TDA Editor Stephen R. Matteson, DDS, 76, died at his home in San Antonio on Tuesday, January 6, 2014. He was born October 2 in 1937. A funeral service was held on Saturday, January 11, 2014, at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in San Antonio.

Dr Matteson was first elected as TDA editor in May 2009 and served in that capacity and on the Board of Directors. He was instrumental in advancing the Association’s publications to improve their recognition nationwide among the dental profession. He received multiple national and international awards, including the American Dental Association’s Golden Apple Award, and the International College of Dentists (ICD) USA Section’s Golden Pen Award in 2012. Under Dr Matteson’s direction, the TDA created its newest publication Smart Mouth™, which received a Special Citation journalism award in 2012 by the ICD USA Section.

Dr Matteson received his DDS degree from the University of Pennsylvania in 1962. After 2 years as a general dentistry officer in the United States Air Force in North Carolina, he returned to his native state of New Jersey and practiced general dentistry for 10 years. In 1973, he sold his practice and completed a residency in oral radiology at the University of Connecticut Health Center. He then joined the faculty at the University of North Carolina School of Dentistry and served as director of radiology from 1975 to 1988.

He was recruited as chair of the Department of Dental Diagnostic Science at University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio Dental School in

1988, and served in that leadership role until 2000 when he retired and was appointed professor emeritus in 2002. He returned for a second career in academics and service to the profession in 2005. He was a key figure in establishing the Dental School’s NIH funded, evidence-based practice CATs program, which is a current monthly feature in the Texas Dental Journal.

Dr Matteson will be remembered for his many contributions to the dental profession. In the 1980s, he led the national panel that developed the original FDA-sponsored radiographic selection criteria for dentistry. He served as president of the American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology and the national supreme chapter of Omicron Kappa Upsilon, the dental honor society. He was also founding director and president of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology. His national leadership efforts were instrumental in obtaining specialty status for oral and maxillofacial radiology. His research focused on radiographic diagnosis. He published more than 60 articles in the scientific literature realm and served as radiology section editor of Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology, Oral Radiology and Endodontology. At the time of his death, Dr Matteson was an active participant in an oral and maxillofacial radiology group practice.

He lived in San Antonio with his wife Dr Mary Ann Matteson, professor emeritus at the UTHSCSA School of Nursing. He loved being with his 3 children and 5 grandchildren, all of San Antonio. He was most proud that they had good hearts and were caring and compassionate people. His passions were singing, golf, boating, photography, and North Carolina basketball.

Now that the New Year has arrived, the new CDT 2014 codes are ready for use. For Texas Medicaid that means the addition of 3 new codes that you can now begin reporting:

D0601 - caries risk assessment, Low RiskD0602 - caries risk assessment, Moderate RiskD0603 - caries risk assessment, High Risk

The descriptor of all 3 of these codes differs only by finding but specifies the inclusion of documentation. There are several Caries Risk Assessment Tools available, but Texas Medicaid dentists who are certified as First Dental Home (FDH) providers are familiar with the 10-question tool used as part of the FDH, visit tinyurl.com/k3dv4nm.

Since assessment is already being captured and maintained in the FDH patient chart, Texas Medicaid asks that providers begin reporting one of the 3 codes along with every submission of D0145. Again, this is an assessment that is already being done so the request is merely that one of the new risk codes is placed on the claim form with every D0145.

Please keep in mind that not every client is at high risk for dental caries by virtue of being covered by Medicaid alone. Although the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry tool does include a socio-economic question, that is not the case with the FDH tool used in Texas. Dr Preston Coleman states it quite eloquently this way, “I am just as likely in my practice to see a caries-free mouth in Medicaid as I am in the general population.” Continued on page 3.

JANUARY 2014 VOLUME 15, ISSUE 1 AVAILABLE ON TDA.ORG

CONTENTS• TDAMournsDeathofEditor

DrStephenRMatteson

• NewYear,NewCodes

• FDASeekingtoReclassify

HydrocodoneCombinationProducts

• TEXASMeetingPreview

• TexasDentalProgramMedicaid/CHIP

• TSBDERuleUpdate

• TDASmilesFoundation• Evidence-BasedPracticeTip

oftheMonth

• TDAPerksatSWDC

• President’sMessage

• MeettheStaff

- Diane Rhodes, Policy Manager

• MemberSpotlight

- Drs Daniel and Danette McNew

• DENPAC

JanuaryTexas Dental Journal 2014 TEXAS Meeting Preview

UpcomingEvents

January30-February1 Southwest Dental Conference Dallas

February7-8 Texas Mission of Mercy TDA Smiles Foundation Houston

Follow @theTDA on Twitter

Using your smart phone, scan this QR code to access the TDA Today on TDA.org.

Like us on Facebook Connect with us on LinkedIn

TDAMournsDeathofEditorDrStephenR.Matteson

NewYear,NewCodesDr John “JR” Roberts, Dental Director, Texas Medicaid and CHIP Programs, Office of Health Policy and Clinical Services

TDAT JAN 2014.indd 1 1/12/14 11:03 PM

JANUARY 2014 • TDA Today • 2

TexasDentalProgramMedicaid/CHIPImportant Medicaid/CHIP Message fromtheHealthandHumanServicesCommission

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) has been made aware of a dental organization, CivicSmiles by DeCare, soliciting providers to build a Medicaid/CHIP dental network. HHSC is not affiliated with this organization, which is not contracted to serve the Medicaid or CHIP population in Texas. For ongoing concerns, please send an email to the complaint/inquiry inbox at HPM_Complaints@hhsc.state.tx.us.

MarketingThe October 2013 TDA Today “Texas Dental Program Medicaid/CHIP” update included a section on marketing guidelines. Since the publication of that update, the TDA central office has received numerous questions about the ability of Medicaid/CHIP participating dentists to take part in community-sponsored educational events, health fairs, outreach activities, or similar community or non-profit events. The purpose of the marketing guidelines is to prohibit a Medicaid/CHIP participating dentist from exerting “influence” regarding a Medicaid/CHIP client’s or parent’s choice of provider. Unsolicited personal contact to promote a dentist or dental practice is an example of exerting “influence” and would violate Medicaid/CHIP marketing laws and guidelines. Unsolicited personal contact includes door-to-door solicitation, solicitation at a child-care facility or other type of facility, direct mail, or telephone with a Medicaid/CHIP client or the parent of a Medicaid/CHIP client.

However, the Office of Inspector General clarified that it is acceptable for dentists participating in Medicaid/CHIP to have oral health information available during community-sponsored educational events, health fairs, outreach activities, or similar community or non-profit events. Such dentists and their staff may wear identifying scrubs, use identifying table drapes, and make available toothpaste, toothbrushes, pamphlets, etc., that include the name of the dentist and/or dental office as long as the materials are not disseminated to Medicaid/CHIP clients, but simply made available to all event participants.

* Information for the above marketing article came from SB 8, 83rd Regular Session, and the Office of Inspector General.

Medicaid and the Comprehensive CareProgram

Texas Medicaid clients eligible to receive THSteps services may be able to receive certain medically necessary services through the Comprehensive Care Program (CCP), regardless of the limitations of Texas Medicaid. In Children’s Medicaid Dental Services, this benefit is administered by the Dental Managed Care Organizations — DentaQuest and MCNA Dental — and the CCP-eligible services are noted in the Texas Medicaid Provider Procedures Manual (TMPPM) as “CCP”.

Please note that the services noted as CCP eligible in the TMPPM still require a medical necessity determination. Providers that perform a medically necessary dental service outside the Texas Medicaid limitation (periodicity, etc.) should enter “Exception” in Box 35 on the claim form in order to prompt a manual review of the claim. The reviewers will look for language indicating the special needs of the client and the clinical rationale for the additional treatment. Finally, a determination is made on whether the proposed treatment meets clinical criteria and adheres to the appropriate standard of care. If the proposed service is not authorized, and the provider disagrees with the decision, the provider should then follow the appropriate appeals process with the DMO.

* The information above came from the Health and Human Services Commission.

VisitPerksatSouthwestDentalConferenceTDA Perks Program will be at Southwest Dental Conference in Dallas, January 30-February 1, 2014.

Visit TDA Perks Program partners in the Perks Aisle (Aisle 1300) and meet the Perks staff. And have your photo taken red-carpet style, thanks to the following generous Perks-Aisle sponsors:

• Dallas County Dental Society and the following Perks partners: • E-Claims & Eligibility Connect (EC&EC): Electronic insurance-management system• Insurance Answers Plus: In-depth patient insurance information• ProSites: Dental website design• Sedation Resource: Sedation equipment and supplies

Many more Perks partners will have booths in Aisle 1300. If you are attending the Conference, do not miss this opportunity to learn about Perks programs and ask questions in person.

happy healthy smiles... that’s our mission!

On February 7-8, 2014, Houston will host the biggest charitable dental event in Texas history. This Texas Mission of Mercy (TMOM) event will utilize more than 60 operatory chairs over 2 days. This charity event will be unprecedented in scale, but we need your help to make it a success. TMOM events depend on the generosity of Texas dentists. To volunteer or donate, please visit www.tdasmiles.org.

DentalLicenseRenewalQuestionnaire–DeadlineExtended

The Texas State Board of Dental Examiners (TSBDE) is extending the deadline for ALL Texas licensed dentists to complete the licensure questionnaire required by the legislature (HB 3201).

If a dentist already renewed his or her dental license and did NOT complete the questionnaire, the questionnaire must be completed before August 31, 2014. After August 31, 2014, dentists who have renewed their license but have not completed the questionnaire may be subject to disciplinary action or a fine.

If a dentist’s license expires AFTER August 31, 2014, the dentist will be completing the questionnaire as part of the online renewal at that time or the TSBDE will provide the dentist with further instructions on how to complete the questionnaire on the TSBDE’s website.

The questionnaire must be completed ONLY by the Texas licensed dentist. A third-party may not complete the questionnaire. Continued on page 4.

TSBDERuleUpdateThis recurring section is designed to help TDA members keep up with important Texas State Board of Dental Examiners (TSBDE) rules, other regulations, and state law affecting their practices.

RegisterNowforthe2014TEXASMeeting!SummerKetron,DDSCouncilonAnnualSession

The Council on Annual Session for the 2014 TEXAS Meeting would like to wish you a prosperous and Happy New Year! Although it may seem far away, the excitement of the TEXAS Meeting, held May 1-4, 2014, will close the gap sooner than you think!

As always, the annual meeting in San Antonio is going to be filled with fantastic speakers and continuing education for your entire staff. Do not wait to sign-up! The time is now! Along with some of the most impressive names in dentistry, we have sought out a few new faces we know you will love. We have worked hard to bring you variety and value with courses for everyone. Do not miss out on the class you really wanted to

take or that speaker you have heard about but never had the opportunity to see because seats are limited and will fill up fast! It is also a great time to meet up with colleagues and friends from all over the state! On Thursday night The TEXAS Party has been revitalized with something to do for everyone from great snacks and drinks, dancing to a fun local DJ, to a photo booth for your friends or even a golf simulator to show your skills. Sign up on Friday morning to support the TDA Healthy Smiles Golf Classic fundraiser held at the Quarry Golf Club. If you graduated with the class of 2003 or later, meet your classmates for happy hour on Friday at the New Dentist Party. As always, our fantastic exhibitors will be available throughout the meeting with great deals and new products to show you, not to mention the Exhibit Hall Happy Hour.

The host hotel has changed this year to the Grand Hyatt, right next door to the convention center, but as always the TDA staff has also worked hard to get us great rates at many of the hotels in the area. The housing registration opened in December, so it is time to make your reservations!

Visit texasmeeting.com to complete your meeting and housing registration or access the information in your December 2013 and January 2014 Texas Dental Journals. Start making plans, register, and get your staff excited for the 2014 TEXAS Meeting!

Can’t wait to see you in San Antonio for another exceptional meeting!

FDASeekingtoReclassifyHydrocodoneCombinationProductsIn early December 2013, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) submitted a formal recommendation to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to more restrictively classify certain pain medications prescribed by physicians and dentists. This began a process that will lead to a final decision by the Drug Enforcement Administration on the appropriate scheduling of these products, and could result in a reclassification of hydrocodone combination products into Schedule II.

There is concern that rescheduling hydrocodone combination products from Schedule III to Schedule II is likely to have a significant impact on both patients and dental and medical providers. In October 2012, the American Dental Association and the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons issued a joint statement expressing concern that the proposed reclassification from Schedule III to the more restrictive Schedule II “could cause inconvenience, unnecessary suffering, and higher out-of-pocket costs for patients with a legitimate need” for the medications. The Texas Dental Association will continue monitoring this issue at the national level and will send members updates on the issue as soon as they become available.

TDAT JAN 2014.indd 2 1/12/14 11:03 PM

President’sStatementDavid A. Duncan, DDS, TDA President

Happy New Year! Hard to believe another year has passed so quickly. I heard it once said that the older we get the faster time flies. If that is true then I am officially getting old. While we certainly had our share of excitement over the last 7 months I have to tell you that I am hoping for calmer waters as we sail into 2014.

I am excited about new beginnings and possibilities that come with a new year, yet I always seem to somewhat dread “starting over” after that long awaited break we get with the holidays.

I hope you will try and make it to the meetings in Dallas and Houston this year. They offer great continuing education opportunities and a chance for you to be involved in your profession. The time and effort put into planning these meetings certainly shows and you will not be disappointed.

In regards to TDA happenings, a search committee has been selected and has started the work of finding a new Executive Director. The pension plan investigation is progressing and a new plan for TDA employees is in place. And, our staff is doing an excellent job of conducting business in the manner we are accustomed.

I hope you have a wonderful 2014!

MEETYOURSTAFF

SPOTLIGHTTDA MEMBER

DianeRhodesPolicy Manager

Similar to FDH risk reporting, there are other dental services that have a caries risk component, such as:

• FDH D0145• X-rays D0210-D0330• Fluoride D1206, D1208• Sealants D1351

These codes lend themselves to reporting in conjunction with a risk assessment code as well as the service code, and in fact have well established guidelines dependent upon a patient’s risk for developing dental caries. For example, refer to the American Dental Association (ADA) Radiation Exposure Guidelines at this link: tinyurl.com/cah8ejd.

In summary, we only ask that you start using the risk codes. Please consider including one of the three caries risk assessment codes on every claim form that contains one of the following codes: 0145, 0210-0330, 1206, 1208, 1351. This will assist us in data capture as we move forward and strive to make Texas Medicaid the best in the nation.

Also new this year, remember that diagnostic codes are now being captured on the ADA 2012 claim form, Box 34a. For most of us dentists that means waiting until our practice software incorporates drop-down boxes of reasons codes for every procedure we report (ie, filling --> recurrent decay; crown --> broken cusp) as opposed to memorizing all of the ICD-10 diagnostic codeset. To the extent that you already use them, you know who you are and where to put them. The Texas Medicaid & Healthcare Partnership has published an excellent provider notification banner message on this subject at this link: tinyurl.com/lce47ce.

Year,NewCodesContinued from page 1

DanielP.McNew,DDS•DallasDanetteMcNew,DDS•Rockwall

This past Christmas, what did you do for a tree? Did you display an artificial tree? Or, did you visit a tree lot on the side of the road and pick up a live, pre-cut? Or, maybe, you went for the traditional experience and cut one yourself, visiting a tree farm, cider in hand, to harvest the perfect tree.

Chances are, if you chose the latter and you live in the Dallas area, you might have visited the McNew Star M Christmas Tree Plantation, operated by Dr Daniel P. and Claudette McNew of Dallas and their daughter Dr Danette McNew of Rockwall.

Dr Dan is a 1963 graduate of Baylor College of Dentistry, and he is a life member of TDA. Dr Danette is a 1988 graduate of Texas A&M/Baylor College of Dentistry. She is a clinical instructor for the Department of General Dentistry at the university and operates a private practice in Rockwall. She is the chair of the

TDA Communications Committee and president of the Dallas County Dental Society.

The McNew family established the tree farm in 1979 when they planted approximately 3,000 Virginia Pine seedlings, says Claudette McNew. It’s located in Hunt County between Farm to Market Roads 35 and 36.

The name for the family tree farm came easy, says Mrs McNew. “The star relates to the 5 points representing 5 family members.” The McNews have 3 daughters, including Dr Danette, who help their father and mother during the Christmas season. Dr Dan and Mrs McNew work the tree farm all year long.

“Our mission statement is to provide country-style Christmas memories for our visitors,” says Mrs. McNew. On the farm is a gift shop, which offers visitors hot cider and chocolate, and Santa Claus visits on Saturdays during the Christmas season, which begins for the McNews the day after Thanksgiving. Dr Dan drives the mini-train through the forest, and children and families can take advantages of the playground and picnic area. Visitors can use a bow saw to harvest their chosen trees.

The McNews explain that the tree species grown in east Texas areas are Virginia Plantation Pines, Leyland, and Arizona Cypress. The McNews are members of the Texas Christmas Tree Growers Association (TCTGA), which allows them to obtain Virginia Pine seedlings from its orchard. It takes 6 to 7 years to grow a 6- to 7-foot tree.

“Whether I am driving the tractor and hay wagon, cutting down and trimming trees, making wreaths or being the cashier in the gift shop, this unique experience reminds me of what family holidays are about,” says Dr Danette.

Since Mrs McNew is the president of the TCTGA, she and Dr McNew had the privilege of delivering Christmas trees to the Texas Capitol in 2013. “This presentation signals the beginning of the Capitol Christmas celebration,” says Dr Dan. “The TCTGA does this every year. We were honored to present the trees this year.”

This honor, along with the joy that live Christmas trees bring to people, creates memories for the McNews. “The family works, eats, and plays together during this time, which is a blessing for us,” says Mrs McNew.

For more information on the McNew Star M Christmas Tree Plantation, visit christmastreemcnew.com.

As the president of the Texas Christmas Tree Growers Association, Dr and Mrs Dan McNew of Dallas deliver the official state Christmas tree of Texas to the Capitol in Austin in December 2013.

Dr and Mrs Dan McNew of Dallas and Dr Danette McNew of Rockwall work their family tree farm in Hunt County, the McNew Star M Christmas Tree Plantation, during the holidays.

This recurring section highlights the lives of TDA members outside of the office. If you have an interesting story about yourself, if you are working on a project that your peers might find interesting, or if you have a hobby that keeps you busy, please contact TDA Managing Editor Nicole Scott, nicole@tda.org, 512-443-3675.

“Change”fortheNewYearThe New Year brings us the chance to make changes in our lives. Many of us will compile a list of resolutions to improve our health, home, and overall happiness. This year resolve to promote positive change for the profession of dentistry through DENPAC’s CHANGEEXCHANGE.

DENPAC is inviting all TDA members to use their small change to promote big change for dentistry in Texas. Simply find a container of your choice and collect your pocket change throughout the 2014 PAC year. Members can either contribute individually or combine their collection with members of their local component. Each component society recently received an official Change Exchange container, compliments of DENPAC. Components are encouraged to compete to see who will collect the most “change for change.”

To find out more about the DENPACCHANGEEXCHANGE or to request your “official” Change Exchange sticker for your coin collector, visit denpac.org!

*denpac.org

Diane joined the TDA in 2001. She is the policy manager in the Department of Legislative and Regulatory Affairs. Chances are that you have probably met, talked to, or seen Diane over the years. Besides answering member questions on policy and regulations over the phone and email, Diane spends

much of her time working with the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners and at the Capitol. Diane is part of TDA’s successful legislative team that ensures the TDA has an effective voice in the legislative process and state government.

Wheredidyougrowup?Waco, Texas

Wheredidyougotoschoolandwhatdidyoudobeforeyoucamehere?I graduated from Baylor University, home of the 2013 Big 12 Conference Champions. Sic ‘em, Bears! Before joining the TDA’s legislative team, I worked as a legislative aide for State Representative Tom Ramsay and in the Governor’s office under Governor George Bush. Working at the legislature was fast paced, interesting, and most informative. I never imagined at the time that I would become a dental advocate. The first 2 bills that I was responsible for as a legislative aide in 1999 included HB 1389, otherwise known as “hogs and dogs,” and HB 2619 governing oil filter recycling. Both are a far cry from health care. In the Governor’s office, I provided technical assistance to communities in drafting state and federal grant applications and helped the internal grants team review grant applications for state funding.

WhydidyoudecidetocometotheTexasDentalAssociation?When former Governor Bush won the presidential election in 2000, he offered staff an opportunity to go with him to Washington, DC. However, I did not see myself living in D.C. and decided to stay in Austin.

Whatisyourfavoritethingaboutthejob?By far, the most satisfying part of my job is when I am able to answer members questions and give them the resources necessary to meet all of the legislative and regulatory requirements to practice dentistry in Texas. No matter the environment in which a member practices, TDA member dentists know that they can always contact me or anyone in the legislative affairs department for practice assistance. Additionally, I enjoy being part of the TDA’s legislative team that works tirelessly to stay on top of key issues affecting dentistry at both the state and federal levels.

Whatisonethingaboutyouthatmightsurprisepeople?I know the NATO phonetic alphabet by heart. Don’t ask.

TDAT JAN 2014.indd 3 1/12/14 11:03 PM

JANUARY 2014 • TDA Today • 2

TexasDentalProgramMedicaid/CHIPImportant Medicaid/CHIP Message fromtheHealthandHumanServicesCommission

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) has been made aware of a dental organization, CivicSmiles by DeCare, soliciting providers to build a Medicaid/CHIP dental network. HHSC is not affiliated with this organization, which is not contracted to serve the Medicaid or CHIP population in Texas. For ongoing concerns, please send an email to the complaint/inquiry inbox at HPM_Complaints@hhsc.state.tx.us.

MarketingThe October 2013 TDA Today “Texas Dental Program Medicaid/CHIP” update included a section on marketing guidelines. Since the publication of that update, the TDA central office has received numerous questions about the ability of Medicaid/CHIP participating dentists to take part in community-sponsored educational events, health fairs, outreach activities, or similar community or non-profit events. The purpose of the marketing guidelines is to prohibit a Medicaid/CHIP participating dentist from exerting “influence” regarding a Medicaid/CHIP client’s or parent’s choice of provider. Unsolicited personal contact to promote a dentist or dental practice is an example of exerting “influence” and would violate Medicaid/CHIP marketing laws and guidelines. Unsolicited personal contact includes door-to-door solicitation, solicitation at a child-care facility or other type of facility, direct mail, or telephone with a Medicaid/CHIP client or the parent of a Medicaid/CHIP client.

However, the Office of Inspector General clarified that it is acceptable for dentists participating in Medicaid/CHIP to have oral health information available during community-sponsored educational events, health fairs, outreach activities, or similar community or non-profit events. Such dentists and their staff may wear identifying scrubs, use identifying table drapes, and make available toothpaste, toothbrushes, pamphlets, etc., that include the name of the dentist and/or dental office as long as the materials are not disseminated to Medicaid/CHIP clients, but simply made available to all event participants.

* Information for the above marketing article came from SB 8, 83rd Regular Session, and the Office of Inspector General.

Medicaid and the Comprehensive CareProgram

Texas Medicaid clients eligible to receive THSteps services may be able to receive certain medically necessary services through the Comprehensive Care Program (CCP), regardless of the limitations of Texas Medicaid. In Children’s Medicaid Dental Services, this benefit is administered by the Dental Managed Care Organizations — DentaQuest and MCNA Dental — and the CCP-eligible services are noted in the Texas Medicaid Provider Procedures Manual (TMPPM) as “CCP”.

Please note that the services noted as CCP eligible in the TMPPM still require a medical necessity determination. Providers that perform a medically necessary dental service outside the Texas Medicaid limitation (periodicity, etc.) should enter “Exception” in Box 35 on the claim form in order to prompt a manual review of the claim. The reviewers will look for language indicating the special needs of the client and the clinical rationale for the additional treatment. Finally, a determination is made on whether the proposed treatment meets clinical criteria and adheres to the appropriate standard of care. If the proposed service is not authorized, and the provider disagrees with the decision, the provider should then follow the appropriate appeals process with the DMO.

* The information above came from the Health and Human Services Commission.

VisitPerksatSouthwestDentalConferenceTDA Perks Program will be at Southwest Dental Conference in Dallas, January 30-February 1, 2014.

Visit TDA Perks Program partners in the Perks Aisle (Aisle 1300) and meet the Perks staff. And have your photo taken red-carpet style, thanks to the following generous Perks-Aisle sponsors:

• Dallas County Dental Society and the following Perks partners: • E-Claims & Eligibility Connect (EC&EC): Electronic insurance-management system• Insurance Answers Plus: In-depth patient insurance information• ProSites: Dental website design• Sedation Resource: Sedation equipment and supplies

Many more Perks partners will have booths in Aisle 1300. If you are attending the Conference, do not miss this opportunity to learn about Perks programs and ask questions in person.

happy healthy smiles... that’s our mission!

On February 7-8, 2014, Houston will host the biggest charitable dental event in Texas history. This Texas Mission of Mercy (TMOM) event will utilize more than 60 operatory chairs over 2 days. This charity event will be unprecedented in scale, but we need your help to make it a success. TMOM events depend on the generosity of Texas dentists. To volunteer or donate, please visit www.tdasmiles.org.

DentalLicenseRenewalQuestionnaire–DeadlineExtended

The Texas State Board of Dental Examiners (TSBDE) is extending the deadline for ALL Texas licensed dentists to complete the licensure questionnaire required by the legislature (HB 3201).

If a dentist already renewed his or her dental license and did NOT complete the questionnaire, the questionnaire must be completed before August 31, 2014. After August 31, 2014, dentists who have renewed their license but have not completed the questionnaire may be subject to disciplinary action or a fine.

If a dentist’s license expires AFTER August 31, 2014, the dentist will be completing the questionnaire as part of the online renewal at that time or the TSBDE will provide the dentist with further instructions on how to complete the questionnaire on the TSBDE’s website.

The questionnaire must be completed ONLY by the Texas licensed dentist. A third-party may not complete the questionnaire. Continued on page 4.

TSBDERuleUpdateThis recurring section is designed to help TDA members keep up with important Texas State Board of Dental Examiners (TSBDE) rules, other regulations, and state law affecting their practices.

RegisterNowforthe2014TEXASMeeting!SummerKetron,DDSCouncilonAnnualSession

The Council on Annual Session for the 2014 TEXAS Meeting would like to wish you a prosperous and Happy New Year! Although it may seem far away, the excitement of the TEXAS Meeting, held May 1-4, 2014, will close the gap sooner than you think!

As always, the annual meeting in San Antonio is going to be filled with fantastic speakers and continuing education for your entire staff. Do not wait to sign-up! The time is now! Along with some of the most impressive names in dentistry, we have sought out a few new faces we know you will love. We have worked hard to bring you variety and value with courses for everyone. Do not miss out on the class you really wanted to

take or that speaker you have heard about but never had the opportunity to see because seats are limited and will fill up fast! It is also a great time to meet up with colleagues and friends from all over the state! On Thursday night The TEXAS Party has been revitalized with something to do for everyone from great snacks and drinks, dancing to a fun local DJ, to a photo booth for your friends or even a golf simulator to show your skills. Sign

Classic fundraiser held at the Quarry Golf Club. If you graduated with the class of 2003 or later, meet your classmates for happy hour on Friday at the New Dentist Party. As always, our fantastic exhibitors will be available throughout the meeting with great deals and new products to show you, not to mention the Exhibit Hall Happy Hour.

The host hotel has changed this year to the Grand Hyatt, right

has also worked hard to get us great rates at many of the hotels in the area. The housing registration opened in December, so it is time to make your reservations!

Visit texasmeeting.com to complete your meeting and housing

and January 2014 Texas Dental Journals. Start making plans, register, and get your staff excited for the 2014 TEXAS Meeting!

Can’t wait to see you in San Antonio for another exceptional meeting!

FDASeekingtoReclassifyHydrocodoneCombinationProductsIn early December 2013, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) submitted a formal recommendation to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to more restrictively classify certain pain medications prescribed by physicians and dentists. This began a process that will lead to a final decision by the Drug Enforcement Administration on the appropriate scheduling of these products, and could result in a reclassification of hydrocodone combination products into Schedule II.

There is concern that rescheduling hydrocodone combination products from Schedule III to Schedule II is likely to have a significant impact on both patients and dental and medical providers. In October 2012, the American Dental Association and the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons issued a joint statement expressing concern that the proposed reclassification from Schedule III to the more restrictive Schedule II “could cause inconvenience, unnecessary suffering, and higher out-of-pocket costs for patients with a legitimate need” for the medications. The Texas Dental Association will continue monitoring this issue at the national level and will send members updates on the issue as soon as they become available.

TDAT JAN 2014.indd 2 1/12/14 11:03 PM

President’sStatementDavid A. Duncan, DDS, TDA President

Happy New Year! Hard to believe another year has passed so quickly. I heard it once said that the older we get the faster time flies. If that is true then I am officially getting old. While we certainly had our share of excitement over the last 7 months I have to tell you that I am hoping for calmer waters as we sail into 2014.

I am excited about new beginnings and possibilities that come with a new year, yet I always seem to somewhat dread “starting over” after that long awaited break we get with the holidays.

I hope you will try and make it to the meetings in Dallas and Houston this year. They offer great continuing education opportunities and a chance for you to be involved in your profession. The time and effort put into planning these meetings certainly shows and you will not be disappointed.

In regards to TDA happenings, a search committee has been selected and has started the work of finding a new Executive Director. The pension plan investigation is progressing and a new plan for TDA employees is in place. And, our staff is doing an excellent job of conducting business in the manner we are accustomed.

I hope you have a wonderful 2014!

MEETYOURSTAFF

SPOTLIGHTTDA MEMBER

DianeRhodesPolicy Manager

Similar to FDH risk reporting, there are other dental services that have a caries risk component, such as:

• FDH D0145• X-rays D0210-D0330• Fluoride D1206, D1208• Sealants D1351

These codes lend themselves to reporting in conjunction with a risk assessment code as well as the service code, and in fact have well established guidelines dependent upon a patient’s risk for developing dental caries. For example, refer to the American Dental Association (ADA) Radiation Exposure Guidelines at this link: tinyurl.com/cah8ejd.

In summary, we only ask that you start using the risk codes. Please consider including one of the three caries risk assessment codes on every claim form that contains one of the following codes: 0145, 0210-0330, 1206, 1208, 1351. This will assist us in data capture as we move forward and strive to make Texas Medicaid the best in the nation.

Also new this year, remember that diagnostic codes are now being captured on the ADA 2012 claim form, Box 34a. For most of us dentists that means waiting until our practice software incorporates drop-down boxes of reasons codes for every procedure we report (ie, filling --> recurrent decay; crown --> broken cusp) as opposed to memorizing all of the ICD-10 diagnostic codeset. To the extent that you already use them, you know who you are and where to put them. The Texas Medicaid & Healthcare Partnership has published an excellent provider notification banner message on this subject at this link: tinyurl.com/lce47ce.

NewYear,NewCodesContinued from page 1

DanielP.McNew,DDS•DallasDanetteMcNew,DDS•Rockwall

This past Christmas, what did you do for a tree? Did you display an artificial tree? Or, did you visit a tree lot on the side of the road and pick up a live, pre-cut? Or, maybe, you went for the traditional experience and cut one yourself, visiting a tree farm, cider in hand, to harvest the perfect tree.

Chances are, if you chose the latter and you live in the Dallas area, you might have visited the McNew Star M Christmas Tree Plantation, operated by Dr Daniel P. and Claudette McNew of Dallas and their daughter Dr Danette McNew of Rockwall.

Dr Dan is a 1963 graduate of Baylor College of Dentistry, and he is a life member of TDA. Dr Danette is a 1988 graduate of Texas A&M/Baylor College of Dentistry. She is a clinical instructor for the Department of General Dentistry at the university and operates a private practice in Rockwall. She is the chair of the

TDA Communications Committee and president of the Dallas County Dental Society.

The McNew family established the tree farm in 1979 when they planted approximately 3,000 Virginia Pine seedlings, says Claudette McNew. It’s located in Hunt County between Farm to Market Roads 35 and 36.

The name for the family tree farm came easy, says Mrs McNew. “The star relates to the 5 points representing 5 family members.” The McNews have 3 daughters, including Dr Danette, who help their father and mother during the Christmas season. Dr Dan and Mrs McNew work the tree farm all year long.

“Our mission statement is to provide country-style Christmas memories for our visitors,” says Mrs. McNew. On the farm is a gift shop, which offers visitors hot cider and chocolate, and Santa Claus visits on Saturdays during the Christmas season, which begins for the McNews the day after Thanksgiving. Dr Dan drives the mini-train through the forest, and children and families can take advantages of the playground and picnic area. Visitors can use a bow saw to harvest their chosen trees.

The McNews explain that the tree species grown in east Texas areas are Virginia Plantation Pines, Leyland, and Arizona Cypress. The McNews are members of the Texas Christmas Tree Growers Association (TCTGA), which allows them to obtain Virginia Pine seedlings from its orchard. It takes 6 to 7 years to grow a 6- to 7-foot tree.

“Whether I am driving the tractor and hay wagon, cutting down and trimming trees, making wreaths or being the cashier in the gift shop, this unique experience reminds me of what family holidays are about,” says Dr Danette.

Since Mrs McNew is the president of the TCTGA, she and Dr McNew had the privilege of delivering Christmas trees to the Texas Capitol in 2013. “This presentation signals the beginning of the Capitol Christmas celebration,” says Dr Dan. “The TCTGA does this every year. We were honored to present the trees this year.”

This honor, along with the joy that live Christmas trees bring to people, creates memories for the McNews. “The family works, eats, and plays together during this time, which is a blessing for us,” says Mrs McNew.

For more information on the McNew Star M Christmas Tree Plantation, visit christmastreemcnew.com.

As the president of the Texas Christmas Tree Growers Association, Dr and Mrs Dan McNew of Dallas deliver the official state Christmas tree of Texas to the Capitol in Austin in December 2013.

Dr and Mrs Dan McNew of Dallas and Dr Danette McNew of Rockwall work their family tree farm in Hunt County, the McNew Star M Christmas Tree Plantation, during the holidays.

This recurring section highlights the lives of TDA members outside of the office. If you have an interesting story about yourself, if you are working on a project that your peers might find interesting, or if you have a hobby that keeps you busy, please contact TDA Managing Editor Nicole Scott, nicole@tda.org, 512-443-3675.

“Change”fortheNewYearThe New Year brings us the chance to make changes in our lives. Many of us will compile a list of resolutions to improve our health, home, and overall happiness. This year resolve to promote positive change for the profession of dentistry through DENPAC’s CHANGEEXCHANGE.

DENPAC is inviting all TDA members to use their small change to promote big change for dentistry in Texas. Simply find a container of your choice and collect your pocket change throughout the 2014 PAC year. Members can either contribute individually or combine their collection with members of their local component. Each component society recently received an official Change Exchange container, compliments of DENPAC. Components are encouraged to compete to see who will collect the most “change for change.”

To find out more about the DENPACCHANGEEXCHANGE or to request your “official” Change Exchange sticker for your coin collector, visit denpac.org!

*denpac.org

Diane joined the TDA in 2001. She is the policy manager in the Department of Legislative and Regulatory Affairs. Chances are that you have probably met, talked to, or seen Diane over the years. Besides answering member questions on policy and regulations over the phone and email, Diane spends

much of her time working with the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners and at the Capitol. Diane is part of TDA’s successful legislative team that ensures the TDA has an effective voice in the legislative process and state government.

Wheredidyougrowup?Waco, Texas

Wheredidyougotoschoolandwhatdidyoudobeforeyoucamehere?I graduated from Baylor University, home of the 2013 Big 12 Conference Champions. Sic ‘em, Bears! Before joining the TDA’s legislative team, I worked as a legislative aide for State Representative Tom Ramsay and in the Governor’s office under Governor George Bush. Working at the legislature was fast paced, interesting, and most informative. I never imagined at the time that I would become a dental advocate. The first 2 bills that I was responsible for as a legislative aide in 1999 included HB 1389, otherwise known as “hogs and dogs,” and HB 2619 governing oil filter recycling. Both are a far cry from health care. In the Governor’s office, I provided technical assistance to communities in drafting state and federal grant applications and helped the internal grants team review grant applications for state funding.

WhydidyoudecidetocometotheTexasDentalAssociation?When former Governor Bush won the presidential election in 2000, he offered staff an opportunity to go with him to Washington, DC. However, I did not see myself living in D.C. and decided to stay in Austin.

Whatisyourfavoritethingaboutthejob?By far, the most satisfying part of my job is when I am able to answer members questions and give them the resources necessary to meet all of the legislative and regulatory requirements to practice dentistry in Texas. No matter the environment in which a member practices, TDA member dentists know that they can always contact me or anyone in the legislative affairs department for practice assistance. Additionally, I enjoy being part of the TDA’s legislative team that works tirelessly to stay on top of key issues affecting dentistry at both the state and federal levels.

Whatisonethingaboutyouthatmightsurprisepeople?I know the NATO phonetic alphabet by heart. Don’t ask.

JANUARY 2014 VOLUME 15, ISSUE 1 AVAILABLE ON TDA.ORG

512-270-6999 Support: M-F, 8 AM to 7 PM

TDAPerksSupplies.com leverages the group buying power of more than 7,400 TDA members.

DENTAL SUPPLIES

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT TDA PERKS SUPPLIES TDA Perks received some questions about TDA Perks Supplies, and asked the company to respond. The following is TDA Perks Supplies’ response:

Get a price estimate by sending a list of items using SKU or distributor item numbers via email, phone or fax. Your ADA number is required to access TDAPerksSupplies.com or customer sevice.

• TDA Perks Supplies vendors must sell products pursuant to manufacturer guidelines.

• All of TDA Perks Supplies vendors offer free ground shipping on any order—regardless of sIze.

• TDA Perks Supplies only offers products from direct manufactur-ers or authorized distributors. No gray market, expired, or counterfeit items are supplied.

• Vendors ship exactly what a den-tist orders—no alternative brands.

Support@TDAPerksSupplies.com | F: 888-740-4154

TSBDERuleUpdateThis recurring section is designed to help TDA members keep up with important Texas State Board of Dental Examiners (TSBDE) rules, other regulations, and state law affecting their practices.

EDITORIALSTAFFStephen R. Matteson, DDS, Editor

Nicole Scott, Managing EditorLauren Oakley, Publications Coordinator

Paul H. Schlesinger, Consultant

BoardofDirectorsDavid A. Duncan, DDS, DDS, President

David H. McCarley, DDS , President-electMichael L. Stuart, DDS, Immediate Past President

VicePresidentsJean E. Bainbridge, DDS, NortheastGregory K. Oelfke, DDS, Southeast

Yvonne E. Maldonado, DDS, SouthwestDavid C. Woodburn, DDS, Northwest

SeniorDirectorsJerry J. Hopson, DDS, Northeast

William S. Nantz , DDS, SoutheastJoshua A. Austin, DDS, Southwest

Steven J. Hill, DDS, NorthwestDirectors

William H. Gerlach, DDS, NortheastKaren A. Walters , DDS, SoutheastJohn B. Mason, DDS, Southwest

Charles W. Miller, DDS, Northwest

Ron Collins, DDS, Secretary-TreasurerJohn W. Baucum III DDS, Speaker of the House

Michael D. Vaclav, DDS, ParliamentarianStephen R. Matteson, DDS, Editor

Michael L. Stuart, DDS, Interim Executive DirectorWilliam H. Bingham, Legal Counsel

TDA Today (USPS 022-007) is published monthly except for December by the Texas Dental Association, 1946 S IH-35 Ste 400, Austin, Texas 78704-3698, 512-443-3675. Periodicals Postage Paid at Austin, Texas and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to TDA TODAY, 1946 S IH-35 Ste 400, Austin, TX 78704-3698. Copyright 2014 Texas Dental Journal. All rights reserved.Annual subscriptions: Texas Dental Association (TDA) members, $5. In-state American Dental Associa-tion (ADA) affiliated, $15 + tax. Out-of-state ADA affiliated, $15. In-state non-ADA affiliated, $30 + tax. Out-of-state non-ADA affiliated, $30.Single issue price: TDA members $1. In-state ADA affiliated, $3 + tax. Out-of-state ADA affiliated, $3. In-state non-ADA affiliated, $6 + tax. Out-of-state non-ADA affiliated, $6.Contributions: Manuscripts and news items of interest to the membership of the Association are so-licited. Manuscripts should be typewritten, double spaced, and the original copy should be submitted. Please refer to Instructions for Contributors in the annual September Directory of the Texas Dental Jour-nal for more information. The Information for Contributors is available at tda.org. All statements of opinion and of supposed facts are published on authority of the writer under whose name they appear and are not to be regarded as the views of the Texas Dental Association, unless such statements have been adopted by the Association. Articles are accepted with the understanding that they have not been published previously. Authors must disclose any financial or other interests they may have in products or services described in their articles. Advertisements: Publication of advertisements in this publication does not constitute a guarantee or endorsement by the Association of the quality of value of such product or of the claims made of it by its manufacturer.

Continued from page 2

The questionnaire must be completed in one sitting, a “save” function is not available. If a dentist needs to change an answer after the questionnaire is completed, email the TSBDE at information@tsbde.texas.gov . The dentist must include in the email their full name, license number, the question asked and the new answer.

The questionnaire may be accessed at tsbde.state.tx.us and may be completed in writing or online.

Information needed to complete the questionnaire includes:• Texas dental license number and specialty certification(s);• Number of dental practices owned, practice name(s), locations, and services provided;• Dentists employed: Name(s), Texas license number(s) and specialty certification(s);• Dental service organization information and dental service agreement information; and• Participation in Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).

For purposes of completing the questionnaire, the TSBDE states that a Dental Service Organization is an individual or business that enters into an agreement with a dentist to:

• Provide business services including: 1. Arranging or providing financing; 2. Billing or payroll tasks; 3. Processing patient insurance claims; 4. Scheduling or otherwise interacting with patients; and 5. Other administrative tasks;• Supervise or manages employees; or• Employ or contract with another dentist to work as a dentist.

*Note: The dentist completing the questionnaire is only required to report services rendered to another dentist, not services completed with the dentist’s own practice.

Furthermore, the TSBDE states that a Dental Service Agreement is an agreement between a Dental Service Organization and an individual or business where the Dental Service Organization agrees to:

• Provide business services including: 1. Arranging or providing financing; 2. Billing or payroll tasks; 3. Processing patient insurance claims; 4. Scheduling or otherwise interacting with patients; and• Supervise or manage employees; or• Employ or contract with another dentist to work as a dentist.• Or, where the dentist agrees to work directly for a Dental Service Organization as a dentist.

For more information, please contact TDA Policy Manager Diane Rhodes at 512-443-3675, diane@tda.org.

TDAT JAN 2014.indd 4 1/12/14 11:03 PM