1. What is the Missouri Dental Association?  Founded in 1865  Non-profit, professional organization with more than 2,200 members  Committed to the highest quality of care for the public and a resource for advocacy, education, communication, information and fellowship  Governed by a 16-member board and has eight executive office staff to serve our members

2. Benefits of Organized Dentistry Advocate for access to oral health care and positive practice environments Influence oral health policy Raise awareness about the importance of oral health Network with colleagues and friends Keep informed of timely issues Access to quality continuing education Save time and money

3. Lunch While You Learn A fun and informative program where speaker and great food is provided to discuss “real-world” topics that may not be taught in school:  Practice management  Associateships  Legislative advocacy  Debt repayment information  Insurance and more

4. On The Menu Lunches this year from Oklahoma Joe’s, Boston Market, On the Border, Panera, Waldo Pizza and more. Held on Wednesdays this year from 12:00pm to 12:45pm in Room 209. Available to MDA student members only. Solely sponsored by Missouri Dental Insurance Services.

5. Saving You Money Low $10 membership dues Missouri Dental Association Foundation offers scholarships (more than $142,000 in 11 years to 47 dental student members & 34 hygiene students) based on academic merit and financial need MDIS provides lunch, membership information and insurance materials during the dental board exams Free registration at MDA CE meetings MDA sponsors a student member from UMKC to attend the ASDA Annual Session

6. News You Can Use The Focus includes news of interest, official business of the Association, legislative updates and articles on various subjects related to the dental profession Modental.org includes recently added FAQ’s on dental topics; calendar of events; continuing education meetings and more MDA Update eNewsletter includes news briefs and features easy-to-access web links Follow us on Twitter, Become a fan of the MDA on Facebook and receive news updates directly from the MDA RSS feed

7. Legislative Advocacy The MDA advocates for you and the dental profession Legislative proposals directly impact dentistry and membership gives you a voice in legislative decisions that affect dentistry and your practice The MDA monitors important legislation and keeps you informed of important votes and legislative actions Visit face to face with legislators during the UMKC Student Legislative Day

8. Value in Learning Free registration and course fees at MDA Programs:  Annual Winter Session  MERIT Meeting Enjoy the camaraderie of peers Discover new clinical applications to refine techniques Learn practice management skills to run a better business Participate in extracurricular activities

9. Peace of Mind MDIS was formed to provide practical solutions to dentists’ business concerns. MDIS has returned over $1.6 million to the MDA to support a multitude of member events like Food For Thought program. Products and services available for students and their families include:  Board exam policies  Health, life & disability insurance  Home & auto insurance

10. How Will You Practice After Graduation? Associate, public health, solo practice? Utilize the Careers & Listings section on MODENTAL.org Connect with career opportunities and find ads for:  Practices seeking associates  Full and part time employment  Dental practices/equipment for sale  Auxiliaries seeking employment

11. Getting Down to Business FREE membership for the remainder of your graduation year and reduced dues for the next four years with reduced dues program New practice checklist with important “to-dos” and resources when beginning to practice Membership Resource Guide is an easy, at-a- glance reference for your practice needs Reduced fees at MDA CE events MDA New Dentist Committee organizes and plans activities for new dentists MDIS provides peace of mind and security with affordable insurance and financial products

12. Join Today Mail or fax your completed application to the MDA today. First Food For Thought program is September 28, 2011 Room 209 at Noon Enjoy lunch from Waldo Pizza