The evolution of dental education and training

According to the Institute of Medicine and National Research Council (2011), the evolution of dental education and training has progressed from apprenticeships to formalized programs in dental schools as well as in a variety of off-campus locations. The Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as the accrediting agency for all undergraduate and advanced dental educational programs.

Nov 23, 2011 | USA

Disability insurance: A must for all orthodontists

Imagine that everything in your life (professional career, family, etc.) is perfect. Then out of nowhere the unimaginable occurs: you become disabled! What would you do if you were unable to run the day-to-day operations of your practice tomorrow because you suddenly became disabled? Would you call (a) your colleagues to see your patients and save your practice, (b) a placement service to find an orthodontist to cover your office, or (c) the AAO regarding suggestions about what to do?

Nov 10, 2011 | USA

The pinnacle of leadership: assessment and accountability

We all have goals, though admittedly some are more practical (make it to work on time today) than others (make it to work on time every day). But one goal we all share is to be represented by the best leaders available. Attention to assessment has been a key objective for leadership in higher education in general as well as dental education specifically.

Sep 13, 2011 | USA

Book review: 'Brooklyn-ese, Proverbs and Cartoons'

Dr. Lawrence S. Harte, a 21st century Ben Franklin, author, world traveler, sailor, magician, international lecturer and father of three children, is no less an astute practicing orthodontist who has practiced orthodontics for four decades in Livingston, N.J. Born and raised in Brooklyn, N.Y., Harte has become a prolific writer with a gift for telling it like it is in an innocuous manner. His unique humor, style and approach to life are clearly visible in his latest prose — "Brooklyn-ese, Proverbs and Cartoons."

Jul 19, 2011 | USA

Practical attitude and enthusiasm

When I began practicing orthodontics in 1975, advertising was virtually verboten. As time passed, more and more dentists and physicians began placing ads in newspapers, flyers, etc. to allure new patients into their practices. I believed that advertising should only be considered by word of mouth from happy patients.

Jun 27, 2011 | USA

Criteria for future dental student applicants

In the last few years, dental ethics and communication skills have increasingly been recognized as essential parts of the undergraduate curriculum, something that is laudable and significant but not enough. It has its dangers. If we recognize “ethics” as a separate, scrutinized academic subject, we might take from it that there is a time when one practices ethically and a time when one does not.

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