Invest now for the future
Article Abstract:
Dentists must support nationwide teen education programs to relieve concerns about dental office safety. Research reveals that high school freshmen are concerned about acquiring HIV infection from dental professionals. This fear surfaced after mass media reports of six dental patients who may have contracted HIV from their dentist. The American Dental Association (ADA) launched a nationwide adult educational campaign that described essential infection control procedures. This highly successful multimedia approach restored dentistry's credibility and rebuilt public faith. A similar program must be designed specifically for teens to address their concerns. Two adolescent health education programs were eliminated from the ADA's 1996 budget due to lack of funds. This decision may impact teens' long-term dental behavior as they approach the parenting phase of life. Dentists must lobby their ADA representatives to appropriate money for this important cause.
Publication Name: Journal of the American Dental Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0002-8177
Year: 1995
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Who will speak for dentistry?
Article Abstract:
The American Dental Association (ADA) must strengthen its recruitment efforts by establishing an enduring presence in all dental schools. Almost 75% of practicing dentists belong to the ADA, making it the dominant voice that speaks for dentists. This position is challenged by the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). The AGD is the major organization that promotes professional continuing education and has been a long-time partner with the ADA. In the summer of 1995, the AGD dropped ADA membership as a requirement for joining its organization. This action was designed to bolster sagging membership by attracting new, debt-ridden dentists. The AGD's separatism may fracture the unified representation that has served dentistry so effectively. To retain its position, the ADA must select a full-time faculty member from each dental school and enroll them in an extensive ADA training program so that they can influence students.
Publication Name: Journal of the American Dental Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0002-8177
Year: 1995
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Thinking outside the box
Article Abstract:
The author discusses the emerging demographics of graduating dentists, different from the past, with large numbers of Asians, Pacific Islanders, and women, for example. These new dentists have different world views than might be considered traditional. He states the challenge directly: "Why should we join the American Dental Association. What can it do for me?" He answers those questions, giving specific points of benefit.
Publication Name: Journal of the American Dental Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0002-8177
Year: 2000
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