I hope this past year has been a good one for you professionally and personally. So often, we focus so much on the clinical and business aspects of the dental practice that we tend to forget about family and friends. This is certainly the season to remember those who are very special to us by giving them the most precious gift of all - our love.
As the new year approaches, I like to sit down with my wife and talk about our plans for the coming year. Are there any special things that she would like to do with our family? Are there any special places or people she would like to visit (not connected with a dental meeting). We try to plan these things so that I have the time set aside because, too often, my schedule becomes so booked it is difficult to find the time. I would encourage you to do the same with that special person who is number one in your life.
I just returned from a one-week vacation to Orlando. A dentist friend in Baltimore called a couple of months ago and wondered if I could find a week to get together somewhere. He and his wife were dealing with a number of practice and family issues, and just needed some time to get away. Sue and I were feeling the same way. We found time to just get together and enjoy each other’s company. No schedule, no pressure, no timetable - it was a great time. We came home with our batteries recharged and ready to face the realities of life with a better perspective.
I still believe that this is a great time to be a dentist and that it will get even better. However, what good is all this money that we accumulate if we can’t find the time to have some fun? This year, resolve to get the fun back in your life!
While you work on planning for the next year, I would like to point out a few meetings that you should consider attending. There is so much continuing education available today that we really need to carefully consider the source and the sponsoring organization. Dentists should consider attending the annual meeting of the American Academy of Dental Practice Administration in Scottsdale, Ariz., the first week in March 2007. Go to www.aadpa.com for information about the program.
Consider sending your staff to the Professional Dental Assisting Conference (PDA) May 10-12 in Indianapolis. This is a one-of-a-kind event for dental assistants, sponsored by Dental Office magazine in alliance with the American Dental Assistants Association (ADAA) and the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB). The event is produced by PennWell, DE®’s parent company. Don’t miss the opportunity for your staff to attend hands-on workshops, presented by nationally known educators, as well as participate in seminars conducted by some of the nation’s most widely recognized speakers. Visit us online at www.professionaldentalassisting.com for more information on PDA 2007.
The inaugural Dental Assisting Award of Excellence is being brought to you by DUX Dental in association with PennWell Corporation. This award will be presented at the PDA and will recognize several dental assistants who have:
- proven to be an asset to the dental team
- displayed superb chairside skills
- shown exceptional patient-communication skills
For more information, go to www.dentaleconomics.com. and click on the Dux Dental Assisting Award of Excellence logo (see above).
Consider sending your dental hygienists to RDH Under One Roof. This annual meeting has grown to become the largest meeting for dental hygienists in the world. Next year’s meeting will be held Aug. 2-4 in Washington, D.C. Go to www.rdhunderoneroof.com for all the information you will need on this great meeting!
May the blessing of this holy season be with you and yours!
