Advocacy on the Dental Workforce, Upcoming Events and More

As you may have seen in our recent news bulletin, continuing education opportunities abound this Fall. The most recent was our virtual monthly meeting presented by Dr. Marianna Evans regarding OSA and upper airway disorders on Tuesday. Those that attended left with a much greater understanding of this debilitating condition. Much thanks to our Education Committee for connecting us with Dr. Evans. On a related point, we are now about six weeks away from Tooth Talks. If you didn’t see the short video I recorded with Dr. Stephanie Lin, you can view it on our Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn accounts.

Advocacy continues to be in the forefront. Thank you to the nearly 100 dentists who signed our workforce letter! This is all being done to bring attention to a number of issues that we are faced with daily while practicing in the District of Columbia. Next steps, several representatives from DCDS met with DC Councilmember Christina Henderson and we are preparing for the September 16th Board of Dentistry meeting. Your support is critical. Mark your calendar for September 16th 9:00 – 11:30 AM. You have the option to attend either in person, at 2201 Shannon Place SE, or virtually. It is vital we show a united front on these important workforce issues, from expanding the population of dental hygienists to training new dental assistants.

We are also working to prevent Aenta Dental and Delta Dental from implementing new policies that will make it harder for DC dentists to receive full payment for the care they provide to patients who rely on dental insurance. An action alert will be sent out later this week with more details. You can also visit the DCDS website at dcdental.org/checkpayments for more information.

Finally, if you missed the last volunteer opportunity with St. Maria’s Meals, September 9th will provide another chance to come out and help others. This event will take place from 4:30 until 6:00 PM at the at James Cardinal Hickey Center (924 G St NW, Washington, DC) – Rain or Shine. Consider joining your colleagues to make a meaningful difference—one meal, one conversation, and one smile at a time.

Warm Regards,

Kim Menhinick, DDS, MS, FICD President 2026-2027

“I make a point to appreciate all the little things in my life. I go out and smell the air after a good, hard rain. These small actions help remind me that there are so many great, glorious pieces of good in the world.” – Dolly Parton

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