Reflections from a grateful GOAL-getter

In my columns, I have always shared my thoughts on professional and personal success. I’ve shared MedMark Media’s triumphs, and in recent years searched with you for solutions to some very tough challenges. As always, I am so proud of MedMark Media’s publications and the team that has been the center of my life for so many years. With this column, I am thrilled to announce some amazing news. I just got back from Dallas where I won a 2023 Denobi Award! This prestigious honor is incredibly humbling and inspiring. The Denobi Awards recognize leaders in the dental industry worldwide — including, as the Denobi website notes, “clinicians, educators, brand leaders, students, administrative personnel, sales, advocates, speakers, and leading experts.” From the nominations, finalists include 10 individual winners, one dental team, and one individual that receives the esteemed Dr. Lou Shuman Denobi Pinnacle Achievement Award. Right now, I think back to the years when I ran MedMark out of my tiny condo. Step by step the company has grown into publishing of five magazines, many digital platforms, podcasts, webinars, and opportunities. Some have described me as a “go-getter,” but I like to define myself as a “goal-getter.”

Speaking of setting and reaching new goals, you all know that specialty dentistry is our focus and our passion. So some more good news is the debut this spring of our newest national publication, Pediatric Dental Practice US.  Articles will focus on oral health from infancy through teens and offer pediatric dentists new insights on helping young patients. As we strive to inform and improve the practices of endodontists, implant specialists, orthodontists, and dental sleep medicine professionals, reaching clinicians that care for the youngest patients seems like a perfect fit into our coverage of dental care that spans a lifetime.

In this issue of Orthodontic Practice US, our cover story shows how Dr. Alyssa Emory-Carter went from using the DentalMonitoring platform in a pilot study for her clear aligner patients to helping her maintain close patient follow-up, improve patient satisfaction, and encourage practice growth — all while monitoring practice efficiency. Our CE by Dr. Chung How Kau and colleagues defines the role of specialists and the orthodontist in treating cleft palate as well as modern methods to correct the condition from birth to teen years. In our AAO Special Section, we shine a spotlight on innovations to help the orthodontic practice become more efficient and effective including payment processing, AI, treatment options, analytics, equipment, and more. Our Practice Profile gives insight into Dr. Sima Yakoby Epstein, her very interesting journey to dentistry and her integration of professional-grade self-care products into her practice.

I struggled over whether to announce the Denobi Award in my column. That humble voice in my head didn’t want to seem boastful. But, I know that my team, friends, readers, and advertisers would want to share in my excitement of this recognition. This is not just about me. I always try to encourage you all to take some chances, believe in yourself, and as inspirational author Norman Vincent Peale advises have a “humble but reasonable confidence in your own powers.” I also try to emphasize my philosophy of “know your worth.” It sure is a fantastic feeling when others realize your worth too.

To your best success,

Lisa Moler,
Founder/Publisher, MedMark Media