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Two California counties have issued new flu and COVID-19 vaccination orders that include dental offices and will take effect Nov. 1. Counties may amend their orders at any time and other counties could issue new orders during flu season. 

Seeking specialized advice from risk management experts is essential for addressing the complexities of running a dental practice and managing employee dynamics. Collaboration with TDIC’s Advice Line analysts contributes to the long-term viability, success and prosperity of the dental practice.

Dentists and X-ray machine registrants must properly document occupational exposure to radiation and maintain those records in anticipation of periodic inspections. In California, dental offices are to be inspected every five years and may be scheduled for an on-site inspection. 

The CDC recommends that individuals receive their flu vaccination in September or October. Some cities and counties in California mandate that certain health care workers, including workers in dental offices, receive the flu vaccine. 
 

CDA Presents The Art and Science of Dentistry in San Jose September 7-9 will feature opportunities to learn from CDA’s experts and earn C.E. credit.

Obtaining proper, legal consent for nonverbal adults is of paramount importance in the dental practice. By becoming familiar with local laws, employing effective communication strategies, involving caregivers and advocate, and maintaining documentation, dentists can provide ethical care for a vulnerable population. 

Every quarter, CDA publishes a Practice Health Check focusing on a different topic related to the business side of dentistry. Patient financial management is the focus in the third quarter of 2023. CDA members are invited to take the Q3 Practice Health Check consisting of just three questions.

The recording of conversations between dentists and patients can pose significant risks to dental professionals, including potential HIPAA violations, loss of control over the use of the recording and legal issues related to consent. Dentists should take steps to protect patient privacy.

A new safety needle is on the market and is now the fifth safety needle, or safety sharp, available to California dentists. Dental practices that do not use safety sharps should evaluate the NopoGuard as part of the Cal/OSHA-required documentation.