Massachusetts Dental Society

The Massachusetts Dental Society aims to meet the continuing education (CE) needs of all dental professionals by offering a multitude of courses, seminars, and symposia, as well as the annual Yankee Dental Congress. It was established in 1864 Practitioners who prescribe controlled substances are required by the State of Massachusetts to obtain training in Pain Management and Controlled Substance abuse.  According to Massachusetts General Laws, (M.G.L.94C section 18), practitioners who prescribe controlled substances are required to complete as a prerequisite to obtaining or renewing their license to complete appropriate training relative to: Effective pain management, Identification of patients at high risk for substance abuse and Counseling patients about the side effects. Prescription drug abuse is a critical problem that’s reaching epidemic proportions. It’s estimated that more than six million Americans are affected, with the cost to our health care system continuing to be on the rise. The Massachusetts Dental Society and the MDS Dental Practice Committee would like to thank those who have supported our stipend and scholarship opportunities through the years. Team Smile and the MDS Foundation teamed up at Yankee Dental Congress 2016 to provide more than $82,000 dental care to 163 Boston children. Groups of elementary students from Dorchester and Roxbury schools and after-school programs received comprehensive oral health education, exams, X-rays, sealants, and fillings over the two-day program. Care was provided by nearly 400 clinical volunteers including dentists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants. A team of non-clinical staff kept the program areas flowing efficiently and entertained the children between treatments and exams. The MDS Foundation has an exciting new way to help our members give back to the community by developing and coordinating oral health community outreach programs benefiting populations in need. Low-income families and individuals face many barriers to accessing dental care. As a result, the MDS advocates for those in need by developing innovative programs for underprivileged children, while also making known other reduced-cost dental programs throughout the state.