ADA Commons (American Dental Association)
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ACD CARES: A framework for a value-driven, ethical, and student-centered dental education
Dental education is renowned for its rigorous 4-year curriculum that consistently produces highly competent entry-level practitioners. However, the intensity of this training often leads to increased stress and mental health challenges among students as they strive to maintain pace in demanding programs. The prevalence of student issues related to stress and mental health is well-documented, with many students experiencing significant distress throughout their education.
The American College of Dentists (ACD) recently introduced a set of core values known as ACD CARES, an acronym for the ACD core values of accountability, competence, dignity, collaboration, advocacy, reflection, empathy, and stewardship. This paper proposes that dental educators should apply the ACD CARES values to the educational context to foster a more humanistic, student-centered learning environment. By integrating these values into the educational experience, we can help alleviate the mental health challenges faced by students without compromising academic rigor and prestige.
After introducing the need for this framework, we explore various interpretations and applications of each ACD CARES value within dental education. Faculty, administrators, and staff are encouraged to reflect on how these values can be incorporated into their teachi ng and institutional operations. Similarly, we urge students to embrace these core values as guiding principles for fostering a supportive and collaborative learning environment for all. The adoption of the ACD CARES values by academi c dentists has the potential to create a more positive and sustainable culture in contemporary dental education, enhancing the well-being of students while maintaining the high standards of the profession
VDA MEMBER PERKS ANNOUNCES EXPANDED ENDORSEMENT WITH iCORECONNECT
The VDA Member Perks Program has expanded its endorsement of iCoreConnect, adding five new services to its portfolio. Building on previous endorsements of HIPAA-compliant email, ePrescription software, and automated insurance verification, the new services include iCoreCloud for data backup, iCoreCodeGenius for medical coding, iCoreHuddle for analytics, iCoreHuddle+ for detailed practice metrics, and iCoreIT for managed IT services. These tools aim to enhance productivity and profitability for VDA members, who also receive exclusive savings on these services
Dentistry and the Law: The Difference Between ‘Non-Covered’ vs. ‘Disallowed’ Services
The article clarifies the distinction between non-covered and disallowed services in dental plan audits. Non-covered services are not included in the patient’s dental plan, often due to plan limitations, while disallowed services are covered but deemed non-payable due to issues like claim deficiencies or lack of documentation. Dentists must review their contracts to understand obligations regarding non-covered services and ensure compliance with HIPAA for patient-paid services. For disallowed services, contesting decisions may be possible depending on the agreement with the dental plan
President\u27s Message
Monthly update from Dr. Greg Guerra, D.D.S. with details of recent events, upcoming activities and news from the association
Dentistry and the Law: What You Should Know about Collecting Past-Due Accounts
Michigan law regulates debt collection practices for dental offices collecting past-due accounts. While practices can collect their own debts, they must follow specific restrictions regarding workplace communications. The law prohibits harassment, deceptive practices, and sharing debt information with employers or coworkers. Contact at workplaces must be discreet, civil, and cease if the patient expresses inconvenience. Communications are restricted between 9 p.m. and 8 a.m. without permission
Macomb Dental Society Offers More Than You May Think
Seasonal rhythms in Michigan coincide with the renewal of professional development opportunities offered by the Macomb Dental Society. Continuing education (CE) programs serve as a critical mechanism for maintaining licensure while advancing clinical competence across diverse domains, including pain management, infection control, ethics, and emerging treatment modalities. Over time, the Society has expanded its offerings to encompass specialized seminars, interdisciplinary discussions, and community-based events that integrate professional learning with collegial engagement. These initiatives not only enhance practitioners’ clinical knowledge but also foster collaboration, peer-to-peer exchange, and exposure to evolving practice management strategies. Moreover, partnerships with sponsors provide access to technical expertise, product training, and local business resources, thereby strengthening both clinical practice and operational efficiency. The Macomb Dental Society exemplifies how regional professional organizations can sustain excellence in dentistry by combining structured CE with opportunities for mentorship, networking, and community building
Bulletin Ninth District NY May 2025
In the May 2025 issue, the reader will find the following feature articles: Paul Revere - Founding Father and America\u27s First Forensic Dentist My 50th Year: A Gift of Smiles to the Orphans of the Dominican Republic Dr. Stanley Small: Role Model of Leadership and Dedication to the Dental Professions
Also included are your monthly President\u27s Message, event updates, continuing education opportunities, membership news and classifieds
Dentistry and the Law: Miscellaneous Questions about Dental Records
This column addresses the legal requirements surrounding dental records. Dentists must furnish copies of records to patients or those acting on their behalf (with signed consent), but the original records should always be retained by the treating dentist. Patient information regarding care and treatment is confidential and privileged; disclosure requires written patient consent unless specific legal exceptions apply, such as court orders, defense of a claim, or HIPAA compliance for treatment, payment, or healthcare operations. Dentists must also obtain a signed release from the patient (or guardian for minors) before displaying before and after photos for commercial use to avoid infringing on the patient\u27s right of privacy