Drilling Down: Essential Dental Reads from MLMIC
Navigating the sheer volume of information in the dental field can feel overwhelming. How do you cut through the noise to find the insights that truly impact your daily practice? At MLMIC, we understand this challenge. That’s why we’re bringing you a hand-picked selection of vital articles, offering clear, concise summaries and direct links to the most relevant industry news and analysis. Consider this your go-to resource for staying sharp and well-informed.
Let’s take a look at our curations for the month of August.
University at Buffalo Oral Biologist Wins Global Award for Pioneering Tooth Enamel Study
Check out this groundbreaking study on tooth enamel led by Dr. Kwon at the UB School of Dental Medicine. The research, which earned Dr. Kwon prestigious awards, focuses on the genetic basis of weakened enamel, particularly in conditions like Kabuki syndrome. His team genetically engineered mice to mimic enamel defects by deactivating the KMT2D gene, revealing its role as an “on switch” for enamel-building cells and identifying eight other regulated genes. The study’s findings have implications beyond Kabuki syndrome, potentially aiding in organ regeneration and preventing birth defects. This research has also secured a $320,000 grant from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research for further independent study by Dr. Jung-Mi Lee, a key member of the team.
Learn more about Dr. Kwon’s research here.
Private Group Wants to Take Over Previously CDC-Led Dentistry Guidelines
The Association for Dental Safety (ADS) is taking over the development of dentistry guidelines for infection control, a role previously held by the CDC’s Division of Oral Health, which was dissolved on April 1. The ADS has formed the ADS Institute for Dental Safety and Science to manage these guidelines, covering areas like instrument sterilization and PPE usage. Michelle Lee, executive director of ADS, highlighted the need for updated guidelines, as the last major revision was in 2003. The institute plans to continue the CDC’s work on dental unit waterlines, establish an advisory panel and seek $2 million in grants for three years. However, the new institute will not handle all previous CDC functions, such as data collection or free school sealant programs. While ADS is open to the CDC resuming this role, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) remains skeptical, asserting its continued authority over national industry standards in oral healthcare.
Dental Community Raises Concerns as Delta Dental Buys 25 Practices in Wisconsin
Delta Dental, the largest dental insurance provider in the United States, has acquired 25 dental practices in Wisconsin from Cherry Tree Dental, sparking significant concern among local dentists and the American Dental Association. Critics, including Dr. Emily Eckdahl, argue that this presents a conflict of interest, as the same entity would be responsible for both providing dental care and determining insurance coverage, potentially prioritizing financial gains over patient needs. While Delta Dental states the acquisition aims to improve access, particularly in rural areas, and claims the practices will maintain independent leadership, the dental community worries this could be a “slippery slope” influencing future dental care in Wisconsin, which uniquely permits non-dentist ownership of practices. It should be noted that New York is one of many states that do prohibit ownership of dental practices by non-dentists.
American Dental Association Urges Reforms to Medicare Advantage Dental Benefits
The American Dental Association (ADA) is advocating for reforms to Medicare Advantage dental benefits due to concerns about limited access, lack of transparency and insufficient competition. A study by the ADA Health Policy Institute indicated that dental coverage in these plans often doesn’t improve oral health outcomes, and restrictive features contribute to unmet dental needs and financial barriers for patients. The ADA recommends that Congress and CMS investigate market concentration, incorporate dental-specific competition metrics and mandate uniform disclosures in marketing materials for clearer consumer understanding. They also push for improved network transparency, reduced administrative burdens for dentists and the inclusion of dental benefits in Medicare Advantage’s medical loss ratio calculation. While some experts acknowledge Medicare Advantage fills gaps in traditional Medicare, others question the value of supplemental dental benefits in relation to their cost.
Discover further insights from the ADA.
As we conclude this edition of MLMIC’s dental news, we hope these curated articles have offered valuable insights and kept you informed about the dynamic world of dentistry. Our goal remains to empower your practice by bringing you the most relevant industry research and developments.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram LinkedIn or Twitter to stay in the loop about the dental professional liability industry.
If you are not already a MLMIC insured, learn more about us here.
This document is for general purposes only and should not be construed as medical, dental or legal advice. This document is not comprehensive and does not cover all possible factual circumstances. Because the facts applicable to your situation may vary, or the laws applicable in your jurisdiction may differ, please contact your attorney or other professional advisors for any questions related to legal, medical, dental or professional obligations, the applicable state or federal laws or other professional questions.
