E84: Reflections from Recent Dental Conferences: Advancing Mobile Practices and Special Care
- Ashleigh Robinson
- Mar 26
- 3 min read
Attending professional conferences is always a joyful experience, allowing me to connect with like-minded individuals while staying abreast of the latest developments in our field. Recently, I had the privilege of attending two noteworthy events: the National Mobile and Teledentistry Conference and the Special Care Dental Association (SCDA) meeting. These gatherings offered rich insights into mobile dentistry and special care, and I'd like to share some of my reflections with you.
The National Mobile and Teledentistry Conference: Celebrating Innovation
The National Mobile and Teledentistry Conference, highlighted by the Denobi Awards, was a fantastic platform for recognizing contributions to the mobile dental industry. Being shortlisted for the awards was a significant honor, and meeting other professionals in the mobile dental field was inspiring. Many of these individuals, though not dentists, are tech-savvy and passionate about expanding access to dental services within their capabilities.
A memorable moment for me was meeting a devoted listener of the Residential Movement podcast. Her dedication to transitioning into mobile dentistry after becoming a successful practice owner was truly inspiring. It was a reminder of the impact our work has in encouraging career shifts toward innovative practice models.
Special Care Dental Association Meeting: Embracing Inclusivity and Academic Insights
I next attended the SCDA meeting, which had an academic focus, featuring many dentists who provide care to special needs patients, older adults, and those with complex medical conditions. This conference was enlightening and provided an opportunity to connect with peers. It was also a chance encounter with friends from dental school and former colleagues that made it a truly enriching experience.
Of particular note was a discussion led by Mary Foley, Executive Director of Medicare, Medicaid, and the CHIP program. Her insightful perspective on integrating ICD-10 codes to better align dental procedures with medical necessity was groundbreaking. However, it's important to recognize that the transition poses challenges, especially for private dentists, due to administrative burdens and reimbursement issues.
Challenges and Opportunities in Mobile Dentistry
A notable aspect of the SCDA meeting was the opportunity to connect with a fellow mobile dentist eager to expand her franchise model. While the buy-in is hefty, between $200,000 and $300,000, it's evident that there's growing enthusiasm for mobile practice as a lucrative career path. For those thinking of starting a mobile practice, remember that it can be accomplished with careful planning and investment, often at lower costs than expected.
Building a Sustainable Future in Dental Care
Our discussions highlighted a crucial issue: enabling sustainable, profitable models for dentists who wish to serve underserved populations without succumbing to financial losses. Mobile dentistry offers a promising avenue for such ventures, and I'm committed to supporting those interested in this path through the Dental House Call Practice Academy.
Looking Forward: The Importance of Conferences in Professional Growth
Attending these conferences reinforced the importance of learning about new dental technologies, materials, and techniques. They also serve as a reminder of the community of professionals committed to advancing dental care for underserved populations. If you share this passion, I strongly encourage you to attend similar events in the future. These gatherings are invaluable for continuous learning and connecting with professionals who care deeply about access to care.
Thank you for taking the time to join me on this journey through the latest dental conferences. I hope this insight will inspire you to engage further in the community of dental professionals committed to expanding access to care. Mark your calendars for future events, and don't hesitate to reach out if our paths cross—I would love to connect and hear your story.
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