You need a PPO strategy

How strategic is your PPO participation? We’ve got insights to help you strengthen contracts, plus a look at the healthcare debate driving the government shutdown—and breakthrough research in regenerative dentistry.

But first, another fake dental practice makes headlines. A sibling duo allegedly ran an unlicensed operation in Orlando, drilling veneers into one patient's gums. 

Legal battle update. Henry Schein One and Vyne Dental are locked in a high-profile legal battle. Henry Schein One released a statement promising to "defend our customers, their data and the security and integrity of the Dentrix platform."

An unusual patient. Dentist Rachael Gilardetti, DDS, recently performed a procedure on a peregrine falcon with a broken beak.  

Recognizing GERD in dental patients. An episode of "Medical History Mysteries" dives into the connection between GERD and coughing and how dental professionals can spot the condition. 

No class action against Delta Dental. The American Dental Association (ADA) filed a class action lawsuit against Delta Dental, alleging violations of antitrust laws. A federal district court recently ruled against the motion to certify the case as a class action, according to the ADA.  

Strength in numbers? Dentists can hold individual malpractice insurance, but a group policy could have some benefits to consider.

Building a PPO participation strategy

PPO participation is no longer a guarantee of a competitive advantage, according to a new article from Dental Economics. PPO plans are widely accepted in the dental space. Practices need a strategy to help them determine which plans to join, manage contracts and continually review network participation to prevent revenue loss. 

Why it matters: Taking a strategic approach to PPO participation helps practices stay on top of contracts and boost their profitability. (Dental Economics) 

Healthcare and the government shutdown

Healthcare remains the sticking point as the government shutdown continues. The Affordable Care Act tax credits are set to expire in December, and open enrollment begins on Nov. 1. If the credits are not extended, insurance premiums could double for many people. 

Why it matters: Skyrocketing healthcare costs could stop many people from seeking the care that they need, including dental care. (NPR)

Stem cells show promise in tooth regeneration 

Growing new teeth is the holy grail of regenerative dental medicine, and new research is helping scientists on their journey. Science Tokyo researchers have discovered two stem cell lineages, one responsible for the development of tooth roots and the other responsible for alveolar bone formation. 

Why it matters: Research like this could eventually translate from the lab to regenerative dental therapies for patients in the clinical setting.  (SciTechDaily)

• TSA reminds travelers how to pack electric toothbrushes
• Surgeons use patient's leg to rebuild tongue
• Podcast: Exploring digital dentistry innovations
• New aligner device for sleep apnea, snoring management

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Dental Bite is curated and written by Carrie Pallardy and edited by Lesley McKenzie.