Week in Review: Meet the Cuspies semifinalists | Call for expanded Medicaid benefits | Debate to Better Dentistry

Dear DrBicuspid Member,

Earlier this year, you told us about the outstanding people, products, and events you wanted to see recognized in this year's Cuspies Awards. Now the results are in. Our top story of the week named the Cuspies 2023 semifinal candidates across 14 award categories. Once you read who's on the list, vote for the candidates you want to see make it to the finals.

SmileDirectClub hit with lawsuit

The attorney general of Washington, DC, filed a complaint against SmileDirectClub this week alleging that the company made injured and dissatisfied customers sign nondisclosure agreements (NDAs) to receive refunds for their clear aligners. The lawsuit also claims that the NDAs prohibit consumers from making negative comments about the company or its products and requires them to delete negative reviews, social media posts, or comments to avoid fines.

Calls to expand Medicaid dental benefits

Leaders and organizations in healthcare and dentistry, including the ADA and the American Dental Hygienists' Association are asking U.S. lawmakers to add extensive adult dental benefits to every state Medicaid program to improve oral health equity and access. About one-third of states currently do not provide dental care for adults beyond emergency procedures.

The call for Medicaid dental benefits comes on the heels of a select expansion of Medicare dental benefits set to go into effect in 2023 and new Delta Dental poll data showing that the majority of both Democrats and Republicans support Medicare and Medicaid dental coverage.

Introducing Debate to Better Dentistry

Medicaid and Medicare dental benefits are just one issue that have drawn a lot of attention -- and a lot of opinions. Our new series, Debate to Better Dentistry, which is hosted by Dr. Michael W. Davis, dives into the divisive issues in the hopes of finding common ground and sparking productive conversations.

The first edition is a can't-miss debate on a very hot topic in the profession: dental therapists. It also features two educational and professional leaders in the industry: Drs. Paul Casamassimo and Frank Catalanotto.

Anesthesia webinar on Tuesday

Last but not least, I want to make sure you know about a great webinar we have coming up next week all about how to avoid another "Wait, I still feel that!" anesthesia situation.

I'll be talking with two leading dental educators from the University of the Pacific about how to get your patient numb the first time. Plus, the experts will be live on the Zoom call to answer your questions. All you have to do is register and show up at 7 p.m. ET on Tuesday, December 13.

See you then!