Wyoming State Denturist Association or wysda.org

Denturists as Midlevel Oral Healthcare Providers

2012-01-25T23:56:00.000-07:00

Regarding the link from Dr. Bicuspid.com,titled Bill would allow Calif. to study midlevel providers By Editor Donna Domino, http://www.drbicuspid.com/index.aspx?d=1&sec=sup&sub=pmt&pag=dis&ItemID=309631&wf=1095 Padilla’s SB 694 includes the following; “The research parameters of the study shall include public health settings, multiple models of dentist supervision, multiple pathways of education and training, and multiple dental providers, including dentists and nondentists.” We are in need of midlevel dental and oral health care providers that are independent and not subject to the American Dental Association policies. If ADA and its state constituents are so concerned about public safety; then pitch in some of the millions of dollars used for lobbying against competitors, and use it for education and training, the most important three words in SB 694. If corporate ADA would quit squeezing out competition it would free up more chairtime for children, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dental procedures but instead, the ADA and its state constituents lobby federal and state legislators to disregard legislation that would regulate the denturist profession in many states that include Kentucky, Oklahoma and Wyoming. The ADA and its state dental associations spend money to persecute denturists. It was just a year or two ago the California Dental Association sent letters to qualified and reputable denturist throughout California threatening felony prosecution if they didn’t close their denturist practices. Some had been established for decades. This is ridiculous. Please see 2nd link. Most dentists want nothing to do with dentures due to chairtime being consumed by problematic cases and procedures. In most cases it comes down to dentists charging for adjustments, discouraging patients from returning. This practice is unethical. The ADA lobbied for exclusion of language to expand the Dental Health Aide Therapists (DHAT’s) programs. The American Dental Association, wasted money fighting Alaska and lost; trying to prevent DHAT’s from providing dental services to Natives of Alaska living in remote areas. ADA lobbies to suppress dental hygienists from having independent boards and practices. A few states like Maine and California; dental hygienists have recently gained their independence. This enables the dental hygienist to better serve public health interests. Dental Therapists (DT’s) were created by the American Dental Association after the fact; Dental Health Aide Therapists (DHAT’s) were created as an independent practice for Alaskan Natives in Alaskas rural areas. Dental Therapist will work under the dentist supervision; in the same way a dental hygienist does in states not recognizing independence for hygienists. DT’s will have little impact on reducing the cost of dental care for the consumer. Dental Therapists and Dental Health Aide Therapists are two different professions with different responsibilities and work settings, DT’s within the dentist’s office and DHAT’s outside the dentist’s office via teleconference and video cams. Minnesota, so far is the only state with DT’s and Alaska is the only state with DHAT's. Please consider the following links; the third being from the Minnesota Dental Board, regarding Dental Therapists and the forth about Dental Health Aide Therapists. The ADA’s self-serving political agenda is hurting consumers by suppressing qualified competitors that provide oral health care services to those with disparities. The American Dental Association works against its own vision and mission statement by suppressing competition that has been trained and educated in providing oral health care services to those that are unable to pay the high prices charged by dentist, leaving Americans without needed dental care. Free up chairtime by using the oral healthcare workforce that is trained, educated, and available. We can’t even get ADA’s exclusive CODA to approve our only denturist program at Bates Technical College, in Tacoma, Washington, (please see link #5) which is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), an institutional accrediting body recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Education. Please see accreditation under same link. Corporate ADA has the power and the money to change the current oral health care delivery system for the better if Americans would speak out against the American Dental Associations deceiving and pacifying public relations campaign for a better public image. Gary W. Vollan L.D. State Coordinator, Wyoming State Denturist Association 1.www.wysda.org 2. http://www.sfweekly.com/2010-09-29/news/prosecutors-frown-on-guy-who-makes-dentures-for-ex-cons/ 3. http://www.dentalboard.state.mn.us/Default.aspx?tabid=1165 4. http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=web&cd=1&ved=0CDAQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wkkf.org%2F~%2Fmedia%2FF2E86B5717174D2E9311359902DF7216.ashx&ei=RSoJT4z9DoLSiAK2g_yrBQ&usg=AFQjCNHqT9Dmfw7WG194N-Aw9xZKkB-a2A&sig2=8GUIJtr3416NhFGS17QfmQ 5. http://www.bates.ctc.edu/page.asp?view=153

American Dental Assn | OpenSecrets

2012-01-06T22:59:00.000-07:00

American Dental Assn | OpenSecrets

Here is another reason why most people can't afford dental care.

Specialty dental care remains out of reach for many poor Illinois children

2012-01-05T23:34:00.000-07:00

Specialty dental care remains out of reach for many poor Illinois children

2012-01-04T08:50:00.000-07:00

Specialty dental care remains out of reach for many poor Illinois children

Wyoming Top Blogs » Wyoming State Denturist Association or wysda.org » Denturists and the Wyoming Dental Practice Act » Public Blog Aggregator of Wyoming (WY)

2011-12-31T14:01:00.000-07:00

Wyoming Top Blogs » Wyoming State Denturist Association or wysda.org » Denturists and the Wyoming Dental Practice Act » Public Blog Aggregator of Wyoming (WY)

Occupy the Denturist Profession

2011-12-28T13:28:00.000-07:00

This is my fight against corporate greed that affects each and every one of us unable to afford needed dental work. We are in need of midlevel dental and oral health care providers that are independent; not subject to the American Dental Association policies.

If corporate ADA would quit squeezing out competition it would free up more chairtime for children, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dental procedures but instead, the ADA lobbies federal and state legislators to disregard legislation that would regulate the denturist profession in many states that include Kentucky and Wyoming. The ADA spends money to persecute denturists.

The ADA lobbied for exclusion of language to expand the dental health aide therapists programs. The American Dental Association, wasted money fighting Alaska and lost; trying to prevent dental health aide therapists from providing dental services to Natives of Alaska living in remote areas. The ADA lobbies to suppress dental hygienists from having independent boards and practices.

The ADA’s self-serving political agenda is hurting consumers by suppressing qualified competitors that provide oral health services to those with disparities. The American Dental Association works against its vision and mission statement by suppressing competition that has been trained and educated in providing oral health care services to those that are unable to pay the high prices charged by dentist leaving Americans without needed dental care.

Many people do without needed dental care because of high prices charged by dentist; not being eligible for Medicaid, low income programs and not having dental healthcare insurance.

Corporate ADA has power and money to change the current dental care delivery system for the better if Americans would speak out against the American Dental Associations deceiving and pacifying public relations campaign for a better public image.

Gary W. Vollan L.D.

State Coordinator, Wyoming State Denturist Association

www.wysda.org

American Dental Association's Mission

2011-12-27T13:57:00.000-07:00

The American Dental Association needs to lighten up on competition, such as denturists, dental health aide therapists and independent practices for dental hygienist. It spends more time and money fighting these professions when it could be a positive influence on creating entry level education for these professions in high schools and junior colleges. The American Dental Association specializes in greed and control and is not seeing the big picture of its own vision and mission statements. State dental associations are following ADA's leadership.

The American Dental Association needs to open schools and dental education for the previous listed dental professions, start more dental programs in community clinics, let dental hygienist have their own boards so they can govern themselves; being more effective in prevention and public health areas. ADA needs to quit prosecuting and shutting down denturists across our nation as they have in my case here in Wyoming. This will help with the bigger mission and vision of better oral healthcare which contributes to better overall health for our children, senior citizens, and others in need of affordable dental care.

It will also create jobs in the public sector, spreading the workforce; alleviating pressure on targeted, geographic dental clinics, giving the public more access to oral healthcare professionals. A bigger dental workforce helps the dental professions ability to meet the lacking dental needs in institutions, such as prisons, convalescent and retirement centers across our nation.

This positive and more productive redirection for the American Dental Association would definitely change ADA’s public image in meeting their dental needs, more so then a mere $75 winnings, ADA’s offer to the public for a website design idea, to better ADA’s image sometime back. Seventy-five dollars won’t even cover an exam and x-rays in most dental clinics. Blessing’s for the New Year.

Gary W. Vollan L.D.
Coordinator for the Wyoming State Denturist Association
wysda.org

Denturists and the Wyoming Dental Practice Act

2011-12-26T11:25:00.000-07:00

Dear Wyoming Legislators,

Okay, now what? The Wyoming Dental Board took away my impression privileges, I told you about sometime back as rule change forthcoming for the Wyoming Dental Practice Act. We have a shortage of dentists in areas of Wyoming and now it is mandatory that dentists take the master or final impression even though I and qualified dental chairside assistants and dental hygienist have been trained and educated in taking master and final impressions as a part of our daily procedures. My impressions have been next to excellent as the supporting foundation for removable procedures offered in services to our patients at Dr. Nelson’s, Page’s, Gilman’s and Basse’s dental office in Worland, Wyoming for the past four years. Let me guess as to what office they will watch for the new rules in impression taking requirements. My doctors have already received a warning letter from the state dental board. My dentists are the best in the state as far as empathy, quality and affordable prices for needed dental care. Wasn’t it enough in accordance to the Wyoming District and Supreme Court, that I work under the dentist’s umbrella? This is ridiculous.

I just finished the last of my classes to graduate in May of 2012 with a Bachelors Degree from the University of Wyoming. Since we are unable to pass legislation for a denturist program for the Wyoming people; will you consider passing legislation for a Dental Health Aide Therapists program such as approved in Alaska and some other states. These programs will provide better access to oral health care for the Wyoming people and I am willing to get the required education for a Wyoming DHAT program as long as I can provide removable oral prosthesis care. Kansas legislators are at this time considering a program.

The Wyoming people need alternatives to affordable dental care. Many are doing without needed care, especially seniors. The new rules changes for master and final impressions submitted and passed by the Wyoming Dental Board is a good example for the need of the Wyoming State Legislators to act in the best interest of the Wyoming people and their medical and dental needs. Why did the Wyoming Dental Board consider expanding duties for dentists when dental assistants, dental hygienists and denturists in Wyoming were doing a fine job in what they've been trained and educated in doing; giving dentists the time most needed in emergency and quality dental care for children and other Wyoming citizens?

Gary W. Vollan L.D.

Wyoming Denturist

Wyoming State Denturist Association

wysda.org

American Dental Association's Justification?

2011-08-13T09:11:00.000-06:00

Educated denturists are part of the oral health care team. The denturist profession needs the opportunity to serve those in need of removable dental prostheses and referral services. Chairtime for removables is demanding and needs to be freed up for children and emergencies.

The denturist profession needs to be independent from dentist's overhead in order to keep prices down and services available to those with disparities which includes an oral health exam for healthy tissue and if needed, referral services.

It's working in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, and Maine. The Arizona dental board has a freeze on the licensing of denturists in Arizona. The American Dental Association and affiliated state dental boards across our nation continues to suppress the denturist profession in other states by threatening to arrest and fine denturists such as they recently have done in California.

Denturists do NO invasive procedures or procedures which are irreversible and in most cases denturists guarantee their denture work with patient satisfaction or money back. Yet the ADA and state dental boards continue to allow oral piercing businesses to operate, turning their heads with fear of a backlash of protest from those involved. These procedures are extremely tissue invasive and in most cases irreversible with a greater chance of infection. Where is the justification?

Let denturists serve those we have been educated and trained to serve. Let denturists regulate our own on a national order so the people in need can have access and opportunity for an oral health care checkup and referral service along with a more affordable choice in denture care. What can be wrong with it?

Gary W. Vollan L.D.
www.wysda.org

Removing Dr. or D.D.S. on Google Sites Which My Name, Gary W. Vollan Appears

2011-07-01T22:57:00.000-06:00

My name is Gary W. Vollan. I'm a licensed denturist and for over three years I have worked with four excellent and professional dentists and the awesome staff associated with this dental office in Wyoming. In some of the google sites my name sometimes appears with Dr. in front of it or D.D.S. at the end of it. There is a dentist complaining about this outside of the dental group I work with. This is a concern with the dentists I work with because the complaining dentist is threatening to file a complaint with the Wyoming Dental Board against the dental group I work with. How can I get this correction made with the Google sites associated with this. I have never claimed or advertised to be a doctor or dentist. Thank you for your consideration in helping me with this problem.

Gary W. Vollan L.D.
Basin, Wyoming
vollan@tctwest.net

The American Dental Association’s Leadership is the Biggest Barrier to Affordable Dental Care

2011-06-03T00:44:00.000-06:00

This is in response to statements made by, Dr. Raymond F. Gist, president of the American Dental Association in the following, U.S. News & World Report article, Some Dentists Reluctant to Treat Kids on Medicaid: Study,
http://health.usnews.com/health-news/managing-your-healthcare/insurance/articles/2011/05/23/some-dentists-reluctant-to-treat-kids-on-medicaid-study

The American Dental Association’s Leadership is the Biggest Barrier to Affordable Dental Care

“The president of the American Dental Association, Dr. Raymond F. Gist, said the study supports the ADA's longstanding position that better funding for public-assistance programs is critical.”
"Lack of funding is among the greatest barriers to better oral health in America," Gist said. "But funding alone will not 'fix' Medicaid. Patients need help navigating an often complicated bureaucracy and overcoming other barriers."

Dr. Gist fails to see the needs of the American people. Dr. Gist fails to express empathy for the many Americans who face social, demographic, health and economic barriers preventing them from the much needed dental care, many can’t afford or don’t have access to. Many Americans are not eligible for Medicaid and have no dental insurance. Dr. Gist is putting the blame on low Medicaid funding, but fails to acknowledge ethics lacking in ADA’s leadership for professional public health responsibilities. Where is ADA’s philanthropy spirit? Many dentists receive a reasonable Medicaid payment for their interest in public health service to the economic, disadvantaged people of America.

The American Dental Association uses money to fight dental hygienists from having independent practices, so hygienists could better serve the public health sector in preventive measures. The American Dental Association fights and prevents denturists from having independent practices and in most cases funnels money to state dental associations to prosecute denturists so they can’t provide affordable denture care to people facing barriers. The American Dental Associations wasted money fighting Alaska to prevent dental health aide therapists from providing dental services to the Natives of Alaska living in remote areas.

Due to ADA’s greed, time and money are wasted pushing other professions away from the table and preventing Denturists professionals from serving those we have been trained and educated to serve. If the American Dental Association would quit squeezing out competition it would free up more chairtime for children, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dental procedures. ADA’s self-serving political agenda is hurting consumers by suppressing qualified competitors that provide oral health care services. Midlevel oral healthcare providers include denturists, dental health aide therapists, and independent practice for dental hygienists.

I'm trained, educated and licensed as a denturist to provide denture care directly to the public. How does the American Dental Association continue to work against its vision and mission statement, under ADA’s nonprofit status to persecute and suppress competition?

Gary W. Vollan L.D.
State Coordinator, Wyoming State Denturist Association
www.wysda.org
June 2, 2011

Wyoming State Denturist Association or wysda.org: Committee Looks at Changes to Denturist Bill: by K...

2011-02-05T22:57:00.000-07:00

Wyoming State Denturist Association or wysda.org: Committee Looks at Changes to Denturist Bill: by K...: "For the sixth straight year, Rep. Lorraine Quarberg (R-HD28, Thermopolis) and Sen. Gerry Geis (R-SD20, Worland) have been working to pass a ..."

Committee Looks at Changes to Denturist Bill: by Karla Pomeroy

2011-02-04T21:42:00.000-07:00

For the sixth straight year, Rep. Lorraine Quarberg (R-HD28, Thermopolis) and Sen. Gerry Geis (R-SD20, Worland) have been working to pass a bill that would allow licensed denturists to practice in Wyoming on their own.
This session, the bill is originating in the Senate and SF49 is before the Health and Labor Committee. Geis and Basin denturist Gary Vollan both testified in favor of the bill before the committee.
Vollan said he thought the chances of the bill advancing past committee “look pretty good.” He added that he appreciates the work of the local legislators on the bill.
Geis said the committee plans on making some amendments to the bill before taking action. He said the timeline for moving the bill forward is getting tight. Friday is the last day for bills to be reported out of committee in the “house of origin.” And Monday is the final day for first reading for bills that originate in the Senate or the House.
“I’d like to see it go (approved),” Geis said.
As Wyoming law currently stands, licensed denturists cannot open a practice in the state. Vollan currently works as chairside assistant and dental laboratory technician with Nelson and Page Dental PC in Worland.
SF49 (Wyoming Denture Practice Act) as its currently written, would set up a State Board of Denturists, provide for licensing and allow denturists to practice in the state.
Geis said his understanding of some of the changes the Health and Labor Committee may look at is having denturists work under the auspice of a licensed dentist, similar to how a nurse practitioner works under the oversight of a physician.
Vollan said some of the arguments against allowing denturists to practice don’t hold up. He said there is concern that denturists would diagnose and begin practicing dentistry.
“We don’t diagnose. If we notice unhealthy tissue we refer the patient to the appropriate dentist or oral physician,” Vollan said.
Under the bill, a denturist is defined as a person licensed under this article to engage in the practice of denturism; ’Practice of denturism’ means: (A) Making, placing, constructing, altering, reproducing or repairing a denture; and (B) Taking impressions and furnishing or supplying a denture directly to a person or advising the use of a denture and maintaining a facility for the same.”
Vollan said opponents of the bill state that the school denturists go to is not accredited. He said Bates Technical College in Tacoma, Wash., is accredited but noted that the denturist program at the college has been stymied by dental associations from getting accredited.
Vollan and Geis said it is uncertain at this time to know exactly what changes will be made Wednesday. “The changes will be interesting, but it’s going to be a start,” Vollan said.
“This is about the people of Wyoming and providing accessible and affordable denture care for them,” Vollan said. He said denturists can offer denture care at about half the cost of dentists. He said surrounding states including Montana and Idaho have licensed denturists and it gives people a choice in caring for their dentures.
“We do all the impressions, bite registrations and lab work. There’s no middle man,” he said.
Along with working on legislators to approve a bill, Vollan in 2007 attempted to get an initiative on the ballot to let the people decide. He had obtained 17,000 signatures from 17 counties in Wyoming before family obligations made him cutback on his initiative work and they fell short of the required signatures.
“It showed it’s something the Wyoming people want,” Vollan said.
He said there are three other denturists in Wyoming, with inquiries annually from others that would like to come and practice in Wyoming.

Karla Pomeroy, Editor
Basin Republican Rustler
breditor@tctwest.net
P.O. Box 640
Basin, WY 82410
568-2458
FAX 568-2459

Dentists Oppose Wyoming Denturist Bill SF49 Moving Forward

2011-02-04T09:45:00.000-07:00

Wyoming Denturist Bill SF49 Moving Forward February 4, 2011

The hearing Monday for the denturist bill, SF49 went well with Senator Geis testifying, then Representative Quarberg, and then myself. The room was full of dentists and their associates. As expected they gave unsupportive testimony for denturist and oral health issues, yet the state dental boards and the American Dental Association continues to allow oral piercings to take place in our children's mouths across our Nation. Denturists do no invasive or irreversible procedures.

The dentists once again attacked our denturist education program at Bates Technical School as not being accredited knowing that the American Dental Association's accreditation agency, CODA, the Commission on Dental Accreditation (seal of approval), will not accredit a denturist program. There was no mention that Bates is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, which is a division of the U.S. Department of Education. The dentists accused the denturist profession of being in a non-progressive state; this being in response to Chairman Scott asking two of the dentists, "with Montana and Idaho and four other states regulating denturists, what was their opinion of the future of the denturist profession". Chairman Scott suggested that the dentist find ways to make this work, the dentists responded that there wasn't a need for denturists and they weren't interested.

The dentists that testified represented the Wyoming Dental Board, the Wyoming Dental Association and one dentist referred to his generational decades of dental practice. Not one dentist mentioned denturist legislation introduced in Kentucky and other states like Maine that improves the existing denture delivery system. They never mentioned, the court cases taking place across our nation, with denturists and their families fighting state dental boards so they can provide denturists services they've been trained and educated to provide. They didn't mention the progressive state of our graduates from Bates and the denturist colleges across Canada that work with community clinics and convalescent centers in regulated states, to provide affordable denture care. They didn't mention the many denture laboratory technicians across our Nation who work for dentists for low competitive fees; having to bushwhack dentures on the side to friends and friends of friends so they're able to make a living.

The dentists that testified never mentioned the many economically disadvantaged people that would never step across their dental office threshold for denture care because they know they can't afford their denture services but these same people will go to the denturist. The dentists did not mention that denturists are on the front lines of oral health care in recognizing healthy tissue and referring these people out to a dentists, oral surgeons or medical doctors that will empathize with their economic situation. The dentists didn’t mention the states work associated with the success and reputation of regulating the denturist profession, that includes referral service between denturists and other professions, licensing, compliance, and continuing education all working together for the patients best interest. This is all about a progressive profession.

After the testimonies the vote was to make amendments to the bill then take a vote on Wednesday. The bill was trimmed down to denturist working with dentists and denturists have to be licensed as denturists and it was passed out of committee with a 3 to 2 vote. It goes to the Senate floor Friday, to be voted on. It isn’t much when it passes in representing the needs of affordable denture care because we will be under the dentists overhead, however, quality denture care will be addressed and as most denturists know, quality denture care is a shortcoming for most dentists. They don't have the chair-time that is needed for dentures. So please consider this as an opportunity, a foot in the door for denturists who want to live in Wyoming. I see it as a reason to celebrate; the Wyoming State Legislator's recognition of the denturist profession. The Wyoming Silver Haired Legislators have worked hard to lobby the cause. Representative Quarberg and Senator Geis have worked hard to bring the bill forward for the sixth legislative session and I’m thankful to the Senate, Labor, Health and Social Service Committee. A good number of Wyoming people have worked hard to show the need for the denturist profession. There is still a lot of work to do after SF49 passes. I'm a praying man and I'm ready to go to work.

Gary W. Vollan L.D.
www.wysda.org

Denturist Education Short "youtube" Clip

2010-10-06T20:40:00.001-06:00

My appreciation Senators and Representatives.

Please see this short "youtube" clip from one of our Canadian colleges. A denturist program would correspond with Sheridan College's Dental Hygienist Program as far as instructors, patients and areas taught by both professions. We have one accredited college in the U.S. which has a denturist program and that is Bates Technology College in Tacoma, Washington. At times it has a two year waiting list. Good program; Dr. Kais, retired U.S. Navy dentist runs it. We need more accredited college programs.

I'm working on my bachelors degree at University of Wyoming to teach the denturist profession at one of our colleges here in Wyoming. Please see what denturist education is about with the following short "youtube" clip from NAIT. More information on Bates and denturist education can be found on the Wyoming State Denturist Association web page www.wysda.org

Thank you for your consideration.
Gary W. Vollan L.D.

The Northern Alberta Institute of Technology http://www.nait.ca/
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WOPb4XfNXH4&feature=player_embedded

Injustice by the American Dental Association Against Denturists

2010-10-01T12:27:00.001-06:00

To Federal Trade Commission's Gus Cherello,

Please see the following links. The first link has to do with the Wyoming Dental Board's proposed rules changes with the Wyoming Dental Practice Act. I was hired almost three years ago with a fine group of dentist who provided me with two operatories in their office to do the necessary procedures to fit dentures. It was made clear to me that my titles would be an assistant and laboratory technician. This has been working out fine for those that can afford the high prices of dentures through a dental office. I'm using my skills as a denturist to evaluate, take impressions, bite registrations and other procedures necessary to provide denture care.

Now six years later, after my private denturist practice was closed down by the Wyoming Dental Board for no reason other than the fact that I was expanding to another small town; the Wyoming Dental Board wants to make changes in the rules so that I can no longer take master impressions. The changes will definitely make enough difference in dental office procedures that it may cost me my position. I feel the changes in the rules are directed at me and the dental office I'm working with and to discourage other dental offices from hiring denturist. In a state such as Wyoming that does not regulate the denturist profession; the American Dental Association encourages the state dental boards to make changes in state laws that include making it a felony to provide denturist services to the public.

The American Dental Association has targeted the denturist profession which are clearly spelled out in ADA's Policies. As you know I'm a licensed Oregon denturist who felt after reading Wyoming's Dental Practice Act that I did not fall under their jurisdiction. I fought it in district court and the Wyoming State Supreme Court with the court ruling in the Wyoming State Dental Board's favor.

The second link is related to one of my peers. Bob is a good man. He is respected by fellow denturists throughout our profession. His story is just one more of the many across our nation regarding denturists and the injustice that the American Dental Association and it's affiliated state dental boards continue to impose on us as individuals; keeping us from working and providing the services we've been trained and educated to provide. This is an injustice to those people in need of our services that can not afford the high prices charged by dentist due to their overhead. Thank you for your consideration.

Gary W. Vollan L.D. www.wysda.org

http://plboards.state.wy.us/dental/PDF/Chapter7ProposedChanges(2010).pdf

http://www.sfweekly.com/2010-09-29/news/prosecutors-frown-on-guy-who-makes-dentures-for-ex-cons

2010 Wyoming Silver Haired Legislature Passes Denturist Bill

2010-10-01T12:21:00.000-06:00

SHL Director Marge Myers,

I understand the denturist bill passed on the floor. It was an honor to be part of the Silver Haired Legislature Health Committee process. The Committee was articulate in discussion of the denturist bill and the issues surrounding the needs of the Wyoming people. This pushes the issue of affordable dental care for those Wyoming people doing without denture care closer to a mandated state legislative solution. The solution will give the Wyoming people the service and choice that our neighboring states of Montana and Idaho are privileged with by regulating the denturist profession. As you know, a good number of Wyoming's aged population living on a fixed income, do not qualify for Medicaid or Wyoming's Public Health's dental program. In most cases it's due to their resources that are not even adequate to meet daily maintenance needs.

Do you have any general information regarding the history and makeup of the SHL so I can learn more about the organization? I have gone to the Casper Senior Center website that includes some brief information about the SHL. I'm puzzled by the fact that many Wyoming people not associated with senior centers are not aware of the SHL services. Many of the issues that the Silver Haired Legislators cover are issues that affect not just Wyoming's aged citizens but most of the Wyoming people. I know funding for the Silver Haired Legislature is limited but it would be nice if SHL had its own website representing the leadership dimensions associated with the SHL volunteers and the services provided by their legislative body.

Silver Haired Legislators give the Wyoming people "one more voice" of representation through out the 23 counties of Wyoming and as you know in this day and age we need their services more than ever. I'm thankful to the Wyoming State Legislators for allocating funding for the Wyoming Silver Haired Legislature; giving the Wyoming people a voice in expressing and prioritizing issues to be presented to the general session of the Wyoming State Legislature.

My list of SHL Representatives is from the 2008 SHL Session. As an advocate for affordable dental care and the denturist profession, I have a need to send thank you cards to the SHL Representatives for their services. Please send me an updated list of SHL Representatives. Thank you.

Gary W. Vollan L.D.
P.O. Box 332
Basin, Wyoming 82410
www.wysda.org

American Dental Association’s Greed Creates Need for Borrowed Dentures

2010-02-27T08:59:00.001-07:00

The fact that it is a denture doesn’t lessen the severity of being without a functional prosthesis. The idea that a woman had to wear her “dead sister’s teeth”, was the story told by New York Rep. Louise Slaughter at President Obama’s health care summit (please see following youtube link) and is just one story of many that involves the critical state of our health and dental care system in our nation. People shouldn’t have to do without a functional prosthesis, whether it being an arm, leg, or denture.

We've been dealing with healthcare being controlled by the American Medical Association, American Dental Association, Big Pharma Corporations and the Insurance companies leaving us with little or no money to meet our day to day expenses. I know lots of people that went to their grave sick and broke, paying for healthcare expenses. Just visit one of your neighborhood convalescent centers and take a look at our people and where our current healthcare system is getting us. Look at the healthcare, dental care and financial situation that the residents and their families are in. Some don’t have dentures or a sister to borrow from. It’s no joke and a serious situation. Health and dental care is unaffordable for most American families leaving people with no choice but to do without.

If corporate ADA would quit squeezing out competition it would free up more chairtime for children, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dental procedures but instead, corporate ADA’s self-serving political agenda is hurting consumers by suppressing qualified competitors that provide oral health care services, especially those with disparities. The American Dental Association works against its own vision and mission statement by suppressing competition that has been trained and educated in providing oral health care services to those that are unable to pay the high prices charged by dentist leaving Americans without needed dental care. Midlevel oral healthcare providers include denturists, dental health aide therapists, and independent practice for dental hygienists.

The American Dental Association uses money to fight Dental Hygienists from having independent practices, the ADA fights and prevents Denturists from having independent practices and funnels money to state dental associations to prosecute Denturists so they can’t provide affordable denture care to people. The ADA, waste money fighting Alaska, to prevent Dental Health Aide Therapists from providing dental services to Natives of Alaska living in remote areas.

Healthcare reform can not be about greed. A good number of Americans can’t afford to pay for dental work. Most aren’t on Medicaid and they have no dental insurance. The American Dental Association needs to reduce your prices, guarantee your work, and be more competitive.

Gary W. Vollan L.D.
State Coordinator, Wyoming State Denturist Association
www.wysda.org

References:
Denturists: Alternative healthcare providers for oral health screenings and referrals
http://www.nydailynews.com/blogs/dc/2010/02/conservatives-mock-slaughters.html#ixzz0giMEIUlr
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zkJByadebXY&feature=player_ embedded#

Wyoming SF0038 Dies; Regulating Denturists for Wyoming People: What will be wrong?

2010-02-16T07:54:00.000-07:00

More adherences to the Surgeon General’s Oral Health Care Plan

More oral health checks

More abnormalities referred out to specialists

More denture care will take place due to accessibility and affordability

More will eat and live healthier due to having dentures that are functional

More job readiness for those in recovery programs due to dentures and esthetic reasons

More job creations due to hiring denturists and denturist’s offices hiring

More state revenue due to denturists licensing

More dentist chairtime being freed for children, restorative, cosmetic and emergency procedures

More denture care providers to service those at nursing homes and other institutions

More denturists trained and educated at one of Wyoming’s junior colleges

What will be wrong? Nothing more than a little turf issue with the American Dental Association and a few dentists.

www.wysda.org

American Dental Association's Anti Denturist Policy – Denturist Data Not Available Through Federal Agencies – Transparency?

2010-02-15T19:52:00.000-07:00

Denturist data is not available through federal agencies even though the Denturist Profession has been regulated in six states some for over 30 years. The American Dental Association Policy Handbook clearly outlines the act to suppress the denturist profession and intimidate dental suppliers of dental material to denturists. The American Dental Association and American Medical Association spend big dollars suppressing competition by lobbying against legislation to regulate Alternative Healthcare Professions. A good example of this is the recent federal legislation the American Dental Association lobbied against regarding the Dental Health Aide Therapists Program being expanded outside of Alaska that ADA fought Alaska to suppress.

There are several other programs that would be beneficial to the American people allowing them accessible and affordable healthcare. Due to the fact that these programs or professions are not supported by the American Dental Association and American Medical Association they are not registered with federal and state government agencies. No data is available for these professions. For example, I'm an educated licensed denturist that has fought long and hard for recognition and the right to provide the services associated with the denturist profession to provide affordable, oral prostheses care or denture care directly to the public.

The data for the denturist profession is not listed on federal registries as an occupation or profession even though I and a number of my colleagues over the years have requested acknowledgement of the denturist profession to be included for statistical and informational purposes. The denturist profession was not included in the new addition of the Department of Labor’s Occupational Handbook again, even though it's been regulated in six U.S. states providing jobs and services for over 30years in Oregon and Idaho.

I have contacted the Department of Labor over the past three years along with other federal agencies DOC, HHS, DOJ, CDC, FTC, IHS, BLS and AHRQ to have matters of discussion regarding the denturist profession for listing or registration. Montana, Arizona, Maine and Washington State regulate and license denturists. When talking to the different federal agencies I have cited the American Freedom of Information Act in hopes of gaining the information and recognition for the denturist profession but not much has happened.

As a student at the University of Wyoming, doing a paper, I have requested information from several federal agencies and the American Dental Association regarding information about my profession as a denturist. I'm told there is no information available through the federal agencies and the ADA tells me they can't provide the information to me because I'm not a dentist member.

The American people should have statistic and informational data regarding the success and benefits of the denturist profession as alternative oral healthcare providers, in order to consider national licensure of the denturist profession across the nation as it is in Canada, the United Kingdom and other countries. Thank you for your consideration.

Gary W. Vollan L.D.
vollan@tctwest.net
P.O. Box 332
Basin, Wyoming 82410
www.wysda.org

American Dental Association Being Held Accountable for Greed

2009-12-17T20:19:00.003-07:00

Republican Senator Charles Grassley’s (R-IA) call for a financial discloser from the American Dental Association (ADA) along with other medical groups is just a start of holding corporate ADA accountable for the money it wastes and spends as a nonprofit suppressing and pushing out competition. The American Dental Association lobbies federal and state legislators to disregard legislation that would regulate the denturist profession in many states that include Kentucky and Wyoming. The ADA spends money to persecute denturists.

The ADA lobbied for exclusion of language to expand the dental health aide therapists programs to states other than Alaska in the recent U.S. Senate Bill 1790. The American Dental Association, wasted money fighting Alaska and lost; trying to prevent dental health aide therapists from providing dental services to Natives of Alaska living in remote areas. The American Dental Association lobbies to suppress dental hygienists from having independent boards and practices.

The American Dental Associations total lobbying expenditures as of October 2009 was $2,110,000.00 reported by opensecrets.org. The ADA’s self-serving political agenda is hurting consumers by suppressing qualified competitors that provide oral health services to those with disparities. The American Dental Association works against its vision and mission statement by suppressing competition that has been trained and educated in providing oral health care services to those that are unable to pay the high prices charged by dentist leaving Americans without needed dental care.

Many people do without needed dental care because of high prices charged by dentist and not being eligible for Medicaid, low income programs and not having dental healthcare insurance. Corporate ADA has the power and money to change the current dental care delivery system for the better if the American public would speak out against the American Dental Associations deceiving and pacifying public relations campaign for a better public image.

Gary W. Vollan L.D.
State Coordinator, Wyoming State Denturist Association
www.wysda.org

References:
137th APHA Annual Meeting (November 7-11, 2009): Denturists: Alternative healthcare providers for oral health screenings and referrals

http://grassley.senate.gov/news/Article.cfm?customel_dataPageID_1502=24413

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/12/08/health/policy/08grassley.html?scp=2&sq=grassley&st=cse

http://www.opensecrets.org/pacs/pacgot.php?cmte=C00000729&cycle=2008

American Dental Association Continues to Suppress Competition

2009-08-06T10:43:00.001-06:00

No doubt, we need a national healthcare emphasis on the connection of good oral health and its relationship to a healthy body, mind and spirit. It will take a team effort and this includes all professions involved with oral healthcare. The American Dental Association, due to its greed, wastes so much time and money pushing other professions away from the table and preventing our professions from serving those we have been trained and educated to serve.

The American Dental Association uses money to fight Dental Hygienists from having independent practices, the American Dental Association fights and prevents Denturists from having independent practices and in most cases funnels money to state dental associations to prosecute Denturists so they can’t provide affordable denture care to people with disparities. The American Dental Associations waste money fighting Alaska to prevent Dental Health Aide Therapists from providing dental services to the Natives of Alaska living in remote areas.

Is the American Dental Association really concerned about the American people’s dental needs? Yes, I think they are, as long as they can charge what they do and as long as they can keep people waiting for a month or two while the American Dental Association keeps the competition suppressed. I’m licensed and educated to provide affordable denture care as a Denturist. The American Dental Association’s money closed me down and keeps the Wyoming Legislature from regulating my profession. They used to call that a monopoly but the Federal Trade Commission turns their head as long as the American Dental Association claims I’m practicing dentistry without a license.

The money that the American Dental Association is spending on a campaign to polish up its public image; wouldn’t all this wasted time and money I’ve mentioned be better spent providing educational programs to the professions the ADA spends so much time and money fighting? Healthcare reform can not be about greed. Greed is what got us into this mess in the first place. It could be a team effort and I’m here to serve.

Gary W. Vollan L.D.
State Coordinator, Wyoming State Denturist Association
www.wysda.org

Oh, The American Dental Association Is Getting Its Behind Chewed?

2009-07-29T19:41:00.009-06:00

(*Please see associated story link below)

It sounds like things are catching up with ADA's bad business policies. It’s nice to see others coming out against the American Dental Association’s unethical business tactics. Accountability is long overdue.

The ADA has put in place a PR campaign to boost it public image while at the same time the ADA's leadership continues to express liberal waste and corporate greed over provisions of affordable dental services to those people most in need. ADA's policies discriminate against the economically disadvantaged Americans by their corporate power of stopping and discouraging competition.

What right does the ADA have to muscle out competition? Does the American Dental Association get Federal money and grants? Is the American Dental Association really concerned about the American people’s dental needs? Why does the ADA waste so much time and money persecuting denturist to keep them from providing affordable denture care services to people in need? What about the money ADA wasted fighting dental health aide therapist in Alaska? What about the money the American Dental Association wastes each year fighting independent practices keeping dental hygienists from better serving the children and adults with preventive dentistry being more accessible and affordable?

Denturists, across America are trying to provide affordable denture care service to the people that are economically disadvantaged but instead we are forced to use our resources to defend our education and our right to serve. Here in the U.S., the American Dental Association does everything it can to suppress the denturist profession across the nation, with ADA's monopolistic grip on dentures and their inflated pricing, leaving the edentulous, denture-less.

Denturists, dental health aide therapists and independent practices of dental hygienists are harassed and discriminated against by the American Dental Association. The answer to healthcare economics, shortages, and quality care is MORE COMPETITION. We need independent practices and more college programs for dental hygienists, denturists and dental health aide therapists. The American Dental Association could better spend its money on establishing accredited colleges and programs for the above listed professions so more segments of our society can receive affordable needed dental services.

Gary W. Vollan, L.D., Coordinator for the Wyoming State Denturist Association www.wysda.org

* http://healthcarefinancials.wordpress.com/2009/07/28/journal-of-the-american-dental-association-letter-to-the-editor/

http://www.wyomingstatedenturistassociation.org/documents/Denturist%20and%20Oral%20Healthcare-final.pdf

Denturists Persecuted by the American Dental Association

2009-07-24T09:31:00.008-06:00

Despite being persecuted by the American Dental Association, denturists continue to push for the right to provide oral health screenings and referral services for those in need of denture care. The denturist is qualified to provide oral health screenings and referrals. With the nation wide shortage of dentist and the high cost of denture care by dentists; denture care by denturists has proven to be a safe alternative denture delivery system in six states in the U.S. and across Canada. Denturists are required to obtain education and training in oral health at an accredited college.

Denturists serve all segments of the public, especially people in nursing homes and those with disparities, providing accessible and affordable quality denture care. This is an opportunity for oral health wellness to be recognized by a qualified, educated denturist and referral services provided in the event that abnormalities are found. The denturist plays a crucial part in alleviating the aftermath of the shortage of dentists by freeing up valuable chair time for restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dental care for children and adults across our nation.

The American Association for Dental Research (AADR) statement on oral health care includes policy recommendations. Excerpts from AADR policy statement released July 14, 2009, titled “Oral Health Care within Healthcare Reform,” [1] includes the following.

. “Recent dental research findings are uncovering the full extent to which oral health is linked
to general health.” [1]
· “However, advances in care and treatment models have not been shared equally by all
Americans, and the physical and economic burden of oral disease continues to outweigh that
of other more commonly covered diseases and conditions.” [1]

“In 2000, the U.S. Surgeon General called the nation’s attention to the importance of oral health with the landmark report “Oral Health in America.” The report recognized the associations between oral health and general health and called upon policy makers to “build an effective health infrastructure that meets the oral health needs of all Americans and integrates oral health effectively into overall health”. Nearly a decade later, it’s time to respond to the Surgeon General.” [1] & [2]

The American Dental Association needs to respond to AADR’s report and the Surgeon General’s report to “build an effective health infrastructure that meets the oral health needs of all Americans and integrates oral health effectively into overall health”.[2] Trained and educated in oral health and referral services; denturists need the freedom to serve the people of this Nation who are in need of denture care, without being suppressed by the American Dental Association’s purse strings to lobbyist and ADA’s heavy handedness of persecution against denturists.

Gary W. Vollan, L.D., Coordinator for the Wyoming State Denturist Association http://www.wysda.org/

[1] The American Association for Dental Research (AADR), Statement on Oral Health Care within Health Care
Reform. Retrieved July 15, 2009, from http://www.iadr.org/files/public/09June_AADRPolicyStatement.pdf

[2] A Report of the Surgeon General (2000). “Oral Health in America”.
http://www.surgeongeneral.gov/topics/oralhealth/nationalcalltoaction.html

American Dental Association Greed ADAG

2009-06-29T17:12:00.003-06:00

June 29, 2009

Mary Otto, of The Washington Post did a nice job writing the article, “Putting Teeth in Health-Care Reform” (link below). She quoted a number of dental professionals including American Dental Association’s executive director Kathleen T. O’Loughlin, quoting the dental healthcare needs of the American people. No doubt, we need a national healthcare emphasis on the connection of good oral health and its relationship to a healthy body, mind and spirit and it will take a team effort and this includes all professions involved with oral healthcare.

The American Dental Association, due to its greed, wastes so much time and money pushing other professions away from the table and preventing our professions from serving those that we have been trained and educated to serve. The American Dental Association uses money to fight Dental Hygienist from having independent practices, the American Dental Association fights and prevents Denturist from having independent practices and in most cases funnels money to state dental associations to prosecute Denturist so they can’t provide affordable denture care to people with disparities. The American Dental Associations waste money fighting Alaska to prevent Dental Health Aid Therapists from providing dental services to the Natives of Alaska living in remote areas.

Is the American Dental Association really concerned about the American people’s dental needs? Yes, I think they are, as long as they can charge what they do and as long as they can keep people waiting for a month or two while the American Dental Association keeps the competition suppressed. I’m licensed and educated to provide affordable denture care as a denturist. The American Dental Association’s money closed me down and keeps the Wyoming Legislature from regulating my profession. They used to call it a monopoly but the Federal Trade Commission turns their head as long as the American Dental Association claims I’m practicing dentistry without a license.

The money that the American Dental Association is spending on a campaign to polish up its public image; wouldn’t all this wasted time and money I’ve mentioned be better spent providing educational programs to the above mentioned professions the American Dental Association spends so much time and money fighting? Healthcare reform can not be about greed. Greed is what got us into this mess in the first place. I’m in agreement with ADA’s, President O’Loughlins statement on “bolstering the public health system for those with disparities.”
It could be a team effort so please let me serve. Thank you.

Gary W. Vollan L.D. 307-568-2047
State Coordinator, Wyoming State Denturist Association, www.wysda.org

Ref: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/06/22/AR2009062201658.html

2009-06-23T14:47:00.007-06:00

June 23, 2009

Re: Affordable Healthcare Choices

Dear U.S. Senate Health Care Committee and U. S. House Committee on Ways and Means,

I request your support in regulating the denturist profession across our nation. In the five states that regulate the denturist profession, we continue to prove our effectiveness in providing quality denture service that is safe and affordable especially for people that are ineligible for Medicaid dentures or other programs showing a needs level and for those without dental coverage in their healthcare insurance. Please consider the service; a nationally regulated denturist profession is capable of providing with the present shortfall of accessible denture service by dentist, along with the shortage of dentist across our nation especially in rural America.

Please join me at the American Public Health Association 137th Annual Meeting and Exposition where I will be presenting my presentation titled, Denturists: Alternative Healthcare Providers for Oral Health Screenings and Referral, scheduled for session 2075.0, addressing Oral Health Workforce Issues on Sunday, November 8, 2009, at 4:30 PM.

The APHA Annual Meeting is the premier public health event taking place November 7-11 in Philadelphia, PA. With more than 1,000 cutting edge scientific sessions, 700 booths of information and state-of-the-art public health products and services, this is an extremely important meeting in the public health field.

You can view my session and get more information about my presentation, detailed abstract and learning objectives by clicking on the link below. http://apha.confex.com/apha/137am/webprogram/Session27637.html

For general information about the APHA Annual Meeting or to find out about other presentations visit the meetings home page at www.apha.org/meetings. Registration and Housing are now open. To take advantage of the early-bird discount, visit the registration page at www.apha.org/meetings/registration

I hope you can attend my presentation as I join APHA in exploring the latest public health practices and challenges.

Sincerely,
Gary W. Vollan L.D.
State Coordinator, Wyoming State Denturist Association
www.wysda.org

Denturists and American People in Need vs. American Dental Association Policies

2008-01-04T09:34:00.000-07:00

Denturists and American People in Need vs. American Dental Association Policies

The balance of the working relationship between the dentist and denture technician has always tipped more favorably on the side of the dentist than the denture technician.

A number of denture technicians moved forward in the profession by becoming denturist because of the expectations of being the dentist's counter-part but rarely with the denture technician receiving the deserved gratitude of those expectations.

Instead we worked long hours (not by choice), didn't get paid for those long hours which usually involved remakes due to error of the dentist or assistant doing procedures.

Our jobs as denture technicians were usually held over our heads for us to jump, reach, and grab at, while the dentist decided which dental lab they would use if and when we complained or insisted that things be done differently and maybe even getting paid for the 60 or 90 day past due lab invoice.

As a denturist I enjoy my work. I enjoy the working relationship of a chosen dentist or oral surgeon for referral services for my patients.

The good fight is not with any current or past dentist. I’ve worked with some good dentist as a denture lab technician and as a denturist. A good majority of the dentist would rather spend their chairtime in restorative and cosmetic dentistry not dentures.

So what's the problem? Corporate ADA. The American Dental Association’s big money politics, waste and not being able to relate to the dental needs of the people. It’s nothing different than what denture technicians and denturist have always dealt with as the counter-part of the dental profession.

Corporate ADA has no faith in its ability to provide for the dental needs of the American public. Even as denture technicians, we have always known we we're better at being able to meet the denture needs of the American public and the American Dental Association knows it. We are a thorn in ADA’s side and they want us gone.

The American Dental Association has in place, a number of build up and award programs for dental lab technicians for good reason and then it supports outsourcing of dental prostheses. Something’s not right with this picture.

It’s one thing to pay pennies to the dental lab technician for dental prostheses but yet another thing to outsource the work away from the mom and pop dental labs across America.

More and more people are doing without dental care because of ADA's policy making. They spend 10's of thousands of dollars for meetings to establish these policies that are leaving more and more people without dental care.

The policies discriminating against the economically disadvantaged Americans are those that are directed at stopping denturist, dental health aides and independent practices for dental hygienist. The American Dental Association sends money to state dental associations with expectation that the state associations will uphold ADA's policies but in turn it's a negative reflection on the state associations because their using the money for reasons other than meeting the dental needs of the people of the state.

The American Dental Association could better serve the dental needs of the American people by giving the dental hygienists the freedom of their own boards and independent practices so they can better serve the preventive needs of the American people by serving in the area of public health.

Corporate ADA can take the necessary steps to establish boards for independent practice of the denturist profession and the dental health aides across the Nation. This would free up dentist to use their eight or more years of schooling and experience in extensive restorative dentistry and specialty areas of dentistry.

It would direct the need for more money for education for all areas of the dental profession. This would create more qualified doctors and less of the unethically inclined dentists that are in practice today due to dental school programs one size fit all level of the DDS degree.

Dental health aides or therapist would serve the same level that a physician’s assistant serves today. The American Dental Association would organize and regulate dentistry and associated professions across America to better meet the dental care needs of all people.

People need to get on the American Dental Association internet site and do a watch dog of the programs in place and see the money that’s wasted. It’s disgraceful, with the number of Americans doing without dental care. You’d think with all the money, power, and intellect the American Dental Association has it would do things differently.

Please consider this critique of corporate ADA.

Thank you---Gary W. Vollan L.D.
www.wysda.org 307-568-2047

Denturist Not giving Up On Providing Affordable Denture Care

2007-12-26T11:59:00.001-07:00

Dr. Edward Clark, president of the Wyoming Dental Association knows the denturist profession has an accredited school in Washington State teaching a two year denturist program. I talked to Dr. Clark about the school's accreditation during our telephone conversation, regarding the use of retired volunteer dentist to start a low income dental clinic.

read more | digg story

Wyoming State Denturist Association or wysda.org: Best Short Film Ever

2007-12-23T02:28:00.000-07:00

Wyoming State Denturist Association or wysda.org: Best Short Film Ever

Best Short Film Ever

2007-12-23T00:03:00.001-07:00

This is the best short film ever. I don't know if I'd rather watch this or the movie that followed it.

read more | digg story

Denturist for Affordable Denture Care by Gary W. Vollan L.D. www.wysda.org

2007-11-15T22:55:00.001-07:00

Having access to affordable and available denture care is a necessary need for the wellness of ones health. Ill-fitting dentures in need of repair due to breakage and missing denture teeth are all too common place for denture wearers."Of all the forms of inequality, injustice in health care is the most shocking and inhumane. Martin Luther KIng Jr

read more | digg story

Across My Nation The Need for Affordable Dental-care-for Americans

2007-11-15T16:18:00.000-07:00

Affordable dental care is becoming further from reality for those that are on a moderate, limited, or low income. The denturist profession offers an alternative and affordable denture care service that is offered in six states and across Canada as a safe, alternative denture care delivery system that is constantly being attacked and discredited by the ADA, the American Dental Association.

After graduating from an accredited denturist college and taking the Oregon state denturist board and licensed as a denturist; I come to Wyoming in 1992 and practiced as a denturist until I was shut down by the Wyoming Dental Board in 2006 because I was opening a satellite office in the next town of Worland, Wyoming, 30 miles away.

This put a tremendous hardship on me as a single parent of eight children and remains as an unjustified and discrediting ruling by the Wyoming courts (due to the good ole boy mentality and not the language that clearly describes the definition of a dentist in the Wyoming Dental Practice Act). It has failed as a legislative issue in Wyoming and in a number of other states across the nation due to special interest lobbing by the ADA and state dental boards.

This continues to happen across the US due to the ADA's monopolistic grip on denture care keeping dentures and denture care service away from segments of society that are most in need due to economic reasons and poor accessibility. This includes the elderly, military veterans, the disabled and those living in rural areas.

Having access to affordable and available denture care is a necessary need for the wellness of ones health. Ill-fitting dentures and dentures in need of repair due to breakage and missing denture teeth are all too common place for denture wearers.

Gary W.Vollan L.D. Basin, Wyoming, www.wysda.org

Denture Maker Unable To Serve Those In Need Of Affordable Denture Care

2007-10-19T23:44:00.001-06:00

The American Dental Association and state dental associations continue to suppress the denturist profession across the nation, with the dentist's monopolistic grip on dentures and inflated pricing, leaving the edentulous, denture-less, and paying the denture lab technicians pennies, for a oral prosthesis (denture) worthy of artistic recognition.

read more | digg story

Denturist Can Help Save Meth Mouth Tax Dollars

2007-09-17T11:42:00.000-06:00

The Denturist Profession Can Help Save Meth Mouth Tax Dollars
September 13, 2007 Gary W. Vollan, L.D. www.wysda.org

Is it going to take the meth epidemic for our country to recognize the need for the denturist profession as a viable health care profession and it's ability to provide affordable denture care to recovering meth addicts and other segments of our society.

The denturist profession as a rule is a compassionate group of professionals that provide affordable denture care.

How much more difficult is an addicts recovery (self-esteem), without an oral prosthesis (denture) for replacement of extracted natural teeth due to meth chemicals and disease?

The American Dental Association and state dental associations continue to suppress the denturist profession across the nation, with the dentists monopolistic grip on dentures and their inflated pricing, leaving the edentulous, dentureless, and paying the denture lab technicians pennies, for a oral prosthesis (denture) that's worthy of artistic recognition.

Most denturist were denture lab technicians tired of not being paid by the dentist and having to do remakes at the denture technicians expense, due to error in impressions and the bite by the dentist or their assistant.

Denturist are educated, tested, qualified and licensed professionals; providing denture care directly to the public at affordable prices; usually averaging half of what dentists charge.

Denturist are regulated and licensed in seven states and across Canada. The states are Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Colorado, Arizona and Maine.

Please talk to your legislator and let them know you need access to affordable denture care through the denturist profession.
Having affordable and functional dentures affects a persons physical and psychological well-being.
It could be the determining factor in a persons productivity, especially those recovering from an addiction.

Thank you for being here---gary

Wyoming Denturist Unable to Serve Those In Need Of Affordable Denture Care

2007-09-05T20:17:00.000-06:00

It was a great disappointment for me that the Wyoming State Supreme Court Justices ruled to uphold the dental board’s injunction. With all due respect to the Justices, I really thought they would see the denturist profession independent of Wyoming dental board's jurisdiction. I truly was counting on being able to provide affordable denture care in my community and surrounding area as I have since 1992.

I had a two page list of people in Basin and Worland waiting for a favorable decision so I could do their dentures that included repairs, relines and new dentures. I recommended that they go to a dentist for their work but most said that they would wait. With this behind us, the focus is on the circulators for the "Wyoming Denturism Act" initiative.

The circulators and voter signatures will put the statewide affordable denture care initiative on the November 2008 general election ballot for the Wyoming voters to decide its fate as part of the many health care issues the Wyoming people are faced with.

We have circulators in all 23 counties of Wyoming. Bighorn County is the only county at this time that we have the required 15% of the registered Wyoming voter signatures that have signed petitions for the initiative. This was due to the large turnout of circulators supporting the initiative and the need for qualified, educated denturist in Wyoming.

Signatures over Bighorn County's 15%, goes toward the overall state's required 15% of the registered Wyoming voters in the last general election. That number is 30,000 and our goal is 35,000 due to any discrepancies in voter signatures. We also have to carry 15% of 16 counties. The initiative requirements is a challenge Wyoming circulators and voters will meet to license and regulate the denturist profession just as they did in Montana, Idaho and five other states in order to have access to affordable and quality denture care.

I'd like to thank everyone for their prayers and support. This extends to my children for their help and support. Basin is a good community and Wyoming is a good place to live and raise a family. After the State Supreme Courts decision, people have suggested that I go to a state that regulates the denturist profession but my future as a denturist and caregiver is here in Wyoming. I will find temporary work here in Wyoming until I’m able to work as a licensed Wyoming denturist.

As a circulator for the “Wyoming Denturism Act” initiative, I will continue to work toward that goal along side the Wyoming people.

In your service,

Gary W. Vollan
P.O.Box 332, Basin, Wyoming 82410
307-568-2047 vollan@tctwest.net
www.wysda.org

Wyoming the Right-to-Work State?

2007-07-13T20:58:00.000-06:00

Wyoming is the Right-to-Work State. When I was working for Meadow Gold in Cheyenne back in 86 and 87 I remember I had the choice of joining the Teamsters Union because Wyoming was the Right-to-work State. Does anyone have any idea what it means and where it's definition is located.

There is another Union called, the Wyoming Dental Board, that is regulated under Wyoming statute, 33-15-101 thru 33-15-131. It clearly states the definition of "dentistry" (33-15-128) as the healing arts practiced by dentist. Under the rules and regulations it clearly states in Chapter 1, section 2, the definition of the dental boards jurisdiction. None of the definitions uses the word denturist or prosthetist and denturist do not practice the healing arts.

After reading the Wyoming Dental Practice Act and knowing that a licensed denturist would not be under the dental boards jurisdiction, I decided to come back to Wyoming after graduating from the Oregon Denturist College in 1992. I passed the Oregon State Denturist Board and was licensed as a denturist by Oregon. I have continued to meet the requirements of that license each year with the required continuing education.

I come back to Wyoming in 1992 after graduation and started to practice as a denturist. Wyoming had no form of licensing or regulations for a prosthetist or denturist. Both provide a removable prosthesis directly to the patient.

I continued to work thru the years as a denturist in Basin, Wyoming, and decided to open an auxillary office in Worland in 8/05, due to the number of Worland people coming to Basin for denture service. When the dentist found out they filed an injuction against me in 9/05 and it was enforced by district court 10/06.

In 1/07 my attorney Keith Goody, of Alpine, Wyoming, appealed the injunction to the Wyoming State Supreme Court. We are waiting to hear the ruling. I'm a single, hard working dad and this has put such a hardship on my family.

My kids and I have worked together to write legislators and have writen an initiative and we are currently gaining the necessary signatures so we can put the issue on the Nov. 2008 general election ballot. It is called the Wyoming Denturism Act and it not only provides licensing and regulation for the denturist profession but also provides freedom of choice for the denture or partial wearer. It removes the denture monopoly by the dentist. It invites competition and drives down prices.

The road to getting back to work in what I'm educated and experienced in as a denturist, is long and enduring. It is difficult, with time and expenses hurting us as a family. We are a special family of adopted children, seven still at home. I'm a Vietnam Vet and was a dental technician in the Navy. I have always worked hard to serve people. Wyoming is the Right to Work State and I could find no legal grounds of being under the Wyoming Dental Boards jurisdiction.

This is unjust and I really need to get back to work people. I need my job back. I have a list of people that are waiting for the affordable denture care service I provide. Will you please help? I am fighting this thing to the end. I Am Not Leaving Wyoming. I already turned down a denturist position in Montana working with a top notch denturist in a new clinic. Thank you for your consideration.

In His service---
Gary W.Vollan
vollan@tctwest.net
P.O.Box 332
Basin, Wyoming 82410
307-568-2047
www.wysda.org

The Need For Denturist Services In Wyoming and Across The U.S.

2007-05-10T00:05:00.000-06:00

Dear Administrator,

Dealing with the shortage and availability of dentists and denture services in Wyoming makes it difficult for those working families on low or limited income to afford dental services due to limited competition, especially in rural areas of the state.

Regulating denturism as a licensed profession in Wyoming via the “Wyoming Denturist Act” initiative will compensate for the shortage of dentists by freeing up chair time for emergency, preventive, restorative, and cosmetic procedures.

Denturists are denture specialists who are trained and educated in sciences, clinical skills, and interpersonal skills that provide affordable denture care. They have the skills and knowledge necessary to provide a removable oral prosthesis service directly to the community that cost up to 50% less than what the dentist charges for the same denture service.

Through the current denture delivery system, seniors and others with disabilities often face economic and unavailability barriers to obtain dentures or denture related services. According to a January 02 article in the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry, “Will there be a need for complete dentures in the United States in 2020?” The adult population in need of 1 or 2 complete dentures will increase from 33.6 million to 37.9 million adults in 2020.

The “Wyoming Denturist Act” initiative, Coalition for Freedom of Choice in Denture Care is in need of your agency’s endorsement and support to gain the required thirty-five thousand registered Wyoming voter signatures, for the November 08 general election ballot, where it can be considered by the voters.

The Wyoming Sate Denturist Association website can be seen at http://www.wysda.org/. Thank you for your support and consideration in giving Wyoming’s people the same options that our neighbors, Idaho and Montana have received for decades in Freedom of Choice for their denture care.

In His Service,
Gary W. Vollan-state coordinator
PO Box 332
Basin, Wyoming 82410
307-568-2047
vollan@tctwest.net

Denturist; Serving Those In Need

2007-04-15T00:30:00.000-06:00

Denturist; Serving Those In Need, is a response to Dr. Hill's editorial in Wyoming's, Casper Star Tribune newspaper. Dr Hill is the president of the Wyoming Dental Association. With all due respect to Dr. Hill, his education, and profession.

With exception to few in any profession, most of us lose site of our promises, good intentions, and purpose to serve those that we were gifted to serve.

As we embark on this endeaver of circulating the "Wyoming Denturism Act" initiative for Wyoming's qualified voter signatures to place it on the November 2008 general election ballot, I pray that the denturist profession will always serve Wyoming's people with that gift.

In response to Dr. Hill’s April 8th letter to the editor, “Oral health helps doctors diagnose”. Dr. Hill, in his attempt to discredit the denturist profession, on the basis that denturist don’t have the extensive education that dentist have to properly diagnose, and treat underlying pathology that exists in the oral cavity is misleading and he knows that.
Licensed denturists don’t diagnose or treat abnormalities of the tissue or dentition. Denturist are educated in recognizing healthy tissue, making referrals, taking impressions, fabricating an oral prosthesis, and making adjustments on that prosthesis.
When the people of other states, for example, Montana and Idaho were trying to regulate the denturist profession, for Freedom of Choice in Denture Care service through legislation and/or the initiative process, it was common for the national and state dental associations to use scare tactics regarding oral health, education and employment issues, to mislead voters into thinking the service wasn’t a good thing. It continues to be good.
Denturists provide affordable denture care. More people in Wyoming will take advantage of the lower costs of denture service to seek more care. More mouths will be examined with that care and if there are signs of pathology then the more opportunities for the denture (edentulous) patient to be referred to their dentist, oral surgeon or medical doctor for detection and treatment of that abnormality. What good is your knowledge and education Dr. Hill if you’re unable to serve those in need of it?
Denturist referral services are outlined in the “Wyoming Denturism Act” initiative being circulated state wide for the necessary 35,000 Wyoming voter signatures needed to place it on the November 2008, general election ballot for Wyoming voters to decide.
The required denturist education is outlined in the “Wyoming Denturism Act” initiative. Bates Technical College is accredited by Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. This accrediting agency is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation, (CHEA) and CHEA is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (USDE). Dr. Ken Kais, DDS, is dedicated to his profession of teaching and the educational uplift of the denturist profession.
Your closing statement Dr. Hill, regarding money donated for dental services in Wyoming; was unclear to me. You mentioned $138,000 and then something about the Senior Dental Program. It was my understanding that the money for the Public Health’s Senior Dental Program comes out of the Wyoming general fund, so please educate me Dr. Hill regarding the funding. Maybe, there are other programs available to those on fixed and limited incomes that are unable to afford the high cost of dental services here in Wyoming that I’m not aware of. What good are programs Dr. Hill with little or no funding?
Dr. Hill, due to the high cost of dental care, a good number of people are doing without needed dental services that could benefit from a program that has available resources. I have a friend who I’ll call Richard. He has a number of abscesses and is not eligible for any program because he makes money and has a family and can’t afford the cost of endo and a crown for one tooth, approximately $1200, let alone three other teeth needing endo and crowns that he’d like to save. Is there a program for him Dr. Hill?
My friend Kathy, who has two sets of dentures from a dentist that she can’t wear and she won’t go back to the dentist, because the dentist continued to charge her for visits for adjustments, for dentures that never fit. She’s on a fixed income. Is there a program for her Dr. Hill? What good are your services Dr. if a person can’t afford them?
Last October, the Wyoming Dental Board shut me down with an injunction. I’m not able to serve her. As a Wyoming denturist since 1992, the services I provide are needed.
In His service,
Gary W. Vollan
P.O.Box 332, Basin, Wyoming 82410
vollan@tctwest.net or http://www.wysda.org/
307.568.2047

The "Wyoming Denturism Act", Freedom of Choice in Denture Care, and Denture Patient Bill of Rights

2007-03-26T21:43:00.000-06:00

Newspaper writer for Casper Star-Tribune, Joan Barron’s February 25th 2007 article: Teeth as a Job Issue gave us information regarding the work Senator Cale Case has done to serve the people of Wyoming.
March 24, 2007

Hurrah to Senator Case, for addressing the dental needs of the Wyoming people. Dental care is becoming inaccessible and unaffordable to those that are on fixed or low incomes. The low income clinic in Casper needs funding, and the Department of Health Denture Program for senior citizens, has a year long waiting list. This is also due to a lack of funding.

There is a shortage of dentists in Wyoming. However, regulating denturism as a licensed profession in Wyoming, via the “Wyoming Denturism Act” initiative will compensate for the shortage of dentists by freeing up chairtime that could be used for the children and drastically reducing the Health Department waiting lists by giving senior citizens and those living on limited incomes direct access to affordable denture care. This allows low income dental clinics to focus on emergency dental needs, rather than denture needs which would be seen by area denturists.

The “Wyoming Denturism Act” initiative requires the signatures of thirty-five thousand registered Wyoming voters to make it on the November 08 general election ballot where it can be considered by the Wyoming voters for Freedom of Choice in denture care.

Denturists are denture specialists who are trained and educated in sciences, clinical skills, and interpersonal skills that provide affordable denture care. They have the skills and knowledge necessary to provide a removable oral prosthesis service directly to the community that cost up to 50% less than what the dentist charges for the same denture service.

The ADA, American Dental Association and state dental associations, continue to pump money and time toward discrediting denturist and the denturist profession with scare tactics used in other states that now regulate denturist. The “Wyoming Denturism Act”, is the people’s initiative for Freedom of Choice in denture care, giving the Wyoming people the same options that our neighbors, Montana and Idaho have received for decades. Like Idaho and Montana and five other states where denturism is regulated, dentists and denturists learned to cooperate in a concerted effort to provide patients with better service through mutual referral services to one another.

Through the current denture delivery system, seniors and others with disabilities often face economic and unavailability barriers to obtain dentures or denture related services. According to a January 2002 article in the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry, “Will there be a need for complete dentures in the United States in 2020?” The adult population in need of 1 or 2 complete dentures will increase from 33.6 million to 37.9 million adults in 2020.

Even though the percentage of the adult population who are edentulous, meaning they have lost all of their permanent teeth, is declining by 10% every decade. This decrease is offset by the significant increase of senior citizens, in whom edentulism occurs the most often, that is, in low income senior citizens. In a 1999 study conducted by the National Oral Health Surveillance System, (NOHSS), it was estimated that nearly 25% of the American adults over 65 are completely edentulous, due to cavities and gum disease. In order to lead a fuller, happier life, these people will need a denture service of some kind. However, many patients who have received denture services have either one or several dentures that are ill-functioning.

To help prevent this, a patient bill of rights should include rights for the denture patient as well, offering a 30 day money back guarantee if the denture patient isn’t satisfied with the denture service provided by the dentist or denturist. This should help with the multiple denture sets that people haven’t been able to wear due to ill-functioning dentures, and inaccessibility to services, due to time or charges, to acquire denture adjustments that are necessary for the prosthesis to function correctly.

This patient bill of rights for the denture patient will include, but will in no means be limited to, a toll-free number to assure complaints are heard and addressed by the dental and denturist boards. This will help improve dental and denturist standards for those who cannot deal with the laborious complaint process that is currently in place. This includes senior citizens, those with disabilities, and limited income.

Dental and denturist offices will be required to have complaint forms in sight, along with contact address, and telephone numbers. This process will help save taxpayer dollars for Wyoming State and health care dollars for patients and will be worthy of future initiative and/or legislative efforts.

The “Wyoming Denturism Act” initiative can be seen at the Wyoming State Denturist Association website at http://www.wysda.org/ Thank you for your support and consideration in giving Wyoming's people the same options that our neighbors Idaho and Montana have received for decades in Freedom of Choice for their denture care. For further information, please call the Wyoming Coalition for Freedom of Choice in Denture Care toll free number at 1-888-Dentur1 or 1-888-336-8871.

In His service,

Gary W. Vollan
P.O. Box 332
Basin, Wyoming 82410
vollan@tctwest.net
307-568-2047

The "Wyoming Denturism Act" Initiative

2007-03-10T23:01:00.000-07:00

Dear Fellow Community Member;

Dealing with the shortage and availability of dentists and denture services in Wyoming makes it difficult for those working families on low or limited income to afford dental services due to limited competition, especially in rural areas of the state.

Regulating denturism as a licensed profession in Wyoming via the “Wyoming Denturist Act” initiative will compensate for the shortage of dentists by freeing up chair time for emergency, preventive, restorative, and cosmetic procedures. This will help improve rural health care. We are in the process of getting the needed 35,000 voter signatures, to put the initiative on the 2008, Wyoming general election ballot.

Through the current denture delivery system, seniors and others with disabilities often face economic and unavailability barriers to obtain dentures or denture related services. According to a January 02 article in the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry, “Will there be a need for complete dentures in the United States in 2020?” The adult population in need of 1 or 2 complete dentures will increase from 33.6 million to 37.9 million adults in 2020.Even though the percentage of the adult population who are edentulous, meaning they have lost all of their permanent teeth, is declining by 10% every decade. This decrease is offset by the significant increase of senior citizens, in whom edentulism occurs most often, that is, in low income senior citizens. In a 1999 study conducted by the National Oral Health Surveillance System, (NOHSS), it was estimated that nearly 25% of the American adults over 65 are completely edentulous, due to cavities and gum disease.

Denturists are denture specialists who are trained and educated in sciences, clinical skills, and interpersonal skills that provide affordable denture care. They have the skills and knowledge necessary to provide a removable oral prosthesis service directly to the community that cost up to 50% less than what most dentists charge for the same denture service, giving Wyoming’s citizens the same options that our neighbors, Idaho and Montana have received for decades in Freedom of Choice for their denture care.

We look forward to your consideration as a volunteer sponsor/organizer for signature gathers in your county. Thank you.

Please contact:
Gary W. Vollan-licensed denturistPO Box 332, Basin, Wyoming 82410
307-568-2047 or vollan@tctwest.net

Please see a copy of the "Wyoming Denturism Act" initiative at
Wyoming State Denturist Association www.wysda.org

Thank you and may the Lord bless and keep you---gary

Wyoming Denturist HB163 Dies in Committee

2007-02-06T01:41:00.000-07:00

On Friday, February 2, 2007

Wyoming Denturist HB163 Dies in Joint, Corporations, Elections, and Political Subdivisions Committee.

Braving Wyoming’s blizzard conditions, I traveled to Cheyenne, representing the denturist profession, in hopes of being present for the Committee’s discussion of Denturist HB163 and it moving from the committee to the full House. That hope soon turned to dismay as I saw the committee chairman look toward members of the Dental Board, and give a smirk followed by a smile. At that point, I knew that the outcome of Denturist HB163 had been preordained; HB163 was destined to fail.

In that moment, my idealism and honor of observing the legislative process was upheld by the Grit and Courage expressed by Representative Loraine Quarberg as she pleaded with Committee Chairman Pete Illoway to give it a chance to work; and turning to members of the Wyoming Dental Board, Representative Quarberg stated “I know, as professionals, they (the Dental Board) could put this together to make it work.”

Representative Quarberg and Representative Dan Zwonitzer were the yes votes. Dr. Paul Fanning, Secretary of the Dental Board, testified. While most of what he had to say was truthful, it was incomplete. He testified regarding Arizona denturist not renewing their denturist licenses. Most of the Denturists Licenses that elapsed during that time, however, were due to the retirement of said denturist.

Dr. Paul Fanning failed to tell the rest of the story, that the Arizona Dental Board approved the Bates denturist Program for licensed denturists. This information can be verified by calling Julie Chapho, executive director of the Arizona Dental Board.

The Fiscal note attached to HB163 stated that there was no accredited college for denturist in the United States. I presented documentation of Bates Technical College being accredited. Dr. Fanning then said that the Denturist program wasn’t accredited by the American Dental Association. Dr. Fanning knows that the ADA isn’t going to approve a denturist program, even if it were an eight year doctoral program, merely because it has the word Denturist in it.

He referred to Denturists as nothing more than glorified dental technicians with as little as two years of college education or less, in comparison to a dentist with six years, plus two years for specialty. Dr. Fanning failed to make the committee aware that, were a dentist doing nothing more than recognizing healthy tissue, fabricating and fitting dentures, then that two years would be more than sufficient. Dental Hygienist programs are two to four years depending on the school.

The scope of a Dentist’s practice is far greater than that of a denturist. Dentistry is a healing art, dealing with diagnosis and treatment of pathology, surgery, injections, extractions, tooth preparation, dispensing pharmaceuticals, and this list is too exhaustive to continue on. Denturism, however, is recognizing healthy tissues, referral services to dentists or medical doctors if unhealthy tissues are apparent, impressions, fabrication of the prosthesis, and any needed adjustments. A two year denturist program in an accredited college is plenty enough for Wyoming denturists, just as it is plenty for Arizona denturists; since Dr. Fanning is willing to compare the two, and since the Arizona Dental Board approved of a two year denturist program at Bates Technical College in Tacoma Washington.

Dr. Fanning, Secretary of the Wyoming Dental Board, concluded to the committee that the Denturist HB163 was a public health and safety issue. In different studies by other denturist regulated states, they have found no public health, or safety concern. In 1987, Washington State Health Coordinating Council under the department of Social and Health Services found that Denturists posed no threat to the public’s health and that legislation on denturism should be enacted. Personally I see as a public health issue, dental care being inaccessible to those in need, due to high prices, or ineligibility for Medicaid.

Due to the Injunction imposed upon me by the Wyoming Dental Board, I've been unable to provide the denturists service to those who I have served since 1992. Some of these patients have said that they will wait until I’m able to open up once more, however I merely tell them to see their dentists.

And, to our legislators who have shown the necessary backbone, grit, and common sense in the welfare of Wyoming’s populous, I would like to raise you up above the Self-important, Self-serving legislators, who would sacrifice the greater good for their own Self-interest. Your determination and steadfastness has been greatly appreciated.

Sincerely in His service
Gary W. Vollan- licensed denturist
Wyoming State Denturist Association
www.wysda.org
P.O. Box 332
Basin, Wyoming 82410
1-307-568-2047
vollan@tctwest.net

Denturist Wanted

2007-01-22T22:54:00.000-07:00

WANTED: qualified, educated, denturist, for advocacy positions across the United States. Please contact Gary W. Vollan-licensed denturist at vollan@tctwest.net or in Wyoming at 307.568.2047 or contact one of the colleges or denturist organizations listed below.

Denturist make, place, construct, alter, reproduce, and/or repair dentures directly to the public. This includes; an oral exam recognizing healthy tissue, referral services, impressions, and adjustments.

Becoming a licensed denturist is not an easy task. Before obtaining a license, a candidate must pass comprehensive practical and written examinations. The written examination challenges candidates to show their clinical knowledge of oral health issues, including microbiology, physiology, oral pathology, head and neck anatomy and more. The practical examination requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to take oral impressions, design a denture from the impression, create a denture from the design, and fit the denture in the patient's mouth so that it works well and is comfortable to wear.

Education

Bates Technical College
http://www.bates.ctc.edu/

George Brown College of Denturism
http://www.georgebrown.ca/Marketing/FTCal/hsci/S101.aspx

Denturist Advocacy Organizations

International Federation of Denturists
http://www.international-denturist.org/

National Denturist Association
http://www.nationaldenturist.com/

Oregon State Denturist Association
http://www.ordenturist.org

Washington Denturist Association
http://www.wadenturist.com

Wyoming State Denturist Association
http://www.wysda.org

Denturist HB163 Posted Today

2007-01-10T22:40:00.000-07:00

I would like to commend Representative Lorraine Quarberg, for her grit in sponsoring HB163, along with Senators Charles Scott and Ray Peterson. This is the same denturist legislation sponsored by Representative Quarberg last session. The same legislation was endorsed by the Silver Haired Legislators, in September 2006.
The Denturist HB163, unlike the "Wyoming Denturism Act", initiative, puts denturist on the dental board without a denturist vote, but at least it's a foot in the door. I feel health care professions should have their own boards. If the Dental Hygienist profession had their own board and wasn't in the white knuckled grasp of the dental board, preventive dentistry would take on a whole different meaning.
The Dental Hygienist profession would see a growth in their profession with two or more hygienist in each office. They would service far more people as far as cleanings, at a much younger age and for less money. Referrals to the dentist would be as needed. It would eliminate a number of unnecessary dental procedures and save health care dollars.
*please see Denturist HB163 at http://legisweb.state.wy.us/2007/billindex/BillCrossRef.aspx
Gary W. Vollan, of Basin, Wyoming, I'm a dad of ten children. As an advocate for the denturist profession, I have been in the dental profession since 1972. http://www.wysda.org/

Shall a law be enacted.......

2007-01-02T21:20:00.000-07:00

“Wyoming Denturism Act” The Wyoming Coalition for Freedom of Choice in denture care
Shall a law be enacted... Which would allow denturists to make, place, and sell dentures directly to the public? The denturist would be regulated by a new state board of denturists. A denturist would be required to refer patients to a dentist or physician before making or fitting a denture if the denturist believes that there is any abnormality or disease in the mouth.

Fiscal Note: The fiscal impact cannot be determined, but it is expected that the proposed board would be funded by a series of license fees on denturists.

Statement For: This denturism initiative closely resembles measures that have been passed in Wyoming’s surrounding states. Since 1982 in Idaho, 1984 in Montana, and 1979 in Oregon, denturism has been proven to be an effective, safe, and affordable option for denture patients. Canada has recognized the profession of denturism for over 30 years. These states and countries have proven that a denturist is a competent and reliable alternative to a dentist for the provision of dentures. The Washington State Health Coordinating Council under the department of Social and Health Services in 1987 found that denturists posed no threat to the public’s health and that legislation on denturism should be enacted. Denturists are different than denture laboratory technicians. The denturism initiative does not include a “grandfather clause” and it calls for individuals who wish to become licensed Wyoming denturists to pass a written and practical board certified exam. This exam covers college level course topics such as: microbiology, oral pathology, gerontology, and partial denture construction and design. Licensed denturists will be highly qualified denture health care providers. Finally, the profession of denturism has proven to lower the costs of dentures due to increased competition in the provision of dentures to the general public. The denturist initiative simply provides the citizens of Wyoming with the FREEDOM OF CHOICE for their denture care. Upon passage of the denturism initiative, Wyoming’s people will finally receive the same options that their neighbors have received for decades.

Affordable Denture-ist, or Denture Care

2006-12-28T19:04:00.000-07:00

December 28th, 2006

May your New Year be filled with prosperity in every form. Affordable housing, affordable living, affordable insurance, affordable down payment, affordable health care, and how about affordable denture-ist or denture care. Affordable is by Webster’s definition: to be able to bear the cost of. Like everything else denture care expense is on the rise. The, “over the counter” denture adhesives, reline and repair kits keep going up.
Okay, okay what are we after here? You know I’m just not sure. At some point I need you all to raise some plain old fashion heck. Affordable and quality denture care is possible through the denturist profession. Wyoming is next and then your state. You don’t wear dentures? Who does? Someone you know does. You remember the old trickle down theory. It all has to do with our neighbor and what we all do for our neighbor. We can work together and push for passage of a denturist bill or initiative, Wyoming Denturism Act , for affordable denture care in our states. This is the right thing to do. It gives people freedom of choice in denture care.
Most denturist don’t charge for consultations, most denturist don’t charge for adjustments, most denturist take the time to talk about your denture care needs. Most denturist go through extra procedures for additional care. It’s part of the denturist profession. Denturist as a rule, value good work ethics.
If your interested in starting a coalition for affordable denture care in your state, contact the NDA, National Denturist Association http://www.nationaldenturist.com/ and they will be able to give you, contact information for organizations or denturist to contact. You can also contact your state senators and representatives. If your in Wyoming call me and we’ll work together to help our neighbor. Thank you for your consideration. Gary W. Vollan, state coordinator for the Wyoming State Denturist Association, http://www.wysda.org/ .

Just a reminder, I'm a denturist

2006-12-23T20:52:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone, Christmas is here once again. Yes, I made it again. Getting through the stores, and seeing the grief and stress on others was a reminder of those that struggle to make ends meet financially. It was tough this year. As a licensed denturist, practicing since 1992, here in beautiful Basin, Wyoming, I was closed down by an injunction filed by the Wyoming dental board. Two months before Christmas and a house full of kids it was a miracle to watch things come together and know the Lord was instrumental in making it work. It was all a reminder of why I love the denturist profession providing affordable denture care. When the Lord sends me His special people I just know I give from my heart. I give the best service I can and the rest falls into place. Just a reminder that I need to do what I've been educated to do because that too was a miracle to complete school. It's all a reminder of how everything works together to the good if we look to Him. This is just a break in my denturist career, a small struggle, and just a reminder of where I come from and why the Lord blessed me with this profession, that I need to serve to the best of my ability, providing affordable denture care to those in need. May the Lord bless and keep you all through the holidays. I look forward to serving you again---gary

How the denturist profession was created by the creator; The dentist.

2006-12-11T20:59:00.000-07:00

As I said earlier, I finished a two year associates degree in dental lab technology in dentures and crown and bridge with the honorable instructors, Cliff Redinski (sp) and Jim Lincoln both dedicated to their profession and their students. This happened at Seattle Central Community College and I graduated in 1980. It was a good time of learning. I worked part time at SS White Dental Supply and made my way through the Medical Dental Bldgs downtown Seattle talking to anyone I could regarding the dental profession, mostly dental technicians, denture, cr. and bridge, frameworks and a few prosthetist here and there.

I always had a love for dentures. I'd spend hours watching the guys working dentures. It didn't mater if they were a doctor or technician. If they had a denture in their hand I was all eyeballs and ears.

I had the background at this point to communicate with them. Prior to this I was in the Navy from 1971 through 1975 and I finished "A" school as a dental technician and was stationed at Parris Island, S.C., with the Marine Corp doing dental work on the recruits. It was good duty as far as experience in the dental profession.

A number of denture technicians tried directing me into cr and bridge because the professionalism from the dentist and money was better. I heard all the stories both good and bad of being a denture technician and working with dentist. Most of the stories weren't good, low pay, remakes (most due to error on the dentist part), long hours and the big one, if you complained or asked for the account to be paid then the dentist sent their work to another dental laboratory for awhile. Some would leave with a balance due and wouldn't send you anymore work.

I was pretty well set on being a denturist at an early stage of my profession as a dental technician. I worked for a few dental labs and saw things happen that I didn't like. Remakes at the labs expense. Low pay. It was always the talk how dentist abused their, " lab man".
Don't get me wrong. Yes, there are some good professional dentist, but they were and are few.

I ended up going to Montana and starting a dental lab and trying to work through the pit falls of having your own business. The tough part was the economy at that time and having very little business experience. It didn't take me long to understand that bushwhacking was a part of being a denture technician. For those that don't know what a bushwhacker is; it's was a term given to a denture technician ( way back when, I have no idea when and where it originated) that works directly with the patient providing denture care and at the same time in most cases works with a dentist. Yes, you had to be careful. If the dentist found out, you wouldn't get any more work from them. That's why a number of people with denture labs can't come forward when a state works to regulate denturist. If they come forward the dentist would quit sending work to them and they would loose their income and all that they've worked for.

Denturist organized in Montana and I come out in support of the denturist and ended up closing my denture lab and headed back to the west coast to work and eventually graduated from the Oregon State Denturist College.

Wyoming State Denturist Association or wysda.org

2006-12-11T14:27:00.000-07:00

Re: Dentist closing down denture makers in the UK. Denturist are dealing with the same thing across the U.S., as if the dentist don't have enough work doing preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry. In most cases it takes a month or two for an appointment to see a good dentist. We denturist know it's a turf issue and the few dentist willing to make trouble with the denturist are usually of the less ethically inclined.

The majority of the patients I do dentures for are on fixed incomes and they usually will not go into a dental office because of time, prices or the fact that their edentulous. This gives me the opportunity to do an exam, if I see any tissue that doesn't look healthy I refer that patient out to a dentist, oral surgeon, or physician. A number of these patients buy over the counter self-repair or self-reline kits that are usually not good to use because they don't last or when they come together the bite is wrong and this causes TMJ temporal mandibular joint discomfort and or long term disorders. Most denturist do repairs and relines and charge about half of what the dentist do.

I was shut down by the Wyoming dental board in October 2006 and I've practiced here in Basin, Wyoming since 1992. I'm also a graduate of George Brown's IDEC denturist program. Excellent program and my hat's off to Mr. Mike Vakalis and associates. Let's organize through, the NDA, National Denturist Association http://www.nationaldenturist.com/ and IFD, International Federation of Denturist, http://www.international-denturist.org . Thank you for your consideration. Gary W. Vollan, Wyoming State Denturist Association, http://www.wysda.org/