Dr. Michael D. Silverman is a globally recognized lecturer, educator, author and patients' rights advocate. He has appeared in front of 28 dental boards to advocate for the right of dentists to provide sedation in an environment of safe and reasonable regulations.
Dr. Silverman lectures across the globe on the methods, techniques and power of sedation dentistry. His previous speaking engagements have included:
- American Dental Association
- Academy of General Dentistry
- Yankee Dental Congress
- International Congress of Oral Implantologists
- American Association of Endodontists
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry
- American Dental Society of Anesthesiology
- German Association of Oral Implantology (Budapest, Hungary)
- Japanese Dental Anesthesia Society
A graduate of the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine and a passionate believer in lifelong Continuing Education (CE), he has changed the way tens of thousands of dentists practice; Dr. Silverman continues to impact dentistry as a champion of safe and effective minimal and moderate sedation.
Dr. Silverman's role at DOCS Education
As a general dentist with four decades of experience, Dr. Silverman first began studying anesthesia and sedation after noticing how many of his patients exhibited dental fear and anxiety.
Utilizing his training, including a mini-residency in IV sedation at Montefiore Hospital in New York City, he began developing safe and effective sedation dentistry techniques and protocols. Seeing the tremendously positive impact sedation treatments had on his patients, and the incredible need throughout the U.S., he joined forces with Dr. Anthony S. Feck to found the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation (now known as DOCS Education) in 1999.
As a faculty member and the President of DOCS Education, he has taught over 30,000 dental professionals how to safely implement sedation in their own practices.
Professional accomplishments and business ventures
Dr. Silverman's extensive dental background and entrepreneurial spirit led to the development of two additional dental-focused companies: RAMP, a full-service dental advertising agency, and Kidzcrowns, a rapidly growing pediatric dental crown company. He currently serves as the President of all three organizations.
In November 2015, Dr. Silverman was inducted as a Fellow of the International College of Dentists in recognition of his exemplary professional accomplishments and devotion to improving the practice of dentistry.
He has been published in many dental trade publications including AGD Impact, Dental Products Report, and Dental Economics.
Getting to know Dr. Silverman
What do you find most satisfying about teaching?
It is very rewarding to know that I can take what I studied and adapted for my practice and patients and multiply its effect to the lives of so many dentists and their patients. To have such a positive impact on those lives drives me.
Which do you consider your top three accomplishments in your career so far?
First, taking an idea from the basement of my practice to an international business that makes dentistry available to more patients. Secondly, having the opportunity to meet and collaborate with some of the best minds in dentistry. Finally, to see a whole new generation of dentists taking sedation and safety education and making it the standard of care.
What do you think others see as your contribution to the field?
Educating and supporting state boards as they craft rules to keep their communities safe but access to care viable. Popularizing sedation as a common modality in general practice
Who was the biggest influence in your career?
Dr. Ken Judy from the ICOI provided guidance on the development of membership services and supported the expansion of services general dentists could provide.
What is the best advice you would give to your younger self?
Trust yourself. Success is the result of being who you are and having a passion to help others.