{"id":21492,"date":"2025-05-01T15:40:42","date_gmt":"2025-05-01T19:40:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.michigandental.org\/?page_id=21492"},"modified":"2025-11-04T09:39:35","modified_gmt":"2025-11-04T14:39:35","slug":"journal-cover-story","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.michigandental.org\/mda-journal\/current-journal-issue\/journal-cover-story\/","title":{"rendered":"Journal Cover Story"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"wpb-content-wrapper\"><p>[vc_row full_width=&#8221;stretch_row&#8221; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1698696973333{margin-top: -40px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 20px !important;background-color: #009ba7 !important;}&#8221; el_class=&#8221;white-text&#8221;][vc_column][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h1>Journal Cover Story<\/h1>\n<p><nav  aria-label=\"breadcrumb\"><ol class=\"breadcrumb\" itemscope itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/BreadcrumbList\"><li class=\"breadcrumb-item active\" aria-current=\"page\" itemprop=\"itemListElement\" itemscope itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/ListItem\"><span itemprop=\"name\">Home<\/span><meta itemprop=\"position\" content=\"1\"><\/li><\/ol><\/nav>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row disable_element=&#8221;yes&#8221;][vc_column][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1758729450963{margin-bottom: 25px !important;}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h2>MDA Dental PAC:Why It\u2019s So Important to You<\/h2>\n<p>By James Mashni, DDS<br \/>\nChair, MDA Dental PAC<\/p>\n<p>As many of you are aware, the MDA has a political action committee \u2014 a PAC \u2014 called MDA Dental PAC. This PAC assists our association\u2019s lobbying efforts on state legislation. MDA Dental PAC is funded entirely by voluntary contributions from MDA member dentists like you, and I\u2019m happy to say that we have a solid history of participation and contribution to the PAC by our members \u2014 we hope that includes you.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1758730192215{margin-bottom: 15px !important;}&#8221;]Still, many people don\u2019t really understand what a PAC is or what it does. This article will go over the basics of what a PAC is and give you a better understanding of the very important role it plays in advocacy and in your everyday practice life.<\/p>\n<p>First \u2014 what is a PAC? A PAC is a group of like-minded persons who get together to support candidates. In our case, the like-minded individuals are dentists. Technically, we\u2019re one of those \u201cspecial interests\u201d that you always hear about. But being a special interest is not as bad a thing as the media and others frequently portray it to be!<\/p>\n<p>MDA Dental PAC was formed in 1968 and is funded entirely by member dentist donations. Donations to the PAC are voluntary and are made through the MDA\u2019s annual dues statement, as well as various fund raising activities (such as the Annual Session PAC competition), and online donations. On the dues statement, because donations are voluntary, it\u2019s important that members check the box that allows for the contribution to the PAC. Otherwise the contribution won\u2019t be made. It\u2019s also important to know that the vast majority of the money for the PAC comes through the annual dues statement. The current request on the dues statement for 2026 will be $65 for Dental PAC and $65 for ADPAC, the ADA\u2019s PAC. ADPAC focuses on federal, as opposed to state, legislation, and is also important, especially in these uncertain times.<\/p>\n<h4>Why a PAC?<\/h4>\n<p>The purpose of the PAC is to support political\/elected officials who are supportive of organized dentistry and our issues. Dollars received from members are pooled together to make a powerful impact. Acting as your broker, MDA staff studies races, looks at candidates\u2019 past voting records, and consults opinion polls. A wide variety of factors are considered when determining if a candidate is worthy of our financial support.<\/p>\n<p>Donations made to candidates are based solely on their positions on issues that are important to organized dentistry. The PAC does not consider issues such as abortion or gun rights, for example, and the PAC does not favor one particular political party.<\/p>\n<p>MDA Dental PAC is governed by a Board of Governors that is separate and independent from the MDA Board of Trustees. The PAC Board consists of 12 to 15 members appointed by the MDA Board of Trustees from a list provided by the MDA president. The chart on Page 40 shows the current makeup of the MDA Dental PAC Board of Governors, who are limited to three three-year terms. The PAC Board usually only meets once a year to set contribution guidelines, approve the Annual Session fundraiser, and take up other issues as needed.<\/p>\n<h4>How much the PAC gives<\/h4>\n<p>Giving guidelines for candidate contributions are set each year by the Board of Governors. For 2025:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The MDA advocacy staff is authorized to determine and distribute any donation of $500 or less.<\/li>\n<li>The MDA advocacy staff must get the authorization of the Dental PAC chair for any individual donation over $500.<\/li>\n<li>The MDA advocacy staff is authorized to make contributions of up to $20,000 for each majority caucus in the state Legislature, and up to $10,000 for each minority caucus in the state Legislature.<\/li>\n<li>MDA Dental PAC funds should be distributed as follows: Up to $60,000 to caucuses and up to $80,000 to individuals.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Factors that are considered when deciding to make contributions include voting records (do they support issues important to the MDA?); whether the candidate holds a leadership position; whether the candidate serves on a committee that deals with MDA issues; whether the person is accessible; and if a member dentist requests that a contribution be made.<\/p>\n<h4>Your donations at work<\/h4>\n<p>Here\u2019s a look at how your recent PAC contributions have worked to improve the practice environment for Michigan dentists. For example, thanks to your support, the MDA:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Passed legislation to give dentists the option of taking part in network leasing, ensuring that fee schedules stay the same when participating in network leasing.<\/li>\n<li>Passed legislation to expand kindergarten screening, ensuring every Michigan kindergartner receives an oral health screening.<\/li>\n<li>Succeeded in increasing Medicaid facility fees across the state to improve access to care for those most in need.<\/li>\n<li>Successfully prevented the passage of harmful legislation that would have increased the costs of dental malpractice insurance.<\/li>\n<li>Cultivated a number of effective coalitions to advocate for a stronger economic environment, supporting the growth and success of small businesses such as dentist offices across the state of Michigan.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4>PAC priorities are your priorities<\/h4>\n<p>As you can see, your contributions help support advocacy efforts to pass important public policy issues that impact every dentist in Michigan. These priorities are developed in conjunction with the MDA Committee on Government Affairs and the MDA lobbying staff, and are approved by the MDA Board of Trustees. The 2025 MDA advocacy priorities are shown on Pages 38-39. Take a look at them and you\u2019ll see why each and every one of these priorities is important to you as a practicing dentist.<\/p>\n<p>Note that MDA lobbying goes on all year, whether the Legislature is in session or not. MDA lobbying staff meet with legislators to explain issues of importance, attend fundraisers, and coordinate in-district activities, such as legislative breakfasts and luncheons, or even attendance at golf outings.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243;][vc_cta h2=&#8221;2025 Advocacy Priorities for the Michigan Dental Association&#8221; txt_align=&#8221;center&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\">DENTAL LOSS RATIO<\/h4>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">Dental loss ratio laws would require a dental benefits company to report the percentage of collected premiums that are spent on patient care. Typically, these laws establish a minimum loss ratio that a plan or company must meet to comply with the law. If a plan or company fails to meet the statutory loss ratio threshold, the law usually requires the company or plan to issue a refund of premiums to the plan purchaser to compensate for the shortcoming.<\/p>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\">ASSIGNMENT OF BENEFITS<\/h4>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">Assignment of benefits refers to the right of patients to assign their full dental insurance benefit to a dentist of their choosing, and the corresponding right of a dentist to accept or reject the patient\u2019s benefit. This enables patients to visit the dentist they wish to see, regardless of the dentist\u2019s participation status within an insurer\u2019s network. The MDA is well aware of the difficulties patients and dentists face in dealing with dental plans. By recognizing assignment of benefits in the law, Michigan would ensure that patients could always access the maximum benefit provided by their dental plan and see the dentist of their choosing, regardless of the dentist-insurer relationship. Nationally, more than 20 other states have assignment-of-benefits laws in place. The MDA has developed a legislative proposal to introduce such a law here in Michigan.<\/p>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\">VIRTUAL CREDIT CARD PAYMENTS (Senate Bill 105)<\/h4>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">Some dental plans reimburse dentists with pre-loaded virtual credit cards, rather than with a check or by electronic funds. This causes an administrative burden for offices because staff need to actively track all of the virtual credit cards\u2019 balances, expiration dates, and other information needed to access the funds. However, what\u2019s most frustrating for dentists is that they become personally responsible for the full credit card processing fees associated with using the card. In effect, the reimbursement paid by a dental plan, which likely does not come close to covering the dentist\u2019s full fee, is further reduced. The MDA supports insurers being required to provide at least one form of payment that provides the dentist with 100% of the payable amount for a claim, per the patient\u2019s plan, and does not require the dentist to incur a cost to access those funds.<\/p>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\">NON-COVERED SERVICES<\/h4>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">Many dental insurance companies have a practice where they set the fees on services that a plan does not cover. This is unfair to patients and dentists. The patients suffer because a dentist may choose not to offer that service because they lose too much money by providing it. The dentists suffer because if they do accept the non-covered service fee they lose money. Insurance companies should not be allowed to set fees on services they do not cover in a dental plan. The MDA continues to work on a solution to address this problem.<\/p>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\">DENTAL SPECIALTY ADVERTISING (House Bills 4593 and 4594)<\/h4>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">Prior to 2021, the only way dentists could advertise as a specialist in Michigan was if they were licensed in one of the specialties recognized by the state. In 2021, due to a lawsuit settlement, the advertising rule was changed so that non-recognized specialties could advertise free of any rules. The only dentists who have to follow advertising rules were those licensed in one of the recognized specialties. This makes no sense. The MDA is working with other interested parties to fix this problem.<\/p>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\">MEDICAID ANESTHESIA REIMBURSEMENT<\/h4>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">In 2023, the Michigan Legislature funded an increase to the Medicaid anesthesia reimbursement, which was significant for dentistry because lack of access to anesthesiologists poses a significant barrier for high-risk Medicaid patients\u2019 access to outpatient hospital settings. While the increase in 2023 was important, Michigan Medicaid\u2019s reimbursement is still less than 15% of the national average reimbursement for anesthesia services. The MDA continues to advocate for significantly increased funding to increase the Medicaid reimbursement to anesthesiologists and improve access to care for vulnerable and high-risk Medicaid populations.<\/p>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\">STUDENT DEBT CRISIS<\/h4>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">Dentists are graduating with staggering amounts of student debt, which impacts where they choose to practice, the patient populations they can treat, and the overall cost of dental care. Student debt relief will help curb rising health care costs and increase access to dental care.<\/p>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\">WORKFORCE SHORTAGE<\/h4>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">Many professions have experienced a workforce shortage and dentistry is no exception. Over the past several years, dental offices have experienced a dwindling supply of RDHs and RDAs, as well as office support staff. The MDA is working with the ADA, other state associations, and stakeholders in Michigan to identify solutions that will address the shortage now and provide a sustainable talent pipeline for the dental workforce.<\/p>\n<p>[\/vc_cta][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1758730227885{margin-bottom: 15px !important;}&#8221;]It\u2019s perhaps also worth mentioning that this year\u2019s state Legislature has been extraordinarily dysfunctional, failing to adopt a budget on time and not meeting all summer. With a Republican House and Democratic Senate, the Michigan Legislature this year could serve as a perfect definition of \u201cgridlock.\u201d But make no mistake, work continues behind the scenes, setting the stage for legislative activity in the future. Your support of MDA Dental PAC is part of that.<\/p>\n<h4>The engine behind MDA advocacy<\/h4>\n<p>To sum up, MDA Dental PAC provides much of the financial wherewithal that backs up MDA advocacy, providing funds for all-important candidate contributions. It\u2019s the \u201cengine\u201d that runs the MDA\u2019s advocacy machine. And without member contributions, the MDA would have a much-reduced profile in Lansing and would have far less of an impact on your behalf.<\/p>\n<p>This year, when your dues statement arrives, please contribute to the PAC by checking the box on your dues statement. With your help, the MDA PAC will be stronger, and the MDA will be stronger. Thank you for supporting MDA Dental PAC![\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1758742122341{margin-bottom: 25px !important;}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\">Here Are Your MDA Dental PAC Board of Governors<\/h3>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/5&#8243;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;24120&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1758730498291{margin-bottom: 25px !important;}&#8221;]Chair<br \/>\nDr. James Mashni<br \/>\nEast Lansing[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/5&#8243;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;24129&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1758730526946{margin-bottom: 25px !important;}&#8221;]Vice Chair<br \/>\nDr. Naila Farooq<br \/>\nCommerce Charter Twp.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/5&#8243;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;24116&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1758741149358{margin-bottom: 25px !important;}&#8221;]Treasurer<br \/>\nDr. Margaret Gingrich<br \/>\nBig Rapids[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/5&#8243;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;24127&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1758741209588{margin-bottom: 25px !important;}&#8221;]Dr. Michelle Dziurgot<br \/>\nWashington Twp.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/5&#8243;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;24126&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1758741247315{margin-bottom: 25px !important;}&#8221;]Dr. Saranna Berger<br \/>\nCanton[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/5&#8243;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;24122&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1758741275251{margin-bottom: 25px !important;}&#8221;]Dr. Riley Schaff<br \/>\nAnn Arbor[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/5&#8243;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;24124&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1758741303571{margin-bottom: 25px !important;}&#8221;]Dr. Hassan Yehia<br \/>\nRoyal Oak[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/5&#8243;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;24119&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1758741328109{margin-bottom: 25px !important;}&#8221;]Dr. Zelton Johnson<br \/>\nFlint[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/5&#8243;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;24117&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1758741354141{margin-bottom: 25px !important;}&#8221;]Dr. Steven Gray<br \/>\nAnn Arbor[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/5&#8243;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;24118&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1758741385702{margin-bottom: 25px !important;}&#8221;]Dr. Graham Greenland<br \/>\nGrand Rapids[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/5&#8243;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;24123&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1758741417733{margin-bottom: 25px !important;}&#8221;]Dr. Christopher Stilwill<br \/>\nTraverse City[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/5&#8243;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;24121&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1758741439838{margin-bottom: 25px !important;}&#8221;]Dr. Erick Rupprecht<br \/>\nGrand Rapids[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/5&#8243;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;24125&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1758741456910{margin-bottom: 25px !important;}&#8221;]Dr. Rabia Arif<br \/>\nAnn Arbor[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/5&#8243;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;24128&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1758741494412{margin-bottom: 25px !important;}&#8221;]Dr. Daniel Edwards<br \/>\nAnn Arbor[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/5&#8243;][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h3>FOCUS ON MEMBERSHIP<\/h3>\n<h2>These Dentists Have a Story to Tell; What\u2019s Yours?<\/h2>\n<p>Every dentist has his or her own story to tell when it comes to personal and practice success. Each is different, of course, but a recurring theme is how membership in the MDA, ADA, and their local society seems to help them succeed. They find that practice life is somehow better \u2014 more rewarding \u2014 with membership. Many will tell you that being a member makes them a more satisfied, more grounded professional.<\/p>\n<p>Having a gratifying professional life makes a big difference with the personal side of things as well. After all, in a profession like dentistry, sometimes there isn\u2019t much separation between professional life and personal life.<\/p>\n<p>With that in mind, in this issue we\u2019re presenting the stories of four MDA members who\u2019ve found that balance, that mixture of the personal and professional that makes things \u2014 if not always perfect \u2014 better. They\u2019ve discovered how membership gives them many advantages, including instant access to a network of colleagues, advice, and support that always has their back.<\/p>\n<p>Dentistry is hard. And so is life. But membership can help you mix work and life in a way that leaves room for joy.<\/p>\n<p>Isn\u2019t that what it\u2019s all about? Read their stories, and then ask yourself, how does my membership make my life better?[\/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1761679018809{margin-bottom: 15px !important;}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h3>Coming Home: How Dr. Eric Tye Built a Life and a Practice Rooted in Purpose<\/h3>\n<p>When Dr. Eric Tye imagined his future, he always pictured it close to home, surrounded by family, steeped in community, and grounded in purpose.<\/p>\n<p>That dream became reality when he returned to his hometown of Rochester Hills to take over the dental practice he once visited as a child. Today, he\u2019s not just practicing dentistry, he\u2019s preserving a legacy, investing in his community, and building a life where work and family thrive side by side.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cFor us, it was a no-brainer,\u201d said Dr. Tye. \u201cWe wanted our kids to grow up close to their grandparents, cousins, and the community that raised us. Coming home just felt right.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>But transitioning into practice ownership wasn\u2019t without its challenges. From securing financing to understanding insurance and valuations, Dr. Tye found himself navigating unfamiliar territory \u2014 territory that wasn\u2019t covered in dental school.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;24508&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1761677894738{margin-bottom: 15px !important;}&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<strong>Dr. Eric Tye and wife Melissa.<\/strong>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1761679611716{margin-bottom: 25px !important;}&#8221;]That\u2019s where the Michigan Dental Association made all the difference.<\/p>\n<p>Through MDA resources, consultations, and expert guidance, Dr. Tye got answers to the questions that kept him up at night, like how to value a practice, who to talk to for analysis, and what insurances were needed to protect his new venture.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cIf I didn\u2019t have the MDA, I honestly wouldn\u2019t have known where to start,\u201d he says. \u201cBut because I did, everything just clicked into place.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Later on, Dr. Tye gave back to the MDA, serving as chair of the MDA\u2019s membership committee. Maybe you recall seeing his photo in the MDA <em>Journal\u2019s<\/em> \u201cMDA At Your Service\u201d column a few years back.<br \/>\nWith the MDA\u2019s support behind him, Dr. Tye was able to focus on what matters most: caring for his patients, mentoring his team, and being fully present with his family.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI want to do right by my patients and my community,\u201d he said. \u201cBut I also want to be there for my wife and kids, to make memories, to build a beautiful life. That\u2019s what it\u2019s really all about.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>For Dr. Tye, dentistry isn\u2019t just a career. It\u2019s a way to live out his values. And thanks in large part to the support he found in the MDA, he\u2019s doing exactly that \u2014 one patient, one family moment, one hometown smile at a time.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_separator color=&#8221;turquoise&#8221; border_width=&#8221;2&#8243; el_width=&#8221;70&#8243; css=&#8221;&#8221;][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1761679072688{margin-bottom: 15px !important;}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h3>From Ice to Operatory: Dr. Melissa Keil Finds the Balance Between Passion and Purpose<\/h3>\n<p>Long before she wore scrubs and loupes, Dr. Melissa Keil, of Ann Arbor, was gliding across the ice \u2014 spinning, jumping, and performing with the grace of a seasoned figure skater.<\/p>\n<p>She began skating as soon as she could walk, competing by age 4, and coaching by age 14. What started as a childhood hobby became a lifelong passion. Surprisingly enough, it also became a foundation for her future in dentistry.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cFigure skating is a mix of precision and performance,\u201d says Dr. Keil. \u201cThere\u2019s artistry, yes, but there\u2019s also strategy, discipline, and goal-setting. Dentistry taps into that same balance.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Today, when she\u2019s not helping patients achieve better oral health, Dr. Keil is coaching skaters of all ages, helping them land jumps, chase goals, and discover their potential. The parallels between both worlds are clear: She\u2019s a guide, a motivator, and a trusted partner in growth.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;24510&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1761679507585{margin-bottom: 15px !important;}&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<strong>Dr. Melissa Keil enjoys mentoring young skaters.<\/strong>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1761679598384{margin-bottom: 25px !important;}&#8221;]But just like figure skating, dentistry can feel isolating. Many dentists practice alone or lead their own teams with little peer interaction. That\u2019s why Dr. Keil relies on her MDA membership to stay connected and supported.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cSkating can be lonely, and so can dentistry,\u201d she says. \u201cThat\u2019s why having a strong community behind you is so important. For me, that\u2019s the MDA.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>What sets the MDA apart, she says, is its commitment to the whole person, not just the professional. Whether it\u2019s advocacy at the legislative level, resources for private practice management, local meetings, or support for mental wellness, the MDA offers more than a membership. It offers a safety net.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThey don\u2019t just support you as a dentist,\u201d she says. \u201cThey support you as a human being.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>From ice rinks to operatories, Dr. Keil has built a life that honors her passions while serving others. Whether she\u2019s perfecting a skating routine or helping a patient find their smile, she brings the same energy, empathy, and drive.<\/p>\n<p>And with the MDA in her corner, she knows she\u2019s never skating alone.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_separator color=&#8221;turquoise&#8221; border_width=&#8221;2&#8243; el_width=&#8221;70&#8243; css=&#8221;&#8221;][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1761679187854{margin-bottom: 15px !important;}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h3>Wholehearted Dentistry: How Dr. Rachel Sinacola Stays Grounded in a Demanding Profession<\/h3>\n<p>Dr. Rachel Sinacola, of Grandville, wears a lot of hats: practice owner, provider, team leader, mother, wife. And like many dentists, she strives to give her best to everyone in her life \u2014 patients, staff, and family alike.<\/p>\n<p>But she\u2019s learned that in order to show up fully for others, she has to start by filling her own cup.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cFor me, that means playing piano, practicing yoga, and making time to reset,\u201d Dr. Sinacola says. \u201cThose things help me be the best version of myself, at work and at home.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>She first discovered the piano at age 3, drawn to it at a babysitter\u2019s house. Over the years, it became her emotional outlet as a way to unwind, refocus, and process stress through music. More recently, yoga has offered a similar source of restoration, both physically and mentally.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;24507&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1761678356417{margin-bottom: 15px !important;}&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<strong>Exercise helps Dr. Rachel Sinacola unwind.<\/strong>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1761679585864{margin-bottom: 25px !important;}&#8221;]\u201cIt started as a way to ease the physical strain of dentistry,\u201d she says, \u201cbut I quickly realized how much it helps me mentally. It\u2019s a space where I can breathe.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Dr. Sinacola took over her practice in 2021. It was a major milestone that brought excitement, uncertainty, and pressure. But through her MDA membership, she found the tools and reassurance she needed to lead with confidence.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThe MDA reminds me that I\u2019m not alone,\u201d she says. \u201cThey provide the resources and the community that help me keep growing.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cBeing a practice owner can make you question yourself,\u201d she continues. \u201cBut knowing there\u2019s an organization that believes in you and is ready to support you makes all the difference.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Whether it\u2019s business guidance, CE opportunities, or peer connection, the MDA plays a key role in her ability to thrive in a demanding profession. Organized dentistry has also helped her develop her leadership skills, serving as her local society editor, in other posts, and currently as chair of the MDA membership committee.<\/p>\n<p>For Dr. Sinacola, dentistry isn\u2019t just a job. It\u2019s a commitment to others. And that starts with a commitment to herself. By making time to fill her tank, she ensures that every patient, every teammate, and every family member gets the care and energy they deserve. Because in her eyes, wholehearted dentistry begins with a full heart, and a full cup.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_separator color=&#8221;turquoise&#8221; border_width=&#8221;2&#8243; el_width=&#8221;70&#8243; css=&#8221;&#8221;][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1761679315534{margin-bottom: 15px !important;}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h3>A Journey of Service: Dr. Lisenia Collazo on Access, Leadership, and Making a Difference<\/h3>\n<p>For Dr. Lisenia Colazzo, dentistry has always been about more than clinical care \u2014 it\u2019s about creating access, building trust, and serving communities that need it most.<\/p>\n<p>Born in Allentown, Pennsylvania, Dr. Colazzo\u2019s path to dentistry began when her grandfather retired and moved the family back to his hometown of Utuado, Puerto Rico. There, she witnessed firsthand the challenges her grandparents and neighbors faced in securing health care.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI became aware of the struggles that my grandparents and the people of Puerto Rico had to face when seeking health care,\u201d she recalls. \u201cAround high school was when I decided I wanted to pursue a career in health care because I wanted to help bridge that gap and increase access for people who need it most.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Years later, that same awareness carried with her when she moved to Michigan\u2019s Upper Peninsula. Much like her experience in Puerto Rico, the U.P. presented unique challenges in access to care.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;24509&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1761679273364{margin-bottom: 15px !important;}&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<strong>Dr. Collazo and friends enjoy life in the U.P.<\/strong>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1761679677728{margin-bottom: 15px !important;}&#8221;]\u201cIn a rural area, patients often have to travel one to two hours to see a specialist,\u201d Dr. Colazzo explains. \u201cEach time they\u2019re able to be seen by me or one of my colleagues, they always express their gratitude. That\u2019s what keeps me motivated.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Since joining the Michigan Dental Association in 2020, Dr. Colazzo has leaned on the organization to strengthen her career and impact. \u201cSomething I really enjoy about being in the MDA is that it allows me to have access to resources that help me be the best dentist I can be for my organization and my patients,\u201d she says.<\/p>\n<p>The MDA\u2019s LEAD (Leadership Exploration And Development) Program played a pivotal role in her professional journey, helping her build the confidence to step into leadership. That experience ultimately led her to serve as dental director within her organization.<\/p>\n<p>Looking back, Dr. Colazzo feels proud of the journey that led her here. \u201cIt makes me feel fulfilled because that\u2019s why I wanted to go into health care, specifically public health \u2014 to make a difference for those who need it the most.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>For Dr. Colazzo, dentistry is more than a profession \u2014 it\u2019s a calling to serve, and one she continues to answer with passion and purpose.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p>These are just four stories from MDA-member dentists. There are so many more. We hope that you\u2019ll see that MDA membership has been an important part of those stories. It\u2019s not about a laundry list of member benefits. Instead, it\u2019s the confidence that no matter what happens, the community of dentists that makes up the MDA always has your back.<\/p>\n<p>What\u2019s your story? The MDA would love to hear yours.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]<\/p>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[vc_row full_width=&#8221;stretch_row&#8221; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1698696973333{margin-top: -40px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 20px !important;background-color: #009ba7 !important;}&#8221; el_class=&#8221;white-text&#8221;][vc_column][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;] Journal Cover Story [\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row disable_element=&#8221;yes&#8221;][vc_column][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1758729450963{margin-bottom: 25px !important;}&#8221;] MDA Dental PAC:Why It\u2019s So Important to You By James Mashni, DDS Chair, MDA Dental PAC As many of you are aware, the MDA has a political action committee \u2014 a PAC \u2014 called [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":0,"parent":21409,"menu_order":11,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"page-template-full-width.php","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_seopress_robots_primary_cat":"","_seopress_titles_title":"","_seopress_titles_desc":"","_seopress_robots_index":"","protect_children":false,"footnotes":"","_links_to":"","_links_to_target":""},"class_list":["post-21492","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"publishpress_future_action":{"enabled":false,"date":"2025-11-17 13:40:38","action":"change-status","newStatus":"draft","terms":[],"taxonomy":"","extraData":[]},"publishpress_future_workflow_manual_trigger":{"enabledWorkflows":[]},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.michigandental.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/21492","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.michigandental.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.michigandental.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.michigandental.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/5"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.michigandental.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=21492"}],"version-history":[{"count":27,"href":"https:\/\/www.michigandental.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/21492\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":24622,"href":"https:\/\/www.michigandental.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/21492\/revisions\/24622"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.michigandental.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/21409"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.michigandental.org\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=21492"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}