2013 WMDDS Winter Bulletin

WINTER ISSUE 2013VOL. 45, NO. 3

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WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | WINTER ISSUE 2013 1

Contents

President’s Message ..................................................................................................... 2

Editor’s Thoughts ........................................................................................................ 3

In Memoriam ............................................................................................................... 3

Trustee Report ............................................................................................................. 4

2013 Silent Bell Recipient: Dr. Chase Klinesteker ..................................................... 6

2013 Silent Bell Recipient: Dr. Tom Sommerdyke ....................................................10

Technically Speaking ...................................................................................................14

Legislative News ...........................................................................................................20

Points of Light Project .................................................................................................22

Mission of Mercy .........................................................................................................24

Financial News .............................................................................................................26

Practice Management ..................................................................................................28

Classified Ads ...............................................................................................................30

Advertiser Index ...........................................................................................................31

Volunteering Considerations ......................................................................................32

About the Cover

2013 Silent Bell Recipients Dr. Chase Klinesteker and Dr. Tom Sommerdyke.

Photo courtesy of Adam Bird Photographer.

Mission StatementThe Bulletin is the newsletter of the WMDDS and its mission is to inform the membership of

upcoming and recent events, state & local issues related to dentistry, and as a forum for its officers,

representatives, and members to discuss appropriate topics of interest to the membership.

Communication & Advertising PolicyThe Bulletin will publish submitted articles from members and others that relate to the practice of

dentistry, small business, social, or political issues affecting dentists, or other subjects of interest to

the membership. All published items are subject to space restrictions and the community standards

of the WMDDS. The editors reserve the right to reject any article or advertisement deemed

inappropriate and to edit submissions as they see fit.

Submission & Publication Policy: Articles and advertisements must be submitted no

later than the 1st of the month preceding publication date. The Bulletin has six publications:

the winter issue, spring issue, summer issue, directory issue, fall issue, holiday issue. Direct

submissions or correspondences to:

Dr. Jeffrey S. Smith • 3050 Ivanrest SW, Suite B • Grandville, MI 49418

Phone: 616.531.1554 FAX 616.531.6947 • Email: [email protected]

Include “Newsletter” in the subject line

Editor Dr. Jeff Smith

Associate Editors Dr. Seth Vruggink Dr. Derek Draft Dr. Aric Smith Dr. Brian Licari

Advertising Editor Elaine Fleming Executive Secretary WMDDS 511-F Waters Building Grand Rapids, MI 49503 (616) 234-5605 [email protected]

West Michigan District Dental Society Executive Board 2012-2013 President Dr. Tyler Wolf President-Elect Dr. Margaret Gingrich Vice President Dr. Samuel Bander Secretary-Treasurer Dr. Kathleen Ellsworth Editor Dr. Jeff Smith Immediate Past President

Dr. Larissa Bishop

Directors Dr. Steve Conlon Dr. Leonard Bartoszewicz Dr. Brian MulderArea Representatives

Kent County Dr. Michael Palaszek Ionia-Montcalm

Dr. John O’Donald

County Mecosta County Dr. Erick Perroud Ottawa County Dr. Meredith Smedley

MDA IV District Dr. Brian Cilla Trustees Dr. Colette Smiley

Big Rapids Dental Study Club OfficersPresident Dr. Erick Perroud Vice President Dr. Christa SternSecretary Dr. Christa SternTreasurer Dr. Erick Perroud

Holland-Zeeland Dental Society OfficersPresident Dr. Meredith Smedley Treasurer Dr. Robert Ankerman Secretary Immediate Past President

Ionia-Montcalm Dental Study Club OfficersPresident Treasurer Dr. Kirkwood Faber

Kent County Dental Society OfficersPresident Dr. Norman Wilhelmsen Vice President Dr. Michael Palaszek Secretary Dr. Kathryn SwanTreasurer Dr. James Papp

West Michigan Dental Foundation OfficersPresident Dr. John Marshall Vice President Mrs. Wendy Mc Ginnis Secretary Mrs. Carol Klein Treasurer Mr. Joe Van Laan

The Bulletin of the West Michigan Dental Society is published six times a year (the winter issue, spring issue, summer issue, directory issue, fall issue, and holiday issue). The opinions expressed in The Bulletin are not necessarily the opinions of the West Michigan District Dental Society.

Contributions to The Bulletin are welcome and should be addressed to The Bulletin Editor, 3050 Ivanrest SW, Suite B, Grandville, MI 49418. Requests for purchase of advertising space should be directed to the Advertising Editor, Elaine Fleming, (616) 234-5605. The deadline is the 1st of the month prior to publication.

© 2012-2013 West Michigan District Dental Society Bulletin

s I am writing this, I am admiring the first real snow-

fall of the season. We didn’t quite make a White

Christmas this year, but I hope that you were still able

to enjoy a wonderful holiday season with your loved ones.

Seeing as I am not one to mince words: In what state would

you leave your affairs to those loved ones if you were to drop

dead today?

Harsh I know, but that is the way of reality most times.

The topic of my article for this edition is something that

I call my “death box,” and it is something that I think we all

should have sitting in a safe place, such as a safety deposit box

or fire safe. I actually have two identical boxes – one in my

dental office fire safe and one in my home fire safe.

The whole idea here is to leave behind a nice roadmap

to lead those who will be picking up the pieces after you are

gone. We want to make it easier for them as they will likely

be dealing with many difficult emotions as it is. Your “death

box” should contain all or most of the information they need

to deal with your dental practice (or more), all in one place.

Now for the purpose of this article, I am emphasizing mainly

dealing with dental practice stuff, but you can obviously

include whatever you feel necessary in your box.

As just an example, here’s how I have mine set up:

First of all, my “box” is actually a large manila envelope.

On the outside, I have printed in large letters “To be opened

by my wife, Jennifer A. Wolf, in the event of my death.” Then

printed and signed by me. It continues to stipulate an “execu-

tor” by name in the unfortunate case that my wife has joined

me in death.

The contents of this envelope include:

• A checklist that is designed to be a guideline for your

spouse or whomever the circumstance makes appropriate.

The first item on the checklist is to notify the office man-

ager, who will inform staff, cancel operative patients for a

couple of days, and inform patients via a pre-written letter

(more on this later).

• Contact information for: attorney, accountant, banker,

office manager, insurance contact (life, disability, etc.),

and a trusted colleague(s) who can help keep the practice

production afloat until a transition is accomplished.

• Important company documents such as: bill of sale, lease,

line of credit information, loan information, articles of

incorporation, and operating agreement.

• A well-drafted letter to be sent to patients. This should

ask patients to keep their appointments and notifies them

that support staff remains the same to serve them without

interruption.

• A personal letter to your spouse. Trust me, this will be one

of the hardest things you will ever do. I’ll leave it at that.

Now remember, this is only my example of how to set this

up and what to include within. You may change things to

your design, but I’m sure you get the idea that there are some

important items that you should not forget to include.

One last piece of advice is to encourage your spouse or

whoever is dealing with the practice to sell it quickly and

not haggle excessively over getting the absolute maximum in

price. Remember, the longer the process takes, the less your

practice will be worth anyway.

I realize that your death is not exactly the easiest or most

fun thing to have to think about. However, after taking these

steps you can accomplish the all-important final one …

Rest easy.

Thank you for your continued support of the WMDDS

and as always, my eyes and ears are open to your questions

and comments. You can contact me at 457-4600 or email

[email protected].

WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | WINTER ISSUE 20132

P R E S I D E N T ’ S M E S S A G E

Have You Thought Ahead All The Way To the End?By Tyler A. Wolf, DDS, WMDDS President

A


nother brown Christmas has passed, and ironically,

the day after provided just enough snow to cover

most everything in a thin white coating making

for adrenaline assisted driving, but not quite enough to

actually play in (unless one drives far enough north to snow-

mobile, snowshoe, or escape skiing on the man-made stuff).

These short days make for an opportune time of the year to

catch up on sleep and reading, or to ponder over what the

next twelve months may hold.

If practicing dentistry and living since the mid 1980’s has

had any impact on me besides a thinning (being generous

there), graying scalp, a lot more character lines while smil-

ing, and the need to become acquainted on a first-name basis

with a chiropractor, physical therapist, and pilates instructor

for neck and back issues, it is the realization that as time

Random Thoughts on a Non-Descript Morning Between the HolidaysBy Dr. Jeff Smith, WMDDS Editor

E D I T O R ’ S T H O U G H T S

passes and the world changes, we see how the plans that we

made years ago don’t always end up syncing with our present

circumstances. It is all too often that in trying to stay on the

original program that we created to achieve our end goals

(most of which are very noble), things and events beyond our

control have changed the distance and direction of the finish

line. Even more unfortunate are the times when we become so

preoccupied with the future, that we miss or overlook those

special moments in the present that in the end, actually would

have been more meaningful and valuable to us than the goals

we initially created.

It is easy to fall into routines during and after work, as well

as on weekends. Routines are good in that they help to keep

us doing the things necessary to make a living, as well as stay

fit mentally, emotionally, and physically. On the other hand,

we can also become so entrenched that we begin leaving our

comfort zones less and less, and miss the chance to experi-

ence things new and enriching. Many of us add to our bucket

lists year after year and make them so long that there isn’t

possibly enough time left to check even half of the items off.

Although we can’t always predict our future, with effort we

can give ourselves something to look forward to in the near

term. Resolve this year to review your list, change it where

appropriate, and mark the time off of your schedule to scratch

off a thing or two.

A

The West Michigan District Dental Society was saddened by the passing of our colleague:

Dr. Richard Jeruzal

Those wishing to make a memorial donation to the West Michigan Dental Foundation in their memory should contact Elaine Fleming at the

WMDDS office at 616.234.5605, or checks may be sent made payable to: West Michigan Dental Foundation, 161 Ottawa Avenue NW, Suite 511-F,

Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503

I N M E M O R I A M


he MDA Board of Trustees met in December at the

Okemos headquarters and here is a brief report on

the highlights of the meeting.

The meeting began Thursday evening with discussion

centered on the governance of our Association. A gover-

nance review by the MDA is not a suggestion that anything

is broken! It is simply the desire to keep the MDA a nimble,

member-driven, and member-responsive association.

I use this analogy for governance review – as dentists we

know what good oral health looks like and when examining

our patients we determine the “gaps” – the difference between

the patient’s oral health as it is now and the patient’s oral

health as it should be.

When reviewing the governance structure of our Association,

gaps will be identified – a difference between our Association

as it is now and our Association as it should be. This year’s

House of Delegates will be asked to approve performance

requirements defining the essential parameters our Association

should have, as well as identified gaps. Your delegate repre-

sentatives in the House will discuss and agree on the gaps

before it can discuss and agree on solutions. I invite you to

provide your input on what you want your Association to

look like.

We finished our evening meeting with an update on non-

covered services legislation. Wisconsin recently attempted to

pass non-covered services legislation (prohibiting insurance

companies from setting fees for services they do not cover)

and was strongly defeated. Republicans were opposed as well

as big labor.

While 29 states have passed non-covered services legisla-

tion, the legislation passed was either weak or written as

Hello West Michigan and Happy New Year!By Dr. Colette Smiley, MDA Trustee

“optional.” The language of Michigan’s bill was much stron-

ger and closed many of the loopholes that had been placed

into law in the other states. But because of this stronger

language, the bill hasn’t been able to pass. The MDA will con-

tinue to attempt to negotiate with Delta Dental on this issue.

On Friday, Executive Director Drew Eason and Director of

Membership Josh Lord led a discussion on strategic planning

and achieving goals. Discussion ensued on the MDA strategic

goals of:

• Providing practice management support to members.

• Increasing advocacy, education, and awareness on legisla-

tive and insurance issues.

• Being an authority in addressing access to care issues in

dentistry.

• Ensuring that the MDA is financially stable.

To truly know if goals are being achieved, they must be mea-

surable and focused on outcomes, not activities. To ensure

that the MDA goals are measurable and outcome focused, the

following revised MDA strategic goals were adopted:

• Ensure that the MDA is a financially stable organization.

• Help member dentists succeed at the business side of their

practice.

• Public policy on access to care will be consistent with MDA

policy.

• Increase member’s involvement in legislative affairs.

The Board had further discussion about a goal addressing

insurance issues. With the ever-changing insurance environ-

ment there are a lot of unknowns. It is difficult to thoroughly

inform members on a moving target like the insurance indus-

try. As a member, what specific and measurable goals do you

want the MDA to have regarding insurance issues?

Many of us carry the MDA’s Health Plan and at the

December Board meeting, Craig Start, President, MDA

Insurance and Financial Group, provided the Board with a

report on the MDA Health Plan. Health insurance rates for

the Blue Cross individual health plan are holding steady in

2013 with a 0% increase despite plan enhancements!

Craig also discussed with us health care reform’s impact

on the plan. Health care reform changes beginning January 1,

2014 may jeopardize the current MDA Health Plan. There are

T

T R U S T E E R E P O R T


portions of the law that make it difficult to have a plan solely

for MDA members with its own rate structure.

Because the MDA is experiencing mixed signals on these

changes from BCBSM, IFG has begun dialogue with other

insurance carriers. Again, even looking at new carriers, it is

unclear whether MDA can maintain a plan exclusively for

MDA members – MDA may be limited to offering what

everyone else can offer and thus there would be no premium

advantage to MDA members. Of course, those of us who use

the MDA health plan know we would still have the advantage

of MDA-IFG providing superior service and help with claims

problems, over what we could expect at a state run insurance

exchange or direct from BCBS.

MDA-IFG is attempting to find a solution to keep the

MDA exclusive plan intact. You can rest assured MDA

Insurance will continue to keep us updated. For more infor-

mation, you can also check out the Health Care Reform Guide

on the MDA Insurance website:

http://www.mdaprograms.com/HealthCareReformGuide.aspx

Dr. Dennis Engel, ADA Ninth District Trustee, provided the

Board with a report on ADA activities – and we have much to be

proud of as he presented the MDA with 2 Golden Apple Awards.

The Committee on Membership received an award for

Excellence in Membership Recruitment and Retention

Activity: Nonmember Five Pillars Campaign. The Committee

on Governmental and Insurance Affairs received a Legislative

Achievement Award for it’s Grassroots Development

Program. The Golden Apple Awards are recognition by the

American Dental Association that our MDA is truly “Helping

Member Dentists Succeed.”

Our MDA Committee on Governmental and Insurance

Affairs helps our diverse membership succeed as it addresses

numerous legislative issues. The following MDA-CGIA reso-

lutions were approved at the December Board meeting:

• The MDA supports the use of NOMAD handheld x-ray

systems in all settings.

• The MDA supports House Bills 5770, 5771, 5772, and 5773

to provide financial assistance on student loans to health

care professionals who practice in a designated critical

needs area for a period of three years.

• The MDA supports House Bill 5808, which would allow a

physician who accepts Medicaid, to claim a 50% tax credit

on the difference between their regular fee and the amount

of Medicaid reimbursement. This support is contingent on

adding dentists to the bill.

• In the interest of access to care, the MDA will pursue reim-

bursement from Medicaid for dental treatment provided

in ambulatory surgical centers.

On another note, some members have heard rumors and

expressed concern that the ADA Library is closing. The ADA

Library is not closing – only the public aspect of the library is

going away. The library will not be open to the public or be a

walk-in library. All information will continue to be available

to members, and articles will be provided to the members

upon request. The ADA is looking for a location to store his-

torical documents that would be open to the public.

Finally, membership mailings for 2013 renewals have been

sent. If you have not yet done so, please renew your MDA

membership today. Without your support, it is impossible to

achieve the level of success the MDA experiences.

As 2013 begins, I want to thank you for the privilege of

being your Trustee. Please be in contact with any concerns

or comments you may have, or if there is any way I can assist

you. I can be reached at 616.560.1104 or [email protected].

You can also send me a tweet @smileycolette.

T R U S T E E R E P O R T


ccording to Chase Klinesteker, he has always done

things a little differently. That’s the way he con-

ducted his dental practice and selected his hobbies.

He says he has been blessed with a patient wife who happily

understands and shares his diverse interests.

Dr. Klinesteker was born in Grand Rapids where his

father, uncle, and cousin were all dentists. He attended and

graduated from Central High School, where he was presi-

dent of the biology club, pep

club, member of the math club,

yearbook photographer, student

council, HI-Y, swimming, clas-

sical club, and the honor soci-

ety. He took lessons for piano,

clarinet, violin, and later played

the guitar for sing-a-longs for

his college fraternity. He played

tennis and touch football in col-

lege intramural sports. He even

wrestled at 155 pounds.

Chase grew up with two

older sisters, Judy and Sally. He

was the skinny brother and his

mother would always tell him

to eat all his food, but he never

enjoyed stuffing himself. His sis-

ter Judy used to bake pies and

try to “jam” them down his

throat. He says that may be why

he maintains his weight today,

because he never liked to be full. His father also didn’t allow

any candy, even on Halloween.

The family spent much of summer at their cottage at

Ottawa Beach near Holland State Park, where Chase fished

and swam. When he was five, he would fish all day and not

even come home for lunch. His dad said he couldn’t have

a boat until he could pay for one-fourth of it. His first job

was picking up dead fish on the beach, and he spent a lot of

summers painting houses and working at the Ottawa Beach

Grocery until he was able to purchase a 14-foot aluminum

boat. After he bought a boat, he became a “hot-rodder” and

practically lived on his boat. He loved it more than fishing.

In the summer of his junior year in high school, he was

an exchange student and spent two months with a family in

Aulendorf, Germany. He felt it changed his life because he

had been a little sheltered until then. It was a great experience,

and he has maintained a relationship with that family and has

visited them.

He loved the sciences. His dad stimulated his interest

because his dad had grown up on a farm. He “hung out”

at his dad’s dental office, but

his dad never pushed dentistry.

Chase loved fish and thought

he might major in ichthyology

at the University of Michigan

until he toured their lab, saw

their research, and decided that

wasn’t for him. Instead, he pur-

sued dentistry.

While in dental school on a

summer break he took a “trip of

a lifetime” with his friend Tom

Stone, and traveled 6,000 miles

out West for six weeks where

they camped and saw all the

National Parks.

Chase met Sandra Sonner

at the University of Michigan

when he was a senior dental

student and she was getting her

Master’s Degree to teach dental

hygiene. She was in the first

such program at the Michigan Dental School.

Sandra had grown up in Percival, Iowa. After college, she

worked in Butte, Montana, for a company where she cleaned

and x-rayed employees’ teeth; then she worked for two den-

tists in Billings. After that, she decided to go to U of M for her

Master’s in dental hygiene. When she finished the program,

she taught dental hygiene at the Nebraska Dental School

before getting married to Chase and moving to Oregon.

After dental school, Chase entered the US Public Health

Service and was assigned to mobile dental unit #3, where he

gave dental treatment to all Coast Guard active duty person-

nel at stations along the Oregon and Washington coasts.

2013 Silent Bell Recipient: Dr. Chase Klinesteker Submitted by Dr. Paul Korte Photos by Adam Bird Photographer

A

2 0 1 3 S I L E N T B E L L R E C I P I E N T


Sandra joined him after his first year. They spent their first

year of marriage living in motels because he had to keep mov-

ing from station to station.

They returned to Grand Rapids after the service and pur-

chased the practice of Dr. Stuart DeVries. Chase shared office

space with three outstanding dentists over the years: Dr. Ron

Dunwell, Dr. Claire Cartier, and Dr. Tom Kimball. They were

great mentors. Sandra taught at Grand Rapids Junior College

and also worked part-time in dental offices.

Sandra and Chase’ daughter, Amy, was born in 1972, and

graduated from Hope College with a degree in French. She

married Brad Hineline and lives in Grand Rapids. She is a

French teacher at Forest Hills Northern High School. She has

a daughter, Ariana, who is eight years old, and loves to fish

with grandpa.

Chase and Sandra are members of

Trinity United Methodist Church. Chase

sang in the choir for over 30 years and

has led many adult education classes and

taught Sunday school. He is presently

working with the parish nurse to conduct

some adult education classes on dentistry.

In public service, Chase has been an

active member, on the Board of Directors,

and President of the local chapter of the

Izaak Walton League, an environmen-

tal group protecting our soil, woods,

and waters. He also is a member of the

International Torch Club, with the purpose of providing

an interchange of opinion and information in the spirit of

fellowship and candor. He was a member of the West

Michigan Environmental Action Council as well as many

other organizations.

One of the most fun things Chase did in dentistry was to tell

patients about re-contouring. He enjoyed making people happy

with their smiles. It was a simple way to help people become

more self-confident. He also implemented Bob Barclay’s

“POH” program early on in his practice, and found it to be

one of his biggest practice builders.

Chase retired from dentistry in June 2008, but his many

other interests have kept him busy, including: tropical fish

breeding, Spoonplugging, listening to Dixieland music, table

tennis, boating, and photography.

Chase began keeping tropical fish in 1952 and was presi-

dent of both Grand Rapids Junior and Adult Aquarium

Societies. He has written many articles on breeding tropical

fish, and currently has about 40 aquariums in his home. He

breeds and sells fish and plants, and hopes to set up a website

to help others get started.

Chase became a certified Spoonplugging instructor, one of

nine in the US giving seminars and on-water training classes

in Spoonplugging technique. Spoonplugging is the scientific

study of fish and how they relate to their environment. He

has been a member and officer of the Grand Rapids Lunker

Hunters Fishing Club since the early 70’s.

Chase has been active with the Grand Rapids Table Tennis

Club since 1987 and is on the local orga-

nizing committee for the US Open Table

Tennis Tournaments. The sport is some-

thing he would like to promote. He says

there is much skill, quickness, athletic

ability, and aerobic exercise in it. It can

be played seriously or for fun, and is good

for hand-eye coordination. He thinks it

should be played in high schools. Chase

runs the local club, which plays every

Wednesday night in his church’s gym.

Chase’s philosophy is that success

comes from knowledge, action, and per-

sistence. “Two most important factors

are attitude and perseverance.” One of his father’s favorite

quotes was to, “Always tell the truth – then you don’t have to

remember what you said,” and that has remained with him.

Chase says that, “Dentistry is a great profession that has

allowed me to help others. I believe in being honest and treat-

ing your staff and patients with respect and fairness.”

Chase believes that exercise and eating correctly are impor-

tant for a long and healthy life. He loves taking walks with

his wife and playing table tennis. He also enjoys his boat (his

ninth one), which is the best one yet.

“Any accomplishments or successes in my life are due in

great part to my caring and supportive wife, Sandra.” He says

he is truly blessed!



Chase Franklin Klinesteker, DDSCurriculum Vitae

Born: July 4, 1940, Grand Rapids, MI

Married: Sandra Sue Sonner August 27, 1966

Daughter: Amy Sue, married Brad Hineline

Granddaughter: Arianna May Hineline

Education

Vandenberg Elementary School

1958 Grand Rapids Central High School

1965 University of Michigan undergrad and Dental School

Doctor of Dental Surgery

Military Service

1965–1967 US Public Health Service, Astoria, Oregon

Assigned to Coast Guard Mobile Dental Unit #3 covering the Washington

and Oregon coasts

Business Experience

1967 to 2008 Private dental practice in Grand Rapids

Shared office space with Drs. Ron Dunwell, Claire Cartier, & Tom Kimball

Retired from Dentistry June, 2008

Professional Memberships

Kent County Dental Society

West Michigan District Dental Society

Michigan Dental Association

American Dental Association

American College of Dentists, inducted October 2012

Dental Organizations

WMDDS Museum Display Committee, 1973–1977, co-chair

WMDDS Board of Directors, 1974–1977

WMDDS Toothkeeper Program, 1976

WMDDS Scholarship Committee, 1976, chair

WMDDS Dental Education Committee, 1980–1983, chair

Kent County Dental Society, 1981–1985, president and chairs

WMDDS, Constitution and Bylaws Committee, 1985–1988

U of M Alumni Society Visiting Committee, 1985–1987

WMDDS Fluoridation Commemorative Stamp Committee, 1988–1995,

chair

WMDDS 50th Anniversary of Fluoridation Committee, 1988–1995

WMDDS Fluoridation Historical Marker Committee, 2007–2010

“Nico Team”, 2010–present, speaking to students about smoking

GRCC dental hygiene and assisting classes, February 2011, “History of

Fluoridation” talk

Other activities: Dental Toastmasters, ADA and MDA life member,

Kent County Outing “fishing package”, WMDDS Dental Health

Education Committee

Community Involvement

Grand Rapids Junior and Adult Aquarium Societies, president, 1955–1958

Trinity United Methodist Church, 1969–present, choir president, Adult Ed

chair and teacher, pastor-parish, softball, Sunday school teacher

Torch Club, 1969–present, president, board, presented 6 papers including:

“Fluoridation: Grand Rapids Greatest Legacy”

Izaak Walton League, 1969–present, president, board

Lunker Hunters Fishing Club, 1972–present, charter member, president,

current secretary

Greater Michigan Home and Garden Show, 1972, organic gardening seminar

United Way Planning Council, 1976

Southwest Michigan Aquarium Society, 1983–present

FAAS, 1984, national award for breeding tropical fish

Grand Rapids Press and Muskegon Chronicle, 1988–2011, featured in

fishing articles

National Spoonpluggers, 1990–present, Board of Directors

Grand Valley Aquarium Club, 1995–present, member and author of articles

Certified Spoonplugging Instructor, 2000–present

Grand Rapids Ultimate Sports Show, 2001–present, annual fishing seminars

Grand Rapids Table Tennis Club, 2002–present, club coordinator

EGR Library, June 27, 2009, seminar about Reeds Lake

US Open Table Tennis Tournament, 2010 & 2012, local organizing committee



Otto Lee Ricker, D.D.S., M.S. 1981

Willard B. Ver Meulen, D.D.S. 1981

Clifford T. Nelson, D.D.S. 1982

William M. Creason, D.D.S. 1983

Vernor H. Eman, D.D.S., M.S. 1984

Julius Franks, Jr., D.D.S. 1985

Henry L. Homan, D.D.S. 1986

Ray E. Stevens, Jr., D.D.S. 1987

Orren A. Bolt, D.D.S. 1988

Robert F. Streelman, D.D.S. 1989

Gerald L. Vander Wall, D.D.S., M.S. 1990

David H. Seibold, D.D.S. 1991

Donald G. Hallas, D.D.S. 1992

Robert E. Reagan, D.D.S. 1993

John R. Cook, D.D.S. 1994

Eugene L. Bonofiglo, D.D.S. 1995

Lawrence R. Marcotte, D.D.S., M.S. 1996

Laurence J. Jensen, D.D.S. 1997

Harry H. Luton, D.D.S., M.S. 1997

Robert W. Browne, D.D.S., M.S. 1998

Harold O. Steele II, D.D.S. 1998

Lawrence J. Manning, D.D.S., M.S. 1999

Arnold Baker, D.D.S., M.S. 2000

Robert D. Mitus, Jr., D.D.S. 2000

Robert W. Klinesteker, D.D.S. 2001

Timothy H. Gietzen, D.D.S. 2002

James L. Wieland, D.D.S. 2003

Charles R. Caldwell, D.D.S., M.S. 2004

Henry J. Milanowski, D.D.S. 2005

John J. Stepanovich, D.D.S. 2006

Lonny E. Zietz, D.D.S., M.S. 2007

Michael H. (Reggie) VanderVeen, D.D.S. 2008

William A. Avery, D.D.S. 2009

William F. Rocker, D.D.S. 2009

Robert F. O’Brien, D.D.S. 2010

Marilyn J. Stolberg, D.D.S. 2010

John D. Bouws, D.D.S. 2011

Paul F. Korte, D.D.S. 2012

Silent Bell Past Recipients


r. Tom Sommerdyke, when asked what most

influenced his life of leadership and service to his

profession, church, and community, his first

thought was of his parents, who built their family life on

faith, education, and hard work. This was Tom’s foundation

for a life lived with purpose and direction.

Tom was born on November 24, 1931, to Anthony

and Jessie Sommerdyke. His father was employed by C&O

Railroad, and, when laid off during the Great Depression,

Tom’s mother opened a hair salon in their home. Later she

worked for the Department of Labor for 20 years.

Tom’s parents made it a point

to always eat supper together as a

family, with Tom and his broth-

ers, Dick and Terry. These night-

ly times kept the family close and

informed about the week ahead.

Another family habit was regular

attendance at Mass.

Tom’s childhood was filled

with pick-up baseball, swimming

at a local gravel quarry, horse-

back riding at Eardley’s Stable,

and working at a bowling alley

and muck farm near Burlingame

and 28th Street. He particularly

enjoyed attending Holy Name

of Jesus Elementary School, later

graduating from Grand Rapids

Catholic Central in 1949. During high school, he worked at

the Pepsi bottling plant, cleaning floors and equipment.

Tom completed his pre-dental training at Grand Rapids

Junior College in 1951. He remembers Mary Belle Macabe,

a professor of anatomy and physiology, as the one who nur-

tured his interest in science. During the summer he worked as

a milkman, delivering Sealtest milk.

Tom started dental school in the fall of 1951 at Loyola

University in Chicago. His favorite professor was Dr. Harry

Sicher, who authored Sicher’s Oral Anatomy used in dental

schools around the world. One of Sicher’s fascinating traits

was to illustrate on the blackboard, using chalk in both hands.

Professor Sicher was a great story teller, as Tom learned after

class at the Monkey Room Tavern, a local pub and hangout.

During his first year of dental school, Tom met his wife,

Pat, at a dental fraternity dance. She was there with a fellow

student, but later Tom asked her for a date. They were mar-

ried the summer before his senior year. Pat had been a teacher

at the Lew Wallace High School in Gary, Indiana, but, after

they were married, she was able to find substitute teaching

jobs in Chicago.

After graduating from Loyola, Tom enlisted in the Navy,

hoping to be stationed in Hawaii as a Naval officer, but

instead he was assigned to the Great Lakes Naval Station, just

30 miles north of Chicago. Pat

then taught full-time at Great

Lakes until their son Tom was

born in 1957.

Completing his time in the

US Navy, Tom worked part-time

for Dr. Al Harris in Coopersville.

He then started his own pri-

vate practice in Grand Rapids in

1958, where he practiced for over

51 years.

When Tom and Pat returned

to Grand Rapids, their daughter

Susan was born in 1958, Jennifer

in 1961, and John in 1965. Their

active family enjoyed snow ski-

ing, water skiing, golf, and time

spent at a cottage on Silver Lake.

They also carried on the family tradition of evening meals

together, catching up on their activities. School, sports, and

church were events that filled their weekly calendar.

Looking back on his dental career, Tom’s primary passions

were preventive dentistry and pain management. To that end,

Tom took many post-graduate courses including a series with

Dr. John Mew and the International Association of Facial

Growth Guidance (Orthropics). He also trained in Myofacial

Pain Treatment, studying with Dr. Larry Funt and Dr. Janet

Travell (President John F. Kennedy’s physician), who is a TMJ

pain specialist. Dr. Sommerdyke also completed four levels

of training in advanced restorative dentistry with the Pankey

Institute under Dr. Peter Dawson.

2013 Silent Bell Recipient: Dr. Tom Sommerdyke Submitted by Dr. William Rocker Photos by Adam Bird Photographer

D



Tom also found satisfaction in meeting the needs of

underprivileged people in the free clinics in Grand Rapids.

He also donated dental treatment to priests, nuns, and sisters

in the diocese. He attributes his initial interest in dentistry to

his family dentist, Dr. William Carey, who practiced in the

Lorraine Building in Grand Rapids.

Visiting their six grandchildren, attending their games,

continuing to take “post graduate” courses at Calvin College

are some of Tom and Pat’s retirement activities. They both

enjoy reading and volunteering at Immaculate Heart of Mary

Church.

As Tom and Pat celebrate their 58th wedding anniversary

this year, Pat says, “I admire his mild manner, loving nature,

and ability to think things through.” Tom says, “I admire her

intellect, love of family, and her great memory.”

Tom’s future plans are to live a healthy life with his family

and look forward to each tomorrow. His contribution to the

dental profession and his service to his community make him

a most worthy recipient of the Silent Bell Award.


Thomas Edward Sommerdyke, DDSCurriculum Vitae

Professional Associations


Michigan Dental Association

American Dental Association

Kent County Dental Society

Professional Leadership

President of the West Michigan District Dental Society, 1977–1978

Advisor to the Grand Rapids Dental Assistant’s Society

Provided free Dental services for Sisters of the Cross at the Villa Maria

for 28 years

Volunteered at the Clinica Santa Maria and Cherry Street Health Services

providing dental services to low income families

Professional Awards

Life Member Michigan Dental Association

Life Member American Dental Association

Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, July 1983

Fellow of the American College of Dentists, Nov. 1976

Community Service

Member of Grand Rapids Kiwanis Club for over 30 years Kiwanis Club

President, 1964

Immaculate Heart of Mary Church

Parish Council President

Lay Distributor (first class 1973)

Member of IHM and Catholic Central Boosters Club


WMDDS Holiday Event HighlightsPhotos by Adam Bird Photographer


T E C H N I C A L L Y S P E A K I N G

hat is the best policy on updates and new soft-

ware? To best answer this, there are really two

separate topics; (1) Updates & (2) New Software

UpdatesUpdates usually come in the form of annoying pop-ups in the

bottom right hand corner of your screen. They may be com-

ing from Microsoft, iTunes, Adobe, Java, and a wide array of

others. These updates, for the most part, do need to get done.

They often address security issues in the software or other

known problems. Go without them and you are leaving your

system at risk. The question then becomes how and when

should they be done?

The best answer I can give for this is: be consistent. If

updates are going to be done on one computer, do updates

on all computers. The more alike your computers are, the

more likely it is that they will run similarly, which is what you

(and you tech company) want. For our clients, we recom-

mend a “do not do any updates to your computer” policy

paired with a monthly or quarterly maintenance program

where all updates are done together. This keeps all computers

on the same page which makes problem solving much easier

if a problem arises on an individual machine. Lastly, doing

updates monthly or quarterly allows us to try the updates out

on our own systems and flag any updates that are known to

cause problems before they ever make it on to your systems.

New SoftwareI consider New Software to be a major version change

rather than just an incremental update. Think Dentrix G4 to

Dentrix G5 or Eaglesoft15 to Eaglesoft16. These usually come

on a cd from your Practice Management provider and make

significant changes to your software.

My recommendation has always been to sit tight for a little

while. New software is very difficult to thoroughly test out,

the best method used by developers is to release to the public

and see what issues come up. In my experience, jumping on a

new version of software right away is very, very exciting. Not

a good exciting though. Sometimes it’s just little things like

the appointment book looks slightly different, but other times

it is major, so much so that you may need new computers

because the new software is so slow on your aging computers.

With new software it is always a good idea to take a realistic

look at the specs being called for. Get with your tech folks

to do an analysis of how your computers compare on paper

to software recommendations. If your computers just meet

minimum spec, chances are you and your staff are not going

to be thrilled with the performance.

In many cases, there aren’t any features in the new version

that you truly need. Generally there is not a real compelling

reason to upgrade right away. I would not, however, advocate

getting too far behind the current version as you may lose

support and have difficulty getting to the current version.

ConclusionSoftware updates and version upgrades are a necessary part

of life. We’ve all been through the pains of upgrading as well

as the pains of having outdated software. With a conservative

approach that aims behind the bleeding edge but well ahead

of obsolescence you are sure to have the best possible results.

What are your thoughts?Comment on our blog or facebook article. We’d love to hear

your opinions on Software & Updates or any other topic.

Facebook: facebook.com/ddsintegration

Blog: ddsintegration.com/blog

Best Policy on Updates and New SoftwareSubmitted by Greg Feutz, President, DDS Integration

Greg Feutz is President of

DDS Integration, a

Grand Rapids based dental

technology company.

W

Visit mdaprograms.com or call today at 800.860.2272.

We do.Find out what thousands of Michigan dentists already know. Get your professional liability insurance, and all your other coverage, from the most trusted and knowledgeable source.

You can detect periodontaldisease in 2 minutes.

But do you know how to navigate a malpractice claim?

Pull patient chart for legal review

NO

V

I APRIL 17-2

0, 2

013

Catch the Spirit in Novi!

MDA 2013 Annual SessionSuburban Collection Showplace, Novi • April 17-20, 2013

Pre-Register Early!Online registration now open!

www.smilemichigan.com\pro

Join your colleagues for great social events, a variety of topics and speakers and nearly 200 exhibits.

New this year — one hour “Hot Topic” sessions —more information coming soon.

SPEAKERS INCLUDE:

Scott Benjamin, DDSJoseph Best, DDS, PhDM. Douglas Campbell

W. Choong Foong, PhDMary Govoni, RDA, RDH

Derek HeinTimothy Kosinski, MS, DDS

Glenn LombardiSusan Maples, DDSAlan Mead, DDS

Kenneth Myers, DDSWilliam Nudera, DDS, MsChristopher Smiley, DDS

Jon Suzuki, DDS, PhD, MBADomenica Sweier, DDS, PhD

Anastasia Turchetti, RDHStephen Ura, DDS

Kelli VrlaDaniel Ward, DDS

Plus keynote speakerCONNIE PODESTA

and others

Michigan Dentistry’s Biggest CE Event!

4th Annual

DENTAL APPRECIATION NIGHTPresented by

/grgriffins @griffinshockeygriffinshockey.com1.800.2.HOCKEY

Friday, March 8 at 7 p.m. VAN ANDEL ARENA The Grand Rapids Griffins invite your office to join us for all the fun and excitement of Dental Appreciation Night!

Last season, over 500 dental professionals, their families and friends enjoyed this special game.

This season’s Dental Appreciation Night will feature:• Special in-game promotions and $1 concession specials• Discounted tickets for your office• Ticket proceeds benefiting the West Michigan Dental Foundation• The first 500 WMDDS members, staff, family and friends will receive a drawstring backpack courtesy of the WMDDS

For more info including discounted ticket pricing, please contact Andrew Rubinstein at 616.774.4585 ext 3023 or [email protected]

WEST MICHIGAN DISTRICT DENTAL SOCIETY | HOLIDAY ISSUE 201218

56 Grandville Avenue sw . Suite 100Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503 . 616 235 5200

Your practice depends on the individualized service you provide each and every client. So does ours.With extensive hands-on experience in the healthcare industry, our team focuses on the financial and operational challenges you face everyday. We are committed to providing industry-specific expertise relevant to you, without compromising your patient focus.

For more information please visit BeeneGarter.com or contact Brian LaFrenier at (616) 235-5200.

Evolving your practice today for a healthier tomorrow.

Tax Planning and Preparation

Sales and Use Tax

Accounting Software Installation and Support

Bookkeeping and Assistance

Start-Up Consulting

Choice of Entity Analysis

Cash Flow Projections

Overhead Analysis

IRS Representation

Payroll Processing

Retirement Plan Design and Administration

Human Resources

Succession Planning

Business Valuation

Estate Planning and Wealth Management

Copyright © B

eene Garter LLP An independent m

ember of M

oore Stephens International Limited

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creams & gels • gummies, lollipops & lozenges sterile medications • suppositories, sprays and more

KEYSTONE PHARMACYSpecializing In Your Health

4021 Cascade Road SEGrand Rapids, MI 49546616-974- 9792www.keystonerx.com

Your Compounding Experts

WHAT GOOD IS A DEAD PATIENT WITH PERFECT TEETH?Presented by David Meinz, Nutritionist | March 22, 2013 | Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

Course Outline1. The Fundamentals: Diet and Dental Health2. Osteoporosis Update: The Latest on Diet and Bone Health3. Fast Foods: The Good, The Bad, and the Ugly4. Foods Today’s Dental Profession Should Recommend for Dental and Total Health

Learning Objectives:1. Distinguish between “the truth” and “the whole truth” in food product health claims.2. Identify selections at fast food restaurants that taste good and also contribute to good health.3. Appreciate the realities of current popular weight loss diets.4. Obtain specific personal recommendations for healthy and safe intakes of fat, sodium, cholesterol, fiber, and sugar.

5. Understand which new food products can play a legitimate role in health improvement.

David Meinz is a nutritionist with a Master’s degree in human nutrition and a registered dietitian. He has been recognized as a Fellow in the American Dietetic Association and has received the Certified Speaking Professional designation from the National Speakers’ Association. In his twenty-year speaking career, he has presented to close to 200 dental groups and is a contributing editor to The Journal of the Academy of General Dentistry. He has also authored the audio learning system entitled “Healthy Dentistry.”

West Michigan District Dental Society is an

ADA CERP Recognized Provider.

REGISTRATION FORm

NAME

ADDRESS

ADDITIONAL REGISTRANT(S) AT THIS ADDRESS

MDA-member dentist – $225

WMDDS retired member dentist – $100

per staff – $100

per non-member dentist – $450

TOTAL:

PAY BY CHECK: Make checks payable to: West Michigan District Dental Society. Remit to: Elaine Fleming | c/o WMDDS | 161 Ottawa NW | Suite 511-F, Waters Building | Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503 | Questions? Call 616.234.5605 or email [email protected]

PAY BY CREDIT CARD: � VISA � Mastercard

CREDIT CARD # EXPIRATION DATE/SECURITY CODE

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ThaNk yOu TO Our SPONSOrS whO have heLPeD TO Make TheSe PrOGraMS avaiLabLe TO uS.

Supporting Sponsor:Platinum Sponsors: Gold Sponsor:


L E G I S L A T I V E N E W S

k, maybe not really, but if he was alive, he would

say we need you to take more responsibility in your

profession. Once again, I am asking for volunteers

to be contact dentists for our state elected officials. There are

a lot of issues coming before us: mid-level providers, Obama

Care, new taxes etc., and we need to establish good work-

ing relationships with our legislators. If you are interested

O

in becoming a contact dentist, please email me at smdater@

comcast.net, and if you could please let me know who your

representative and state senator are, that would be great.

Wait: you don’t know who they are? No problem just go to:

http://www.smilemichigan.com/pro/LegislativeCenter.aspx

Type in your address and you will get the information.

Also, I am looking for two people that would like to serve

on the Legislative Committee with me. It would be great to get

a new dentist involved because the changes that could affect

our profession will have a profound effect on you! Don’t for-

get, even if you can’t be a contact dentist, attend our legisla-

tive breakfast April 26th (see registration form in the issue).

PS. A bunch of eye doctors (West Michigan Optometric

Association) were able to get 25 docs to show up for their

breakfast. … We can beat that, can’t we???

Uncle GV Black Wants You!By Dr. Steve Dater, DDS, Legislative Committee Chairperson

www.theinsuranceforprofessionals.com

G L F I A

•Areyoucomfortablewithyourpolicy?•Areyourbenefitscleartoyou?•Haveyoureallycompareditto

whatisavailabletoday?

At GLFIA, we make it all as clear as day, keep you current with ‘today’, and represent companies that pay.

Molly Murray

Licensed expertise in: Group Insurances Life Insurance Disability Long Term Care

GreAT LAkes FInAnCIAL InsurAnCe AGenCy

For a clearer view of your insurance and a free, no-obligation quote, call Molly Murray today at 616.301.2599!

DisabilityIncomeInsurancethat’sclearasday.

4930 Cascade road se ■ Grand rapids, MI 49546 ■ 616.301.2599 ■ [email protected]

Legislative Breakfast

Friday, April 26, 2013Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

1000 East Beltline NEGrand Rapids, MI 49525

Please mark your calendar and make plans now to attend the WMDDS Legislative Breakfast.

This is an important opportunity for you to meet your local legislators and express your views and concerns

on the issues that affect dentistry. Please make every effort to attend. Dentistry’s voice needs to be heard.

To reserve your place, please complete and return the attached form by April 18, 2013.

Name

Email address

Breakfast Buffet will be served starting at 8:00 am

Cost: $16 per person

Please make check payable to: West Michigan District Dental Society

Return by April 18, 2013 to:


161 Ottawa Avenue NW Suite 511-F

Grand Rapids, MI 49503

Questions? Contact Elaine Fleming

616.234.5605 | [email protected]

or

Dr. Steve Dater, WMDDS Legislative Chairperson

616.866.0869 | [email protected]


P O I N T S O F L I G H T P R O J E C T

uch consideration has been given to the cost ramifications of beginning dental care at one year of age versus beginning at three to five

years of age. Proponents of the age-one dental visit often site a North Carolina study that demonstrated a significant cost savings when dental care began at one-year of age as compared to patients who received care beginning at three- years of age. Detractors are quick to point out that most of the cost savings is lost when those cases requiring hospital/operating room care are removed from the patient pool. As hospital/OR care can be quite expensive, (e.g., $15,000/case), the removal or inclusion of these patients, although small in number, would significantly impact the cost of care delivery to a patient population.

In fact, when comparing the cost of oral health care from cohorts receiving dental care from one- to six-years of life (utilizing current NHANES data), revealed an approximate savings of only $50 per patient. This cost analysis did not include those patients that required their care to be delivered in a hospital setting; therefore, although there is a cost savings associated with early, preventive oral health care, profound cost savings is only realized by a small percentage of patients who, through early intervention, are able to avoid being treated in a hospital setting. Additionally, when the cost sav-ings of “Infant Oral Health Care” are multiplied by large-scale implementation, (e.g., 1000 patients = $50,000 savings), the realized cost savings are rendered “less than significant” when cast against the economy of scale defined by our overall health care expenditures.

When viewed in the cold light of dollars and cents, the rational for the “one-year dental visit” lacks the glitz one hopes for when attempting to implement a new paradigm of early, preventive dental care. In fact, one is left with the ques-tion, “What is the unrealized cost of waiting until age three to begin dental care?”

The most obvious cost of waiting until three years of age to begin dental care is that of compromised or undelivered care. Current NHANES data indicates that nearly 30% of three- to five-year-olds have dental decay and that percentage is growing. Distribution studies indicate that 80% of all decay is suffered upon 20% of patients; therefore, roughly 20% of children with decay have significant decay. The more signifi-cant the decay, the less likely it is that the patient will receive definitive and successful treatment by less than specialty level,

pediatric care. Limited numbers of pediatric dental special-ists and geographic distribution issues amongst the specialty when compared to the sheer number of patients with pathol-ogy dictate that a majority of these patients be treated by gen-eral dentists that are less than comfortable treating complex restorative cases in young children. All of these contributing factors result in care that is potentially emotionally difficult for the patient or family, long and challenging procedures, long-term restorative results that fall short of the practitio-ner’s expectations and, in many instances, care that is delayed to the point of “never being delivered.”

Young children with high decay rates predictably grow up to be older children with high decay rates. This yields ado-lescents and young adults who have lived with unaddressed dental needs or those that were addressed in a less than suc-cessful manner. This unavoidably results in a percentage of our youth with compromised oral health, and at what cost? Behavioral evidence suggests lowered self-esteem resulting in those who are less likely to pursue higher education and more likely to experiment in risk behaviors (e.g., sex, drugs, over-eating and alcohol). Though it would be an overstatement to suggest that poor oral health is a cause predictor of these outcomes, its role as a pernicious contributor is undeniable as is its cost to the community and society over time.

However, the real reason for starting dental care by age one is not simply the incalculable monetary savings to society over time. The greatest reason to begin early oral health inter-vention is the compounding effect of prevention over time. The one-year dental visit provides an opportunity to delay, ameliorate, mitigate and/or prevent very young children from experiencing decay. Although dental decay must be addressed, from the perspective of the child patient, operative dentistry is rarely enjoyable and often times a devastating ordeal. Every dentist who has ever had to bring a frightened child through a painful procedure will wear the scars of that experience their entire career and into retirement, as will the patient. Dentistry on children is not pleasant and it is unconscionable not to do everything in our power as healthcare providers to prevent and/or delay that experience. The greatest reason to begin dental care by age one is because it is the most humane thing we can do short of administering a cure for caries (which we have yet to stumble upon). Every child should have a “dental home” beginning in infancy. Not because it will save us a few dollars, but because it is the right thing to do!

Infant Oral Health: The Unrealized Cost of WaitingSubmitted by Kevin J. Hale, DDS, FAAPD, Executive Director, Points of Light Project

M


1. At what age do you recommend the first dental visit?

____ Birth

____ Between the appearance of the first tooth and one year

____ Age 2

____ Age 3

____ Prior to starting kindergarten

2. If you do not recommend the first dental visit by age 1, why not? (Please check all that apply.)

____ I do not feel it is necessary

____ I am not comfortable treating infants

____ I do not treat children in my practice

____ I do not have the time/staff capacity

____ Patients and third parties will not pay for this procedure

____ Other: please explain __________________________

_________________________________________________

3. If you do not recommend the first dental visit by age 1, would you consider implementing this service into your practice with additional information or resources?

Yes ____ No ____

4. Do you provide the age 1 dental exam?

Yes ____ No ____

5. If you do provide an age 1 dental exam, which of the following procedures are included in your exam? (Please check all that apply)

____ Caries Exam

____ Soft Tissue Exam

____ Oral Hygiene Instruction

____ Nutrition Counseling

____ Fluoride Varnish Application

____ Other: ______________________________________

_________________________________________________

6. The primary mission of the Points of Light project is to promote the first dental visit by age 1. If you perform age 1 dental visits, have you registered as a Points of Light provider @ www.pointsoflightonline.org?

Yes ____ No ____

7. In your practice, do you accept the following methods of payment (Please check all that apply):

____ Healthy Kids Dental

____ Medicaid

____ Uninsured/self-pay

____ Uninsured/pro-bono

____ Other: ______________________________________

_________________________________________________

8. Where is your practice located?

____ Ionia County

____ Kent County

____ Mecosta County

____ Montcalm County

____ Ottawa County

If you would like to be entered in a drawing for a $50 gift card,

please print your name below.

_________________________________________________

_________________________________________________

Thank you for your time. Please mail, scan, or fax completed

survey to:

Mail: WMDDS, 161 Ottawa Avenue NW,

511-F Waters Building, Grand Rapids, MI 49503

Email: [email protected]

Fax: 616.454.6549

This survey can also be completed via SurveyMonkey at

https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/Age1DentalVisitSurvey

KCOHC/WMDDS Age 1 Dental Visit SurveyThe Kent County Oral Health Coalition, in collaboration with the WMDDS Points of Light Task Force, is gathering data on the

prevalence of the age 1 dental visit in our community. Please complete this brief survey by February 15, 2013 and return it to

WMDDS. Thank you.

P O I N T S O F L I G H T P R O J E C T


M I S S I O N O F M E R C Y

Mission of Mercy On-Line Registration Now Open: Dental Volunteers Key to Success

n-line registration is now open for the June 7–8

Mission of Mercy event at the Ryder Center on the

campus of Saginaw Valley State University. “This

will be the largest charitable dental clinic ever in Michigan,

and the key to its success will be the dedication of the volun-

teers,” said MOM clinical chair Scott Hodges, DDS, MS.

Please visit http://www.rsvpbook.com/MDAMOM13 for easy

access to MOM volunteer registration.

“To efficiently provide dental care to the anticipated 2,000

children and adults during the two-day event, 300 dentists,

hygienists, and assistants will be needed,” said Hodges. “A

real team effort will be required, and we are confident that

dentists throughout the state will want to be involved in this

important charity effort.”

In addition to dental personnel, 700 lay volunteers are

needed. Dental office staff is encouraged to involve family and

friends. While the clinic dates will be June 7–8, volunteers are

needed the days before and after MOM to help with set-up

and tear-down.

The Michigan Dental Association and the MDA Foundation

are sponsoring the Mission of Mercy to provide free dental

care to children and adults who have limited financial resources

or are unable to visit a dental office.

Connie Verhagen, DDS, MS, instrumental in bringing

MOM to Michigan, said, “It’s amazing to see the dental pro-

fessionals and community leaders come together to provide

cleanings, fillings, extractions, partial dentures, and personal

oral hygiene education.” Verhagen co-chairs the event with

Stephen Harris, DDS.

The goals for Mission of Mercy are to provide free, critical

dental care with a priority on treating patients in pain and

with infections; raise public awareness of the barriers to den-

tal care faced by low-income adults and children; and to chal-

lenge patients, policymakers and dental professionals to work

together to make healthy choices that will improve Michigan

residents’ oral health.

O

HANC Ad for the Bulletin 1/10/13 Size: 7.5” wide x 3.25” high (One-third Horizontal) 1213-8482

Good Ideas for Dental Practices

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“ Budgeting is not the most exciting topic—until you see the profi ts which result from it! Set goals for each type of revenue, take a close look at staffi ng costs, set your wage and draws at tax effi cient levels, budget your expenses closer and monitor these items throughout the year as you see the actual results.”

For 14 more Good Ideas from Hungerford, please email Rick Chrisman at [email protected], or call Rick at (616) 949-3200.

Good Ideain a series of 15

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experience matters. Our understanding

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Thursday, June 6, 2013Set up clinic

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For information contact Lori Kleinfelt or Andrea Sundermann at 800-589-2632 or via email at [email protected].


F I N A N C I A L N E W S

n January 1, 2013, the United States Senate and

House of Representatives agreed to a deal to avert

the fiscal cliff. President Barack Obama signed

The American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 (“The Act”) into

law the next day. Below is a brief summary of the provisions

affecting taxpayers.

The Act makes permanent for 2013 and beyond the lower

Bush-era income tax rates for all taxpayers except for indi-

viduals with taxable income above $400,000 ($450,000 for

married taxpayers and $425,000 for heads of households).

Taxable income above these thresholds will now be taxed at a

rate of 39.6%. The Act preserves the lower marginal tax rates

established with the Bush-era tax cuts. Therefore, taxpayers

who now find themselves in the 39.6% marginal income tax

bracket will still benefit from the lower marginal rates.

The capital gains and qualified dividend rates will increase

from 15% to 20% for those taxpayers now in the highest mar-

ginal tax bracket. All other taxpayers will continue to enjoy a

capital gains and dividends tax rate of 15%. A zero percent

rate will continue to apply to capital gains and dividends

to the extent taxable income falls below the top of the 15%

bracket, which is projected to be $36,250 for single taxpayers

and $72,500 for married taxpayers.

Beginning in 2013, taxpayers will see a return of limitations

on itemized deductions. The phase-out of itemized deduc-

tions was eliminated in 2010 and was set to return in 2013

under the Bush tax cut sunset rules. The Act officially revives

the phase-out at an income threshold of $300,000 for married

taxpayers ($275,000 for heads of households and $250,000

for single taxpayers). Itemized deductions will be phased out

at a rate of 3% of the amount of the taxpayer’s adjusted gross

income over the applicable threshold. The phase-out will be

capped to limit the reduction to no more than 80% of other-

wise allowable itemized deductions. It is noteworthy that the

sunset rules would have allowed for a phase-out of itemized

deductions to begin at a threshold of $178,159 for married

taxpayers ($89,075 for single taxpayers).

The Act also revives the personal exemption phase-out

rules but at income thresholds slightly higher than in the past.

Under the new rules, the total amount of the exemptions that

may be claimed by a taxpayer will be reduced by 2% for every

$2,500 the taxpayer’s income exceeds an applicable threshold.

For 2013, the thresholds will be adjusted gross income over

$300,000 for married couples ($275,000 for heads of house-

holds, and $250,000 for unmarried taxpayers). Again, the

applicable threshold for phase-outs would have been $267,200

for married couples filing a joint return and $178,150 for

single taxpayers had the sunset provisions fully expired.

The Act also provides a patch to the Alternative Minimum

Tax (AMT) in 2012 and permanent relief in subsequent years

by increasing the exemption amount and allowing additional

nonrefundable credits that previously could only reduce the

regular tax to now offset the AMT. The patch provides for a

higher exemption amount for 2012, saving millions of tax-

payers from being subject to the tax. In addition, provisions

of The Act provide for an annual inflation adjustment to the

exemption amount beginning in 2013.

There are several provisions in The Act affecting estate

and gift taxation. The Act makes the $5 million exemption

amounts (indexed for inflation) permanent and retains the

unified structure for estate, gift and generation-skipping

transfer taxes. However, the top tax rate is increased from

35% to 40% beginning in 2013. The Act also permanently

extends the “portability” provision in effect for 2011 and

2012, that allows an executor of a deceased individual’s estate

to transfer any unused exemption amount to the individual’s

surviving spouse. It is important to note that absent this leg-

islation, the maximum estate tax rate was scheduled to revert

to 55% with an applicable exclusion amount of $1 million on

January 1, 2013.

The Act has a number of provisions that will benefit busi-

ness owners as well. It extends the higher Section 179 depre-

ciation limits through 2013. The Section 179 dollar limit is

Fiscal Cliff Averted with Eleventh Hour DealBrian LaFrenier, CPA, Partner at Beene Garter LLP

O


$500,000 with a $2 million investment limit on qualifying

property for tax years 2012 and 2013. Without this exten-

sion, the 2012 limitation would have been $125,000 (subject

to an inflation adjustment) with a $500,000 investment limit

(subject to an inflation adjustment). In 2013, the dollar limit

was scheduled to drop to $25,000 with an investment limit of

$200,000. In addition to the favorable extension of the Section

179 rules, The Act extends the 50% bonus depreciation rules

on qualifying property through 2013.

These are just a few of the highlights of the American

Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012. There are a number of additional

provisions affecting both business and individual taxpayers.

We recommend that you contact your tax professional for

additional information on how these provisions may affect

you.

Brian LaFrenier, CPA, is a Partner at Beene Garter with over 17 years of

experience. He has a strong focus on serving dental and private medical

practices. Brian has extensive experience in personal and corporate income

tax, audit procedures and consulting, mergers and acquisitions, monthly

bookkeeping and payroll services, financial statement preparation and cash

flow analysis.

The passion to do more.

Our local bank proudly supports theWest Michigan Dental Community.

Born here.

Growing here.

Staying here.

LocationsCascade Rd at Spaulding - SE

Northland Dr at Plainfield - NE Monroe Ave at Louis - Downtown

Wilson Ave at 56th - SW

(616) 956-9030foundersbt.com

Member FDIC

Specialties Include:

• Custom designed deposits• Equipment financing• Financing of partner buy-in and

practice purchase

• Flexible loan payments• Practice start-up loans• Real Estate Financing• Working Capital Lines of Credit

F I N A N C I A L N E W S


eciding whether to lease or buy an office for your

practice can be confusing, since each option has

significant advantages and disadvantages.

The final decision should generally depend on the amount

you can afford, the patient base you want to attract, the state

of the economy, and whether you are starting out or have a

mature practice.

Here’s a guide to help you evaluate the upsides and down-

sides:

Cost – In the long run, buying may cost less than renting.

However, in calculating the differences, consider that owner-

ship includes paying to maintain the building, parking lot,

landscaping and signage.

You’ll also be responsible for ensuring that the building is

accessible to the disabled. You may want to hire a property

manager, and that will add to your outlays.

Of course, if you lease, these expenses generally belong to

the landlord.

Investment – Owning an office diversifies your invest-

ment portfolio with another class of asset that may appreciate

in value. But consider the trade-off between the potential

for long-term gains against your business’s short-term cash

needs. You may not be able to quickly sell or get a good price

for the property if you run into a financial crunch.

Flexibility – while a landlord may limit the changes you

can make, ownership lets you make any alterations you want.

In addition, owning allows you to bring in partners, offer

more services, and rent your excess space – no questions

asked. You may also be able to build an addition to expand

your practice.

The downside of ownership is gauging the future potential

of the location. For example, the family-oriented part of town

where you build your office today could become run down

over time. Or your practice may be located near a thriving

mall that provides the high visibility needed by a successful

dental practice. But what happens if the mall closes? With a

lease, you could move to a more suitable location relatively

easily.

Another consideration: If you own the building and decide

to sell your practice, potential buyers may want the business

but not the property. Factor this possibility into your long-

range and retirement plans.

Income – Buying a large enough facility, or adding onto

the one you own, brings the possibility of renting out unused

space. You could wind up owning a multi-service center. If

this is part of your future goals, find out the occupancy rate

for commercial buildings in the area. Also, ensure that you

can charge enough rent to offset the costs of ownership and

that you can cope financially with vacancies.

Taxes – As an owner, you can claim depreciation deduc-

tions for the space over time and deduct mortgage interest

payments. These deductions minimize your business tax lia-

bility. You can also write off other property-related expenses,

such as repairs. When the property is sold, you may have to

pay tax on the depreciation claimed as well as capital gains.

As a renter, you can generally deduct rent payments as

business expenses for property used in your practice. You may

also be able to deduct other office-related expenses. Consider

the possibility of a short-term lease with incremental exten-

sions. This could give you the flexibility to adapt to changes

in the community and your long-range business and financial

strategies.

The decision is clearly complicated. Your advisers can help

you determine whether owning or leasing an office is the right

choice at this stage of your practice.

Richard L. Chrisman, CPA, MST is the Managing Shareholder of Hungerford,

Aldrin, Nichols and Carter PC, a Tax, Auditing and Business Consulting

firm with offices in Grand Rapids and Greenville, MI. The firm is celebrating

70 years of helping local businesses, including many area dental practices.

Ownership Isn’t for EveryoneSubmitted by Richard L. Chrisman, CPA MSTHungerford, Aldrin, Nichols & Carter, PC

P R A C T I C E M A N A G E M E N T

D


* Malpractice insurance is underwritten by Professional Solutions Insurance Company, 14001 University Ave., Clive, IA 50325. Professional Solutions Insurance Company is rated “A” (Excellent) by A.M. Best for financial strength and operating performance. A.M. Best ratings range from A++ to S. ©2012 PSIC NFL 9191 ALL

To learn more, call 1-800-718-1007, ext. 9191,or visit www.profsolutions.com.

Get competitive dental malpractice insurance coverage with protection you can trust

from an “A” (Excellent) rated* company—PSIC.


C L A S S I F I E D A D S

Established Dental Office Space –

2003 Burton SE (between Breton and

Plymouth). End unit with 720 sq. ft.

and a full basement, on-site parking,

adjacent 3 spaces occupied by estab-

lished dentists. Great traffic counts on

Burton in an established residential

area. Call Bruce at 942.9492.

Seeking Employment – General

dentist with several years of experi-

ence seeking part-time employment in

the West Michigan and surrounding

areas. Proficient in all areas of general

dentistry. A team player. Please reply to

[email protected].

Dental Office for Lease – Time to

move up? Busy northeast area dental

suite at 1750 Grand Ridge Ct. NE,

3295 SF, ten-year old modern dental

office available. 3 pvt ops, 4 chair bay

area, plumbed for nitrous, air, water,

power and vacuum, lab, x-ray, staff

area, pvt. office, reception, storage

available. Former pedo practice

obtainable Jan. 1st 2011. Contact

Dr. John Monticello 616.364.1700 or

[email protected]

Associate position wanted – Newly

graduated dentist from UDM looking

for full time position as an associate

of progressive dental practice in

Grand Rapids and surrounding areas.

Please call 616.617.9725 or email

[email protected].

For Sale – Lab Master Foster Model

Trimmer, Model # MT115, like new

$600. Contact 616.949.7510.

Dental Office for Lease – with imme-

diate availability. Near the “medical

mile” on primary road with high traffic

count and super visibility. Has been

a dental office for over 40 years. Very

good lease terms/rates. Would make

awesome start-up or satellite. For more

info, email [email protected].

General Dentist – Looking to purchase

a practice or pursue transition in

Grand Rapids area. Three years of

experience. Please email to:

[email protected].

Associate Position Wanted – Fourth-

year at University of Florida COD

and Michigan native seeking full-time

The classified ad rate is $10.00 up to and including 30 words; additional words 15¢ each. Space permitting, WMDDS members may

place ads free of charge as a membership service. Ads should be submitted in writing and sent with payment to Elaine Fleming,

WMDDS, 511-F Waters Building, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. Telephone numbers and hyphenations count as two words, abbrevia-

tions count as one word. Ads received after the first of the month prior to publication may appear in the following issue.

associate level opportunities in greater

Grand Rapids area beginning summer/

fall 2013. [email protected] or

248.568.0839.

Seeking employment – General den-

tist with eight years of experience

seeking part-time employment in

West Michigan area. Enjoys practicing

most areas of dentistry. Please email:

[email protected].

Dentist Needed – Full-time or part-

time at State of Michigan Correctional

Facility in Ionia, MI. Avoid headaches

of private practice. For information

please call Ken or Richard at

517.321.9313.

Ottawa County Health Department is currently in the process of recruiting a

part-time dentist to provide services on the county’s 40 foot, state-of-the-art

“Miles of Smiles” Mobile Dental Unit. The mobile unit provides compre-

hensive dental services at schools and Head Start Centers throughout Ottawa

County (Grand Haven, Holland, etc.). Please see attachment for additional

information regarding this exciting career opportunity!

Employment will involve 1-2 days per week (6 hours/day). Competitive wage.

If you are interested in this position, please e-mail a resume to:

[email protected].

Debra J. Bassett R.D.H., B.H.S.

Oral Health Team Supervisor

Ottawa County Health Department

12251 James Street, Suite 400

Holland, MI 49424

We look forward to hearing from you!


C L A S S I F I E D A D S

Beautiful, Professional Suite Available for Sale/Lease – N.W.

Michigan, lower peninsula, in a grow-

ing community. Great opportunity for

any dentist, with many extras. Ideal

location, safe and serene, for any

family. World-class cultural events,

restaurants and attractions nearby.

Sporting adventures abound.

Turn-key. Let’s talk. Call 231.313.8407

or [email protected]

Exciting Opportunities – for dentists

to provide children with dental care

in Grand Rapids area schools. No

evenings or weekends. Apply at

smileprograms.com or call Tracey at

888.833.8441, ext. 126.

Kavo Handpieces for Sale –

6000B have 5 at $400/handpiece,

6500B have 6 at $400/ handpiece,



649B have 2 at $200/handpiece.

Call 616-453-6323.

The Bulletin wishes to thank our valued

advertisers who support organized

dentistry by helping to defray the cost

of printing and mailing.

Advertising in the Bulletin is seen

by over 90% of the dentists in the

West Michigan District. This includes

five of the fastest growing counties

in the state: Kent, Ottawa, Ionia,

Montcalm and Mecosta.

For information on advertising rates,

call Elaine Fleming, WMDDS Executive

Secretary at 234-5605. Target your Market

– advertise in the Bulletin!

Beene Garter ......................................18

DDS Integration .... outside back cover

Davis Dental

Laboratory ............... inside front cover

Founders Bank & Trust ....................27

Great Lakes Financial Insurance ......20

Henry Schein ............inside back cover

Hungerford, Aldrin, Nichols &

Carter, PC ..........................................24

Keystone Pharmacy ..........................18

MDA IFG ...........................................15

Professional Solutions ......................29

A D V E R T I S E R I N D E X

The PoinTs of LighT ProjecT

If you would like more information regarding our project or would like to register as a participant, please visit our website at: pointsoflightonline.org.


olunteering your dental services may be the classic

“everyone wins” scenario. For underserved patients,

it’s a chance for badly needed care they might not

otherwise receive. For you, it’s a chance to have a positive

impact on a community and to connect in the most direct

way with the values that led you into a career of caring for

others. There’s no question about the need. While many

Americans expect a choice of dentists within easy reach of

home, in parts of the world, such as Africa, dental care is a

rarity, with just 0.4 dentists for every 10,000 people.1 Even in

the United States, availability varies widely. Counties in South

Carolina, for example, range from nearly nine dentists per

10,000 residents to less than one.2

Is Volunteering for You?Still, the choice to volunteer isn’t easy or simple, given

the demands you already face in caring for your current

patient load, and keeping your practice financially healthy.

Volunteering could be cutting into hard-earned vacation and

family time, or involve travel to places that entail health or

safety risks. That said, most dentists can find the right pro-

gram, region, and time frame for volunteering. The process

should start by asking yourself a few questions to determine

what type of volunteer you want to be. Do you have geo-

graphic preferences? Are you open to any adventure, or are

there places you just wouldn’t feel comfortable going? How

long can you realistically afford to be away?

Where and When?Once you’ve narrowed your focus, it should be much easier to

find the right opportunity. The American Dental Association

offers a wealth of information on travel tips and specific pro-

grams, searchable by country and region, program type, and

other criteria.3 For example, United Planet, an international

nonprofit organization that promotes volunteering, lists a

wide variety of short-term quests for dentists, ranging from

one to twelve weeks in countries from Asia to Latin America

to the Middle East.4

Preparing to GoSpecific issues, such as visa requirements, required vaccines,

and insurance will vary depending on the program and the

destination. The U.S. Department of State is an excellent

resource for travel warnings regarding specific countries, as

well as general information on foreign travel and emergen-

cies.5 One question only you can answer is whether you are

willing to shoulder all or part of your travel expenses. Some

of the larger volunteer organizations pay for travel, while

others save funds by asking volunteers to pay their own way.

Whichever option you choose, expect an experience that will

open your eyes. Also, don’t be surprised if you come home

feeling as if you received in personal experience as much as

you gave in improving the lives of others.

1, 2 World Health Organization’s World Health Statistics 2012 report.

See page 128 for U.S. statistics; page 130 for Africa.

3 American Medical Association Physician Volunteers page:

http://www.ama-assn.org/ama/pub/about-ama/our-people/member-groups-

sections/senior-physicians-group/physician-volunteers.page

4 For a list of programs available through United Planet, visit:

http://www.unitedplanet.org/healthcare-volunteer-abroad

5 Visit Travel.State.Gov at:

http://travel.state.gov./travel/cis_pa_tw/tw/tw_1764.html

Volunteering Your Professional ServicesSubmitted by Scott Hoag, Vice President, PNC Healthcare Business Banking

V O L U N T E E R I N G C O N S I D E R A T I O N S

V

WE’VE MOVED

Don’t miss our Equipment& Technology Specials!

Ask your Henry Schein Consultant for details.

Henry Schein Dental

2689 Walkent Drive NW, Suite F

Walker, MI 49544

Phone: 616-791-2358

Fax: 616-791-2973

STOP BY AND VISIT OUR NEW SHOWROOM!

©2012 Henry Schein, Inc. No copying without permission. Not responsible for typographical errors.

12BS7160_moved ad 1/23/13 4:25 PM Page 1

WEST MICHIGAN DENTAL SOCIETY

511-F Waters Building

Grand Rapids, MI 49503

PRSRT STDUS POSTAGE

PAIDGRAND RAPIDS, MI

PERMIT # 657

2013 WMDDS Winter Bulletin

Documents

Transcript of 2013 WMDDS Winter Bulletin