What began as the notion of a “professional obligation” (becoming a member of a dental association) has transformed Kevin Cook, D.D.S into one of Michigan’s premier future leaders of organized dentistry – and he just graduated from dental school roughly two months ago.

“My perception of what it means to belong to organized dentistry has changed from ‘this is something you just do (pay your dues, hang up your membership decal in the office and brag to your patients about being a member),’ to a strong appreciation for the size, scope and services provided by organized dentistry,” Cook said during a recent interview. “There’s just so much more than paying your dues and saying you’re a member.”

Cook’s experience with organized dentistry is akin to any endeavor one chooses to partake in; namely, the results are the fruit of your labor.

”There’s no doubt your experience with organized dentistry will be a result of the effort you put in,” Cook added. “I’m not saying everyone has to jump in like I did, but there’s really something for everyone to get passionate about within the organized dental community – you just have to look.”

“There’s an old saying that there’s power in numbers – and organized dentistry is a clear example of the success afforded by dentists joining together in large numbers,” reflected Cook. “Having an understanding and appreciation for the advocacy services we’re able to employ and everything else that organized dentistry offers gives you a different perspective on what it means to invest in membership.”

Looking forward, Cook wants aspiring dental students and new dentists to understand that to safeguard the profession the time to invest in membership in organized dentistry is now.

“For the future of our profession,” Cook stressed, “it is absolutely imperative that young dentists get involved, stay involved and help lead a united dental community to face the challenges of the 21st Century. Without joining together, we’re bound to end up risking everything we’ve gained during the past 150-plus years.”

Josh Lord is the Director of Membership and Student Affairs for the Michigan Dental Association located in Lansing, MI. He specializes in membership recruitment and retention, public relations, student affairs, event planning and social networking initiatives.