Bergman gives 2013 dental grads sound advice

Stanley Bergman, chairman of the board and CEO of Henry Schein, recently delivered the commencement address at Stony Brook School of Dental Medicine.

Addressing the graduates of the 2013 class, Bergman discussed the changes in dentistry over the past three decades, noting that those changes will be eclipsed by the even more extraordinary changes that new graduates will see in dentistry during their practice careers. He stressed the importance of embracing new technology and constantly looking for new and improved solutions to provide comprehensive care to patients.

"Dentists today must not only see their patients in the chair, but look well beyond the dental chair to a much larger world of oral healthcare," Bergman told the graduates. "Orient your practice to your patient's total health. Be a leader in the larger healthcare team protecting the overall health of your patient and a strong advocate for the important role that dentistry plays in the continuum of care by collaborating with dental and medical colleagues."

Bergman also emphasized the need to adapt one's practice to changes in the patient population.

"Within the next three decades, those who trace their roots to the developing world will represent the majority of the United States population ... the minority will be the majority," he continued. "Respect cultural differences, make sure your staff reflects the faces of your patients, and align your community outreach to give back to growing patient population segments."

The graduating class included 36 members receiving their Doctor of Dental Surgery and 21 receiving postdoctoral certificates.