birner10q3rdqtr_11102008.htm
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q
(Mark One)

[X]
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2008

OR

[  ]
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(D) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from ________________  to ________________

Commission file number 0-23367

BIRNER DENTAL MANAGEMENT SERVICES, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)


COLORADO
84-1307044
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
(IRS Employer
Identification No.)


 
3801 EAST FLORIDA AVENUE, SUITE 508
DENVER, COLORADO
 
80210
(Address of principal executive offices)
(Zip Code)

(303) 691-0680
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

N/A
(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.
Yes  [X]  No [ ]                               

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company.  See definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check One):
 
 Large accelerated filer   [ ] 
 Accelerated filer  [ ]   
 Non-accelerated filer  [ ]   
 Smaller reporting company [X]
   
  (Do not check if a smaller
 
   
 reporting company)
 
       

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).  Yes  [ ]  No  [X]          

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.
 
Class
 
 
Shares Outstanding as of November 10, 2008
Common Stock, without par value
 
1,890,608


 

 
 
BIRNER DENTAL MANAGEMENT SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
INDEX TO FORM 10-Q

PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1.   Financial Statements
Page
     
 
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2007 and September 30, 2008 (Unaudited)
3
   
 
 
Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income for the Quarters and Nine Months Ended September, 2007 and 2008
4
     
 
Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity and Comprehensive Income as of September 30, 2008
5
     
 
Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2007 and 2008
6
     
 
Unaudited Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
8
     
Item 2.
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
16
     
Item 3.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
25
     
Item 4.
Controls and Procedures
26
     
     
PART II - OTHER INFORMATION
 
     
Item 1.A 
Risk Factors
26
     
Item 2.
Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
26
     
Item 6.
Exhibits
27
     
 
Signatures
28


 
- 2 -

 

PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1.  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
BIRNER DENTAL MANAGEMENT SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
 
             
   
December 31,
   
September 30,
 
ASSETS
 
2007
   
2008
 
     
**
   
(Unaudited)
 
CURRENT ASSETS:
             
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 964,150     $ 718,444  
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful
               
accounts of $291,827 and $293,264, respectively
    3,008,550       3,271,118  
Deferred tax asset
    178,591       229,854  
Income taxes receivable
    26,817       -  
Prepaid expenses and other assets
    620,365       541,376  
                 
Total current assets
    4,798,473       4,760,792  
                 
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, net
    4,533,531       4,249,909  
                 
OTHER NONCURRENT ASSETS:
               
Intangible assets, net
    11,393,590       10,816,933  
Deferred charges and other assets
    171,687       161,433  
                 
Total assets
  $ 20,897,281     $ 19,989,067  
                 
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
               
                 
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
               
Accounts payable
  $ 1,945,420     $ 1,681,520  
Accrued expenses
    1,334,785       1,244,082  
Accrued payroll and related expenses
    1,456,477       2,114,174  
Income taxes payable
    -       402,942  
Current maturities of long-term debt
    920,000       920,000  
                 
Total current liabilities
    5,656,682       6,362,718  
                 
LONG-TERM LIABILITIES:
               
Deferred tax liability, net
    633,667       758,275  
Long-term debt, net of current maturities
    4,784,511       5,654,158  
Other long-term obligations
    291,266       287,554  
                 
Total liabilities
    11,366,126       13,062,705  
                 
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY:
               
Preferred Stock, no par value, 10,000,000 shares
               
authorized; none outstanding
    -       -  
Common Stock, no par value, 20,000,000 shares authorized;
               
2,123,440 and  1,899,867 shares issued and outstanding, respectively
    3,028,515       -  
Retained earnings
    6,536,796       6,952,045  
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
    (34,156 )     (25,683 )
                 
Total shareholders' equity
    9,531,155       6,926,362  
                 
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity
  $ 20,897,281     $ 19,989,067  
                 
** Derived from the Company’s audited consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2007.
 
                 
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements

 
- 3 -

 

BIRNER DENTAL MANAGEMENT SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
 
(UNAUDITED)
 
   
     
Quarters Ended
   
Nine Months Ended
 
     
September 30,
   
September 30,
 
     
2007
   
2008
   
2007
   
2008
 
                           
NET REVENUE:
  $ 8,640,137     $ 8,763,895     $ 27,118,172     $ 26,504,119  
                                   
DIRECT EXPENSES:
                               
 
Clinical salaries and benefits
    2,271,625       2,351,310       7,107,765       7,510,984  
 
Dental supplies
    608,885       627,377       1,763,791       1,845,599  
 
Laboratory fees
    628,877       693,809       1,998,289       2,085,682  
 
Occupancy
    1,174,333       1,213,074       3,448,489       3,601,979  
 
Advertising and marketing
    143,023       105,227       559,100       331,775  
 
Depreciation and amortization
    609,470       623,199       1,830,548       1,826,232  
 
General and administrative
    1,126,024       1,192,403       3,421,685       3,629,391  
        6,562,237       6,806,399       20,129,667       20,831,642  
                                   
 
Contribution from dental offices
    2,077,900       1,957,496       6,988,505       5,672,477  
                                   
CORPORATE EXPENSES:
                               
 
General and administrative
    894,079  (1)     975,006  (1)     3,194,729  (2)     2,805,315  (2)
 
Depreciation and amortization
    26,785       25,519       84,887       72,173  
                                   
 
Operating income
    1,157,036       956,971       3,708,889       2,794,989  
                                   
 
Interest expense
    90,832       63,819       286,151       199,817  
                                   
 
Income before income taxes
    1,066,204       893,152       3,422,738       2,595,172  
 
Income tax expense
    431,164       393,005       1,392,985       1,127,270  
                                   
 
Net income
  $ 635,040     $ 500,147     $ 2,029,753     $ 1,467,902  
                                   
                                   
 
Net income per share of Common Stock - Basic
  $ 0.31     $ 0.25     $ 0.96     $ 0.71  
                                   
 
Net income per share of Common Stock - Diluted
  $ 0.28     $ 0.24     $ 0.89     $ 0.69  
                                   
 
Cash dividends per share of Common Stock
  $ 0.15     $ 0.17     $ 0.45     $ 0.51  
                                   
 
Weighted average number of shares of
                               
 
Common Stock and dilutive securities:
                               
 
Basic
    2,074,314       1,992,821       2,108,006       2,070,157  
                                   
 
Diluted
    2,243,889       2,045,245       2,287,075       2,141,674  
                                   
   
(1)  
Corporate expense - general and administrative includes $81,030 of equity compensation for a stock award and $102,100 related to stock-based compensation expense in the quarter ended September 30, 2007, and $186,306 related to stock-based compensation expense in the quarter ended September 30, 2008.
 
(2)  
Corporate expense - general and administrative includes $243,090 of equity compensation for a stock award and $292,686 related to stock-based compensation expense in the nine months ended September 30, 2007, and $544,337 related to stock-based compensation expense in the nine months ended September 30, 2008.

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements

 
- 4 -

 
 

BIRNER DENTAL MANAGEMENT SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(UNAUDITED)
                               
   
Common Stock
             
   
Shares
   
Amount
   
Comprehensive Income
   
Retained Earnings
   
Shareholders' Equity
 
                               
BALANCES, December 31, 2007
    2,123,440     $ 3,028,515     $ (34,156 )   $ 6,536,796     $ 9,531,155  
Common Stock options exercised
    26,685       293,788               -       293,788  
Purchase and retirement of Common Stock
    (250,258 )     (3,869,219 )             (11,298 )     (3,880,517 )
Tax benefit of Common Stock options exercised
    -       2,579               -       2,579  
Dividends declared on Common Stock
    -       -               (1,041,355 )     (1,041,355 )
Stock-based compensation expense
    -       544,337               -       544,337  
Other comprehensive income
                    8,473               8,473  
Net income, nine months ended September 30, 2008
    -       -       1,467,902       1,467,902       1,467,902  
Comprehensive income
                    1,476,375                  
                                         
BALANCES, September 30, 2008
    1,899,867     $ -     $ (25,683 )   $ 6,952,045     $ 6,926,362  
                                         
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements

 
- 5 -

 


             
BIRNER DENTAL MANAGEMENT SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
 
(UNAUDITED)
 
   
Nine Months Ended
 
   
September 30,
 
   
2007
   
2008
 
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
           
Net income
  $ 2,029,753     $ 1,467,902  
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net
               
cash provided by operating activities:
               
Depreciation and amortization
    1,915,435       1,898,405  
Stock compensation expense
    535,776       544,337  
Loss on disposition of property
    -       885  
Provision for doubtful accounts
    501,556       559,375  
Provision for deferred income taxes
    (45,819 )     73,345  
Changes in assets and liabilities net of effects
               
from acquisitions:
               
Accounts receivable
    (860,174 )     (821,943 )
Prepaid expenses and other assets
    91,542       78,989  
Deferred charges and other assets
    8,383       10,254  
Accounts payable
    46,849       (263,901 )
Accrued expenses
    (141,674 )     (87,741 )
Accrued payroll and related expenses
    355,944       657,697  
Income taxes payable
    472,710       429,759  
Other long-term obligations
    (7,811 )     (3,712 )
Net cash provided by operating activities
    4,902,470       4,543,651  
                 
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
               
Capital expenditures
    (528,276 )     (671,033 )
Development of new dental centers
    -       (367,977 )
Net cash used in investing activities
    (528,276 )     (1,039,010 )
                 
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
               
Advances – line of credit
    16,161,137       18,476,809  
Repayments – line of credit
    (16,825,726 )     (16,917,162 )
Repayments – Term Loan
    (460,000 )     (690,000 )
Repayment of long-term debt
    (33,561 )     -  
Proceeds from exercise of Common Stock options
    256,753       293,788  
Purchase and retirement of Common Stock
    (2,808,158 )     (3,880,517 )
Tax benefit of Common Stock options exercised
    99,620       2,579  
Common Stock cash dividends
    (912,269 )     (1,035,844 )
Net cash used in financing activities
    (4,522,204 )     (3,750,347 )
                 
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND
               
CASH EQUIVALENTS
    (148,010 )     (245,706 )
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, beginning of period
    888,186       964,150  
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, end of period
  $ 740,176     $ 718,444  
                 
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements

 
- 6 -

 
 
BIRNER DENTAL MANAGEMENT SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(UNAUDITED)
 
   
Nine Months Ended
 
   
September 30,
 
   
2007
   
2008
 
             
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH
           
FLOW INFORMATION:
           
             
Cash paid during the year for interest
  $ 350,677     $ 245,548  
Cash paid during the year for income taxes
  $ 866,475     $ 620,000  
                 
NON-CASH ITEM:
               
                 
Gain recognized on interst rate swap (net of taxes)
  $ -     $ 8,473  
 
 
- 7 -


 
BIRNER DENTAL MANAGEMENT SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)
September 30, 2008

(1)         UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The condensed consolidated financial statements included herein have been prepared by Birner Dental Management Services, Inc. (the “Company”) pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission. Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States have been condensed or omitted pursuant to such rules and regulations, although the Company believes that the disclosures included herein are adequate to make the information presented not misleading. A description of the Company’s accounting policies and other financial information is included in the audited consolidated financial statements as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007.

In the opinion of management, the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements contain all adjustments necessary to present fairly the financial position of the Company as of September 30, 2008 and the results of operations and cash flows for the periods presented.  All such adjustments are of a normal recurring nature.  The results of operations for the quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2008 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be achieved for a full fiscal year and cannot be used to indicate financial performance for the entire year.

Effective April, 1, 2008, the Company has reclassified dentist and hygiene contract labor expenses from clinical salaries and benefits to net revenue and has adjusted prior periods in this filing.  The reclassification had no effect on contribution from dental offices or net income.  The reclassification was approximately $127,000 and $200,000 for the quarters ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively.  The reclassification was approximately $497,000 and $461,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

Effective July 1, 2008, the Company has reclassified dental assistant wages from clinical salaries and benefits to net revenue and has adjusted prior periods in this filing.  The reclassification had no effect on contribution from dental offices or net income.  The reclassification was approximately $1.3 million and $1.2 million for the quarters ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively.  The reclassification was approximately $3.8 million and $3.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

Due to the Company buying back common stock at prices higher than the issue price, the Company’s common stock balance is a negative $11,297 as of September 30, 2008.  The Company has reclassified this negative balance to retained earnings on the balance sheet.


(2)        SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Intangible Assets

The Company's dental practice acquisitions involve the purchase of tangible and intangible assets and the assumption of certain liabilities of the acquired dental offices (“Offices”). As part of the purchase price allocation, the Company allocates the purchase price to the tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed, based on estimated fair market values. Costs of acquisition in excess of the net estimated fair value of tangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed are allocated to the management agreement related to the Office (“Management Agreement”). The Management Agreement represents the Company's right to manage the Offices during the 40-year term of the Management Agreement. The assigned value of the Management Agreement is amortized using the straight-line method over a period of 25 years.  Amortization was $195,015 and $194,932 for the quarters ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively. Amortization was $584,990 and $584,740 for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

The Management Agreements cannot be terminated by the related professional corporation without cause, consisting primarily of bankruptcy or material default by the Company.

In the event that facts and circumstances indicate that the carrying value of long-lived and intangible assets may be impaired, an evaluation of recoverability would be performed. If an evaluation were required, the estimated future undiscounted cash flows associated with the asset would be compared to the asset’s carrying amount to determine if a write-down to market value or discounted cash flow value would be required.

 
- 8 -

 

Stock Options

On January 1, 2006, the Company adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 123(R), "Share-Based Payment."  This standard revises SFAS 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation” and supersedes Accounting Principles Board (“APB”) Opinion 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees.” Under SFAS 123(R), the Company is required to measure the cost of employee services received in exchange for stock options and similar  awards based on the grant date fair value of the award and recognize this cost in the income statement over the period during which an employee is required to provide service in exchange for the award.

The Company adopted SFAS 123(R) using the modified prospective method. Under this transition method, stock-based compensation expense for the quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2008 includes: (i) compensation expense for all stock-based compensation awards granted prior to, but not yet vested as of January 1, 2006, based on the grant date fair value estimated in accordance with the original provision of SFAS 123; and (ii) compensation expense for all stock-based compensation awards granted subsequent to January 1, 2006, based on the grant date fair value estimated in accordance with the provision of SFAS 123(R). The Company recognizes compensation expense on a straight line basis over the requisite service period of the award. Total stock-based compensation expense included in the Company’s statement of income for the quarters ended September 30, 2008 and 2007 was approximately $186,000 and $102,000, respectively. Total stock-based compensation expense included in the Company’s statement of income for the nine months ended June 30, 2008 and 2007 was approximately $544,000 and $293,000, respectively. Total stock-based compensation expense was recorded as a component of corporate general and administrative expense.
 
The Black-Scholes option-pricing model was used to estimate the option fair values. The option-pricing model requires a number of assumptions, of which the most significant are expected stock price volatility, the expected pre-vesting forfeiture rate, expected dividend rate and the expected option term (the amount of time from the grant date until the options are exercised or expire). Expected volatility was calculated based upon actual historical stock price movements over the most recent periods ending September 30, 2008 equal to the expected option term. Expected pre-vesting forfeitures were estimated based on actual historical pre-vesting forfeitures over the most recent periods ending September 30, 2008 for the expected option term. From January 1, 2006 through December 31, 2007, the expected option term was calculated using the “simplified” method permitted by Staff Accounting Bulletin 107.   Starting January 1, 2008, the expected option term was calculated based on historical experience of the terms of previous options.
 
Income Taxes
 
Effective January 1, 2007, the Company adopted the provisions of FASB Interpretation No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes (“FIN 48”). FIN 48 clarifies the accounting for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in a company’s financial statements in accordance with FASB Statement No. 109, Accounting for Income Taxes. FIN 48 requires a company to determine whether it is more likely than not that a tax position will be sustained upon examination based upon the technical merits of the position. If the more-likely-than-not threshold is not met, a company must measure the tax position to determine the amount to recognize in the financial statements. The application of income tax law and regulations is inherently complex and subject to change. The Company is required to make many subjective assumptions and judgments regarding the income tax exposures. Changes in these subjective assumptions and judgments can materially affect amounts recognized in the Company’s financial statements.
 
At the adoption date of January 1, 2007 and at September 30, 2008, the Company had no unrecognized tax benefits which would affect the effective tax rate if recognized, and as of September 30, 2008, the Company had no accrued interest or penalties related to uncertain tax positions.
 
On initial application, FIN 48 was applied to all tax positions for which the statute of limitations remained open. The tax years 2004-2007 remain open to examination by taxing jurisdictions to which the Company is subject. The IRS report issued in July 2006 made no changes to the Company’s federal income tax return for 2004. No other federal or state examinations are ongoing or have been performed in the past three years.

 
- 9 -

 
 
SFAS 160
 
In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 160, “Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements” (“SFAS 160”). In SFAS 160, the FASB established accounting and reporting standards that require noncontrolling interests to be reported as a component of equity, changes in a parent’s ownership interest while the parent retains its controlling interest to be accounted for as equity transactions, and any retained noncontrolling equity investment upon the deconsolidation of a subsidiary to be initially measured at fair value. SFAS 160 is effective for annual periods beginning on or after December 15, 2008. Retroactive application of SFAS 160 is prohibited. The Company is currently evaluating the requirements of SFAS 160 and the potential impact on its financial statements.
 
SFAS 141(R)
 
In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141 (revised 2007), “Business Combinations” (“SFAS 141(R)”). In SFAS 141(R), the FASB retained the fundamental requirements of Statement No. 141 to account for all business combinations using the acquisition method (formerly the purchase method) and for an acquiring entity to be identified in all business combinations. However, the new standard requires the acquiring entity in a business combination to recognize all (and only) the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the transaction; establishes the acquisition-date fair value as the measurement objective for all assets acquired and liabilities assumed; and requires the acquirer to disclose to investors and other users all of the information they need to evaluate and understand the nature and financial effect of the business combination. SFAS 141(R) is effective for annual periods beginning on or after December 15, 2008. The Company is currently evaluating the requirements of SFAS 141(R) and the potential impact on its financial statements.  SFAS 141(R) will only impact the Company if it is party to a business combination after SFAS 141(R)  is effective.
 
FAS157-3
 
In October 2008, the FASB issued FSP No. FAS 157-3, Determining the Fair Value of a Financial Asset When the Market for That Asset is Not Active. FSP No. FAS 157-3 clarifies the application of SFAS No. 157 as it relates to the valuation of financial assets in a market that is not active for those financial assets. This FSP is effective immediately and includes those periods for which financial statements have not been issued. We currently do not have any financial assets that are valued using inactive markets, and as a result we are not impacted by the issuance of FSP No. FAS 157-3.
 
EITF 03-6-1
 
In June 2008, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued FASB Staff Position (“FSP”) No. EITF 03-6-1, Determining Whether Instruments Granted in Share-Based Payment Transactions Are Participating Securities (“FSP EITF 03-6-1”).  FSP EITF 03-6-1 concludes that unvested share-based payment awards that contain nonforfeitable rights to dividends or dividend equivalents are participating securities and must be included in the computation of basic earnings per share using the two-class method.  FSP EITF 03-6-1 is effective for us beginning January 1, 2009 and is to be applied on a retrospective basis to all periods presented.  We are currently evaluating the potential impact of the adoption of FSP EITF 03-6-1 on our financial position, cash flows and results of operations.
 
SFAS 162
 
In May 2008, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standard No. 162, The Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“SFAS 162”).  SFAS 162 identifies the sources of accounting principles and the framework for selecting the principles used in the preparation of financial statements that are presented in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) for nongovernmental entities. SFAS 162 was issued to include the GAAP hierarchy in the accounting literature established by the FASB.  SFAS 162 will be effective 60 days following the Securities and Exchange Commission approval of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board amendments to AU Section 411, The Meaning of Presented Fairly in Conformity With Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.  We do not expect the application of SFAS 162 will have a material impact on our financial position, cash flows or results of operations.
 
 
- 10 -

 
 
FAS 142-3
 
In April 2008, the FASB issued FSP FAS No. 142-3, Determination of the Useful Life of Intangible Assets (“FSP FAS 142-3”).  FSP FAS 142-3 amends the factors an entity should consider in developing renewal or extension assumptions used in determining the useful life of recognized intangible assets under SFAS No. 142, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (“SFAS 142”).  The intent of FSP FAS 142-3 is to improve the consistency between the useful life of a recognized intangible asset under SFAS 142 and the period of expected cash flows used to measure the fair value of the asset under SFAS 141(R) and other U.S. GAAP.  FSP FAS 142-3 is effective for us beginning January 1, 2009.  Early adoption is prohibited.  We do not expect the application of FSP FAS 142-3 will have a material impact on our financial position, cash flows or results of operations.
 
SFAS 161
 
In March 2008, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standard No. 161, Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities – An Amendment of FASB Statement No. 133 (“SFAS 161”) SFAS 161 enhances required disclosures regarding derivatives and hedging activities, including enhanced disclosures regarding how: a) an entity uses derivative instruments; b) derivative instruments and related hedged items are accounted for under FASB Statement No. 133, Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities; and c) derivative instruments and related hedged items affect an entity’s financial position, financial performance and cash flows.  This statement is effective for us beginning January 1, 2009.  Early adoption is encouraged by the FASB.  We do not expect the application of SFAS 161 will have a material impact on our financial position, cash flows or results of operations.
 

 (3)       EARNINGS PER SHARE

The Company calculates earnings per share in accordance with SFAS No. 128, “Earnings Per Share.”
 
   
Quarters Ended September 30,
 
   
2007
   
2008
 
   
Income
   
Shares
   
Per Share Amount
   
Income
   
Shares
   
Per Share Amount
 
Basic EPS:
                                   
Net income available to shares of Common Stock
  $ 635,040       2,074,314     $ 0.31     $ 500,147       1,992,821     $ 0.25  
                                                 
Effect of dilutive shares of Common Stock from stock options and warrants
    -       169,575       (0.03 )     -       52,424       (0.01 )
                                                 
Diluted EPS:
                                               
Net income available to shares of Common Stock
  $ 635,040       2,243,889     $ 0.28     $ 500,147       2,045,245     $ 0.24  
                                                 

The difference in weighted average shares outstanding between basic earnings per share and diluted earnings per share for the quarters ended September 30, 2008 and 2007 relates to the effect of 52,423 and 169,575 shares, respectively, of dilutive shares of Common Stock from stock options, which are included in total shares for the diluted calculation.  For the quarters ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, options to purchase 272,929 and 17,000 shares, respectively, of the Company’s Common Stock were not included in the computation of dilutive income per share because their effect was anti-dilutive.

 
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Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
   
2007
   
2008
 
   
Income
   
Shares
   
Per Share Amount
   
Income
   
Shares
   
Per Share Amount
 
Basic EPS:
                                   
Net income available to shares of Common Stock
  $ 2,029,753       2,108,006     $ 0.96     $ 1,467,902       2,070,157     $ 0.71  
                                                 
Effect of dilutive shares of Common Stock from stock options and warrants
    -       179,069       (0.07 )             71,517       (0.02 )
                                                 
Diluted EPS:
                                               
Net income available to shares of Common Stock
  $ 2,029,753       2,287,075     $ 0.89     $ 1,467,902       2,141,674     $ 0.69  
                                                 
 
The difference in weighted average shares outstanding between basic earnings per share and diluted earnings per share for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007 relates to the effect of 71,517 and 179,069 shares, respectively, of dilutive shares of Common Stock from stock options, which are included in total shares for the diluted calculation. For the nine months ended September 30, 2008, options to purchase 252,400 shares of the Company’s Common Stock were not included in the computation of dilutive income per share because their effect was anti-dilutive.


 (4)         STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION PLANS

At the Company’s June 2005 annual meeting of shareholders, the Company’s shareholders approved the 2005 Equity Incentive Plan (“2005 Plan”). The 2005 Plan was amended at the June 2007 annual meeting of shareholders to reserve 425,000 shares of Common Stock for issuance. The 2005 Plan provides for the grant of incentive stock options, restricted stock, restricted stock units and stock grants to employees (including officers and employee-directors) and non-statutory stock options to employees, directors and consultants. The objectives of this plan include attracting and retaining the best personnel, providing for additional performance incentives by providing employees with the opportunity to acquire Common Stock. As of September 30, 2008, there were 75,898 shares available for issuance under the 2005 Plan. The exercise price of the stock options issued under the 2005 Plan is equal to the market price, or market price plus 10% for shareholders who own greater than 10% of the Company, at the date of grant. These stock options expire seven years, or five years for shareholders who own greater than 10% of the Company, from the date of the grant and vest annually over a service period ranging from three to five years. The 2005 Plan is administered by a committee of two or more independent directors from the Company’s Board of Directors (the “Committee”). The Committee determines the eligible individuals to whom awards under the 2005 Plan may be granted, as well as the time or times at which awards will be granted, the number of shares to be granted to any eligible individual, the life of any award, and any other terms and conditions of the awards in addition to those contained in the 2005 Plan. As of September 30, 2008, there were 78,654 vested options, 199,362 unvested options and 60,000 vested restricted shares outstanding under the 2005 Plan.

The Employee Stock Option Plan (the ''Employee Plan'') was adopted by the Board of Directors effective as of October 30, 1995, and as amended on September 4, 1997, February 28, 2002, and June 8, 2004, reserved 479,250 shares of Common Stock for issuance. The Employee Plan provided for the grant of incentive stock options to employees (including officers and employee-directors) and non-statutory stock options to employees, directors and consultants. The Employee Plan expired by its terms on October 30, 2005. As of September 30, 2008, there were 141,000 vested options outstanding and 10,500 unvested options outstanding under the Employee Plan.

The Company uses the Black-Scholes pricing model to estimate the fair value of each option granted with the following weighted average assumptions:

 
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Quarters Ended
   
Nine Months Ended
 
   
September 30,
   
September 30,
 
Valuation Assumptions
 
2007 (6)
   
2008
   
2007
   
2008
 
                         
Expected life
    -       3.1  (2)     4.5  (1)     4.0  (2)
Risk-free interest rate (3)
    -       2.30 %     4.75 %     2.28 %
Expected volatility (4)
    -       63 %     58 %     58 %
Expected dividend yield
    -       5.00 %     3.07 %     3.39 %
Expected Forteiture (5)
    -       9.39 %     5.32 %     2.70 %
_____________________________

(1) 
The expected life, in years, of stock options is estimated using the simplified-method calculation.
(2) 
The expected life, in years, of stock options is estimated based on historical experience.
(3) 
 The risk-free interest rate is based on U.S. Treasury bills whose term is consistent with the expected life of the stock options.
(4) 
The expected volatility is estimated based on historical and current stock price data for the Company.
(5) 
 Forfeitures of options granted prior to the Company’s adoption of SFAS 123(R) on January 1, 2006 are recorded as they occur. Forfeitures of options granted since the Company’s adoption of SFAS 123(R) are estimated based on historical experience.
(6) 
The Company did not issue any options during the quarter ended September 30, 2007.

A summary of option activity as of September 30, 2008, and changes during the nine months then ended, is presented below:
 
   
Number of Options
   
Weighted-Average Exercise Price
   
Range of Exercise Prices
   
Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term (years)
   
Aggregate Intrinsic Value (thousands)
 
Outstanding at December 31, 2007
    377,133     $ 14.36     $ 5.50 - $21.85      
3.7
      2,677  
Granted
    104,000     $ 20.29     $ 13.60 - $21.00                  
Exercised
    (26,685 )   $ 11.01     $ 7.88 - $19.54                  
Forfeited
    (24,932 )   $ 17.15     $ 12.50 - $20.20                  
                                         
Outstanding at September 30, 2008
    429,516     $ 15.84     $ 5.50 - $21.85      
3.7
    $ 648  
                                         
Exercisable at September 30, 2008
    219,654     $ 12.72     $ 5.50 - $21.85      
2.2
    $ 632  
                                         
 
The weighted average grant date fair values of options granted were $7.57 per option and $9.16 per option during the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively.  Net cash proceeds from the exercise of stock options during the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007 were $293,788 and $256,753, respectively. The associated income tax benefit from stock options exercised during the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007 was $2,580 and $99,620, respectively. As of the date of exercise, the total intrinsic values of options exercised during the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007 were $200,346 and $312,204, respectively. As of September 30, 2008, there was $1.3 million of total unrecognized compensation expense related to non-vested stock options, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 2.1 years.

 
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 (5)        RESTRICTED STOCK GRANT

On July 1, 2005, the Company granted 60,000 shares of restricted Common Stock to the Company’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (the “Employee”) under the 2005 Plan. In connection with the grant of restricted stock, the Company agreed to reimburse the Employee an amount equal to the tax liability associated with the grant. Such reimbursement totaled approximately $586,000 which was recognized as an expense during the third quarter of 2005. As of December 31, 2007, all compensation expense related to the restricted stock grant had been recognized. The final 20,000 shares of restricted stock vested on January 1, 2008.  Beginning June 30, 2007, the Company reclassified deferred equity compensation to Common Stock.

A summary of the vesting status of the shares of restricted stock as of September 30, 2008, and the changes during the nine months then ended, is presented below:

     
Nine Months Ended
   
     
September 30, 2008
   
     
Number of Restricted Shares
   
Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value
   
                 
 
Non-vested at December 31, 2007
    20,000     $ 13.51    
 
Granted
    -       -    
 
Vested
    (20,000 )     13.51    
 
Forfeited
    -       -    
 
Non-vested at September 30, 2008
    -     $ -    


 (6)       DIVIDENDS

Since 2004, the Company has paid the following quarterly cash dividends.

 
Date Dividend Paid
 
Quarterly Dividend Paid per Share
 
         
 
April 9, 2004; July 9, 2004; October 8, 2004; January 14, 2005
 
   0.0375
 
 
April 8, 2005; July 8, 2005; October 14, 2005; January 13, 2006
 
0.10
 
 
April 14, 2006; July 14, 2006; October 13, 2006; January 12, 2007
 
0.13
 
 
April 13, 2007; July 13, 2007; October 12, 2007; January 11, 2008
 
0.15
 
 
April 11, 2008; July 11, 2008; October 10, 2008
 
0.17
 

The payment of dividends in the future is subject to the discretion of the Company’s Board of Directors, and various factors may prevent the Company from paying dividends or require the Company to reduce the dividends. Such factors include the Company’s financial position, capital requirements and liquidity, the existence of a stock repurchase program, any loan agreement restrictions, state corporate law restrictions, results of operations and such other factors the Company’s Board of Directors may consider relevant.

 
- 14 -

 

 (7)        LINE OF CREDIT

On April 22, 2008, the Company amended its bank line of credit (“Credit Facility”).  The amended Credit Facility extends the expiration of the credit agreement from May 31, 2009 to May 31, 2010. The Credit Facility allows the Company to borrow, on a revolving basis, an aggregate principal amount not to exceed $7.0 million at either, or a combination of, the lender’s Base Rate or at LIBOR plus a LIBOR rate margin, at the Company’s option. The lender’s Base Rate computes interest at the higher of the lender’s “prime rate” or the Federal Funds Rate plus one-half percent (0.5%).  The LIBOR option computes interest at the LIBOR rate as of the date such LIBOR rate loan was made plus a LIBOR rate margin of 1.25%.  A commitment fee of 0.25% on the average daily unused amount of the revolving loan commitment during the preceding quarter is also assessed. The Company may prepay any Base Rate loan at any time and any LIBOR rate loan upon not less than three business days prior written notice given to the lender, but the Company is responsible for any loss or cost incurred by the lender in liquidating or employing deposits required to fund or maintain the LIBOR rate loan.  At September 30, 2008, the Company had $3.8 million outstanding and $3.2 million available for borrowing under the Credit Facility. This consisted of $3.0 million outstanding under the LIBOR rate option and $814,000 outstanding under the Base Rate option. As of September 30, 2008, the LIBOR rate was 3.74% and the Base Rate was 5%.  The Credit Facility requires the Company to comply with certain covenants and financial ratios. At September 30, 2008, the Company was in full compliance with all of its covenants under the Credit Facility.
 
(8)         TERM LOAN
 
To fund its “dutch auction” tender offer, the Company entered into a $4.6 million term loan (“Term Loan”) in October 2006. Under the Term Loan, $2.3 million was borrowed at a fixed interest rate of 7.05% and the remaining $2.3 million was borrowed at a floating interest rate of LIBOR plus 1.5%. As of September 30, 2008, the rate was 4.29%. The principal amount borrowed is repaid quarterly in 20 equal payments of $230,000 plus interest beginning December 31, 2006. The Term Loan matures on September 30, 2011.  As of September 30, 2008, $1.4 million was outstanding at the fixed rate of 7.05% and $1.4 million was outstanding at LIBOR plus 1.5% floating rate.  The Term Loan requires the Company to comply with certain covenants and financial ratios. At September 30, 2008, the Company was in full compliance with all of its covenants under the Term Loan.

 (9)         OTHER
 
The Company’s retained earnings as of September 30, 2008 were approximately $7.0 million, and the Company had a working capital deficit on that date of approximately $1.6 million. During the nine months ended September 30, 2008, the Company had capital expenditures of approximately $1.0 million, paid dividends of approximately $1.0 million and purchased approximately $3.9 million of Common Stock and increased total bank debt by approximately $870,000.
 
 
- 15 -

 

ITEM 2.  MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
 
Forward-Looking Statements
 
The statements contained in this report that are not historical in nature are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, included in this report that address activities, events or developments that we expect, believe, intend or anticipate will or may occur in the future, are forward-looking statements. When used in this document, the words “estimate,” “believe,” anticipate,” “project” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which cannot be predicted with accuracy and some of which might not even be anticipated. These forward-looking statements include statements in this Item 2, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” regarding intent, belief or current expectations of the Company or its officers with respect to the development of de novo offices or acquisition of additional dental practices (“Offices”) and the successful integration of such Offices into the Company’s network, recruitment of additional dentists, funding of the Company’s expansion, capital expenditures, payment or nonpayment of dividends and cash outlays for income taxes and other purposes.

Such forward-looking statements involve certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from anticipated results. These risks and uncertainties include regulatory constraints, changes in laws or regulations concerning the practice of dentistry or dental practice management companies, the availability of suitable new markets and suitable locations within such markets, changes in the Company’s operating or expansion strategy, the general economy of the United States and the specific markets in which the Company’s Offices are located or are proposed to be located, trends in the health care, dental care and managed care industries, as well as the risk factors set forth in Item 1A. “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2007, this report, and other factors as may be identified from time to time in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission or in the Company’s press releases.
 
General
 
The following discussion relates to factors that have affected the results of operations and financial condition of the Company for the quarters and nine months ended September 30, 2007 and 2008. This information should be read in conjunction with the Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements and related notes thereto included elsewhere in this report.
 
Overview
 
The Company was formed in May 1995 and currently manages 61 Offices in Colorado, New Mexico and Arizona staffed by 81 general dentists and 34 specialists. The Company derives all of its Revenue (as defined below) from its Management Agreements with professional corporations (“P.C.s”), which conduct the practice at each Office. In addition, the Company assumes a number of responsibilities when it develops a de novo Office or acquires an existing dental practice.  These responsibilities are set forth in a Management Agreement, as described below.

The Company was formed with the intention of becoming the leading provider of business services to dental practices in Colorado. The Company’s growth and success in the Colorado market led to its expansion into the New Mexico and Arizona markets. The Company’s growth strategy is to focus on greater utilization of existing physical capacity through recruiting more dentists and support staff and through development of de novo Offices and selective acquisitions.
 
Critical Accounting Policies
 
The Company’s critical accounting policies are set forth in its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007.  There have been no changes to these policies since the filing of that report.
 
 
- 16 -

 

Components of Revenue and Expenses
 
Total dental group practice revenue (“Revenue”) represents the revenue of the Offices reported at estimated realizable amounts, received from dental plans, other third-party payors and patients for dental services rendered at the Offices.  Revenue is a non-GAAP measure.  See the reconciliation of Revenue to Net Revenue on page 18.  The Company’s Revenue is derived principally from fee-for-service revenue and managed dental care revenue. Fee-for-service revenue consists of revenue received from indemnity dental plans, preferred provider plans and direct payments by patients not covered by any third-party payment arrangement. Managed dental care revenue consists of revenue received from capitated managed dental care plans, including capitation payments and patient co-payments. Capitated managed dental care contracts are between dental benefits organizations and the P.C.s.

Net revenue represents Revenue less amounts retained by the Offices. The amounts retained by the Offices represent amounts paid as compensation to employed and contract labor dentists, dental hygienists and dental assistants. The Company’s net revenue is dependent on the Revenue of the Offices. Direct expenses consist of the expenses incurred by the Company in connection with managing the Offices, including salaries and benefits for personnel (other than dentists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants), supplies, laboratory fees, occupancy costs, advertising and marketing, depreciation and amortization and general and administrative (including insurance, management information systems and other expenses related to dental practice operations). The Company also incurs personnel and administrative expenses in connection with maintaining a corporate function that provides management, administrative, marketing, advertising, development and professional services to the Offices.

Under each of the Management Agreements, the Company manages the business and marketing aspects of the Offices, including (i) providing capital, (ii) designing and implementing marketing and advertising programs, (iii) negotiating for the purchase of supplies, (iv) staffing, (v) recruiting, (vi) training of non-dental personnel, (vii) billing and collecting certain fees for dental services provided by the Offices, (viii) arranging for certain legal and accounting services, and (ix) negotiating with third party payors. Under the Management Agreements, the P.C. is responsible for, among other things (i) supervision of all dentists, dental hygienists and dental assistants, (ii) complying with all laws, rules and regulations relating to dentists, dental hygienists and dental assistants, and (iii) maintaining proper patient records.

Under the typical Management Agreement used by the Company, the P.C. pays the Company a management fee equal to the “Adjusted Gross Center Revenue” of the P.C. less compensation paid to the dentists, dental hygienists and dental assistants employed at the Office of the P.C.  Adjusted Gross Center Revenue is comprised of all fees and charges booked each month by or on behalf of the P.C. as a result of dental services provided to patients at the Office, less any adjustments for uncollectible accounts, professional courtesies and other activities that do not generate a collectible fee.  The Company’s costs include all direct and indirect costs, overhead and expenses relating to the Company’s provision of management services at each Office under the Management Agreement, including (i) salaries, benefits and other direct costs of employees who work at the Office (other than dentists’, hygienists’ and dental assistants’ salaries), (ii) direct costs of all Company employees or consultants who provide services to or in connection with the Office, (iii) utilities, janitorial, laboratory, supplies, advertising and other expenses incurred by the Company in carrying out its obligations under the Management Agreement, (iv) depreciation expense associated with the P.C.’s assets and the amortization of intangible asset value relating to the Office, (v) interest expense on indebtedness incurred by the Company to finance any of its obligations under the Management Agreement, (vi) general and malpractice insurance expenses and dentist recruitment expenses, (vii) personal property and other taxes assessed against the P.C.’s assets used in connection with the operation of the Office, (viii) out-of-pocket expenses of the Company’s personnel related to mergers or acquisitions involving the P.C., (ix) corporate overhead charges or any other expenses of the Company, including the P.C.’s pro rata share of the expenses of the accounting and computer services provided by the Company, and (x) a collection reserve in the amount of 5.0% of Adjusted Gross Center Revenue.  As a result, substantially all costs associated with the provision of dental services at the Offices are borne by the Company, except for the compensation of the dentists, dental hygienists  and dental assistants who work at the Offices of the P.C.s. This enables the Company to manage the profitability of the Offices.  Each Management Agreement is for a term of 40 years. Further, each Management Agreement generally may be terminated by the P.C. only for cause, which includes a material default by or bankruptcy of the Company. Upon expiration or termination of a Management Agreement by either party, the P.C. must satisfy all obligations it has to the Company.
 
 
- 17 -

 

Under the Management Agreements, the Company negotiates and administers the capitated managed dental care contracts on behalf of the P.C.s.  Under a capitated managed dental care contract, the dental group practice provides dental services to the members of the dental benefits organization and receives a fixed monthly capitation payment for each plan member covered for a specific schedule of services regardless of the quantity or cost of services to the participating dental group practice obligated to provide them.  This arrangement shifts the risk of utilization of these services to the dental group practice providing the dental services.  Because the Company assumes responsibility under the Management Agreements for all aspects of the operation of the dental practices (other than the practice of dentistry) and thus bears all costs of the P.C.s associated with the provision of dental services at the Offices (other than compensation of dentists, dental hygienists and dental assistants), the risk of over-utilization of dental services at the Offices under capitated managed dental care plans is effectively shifted to the Company. In addition, dental group practices participating in a capitated managed dental care plan often receive supplemental payments for more complicated or elective procedures. In contrast, under traditional indemnity insurance arrangements, the insurance company pays whatever reasonable charges are billed by the dental group practice for the dental services provided. Under a preferred provider plan, the dental group practice is paid for dental services provided based on a fee schedule that is a discount to the usual and customary fees paid under an indemnity insurance agreement.

The Company seeks to increase its fee-for-service business by increasing the patient volume at existing Offices through effective marketing and advertising programs and by opening de novo Offices. The Company seeks to supplement this fee-for-service business with revenue from contracts with capitated managed dental care plans.  Although the Company’s fee-for-service business generally is more profitable than its capitated managed dental care business, capitated managed dental care business serves to increase facility utilization and dentist productivity.  The relative percentage of the Company’s Revenue derived from fee-for-service business and capitated managed dental care contracts varies from market to market depending on the availability of capitated managed dental care contracts in any particular market and the Company’s ability to negotiate favorable contract terms.  In addition, the profitability of managed dental care Revenue varies from market to market depending on the level of capitation payments and co-payments in proportion to the level of benefits required to be provided.
 
Results of Operations
 
For the quarter ended September 30, 2008, Revenue increased $250,000, or 1.7% to $15.0 million compared to $14.7 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2007.  For the quarter ended September 30, 2008, net revenue increased $124,000, or 1.4% to $8.8 million compared to $8.6 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2007.  This increase is attributable to an increase in net revenue from specialty dentistry of $121,000 along with a de novo Office the Company opened in May 2008 producing $38,000 in net revenue offset by a decrease in net revenue from general dentistry of $35,000.  Despite a slight increase in net revenue for the quarter ended September 30, 2008 compared to the quarter ended September 30, 2007, the Company believes it continues to experience a general weakness in the economy in its markets.

For the quarter ended September 30, 2008, net income decreased $135,000, or 21.3% to $500,000, or $.24 per share compared to $635,000, or $.28 per share for the quarter ended September 30, 2007.

For the nine months ended September 30, 2008, Revenue decreased $415,000, or .9% to $45.1 million compared to $45.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2007.  For the nine months ended September 30, 2008, net revenue decreased $614,000, or 2.3%, to $26.5 million compared to $27.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2007.  This decrease is attributable to a decrease in net revenue from general dentistry of $1.0 million offset by an increase in net revenue from specialty dentistry of $375,000 along with  a de novo Office the Company opened in May 2008 producing $37,000 in net revenue. The Company attributes the decreases in Revenue and net revenue to general weakness in the economy in the Company’s markets as reflected by a reduced number of patient procedures and in particular fewer crown and bridge procedures.

For the nine months ended September 30, 2008, net income decreased $562,000, or 27.7% to $1.5 million, or $.69 per share compared to $2.0 million or $.89 per share for the nine months ended September 30, 2007.

The Company continues to generate strong cash flow from operations.  During the nine months ended September 30,  2008, the Company purchased $3.9 million of its outstanding Common Stock, invested $1.0 million in capital expenditures, paid $1.0 million in dividends, and repaid $690,000 of the Term Loan while increasing borrowings under its Credit Facility by $1.6 million.

 
- 18 -

 

The Company’s earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization and non cash expense associated with stock-based compensation (“Adjusted EBITDA”) decreased $922,000, or 15% to $5.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 compared to $6.2 million for the corresponding nine month period in 2007. Although Adjusted EBITDA is not a GAAP measure of performance or liquidity, the Company believes that it may be useful to an investor in evaluating the Company’s ability to meet future debt service, capital expenditures and working capital requirements. However, investors should not consider these measures in isolation or as a substitute for operating income, cash flows from operating activities or any other measure for determining the Company’s operating performance or liquidity that is calculated in accordance with GAAP. In addition, because Adjusted EBITDA is not calculated in accordance with GAAP, it may not necessarily be comparable to similarly titled measures employed by other companies. A reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to net income can be made by adding depreciation and amortization expense - Offices, depreciation and amortization expense – corporate, stock-based compensation expense, interest expense, net and income tax expense to net income as in the following table.

   
Quarters
   
Nine Months
 
   
Ended September 30,
   
Ended September 30,
 
   
2007
   
2008
   
2007
   
2008
 
RECONCILIATION OF ADJUSTED EBITDA:
                       
Net income
  $ 635,040     $ 500,147     $ 2,029,753     $ 1,467,902  
Add back:
                               
   Depreciation and amortization - Offices
    609,470       623,199       1,830,548       1,826,232  
   Depreciation and amortization - Corporate
    26,785       25,519       84,887       72,173  
   Stock-based compensation expense
    183,130       186,306       535,776       544,337  
   Interest expense, net
    90,832       63,819       286,151       199,817  
   Income tax expense
    431,164       393,005       1,392,985       1,127,270  
                                 
Adjusted EBITDA
  $ 1,976,421     $ 1,791,995     $ 6,160,100     $ 5,237,731  

Revenue is total dental group practice revenue generated at the Company’s Offices from professional services provided to its patients. Amounts retained by dental Offices represents compensation expense to the dentists, hygienists and dental assistants and is subtracted from total dental group practice revenue to arrive at net revenue. The Company reports net revenue in its financial statements to comply with Emerging Issues Task Force Issue No. 97-2, Application of SFAS No. 94 (Consolidation of All Majority Owned Subsidiaries) and APB Opinion No. 16 (Business Combinations) to Physician Practice Management Entities and Certain Other Entities With Contractual Management Arrangements. Revenue is not a U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) measure. The Company discloses Revenue and believes it is useful to investors because it is a critical component for management’s evaluation of Office performance. However, investors should not consider this measure in isolation or as a substitute for net revenue, operating income, cash flows from operating activities or any other measure for determining the Company’s operating performance that is calculated in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. The following table reconciles Revenue to net revenue.
 
   
Quarters Ended
   
Nine Months Ended
 
   
September 30,
   
September 30,
 
   
2007
   
2008
   
2007
   
2008
 
                         
Total dental group practice revenue
  $ 14,726,411     $ 14,976,112     $ 45,561,904     $ 45,146,842  
Less - amounts retained by dental Offices
    (6,086,274 )     (6,212,217 )     (18,443,732 )     (18,642,723 )
                                 
Net revenue
  $ 8,640,137     $ 8,763,895     $ 27,118,172     $ 26,504,119  
 
 
- 19 -

 

The following table sets forth the percentages of net revenue represented by certain items reflected in the Company’s condensed consolidated statements of income. The information contained in the following table represents the historical results of the Company. The information that follows should be read in conjunction with the Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements and related notes thereto contained elsewhere in this report.
 
BIRNER DENTAL MANAGEMENT SERVICES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
 
(UNAUDITED)
 
   
   
Quarters Ended
   
Nine Months Ended
 
   
September 30,
   
September 30,
 
   
2007
   
2008
   
2007
   
2008
 
                         
NET REVENUE:
    100.0 %     100.0 %     100.0 %     100.0 %
                                 
DIRECT EXPENSES:
                               
Clinical salaries and benefits
    26.3 %     26.8 %     26.2 %     28.3 %
Dental supplies
    7.0 %     7.2 %     6.5 %     7.0 %
Laboratory fees
    7.3 %     7.9 %     7.4 %     7.9 %
Occupancy
    13.6 %     13.8 %     12.7 %     13.6 %
Advertising and marketing
    1.7 %     1.2 %     2.1 %     1.3 %
Depreciation and amortization
    7.1 %     7.1 %     6.8 %     6.9 %
General and administrative
    13.0 %     13.6 %     12.6 %     13.7 %
      76.0 %     77.7 %     74.2 %     78.6 %
                                 
Contribution from dental offices
    24.0 %     22.3 %     25.8 %     21.4 %
                                 
CORPORATE EXPENSES:
                               
General and administrative
    10.3 %     11.1 %     11.8 %     10.6 %
Depreciation and amortization
    0.3 %     0.3 %     0.3 %     0.3 %
                                 
Operating income
    13.4 %     10.9 %     13.7 %     10.5 %
                                 
Interest expense
    1.1 %     0.7 %     1.1 %     0.8 %
                                 
Income before income taxes
    12.3 %     10.2 %     12.6 %     9.8 %
Income tax expense
    5.0 %     4.5 %     5.1 %     4.3 %
                                 
Net income
    7.3 %     5.7 %     7.5 %     5.5 %
 
 
- 20 -

 

Quarter Ended September 30, 2008 Compared to Quarter Ended September 30, 2007:
 
Net revenue. For the quarter ended September 30, 2008, net revenue increased $124,000, or 1.4%, to $8.8 million compared to $8.6 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2007. This increase is attributable to an increase in same store net revenue from specialty dentistry of $121,000 offset by a decrease in same store net revenue from general dentistry of $35,000.  A de novo Office that opened in May 2008 contributed $38,000 of additional net revenue.

Clinical salaries and benefits. For the quarter ended September 30, 2008, clinical salaries and benefits increased $80,000, or 3.5%, to $2.4 million compared to $2.3 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2007. This increase was primarily related to additional employees at the de novo Office opened in May 2008, health insurance premiums and annual wage increases that became effective February 1, 2008.  As a percentage of net revenue, clinical salaries and benefits increased to 26.8% for the quarter ended September 30, 2008 compared to 26.3 % for the quarter ended September 30, 2007.
 
Dental supplies. For the quarter ended September 30, 2008, dental supplies increased to $627,000 compared to $609,000 for the quarter ended September 30, 2007, an increase of $18,000 or 3.0%. This increase was primarily the result of the initial dental supply inventory purchased at the de novo Office that opened in May 2008.  As a percentage of net revenue, dental supplies increased to 7.2% for the quarter ended September 30, 2008 compared to 7.0% for the quarter ended September 30, 2007.
 
Laboratory fees. For the quarter ended September 30, 2008, laboratory fees increased to $694,000 compared to $629,000 for the quarter ended September 30, 2007, an increase of $65,000 or 10.3%. This increase is primarily related to overall increased material cost for crowns and bridges and an increased number of implant procedures, which carry an increased laboratory fee.  As a percentage of net revenue, laboratory fees increased to 7.9% for the quarter ended September 30, 2008 compared to 7.3% for the quarter ended September 30, 2007.
 
Occupancy. For the quarter ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, occupancy expense remained constant at $1.2 million.   As a percentage of net revenue, occupancy expense increased to 13.8% for the quarter ended September 30, 2008 compared to 13.6% for the quarter ended September 30, 2007.
 
Advertising and marketing. For the quarter ended September 30, 2008, advertising and marketing expense decreased to $105,000 compared to $143,000 for the quarter ended September 30, 2007, a decrease of $38,000 or 26.4%.  This decrease is attributable to the Company’s television advertising campaign in the Denver, Colorado market in the quarter ending September 30, 2007 that was not conducted in the quarter ended September 30, 2008. As a percentage of net revenue, advertising and marketing expense decreased to 1.2% for the quarter ended September 30, 2008 compared to 1.7% for the quarter ended September 30, 2007.
 
Depreciation and amortization-Offices. For the quarter ended September 30, 2008, depreciation and amortization expenses attributable to the Offices increased to $623,000 compared to $609,000 for the quarter ended September 30, 2007, an increase of $14,000 or 2.3%. The increase in the Company’s depreciable asset base is a result of purchasing tenant improvements and new equipment for one de novo Office and the purchase of a new time collection system for payroll. As a percentage of net revenue, depreciation and amortization expenses attributable to the Offices remained constant at 7.1% for the quarter ended September 30, 2008 and 2007.

General and administrative-Offices. For the quarter ended September 30, 2008, general and administrative expenses attributable to the Offices increased to $1.2 million compared to $1.1 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2007, an increase of $66,000 or 5.9%.  This increase is primarily related to increased bad debt expense, office supplies, professional fees and maintenance along with expenses from the de novo Office that opened in May 2008.  As a percentage of net revenue, general and administrative expenses increased to 13.6% for the quarter ended September 30, 2008 compared to 13.0% for the quarter ended September 30, 2007.
 
Contribution from dental Offices.   As a result of the above, contribution from dental Offices decreased $120,000, or 5.8%, to $2.0 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2008 compared to $2.1 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2007. As a percentage of net revenue, contribution from dental Offices decreased to 22.3% for the quarter ended September 30, 2008 compared to 24.0% for the quarter ended September 30, 2007.
 
Corporate expenses - general and administrative. For the quarter ended September 30, 2008, corporate expenses – general and administrative increased to $976,000 compared to $894,000 for the quarter ended September 30, 2007, an increase of $82,000 or 9.1%.  This increase is primarily related to an increase of $120,000 in executive bonuses offset by a decrease in professional fees of $32,000. As a percentage of net revenue, corporate expenses - general and administrative increased to 11.1% for the quarter ended September 30, 2008 compared to 10.3% for the quarter ended September 30, 2007.

 
- 21 -

 
 
Corporate expenses - depreciation and amortization. For the quarter ended September 30, 2008, corporate expenses - depreciation and amortization decreased to $26,000 compared to $27,000 for the quarter ended September 30, 2007, a decrease of $1,000 or 4.7%. The decrease is related to the decrease in the Company’s depreciable asset base. As a percentage of net revenue, corporate expenses – depreciation and amortization remained constant at 0.3% for the quarters ended September 30, 2008 and 2007.
 
Operating income.   As a result of the matters discussed above, the Company’s operating income decreased by $201,000, or 17.3% to $957,000 for the quarter ended September 30, 2008 compared to $1.2 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2007.  As a percentage of net revenue, operating income decreased to 10.9% for the quarter ended September 30, 2008 compared to 13.4% for the quarter ended September 30, 2007.
 
Interest expense. For the quarter ended September 30, 2008, interest expense decreased to $64,000 compared to $91,000 for the quarter ended September 30, 2007, a decrease of $27,000 or 29.7%. This decrease in interest expense is attributable to a reduction in the principal amount of the Term Loan combined with reduced interest rates. As a percentage of net revenue, interest expense decreased to 0.7% for the quarter ended September 30, 2008 compared to 1.1% for the quarter ended September 30, 2007.
 
Net income.   As a result of the above, the Company reported net income of $500,000 for the quarter ended September 30, 2008 compared to net income of $635,000 for the quarter ended September 30, 2007, a decrease of $135,000 or 21.3%. Net income for the quarter ended September 30, 2008 was net of income tax expense of $393,000, while net income for the quarter ended September 30, 2007 was net of income tax expense of $431,000. As a percentage of net revenue, net income decreased to 5.7% for the quarter ended September 30, 2008 compared to 7.3% for the quarter ended September 30, 2007.
 
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2008 Compared to Nine Months Ended September 30, 2007:
 
Net revenue. For the nine months ended September 30, 2008, net revenue decreased $614,000, or 2.3%, to $26.5 million compared to $27.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2007. This decrease is attributable to a decrease in same store net revenue from general dentistry of $1.0 million offset by an increase in same store net revenue from specialty dentistry of $375,000.  A de novo Office that opened in May 2008 contributed $37,000 of additional net revenue.

Clinical salaries and benefits. For the nine months ended September 30, 2008, clinical salaries and benefits increased $403,000, or 5.7%, to $7.5 million compared to $7.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2007. This increase was primarily related to increased costs related to employee benefits including accrued vacation, health insurance premiums and Company contribution to the 401(k) employee savings plan.  Wages for support staff also increased, partially due to annual wage increases that became effective February 1, 2008 along with the additional costs related to the de novo Office that opened in May 2008 . As a percentage of net revenue, clinical salaries and benefits increased to 28.3% for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 compared to 26.2% for the nine months ended September 30, 2007.
 
Dental supplies. For the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, dental supplies remained constant at $1.8 million.  As a percentage of net revenue, dental supplies increased to 7.0% for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 compared to 6.5% for the nine months ended September 30, 2007.
 
Laboratory fees. For the nine months ended September 30, 2008, laboratory fees increased $87,000 or 4.4% to $2.1 million compared to $2.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2007.  This increase is primarily related to overall increased material cost for crowns and bridges and an increased number of implant procedures,  which carry an increased laboratory fee.  As a percentage of net revenue, laboratory fees increased to 7.9% for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 compared to 7.4% for the nine months ended September 30, 2007.
 
Occupancy. For the nine months ended September 30, 2008, occupancy expense increased $153,000 or 4.5% to $3.6 million compared to $3.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2007.  This increase was primarily related to the  de novo Office that opened May 2008 and increased rental payments resulting from the renewal of Office leases at current market rates for Offices whose leases expired subsequent to September 30, 2007.  As a percentage of net revenue, occupancy expense increased to 13.6% for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 compared to 12.7% for the nine months ended September 30, 2007.
 
 
- 22 -

 

Advertising and marketing. For the nine months ended September 30, 2008, advertising and marketing expense decreased to $332,000 compared to $559,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2007, a decrease of $227,000 or 40.7%.  This decrease is attributable to the Company’s television advertising campaign in the Denver, Colorado market in the nine months ending September 30, 2007 that was not conducted in the nine months ending September 30, 2008. As a percentage of net revenue, advertising and marketing expense decreased to 1.3% for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 compared to 2.1% for the nine months ended September 30, 2007.
 
Depreciation and amortization-Offices. For the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, depreciation and amortization expenses attributable to the Offices remained constant at $1.8 million.  As a percentage of net revenue, depreciation and amortization expenses attributable to the Offices increased to 6.9% for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 compared to 6.8% for the nine months ended September 30, 2007.

General and administrative-Offices. For the nine months ended September 30, 2008, general and administrative expenses attributable to the Offices increased to $3.6 million compared to $3.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2007, an increase of $208,000 or 6.1%. This increase is primarily related to increased bad dept expense, office supplies, equipment maintenance, professional fees and travel along with the expenses related to the de novo Office opened in May 2008 partially offset by decreased malpractice insurance and recruiting costs.  As a percentage of net revenue, general and administrative expenses attributable to the Offices increased to 13.7% for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 compared to 12.6% for the nine months ended September 30, 2007.
 
Contribution from dental Offices.   As a result of the above, contribution from dental Offices decreased $1.3 million, or 18.8%, to $5.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 compared to $7.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2007. As a percentage of net revenue, contribution from dental Offices decreased to 21.4% for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 compared to 25.8% for the nine months ended September 30, 2007.
 
Corporate expenses - general and administrative. For the nine months ended September 30, 2008, corporate expenses – general and administrative decreased to $2.8 million compared to $3.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2007, a decrease of $389,000 or 12.2%.  This decrease is primarily related to a decrease of $372,000 in executive bonuses.  As a percentage of net revenue, corporate expenses - general and administrative decreased to 10.6% for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 compared to 11.8% for the nine months ended September 30, 2007.
 
Corporate expenses - depreciation and amortization. For the nine months ended September 30, 2008, corporate expenses - depreciation and amortization decreased to $72,000 compared to $85,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2007, a decrease of $13,000 or 15.0%. The decrease is related to the decrease in the Company’s depreciable asset base. As a percentage of net revenue, corporate expenses – depreciation and amortization remained constant at 0.3% for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007.
 
Operating income.   As a result of the matters discussed above, the Company’s operating income decreased to $2.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 compared to $3.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2007, a decrease of $914,000 or 24.6%. As a percentage of net revenue, operating income decreased to 10.5% for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 compared to 13.7% for the nine months ended September 30, 2007.
 
Interest expense. For the nine months ended September 30, 2008, interest expense decreased to $200,000 compared to $286,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2007, a decrease of $86,000, or 30.2%. This decrease in interest expense is attributable to the reduction in the principal amount of the Term Loan combined with reduced interest rates. As a percentage of net revenue, interest expense decreased to 0.8% for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 compared to 1.1% for the nine months ended September 30, 2007.
 
Net income.   As a result of the above, the Company reported net income of $1.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 compared to net income of $2.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2007, a decrease of $562,000 or 27.7%.  Net income for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 was net of income tax expense of $1.1 million, while net income for the nine months ended September 30, 2007 was net of income tax expense of $1.4 million. As a percentage of net revenue, net income decreased to 5.5% for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 compared to 7.5% for the nine months ended September 30, 2007.
 
 
- 23 -

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources
 
The Company finances its operations and growth through a combination of cash provided by operating activities and the Credit Facility.  As of September 30, 2008, the Company had a working capital deficit of approximately $1.6 million and retained earnings of $7.0 million.
 
Net cash provided by operating activities was approximately $4.5 million and $4.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively.  During the nine months ended September 30, 2008, excluding net income and after adding back non-cash items, the Company’s cash provided by operating activities consisted primarily of an increase in accounts payable and accrued expenses of approximately $306,000 and an increase in income taxes payable of approximately $430,000, offset by an increase in accounts receivable of $822,000 and a decrease in prepaid expenses and other assets of approximately $79,000.  During the 2007 period, excluding net income and after adding back non-cash items, the Company’s cash provided by operating activities consisted primarily of an increase in accounts payable and accrued expenses of approximately $261,000, an increase in income taxes payable of approximately $473,000 and a decrease of prepaid expenses and other assets of approximately $92,000, offset by an increase in accounts receivable of approximately $860,000.
 
Net cash used in investing activities was approximately $1.0 million and $528,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively. During the nine months ended September 30, 2008, the Company invested approximately $1.0 million in capital expenditures, which includes $163,000 to upgrade the Company’s payroll time collection system, $157,000 to remodel an Office and $368,000 in the development of a de novo Office. For the nine months ended September 30, 2007, the Company invested approximately $528,000 in the purchase of additional equipment.
 
Net cash used in financing activities was approximately $3.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and $4.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2007. During the nine months ended September 30, 2008, net cash used in financing activities was comprised of approximately $3.9 million used in the purchase and retirement of Common Stock, approximately $1.0 million for the payment of dividends and approximately $690,000 for the repayment of the Term Loan, partially offset by an increase of approximately $1.6 million on the Credit Facility and approximately $294,000 in proceeds from the exercise of Common Stock options.  During the nine months ended September 30, 2007, net cash used in financing activities was comprised of approximately $2.8 million used in the purchase and retirement of Common Stock, approximately $912,000 for the payment of dividends, approximately $665,000 used to pay down the Credit Facility and approximately $494,000 for the repayment of long-term debt, partially offset by approximately $257,000 in proceeds from the exercise of Common Stock options and $100,000 in tax benefit of Common Stock options exercised.
 
On April 22, 2008, the Company amended the Credit Facility.  The amended Credit Facility extends the expiration of the credit agreement from May 31, 2009 to May 31, 2010. The Credit Facility allows the Company to borrow, on a revolving basis, an aggregate principal amount not to exceed $7.0 million at either, or a combination of, the lender’s Base Rate or at LIBOR plus a LIBOR rate margin, at the Company’s option. The lender’s Base Rate computes interest at the higher of the lender’s “prime rate” or the Federal Funds Rate plus one-half percent (0.5%).  The LIBOR option computes interest at the LIBOR rate as of the date such LIBOR Rate loan was made plus a LIBOR rate margin of 1.25%.  A commitment fee of 0.25% on the average daily unused amount of the revolving loan commitment during the preceding quarter is also assessed. The Company may prepay any Base Rate loan at any time and any LIBOR rate loan upon not less than three business days prior written notice given to the lender, but the Company is responsible for any loss or cost incurred by the lender in liquidating or employing deposits required to fund or maintain the LIBOR rate loan.  At September 30, 2008, the Company had $3.8 million outstanding and $3.2 million available for borrowing under the Credit Facility. This consisted of $3.0 million outstanding under the LIBOR rate option and $814,000 outstanding under the Base Rate option.  As of September 30, 2008, the LIBOR rate was 3.74% and the Base Rate was 5%.  As of October 31, 2008, the LIBOR rate was 5.34%.  The Credit Facility requires the Company to comply with certain covenants and financial ratios. At September 30, 2008, the Company was in full compliance with all of its covenants under the Credit Facility.
 
On October 5, 2006, the Company entered into a $4.6 million Term Loan to finance a “dutch auction” tender offer for shares of its Common Stock. Under the Term Loan, $2.3 million is borrowed at a fixed interest rate of 7.05% and the remaining $2.3 million is borrowed at a floating interest rate of LIBOR plus 1.5%. The $2.3 million borrowed at a fixed rate was achieved by the Company by entering into a fixed for floating interest rate swap and the Company designates such swap as a cash flow hedge under SFAS No. 133. The principal amount borrowed will be paid quarterly in 20 equal payments of approximately $230,000 plus interest beginning December 31, 2007. The Term Loan expires September 30, 2011. The Term Loan requires the Company to comply with certain covenants and financial ratios. At September 30, 2008, the Company was in full compliance with all of its covenants under the Term Loan.

 
- 24 -

 
 
As of September 30, 2008, the Company had the following debt and lease obligations:
 
         
Payments due by Period
 
   
Total
   
Less than 1 year
   
1-3 years
   
3-5 years
   
More than 5 years
 
                               
Long-term debt obligations
  $ 6,574,158     $ 920,000     $ 5,654,158     $ -     $ -  
Operating lease obligations
    9,312,627       3,110,533       4,424,425       1,733,235       44,434  
Total
  $ 15,886,785     $ 4,030,533     $ 10,078,583     $ 1,733,235     $ 44,434  

The Company from time to time may purchase its Common Stock on the open market or in negotiated transactions. During the quarter ended September 30, 2008, the Company, in five separate transactions, purchased 218,080 shares of its Common Stock for total consideration of approximately $3.2 million at prices ranging from $13.53 to $15.78.  On January 23, 2008, the Company announced that the Board of Directors had approved an increase in the authorized amount up to $1 million of stock repurchases.  On May 1, 2008, the Company’s Board of Directors approved up to $2 million of stock repurchases.  On July 30, 2008, the Board of Directors approved an additional $1 million of stock repurchases.  On August 12, 2008, the Board of Directors approved an increase in the authorized amount of up to $2 million of stock repurchases.  The remaining authorized amount available for stock repurchases is approximately $1.4 million as of September 30, 2008.  There is no expiration date on these plans. Such purchases may be made from time to time as the Company’s management deems appropriate.

The Company believes that cash generated from operations and borrowings under its Credit Facility will be sufficient to fund its anticipated working capital needs, capital expenditures and dividend payments for at least the next 12 months. In order to meet its long-term liquidity needs, the Company may issue additional equity and debt securities, subject to market and other conditions. There can be no assurance that such additional financing will be available on terms acceptable to the Company. The failure to obtain the funds necessary to finance its future cash requirements could adversely affect the Company’s ability to pursue its strategy and could negatively affect its operations in future periods.
 
ITEM 3.  QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
 
Market risk represents the risk of loss that may impact the financial position, results of operations or cash flows of the Company due to adverse changes in financial and commodity market prices and rates. Historically, the Company has not used derivative instruments or engaged in hedging activities. On October 12, 2006, the Company entered into a fixed-for-floating interest rate swap transaction on the Term Loan and designated it as a cash flow hedge under SFAS No. 133.  In September 2008, the Company recognized, on its balance sheet, approximately $5,000 of other comprehensive income to mark up the value of the cash flow hedge net of taxes.  As required by SFAS 157, the Company calculated the value of the cash flow hedge using Level II inputs.
 
Interest Rate Risk.   The interest payable on the Credit Facility and a portion of the Term Loan is variable based on floating interest rates (either LIBOR or Base Rate) and, therefore, is affected by changes in market interest rates. At September 30, 2008, the variable portion outstanding under the Term Loan was $1.4 million (at a LIBOR rate of 4.3%) and $3.8 million was outstanding under the Credit Facility with either LIBOR (3.74%) or Base Rate (5.0%).  The Company may repay the Credit Facility and Term Loan balances in full at any time without penalty.  The Company does not believe that any reasonably possible near-term changes in interest rates would result in a material effect on future earnings, fair values or cash flows of the Company.  The Company estimates that a 1.0% increase in the interest rate on the Credit Facility and Term Loan would have resulted in additional interest expense of approximately $30,000 for the nine months ended September 30, 2008.

 
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ITEM 4.  CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
 
Under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, the Company evaluated the design and operation of its disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, or the “Exchange Act”) as of September 30, 2008.  On the basis of this review, the Company’s management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures are designed, and are effective, to give reasonable assurance that the information required to be disclosed by the Company in reports that it files under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the rules and forms of the Securities and Exchange Commission and to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, in a manner  that allows timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

There were no changes in the Company’s internal controls over financial reporting that occurred in the quarter ended September 30, 2008 that materially affected, or were reasonably likely to materially affect, its internal control over financial reporting.


PART II.  OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 1A.  Risk Factors

As of the date of this filing, other than as set forth below, there have been no material changes from the risk factors previously disclosed in “Risk Factors” in Item 1A of the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007.  An investment in the Company’s Common Stock involves various risks.  When considering an investment in the Company, investors should carefully consider all of the risk factors described in the 2007 form 10-K and the risk factors below.  There may be additional matters about which the Company is currently unaware or that the Company currently considers immaterial.  All of these could adversely affect the Company’s business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows and, thus, the value of an investment in the Company.
 
The Company is reliant on a single bank for its line of credit.
 
The Company’s $7.0 million Credit Facility is with a single bank.  Although the Company has utilized this bank for its financing needs for over ten years, there can be no assurances that due to the current environment this bank will not change the terms of the Credit Facility or cease to continue to extend credit to the Company.
 
Various factors outside of the Company’s control may affect the Company’s stock price and results of operations.
 
The market price of the Common Stock could be subject to wide fluctuations in response to quarterly variations in operating results of the Company or its competitors, changes in earnings estimates by analysts, developments in the industry or changes in general economic conditions.  In addition, the recent turmoil in the financial markets may have an adverse effect on consumer spending patterns.  A recessionary economic cycle, higher levels of unemployment, higher consumer debt levels, higher tax rates and other changes in tax laws or other economic factors could adversely affect consumer demand for the Company's services and in particular discretionary or elective dental services, which could adversely affect the Company’s results of operations.  In addition, current or worsening economic conditions could adversely affect the Company’s collection of accounts receivable.
 
 
ITEM 2.  UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS
 
The following chart provides information regarding Common Stock purchased by the Company during the period July 1, 2008 through September 30, 2008.

 
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Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
                       
             Period
 
Total Number Of Shares Purchased
   
Average Price Paid per Share
   
Total Number Of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs
   
Approximate Dollar Value Of Shares That May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs
 
July 1, 2008 through July  31, 2008
    89,201     $ 15.78       89,201     $ 525,524  
August 1, 2008 through August 31, 2008
    82,473       14.50       82,473     $ 329,666  
September 1, 2008 through September 30, 2008
    46,406       13.54       46,406     $ 1,371,541  
Total
    218,080     $ 14.82       218,080          

All purchases were made pursuant to plans that were approved by the Board of Directors. Except for the purchase of 82,473 shares in August 2008, which was a private transaction, all purchases were made on the open market.  On January 23, 2008, the Board of Directors authorized the Company to make available open market purchases of its Common Stock of up to $1 million. On May 1, 2008, the Company’s Board of Directors approved up to $2 million of stock repurchases.   On July 30, 2008, the Board of Directors approved an additional $1 million of stock repurchases.  On August 12, 2008, the Board of Directors approved up to $2 million of stock repurchases.  There is no expiration date on these plans. Purchases under these plans may be made from time to time, as the Company’s management deems appropriate.

 
ITEM 6.   EXHIBITS
 
Exhibit
Number  
 
Description of Document
 
  3.1
Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 and 3.2 to the Company’s Registration Statement of Form S-1 (SEC File No. 333-36391), as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 25, 1997.

  3.2
Amended and Restated Bylaws, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.3 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (SEC File No. 333-36391), as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 25, 1997.

  4.1
Reference is made to Exhibits 3.1 and 3.2.

  4.2
Specimen Stock Certificate, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (SEC File No. 333-36391), as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 25, 1997.
 
  3.11
Rule 13a-14(a) Certification of the Chief Executive Officer.
 
  3.12
Rule 13a-14(a) Certification of the Chief Financial Officer.
 
  3.12
 Section 1350 Certifications of the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer.

 
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SIGNATURES
 
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
 
  BIRNER DENTAL MANAGEMENT SERVICES, INC  
       
Date:  November 13, 2008 
By: 
/s/ Frederic W.J. Birner  
 
 Name: 
 Frederic W.J. Birner  
 
 Title:  
Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer)
 
       
 
   
       
Date:  November 13, 2008 
By: 
/s/ Dennis N. Genty  
 
 Name: 
 Dennis N. Genty  
 
 Title:  
Chief Financial Officer, Secretary, and Treasurer
(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)
 
       
 
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