Author: Amy Szmania

Ohio's Interim Director of Public Health Lance Himes recently signed an order that requires people to wear a mask in counties designated as a Level 3 or 4 public health emergency. This requirement applies to any indoor location that is not a residence. There are some exceptions, including when an individual is alone in an enclosed ... [continue reading]

During this difficult time of the COVID-19 pandemic, we're working with our endorsed partners and vendors to help all of our members in any way we can. We know that many offices may be facing financial hardships right now, so we’ve worked to secure additional savings and resources for you. Discounts and resources from our endorsed partners ... [continue reading]

Over the last several months, the ODA has rolled out some exciting new programs – all of which are providing ODA members with significant benefits for their practices. Members are saving money through our group purchasing organization The Ohio Dental Association Services Corporation (ODASC) created Ohio Discount Dental Supplies (OhioDDS), ... [continue reading]

The COVID-19 pandemic has shaken the world. It has directly or indirectly affected all mankind (womankind too). We have a responsibility; we can and will do whatever is necessary, and as effective as practical, to provide for our patients, staff, and our families while keeping in mind, and in practice, the latest information we have on the ... [continue reading]

Representative Bill Roemer (R-Richfield) recently introduced legislation that would require dental insurers to pay for a portion of expenses related to dentists' additional PPE costs in light of the current COVID-19 pandemic. House Bill 681 requires that health benefit plans that provide coverage for dental care services “shall provide a ... [continue reading]

Representative Jon Cross (R-Kenton) recently introduced House Bill 623, which would permit Ohioans to take a temporary state income tax deduction for out-of-pocket dental expenses. ODA president Dr. Sharon Parsons expressed appreciation for Representative Cross’ willingness to introduce the tax deduction bill. She pointed out that “while ... [continue reading]

The Ohio Dental Association recently launched a radio and digital advertising campaign about seeing a dentist in our post-COVID world. The radio ad explains how regular dental care ensures that we have good oral health and good overall health. It also discusses some of the new safety measures that may be in place at dental offices in Ohio. The ad ... [continue reading]

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused many dentists to reassess what levels of personal protective equipment (PPE) are appropriate for different procedures. As a result of this reassessment, some dentists have decided to require the use of respirators by certain dental team members while others have opted to simply make respirators available for staff ... [continue reading]

Ohio Dental Association Executive Director David J. Owsiany recently provided testimony to the Ohio House Civil Justice Committee in favor of legislation providing certain professionals and businesses qualified immunity from civil liability and other professional discipline for actions taken related to the current coronavirus pandemic. Owsiany ... [continue reading]

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recently provided updated interim infection prevention and control guidance for dental settings during the COVID-19 response. The CDC provided the following summary of recent changes: Recommendations are provided for resuming non-emergency dental care during the COVID-19 pandemic. New information is ... [continue reading]