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Martin's April Update
A SPEAR FIRST: FACIALLY GENERATED TREATMENT PLANNING SEMINAR FOR HYGIENISTS FOR FACULTY CLUB REFERRALS
As we near capacity with Faculty Club membership, we encourage you to welcome colleagues you know and trust into our community.
Now when you refer a friend to Spear Faculty Club by June 15, 2013 and your referral joins the club, your hygienist will receive a complimentary seat in our exclusive seminar at the Spear Campus in Scottsdale on Jan. 18-19.*
Presented by Drs. Steve Ratcliff, Gary DeWood, Martin Mendelson and Jodi Deming, R.D.H., Facially Generated Treatment Planning From the Hygiene Room will focus the hygienist’s role in educating and motivating patients for greater case acceptance.
This seminar is happening only once and is not available to any other audience, and is a great way to empower your hygienist in a way that will impact your practice and the care that you provide.
*NOTE: Free seminar does not include airfare or hotel accommodations.
Find more information here.
2013 SUMMIT ANNOUNCEMENTS!
More than 200 of you have already registered for the Summit! We are so excited you’re coming, but you must still register online for the break-out sessions you would like to attend.
Break-Out Sessions
Ninety-minute break-out sessions will feature a rich menu of timely topics you can definitely use – and you won't find these presentations anywhere else! Keep in mind that seating space is limited and you must pre-register online for the sessions you wish to attend. Online registration is now available. (Registering online confirms that you will be attending the Summit.) There will be no onsite registration.
All sessions will be recorded, so if you miss one, don't worry. You'll be able to catch it later.
Hybrids, Bars and Overdentures
Presented by Steve Ratcliff, D.D.S., M.S.
According to numbers extrapolated from CDC statistics, there are approximately 680,000 new edentulous patients every year and approximately 30 million existing edentulous patients currently in the United States – or approximately 222 edentulous persons per general dentist. Many of these patients will be very happy with conventional dentures, yet we can create substantively better restorations with the help of implants. This session will provide an overview of options for restoring the edentulous arch, from the simple to more complex.
Implant Prosthetic Considerations
Presented by Greggory A. Kinzer, D.D.S., M.S.D.
Whether it’s a single tooth implant or a full implant supported reconstruction, many restorative factors need to be taken into consideration. How is the abutment and restoration best designed? What materials are used? Should it be screw-retained or cemented? The presentation will discuss the treatment protocol and sequence needed in restoring implants from the provisional phase through to the final prosthesis in both simple and complex implant restorations.
Templates and Image Management
Presented by Gary DeWood, D.D.S., M.S.
Using templates to plan and present a case is one of the hallmarks of Spear's system. Bring your laptop – we'll provide a new MASTER file of templates and a full set of patient images, and then we'll go step-by-step through the process together. Required materials – fully charged laptop computer with Keynote (for Mac) or PowerPoint (for PC). Power will NOT be available.
Creating Mock-ups With CAD/CAM Technology
Presented by Sameer Puri, D.D.S.
CAD/CAM technology has moved from a simple inlay/onlay machine to a more robust technology that allows clinicians to work on so much more while taking care of patients' restorative needs. In this workshop, we will discuss the current indications of CAD/CAM and walk through a process of creating mock-ups with CAD/CAM and milling out the mock-ups using chairside milling technology.
Laboratory Communication: The Fundamentals of Predictability
Presented by Martin Mendelson, D.D.S.
Despite the options and complexity of today's material choices for laboratory-fabricated restorations, there remains certain basics for effective communication with your technician. What are those basics, and how should they be employed?
Implant vs. Endo? “How Do I Choose?”
Presented by John West, D.D.S., M.S.D.
Almost daily, dentists are faced with decisions about the management of endodontically diseased teeth in the esthetic zone. What are the biologic, structural, and esthetic considerations of “to save or not to save”? How do new implant and endodontic technologies change the treatment-planning protocol and sequence? What is the thought process and blueprint that leads to the most predictable result? This break-out presentation will teach the guidelines needed to arrive at the right “restore or replace” decision for your patients with endodontic disease.
2013 SUMMIT GUEST SPEAKERS
In addition to presentations by Frank Spear and the Spear faculty, we are thrilled to welcome some very big names to the Summit speaker lineup, including incoming ITI President, David L. Cochran, D.D.S., M.S., Ph.D., M.M.Sci., internationally recognized endodontist and educator John West, D.D.S., M.S.D. and keynote speaker, Mike Abrashoff, bestselling author of It's Your Ship.
REMEMBER! Book your accommodations at the Scottsdale Fairmont Princess Resort by May 17 for the preferred rate. Our room block WILL sell out and availability is on a first-come, first-served basis.
Contact John Kennett at 480.585.2788
ARE YOU A FACULTY CLUB MEMBER AND A STUDY CLUB LEADER?
If so, keep in mind that the 2013 Annual Study Club Leader Symposium begins at 1:00 p.m. on Sept. 20 – concurrent with the conclusion of the Faculty Club Summit.
Learn more about Spear Study Clubs. If you are ready to get started or have additional questions, contact Martin at mmendelson@speareducation.com.
SPEAR TALK AND EASIER LOG-IN!
Spear TALK is here! We've merged the Faculty Club, Study Club and Digital Campus discussion boards for a more powerful online community. Spear TALK is your go-to resource for both the clinical and the practical aspects of dentistry. You now have access to literally thousands of dentists from all over the world – and you'll see at a glance who is a Faculty Club and/or Study Club member. Be part of a supportive community of specialists and GPs who spend every day in your shoes. Join the conversation!
Enhanced Dashboard — Now everything new from the Spear Community is in one convenient place. Gone are the days of separate log-ins for each Spear platform. Log in once and easily toggle between Faculty Club, Digital Campus and Study Club sites, plus instantly access the latest content from The Spear Review, and the hot discussion topics on Spear TALK.
Intuitive Search Function — Our intuitive new Search field makes it easier to find what you're looking for.
Member Directory — Check out our new Google member map – wherever you are or wherever you're looking, simply point your curser to an area of the map and instantly see who's there.
Even more improvements will be coming in the months to come!
2013 Faculty Club Member Recognition Gift
Members renewing in the 2013 calendar year will receive a beautiful personalized member recognition gift. (Members who renewed or joined during 2012 received The Essential Frank Spear Seminar Series DVD box set.)
April Member of the Month
J.B. White, D.D.S.
Member since 2010
Originally from Saint Joseph, Mo, and the son of a dentist, Dr. White received his D.D.S. from the University of Missouri – Kansas City. Upon graduating, he was the recipient of the American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry Award. He is a sustaining member in the AACD, completed a 10-month implant maxicourse at Loma Linda University in 2009 and is pursuing his associate fellowship in the American Academy of Implant Dentistry. He is an officer of the Southern Nevada Dental Society and is a Spear Study Club co-leader. He began taking courses at Spear in 2007.
How has being involved in Faculty Club affected you professionally?
I joined Faculty Club because I wanted to be more engaged with Spear, to come down to the Center more often, to have access to the online library. I wanted to really be involved with the community and the Spear culture. I live by it.
To me, Faculty Club is about living the Spear culture of excellence, integrity and hard work. It’s dealing with the emotional side of dentistry, the psychology of practice. It’s also about running an office – the business side of dentistry and dealing with the emotional aspects of being a dentist.
And how has your involvement impacted you personally?
When your practice is better, your entire life is better. It’s made my office environment and my professional life so much better that I have more free time for the things I enjoy. That’s one way. It’s affected my personal relationships with my girlfriend and my staff. It’s given me more freedom, made me financially more independent. All of those things in my personal life have gotten better because of my professional life.
What is the best piece of advice you ever received as a dentist?
Never be afraid to tell a patient exactly what they need.
What is the most valuable lesson you have learned from a patient?
Never assume what treatment a patient will accept based on your first impression of them. I’ve had patients who come in who have abused their teeth their entire lives. I’ll come up with a $60,000 treatment plan thinking they’ll never go for it, and they say okay.
Meet the Staff: Jacque Collins
JACQUE COLLINS
Study Club Advisor
What led you to your current position?
Being able to build relationships has always been a strong area for me. My career path has been all over the map: it started in sports, and I’ve worked in fitness, ministry, working with inner-city youth, law enforcement and working for University of Phoenix. In every place of employment I have always been blessed with the opportunity to build relationships with great people. In many cases, helping people define their career goals, determining a process for reaching them, and now continuing education. So, I still feel like I am helping people better themselves while working here at Spear.
Describe your current position.
Currently I assist in helping doctors understand the benefits of what we offer here at Spear. The study club experience is a great opportunity for doctors to continue their education, network, build their practice and be surrounded with doctors who share the same passion.
What is your favorite part of what you do?
Building relationships with the doctors.
What do you do in your spare time?
I enjoy playing sports, reading and spending time with my family.
Anything else you’d like to share?
I always try to see the glass as half-full. My experiences in life have taught me that things can always be worse. Be sure to make the most of every day and run from negativity!
Favorite quote: “If you don't like something, change it. If you can't change it, change your attitude.”
– Maya Angelou
THE BIG EVENT: 2013 STUDY CLUB LEADERS SYMPOSIUM, SEPT. 20-22
The 2013 Study Club Leaders Symposium promises to be one of the most beneficial meetings you’ll attend this year.
For two powerful days you will be immersed in content that will positively impact your practice. Stimulating, enlightening, empowering and fun, join us for:
- Drs. Frank Spear, Gregg Kinzer, Dave Mathews and the esteemed Spear faculty
- Keynote Speaker Mike Abrashoff, bestselling author of It’s Your Ship
- Break-out sessions by specialty
- Expert treatment planning of real cases submitted by you
- Social events, great food and live entertainment
- And MUCH more!
Guests are welcome to attend lunches and evening social events for an additional fee, space permitting.
Slated for Sept. 20-22 at the Scottsdale Fairmont Princess Resort, the Symposium begins Friday at 1:00 p.m., concurrent with the conclusion of the Faculty Club Summit, and concludes Sunday at noon.
This event is an amenity of Study Club leadership. Simply R.S.V.P. to your Study Club Advisor at 855.773.2772 or studyclub@speareducation.com.
We urge you to book your accommodations soon, as our room block at the Scottsdale Fairmont will fill quickly. To get the preferred Spear rate, contact John Kennett at 480.585.2788 or john.kennett@fairmont.com.
Martin's March Update
2013 SUMMIT ANNOUNCEMENTS!
This year's Summit will be big. REAL big. Frank Spear and the Spear Faculty invite you to Clinical Realities in 2013 and Beyond: From Vision to Execution. Plan on being at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess Resort Sept. 18-20 for the biggest event of the year.
NEW THIS YEAR! Break-Out Sessions
Ninety-minute break-out sessions will feature a rich menu of timely topics you can definitely use – and you won't find these presentations anywhere else! Keep in mind that seating space is limited and you must pre-register online for the sessions you wish to attend. Online registration will be available in early April. (Registering online confirms that you will be attending the Summit.) There will be no onsite registration.
All sessions will be recorded, so if you miss one, don't worry. You'll be able to catch it later.
Hybrids, Bars and Overdentures
Presented by Steve Ratcliff, D.D.S., M.S.
According to numbers extrapolated from CDC statistics, there are approximately 680,000 new edentulous patients every year and approximately 30 million existing edentulous patients currently in the United States – or approximately 222 edentulous persons per general dentist. Many of these patients will be very happy with conventional dentures, yet we can create substantively better restorations with the help of implants. This session will provide an overview of options for restoring the edentulous arch, from the simple to more complex.
Implant Prosthetic Considerations
Presented by Greggory A. Kinzer, D.D.S., M.S.D.
Whether it’s a single tooth implant or a full implant supported reconstruction, many restorative factors need to be taken into consideration. How is the abutment and restoration best designed? What materials are used? Should it be screw-retained or cemented? The presentation will discuss the treatment protocol and sequence needed in restoring implants from the provisional phase through to the final prosthesis in both simple and complex implant restorations.
Templates and Image Management
Presented by Gary DeWood, D.D.S., M.S.
Using templates to plan and present a case is one of the hallmarks of Spear's system. Bring your laptop – we'll provide a new MASTER file of templates and a full set of patient images, and then we'll go step-by-step through the process together. Required materials – fully charged laptop computer with Keynote (for Mac) or PowerPoint (for PC). Power will NOT be available.
Creating Mock-ups With CAD/CAM Technology
Presented by Sameer Puri, D.D.S.
CAD/CAM technology has moved from a simple inlay/onlay machine to a more robust technology that allows clinicians to work on so much more while taking care of patients' restorative needs. In this workshop, we will discuss the current indications of CAD/CAM and walk through a process of creating mock-ups with CAD/CAM and milling out the mock-ups using chairside milling technology.
Laboratory Communication: The Fundamentals of Predictability
Presented by Martin Mendelson, D.D.S.
Despite the options and complexity of today's material choices for laboratory-fabricated restorations, there remains certain basics for effective communication with your technician. What are those basics, and how should they be employed?
Implant vs. Endo? “How Do I Choose?”
Presented by John West, D.D.S., M.S.D.
Almost daily, dentists are faced with decisions about the management of endodontically diseased teeth in the esthetic zone. What are the biologic, structural, and esthetic considerations of “to save or not to save”? How do new implant and endodontic technologies change the treatment-planning protocol and sequence? What is the thought process and blueprint that leads to the most predictable result? This break-out presentation will teach the guidelines needed to arrive at the right “restore or replace” decision for your patients with endodontic disease.
2013 SUMMIT GUEST SPEAKERS
In addition to presentations by Frank Spear and the Spear faculty, we are thrilled to welcome some very big names to the Summit speaker lineup, including incoming ITI President, David L. Cochran, D.D.S., M.S., Ph.D., M.M.Sci., internationally recognized endodontist and educator John West, D.D.S., M.S.D. and keynote speaker, Mike Abrashoff, bestselling author of It's Your Ship.
ARE YOU A FACULTY CLUB MEMBER AND A STUDY CLUB LEADER?
If so, keep in mind that the 2013 Annual Study Club Leader Symposium begins at 1:00 p.m. on Sept. 20 – concurrent with the conclusion of the Faculty Club Summit.
100 FACULTY CLUB MEMBERS NOW LEAD STUDY CLUBS. ARE YOU ONE OF THEM?
If not, why not? Don’t worry that you may not have all the answers. Leading a Study Club is about facilitation. And Spear is with you every step of the way to make it easy AND rewarding. Learn all about it in our Quick Start Guide.
Did you know that as a Faculty Club member, if you start a Spear Study Club, you will be rebated your Faculty Club dues? Yes, you read that correctly!
Study Clubs are the logical next step in the progression of learning. You will help your fellow dentists learn and implement, develop better interdisciplinary relationships, and directly impact the quality of care the patients in your community receive.
Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity. Learn more about Spear Study Clubs. If you are ready to get started or have additional questions, contact Martin at mmendelson@speareducation.com.
SPEAR TALK AND EASIER LOG-IN!
Spear TALK is here! We've merged the Faculty Club, Study Club and Digital Campus discussion boards for a more powerful online community. Spear TALK is your go-to resource for both the clinical and the practical aspects of dentistry. You now have access to literally thousands of dentists from all over the world – and you'll see at a glance who is a Faculty Club and/or Study Club member. Be part of a supportive community of specialists and GPs who spend every day in your shoes. Join the conversation!
Enhanced Dashboard — Now everything new from the Spear Community is in one convenient place. Gone are the days of separate log-ins for each Spear platform. Log in once and easily toggle between Faculty Club, Digital Campus and Study Club sites, plus instantly access the latest content from The Spear Review, and the hot discussion topics on Spear TALK.
Intuitive Search Function — Our intuitive new Search field makes it easier to find what you're looking for.
Member Directory — Check out our new Google member map – wherever you are or wherever you're looking, simply point your curser to an area of the map and instantly see who's there.
Even more improvements will be coming in the months to come!
2013 Faculty Club Member Recognition Gift
Members renewing in the 2013 calendar year will receive a beautiful personalized member recognition gift. (Members who renewed or joined during 2012 received The Essential Frank Spear Seminar Series DVD box set.)
March Member of the Month
Bjorn Melander, D.D.S.
Member since 2012
Tell us a bit about yourself.
I am a proud Kansas State wildcat, graduating in 2004, followed by UMKC dental school in 2008. I worked in private practice for a year in Kansas City, where I was raised. Looking for a busier schedule, I moved to Phoenix in 2009 to work for a corporate practice. Joining Spear has helped me decide that I wanted to perform better dentistry than the corporate business model allows. I am now looking into starting my own office in the Scottsdale area.
You have been very engaged in the Spear curriculum, taking a lot of courses in a relatively short period of time. What was your motivation?
After taking my first course, Creating Esthetic Excellence, my eyes were opened to what a cosmetic dentist could accomplish. I had so many "a-ha" moments that I knew I wanted to continue to find out more. I just went all in because I liked the curriculum so much.
Do you think there are advantages to learning everything so quickly?
A lot of courses build on and are complementary to one another. My goal is to finish all of the seminars before I start my private practice. This way I will be able to incorporate a lot of what Spear has to offer from day one without gradually transitioning the way I practice.
How has what you have learned at Spear affected your career path?
Spear has definitely changed my career path! When I took my first course, I was invested in a corporate dental practice that encouraged its doctors to churn out a lot of work without much concern for quality of care. The company has helped me treat a population that was underserved, but I was getting burnt out doing so much work, and no one in the company valued quality of care except for my assistants! After one course at Spear, I knew I had to get out of my current situation and into a practice that valued good dental work as much as I did.
Are there advantages to living in Arizona, so close to the Spear campus?
Well, it's certainly nice to save the cost of a flight and a hotel. But it's also a great way to see friends from dental school that I haven't seen in person much since graduating. As I get the word out about Spear, any time an old classmate comes to take a course I have a chance to see them again. At the moment I'm offering free room and board for a two-night stay on my sofa.
How has being involved in Faculty Club affected you professionally and personally?
Having access to the Digital Campus online videos is a great resource, and I'm really looking forward to the Summit in September. Talking to other dentists that have started their own practices has been a great help also.
Meet the Staff: Lisa Pletts
Lisa Pletts
Study Club Advisor
What led you to your current position?
I was most recently working in financial services and enjoyed the aspect of helping others. My grandmother always wanted me to follow in my grandfather's footsteps and become a doctor. My dad always said I should be an AT&T operator as a teen because I talked so much ... I found the happy medium here at Spear. I'm such a people person that when I heard about the position it just seemed right. I could help others and do something in the dental field!
Describe your current position.
As a study club advisor, I get to help dentists with their education decisions, ultimately enhancing their practices and the evolution of patient relationships. My role is so unique and it varies from day to day. There is a great deal of strategy involved in making sure I get to know each of my clubs as well as possible to be able to recommend the most appropriate curriculum to help them achieve their goals.
What is your favorite part of what you do?
I don't think I have one favorite part – there are many. I love the energy of seminars and workshops on campus. I love meeting my club members and leaders in person, and I especially love seeing the “light bulb” moment some doctors experience when they are here for the first time and the puzzle pieces of their chosen curriculum begin to come together.
What do you do in your spare time?
I enjoy being active as much as possible. I try to hike when the weather permits, I love challenging myself with Pilates and most recently became obsessed with paddle boarding. It seems like I am always doing something, whether it be dinner with friends (I'm a bit of a foodie and love to cook, but also enjoy getting out and trying new restaurants), traveling and soaking in the sights or a new culture, photography and maybe a little retail therapy. Or when it comes to relaxing, I like to curl up with a good book or snuggle with my dogs and watch a movie.
Six New Study Club Learning Modules Now Available
Great news! Six new learning modules have been added to the Spear Study Club site. Presented by members of the esteemed Spear faculty, these modules feature entirely new content that will be a valuable addition to your club’s learning.
- Oscar (Oral Surgery) by Dr. Gregg Kinzer
- Implant Opportunities in the Hygiene Room by Dr. Frank Spear
- How to Achieve Predictable Case Outcomes by Improving Communication With Your Technician by Dr. Robert Winter
- Treatment Planning With Your Technician by Dr. Robert Winter
- Single Tooth Implant Digital by Dr. Steve Ratcliff
- Single Tooth Implant Analog by Dr. Steve Ratcliff
New Automated Sign-in Sheets for Your Meetings
We have automated the creation of the sign-in sheets for your individual meetings. As of today, the sign-in sheets will automatically populate with the module name, date of the meeting and the names of the club members.
The sign-in sheet from the Leader Resource page has been removed.
For the leader: Simply click on the date of your next meeting on your club site. Then, under the Attending section, click on the Sign-In Sheet to download and print. It is that easy! All of the information for the meeting and the names of your members will appear on the sign-in sheet.
Once your meeting has concluded, simply fax the sheet to Spear at 480.907.2908.
In the coming weeks we will be giving you access to PDFs of your future CE credits on your study club site dashboard. Once the PDF is ready for download you will receive an email notification that it is available. For your convenience, you can print the PDFs at any time.
More information on the CE automation will be available in the next few weeks.
Martin's February Update
JUST LAUNCHED — SPEAR TALK AND EASIER LOG-IN!
Spear TALK is here! We've merged the Faculty Club, Study Club and Digital Campus discussion boards for a more powerful online community. Spear TALK is your go-to for both the clinical and the practical aspects of dentistry. You now have access to literally thousands of dentists from all over the world – and you'll see at a glance who is a Faculty Club and/or Study Club member. Be part of a supportive community of specialists and GPs who spend every day in your shoes. Join the conversation!
Enhanced Dashboard — Now everything new from the Spear Community is in one convenient place. Gone are the days of separate log-ins for each Spear platform. Log in once and easily toggle between Faculty Club, Digital Campus and Study Club sites, plus instantly access the latest content from The Spear Review, and the hot discussion topics on Spear TALK.
Intuitive Search Function — Our intuitive new Search field makes it easier to find what you're looking for.
Member Directory — Check out our new Google member map – wherever you are or wherever you're looking, simply point your curser to an area of the map and instantly see who's there.
Even more improvements will be coming in the months to come!
2013 SUMMIT BREAKOUT SESSION ANNOUNCEMENT!
The 2013 Faculty Club Summit is happening Sept. 18-20 at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess Resort.
Dr. John West will bring endodontic content to our Summit for the first time!
Mike Abrashoff — Former Commander, U.S.S. Benfold, author of It’s Your Ship and founder of GLS Worldwide, a consulting firm which works with and supports leaders as they address leadership, talent and business challenges within their organizations.
An array of 90-minute breakout sessions on Thursday, Sept. 19 and Friday, Sept. 20 will feature the esteemed Spear Faculty and other dentistry leaders. Due to limited seating for the breakout sessions, pre-registration is required. Reserve your place by contacting Michelle Balady at 480.588.9096 or mbalady@speareducation.com.
See the daily agenda on FC Connect.
(Don't worry – all sessions will be taped, so if you miss one, you can catch it after the Summit.)
FOR FACULTY CLUB MEMBERS WHO ALSO LEAD STUDY CLUBS
PLAN AHEAD! The Faculty Club Summit comes to an end as the Leader Symposium begins. The Leader Symposium begins on Friday, Sept. 20 at 1:00 and will conclude Sunday, Sept. 22 at noon.
Leader Symposium
Friday, Sept. 20 – Sunday, Sept. 22
100 FACULTY CLUB MEMBERS NOW LEAD STUDY CLUBS. ARE YOU ONE OF THEM?
If not, why not? Don’t worry that you may not have all the answers. Leading a Study Club is about facilitation. And Spear is with you every step of the way to make it easy AND rewarding. Learn all about it in our Quick Start Guide.
Did you know that as a Faculty Club member, if you start a Spear Study Club, you will be rebated your Faculty Club dues? Yes, you read that correctly!
Study Clubs are the logical next step in the progression of learning. You will help your fellow dentists learn and implement, develop better interdisciplinary relationships, and directly impact the quality of care the patients in your community receive.
Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity. Learn more about Spear Study Clubs. If you are ready to get started or have additional questions, contact Martin at mmendelson@speareducation.com.
2013 Faculty Club Member Recognition Gift
Members renewing in the 2013 calendar year will receive a beautiful personalized member recognition gift. (Members who renewed or joined during 2012 received The Essential Frank Spear Seminar Series DVD box set.)
