Current Issue: Volume 102, Number 2 (2025)

The Spring 2025 issue of the Virginia Dental Journal (Volume 102, Number 2) highlights the Virginia Dental Association’s (VDA) continued focus on solving the dental workforce shortage through legislative advocacy, expanded educational pathways, and member engagement. President Dr. Justin Norbo outlines efforts such as partnering with colleges, supporting new training models, and pursuing licensure reforms. A key development is the debut of The Fulcrum Podcast, which offers in-depth conversations on topics like workforce issues, insurance transparency, and audit preparation. The issue provides a detailed review of the 2025 General Assembly session, with updates on bills impacting dental practice, including support for licensure expansion and protections against excessive insurance fees. Dr. Bruce Hutchison emphasizes the importance of member support for the VDA PAC to maintain influence in policy decisions. Clinical content includes endodontic abstracts from VCU residents, covering topics like sodium hypochlorite concentrations, internal bleaching, orthodontic impacts on RCTs, and cracked tooth management. Additional features explore communication strategies, audit readiness, and how to discuss fluoridation with patients. Personal stories, member recognition, and tributes—including a memorial for Sister Bernie—round out the issue, reinforcing the VDA’s commitment to advocacy, education, and professional connection.