full Time Dental Associate Position:Very busy Pediatric office is seeking anassociate dentist. Candidate must haveexcellent communication skills, be enthusiasticand motivated, and able to work in a teamenvironment. New graduates welcome toapply! Please fax resume to (678) 479-7007or call Cheryl at (678) 851-5912 to schedulean interview.
Georgia—Atlanta—Lucrative AssociatePosition Available. We are a family andcosmetic group practice with three locations.Our focus is on professionalism and highquality of care. From plush waiting roomsto state-of-the-art equipment, you andyour patients will feel comfortable at ourfacilities. Exceptional support staff, flexiblehours, highest level of income in thefield. This is your opportunity to be part ofan organization that you can be proudof, while enjoying the income leveland professional esteem that you deserve.Experienced candidates please faxresumes to: (770) 926-8483.
PRACTICES / SPACE /LOTS FOR SALE / LEASE SHARE
Duluth Georgia Lease Space. Beautifulprofessional center off Sugerloaf Pkwy inDuluth. Upscale center has health / dentalprofessionals. High growth area withexcellent demographics. Ideal space forEndodontist or established GeneralPractice. Plumb with 6 operatories,private doctor office, reception desk,and consultation room. Move-in ready.Very economical around $3K/month. Cell#(678) 778-4396.
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DENTAL OFFICE FOR LEASE inJohns Creek. Previously Dental Office for fiveyears. Luxuriously built-out, just bring thechairs. 1,900 SF, High-Income area, GoodVisibility from Major Road. (770) 455-4242.
SMYRNA: Great exposure! Practice in afree-standing building off very busy road.R / E also for sale. This FFS / PPO prac-tice has consistently collected $900K forthe last three years and is on track to dothe same this year. Call SoutheastTransitions at (678) 482-7305 or [email protected] or visitwww.southeasttransitions.com for moredetails on those and other opportunities.
MANY GREAT OPPORTUNITIESNOW AVAILABLE: Snellville: collec-tions $700K; Cumming: collections $860K;SE Dekalb County: collections $1.2M;Duluth: collections $800K; Buford: collec-tions $500K. Call Southeast Transitions at(678) 482-7305 or email [email protected] or visit www.southeast-transitions.com for more details on thoseand other opportunities.
Space For Lease: an upscale 11-treat-ment room dental office in East Cobb areacurrently occupied by a general dentistand an orthodontist. Orthodontist outgrewspace and will be moving end of August.Up to 6 treatment rooms are available forlease to a specialist. For more informationcall (770) 367-6470.
Cobb County—Million dollar practicelocated in upscale office building convenientto I-75 & I-285, 6 treatment rooms, fullycomputerized, long-term staff, qualitypatient base 90% FFS. Seller will work 2-3days to provide support & production. ContactDr. Steve Katz Paragon Dental Transitionsat (352) 391-2222 or [email protected].
Space Available: 2500-3500 s.f. Class Afinished dental space available in high visi-bility center in Hiram. Already has GP,Periodontist/Endodontist. Suitable foranother GP or specialist. Landlord willingto modify space to suit needs of tenant.Also dental space available off I-85/Clairmont Rd Atlanta. 2,000 s.f. alsoavailable in Cartersville. (678) 640-5466.
PRACTICES FOR SALE: For moreinformation, call Dr. Earl Douglas, ADSSouth, 770-664-1982: ATLANTA #8557:Gross $770,141; 4 days 3 operatories;1,131 sq. ft. office space. CARROLLCOUNTY #8428: Gross $609,663; 4 days 4operatories; 2,000 sq. ft. office space.Additional plumbed but unequipped oper-atory. DULUTH OFFICE SPACE &EQUIPMENT FOR SALE #8393: Five(open-bay) operatory office with aPlanmeca pan / ceph. Equipment willinclude 4 chairs, 5 delivery units, 10computers and misc. office equipment.LILBURN #8516: Gross $1.07 Million; 5days 8 operatories; 3,000 sq. ft. officespace. RIVERDALE #8517: Gross$836,285; 4 days 8 operatories; 4,030 sq. ft.office space. Two additional plumbed butunequipped operatories. SOUTHEASTERNGEORGIA #8172: Gross $796,640; 4 days5 operatories; 1,732 sq. ft. office space.ASSOCIATE POSITIONS AVAILABLE,contact Vikki Howard (910) 523-1949.
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breaking the mold
Do you remember the Christmas presentyou received at age six? Dr. WallyEdwards, who retired as an associate deanfrom the Medical College of Georgia Schoolof Dentistry in 2000, does. In fact, he stillplays with the present he received today.
“I received my first train thatChristmas in the mid-1940s, some largesize Lionel cars, along with the tracks andswitches,” said Dr. Edwards. “It was a sur-prise—I don’t think I asked for a train thatyear. My father set up the train and trackson our ping pong table, with some cottonfor snow.”
Every Christmas after that, Dr. Edwardsreceived something new to go with histrain collection. And Dr. Edwards and hisfather would spend hours making thesetting around the train tracks realistic.
“We would go out in the country anddig up moss to stand in for grass,” said Dr.Edwards. “It would keep for weeks withproper care.”
After years of concentrating on modeltrains, Dr. Edwards remembers eventually
switching from “riding the rails” to buildingbalsa wood and plastic model airplanes,constructing models whose wingspansreached four feet. “Then, I went todental school at Virginia CommonwealthUniversity, then the Medical College ofVirginia, and that kind of killed everything,all my free time,” said Dr. Edwards. Itwas not until he graduated from dentalschool and married wife Barbara thatDr. Edwards took up the train hobby again.
“Barbara and I were in Richmond,Virginia and stopped by a hobby shop afterdinner,” said Dr. Edwards. “I bought herdinner, and then I bought myself a modelkit. It was sort of an evolution for me—Ihad enjoyed building airplanes and evenships, but once you build them, what canyou do? At least with trains there issomething to do after construction.”
Dr. Edwards built a collection of traincars in HO scale, smaller than the old-styleLionel trains he received for Christmas,and model kits for various rail yardbuildings, but it was not until 2007 whenhe and Barbara built their dream housein Augusta that he created the perfectsetting for his trains and models.
“I modified the plan for the secondfloor of our house,” said Dr. Edwards.“The plans were for a four bedroom housewith a playroom. I left out one bedroom,and pushed out the walls of other rooms.Essentially, half of the second floor is formy model railroad, and provides a homefor the items I have collected for over 50 years.”
The train room has custom displaytables constructed of exterior plywoodwith a two-inch overlay of foam insulationand then a bed of quarter-inch-thickcork. The main table, 40 inches off thefloor, is 5 feet wide and 21 feet long, andprovides room for three loops of track so
three trains can run at once. Thirty-inch-wide shelves carry the tracks around thewalls of the expanded space and connectthe tables.
Dr. Edwards is especially proud of hismost recent completed project, a modelboilerhouse with two boilers. “It took methree months to build,” said Dr. Edwards.“It was constructed out of parts of sevenmodel kits, some of which I purchased 40years ago. It has a simulated overheadpulley and belt drive system, steam pipes,and lighting, all in a footprint of 4 inchesby 7 inches. But I am comfortable workingin a small area—I don’t see how you canbe a model builder without being adentist first.”
Plans for the train room includeadding scenery around the buildings andtracks, including hills, valleys, coal mines,and even a waterfront. He is graduallyadding digital decoders to his older trainsto enable them to emit authentic trainwhistles and engine sounds.
“I am having a great time,” said Dr.Edwards. “I am proof that you have togrow old, but you don’t have to grow up.”
Dr. Wallace Edwards Turns Second Floor of Dream Home into Model Train Haven
Breaking the Mold showcases dentists with interesting hobbies—everything from raising Arabian horses to painting to woodworking tophotography and more. A different GDA dentist will be profiled every month. To submit information on a colleague or to share infor-mation about yourself, email Delaine Hall at [email protected] or call the GDA office at (800) 432-4357 or (404) 636-7553.
Part of the model railroad world Dr.Wally Edwards has created in hisAugusta, Georgia dream home.
Dr. Wally Edwards directing trains out ofthe model train yard he constructedfrom kits.
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Suite 200, Building 17, 7000 Peachtree Dunwoody RoadAtlanta, Georgia 30328-1655
www.gadental.org
ACTIONInside This Issue
• Partial Unemployment Benefits:An Alternative to Laying Off Staff
• Keeping Your Personal andFinancial Information Safe Online
DATED MATERIALPLEASE DELIVER AS SOON AS POSSIBLE
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