Autoimmune and Inflammatory Conditions of the Oral Cavity: What You Might Be Missing in Plain Sight

The oral cavity has a way of telling bigger stories—if you know how to read the signs. What may appear as a routine lesion or minor inflammation can sometimes point to an underlying autoimmune or systemic condition. The challenge isn’t just spotting abnormalities; it’s knowing when something deserves a closer look. For many dental professionals, that gray area—between “common” and “concerning”—is where uncertainty creeps in.

Overcoming Operational and Workforce Challenges in Today’s Dentistry Market

The landscape of dentistry is evolving faster than ever and not just clinically. Behind the scenes, practices across the country are facing a new kind of pressure: staffing shortages, rising overhead, and the growing pains of digital transformation. The modern dental office isn’t just about great dentistry anymore; it’s about building resilient systems and teams that can thrive in an unpredictable market and everchanging world.

Why Dental Associations are Still Valuable in the Age of AI

With artificial intelligence transforming nearly every industry, some dentists may wonder: Will AI eventually make dental associations obsolete? The short answer is no. In fact, national, state and local dental associations are more important than ever — and AI will likely make them (and you!) stronger, not weaker.

Trust Begins with a Tap: The Role of Google Reviews in Patient Decisions

Google reviews have become an imperative compass to our day to day lives. When we are in an unfamiliar city and need a recommendation for a delicious dinner, what do we check first? Your engine light comes on and you need a good mechanic, what is the first place you consult? Google Reviews.

Caught in the Middle: The Current Dental Insurance Problems

Dental care is an essential part of overall health, yet the U.S. dental system is fraught with friction among its three main stakeholders: insurance companies, patients, and dentists. While each plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health access, their goals and expectations often clash—leading to confusion, frustration, and unmet needs.

Fluoride Misinformation: What Dentists Need to Know

As misinformation about community water fluoridation (CWF) spreads—whether in patient conversations or public forums—dentists must be prepared to respond with facts. A study by the Oral Health Coalition and Utah Dental Association found 78% of anti-fluoride arguments are misleading or false.

Photogrammetry: A Technological Innovation in Dentistry

In recent years, the field of dentistry has witnessed significant advancements, one of the most exciting being the adoption of photogrammetry. This technology involves capturing and processing images to create precise three-dimensional models and is revolutionizing how dental practitioners approach implant treatment planning.

Spark Inspiration, Growth in Your Dental Team

Conferences offer valuable opportunities for professional growth, knowledge exchange and networking. They provide a refreshing break from the daily routine and can be a fun experience for team members. Here are some of the many compelling reasons to consider using a conference to motivate your staff.

The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Modern Dentistry

Dentistry is always evolving, and technology is changing the way we care for our patients. One of the most exciting innovations making waves right now is Artificial Intelligence (AI). From improving diagnostics to streamlining treatment planning, AI is helping us provide more efficient, precise, and personalized care.

Healthcare Member Benefit Program Now Available!

Texas Dental Association members and their dental teams have access to a Healthcare Member Benefits Program. Read More

The Sound of Dentistry

Have you ever walked into your office first thing in the morning and taken a moment to realize how silent it is? Within the hour the radio will be singing, the ultrasonic cleaner will be buzzing, suctions will be vacuuming saliva, and your handpiece will be rocking and rolling. Your ears will be taking in the magic and chaos for several hours each day.

The Importance of Engaging with Your Dental Community

As dentists, we play a vital role in our communities, providing essential oral healthcare services to our neighbors, colleagues, family and friends. In addition to our day-to-day responsibilities at our practice, we have to remember that our practices are essential pillars of the community and play a crucial role in its overall well-being.

Tips for the New Grad

I can vividly remember the excitement of getting my cap and gown, graduation outfit, graduation invitations and grad rehearsal. I remember all of the graduation things! With all the enthusiasm of graduation coming up this month, I wanted to offer up a few tips for the upcoming graduating class of dentists.

Do not fear transitioning from your practice!

I hesitate to use the term 'retirement' since that should be the last thought on your mind when transitioning from active practice. I left my practice almost 12 years ago and now find myself busier than ever and very content with my lifestyle.

New Year, New Plan

Entering a new year presents an opportunity for dentists to reflect on the past, set goals for the future, and adapt to the always changing landscape that is our career. It can even be as simple as recognizing the small achievements and taking it a step further. Technology is certainly something that most dentists are buying into, and we’ve become spoiled with the wide availability of advancements in dentistry. Here are some tips for dentist owners as we enter the new year:

4 C’s of Healthy Office Culture

A dental office usually has more than just the dentist working. Office managers, front desk, dental assistants, dental hygienists — every person has a part to play and every person helps the office function as a cohesive unit. I have always viewed the dental team as family.

Hilton Israelson, DDS – A Remarkable Career Dedicated to Dental Excellence

Dr. Hilton Israelson, a renowned dentist and respected member of the Dallas dental community, passed away on Friday, May 19, 2023. He leaves behind a remarkable legacy as a practitioner of exceptional skill, a leader in his field, and a compassionate caregiver. With a profound dedication to dental excellence, Hilton made a significant impact on the lives of his patients and colleagues throughout his illustrious career.

The Necessary Art of the Ask

​Whether it’s asking for a second opinion, mentorship, patient reviews or referrals, requesting help is an important skill to develop. As a new dentist or associate building a career, it’s necessary to learn “the art of the ask” early on as it will help guide the path of your professional career.

Listening is Key

We spend years obtaining our undergraduate education, followed by four fantastic years of dental school, potentially more years in residency homing in on a specialty skill set, and many more hours of continuing education to be able to provide patients with the highest standard of care. After an abundance of years and thousands of hours stuffing our noggin with clinical research and the latest advances in technology, many dentists find themselves ready to talk about all the information they have acquired. However, in an ironic twist, the number one thing I have learned in my years in practice is patients just want you to LISTEN.

Maintaining Boundaries on Social Media

As a dentist, you want your patients to look forward to their appointments. So, using social media to share fun events or fun facts about you should make them want to visit you, right? It’s tempting to use your existing social media profile for both business and personal life, but here are several reasons why your brand account should be separate from your personal account.

Imposter Syndrome and Social Media Influence

Visualize the first item you reach for upon waking up. I'll give you a hint; this object is normally touched before the crust is out of your eyes.

Prioritizing Mental Health in 2023

Historically, dentists have had one of the highest suicide rates amongst any profession. Recent studies have reported that dentists are 17 times more likely to commit suicide than non-dentists. I repeat, SEVENTEEN times more likely. That’s a staggering statistic and it’s time for us to make a change.

The Power of Written “Resolutions” as We Set Goals in the New Year

As we approach the end of another year, it’s natural for all of us to reflect on the events that took place for the past 365 days. Whether our intention was to eat healthier, live a more active lifestyle, spend more time with loved ones, or read that book that’s been on our list for months, it seems that this time of year routinely brings about a season of reflection.

Gratitude in a Halloween-to-Christmas World

The holidays are officially upon us and if you need to add a little fuel to your anxiety, there are only 37 days until Christmas (but who’s counting?) Halloween ended and I immediately began to feel the pressure of the holiday hustle.

Giving Back to Your Community

The importance of giving back to your community can have positive benefits as not only a practice builder, but can also achieve a level of self-fulfillment not often recognized.

Dentistry and Pumpkin Spice Season

Summer has come and gone. Pumpkin spice latte season has begun. School is back in session and our clinics seem a bit calmer than usual. We have our seasons in this profession and it seems to me that September along with March are some of our not-so-chaotic months. Could back-to-school be the main culprit? Or would that be too easy of an explanation? Whether the lull is good or bad, there are many ways we can practice resiliency through the times ahead and find ways to improve.

Meet the Teacher– Dental School Edition

‘Tis the season… back to school season that is. “Meet the Teacher” night traditionally marks the end of summer break and commences the new semester. To celebrate the upcoming school year, I interviewed my good friend and colleague, Dr. Emily Eggart, a clinical professor at Texas A&M University College of Dentistry. Follow along for her perspective on current dental education trends, why she decided to teach and her thoughts about the future of our profession.

Why CE for your Staff is Great for Your Bottom Line

Continuing education is a must for all dental professionals. Not only is it required for relicensing, lifelong learning is essential for staff to keep up with changes in science, technology and state regulations. Providing financial support for continuing education shows staff that their practice office leaders see their value. In turn practice owners receive a hefty return:

Ask Me Anything: Why We Started a YouTube Channel

Today’s business owners know that social media helps drive awareness. Having a strong social media presence can help your practice stay in contact with patients and create new interest with prospective patients. Creating interesting content and sharing it regularly on your practice’s site shows your knowledge of dentistry and helps your website rank higher on Google, which in turn increases your chances of being found by those in need. Starting a text blog or video blog can provide answers to health questions to current and prospective patients, presenting you as a content expert and helping to drive business your way. DCDS member Stephanie R. Ganter, DDS, MS describes the video blog she started on YouTube with her co-host Robert G. McNeill, DDS, MD. Read More

Onboarding a New Associate

Are you hiring a new associate? I can only imagine that this can be a scary process for most practice owners, but I can assure you that it can also be a scary and stressful time for the dentist coming in. Having been an associate and a temporary dentist at several offices over the last eight years, I would like to offer my insight from the perspective of the associate to hopefully help the transition be positive and smooth for both parties.

Staffing Challenges Post-COVID

The dental world is not as we have known it! We are experiencing a staffing crisis, and it is difficult to find the right employee. The big question is: where do I to find the applicants for the position I need to fill?

Considerations for Treating the Advanced Aged Dental Patient

​It was once commonly thought that as a person reaches old age, he or she will become totally edentulous and a denture wearer. Several things have since changed society’s attitude and thought towards dentistry and the elderly. People are now living longer and desire to keep their natural teeth.

Do You Need An Amalgam Separator?

July 14, 2020 is the date you must have an amalgam separator installed in your office to comply with EPA amalgam waste regulations. Here's suggestions on what to look for.

Achieving work-life balance: A personal story

Juggling the demands of career and personal life is an ongoing challenge in dentistry. As DCDS member Stephanie Ganter, DDS, MS explains in this vlog, setting limits and looking after yourself can help you achieve the work-life balance that's best for you.

Let’s Talk Marijuana

Well my fellow Texans, let’s face it, the word is out — Texas has no income tax and a relatively low cost of living. What does this mean for us locals? On one hand, an inflow of residents means increasing traffic and housing costs; on the positive side, it also means an increase in business. As practitioners of the oral cavity, these new patients from other states may bring with them new oral and systemic health concerns to look out for — so let’s talk marijuana.

Ergonomics in Dentistry

It feels like yesterday being in the simulation lab where professors told you what you get use to now will be how you practice in the future. I vividly remember saying to myself, “This is just for the exam, I won’t work like this on a patient in the future.” However, they were right! Dentistry is one of the hardest professions on your body, and you need to be consciously aware of your body all the time to preserve it.

Utilizing Personality Testing to Build Team Dynamics and Understand Your Team

Building and maintaining a successful dental team is somewhat like conducting a symphony with many sections of musicians playing different instruments. A good conductor sets the tempo while directing and shaping the way the musical piece comes together. In order to do so, he or she must have an understanding of how sounds from each instrument blend best and complement each other. Likewise, a lead dentist or practice owner must understand his or her team members’ personality styles in order to create and foster a healthy working environment.

Top 5 Reasons to Bring Your Entire Dental Team to the Southwest Dental Conference

Conferences are a great way to increase skills, exchange information and develop professional or social contacts. Plus they can be out-of-the-ordinary fun for team members that need a break from the daily grind. Going solo may initially be seen as a financial benefit; but there are many more reasons to bring the whole dental team along to the Southwest Dental Conference (SWDC).

7 Tips for Staying Healthy in a Viral World

Staying healthy in today's viral world means more than simply washing hands and covering a sneeze with a tissue.

Sleep-Related Breathing Disorders and the Dental Team

Dentistry as a profession has been very successful at establishing a well care model that medicine doesn’t have, and has by nature of a more favorable practice model the opportunity to become an integral part of our patients' well-being beyond traditional dental care.

Early Dental Implant Failure and Vitamin D Deficiency

Take consideration of vitamin D deficiency as a contributing factor that could impact your patient’s dental health and healing after surgery.

The Increasing Importance of Digital Workflows

With digital workflows, we can quickly get diagnostic information and disperse that information to our entire team quickly.

Questions about water fluoridation? ADA statement addresses a recent study.

You have may have seen that JAMA Pediatrics just published a study that hints at an apparent association between fluoride during pregnancy and IQ. The authors of the study note its various limitations and the fact that additional research should be conducted.

5 Ways to Keep Yourself and Your Family Healthy During the COVID-19 Pandemic

As health care providers, it important for dentists to find ways to keep ourselves healthy as well as our families. This involves self-care habits, nutrition, exercise, sleep, and stress reducing techniques.

Finding Pandemic Silver Linings

Think about how the advice Clooney’s character in Up in the Air gives the unfortunate souls sitting across the cheap office furniture from him relates to our present moment in history. What opportunities may this national crisis offer each of us?

COVID-19 and Dentistry

After an eight-week shutdown of dentistry, another hurdle would stand in our way: the challenge of who would be comfortable leaving their homes for a dental visit.

Update on MIONJ and RANK-L Inhibitors

Bisphosphonates are widely known to induce osteonecrosis of the alveolar bone of the jaws. More recently, patients needing antiresorptive therapy for osteoporosis or bony malignancies are transitioning and beginning denosumab.

The Challenge of Reducing Aerosols

Aerosols and droplets are produced during many dental procedures, and they are our greatest concern.

2020 Southwest Dental Conference Update

The 2020 Southwest Dental Conference scheduled for August 21-22 will not occur this year as an in-person meeting. We find it both impossible and illegal for DCDS to perform its obligations due to the COVID-19 crisis.

DCDS Inducts 2020-2021 Board Members via Zoom Meeting

For the first time in the long history of the Dallas County Dental Society, the Board of Directors changing of the guard took place electronically, rather than in person due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Is your office prepared for a Texas Comptroller’s visit?

Now that dental offices are re-opened, the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts office will begin conducting their sales and use tax audits again. Is your practice prepared for a visit?

COVID-19 Staffing Considerations in Connection with a Temporary Office Closure

In an effort to support our members’ practices and to summarize some of the more frequently asked employment related questions as a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic, Dallas County Dental Society has assembled this Q&A.

COVID-19 Related Dental Practice Management Links

DCDS President, Dr. Brad Crump, provides COVID-19 related information that you may need to make informed decisions regarding your offices.

Letter from DCDS President on COVID-19

DCDS President, Dr. Brad Crump, summarizes the TDA and ADA information that YOU need to make informed decisions regarding your offices during the COVID-19 pandemic.

ADA President Tours DCDS Dental Assisting School

ADA President Dr. Chad Gehani toured DCDS Dental Assisting School (DCDSDAS) while on his trip to Dallas. The school, which is a subsidiary of DCDS, opened in June 2019 with the goal of providing a world-class dental assisting education to students.

Emotional Support Animals in the Dentist Office

Many times, our patient's furry companions will be labeled as emotional support animals or therapy animals. But are you required to let them in your dental office?

A New Home for Texas A&M Dental School’s Clinics

The opening of the college’s new 160,000-square-foot, nine-story Clinic and Education Building will enable the dental school to increase underserved patients’ access to care and shift from a traditional disciplined-based approach to a “whole health” educational model.

Sedation/Anesthesia Inspections

Sedation/Anesthesia Inspections are intended to assess the sedation equipment in your office, the paperwork completed in preparing patients for sedation and monitoring them during the procedure and an office’s plan to appropriately respond to medical emergencies.

Urge your Members of Congress to Repeal the Medical Device Tax

So, You Wanna Grow Your Practice?

Membership plans are designed to be offered to patients who lack insurance coverage or are searching for better dental coverage options.

Social Media in Dentistry

People like feeling a part of a social community, and reading stories of struggles and successes make us feel like we are not alone in the challenges we face in the dental world.