ITP #7 - Shaping the Future of Dentistry: Advocacy, Policy, and the Power of Engagement

In this episode of Inside The Practice, hosts Alan Hollander and Sarah Boylan sit down with Dr. Barry Taylor, Executive Director of the Oregon Dental Association and longtime leader in organized dentistry. 

With decades of clinical and administrative experience, Dr. Taylor shares how dental associations continue to play a critical role in advocating for the profession, shaping policy, and building a strong, supportive community for dental professionals.

1. Advocacy Isn't Optional—It's Essential

 Dr. Taylor emphasizes the importance of organized advocacy, especially around third-party payer issues like prompt payment laws and reimbursement parity with medical providers. 

Associations are the boots on the ground where individual practitioners simply can't be.

2. Community Eases the Burden of Practice Stress

 The dental profession is often misunderstood for its stress levels. 

Taylor highlights how associations help reduce burnout and loneliness by creating spaces like the Oregon Dental Conference for meaningful peer-to-peer interaction and professional support.

3. Saliva Testing and the Future of Oral-Systemic Integration

 The ADA’s approval of a new saliva testing code is a game-changer in integrating dentistry into broader healthcare. 

Taylor explains how associations not only pushed for this code but are now working to ensure reimbursement follows, enabling broader adoption of preventive services.

4. Empowering the Entire Dental Team

 Oregon is pioneering new scopes for dental assistants, including administering anesthesia. 

Dr. Taylor advocates for expanded professional pathways and recognition across the team to support retention and career growth in dental practices.

5. Participation Doesn't Mean Leadership—Just Show Up

 Engagement in state associations doesn't require taking on leadership roles. 

Taylor's message: Being a member, sharing your ideas, and supporting the mission is more than enough to contribute to meaningful change in the profession.

Dr. Taylor’s message is clear: associations are not just about policies and conferences—they're about people, relationships, and the profession’s future. The more dentists plug into the community, the more we all benefit from shared advocacy, innovation, and support.

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