Will midlevel providers prevail? Greater NY Dental not changing hands

Dear DrBicuspid Member,

The ADA, American Dental Hygienists' Association, and Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) all agree that improving access to oral healthcare in underserved communities is a critical issue. But they can't seem to agree on the best approach. DHAT? ADHP? CDHC?

None of the above?

Click here to learn more about the various midlevel provider proposals -- and why the AGD is opposed to them all.

In other dental news, it looks like the upcoming Greater New York Dental Meeting will remain in the hands of the two groups that have long co-sponsored it: the New York County Dental Society (NYCDS) and the Second District Dental Society. After gaining legislative support earlier this year to expel the NYCDS from Manhattan -- and theoretically gain control of the dental meeting -- the New York State Dental Association has decided to leave well enough alone. Read more.

On the practice management front, elder neglect and abuse are becoming more frequent as our population ages, and dentists are in a unique position to detect both. But education is lacking, and more needs to be done to help dental practitioners recognize and address the problems. Find out what you can do to help here.

In clinical news, while it may look like something out of a sci-fi movie, the Nomad portable x-ray system is attracting attention by making it faster and easier to take digital images -- all while standing next to the patient. Is radiation exposure as much a risk as some state dental boards think it is? Read more.

Another interesting clinical development comes out of Australia: tooth lightening. It's not bleaching or even whitening; in fact, it avoids peroxide altogether, using remineralization instead to brighten teeth. But does it really work? Read more.

Finally, don't forget to check out the latest Dental Advisor article -- a comprehensive review of elastometric impression products, with clinical tips for the entire dental team.