Sugar- and Artificially Sweetened Beverages and the Risks of Incident Stroke and Dementia

 

For years, Americans have been slugging down diet sodas at an un-Godly rate.  Usually this is done under the pretense that “diet soda is better for you than the type with all of the sugar”.  When it comes to your teeth, this may very well be true, but I’ve often wondered what all of the chemicals in diet soft drinks are doing to the rest of you.  Case in point, I’ve taken a lot of grief over the years about my choice to drink regular Coca-cola (when it drink a soft drink) instead of Diet.  My reply has always been “I’d rather dance with the devil I know than the one I don’t.”

 

Now comes info that my gut feelings may have been right.  I’m not claiming that any kind of soft drink is good for you.  It’s just that I’ve always had the nagging feeling that diet might just be MORE bad for you.  So, take a look at a quick excerpt from a study in the April 2017 Journal of the American Heart Association.  After reading it, if you’d like to read the full scientific paper, here is the link.

 

Sugar- and artificially-sweetened beverage intake have been linked to cardiometabolic risk factors, which increase the risk of cerebrovascular disease and dementia. We examined whether sugar- or artificially sweetened beverage consumption was associated with the prospective risks of incident stroke or dementia in the community-based Framingham Heart Study Offspring cohort.

NuSmile NeoMTA® Launches in Canada

 

HOUSTON, TEXAS, April 6, 2017—NuSmile Ltd., the worldwide leader in pediatric esthetic restorative dentistry, announced today that its NuSmile NeoMTA is now available in Canada.

NuSmile NeoMTA is the first and only affordable MTA specifically optimized for pediatric dentistry. The ideal treatment for pulpotomies, direct and indirect pulp capping, and apexification, it is quickly wash- out resistant, non-staining and has excellent handling properties. NuSmile NeoMTA is also bioactive and non-toxic, delivering peace of mind that formocresol may not provide.

Cost-effective for pediatric dentistry

Historically, many dentists who would have preferred to use bioactive, non-toxic MTA rather than formocresol for pediatric pulp therapy found MTA to be cost-prohibitive. This is no longer an issue, as NuSmile NeoMTA’s cost per gram is dramatically less than that of all other leading MTAs. Moreover, its unique dessicant-lined bulk packaging system allows dentists to use only what is needed for each pulp therapy, virtually eliminating waste.

Truly bioactive

Unlike formocresol and resin/MTA blends, NuSmile NeoMTA is bioactive, hydrophilic, non-toxic and 100 percent biocompatible. MTA has been widely studied and is proven to trigger the formation of hydroxyapatite leading to dentinal bridging. NuSmile NeoMTA contains no resins, and thus delivers unmatched performance for pediatric dental procedures.

Unsurpassed handling

NuSmile NeoMTA’s combination of ultrafine powder and proprietary gel delivers exceptional mixing, handling and placement. The powder and gel can be mixed to form a putty-like consistency that is very easy to work with and stays in place.

Superior to other MTAs

NuSmile NeoMTA is superior to other MTAs in ways that transcend cost. It is quickly washout resistant and sets much faster than other MTAs. It is also more radiopaque than many MTAs, readily visible in radiographs. NuSmile NeoMTA’s non-staining formula is especially useful for pulp therapy treatment prior to restoration with either zirconia crowns or composites.

NuSmile NeoMTA received the coveted “Best Product” designation based on an extensive evaluation conducted by Dental Product Shopper magazine. It was also named one of the “Top 100 Products” in the entire dental industry by Dentistry Today magazine.

“We’re very proud to be the first manufacturer to make it affordable for dentists to experience the peace of mind that our non-staining MTA can deliver for pediatric dentistry,” said Mark Binford, NuSmile’s Senior Vice President for New Product Development. “We’re equally proud that in addition to being much less expensive than other MTAs, NuSmile NeoMTA provides better handling and faster setting properties than other MTAs, making it perfect for pediatric dentistry.”

As with other NuSmile products, NuSmile NeoMTA is sold direct to dental practices. It is available in a 7.0 gram Professional Kit that is typically enough for 70 or more treatments, and a 2.5 gram Starter Kit that is typically enough for 25 or more treatments.

For more information on NuSmile NeoMTA or other NuSmile products, please call (800) 346-5133 or visit www.nusmile.com. 

Imagine Dragons to Perform at 2017 Ultimate Dental Meeting at The Venetian and The Palazzo in Las Vegas

 

 

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (April 20, 2017) – Dentsply Sirona World 2017 is approaching and Dentsply Sirona, The Dental Solutions Company™, is eager to welcome Imagine Dragons, one of the most popular and talented bands of this generation, to perform for attendees at the Ultimate Dental Meeting.  

The performance, scheduled on Friday evening, Sept. 15, is a private concert and is exclusive to Dentsply Sirona World attendees. 

“Imagine Dragons is an extraordinary group of gifted musicians and this exclusive concert offers attendees a chance to let loose after absorbing hours of comprehensive education,” said Vice President of Marketing Ingo Zimmer. “Our organization takes pride in offering not only top-notch education for our attendees, but also offering A-list entertainment and a memorable experience for years to come.”

Formed in 2009 and featuring lead vocalist Dan Reynolds, guitarist Wayne Sermon, bassist Ben McKee and drummer Daniel Platzman, Imagine Dragons earned a grassroots following by independently releasing a series of EPs. After Alex Da Kid signed them to his KIDinaKORNER/Interscope label, the band made its major-label debut with the release of “Continued Silence,” a 2012 EP featuring the two-time platinum breakthrough single “It’s Time.” “Night Visions” arrived later that year and Imagine Dragons found themselves on a skyward trajectory that saw the album debut at No. 2 on the Billboard Top 200 Albums chart, sell nearly four million copies worldwide and became the No. 1 album on Spotify Worldwide for 2013. 

“Night Visions”’ second single, the nine-time platinum “Radioactive,” hit No. 1 on the Billboard Rock chart and earned the band a 2014 Grammy for Best Rock Performance. The third single “Demons” hit No. 1 at Alternative and Top 40 radio, and has sold 3.9 million copies in the U.S.  Their latest platinum selling release “Smoke + Mirrors” debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Top 200 album chart.  The first single “Believer,” from their forthcoming 2017 release, is currently number one on the alternative radio chart and No.1 on Billboard's Rock Chart.

The second annual Ultimate Dental Meeting will continue the tradition of educational excellence paired with enamoring entertainment. This year’s three-day event, hosted at The Venetian and The Palazzo in Las Vegas from Sept. 14-16, will again offer 11 educational tracks, exciting general sessions, enlightening breakout sessions, lively social activities and more spectacular celebrity entertainment.

Early Bird pricing is available through May 31, 2017, so register now before this special pricing ends and experience an educational festival like no other! Visit www.dentsplysironaworld.com to register or contact our help desk by phone at 844.462.7476 or by email at events@dentsplysironaworld.com.

Important System Upgrade Notification from Curve Dental

 

Most Curve Dental users have recently received an email regarding an upcoming system upgrade provided by Curve.  I’m providing today’s post as a service to anyone who is a Curve user and somehow missed the email that the company sent out last week.  This is a very important announcement for Curve users  and I want to make sure that all of you receive it.  Here is the mail, copied and pasted in its complete form to make sure you get all the pertinent information.  If you happen to have a friend using Curve Dental, feel free to pass this post along to them.  Here is the complete announcement:

 

 

Hi! As a VIP Curve Dental customer we're alerting you to an upgrade you'll need to attend to beginning Monday, April 24, 2017.    You may unsubscribe if you no longer wish to receive our emails.

First things first: Many thanks for choosing Curve Dental to help you manage your practice. It is a privilege to work with you; we will always strive to be a business partner that puts your practice first. Beginning Monday, April 24th, Curve Hero will upgrade a small program called Curve Capture, a utility that helps you capture x-rays and other digital images. Normally, you don't need to concern yourself with upgrades; however, in this case you will need to give Curve Capture permission to upgrade. Why? Because a security issue is involved. Curve Capture's security certificate needs to be updated and your computer will not let that happen without your specific permission. Simply click the Yes button to start the installation process. You can work as normal while the update progresses. You and our other customers will not be upgrading at the same time, which will help control traffic. You may be prompted to upgrade on Monday or you may be prompted to update later in the week. Here's how it works: A Security Warning dialog box will open inside Google Chrome asking you if its okay if Curve Capture installs a security certificate. Just click the 'Yes' button and you're done.  The installation will work in the background and should be completed in less than five minutes. You can continue to work as normal during the installation process. The only action required on your part is to click 'Yes'.   Of course, if you have questions or concerns please call us or send us a message. You can reach our customer service team at 888-910-4376 option 3 or you can send a quick email to support@curvedental.com.  Thanks again for the opportunity to be associated with your practice. Sincerely,   Kristen Smith Director of Customer Services Read our blog!

NuSmile Introduces LED Curing Light to Canada

 

As many of you know, I’m pretty passionate about curing and the science that drives it.  This is a new product for the people at NuSmile.  This light has a wavelength output of 440-465nm which is what is needed to set most composites on the market today that contain CPQ as the photoinitiator.  I don’t have any clinical experience with the device, but I like its low profile design.

 

Low-heat, light-weight, ergonomic light is ideal for use with pediatric patients

HOUSTON, TEXAS, April 6, 2017—NuSmile Ltd., the worldwide leader in pediatric esthetic restorative dentistry, announced today that its LED Curing Light is now available in Canada. Made with light-weight durable cast aluminum housing, the NuSmile LED Curing Light delivers excellent performance and convenience at an affordable price. Its optimal wavelength of 440-465 nm effectively light cures all of the most common dental cements, composites, sealants and varnishes used in pediatric dentistry.

The light provides two high-output settings (1,300 and1,800 mW/cm2), while generating much less heat than other lights. Its ergonomic low-profile design houses the LED source at the end of the tip to make the light easy to use and comfortable for the practitioner and the pediatric patient, even when working with harder to reach second molars. This innovative tip design also prevents breakage.

Equipped with a choice of either a 110 volt or 240 volt UL rated power supply, the LED Curing Light is designed to fit with the practice’s standard dental unit bracket or mounted using the bracket supplied in the kit. It also comes with a convenient countdown timer, a long-lasting lithium-ion battery, and a charging base.

“Our goal was to give our customers the ultimate curing light for pediatric dentistry,” said Diane Johnson Krueger, NuSmile founder and CEO. “With our LED Curing Light’s unsurpassed combination of design, performance and pricing, it is gratifying to say that we’ve truly achieved that goal.” As with other NuSmile products, the NuSmile LED Curing Light is sold direct to dental practices. For more information on the LED Curing Light or other NuSmile products, call +1-800-346-5133 or visit www.nusmile.com.

Dentsply Sirona Orthodontics Advances the Treatment of Minor Anterior Tooth Misalignments

 

 

Dentsply Sirona’s CEREC Club provides its members in more than 70 countries with a comprehensive range of services. Dentsply Sirona is presenting the new CEREC Club with its attractive offerings at the IDS 2017, making membership even more appealing.

Dentsply Sirona Orthodontics announces the expansion of treatment indications for the MTM^® (Minor Tooth Movement) Clear•Aligner. The clear aligner combines proven orthodontic techniques with advanced digital modeling to provide dental professionals with a streamlined solution for treating minor anterior misalignments.

MTM^® Clear•Aligner is uniquely engineered to deliver the space and force needed to accomplish tooth movement. The technology utilizes a proprietary “open pathway” architecture that allows teeth to move easily into the desired positions. Unlike other clear aligners, MTM^®Clear•Aligner does not require clinicians to bond unsightly attachments to teeth, to accomplish movement. No attachments saves practice chair time and provides for a more esthetically pleasing treatment solution for the patient.  To facilitate tooth movement MTM^® Clear•Aligner uses integrated “force points”, programmed into the aligner, to provide a greater range of tooth movements, while making aligner placement and removal easy for the patient.

MTM^® Clear•Aligner targets the movement and positioning of the six most visible teeth, on both the upper and lower arches.  These teeth are known as the social six. The aligner movements address tooth; spacing, tipping, torqueing, intrusion, extrusion, and rotation. Ideal candidates are those who are experiencing adult tooth crowding, orthodontic relapse, or those who seek cosmetic enhancements. Of the thousands of cases completed since the products’ launch, many dental professional note that most of their patients sought simply to improve their smile.

Brad Clatt, Group Vice President of Orthodontics states, “[Native Advertisement]Whether a dental professional currently prescribes clear aligners, or has been waiting for an aligner system that better fits the needs of their patients, MTM Clear•Aligner is a simple solution to address one of the most common misalignments seen in adult patients today. Dentsply Sirona prides itself on keeping patient care, where it belongs, in the hands of the clinician, and offers each clinician a customized approach to treating their patients. MTM Clear•Aligner is a highly affordable solution for both doctor and patient, with the ability to move the social six to the desired position, creating the patient’s Ideal Smile.”

To help offices get started with MTM Clear•Aligner, Dentsply Sirona Orthodontics offers an attractively-priced Welcome Kit that includes discounted patient cases, a web based training course, practice marketing and office integration resources. To learn more about the MTM Clear•Aligner visit the Dentsply Sirona booth #2414, during the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), Annual Session.

 

ADA 2017 to Offer Oral Cancer Courses

 

Regular readers of the blog know how passionate I am about the fight against oral cancer.  It is one of the only cancers whose incidence continues to increase year by year.  The best way to fight it is inoculation against HPV-16 and to receive regular screenings by a dental professional.  This is definitely a terrible & debilitating disease that the profession can do more to fight.

 

That’s why I was so happy to find out that at the ADA Meeting in Atlanta this fall (2017) there will be Oral Cancer Courses offered.  Here is what the ADA had to say:

 

 

Noting “the five-year relative survival rate for those with localized oral cancer and oropharynx cancer at Stage I-II diagnosis is 83 percent, compared with only 38 percent in patients diagnosed at Stage IV,” the ADA News (4/11, Burger) reports that nine oral cancer-related continuing education courses will be available at ADA 2017 – America’s Dental Meeting in Atlanta. “It’s an epidemic,” said North Carolina-based dentist Dr. Jonathan A. Bregman, who will be teaching two courses on oral cancer detection at ADA 2017. Dr. Bregman said that in recent years there has been a “steep increase” in diagnoses of oral cancer, especially due to the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). “It’s all about detection and screening,” said Dr. Bregman.

        Registration for ADA 2017 opens May 10. Learn more about the annual meeting at ADA.org/meeting.

 

 

 

 

For the full article & a list of the courses here is the link.  

Mylan EpiPen Recall Does *not* Impact HealthFirst Customers

 

Like many offices we have been using HeathFirst to supply our emergency kit for several years.  The really nice thing about this company is that they monitor the expiration dates of your emergency medicines and send replacements before they expire.  They also offer a disposal system for the old medications.  It’s a great system for offices that do not choose or have better things to do than monitoring their med supplies.

 

One of the critical components of an office emergency kit is epinephrine self injectors.  As most of you probably know by now, Mylan has had a recall of many of their “Epipen” self injectors.

 

I received the following info on April 11 from HealthFirst letting me know they DO NOT use Mylan self injectors.

 

 

Dear JOHN C. FLUCKE, DDS, On March 31, Mylan Specialty L.P., in consultation with the U.S. FDA, announced a voluntary recall of select lots of EpiPen® and EpiPen Jr® (epinephrine injection, USP) Auto-Injectors.   HealthFirst supplies the Impax brand generic epinephrine auto-injectors, which are not part of the Mylan recall.  We switched to the Impax brand auto-injector after we determined Impax offers our customers a more cost effective, clinically appropriate solution for use in emergency medical kits.  As a valued HealthFirst customer who has purchased an Impax epinephrine auto-injector from us, please be assured the FDA recall does not impact you. You do not need to do anything, unless you also have a Mylan EpiPen in your office. If so, please see the information provided below. Patient and Practice Safety is Always First HealthFirst cares about the safety of your patients and your practice. We’re always ready to help when you have questions about our products and services. Please feel free to call us at 800-331-1984.

Thank you, Dr. Don Cohen Chief Clinical Officer HealthFirst

Dentsply Sirona Announces Retirement for Breakthrough Digital Sensor

 

 

For those of you who are using the Schick CDR sensor, this is really important info.  Read on for all the details…

Schick CDR sensors set the standard for digital X-ray technology in 1998. Today we announce it’s time to sunset the CDR sensor and help our Schick family upgrade their technology.

Charlotte, March 31, 2017. From its launch in 1998, the Schick CDR sensor range served to set the standard for digital X-ray technology in the dental industry. Building on Schick’s existing multiple film-like sizes of sensors first introduced in 1994, the CDR range introduced revolutionary technologies, which we now take for granted as industry standards.

With the introduction of the CDR sensor came the now industry standard CMOS-APS technology and USB connectivity. CDR also helped launch unique solutions in CDR Wireless, the industry’s only truly wireless sensor solution, and CDR Pluswire, the first in the line of sensors with in-office replaceable cable technology, a feature still unique to Dentsply Sirona. It also inspired our unique adhesive parallel positioning system.

While we look back on the developments coming out of this product, we will use 2018 to mark the sensor’s 20th birthday. It will also mark the retirement of CDR. Superseded in recent years by Schick Elite and Schick 33, reduced demand for Schick CDR and escalating production costs means it is time to say goodbye.

From March 31, 2018, Schick CDR sensors will no longer be serviced or supported by Dentsply Sirona or Patterson Dental and no further software releases will be made to support the sensors.

To ensure these changes have minimal impact on our clinicians’ practices, a trade-up program is available to help upgrade practices to Schick 33. Offices should contact their local Patterson branch or Dentsply Sirona representative for more information.

Additionally, throughout the next 12 months, Dentsply Sirona will celebrate the technology and people that made such a difference to the field of intraoral imaging, as well as those dental professionals who benefited so much from its use. 

Dentsply Sirona Prosthetics Introduces the First High Impact Pourable Acrylic Denture Base

This is a pretty cool idea.  The ability to actually *pour* a denture base is one that is not on interesting, but should be a pretty good time saver as well… at least until we start printing dentures. 

York, Pennsylvania, April 4, 2017 – Dentsply Sirona, The Dental Solutions Company™, announced the introduction of Lucitone^® HIPA (High Impact Pour Acrylic).

 

Lucitone^® HIPA is a high impact pourable acrylic denture base. It is the first pourable acrylic denture base on the market to exceed both of the required ISO standards for improved impact resistance. Lucitone HIPA was introduced in the United States in January and launched globally at the IDS Meeting in Cologne. 

Catherine Bonser, Dentsply Sirona Director of Prosthetics Global Removable Products, commented “Lucitone HIPA truly provides solutions to dental labs. Labs who use the traditional heat cured technique can now work faster, while still providing a high impact denture. Increased durability reduces the potential for fractures in the dental lab resulting in time and cost savings due to less remakes. And, increased durability reduces the risk of breakage from the patient during normal use.”  

Lucitone HIPA is a self-curing denture base material designed for use in fabrication, repair, rebasing, or relining of full and partial dentures, including implant overdentures or other dental appliances. In addition to being the first high impact pourable acrylic denture base, Lucitone HIPA also features excellent color stability and accurate fit to model.

Curve Dental's 6 Steps to Avoiding Ransomware

 

Last week the cloud based dental software Curve Dental released their 6 ways for individuals and practices to avoid ransomware.  I was impressed with the list and have decided to share it with you here:

 

Ransomware is bad and getting worse. The price decline of patient records has driven cyber-criminals to change their tactics and look for new ways to supplement the downturn.

 

As reported on the ZDnet website, Satan Ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS) platforms give cyber-criminals the ability to spread Ransomware in return for subscription payments. Dark Web developers automatically take 30 percent of revenues off cyber-attackers using Ransomware-as-a-Service in their campaigns.

 

Think about this for a moment. Random criminals can subscribe to a platform that generates Ransomware with dashboard readouts and other features that track infections.  Ransomware-as-a-service is creepy. Read story.

 

Dental practices should prepare for Ransomware

Ransomware is a type of malicious software designed to lock important patient files or computer systems until a sum of money is paid. This is digital extortion. The attacker encrypts the victim's data and demands payment in return for the decryption key.

 

Do these things to protect your dental practice from Ransomware!

Take this 2017 HIPAA Risk Assessment: The Risk Assessment is a systematic process of evaluating potential risks within your practice and required by law. Your patients will appreciate your commitment to protecting their private information. Click here to take the assessment.

 

Step up to the cloud: If you are using dental cloud Software-as-a-Service and direct image capture then pat yourself on the back! SaaS is software licensed on a subscription basis and centrally hosted in the cloud. Ransomeware cannot attack in-office data that isn't there, but instead stored in the cloud. Not all dental SaaS cloud vendors are equal so do your homework.

Make offsite backup and recovery a priority: After a Ransomware attack, the first question that an IT pro will ask is whether you have a clean backup. Successful backup files are the only ones that count so make certain that a recent clean copy is stored offline safe from Ransomware. Restoring your files is a race against the clock. It can take anywhere from 15 minutes to days depending. Click here to learn more about services I recommend.

 

Keep software current: Antivirus and anti-malware services are highly recommended. Security vendors constantly work on definition updates to catch malware before it infects your files.  Confirm you are running the most recent versions of all software and install regular updates and patches. Again, if you're using dental SaaS software you don't need to worry about keeping your software up to date.

 

Train your staff: Human error is the weak link in a Ransomware crisis. In most cases, malware is downloaded by a practice member surfing the web, opening a link or attachment in a phishing email.

 

Create a Ransomware and malware disaster recovery plan: Each member of your staff that uses an office computer needs to understand your practice's data security plan in order to avoid the devastating effects of a Ransomware attack.

 

The final word

Satan Ransomware-as-a-Service is creepy. The mere thought of developing a "for criminals by criminals" service that spreads Ransomware is stomach turning. Society has changed and so must we.

 

Evaluating potential risks within your practice is the best place to start. Take your complimentary 2017 Risk Assessment today to recognize your vulnerabilities.  A few minutes of your time will help protect your practice from Ransomware.

National Cancer Network’s Live Event, “Unveiling the Mask of Cancer” Welcomes Oral Health Professionals & Consumers

Occurring April 21-23 in Philadelphia, this event is a combination of seminars, break-out sessions and exhibits dedicated to elevating cancer awareness, standard of care and support 

 

Hobe Sound, FL – March 29, 2017 – The National Cancer Network, a non-profit 501 (c) dedicated to raising awareness to prevent late stage diagnosis of visible forms of cancers, will be hosting a live program entitled “Unveiling the Mask of Cancer”.  The three-day event will he held April 21^st through the 23^rd at the Sheraton in Philadelphia.

 

According to National Cancer Network founder, Debbie Zafiropoulos, “The goal of this event is to engage with the local healthcare and consumer communities to raise their collective awareness and commitment to cancer prevention, progress, screening and referrals.”

 

For oral health professionals, the event is featuring a robust CE program featuring presentations and breakout sessions from some of the most respected and dynamic thought leaders including:

 

• Dr. Gerald Curatola: “Understanding the Mouth-Body Connection; A protocol for Conquering Illness & Cancer.” Dr. Curatola is the author of “The Mouth-Body Connection.”

 

• Patti DiGangi, RDH, BS: Breakout Session – “Tides of Change: Practicing in A Digital World.” 

 

• Todd Cohen: “How a Single Conversation Saved My Life”. Todd is a professional sales coach and a cancer survivor.

 

-more-

• Claudia Lovato, RDH: “The Science of Happiness and How Living Happy is Living Healthy.”

 

• Dr. Juliet Dang: “HPV - It’s Everywhere! Understanding How a Virus Could Affect a Cancer Risk.”

 

• Lu Ann Cahn: “Moving Courageously Beyond Cancer: An Empowering Insight.” Lu Ann is an NBC 10 reporter and cancer survivor.

 

• Bill Grondin: “Empowering Words to Build a Soulful Recovery.” Bill is a spiritual inspiration and enlightenment coach.

 

• Anastasia Turchetta, RDH: “Highway to Health”. A panel discussion moderated by Anastasia with survivors and family members. Learn what helped and what didn’t during and after diagnosis.

 

• Debora Carrier & Sister Darla Miller: Breakout Session: CPR Training by American Heart Association Certified Instructors and Training Center Faculty.

 

• Dr. Uche Odiatu: “Exercise is Medicine: Get Strong Live Long.”

 

• Thomas Viola. RPh, CCP: “I Have Become...Comfortably Numb!” An Overview of Local Anesthetic Agents and Vasoconstrictors, Clinical Dental Considerations and Patient Care Planning.

 

• Dr. Howard Pactovis: Infection Control Dynamic Safety. 

 

• Patti DiGangi, RDH, BS: Breakout Session: “What’s New in Disease Diagnosis and How to Maximize the New Dental Codes.”

 

All Keynote programs and breakout sessions are open to the oral health professional for one low price of $299.00, which includes 21 potential CE credits and admission to the Friday night Love the Dove VIP Cocktail Party and Silent Auction! 

 

The exhibit hall will be open to the public for a nominal $20.00 donation and attendees will have the opportunity to become more cancer aware, get screened, and learn from many of the guest speakers listed above during live HealthChats™, scheduled throughout the event in the “Learning to Live Healthy Pavilion” There will also be a lunch time fashion show on Saturday hosted by TwiceAsNice Uniforms.

 

-more-

To learn more about “Unveiling the Mask of Cancer”, including complete schedule, sponsorship opportunities and how to register, visit http://bit.ly/2o4bzYg. 

 

About the National Cancer Network:

 

The National Cancer Network is a non-profit 501 (c) (3) organization founded by dental hygiene thought leader and early cancer detection crusader Debra Zafiropoulos, RDH, widely known in the dental industry as Debbie Z.  

 

The mission of NCN is to raise awareness to prevent late stage diagnosis of visible forms of cancer through multiple platforms of prevention, protection, screening and referrals by creating acommunity of caring interdisciplinary professionals dedicated to disease prevention.

 

At the heart of NCN’s consumer and clinician awareness campaign is the introduction of a new dental exam protocol called “Screening for Oral and Skin Abnormalities” or SOSA™.  

 

NationalCancerNetwork™.org was designed to be a membership website that is fully accessible with resources and information such as the latest screening, diagnostic, active therapy, disease management, and nutrition as well as spiritual and emotional support.

 

This information will generate a resource library and a more informed opportunity for you to reach out to a practitioner, organization or manufacturer to serve your specific needs. So, whether you are a patient looking for a caring practitioner, a service provider looking to associate with an agency, or a caregiver seeking resources and solutions to assist those we love in fight of their life the National CancerNetwork™.org will be the resource to come to first!

 

# # #

Could Pine Tree Roots Help Filling Retention?

 

As dentists, we’re always looking for a way to improve what we do.  Now comes word from the University of Illinois at Chicago that perhaps an extract from pine tree bark could help decrease sensitivity and actually increase longevity of bonding restorations.

 

Since dentistry moved to predominantly composite filling materials, dentistry has become dependent on the chemistry of the bonding process to ensure quality and long lasting fillings.  The problem has always been that a great bond can be created between enamel and the materials, but a weaker bond exists between the materials and the dentin, which lies under the enamel.  

 

Researchers applied extracts of root bark from Chinese Red Pine.  Among other things, they discovered "the dentin was changed so that it was more compatible with resin fillings when they were applied to a tooth, binding to them more tightly”.

 

Obviously, more studies need to be done on this, but I’m guardedly optimistic about the potential for this.  I’m anxious for more science to be done.

 

The entire article can be read on the Dailymail website.  

OSAP Launches First Dental Infection Control Journal

 

March 27, 2017: (ATLANTA, GA) — The Organization for Safety, Asepsis and Prevention (OSAP), a community of clinicians, educators, consultants, researchers and industry representatives who advocate for the Safest Dental Visit™, has announced the launch of the Journal of Dental Infection Control and Safety, an online peer-reviewed, professional journal. The journal will contain previously unpublished scholarly articles on clinical practice and education, and scholarly and secondary research related to the practice of dental infection control and safety in oral health settings. 

The Journal of Dental Infection Control and Safety is a multidisciplinary, international journal that invites submissions from authors in all relevant disciplines and settings. Current topics of interest to the journal include: evidence-based practice, new initiatives, outcomes research, patient engagement, infection prevention and control, international and multidisciplinary issues, regulatory issues affecting dental healthcare professionals, patient safety topics, resident engagement and satisfaction, implementation of new technologies and innovations, the Institute for Healthcare Improvement Triple Aim, and issues confronted in clinical practice. Authors can submit manuscripts through the online portal at http://jdics.osap.org.

Dr. J. Hudson Garrett Jr. will serve as editor-in-chief of the new publication. Dr. Garrett is an OSAP board member and is co-founder and president of Infection Prevention Institute, Inc. and global chief clinical officer of Pentax Medical-Hoya Corporation. “The launch of OSAP’s peer reviewed journal could not be more timely given the tremendous ongoing challenges with infection prevention and control in the oral healthcare setting. The journal will serve as a place for translational research and dissemination of evidence based practices for infection control to all dental healthcare professionals”, said Dr. Garrett. 

“The journal is a natural extension of our goal to develop the dental infection preventionists of the future. By mentoring new authors and encouraging current writers to focus on these important topics, we aim to significantly add to the amount of science-based content for dental clinicians, educators, and consultants,” said OSAP executive director Therese Long, MBA, CAE. “In fact, there will be a special session at the OSAP 2017 Conference in Atlanta, GA on June 24 (http://osapconference.org) discussing opportunities to contribute to the new journal,” she said.

About OSAP

The Organization for Safety, Asepsis and Prevention (OSAP) is a growing community of clinicians, educators, consultants, researchers, and industry representatives who advocate for safe and infection-free delivery of oral healthcare. OSAP focuses on strategies to improve compliance with safe practices and on building a strong network of recognized infection control experts. OSAP offers an extensive online collection of resources, publications, FAQs, checklists and toolkits that help dental professionals deliver the safest dental visit possible for their patients. Plus, online and live courses help advance the level of knowledge and skill for every member of the dental team. For additional information, visit www.osap.org.

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Heraeus Kulzer Launches Artic® Digital Denture Teeth

 

 

New line combines economy with the precision and esthetics of CAD/CAM technology

South Bend, Indiana, February 7, 2017 –Heraeus Kulzer today announced the launch of Artic® Digital Denture Teeth, an innovative line of digitally designed and manufactured versions of the most popular moulds in the company’s Artic line of economy-priced conventional denture teeth.

The eleven Artic Digital anterior teeth are multilayered, life-like, esthetically pleasing teeth that permit perfect adaptation to existing dentition and to complete dentures. The six Artic Digital posterior teeth provide superior physiological function, accurate intercuspal relationship and perfect occlusion.

While these new, economy-priced CAD/CAM teeth can be used in any traditional denture setup, they are specially designed to work with My Digital Denture, Heraeus Kulzer’s private label digital denture system. My Digital Denture enables the laboratory to offer the exceptional fit and precision facilitated by digital technology while relieving its technicians of the challenging and time-consuming setup, waxing and design steps in the denture process. Heraeus Kulzer’s Pala Digital Design Center designs the setup and creates a 3D pdf for approval. This saves laboratory technicians over one hour per case, time that can now be redirected to other, more profitable work. Importantly, with My Digital Denture there is no change to workflow prior to setup for either the dental practice or the laboratory; the dental practice creates impressions as it always has, while the laboratory pours and scans models with bite rims based on those impressions.

“During the past two years, more and more dental laboratories, dental practices and patients have been discovering and benefiting from the superior precision, fit and productivity of digital dentures,” said Matthew Kayser, Heraeus Kulzer Product Manager. “Now, the combination of Artic Digital Denture Teeth and My Digital Denture makes these benefits more affordable than ever.”

Artic Digital is available in 17 shades: A1, A2, A3, A3.5, A4, B1, B2, B3, B4, C1, C2, C3, C4, D2, D3, D4, BL3.

For additional information about Artic Digital Denture Teeth, My Digital Denture and other Heraeus Kulzer products and services, please visit www.heraeusdentalusa.com.

About Heraeus Kulzer

Heraeus Kulzer GmbH is one of the world’s leading dental companies with its headquarters in Hanau, Germany. As a trusted partner, the company supplies dentists and dental technicians with an extensive product range, covering cosmetic dentistry, tooth preservation, prosthetics, periodontology and digital dentistry. More than 1,400 employees at 25 locations worldwide are driven by their expertise and passion for the dental market and embody what the name Heraeus Kulzer stands for: service, quality and innovation. In 2013 Heraeus Kulzer’s product turnover exceeded 400 million USD.

Heraeus Kulzer has been part of the Japanese Mitsui Chemicals Group since July 2013. Mitsui Chemicals Inc. (MCI) is based in Tokyo, and has 134 affiliates with more than 14,700 employees in 27 countries worldwide. Its innovative, practical chemical products are as much in demand in the automotive, electronics and packaging industries as they are in other fields such as environmental protection and healthcare. 

University of California, Irvine Study Shows OraCoat® XyliMelts® discs reduce plaque by over 50%

 

 

 

Study Demonstrated that OraCoat XyliMelts Effectively Improve Many Symptoms of Dry Mouth Including the Ability to Eat and Swallow

 

Bellevue, WA (March 22, 2017) – Researchers at the University of California, Irvine analyzed the effects of OraCoat^® XyliMelts^® oral adhering discs on people affected by clinically diagnosed dry mouth.The double-blind, randomized study demonstrated that XyliMelts reduce tooth plaque by 58% and improve the ability to eat and swallow in those affected by dry mouth.

 

Dry mouth is the subjective sensation of oral dryness that affects up to 60% of the elderly population, and is caused by various disorders and oral cancer treatments such as radiation to the head and neck. Additionally, a number of medications, including over-the-counter drugs such as antidepressants, decongestants, antihistamines, appetite suppressors, and diuretics produce symptoms of dry mouth. Dry mouth symptoms include a sticky, dry sensation in the mouth, tongue roughness, frequent liquid consumption, difficulty speaking and swallowing, and sleep disruption. 

 

OraCoat XyliMeltsis a patented dry mouth product that sticks to the gums on the outside of a molar, releasing one-half gram of Xylitol, which stimulates saliva, and cellulose gum which, combined with saliva, forms a lubricating gel. Xylitol, slowly released in the mouth so it lingers, is effective for reducing dry mouth and tooth decay. Moreover, XyliMelts used at night while sleeping when saliva flow is lowest is the most effective delivery of Xylitol.*

 

The 21-day clinical study evaluated in patients with dry mouth the effects of XyliMelts on saliva production and ability to neutralize acids, as well as patient comfort. The study was administered to five test subjects who used XyliMelts as recommended: two discs while sleeping, one on each side of the mouth, and as needed during the day. On average, the subjects used four discs each day during daytime hours.

 

Test results showed the clinical usefulness of XyliMelts for effectively relieving dry mouth. Researchers found that XyliMelts significantly reduced sleep disruption by lasting for six hours while sleeping, when dry mouth is at its worst, while improving mouth wetness upon waking in the morning. XyliMelts also diminished tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, and spicy foods and drinks. The adhering discs more than doubled saliva production while in place, and increased the ability of saliva to neutralize acids that cause tooth decay. Most importantly, the test displayed that subjects using XyliMelts in conjunction with standard oral care showed heightened saliva flow compared to standard oral care alone. XyliMelts not only alleviates symptoms of dry mouth, they also stimulate saliva production. 

 

Overall, subject feedback to XyliMelts was positive, with subjects stating that they would continue using the discs while recommending them to others. Subjects also reported XyliMelts as easy to use with a favorable taste and overall mouth feel.

 

The study was published on February 13, 2017, and can be found HYPERLINK "https://www.omicsonline.org/open-access/effects-of-a-novel-disc-formulation-on-dry-mouth-symptoms-and-enamelremineralization-in-patients-with-hyposalivation-an-in-vivo-