Is a Phablet in Your Future?

It seems that technology can suffer from the same problem The Who ran into... you know "Meet the New Boss, Same as the Old Boss".

A while back, I posted a photo featuring some of the phones from my past...

Interestingly enough, the size of the phones grew somewhat & then the form factor seemed to freeze for a few models.  What *did* change was the screen size.  As you can see from the picture above, by the time we get to the Samsung model on the right, the entire device was one big screen with the keyboard available as a "slider" that came out from under the screen.  That model also had a "soft keyboard" that utilized the screen, most people I knew that had that model (the *original* Samsung Galaxy One) preferred the slide-out keyboard because they could type AND get full utilization of the screen.

3 weeks ago I upgraded to an iPhone 6 Plus.  My main reason?  Pure and simple... screen real estate.  As someone who spends a fair amount of time on the road, I need a screen to work, reschedule flights, etc.  I could have purchased a new iPad with a data connection, but that is more money per month for another data plan.  No, in my case it was just easier to keep my existing Sprint plan and get the bigger screen.

I'm already finding that I reach for my iPad less than I used to.  When I first got the 6 Plus, it felt weird in my hand and also weird against my ear.  I fixed the ear problem by either the headset or a bluetooth earbud.  The weight?  I've gotten used to it.

Is it still a huge phone?  Why yes, yes it is.  However, for what I need, it works.

2 years ago, I scoffed at the idea  of the Phablet, now I own one.  Meet the New Boss, Same as the Old Boss..."

A couple of years ago, I was honored to be given a chance to speak at the Dentrix Business of Dentistry Conference.

I had never had a chance to attend one of the events before and I was blown away at the tremendous amount of information provided as well as the fun and relaxing attitude of the overall meeting.  If you are a Dentrix office, you really owe it to yourself and your team to make it to this year's meeting in Orlando.

One of the quickest ways to grow profits is to teach your team business management skills. Teams that learn steps to improve productivity, measure performance and speed up workflow can help practices consistently improve profitability.

One of the best ways to help your team acquire these skills is at the Dentrix Business of Dentistry Conference. This Henry Schein conference is October 7-10 in sunny Orlando and will again provide training on practice management skills, Dentrix software use, digital dentistry and clinical techniques for the dentist.

At the conference, experts delivering more than 70 courses will teach your team to:

• Implement and manage key performance indicators (KPIs) to increase profits
• Increase production and case acceptance
• Track and measure practice productivity
• Use Dentrix’s advanced features for improving management
• And much more!!!

If you register by April 30^th, you can save $400. And each team member who attends is only $695.

This is a great way to reward your team by giving them training in a fun environment they will use to improve your practice when they return.

Visit www.BusinessofDentistry.com for more information and to register.

DentalEZ® Introduces the Amalgam HoG Powered by Apavia®

Amalgam separators are becoming more and more common in dentistry.  For those of you not familiar with them, it is a device that basically serves as a filtration system to remove amalgam (silver filling) debris and trap it before it goes down the drain.  This helps eliminate the amalgam dust & sludge from the environment.

Many states now require them.  Missouri, where I practice, does not, but we've been using one for several years now simply because we consider it the right thing to do for the environment.

Now comes an announcement from DentalEZ about a new separator... read on for all the info.

A Fresh Perspective in Filtration Technology

Malvern, PA (March 25, 2015) – DentalEZ^®, a supplier of integrated products and services for dental health professionals worldwide, is pleased to introduce the new RAMVAC^® Amalgam HoG, a high efficiency filtration system designed to safely and effectively remove harmful waste in an environmentally responsible manner. Powered by Apavia^®, the Amalgam HoG employs advanced vacuum technology and has an industry-leading retention rate of 99.7%. 

The Amalgam HoG provides dental practices and patients with economical and environmentally conscious water purification. The Amalgam HoG is equipped with an advanced cyclonic filtration system that efficiently and effectively separates and removes amalgam, mercury, alloy, and other unsafe contaminants from the waterline, protecting and extending the lifespan of the vacuum pump and virtually eliminating harmful waste into the environment.  

The Amalgam HoG has a large tank capacity and is durably designed to safely and reliably service up to 10 water systems at one time. The large replacement canisters reduce the frequency of necessary change outs and are universally molded with industry-standard connections that fit all existing installed units. The simple design allows canisters to be removed and replaced without tools. Moreover, the Amalgam HoG has a clear exterior, providing users with visual fill level inspection and making replacement easily identifiable. All replacement canisters are environmentally safe and recyclable.

The Amalgam HoG provides ease of maintenance with no traps to deal with and, depending on the plumbing system, allows ambidextrous installation and replacement. The patented no-tool necessary housing allows for easy access to the filter for extremely simple replacements. Amalgam HoG filters come with a unique handle for lightweight and easy removal, a bag for proper disposal, and a double O-ring bottom canister exchange.

In addition, the Amalgam HoG complies with all existing and pending state regulations. The Amalgam HoG meets all proposed Environmental Protection Agency regulations and is compatible with all new standards, preparing users with early compliance. The Amalgam HoG is NSF certified ISO 11143:2008, and also complies with the American Dental Association’s Best Management Practices (BMPs) that protect the dentist, staff, and patient. 

For more information about the Amalgam HoG, please visit www.dentalez.com.  

TS150 Mill Evaluation Proceeding...

Our evaluation of the TS150 mill is continuing on schedule.

At this point in the eval, I can state that the machine is performing as advertised/expected.

The unit was designed and created by Glidewell Lab & is being sold through equipment distributors.  The system that we are evaluating is sold by Benco.

The mill will create crowns, inlays, and onlays.  To this point in the eval we have noted exceptional marginal integrity, great consistent contacts, and very nice occlusal anatomy.

The most difficult part of the process has been the interface of the device between our iTero and the computer we are using to run the design software.  That problem is not related to the mill or the design computer, but our iTero.  I'm confident as more and more iTero users begin to do in office milling, this problem will be handled by the iTero software folks, but to this point, that has been the most challenging aspect of the process.  Let me state for clarity, that there are not a lot of iTero users that are currently interfacing with the TS150 and that accounts for the glitches we've experienced.  After all, that sort of thing is why we do beta testing in the first place.  Hopefully my feedback to the companies involved will help expedite those of you who follow the same path...

I've been contacted by some of you great people who are regular readers wondering how the eval was going, hence this mid-evaluation post.

At this point, I've been very impressed and would recommend the TS150 unit with no hesitations.  When we are totally done with our beta evaluation, I'll provide a much more detailed final post.

In the meantime, our work continues.  If you would like more info, feel free to email, contact me via Twitter, or just leave a comment.

As always, thanks for reading.  My goal is to help you readers and as a result of that, to help your patients.

Asia's deadly secret: The scourge of the betel nut

Hey, there's a pattern developing here.  2 days in a row of a post from the BBC.

Seriously though, this one is really important.  One of my great passions is helping prevent oral cancer.  Betel nut chewing in Asia is a huge factor in developing this terrible disease.

Click here to read the BBC story.  It is sobering...

3D Printing is Evolving & Coming to the Medical Arena

A short post today because the real info is in the article I am linking to.

Imagine being able to print medical devices in the OR as the patient is operated on.  Next imagine printing teeth as the patient waits.

Read here from the BBC for all the details...

DentalEZ® Introduces a Refreshed Brand Identity

New Look Unveiled During the 2015 Chicago Midwinter Dental Meeting 

Malvern, PA (March 18, 2015) – DentalEZ^®, a supplier of integrated products and services for dental health professionals worldwide, is pleased to introduce various updates to its classic DentalEZ brand. With an official tagline of “Integrated Solutions,” and now simply referred to as “DentalEZ,” the Company unveiled some of its recent rebranding efforts such as a new color palette, logo, and a freshly designed exhibit booth at this year’s Chicago Midwinter Dental Meeting.  

With the acquisition of various new companies and products throughout the years, DentalEZ has established a diverse yet very broad assortment of products. The company’s current rebranding efforts will ensure that its entire portfolio is streamlined in order to tell a clear story about its ever-growing product offerings and organization. 

Throughout 2015, DentalEZ will begin to slowly phase out the use of individual brand logos and introduce a single all-encompassing DentalEZ logo. All DentalEZ product categories will also be more consistent with the new DentalEZ name and tagline:

Columbia Dentoform^® Teaching Solutions

DentalEZ^® Equipment Solutions

NevinLabs^™ Workstation Solutions

RAMVAC^® Utility Solutions

StarDental^® Instrument Solutions

“With this more unified and simplistic approach to branding, we plan to increase clarity of what our company offerings are, while raising awareness and understanding across all product lines of DentalEZ and our many ‘Integrated Solutions,’” remarked Lisa Lee, Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “In the next year we will have gradual updates of all materials, websites, and signage. We truly look forward to an exciting new era here at DentalEZ.”

For more information about DentalEZ’s full line of integrated products, please visit www.dentalez.com

ALIGN TECHNOLOGY AND SIRONA ANNOUNCE NEW WORKFLOW INTEGRATION INCLUDING INVISALIGN INTEROPERABILITY WITH CEREC OMNICAM

For those of you who are Invisalign providers and own a CEREC system instead of an iTero, here is good news from the IDS meeting last week in Germany...

COLOGNE, GERMANY and SAN JOSE, CA -- (Marketwired) -- 03/10/15 -- Align Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ: ALGN) today announced that Sirona's CEREC Omnicam can be used for Invisalign® case submissions, which require an intraoral scanner that can readily capture a full arch digital impression. This enables Invisalign providers with a CEREC Omnicam intraoral camera and the new CEREC Ortho Software 1.1 to submit a digital impression in place of a traditional PVS impression as part of the Invisalign case submission process. This new CEREC Ortho software is expected to be rolled out in the summer of 2015.

The CEREC Omnicam is the second third-party scanner that has been qualified for use with Invisalign treatment. Align Technology's own iTero® scanner was qualified for Invisalign case submission in December 2011. Align Technology supports an open systems approach to digital impressions and continues to work with intraoral scanning companies interested in developing interoperability and chair-side applications for use with Invisalign treatment.

CEREC Omnicam customers who are interested in becoming an Invisalign trained provider can find further information on training courses athttp://provider.invisalign.com for North America and www.invisalign.eu for International regions.

The Companies also announced an agreement to support iTero laboratory customers and enable them to join a direct all-digital workflow with Sirona's inLab software. With the release of inLab 15.0, scheduled for later in the year, technicians can directly import iTero scan data into inLab.

"We are excited to establish this important collaboration with Sirona to provide Invisalign and iTero customers with new options for their digital workflows," said Tim Mack, Align Technology vice president, business development. "Our commitment to an open systems approach and adding the industry leader gives our customers more flexibility in treating their patients."

Sirona customers should contact their sales representative for more information about CEREC Omnicam connectivity for Invisalign case submission and expected availability of the new CEREC Ortho software and inLab software 15.0.

3DSystems Can Help Dental Patients... and They Can Also Help Dogs

We are rapidly approaching being able to print dental prosthetics on a regular basis.  It's already being done and it is going to continue to go more and more mainstream.  Just follow the link above and see what's going on in this exciting area of dentistry.

However, today's post is an amazing feel good story of Derby the dog.  He was born with deformed front legs and yet 3DSystems printed prosthetic limbs that let's him run almost like a normal pooch.

Watch the video and if you don't have a warm feeling when it's over, there is something wrong with you.  This is the future folks.  3D printing of dental crowns and other prosthetics is very cool and is going to change the industry, but being able to make a crippled dog run, well that's just incredible.

About Three Million Teeth Expected To Be Knocked Out During Sporting Events Annually

Did that headline get your attention?  It did mine when I came across it in the ADA Morning Huddle newsletter.  As a baseball lover, I pay attention to a lot of stats & it seems that about 1 player a year in MLB loses a tooth due to some type of on the field injury.  That is roughly a pool of 750 athletes.

Back in the days of football before mouthguards & facemasks, dental & facial injuries were 40% of football injuries.  Requiring the mouthguard & facemask dropped that percentage to 0.5%.

However, tooth loss is still a major injury/consequence of sports in America.  A survey from the American Association of Orthodontists discovered that 67% of parents surveyed stated their children do not wear any type of mouthguard during sporting activities.  The truly frightening part of that stat is that, according to the National Youth Sports Safety Foundation, "athletes who do not wear mouthguards are sixty times more likely to damage their teeth!!!"

As a dentist who provides sports dentistry services (not to brag, but I am the consulting dentist to Lee's Summit High School Sports Teams), the previous paragraph makes me cringe.  Add to the above statistics that the majority of amateur athletes are wearing over the counter "boil and bite" mouthguards which provide little to no protection, and that 67% number is even higher.

Many parents and adult athletes have the perception that a "boil and bite" mouthguard or a flat piece of U-shaped rubber held between the teeth offers the same protection as a custom made professional mouthguard.  Nothing could be further from the truth.

Dr. Michael E. Cadra and Dr. Jacob S. Barber have a nice article that details sports injuries to the face, head, and neck.  It definitely deserves to be read by anyone who participates in athletics or is the parent of an athlete.  Kudos to these doctors on a fine article.

Colgate Announces Second Edition of Popular Oral Systemic Textbook, Periodontal Disease and Overall Health: A Clinician’s Guide

New York City, NY (March 10, 2015) – Colgate-Palmolive Co. announces the publication of the textbook Periodontal Disease and Overall Health: A Clinician’s Guide, Second Edition. The 370-page volume is an update of the original 2010 edition and includes contributions regarding the periodontal disease and oral systemic relationship from 32 renowned clinicians and scientists representing both dental and medical sciences.  

Periodontal Disease and Overall Health: A Clinician’s Guide, Second Edition provides the latest information and clinical studies pertaining to the oral systemic relationship and is specifically directed at understanding how periodontal disease might affect distant sites and organs, therefore having an effect on overall health. Each chapter details the latest findings on the relationship between oral and systemic diseases and the co-management of patients for optimal oral and physical health.  

According to editors of the textbook Robert J. Genco (University at Buffalo, The State University of New York) and Ray C. Williams (University of North Carolina, formerly with Stony Brook University, The State University of New York), “We were fortunate to have assembled a group of respected and scholarly clinicians and scientists who, in eighteen chapters, provide a current and thoughtful perspective on the relationship of periodontal disease to systemic conditions.”  

Renowned clinicians and scientists worldwide have extensively studied the relationship of periodontal disease to overall health and disease, and several conferences and workshops have been convened to examine the evidence to date. At one of the conferences held in January 2008, the need for a textbook was discussed that would summarize and put into context the current information on periodontal disease and systemic disease together for students of dentistry and medicine. 

The idea was brought to fruition when the Colgate-Palmolive Company agreed to support the textbook through an educational grant to the publisher. The book was published in Yardley, Pennsylvania by Professional Audience Communications, Inc., publishers and consultants in dental marketing and research communications.

With funding provided by the Colgate-Palmolive Company, Dr. Fotinos S. Panagakos, Global Director for Scientific Affairs at Colgate, underscores the contribution of the textbook as “a prime example of Colgate’s ongoing commitment of ensuring that dental professionals receive continuing education via the most current research data and clinical discoveries regarding progressive industry concerns and matters.” 

Periodontal Disease and Overall Health: A Clinician’s Guide Second Edition will be freely accessible in PDF format at www.colgateprofessional.com, as well as on the Colgate Oral Health Network (http://www.colgateoralhealthnetwork.com). An eBook version is also in development for the release in the near future.

Agenda Set for the 9th International Congress on 3D Dental Imaging Scheduled for April 17-18, 2015, in Dallas, Texas

Discover how the information and applications from 3D technology can help clinicians to optimize treatment.  Hatfield, PA (March 10, 2015) i-CATTM (a brand of the KaVo Kerr Group) and Henry Schein Dental announced today that the 9th International Congress on 3D Dental Imaging will take place April 17-18, 2015 at the Dallas Marriott City Center. With the theme of “GO 3D. Your Story Starts Here,” the event is designed to share the perspectives of knowledgeable industry experts about exciting and relevant topics regarding 3D applications in dentistry with  a concentrated focus on airway evaluations. The program will provide tips and best practices for this technology and its applications for general dentistry and dental specialties.”  Some featured topics at this year’s event include:  “The Use of CBCT Planning and Guided Surgery Applications to Improve Quality of Life After Traumatic Injury” by Dr. Scott Ganz  “DICOM Multiplanar Reconstructed Images —What Do You See, and is it Important?” By Dr. Bruce Howerton “Orthodontic: Unlocking the Power of CBCT: Beyond Basics and into the Future” by Dr. Sean Carlson “Airway: Their Story, CBCT and Airway-Centered Treatment Planning” by Dr. Juan Carlos Quintero Attendees will also hear keynote speakers, Dr. Cynthia Brattesani and Dr. John Graham discuss the “whys” of 3D imaging and their personal experiences on the journey to a 3D-enriched practice. Besides the clinical aspects of 3D imaging, Dr. Lou Shuman will explore practice marketing opportunities using social media, and Christine Taxin will offer insurance and billing tips that could lead to a smoother reimbursement process.  In addition to the educational sessions, networking opportunities will offer attendees time to interact with colleagues and industry speakers, explore partner exhibits, and visit the i-CAT booth to see the latest 3D products and services. An i-CAT User’s Meeting on April 16 will feature a product and technology update, including discussions about how to select the best scan for each patient; optimize the use and performance of a 3D system; and select the best 3D scan protocol, resolution and field of view for each patient. A variety of other topics will also be covered, including the integration of the 3D system into the practice, and best practices for marketing the system to help drive increased patient traffic.  Rick Matty, Director of Marketing for i-CAT, notes, “At the 9th International Congress on 3D Dental Imaging, we are excited to present speakers with first-hand knowledge of the benefits of 3D imaging and experience with effective and safe applications of this imaging modality for patients. We have received much positive feedback from attendees at past Congresses, and we are happy to see the educational opportunities continue to grow in scope and value.” i-CAT has evolved into a trusted brand dedicated to advancing dental treatment in the offering of its 3D imaging products, including Tx STUDIO post-processing software. The company’s commitment to safe, effective, low-dose 3D cone beam imaging continues to drive development of new products that can lead to more precise dental care. Henry Schein Dental is the exclusive distributor of i-CAT systems.

KaVo Kerr Group is an ADA CERP Recognized Provider. Besides the latest information on 3D imaging, attendees also receive 12 CEUs for the Congress and 6 CEUs for the User’s Meeting. Registration can be completed online, by fax, or phone. For information on the 9th International Congress on 3D Dental Imaging, visit the Congress webpage at http://www.i-cat.com/events/congress. Use promo code FB2015 through March 17th and receive a $150 discount at checkout. 

*Data on file; Indications for Use at www.i-cat.com\ifu 

About i-CAT 

Serving the dental industry since 1992, i-CATTM is at the global forefront in the development and manufacturing of the computer-controlled dental and maxillofacial radiography products, and internationally recognized by highly regarded dentists and radiologists as one of the most innovative companies in dental imaging. i-CAT systems offers clinicians enhanced features for highly effective treatment planning and surgical predictability. i-CAT is exclusively distributed by Henry Schein Dental. To learn more, visit www.i-cat.com. 

i-CAT is a member of the KaVo Kerr Group. KaVo Kerr Group is a global portfolio of leading dental brands that share common values of Trust, Experience, Choices, Quality and Smart Innovation. Brands include KaVo, Kerr, Kerr Total Care, Pentron, Axis|Sybron Endo, Orascoptic, Pelton & Crane, Marus, Gendex, DEXIS, Instrumentarium, SOREDEX, i-CAT, NOMAD, Implant Direct and Ormco. With over 500 years of combined experience and proven solutions, KaVo Kerr Group uniquely serves 99% of all dental practices. Visit www.kavokerrgroup.com for more information. 

About Henry Schein, Inc. 

Henry Schein Dental is the U.S. Dental business of Henry Schein, Inc., the world’s largest provider of health care products and services to office-based dental, animal health and medical practitioners. Henry Schein, Inc. also serves dental laboratories, government and institutional health care clinics, and other alternate care sites. A Fortune 500® Company and a member of the NASDAQ 100® Index, Henry Schein employs more than 17,500 Team Schein Members and serves more than 1 million customers. 

The Company offers a comprehensive selection of products and services, including value-added solutions for operating efficient practices and delivering high-quality care. Henry Schein operates through a centralized and automated distribution network, with a selection of more than 100,000 branded products and Henry Schein private- brand products in stock, as well as more than 150,000 additional products available as special-order items. The Company also offers its customers exclusive, innovative technology solutions, including practice management software and e-commerce solutions, as well as a broad range of financial services. 

Headquartered in Melville, N.Y., Henry Schein has operations or affiliates in 28 countries. The Company’s sales reached a record $10.4 billion in 2014, and have grown at a compound annual rate of approximately 16% since Henry Schein became a public company in 1995. For more information, visit the Henry Schein website at www.henryschein.com. 

How to Control Your IPhone if You have Broken Buttons

Whether you have a phone with broken button or you just want to accomplish some tasks without using the buttons, today is your lucky day. Sometimes my inner geek just gets the best of me and then its off to the races! :-)

So, today here is a sweet little trick to do phone manipulation without the buttons on your iPhone.

The secret here is to use a little trick called AssistiveTouch. What you need to do is go to Settings>General>Accessibility. When you get there, you need to scroll down to where you see AssistiveTouch. Turn the AssistiveTouch function on and a small gray button will appear as an overlay on your screen. Once it is there, you can drag it around to wherever you want it. The cool part is that when you tap it, you get a bunch of options.

It sort of takes the place of your *Home Button* (if you tap the Home Button function) . In short, it basically will replace any function that could be performed with a button previously.

Very cool and pretty handy.


-Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Great Britain Arrests Hackers in Major Crackdown

As regular readers of my blog know, I'm frequently forced to post about data theft, identity theft, and all kinds of nefarious schemes and scams.  It seems that hardly a day goes by without  *some* type of bad news from the world of cyber security.

It is becoming harder and harder to keep the bad guys out of our systems even harder to know if your system has been compromised... unless the bad guys post about it online.

So, I'm proud today to be able to post regarding  an event I'd like to call "Score one for the good guys!"

One of my favorite news apps for my iPad is the BBC app.  I don't have time to peruse the info every day, but I do manage to give it a read several times a week and I frequently come away with good information.

Today I was pleased to see that Great Britain's National Crime Agency, took down 56 hackers in 25 separate operations.  Crimes ranged from data theft, fraud, virus writing, to even a hack of Yahoo in 2012.  They also managed to apprehend a member of the hacking collective Lizard Squad as well as a member of D33Ds.

If you nose around cyber security news sites, you'll see information of arrests from time to time, but they rarely make major news headlines.  In my opinion, that's too bad.  Cyber crime is not victimless,  ask anyone who has had their identity stolen.  Maybe, just maybe if more of the arrests made the major news outlets we deter some people who are considering breaking these laws.  We can't stop all of them, but we can certainly stop *some* from entering the realm.

Also, reporting on these arrests gives the everyday non-geek some piece of mind.  It's good to know that there are some "White Hat" cyber forces out there trying to make the Internet a safe place fro us all.

The complete story from the BBC is here.

Crosstex Acquires DentaPUre Waterline Disinfection Manufacturer MRLB International

For the past year or so, I've been using the DentaPure system in my office.  Everyone in dentistry understands the importance of waterline safety.  Most offices have moved to using closed systems (water bottle dental units) and then putting some type of chemistry into the bottles to ensure maximum elimination of CFU's.

However, I got rid of the chemistry and moved to a NASA developed system from DentaPure.  My post in the link above, explains the how & why.

Today I'm excited to report to you that infection control leader Crosstex has purchased DentaPure and will be selling the system going forward.  Here is all the info:

Crosstex further expanded its infection prevention and control portfolio with the acquisition of MRLB International, the manufacturer of the DentaPure waterline disinfection cartridge system. The DentaPure product line is a patented, proprietary iodinated resin filter cartridge system. This technology is a spin-off of the NASA technology used in the space shuttle program and currently being used in other aerospace applications. MRLB perfected the use of these systems for dental unit waterline compliance. The DentaPure cartridge system surpasses all standards and CDC recommendations for dental unit water quality, thus maintaining safe water quality for patients and staff. The DentaPure cartridge system is EPA registered as a dental unit waterline disinfectant and is FDA (510K) registered. 

Waterline quality and the safety of the patient have long been a passion of MRLB CEO Barry Hammarback who stated that “easy compliance with waterline disinfection is the key to safer dental treatments.” Hammarback went on to say “Crosstex has an outstanding marketing network which will ensure that our efforts to make DentaPure the easiest to use, most effective dental unit waterline treatment system, will continue.” 

As a leading global provider of infection prevention and control products, Crosstex is the dental industry market leader in biological monitoring/sterility assurance. “DentaPure enjoys a leading position in the Dental Unit Waterline category and is the market leader in dental unit waterline cartridges” states Andrew Whitehead, Crosstex Senior Vice President of Business Development. “With the strong support of our global distribution partners, our global sales team and our marketing/educational focus we will elevate the awareness of dental unit waterline compliance.” 

Gary Steinberg, President and CEO of Crosstex stated, “Dental unit waterline disinfection is one of the fastest growing market segments of the Infection Control category in the dental Industry. DentaPure’s strong market position with their unique and innovative product portfolio allows Crosstex to be the market leader in this important segment for our dental customers domestically and internationally. When combined with our leading biological monitoring portfolio, DentaPure positions Crosstex as the clear infection prevention and control compliance leader in the dental industry.” 

About Crosstex 

A division of Cantel Medical, Crosstex manufactures a wide array of infection prevention and control products for the healthcare industry. Founded in 1953 and headquartered in Hauppauge, New York, Crosstex sells products including face masks, which are 100% manufactured in its FDA-registered New York facility. Sold in more than 100 countries, Crosstex products include sterilization pouches and accessories patient towels and bibs, surface disinfectants and deodorizers, germicidal wipes, hand sanitizers, gloves, sponges, cotton products, saliva ejectors and evacuator tips. 

Sedation Safety Week

I normally try and make one post per day Monday through Friday.  However, every once in a while something comes along that I feel necessitates to keep all of you aware of important events or news.  This is one of those times.

Just a few minutes ago I received an email about Sedation Safety Week that starts the week of Monday March 9th, which is this coming Monday.  So that you can all be aware and be prepared for it, I'm sharing the email and links it included.  This is not an endorsement of the DOCS program, but an effort to help keep my readers better informed.

Hopefully you'll find some benefit in this, because that's my main point of the blog.  If I can help you all keep up with the portion of dentistry that I am in the thick of, my goal is to help you help your patients.  I think Sedation Safety is one of those things.

Here is the email in its entirety.  Feel free to use and share with peers.

Sedation Safety Week Monday March 9 - Friday March 13, 2015 Sedation Safety Week is just two days away! Remember to join dentists throughout the country in refreshing their commitment to safety and patient wellbeing by visiting SedationSafetyWeek.com each day beginning Monday, March 9. You'll be able to take advantage of articles, resources and event announcements all designed to make everything you do safer. Your practice, your team - and your patients - will all benefit. For a special sneak-peak at the kind of content you'll get all week long during Sedation Safety Week, click below to download a Sedation Safety Checklist authored by DOCS Education Faculty and EMT, John Bovia. Download the Checklist Want to join the numerous dentists across the nation who sharpen their skills and increase their resources with the help of Sedation Safety Week? Simply curious to know more? Visit SedationSafetyWeek.com.

American Academy of Periodontology Publishes Proceedings from 2014 Workshop on Regeneration

Clinical recommendations and practical application reports available in Journal of Periodontology, Clinical Advances in Periodontics

CHICAGO (February 27, 2015)–The American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) has released the official proceedings from its June 2014 workshop on regenerative therapies for periodontal disease. Systematic reviews and consensus reports from the “Enhancing Periodontal Health through Regenerative Approaches” workshop are published in a supplement to the February 2015 edition of the Journal of Periodontology. Practical application reports, intended to guide dental professionals in the application of periodontal regeneration in the clinical setting, are available in the February 2015 issue Clinical Advances in Periodontics.

"The workshop was an amazing collaborative effort that provides the most current consensus of therapies and technologies in regenerative treatment,” says AAP president Joan Otomo-Corgel, DDS, MPH. “We’re thrilled to share the results of the these dynamic discussions. This pioneering information will provide tremendous benefit to the periodontal specialty, the dental community, and the patients we treat.”

Fifty-two workshop participants met in Chicago last summer to conduct a systematic review of existing literature, culminating in the development of consensus reports and practical applications to aid practitioners in the clinical environment. Topics of the workshop included the following: 

• Periodontal Soft Tissue Root Coverage Procedures: Managing gingival recession based on current evidence with a primary outcome goal of complete root coverage
• Periodontal Soft Tissue Non-Root Coverage Procedures: Assessing the need for gingival augmentation procedures (non-root coverage) around natural teeth
• Intrabony Defects: Periodontal regenerative strategies for the management of intrabony periodontal defects
• Furcation Defects: How periodontal furcation defects should be managed via periodontal regenerative therapy and what parameters should be used for treatment selection
• Emerging Regenerative Approaches for Periodontal Reconstruction: Can emerging technologies for periodontal regeneration become clinical reality?

The practical application reports provide the unique component of the workshop. Each practical application paper describes a specific clinical situation, different approaches that may be considered in its management, and how to make treatment decisions based on the provided evidence. Clinical Advances in Periodontics also offers illustrative images and videos that further detail the clinical situation, how it was managed, and its expected treatment outcomes.

The workshop was spearheaded by an AAP-designated organizing committee, co-chaired by William Giannobile, DDS, MS, DMSc, and Pamela McClain, DDS. The American Academy of Periodontology Foundation, Geistlich Pharma North America, Colgate-Palmolive, and the Osteology Foundation partnered with the AAP to provide support of the workshop’s programming.

The AAP regularly organizes consensus workshops on issues surrounding the science and practice of periodontics. Past sessions include the 2010 Workshop on Inflammation and a 2012 joint session with the European Federation of Periodontology on periodontal disease and systemic diseases.

Brasseler USA® Introduces Refreshed Brand Identity

New Look Unveiled at Special Event During the 2015 Chicago Midwinter Dental Meeting Showcases What Sets Company Apart

SAVANNAH, GA (February 26, 2015) – Brasseler USA^®, the premier dental instrumentation Company in North America, recently introduced a new branding initiative to be implemented throughout 2015 and beyond. The Company unveiled some of the components of its recent efforts, such as a refreshed logo, at an exclusive reception held for members of the media at this year’s Chicago Midwinter Dental Meeting.  

Though the updated brand identity will be gradually introduced, Brasseler USA had many noticeable changes at the Midwinter meeting that reflected the new approach including a newly designed tradeshow booth as well as updated marketing materials, business cards, and stationery. Other components showcasing the new look will be progressively integrated over time.  

Brasseler USA’s tagline, “By Your Side”, embodies what sets the Company apart. “Our tagline has been refined to broaden its meaning,” remarked Don Waters, President and CEO of Brasseler USA. “‘By Your Side’ reflects our passion to support dentists in delivering predictable and consistent clinical results. Through collaboration with key opinion leaders recognized for their expertise, Brasseler USA develops innovative products which provide solutions and thereby enhance clinical practice.  Our consultative, direct-sales approach means that Brasseler USA is by the dentists’ side. We are committed to remain ‘By Your Side’ for many years to come.”

The Company has had many noteworthy innovations since entering the dental marketplace almost 40 years ago, such as its unique direct-sales approach. Founder Peter Brasseler felt that the best way to assure that clinicians received the products and ongoing service they deserved was to have his products only sold direct. 

“Peter Brasseler believed that the most meaningful path to success was to develop strong relationships with Key Opinion Leaders recognized for their expertise who actually use the products in practice,” stated Waters. “To bring these products to market, Peter established a direct-sales model where Brasseler USA sales consultants sell only Brasseler USA branded products. Each member of our sales team has in-depth knowledge of dental procedures and the products needed to provide predictable results. Remember, Brasseler USA products are only available through Brasseler USA sales representatives.”

Another aspect that sets the Company apart is its focus on instrumentation. As a result, the Company is able to anticipate market needs, especially around modern materials, and design and create precise instrumentation supporting minimally-invasive dental procedures. Brasseler USA prides itself on providing best-of-class instrumentation for use in dental laboratories, restorative dentistry, endodontics, oral surgery, and oral hygiene. 

The Company has formed extremely close working relationships through the years with the most respected clinicians and educators in the profession in order to develop products that truly elevate clinical practice. Collaboration with highly regarded thought leaders has led to product development supporting both efficient practice and consistent results. 

“Our recent branding efforts were initiated to reinvigorate the classic Brasseler USA brand that dental professionals know and trust,” continued Waters. “Our fundamental philosophy and practice of working to support and elevate clinical practice remains the same. Our customers value quality and precision in their instruments to deliver excellent oral healthcare to their patients. Brasseler USA is, and always has been, proud to be ‘By Your Side’ as a true partner in professional success.” 

For more information about Brasseler USA and its products and services, please visit www.BrasselerUSA.com.  

Measles May First Present in the Oral Cavity

A big thank you to the American Dental Association for a much needed reminder to professionals that measles often appear first in the mouth.

Many of us were given only a cursory training of the oral symptoms of measles since for all intents & purposes the disease had been eradicated in the U.S.  However, with many parents now opting to forgo immunization, we are now seeing the first large measles outbreaks in decades.

To help practitioners, the ADA sent out the following in Monday's ADA Morning Huddle email.  My hats off to the ADA for helping doctors help their patients!  Here is the info with a link:

The American Dental Association (3/2, Williams) reports that although “the first signs of measles occur typically in the head and neck region and in the oral cavity...some dentists may not have had the occasion to actually see these symptoms due to years of successful control of the disease.” American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry spokeswoman Dr. Catherine Flaitz “advises dentists to be prepared in the event a patient shows up with certain signs and symptoms of the disease,” adding that a parent may first seek care from a dentist due to the fact that measles first presents in the head and neck region. The three main signs in the oral cavity of measles are koplik spots, atypical gingivitis with pustules and necrosis, and operculitis.

Kavo QuatroCare Plus Evaluation Starting Soon

I just got word on Monday that in the not too distant future (meaning soon) I'll be evaluating the Kavo QuatroCare Plus handpiece maintenance system.

For those of you not familiar with it, the device is a self contained lubrication and cleaning unit that does all of the pre-sterilization handpiece tasks automatically.  You basically attach your handpieces to the unit and it performs all functions that need to be taken care of internally to assure your handpieces are ready for their next use.

Let's face it, like it or not, the handpiece is pretty much the heart and soul of most dental practices and we rely on them tremendously.  They also go through quite a lot when you consider the stresses they are under both from clinical applications as well as from sterilization cycles.  The QuatroCare Plus ensures proper internal maintenance to help keep your repair costs down.

Here's what Kavo has to say about it:

Benefits of Dental Maintenance with KaVo

More than 70% of all handpiece failures are due to insufficient maintenance! KaVo QUATTROcare Plus puts an end to the following:

• Time consuming and expensive individual maintenance and handpiece repair 
• Extensive staff training and complaints
• Guesswork and cutting corners
• Oily mess
• Handpiece repair and maintenance headaches

The QUATTROcare Plus Dental Handpiece Maintenance System provides:

• Consistent and extremely efficient dental maintenance of up to four handpieces on one cycle - with the push of a button
• Enormous time, and therefore cost, savings for your dental office
• Protection of your valuable handpiece investment
• New chuck care feature

I'm excited to get this one going as it seems like we've been dealing with more handpiece repairs lately.  I'll be providing more info, once we get the test rolling.

Back from Chicago...

After 8 days... yes you read that right, 8 days, I've returned from my Chicago trip.

The 150th Chicago MidWinter Meeting is now over, but wow what a meeting it was!

The Chicago Dental Society has this down to a fine art.  The MidWinter meeting is one that I've attended for probably the last 20 years or so.  Sometimes I've been there as an invited speaker, but on years where I'm not lecturing, I still make sure to be there simply because it is one of the best meetings in the U.S.  This year was no exception.

Over 27,000 people attended this year's meeting and if you didn't have a good time there, well you have no one to blame but yourself.  The meeting is always well planned and well executed.  As I said above, the folks at the CDS have got this thing down.  Needless to say, count me in for next year.

My week was a whirlwind of work, meetings, and presentations.  On Monday I was fortunate enough to be the first official CE program videoed at the brand new ADA Studios.  I had 2 one hour CE lectures "in the can" by midafternoon.  Look for lots of online CE to come from this new ADA endeavour.  On Tuesday I had a work related meeting with Centric Learning Systems, a new venture that I'm part of.  The meeting resulted in some work that took most of the day.  However, I *did* manage to sneak a lunch in at the famous Billy Goat Tavern.

Wednesday was the annual editorial meeting for Dental Products Report.  I can't say a lot about our future plans, but trust me when I say you'll be seeing some amazing stuff coming along.  Wednesday night was the Oral Health Alliance Gala where I got to wear my tux and mingle with lots of people in the dental industry.

Thursday was the first day of the MidWinter meeting and I spent most of the day running from one meeting to another.  That night brought the Voco party (great job Nicole!) and then dinner with some great friends.

Friday started my work day at 7:00 as we tried to do the Best of Class voting in the morning for once.  After that experiment we decided to move it back to an evening time.  As soon as the BOC voting was over, it was more meetings for the remainder of the day and then off to a nice event hosted by AMD lasers and then a get together with the good people at Danville Materials.

Wrapping up my work week was Saturday where I spent the whole day lecturing.  I was amazed and honored by how many people were there for both my morning and afternoon sessions.  Considering it was Saturday and severely cold, I thought most people would stay home.  They didn't though and we had a blast talking about technology in dentistry.

I couldn't get home until Sunday though.  Eight days on the road is tough.  It may not sound that bad, but trust me when I say that when your hotel room starts to feel like an apartment, that's not a good thing.  Nothing felt better than touching down back in The Land of Oz Sunday afternoon.

Some fun and exciting things are on tap for the rest of 2015.  My first project will be working with a glasses mounted camera that will start next week.  More updates as things progress...