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.

We’re always eager to welcome new talent to our team, and we also recognize that relocating your career can be a daunting undertaking. You find yourself wondering if you’re making the right move — quite literally! — both for your professional trajectory and your personal fulfillment.

While we can’t make the decision for you, we have compiled a few practical considerations approved by the American Association of Endodontists to help you find your footing… 

What to consider before exploring endodontic opportunities elsewhere

Relocating for better opportunities is common, certainly, but that doesn’t make it less overwhelming or challenging. As with any major decision, there’s a dose of uncertainty underpinning your thought process. 

Fortunately, by focusing on some practical considerations, you should be able to gain clarity and decide whether relocating is right for you. 

#1 What are the licensing requirements in your target state? 

The licensing requirements for endodontists can vary from one state to the next, which is why it’s important to check out licensing requirements by state before considering a new opportunity. 

#2 What does the endodontic landscape look like in your ideal location?

While you might have decided on the ideal address, you need to make sure that the endodontic landscape isn’t overly saturated. If it is, finding the right opportunity will likely be harder. 

#3 Does your location align with your professional trajectory?

In other words, be mindful of any non-compete clauses in your existing contract that could negatively impact your ability to explore new opportunities elsewhere. Always look at your professional goals and any legal obstacles to pursuing them before you start packing boxes. 

Where can I work on a Trident team?

We’re delighted to report that we have amazing opportunities along the East coast, specifically in Washington DC, Maryland, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Not sure which state will be most compelling for your professional path and personal journey? 

We’ve done some of the relocation research for you and are pleased to present the following, organized by each of our state locations:

Reasons to live and work in Maryland

There’s a reason the majority of our offices are located in Maryland. Actually, there are many! Maryland offers so many advantages to working professionals and families, including the following: 

• Skilled and educated workforce
• Maryland is the most diverse state on the East Coast!
• Top-rated schools, including primary and secondary education. In fact, Maryland boasts some of the nation’s best STEM schools
• Infrastructure that keeps businesses online and connected
• A location that can’t be beat: ⅓ of the U.S. population is within an overnight drive
• Culture you can count on, with Maryland cities ranked among the top 10 most diverse in the country
• Financial perks, like the lowest share of state and local business taxes paid by business.
• Active lifestyle and hobbies a-plenty! With so many opportunities for outdoor advantage, it’s not surprising that Howard County is ranked the healthiest community across the country! 

Just a stone’s throw away from our Maryland-based locations, you might consider some of the reasons to relocate to Washington, D.C., which is home to three of our top-tier locations. 

Specifically, you might make a move for any of these reasons to relocate to Washington D.C., such as:

• Employment stability and healthy job market
• Free access to museums, which are considered among the finest in the world
• A diverse population
• Cyclists can celebrate that Washington D.C. is ranked as the third most bike-friendly city in the U.S.
• Public transportation commuters can actually count on; D.C. residents enjoy the second fastest commute time in the country!

Why you should relocate to Pennsylvania

Similar to Maryland, check out the number of reasons to live and work in Pennsylvania, including exceptional educational institutions, an experienced workforce, and enviable quality of life, marked by a low cost of living and plenty of public transport options. 

In addition… 

• Pennsylvania is the most economically diverse state in the country, featuring the nation’s 6th largest economy
• With a business-friendly tax climate, Pennsylvania’s corporate net income tax is among the country’s lowest
• An abundance of affordable housing and exceptional healthcare supports a happier, healthy lifestyle
• Outdoor enthusiasts have amazing options for adventure and exercise.
• Pennsylvania is proud of its culinary scene, which offers flavors to delight any foodie.

Go further north to New Jersey

If you’ve ever considered moving to the Big Apple but worry you might miss routine access to natural scenery and rural escapes, northern New Jersey might be the ideal place to relocate. 

The reasons to move to New Jersey are varied, and include some impressive rankings, such as being the 5th happiest state in the country, which could be attributed to:

• An impressive healthcare system, actually ranked 4th in the United States
• Considered one of the safest states in the country
• Robust job market
• Diverse communities and an abundance of international cuisine
• Easy access to major metropolitan areas like New York City
• Stunning natural scenery, including the beach and mountains
• 1st place ranking for Pre-K-12 schools

With locations in all four of these amazing states, you’ve got some compelling options to consider if you’re eager to practice in another state.

Check out some more information about what it takes to join our team and please feel free to contact us with any questions! Our HR team would be happy to speak with you and answer any questions regarding this transition if this is something you are considering. 

We look forward to meeting and (hopefully!) working with you! 

The post It’s Your Endodontic Journey: Don’t Limit Yourself to Your Current State appeared first on Trident ENDO | Endo Specialty Management Solutions.

First up: Meet Dr. Jaclyn Cruz of Endodontic Specialists!

Born and raised in the Hudson Valley, NY, Dr. Cruz received her dual Bachelor of Science degree, cum laude, in Biology and Psychology from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) in Troy, NY. 

Dr. Cruz then matriculated to the prestigious University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine in Philadelphia, PA where she received her D.M.D. degree graduating magna cum laude. Dr. Cruz then pursued a two-year post-doctoral residency training at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in Boston, MA, where she was awarded a Speciality Certificate in Endodontics.

After completing her specialty training in endodontics, Dr. Cruz moved back to Pennsylvania, where she currently lives with her husband who is also a fellow dentist. Dr. Cruz is extremely passionate about endodontics and enjoys saving teeth while relieving those in pain. She is known for her gentle and calm bedside manner, and her goal is to always make her procedures as relaxing and comfortable as possible for all of her patients.

As she explains, “I love helping patients get out of pain and make it as comfortable of an experience as possible.”

Dr. Cruz’s professional affiliations include the American Association of Endodontics (AAE), the Massachusetts Association of Endodontists (MAE), and the American Dental Association (ADA). Dr. Cruz is also eligible for her Endodontic Board Certification and is working to become Board Certified.

When Dr. Cruz is not working, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends in New York and Philadelphia, spending time outdoors, cooking, traveling, and going to 76ers games with her husband.

Next up: Welcome Dr. Claudia Garces to the Total Endo team!

Joining our Total Endo South Orange team, Claudia Garces, DMD, brings with her a wealth of knowledge and expertise, along with a demonstrated service record and philanthropic spirit. 

A 2020 graduate of Rutgers School of Dental Medicine, Dr. Garces served as Treasurer for the Hispanic Student Association of Rutgers School of Dental Medicine. Prior to studying at Rutgers, Dr. Garces earned her Bachelor of Science Summa Cum Laude from Fayetteville State University. 

A veteran of the United States Army, Dr. Garces served as an automated logistical specialist and helped provide humanitarian assistance as part of Operation Unified Response, following the 2010 earthquake that devastated Haiti. 

As a volunteer with the United States Red Cross at Fort Bragg in North Carolina, Dr. Garces assisted with a variety of dental procedures and actively recruited volunteers.

Fluent in Spanish, Dr. Garces recently co-authored the study “Incidence of second mesial buccal canal in maxillary first molars in a residency program. A comparison between the beginning and the end of residency,” published in the American Association of Endodontics Abstract Submission. 

Finally; Meet Dr. Abasin Safi, joining Painless Root Canal Specialists!

A graduate of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Dr. Safi completed dental school at Illinois’ Midwestern University.  While in dental school, Dr. Safi met his wife and decided to stay in the Chicagoland area, practicing as a general dentist for six years prior to starting his Endodontic Residency at Oregon Health & Science University. 

Every appointment is handled with care. Dr. Safi’s patients’ oral health is his first priority. 

A member of the American Association of Endodontists and the American Dental Association, Dr. Safi tells us: “I love subverting my patient’s expectations and leaving them with a positive experience.”

Born in Afghanistan, Dr. Safi lived in Europe before moving to the United States. As someone so well-traveled, it’s no wonder that Dr. Safi would choose teleportation and the ability to instantly travel anywhere as his superpower. 

Until then, Dr. Safi might be found exploring the coffee shops and restaurant scene with his wife, golfing, and traveling out of state or abroad with his family, despite his inability to teleport.  

Dr. Safi lives by the adage, “If you want something you’ve never had, you must be willing to do something you’ve never done.”

We are thrilled to welcome these three fantastic endodontists to the Trident Endo Team! Please contact our office directly with any inquiries, or to request an appointment with any of our talented team members.

The post Welcoming New Endodontists to the Trident Endo Family 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.

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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And, since we believe continuing education is not only critical, but should be fun, the course included dinner at The Fox and the Falcon Restaurant, drinks, a gift bag, and the CE admin fee. 

Our speaker, and leading endodontist, Dr. Janatha Withanachchi, is a fan favorite among our registrants, renowned for his expertise and appreciated for his engaging personality. 

About Dr. Janatha Withanachchi

Dr. Janatha Withanachchi (known as Dr. Jonny) has been an endodontist since 2008. He is the owner of Total Endodontics South Orange and Total Endodontics Englewood.  Dr. Jonny received his postdoctoral endodontic certification from New York University and is highly skilled with surgical microscopes, post removals, retreatments, and perforation repair. 

He received his dental doctorate from Howard University, where he also received the Board of Trustees Scholarship. Dr. Jonny has spent the majority of his career in New York and New Jersey treating thousands of patients. He understands his patients’ immediate needs and goes out of his way to provide a unique chairside experience that leaves patients saying, “the only pain was saying goodbye.”

He is a member of many local and national organizations, including the NJDA, NYDA, AAE, and ADA. Dr. Jonny lectures and reviews root canal cases as an expert.

The Goal of the Course

Dr. Jonny, covered critical topics throughout his two-hour coronal leakage course, including:

• The concept of coronal leakage
• What causes endodontic pathology
• Major goals of root canal treatment
• How quickly can the exposed root canal system get contaminated
• Ways to prevent coronal leakage

Ultimately, participants completed the course empowered to address coronal leakage for optimal endodontic success in their practices… and had plenty of fun while doing so!

If you’re experiencing after-the-fact feelings of FOMO, don’t fret. 

Total Endo is committed to offering continuing education courses on a regular basis in order to elevate our collective endodontic industry. 

Interested in having Dr. Jonny teach at one of your upcoming events?  To learn more about Total Endo visit www.total-endo.com.

This event was produced with the support of Trident Endo, a leading endodontic support organization representing endodontic practices in New Jersey, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Washington DC.  If you are looking for support like this for your practice, contact Trident Endo today!

If you have any inquiries about Total Endo please email appointments@total-endo.com.

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Our Favorite Open House Footage

New to this area, we had no idea how welcoming and generous our Englewood neighbors would prove to be, which makes us even happier that we have chosen this fantastic location for our endodontic practice.

Like proud parents with a wallet full of photos (okay, we’re dating ourselves), check out our favorite photos from the open house, including the ribbon-cutting ceremony featuring Englewood’s Chamber of Commerce, with Englewood’s Mayor Michael Wildes. #ProudMoment

Meet Englewood’s New Endodontist, Dr. Park

For those who weren’t able to attend the Total Endo Open House event, here is a little information about Dr. Park, Englewood’s new, board-certified endodontist.

Dr. Gyu Park is Englewood’s newest board-certified endodontist and is at the helm of Total Endo’s new office, conveniently located at 300 Grand Avenue, Suite 204, right here in Englewood.

Check Out Dr. Park’s Impressive Bio!

Dr. Gyu Park developed a special interest in Endodontics while working as a general practitioner. It was extremely satisfying for him to treat patients with teeth-related diseases and cure their symptoms without having to extract the problematic teeth.

Dr. Park completed the Endodontics Residency program at New York University and became a Board-certified Endodontist as a result of following his passion (Diplomate of the American Board of Endodontics).

On a daily basis, Dr. Park sees pediatric, adult, geriatric, emergency, and medically compromised patients. His clinical experience includes root canal treatment, retreatment, apicoectomy, incision and drainage, root resection, hemisection, dental trauma management, autotransplantation, and intentional tooth replantation.

Interested in booking an appointment or learning more about Total Endo?

Give us a call at (201) 308-6911. We look forward to meeting you!

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