Trident Endo’s annual Save-a-Smile event was hosted on April 27 from 8AM-2PM at RCT Endodontics Laurel Office. In addition to its distinction as the 6th annual event, this year also boasted the largest volunteer turnout to date with 51 volunteers helping to advance the Save-A-Smile mission. Created in recognition of the American Association of Endodontists’ Save-Your-Tooth month, Trident Endo has once again empowered its surrounding communities with exceptional endodontic care. 

Speaking of recognition, Drs. Adam Orgel and Badri Jureidini were awarded the Prestigious Volunteer for being part of this initiative since its inception. In addition, Dr. Ronald Taylor, Founder of Trident Endo and Dr. Lucciola Lambruschini, Director of Dental services at the Catholic Charities Center of Washington DC, were both awarded the Visionary Awards for making this annual cause a reality for the community.

Founded in 2018, Trident Save-a-Smile Foundation provides tooth-saving care to those with zero access. Our mission is to collaborate with other providers, non-profit clinics, and community centers to minimize the negative impacts of limited access to endodontic expertise.

During the event, our endodontists and dental teams treat primarily low-income and undocumented immigrant patients. Without this important event, these patients would have likely resorted to compromising “underground dentists” to relieve their tooth pain, or they could have lost their teeth by not treating them at all. 

Having damaged or missing teeth compromises self-esteem and self-confidence. Trident Endo’s Save-A-Smile patients reap the benefits of their root canal treatments by re-entering the workforce with a beaming smile.

Transforming Lives: In 2024, our donated endodontic services amounted to $28,198, covering 15 root canals for 14 patients.

Cumulatively, our remarkable volunteers have treated 125 patients, delivering over $225,000 worth of root canal treatments! 🦷💙

Our efforts are facilitated by the generosity of donors like the MSDA Foundation, Foundation for Endodontics, Support DDS, and Brasseler USA Dental Instruments. We thank you for continuing to support our mission by ensuring we have the resources required to make endodontic care accessible to everyone. 

The Trident Endo team also extends our sincere gratitude to the employees, sponsors, and practices who participated in this year’s Save-a-Smile event, including Dr. Angela Noguera of DC Endodontic Center, Dr. Alexis Herring of Bay Endodontics, and Drs. Ronald Taylor, Adam Orgel, Badri Jureidini, Eunice Kim from RCT Endodontics. We invite you to visit Trident Endo’s Save-a-Smile Foundation page to meet all of our enthusiastic volunteers, without whom this event wouldn’t be possible.  

Consider becoming a corporate sponsor of the Trident Save-a-Smile Foundation by contacting Crystal Mathura, Director of Business Development. 

Interested in participating in the Save-a-Smile mission, including upcoming events? Contact cmathura@tridentendo.com today!

The post Trident Endo Celebrates its Largest Volunteer Turnout at the 6th Annual Save-A-Smile Event! appeared first on Trident ENDO | Endo Specialty Management Solutions.

Although Thanksgiving is right around the corner, the Total Endo team got a jump on giving thanks by hosting our 2nd annual referral appreciation CE course in accordance with the ADA CERP on November 15, from 6:00-8:00 PM.

The official CE course topic, “Endodontic Case Difficulty Assessment & Referral: Do the Root Canal Treatment or Refer to an Endodontist,” was presented by our charismatic speaker, the very in-demand endodontist and owner of Total Endo, Dr. Janatha “Jonny” Withanachchi. 

The purpose of the CE course was to help attendees gain the ability to identify and classify endodontic cases using the AAE Case Difficulty Assessment Form, and recognize which procedures should be within the capabilities of the generalist in order to make the appropriate referral when required. 

In order to effectively make these assessments, Dr. Jonny presented the risk ratings, 1-3: 1 representing average or uncomplicated cases, 2 indicating high or complicated and 3 signaling an extreme risk. By relying on this rating system, along with the American Society of Anesthesiologists Classification System, and individual patient considerations, practitioners can determine when to refer, rather than treat. 

As Dr. Jonny says, “I believe in creating a pain-free experience, not just during treatment but throughout your entire journey. Let’s keep your smile shining!” 

Learn more about Dr. Jonny’s background and expertise by clicking here to read his bio.

Hosted at Morton’s Steakhouse Hackensack location, our 16 attendees enjoyed a first-class three-course meal, beer and wine, and the chance to participate in our raffle.

We’re delighted to report that the event was a huge hit, thanks to our enthusiastic attendees.

Dr. Jonny was joined by Total Endo’s other two esteemed endodontists, Dr. Claudia Garces and Dr. Gyu Park, who answered questions and presented referral appreciation gifts. 

Somehow the evening flew by, leaving us excited to plan our next referral appreciation event!

“This is the second time I’ve gone to a CE event hosted by the Total Endo team and they, once again, outdid themselves. It’s refreshing to register for CE opportunities that are actually fun to attend, and I always learn something from these amazing endodontists.”

We’re blushing! 

For endodontic expertise convenient to you, we invite you to visit either of our two locations in Englewood or South Orange. 

Either way, you can’t go wrong! As you can see by this review, which also speaks to the importance of knowing when to refer your patient to an endodontist:

“First, I had a bad practice at a different dentist. I went to a new one and she told me I had to find an endodontist to do a root canal. I found Total Endo which has excellent reviews…I am more than happy, I went yesterday to have the treatment done and surprisingly I didn’t even notice when Dr. Jonny gave me anesthesia. I don’t even feel like I had a root canal. Such a great experience and all the staff were very friendly.”

Ready to refer your patients to our Total Endo team? 

Visit this page to refer patients electronically. We look forward to exceeding their expectations and we pride ourselves on being the ideal referral partner for your practice.

The post Serving Up Thanks and Sharing Knowledge: Referral Appreciation at its Finest! appeared first on Trident ENDO | Endo Specialty Management Solutions.

What can we tell you about Dr. Lessing?

Although she loves to solve problems but doesn’t like the spotlight, we still can’t resist sharing this short bio on Sunia Lessing, DDS, MS.

Located at our RCT North Potomac office, Dr. Lessing has been in practice for more than 21 years, having graduated from The University of Chicago and later the University of Maryland School of Dentistry where she earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree and Endo Certificate. 

A member of the International Academy of Women (IAE), New Jersey Association of Endodontists: NJAE, and American Association of Endodontists (AAE), Dr. Lessing is passionate about her profession partly because “It is the best feeling in the world to be able to relieve someone’s pain, and do so painlessly.”

A self-professed avid cookbook hoarder, when she isn’t caring for patients at RCT Endo, Dr. Lessing says “Hanging out with my family is my absolute favorite pastime, and if it is near a beach, even better!”

We always ask our new team members to share their favorite quote during our initial conversations. Dr. Lessing credits her high school math teacher with the words she lives by, which are, “You can be good at a lot of things, but to be the best you must choose one.” 

And we also like to know their coffee preference! In Dr. Lessing’s case, she takes her coffee with two creamers and one Stevia. 

Our RCT Endo team is delighted that Dr. Lessing focused her profession on endodontics and followed her journey to the best endodontic practice in North Potomac.

Welcome, Dr. Lessing!

Contact us today to learn more or discuss opportunities for joining our growing team!

The post Welcome New Endodontist Team Member – Dr. Sunia Lessing to the RCT North Potomac Office! appeared first on Trident ENDO | Endo Specialty Management Solutions.

Whether you, a friend, or family member, have questions about what to expect from a root canal, the following answers from our team will have you covered. 

Commonly Asked Questions about Root Canals

We’ve all heard the expression “there are no silly questions,” and when it comes to getting a root canal, this is certainly the case. 

Part of our mission at Trident Endo is to educate patients on what to expect at one of our endodontic practices and to put you at ease and exceed your expectations.

The following represent the most common questions our team is routinely asked about root canals…  

What is a root canal treatment?

A root canal treatment, also known as endodontic therapy, is a dental procedure that was developed to diagnose and treat damaged tooth pulp. The procedure involves removing any infected pulp, followed by thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting the root canal, and finally filling and sealing it to protect against further infection.

What happens during a root canal treatment?

Dr. Alexis Herring of Bay Endodontics explains how root canals are meant to be painless and demonstrates the procedure.

Why would I need a root canal treatment?

Root canal treatments are typically required for a number of reasons, including tooth pulp that is infected or inflamed because of serious decay, any chips or cracks in the tooth, injury or trauma, or repeated dental procedures. The procedure aims to save the tooth from extraction and alleviate pain caused by the infection.

How do I know if I need a root canal treatment?

Common signs that may indicate the need for a root canal treatment include sensitivity to temperatures, both hot and cold, a serious and persistent toothache, tender or swollen gums, a persistent pimple on the gum, and discoloration of the tooth. However, only a dental professional can accurately diagnose the need for a root canal treatment.

What is an endodontist?

An endodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on diagnosing and treating dental pulp and root canal-related issues. They receive additional training beyond dental school to become experts in performing root canal treatments and other endodontic procedures.

How long does a root canal treatment take?

The duration of a root canal treatment depends on the complexity of the case and the tooth that requires treatment. Typically, most root canal treatments are completed over the course of one or up to three appointments; each one lasting between one hour to 90 minutes.   

Is a root canal treatment painful?

The root canal treatment itself is performed under local anesthesia, which ensures that you should not feel any pain during the procedure. However, you may experience some discomfort or sensitivity in the treated area in the days following the treatment. This can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medications.

Are there alternatives to root canal treatment?

In most cases, the only alternative to a root canal treatment is tooth extraction. However, it is always recommended to save the natural tooth whenever possible, as tooth extraction can lead to other complications and may require additional, more costly dental work, such as a dental implant or bridge.

How successful is a root canal treatment?

Root canal treatments have a high success rate, with over 90% of cases being successful. However, the success of the treatment depends on various factors, such as the severity of the infection, the tooth’s condition, and proper follow-up care, including restoration of the tooth with a dental crown or filling.

Do I still need a root canal if the pain has disappeared? What happens if I delay treatment?

When you’re prescribed endodontic therapy or a root canal, you need to follow through with treatment, regardless of whether or not the pain has dissipated. Unfortunately, dental pain can come and go, which is why your tooth should not be left untreated. Like any other problem, ignoring or putting off a solution will lead to more dental issues. 

Having a root canal treatment done at an endodontist’s office can be considered less risky for several reasons:

• Specialized Training: Endodontists are dental specialists who undergo additional years of training beyond dental school to specifically focus on diagnosing and treating dental pulp and root canal-related issues. Their specialized training equips them with a deep understanding of complex root canal anatomy and advanced techniques for performing these procedures. They have a higher level of expertise in managing complicated cases and can handle challenging situations more effectively.

• Advanced Technology: Endodontists typically have access to advanced technology and equipment specifically designed for root canal treatments. They may utilize microscopes, digital imaging, ultrasonic instruments, and other specialized tools to enhance precision and effectiveness during the procedure. This advanced technology can contribute to more accurate diagnosis, better treatment outcomes, and reduced risks associated with the procedure.

• Experience and Volume: Endodontists primarily focus on performing root canal treatments and other endodontic procedures. Due to their specialized practice, they often have more experience and handle a higher volume of cases compared to general dentists. This experience allows them to develop expertise, fine-tune their skills, and stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in endodontic techniques. Their familiarity with a wide range of cases can result in improved treatment outcomes and reduced risks.

• Complex Cases: Endodontists are better equipped to handle complex root canal cases. These may involve situations such as intricate root canal anatomy, retreatment of failed root canals, or addressing complications like curved or calcified canals. Their specialized training and experience enable them to navigate these complexities more effectively, minimizing the risk of complications and improving the chances of a successful outcome.

• Collaboration with Dentists: Our Endodontists work closely with general dentists and other dental specialists as part of a collaborative dental team. This partnership allows for comprehensive treatment planning and coordination, ensuring that our patients receive the most appropriate and effective care. General dentists may refer patients to endodontists for specialized root canal treatments, further enhancing the quality and safety of the procedure.

It’s important to note that many general dentists also perform root canal treatments with excellent results. However, if your case is complex or requires specialized expertise, an endodontist may offer a higher level of confidence and assurance. 

Consulting with your dentist and an endodontist can help determine the most suitable treatment approach for your specific situation.

Contact our office to schedule a consultation with one of our esteemed endodontists!

Locate a Trident Endodontist Near You

The post Getting to the Root of the Problem: FAQs About Root Canals appeared first on Trident ENDO | Endo Specialty Management Solutions.

Last year, our team was able to donate $41,111 in professional root canal treatment services and we managed to save over 20 natural teeth. We were impressed and grateful for the support of our community, corporate donors, and volunteers.

Little did we know that we would crush the 2022 treatments at our 2023 Save-a-Smile event, which resulted in donating $45,069 in root canals and $7,403 in dental treatments, for a total of $52,472. Our teams generously completed 23 root canals on 21 patients in one day!

To say we’re feeling a little like superheroes is an understatement and right in line with this month’s theme of the American Association of Endodontists (AAE) Save-Your-Tooth month.   

As of today, the Trident Endo Save-a-Smile initiative has contributed more than $220,000 in specialized endodontic treatments domestically in support of our mission to ensure that life-altering dental care is accessible to all, regardless of socioeconomic status. We’re delighted to share that our mission has reached 114 patients in five years.

We’re ever thankful for the support that endodontists have extended to our effort, along with our colleagues in non-profit clinics and community outreach centers. 

We are especially grateful to Dr. Lucciola Lambruschini, director of dental services at the Catholic Charities Center of Washington DC who has worked alongside us in support of the community for  five years.

We extend special and heartfelt thanks to our donors and corporate sponsors, including Bay Endodontics, Brassler, DC Endo Center, Dentsply, and Maryland State Dental Association Foundation, as well as our 44 incredible volunteers of endodontists, dentists, dental assistants, and administrative teams:

Smiling is a Super Power

A big believer in the power of smiles and laughter, American comedian Phyllis Diller once said, “A smile is a curve that sets everything straight.” 

We love this clever take on the value of a healthy smile. Access to preventive and restorative dental care is not universal, and many people are denied the treatment that, in Diller’s words, sets everything straight.

There is no substitute for a healthy, bright smile or for the confidence it inspires. Trident Endo remains committed to the mission of the Save-a-Smile Initiative and is grateful to those affiliates, employees, and volunteers that make it possible for us to treat these patients in need.

As our founder, Dr. Ronald C. Taylor attests, “We’re doing more than just saving teeth; we’re changing lives. Our goal is to give back to the communities that support our practices on an annual basis. It’s the very least we can do as a business.” 

Stay up to date on all things Trident Endo by visiting our website and following us on social media!

The post Soaring to New Heights with Our Annual Save-a-Smile Event appeared first on Trident ENDO | Endo Specialty Management Solutions.

In this case, we collaborated with RCT Endo to share some exciting educational in-person events. The first was a resounding success and was taught by RCT Endo’s own Dr. Ammar Awadi. 

In case you missed it, we’ll share a quick recap, followed by a preview and registration details to help you sign up for the next one!

But first… 

Meet Dr. Ammar Awadi

After earning his undergraduate degree from Baghdad University, Dr. Awadi completed his DMD and Endodontic residency at Boston University. A member of the MDS and AAE associations, Dr. Awadi practiced general dentistry in Boston for seven years before practicing endodontics.

When he isn’t providing exceptional endodontic care to his patients, Dr. Awadi enjoys watching sports – soccer in particular – and spending time with friends and family. Always on the move, Dr. Awadi also likes biking and walking, and – fun fact! -he hopes to one day have traveled to all seven continents.

Dr. Awadi Teaches Advances in Endodontics

On April 13th, Dr. Awadi offered a 2-credit CE course on Advances in Endodontics, hosted at the Copper Canyon Grill. During his presentation, attendees learned how new advances in endodontics, including CBCT, imaging, instruments, and irrigation techniques are changing the game!

Attendees enjoyed dinner, drinks, and dessert during the presentation, and had the chance to enter a raffle. Everyone walked away with more endodontic knowledge, 2-credits to back it up, and even a gift bag!

What are referrals saying about the event?

We believe in honest feedback about all of our events, which is why we shared a survey with attendees, asking them what they liked or could improve about Dr. Awadi’s presentation. 

Here are a few highlights… 

“Interesting information on root fracture healing and a good reminder to use additional measures to adequately irrigate canals!”

“The meeting and presentation were well organized, as were all communications regarding the event. Not surprised!”

“Short and sweet. Very informative.” 

Next Up: Cybersecurity takes center stage!

On April 27th we hosted a healthcare cybersecurity 2 credit CE Course, with industry expert, Black Talon Security. Thank you to Jason West at Henry Schein for hosting our event at their Columbia office.

Who is Black Talon Security?

Black Talon is a cybersecurity company focused on protecting dentists and specialists from cybersecurity incidents through education and training. Information on their services can be found at www.blacktalonsecurity.com. 

As stated by the FBI, ransomware causes over $1 billion in damages – every year.

Hackers and cybercriminals are turning their attention to healthcare practices. Why? Because you’ve got all of the patients’ data and insurance information, which can make you an easy target!

Attendees learned how to protect their practices from these criminals and ransomware. 

Check out what Bart Silverman, DMD, and other dental professionals, had to say about their experiences with Black Talon Security as featured on Black Talon Security’s testimonial page:

“This letter is in reference to my experience with Black Talon Security.  Black Talon Security engaged me six months ago regarding cyber security for my practice. Even though I was told by my IT company that we were very secure, BTS was able to find some significant deficiencies in my network that would have left me vulnerable to a multitude of attacks.

Throughout this process, they have been extremely professional and attentive to my concerns. I feel that all my colleagues need to take a serious look at security enhancements in order to properly protect their electronic patient health information. With the significant costs and hardships associated with a breach, my feeling is that this is no longer something that we should be considering, it is a must-have. I unequivocally recommend BTS to my colleagues.”

We are super excited to learn more about cybersecurity for our practice and invite you to do the same for yours! Don’t miss this exciting opportunity. 

Sign up for our email list to hear about future CE opportunities!

Contact us today to learn more or discuss opportunities!

The post April Showers Brought Two CE Events for RCT Endo appeared first on Trident ENDO | Endo Specialty Management Solutions.

When it comes to finding amazing endodontists to join our team, we know that the best of the best are too busy keeping all the plates spinning at their own successful practices to have their eyes open to new opportunities.

That’s partly why, at Trident Endo, a DSO run by endodontists, we are on a mission to provide endodontists with opportunities to be part of the leadership and create a practice that represents them.

The trouble is we can’t complete our mission without your help. Of course, we would never ask for something for nothing.

That’s why we’ve created our Referral Program, an incentive we extend to you for helping us find the talent we’re looking for to grow our team. 

If you have a friend or colleague who might be a great fit for the Trident Endo Team, refer them to us and receive $5,000 for everyone who joins our award-winning practice. 

Right now, we have incredible opportunities for endodontists in our practices located in Washington D.C, Maryland, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania — all of which are top-rated locations boasting modernized amenities and digital capabilities.

Not to mention an impressive and friendly roster of highly accomplished endodontists, like Dr. Alexis Herring, who shares, “As an endodontist working with Trident Endo, I feel empowered by the systems they have set in place to create a well-functioning work environment. I am able to show up refreshed, and focus solely on patient care!”

Check out our available positions and take advantage of our finder’s fee.

Refer an endodontist here and earn $5,000 for anyone who joins our team!

Thank you for supporting our mission and empowering us to continue to elevate the endodontic industry in our beloved communities.

For any questions, we invite you to reach out via email to: hr@tridentendo.com or call (301) 857-8700.

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