Scott+Scott Attorneys at Law LLP Files Securities Class Action Against Dentsply Sirona, Inc. (NASDAQ: XRAY)

 

Here's some more, and pretty detailed info, on the recently announced situation where Dentsply Sirona discontinued delivery of their Byte  clear aligner system.  As regular readers may remember, back at the end of October I made a post about the company suspending delivery of their Byte clear aligners.   That post included the press release from Dentsply Sirona about the reasons behind it voluntarily suspending sales of the Byte aligner product.

Now comes word that the company has been notified of a Class Action lawsuit filed in the United States District Court of New York.  The suspension of the Byte aligner product is involved in this.  This the second Class Action lawsuit filed (that I am currently aware of).  Read on for all the official info:

Scott+Scott Attorneys at Law LLP (“Scott+Scott”), an international shareholder and consumer rights litigation firm, has filed a securities Class Action lawsuit in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York against Dentsply Sirona, Inc. (“Dentsply” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: XRAY), and certain of its former and current officers and/or directors (collectively, “Defendants”). The Class Action asserts claims under §§10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (15 U.S.C. §§78j(b) and 78t(a)) and U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder (17 C.F.R. §240.10b‑5) on behalf of all persons other than Defendants who purchased or otherwise acquired Dentsply securities between February 28, 2022, and November 6, 2024, inclusive (the “Class Period”), and were damaged thereby (the “Class”). The Class Action filed by Scott+Scott is captioned: Calvin v. Dentsply Sirona, Inc., et al, Case No. 1:24-cv-09764 (S.D.N.Y.).

Dentsply manufactures professional dental products and technologies, develops, manufactures, and markets dental equipment, dental products, and healthcare consumable products.

The Class Action alleges that, during the Class Period, Defendants made misleading statements and omissions regarding the Company’s business, financial condition, and prospects. Specifically, Defendants failed to disclose to investors that it targeted low-income people with underlying dental issues that were ineligible for more traditional aligner treatment, Dentsply sold Byte aligners, a direct-to-consumer (“DTC”) aligner solution, to contraindicated patients, and Dentsply knew that its Byte aligners were causing severe patient injuries.

As the truth about Dentsply’s business reached the market, the price of Dentsply’s stock suffered significant declines, harming investors. For example, on November 7, 2024, before the market opened, Dentsply filed a Form 8-K with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission, reporting a significant downward revision to its 2024 outlook. Dentsply claimed that its revised 2024 outlook was “due to market pressures impacting U.S. equipment, legislative changes affecting the direct-to-consumer aligner business model, and the voluntary suspension of sales, marketing, and shipments” of Byte. On this news, the price of Dentsply stock fell $6.72 per share, or more than 28%, to close $17.26 per share on November 7, 2024, on heavy trading volume.

Lead Plaintiff Deadline

If you purchased Dentsply common stock during the Class Period and were damaged thereby, you are a member of the “Class” and may be able to seek appointment as lead plaintiff.

If you wish to apply to be lead plaintiff, a motion on your behalf must be filed with the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York no later than January 27, 2025. The lead plaintiff is a court-appointed representative for absent members of the Class. You do not need to seek appointment as lead plaintiff to share in any Class recovery in the Class Action. If you are a Class member and there is a recovery for the Class, you can share in that recovery as an absent Class member.

What You Can Do

You may contact an attorney to discuss your rights regarding the appointment of lead plaintiff or your interest in the Class Action. You may retain counsel of your choice to represent you in the Class Action.

About Scott+Scott

Scott+Scott has significant experience in prosecuting major securities, antitrust, and consumer rights actions throughout the United States. The firm represents pension funds, foundations, individuals, and other entities worldwide with offices in New York, London, Amsterdam, Connecticut, California, Virginia, and Ohio.

Dr. Howard Glazer Shares his Thoughts on Shofu

 

A short post today as things have been crazy for me.  

At the recent Greater New York Dental Meeting, the gang at DPR caught up with Dr. Howard Glazer.  He gives a rundown on some great products from Shofu.

Follow this link to read and watch Dr. Glazer.  See ya on Thursday!

American Dental Association Invests in Pearl to Advance AI in Dentistry

 

Here's some interesting news.  As the ADA has begun investing in dental companies, a lot of members and other dentists have followed this subject with interest.  Today comes news that the ADA has now invested in AI company Pearl.  Here are details of today's announcement.

Pearl, the global leader in dental AI solutions, today announced that the American Dental Association (ADA), the nation’s leading dental organization, has made a strategic investment in Pearl’s dental AI platform. The investment reflects the ADA’s commitment to supporting visionary companies whose disruptive technologies empower dental professionals to advance patient care and public health. The investment was led by the organization’s Innovation Advisory Committee, dedicated to identifying and supporting novel solutions that elevate dentistry.

“To evolve and serve the dental profession and the public, we focus on forward-thinking businesses that are re-envisioning the needs of the industry, both from a technology and clinical practice perspective,” said Roger Liew, Chair of the ADA’s Innovation Advisory Committee. “Investing in Pearl represents our ongoing commitment to transformational dentistry that positively impacts the industry as well as the oral and overall health of the public.”

Pearl was founded on the notion that artificial intelligence can serve the dental practitioner and patient in unique and meaningful ways.

“Pearl allows dentists to enhance the precision, efficiency, and confidence of their care, while retaining complete control in their clinical decision-making,” said Ophir Tanz, founder and CEO, Pearl. “These advanced tools add a cognitive layer to the digital dentistry workflow that enables practitioners to consistently achieve the highest standard of care when addressing the distinct clinical needs of every patient. This investment from the ADA –– which has been driving our industry forward for over 160 years –– affirms the importance of AI to the future of dentistry, and underscores the impact that companies like Pearl can have on redefining the way that dentists serve and care for their patients.”

About Pearl

Pearl is an AI-driven company committed to enhancing patient care in dentistry. Founded in 2019 by a team with decades of experience developing successful, enterprise-grade computer vision solutions, Pearl introduced the first-ever FDA-cleared AI capable of reading and instantly identifying diseases in dental X-rays. With regulatory clearance in 120 countries, Pearl's AI assists dentists in making precise clinical decisions and effectively communicating with patients, thereby transforming the dental care experience worldwide. As dentistry’s global AI leader, Pearl is committed to the ongoing innovation of robust, accessible AI tools that improve patient health outcomes and build greater trust in dental medicine. To request a demo, please visit hellopearl.com/getdemo

Paperplane Therapeutics Introducs Therapeutic VR Solution to US Dental Practices

Paperplane Therapeutics (paperplanetherapeutics.com), a software company creating therapeutic virtual reality (VR) experiences for patients, is pleased to bring its dental solution to the U.S. this fall.

Thanks to its immersive experiences, the programs developed by Paperplane Therapeutics transports patients of all ages into an interactive universe before or during a dental or medical procedure. These programs do more than simply distract patients; they provide a powerful multisensory experience that enables the brain to modulate the intensity of each stimulus. This effect leads to a reduction in anxiety and the perception of pain as patients enter a flow state.

With its dental virtual reality solution, Paperplane Therapeutics aims to help dental practices increase efficiency by reducing disruptions caused by patients’ anxiety about dental treatment. Studies have shown that the solution can save an average of 5 to 10 minutes per patient hour, allowing dentists to see more patients.

“As an ER physician, I have witnessed firsthand how a patient’s pain and anxiety can significantly impact the clinicians providing care,” said Dr. Jean-Simon Fortin, CEO of Paperplane Therapeutics. “By helping patients—especially children—remain calm and comfortable during dental procedures, we not only enhance their experience, but also lighten the load for clinicians, leading to improved job satisfaction and greater efficiency in healthcare delivery.”

How it works

Patients wear a VR headset and are immersed in a series of experiences that keep them focused on the virtual environment, rather than on any discomfort or fear they might have about their dental care. While most VR environments involve head movements and encourage limb interactions, dental patients need to remain still during treatment. The Paperplane Dentalcare technology is specifically designed for this purpose, allowing patients to stay calm and still. With this system, patients quickly adapt to remaining still, ensuring an uninterrupted VR experience with no cybersickness and no interference with ongoing dental/medical care.

Clinicians can control the experience shown in the VR headset from a smart tablet, which also displays what the patient is viewing. This setup allows clinicians to quickly launch the VR experience in less than a minute and ensure everything is functioning properly. The dental VR headset includes audio from the virtual environment, but patients can still clearly hear instructions from the clinician while wearing it. Additionally, a built-in camera allows patients to see and speak with clinicians without needing to remove or adjust the headset, enabling them to wear it comfortably throughout the entire appointment.

Paperplane Dentalcare is currently being evaluated in two large randomized controlled trials, where pilot phases have shown highly promising results—including significant benefits for special needs patients.

Main Characteristics of the Solution:

For Dentists:

• Turnkey solution for easy installation

• Simple for caregivers to use

• No interference with the healthcare team’s work—in fact, it saves them time and reduces stress

For Patients:

• Maximum and sustained distraction through a scientifically validated approach

• Measurable decrease in pain and anxiety

• Non-violent scenarios that create an immersive and soothing atmosphere

• Scalable design suitable for users of all ages

About Paperplane Therapeutics:

Founded in 2019 in Canada, Paperplane Therapeutics was established by a visionary and experienced team. Combining expertise in medicine and interactive entertainment, the founders set out to create therapeutic, interactive VR experiences. Their goal is to tangibly improve the care experience for both children and adults undergoing treatment or medical/dental procedures, whether in a clinic or hospital environment.

 

Learn Composite Dentistry at the Center for Esthetic Excellence in Chicago Announcing Spring 2025 Continuing Education Lectures / Hands-on Workshops

 

The Center for Esthetic Excellence, (CEE) has scheduled a lecture and hands-on workshop, entitled, “Full-Mouth Rehabilitation with Composite Resin,” presented by Dr. Javier Quirós, Thursday — Friday, 8:00 a.m. — 5:00 p.m., March 20-21, 2025. 

Start with esthetics, so the goal of treatment is to have a well-calibrated occlusion, anterior guidance, canine rise and posterior support. This course will teach you how to solve functional and esthetic problems in patients with full mouth disabilities. You will learn how to restore a worn-down dentition; how to present a treatment plan for a full mouth rehab; how to create a digital smile design, restore vertical dimension of occlusion; and how to transfer a full mouth wax-up into a full mouth of veneers and onlays.

See these links for more details: 

• March 20-21, 2025 at The Center for Esthetic Excellence in Chicago
• https://www.cosmedent.com/product/full-mouth-rehabilitation-with-composite-resin-2/
• Here is the website link to the full CEE 2025 In-Person course schedule:
• https://www.cosmedent.com/continuing-education/in-person-classes/?fwp_format=live-in-person

 

Please contact Erika Heier, by e-mail erika@cosmedent.com with any questions you may have or if you would like to register. 

Oclean - Give a Bright Smile for Christmas!

 

One of the best parts about what I get to do in my 'other job' outside of clinical practice is to tinker with new products.  Between my work with Dental Products Report and my product consulting, I get exposure to lots of new ideas, new concepts, and new companies.  One of those newer companies is Oclean, a company that makes oral hygiene products.

Everyone in the profession knows how much dentistry has changed with the influx of all things digital, but the entire home care space has changed as well.  Powered toothbrushes and water flossers (oral irrigators) are now mainstream consumer products.  I've seen estimates stating that the growth of powered toothbrushes will expand to $1.275 billion by 2032.  Obviously consumers love 'electric toothbrushes' and the benefits they provide.

So today, I'd like to make you aware of some products made by Oclean that I've been trying and have enjoyed using.  Patients have a lot of choices when they go to the oral healthcare aisle of a store and those choices can be overwhelming.   Lately, I've been impressed with powered brushes that have apps which connect the brush to your phone and offer live brushing coaching to help patients as they brush.  One of the toothbrushes from Oclean, the X Ultra S comes with that as part of the purchase and I am really glad they do.  This is especially true of the "Personalized Brushing Report" that the patient can review.  This is also a great feature for parents that want to check on their child's brushing habits or individuals who are taking care of an older family member.  Being able to check and make sure kids and adults needing elder care are taking care of their teeth is critical.

The company was founded in 2016 and has a line of both powered toothbrushes and powered interdental cleaners.  This fall I've tried several of their different devices and I'm happy to tell you that  I've had a good experience with all of them.  Now that we're in the full swing of the holiday season, some of you may be looking for gifts that won't put a big dent in your bank account.  Oclean products have performed really well and the fact that they are affordable is a plus.

Here's a list of the products I've tried with their features and suggested retail price:

• X Ultra S toothbrush
• Real-time voice AI guide
• Personalized brushing report to a smartphone
• Smart Touchscreen that gives instant feedback
• 5 modes
• $129
• X Pro Digital toothbrush
• Smart screen-missed areas instant feedback
• Supplementary brushing plan
• Tailor made & exclusive brushing modes
• $99
• Ease toothbrush
• Portable with lid for travel
• 2 brushing modes
• 2 minute smart timer
• 30 second timer for each quadrant
• $21
• W10 Water Flosser
• Cordless
• 1400 pulses per minute
• 200ml detachable reservoir
• 5 distinct modes
• 2 nozzles
• 15 second Quad timer & Smart timer
• $69
• AirPump A10 Water Flosser
• Pulses air water spray with each button push
• Palm sized and portable
• 3 modes
• $59

I've used all of these devices and have been really pleased with their performance.  You can find out more and see all of their products by visiting their website.  I believe some of their devices are on currently on sale, so you can get even better savings.

Mouthwatch Annouonces Winners of the 2024 Teledentistry Innovation Awards

 

MouthWatch, LLC, an industry leader in teledentistry solutions and digital imaging, recently announced the winners of the 7th Annual Teledentistry Innovation Awards, affectionately known as “The Tellies”.

Since 2017, the Tellies have recognized the innovative and dedicated providers, organizations, and programs that advance the adoption of virtual dental care to expand access to care and improve oral health via teledentistry and innovation.

The following Tellie Award winners were honored at a private event ceremony held in New York City during the recent Greater New York Dental Meeting:

Oral Health Program Innovator |  Peak Vista Community Health Centers | Dr. Meredith Hudson and Liz Flores, RDH 

The Peak Vista Community Health teledentistry program receives referred patients via TeleDent software and provides synchronous and asynchronous exams and care for patients who previously did not have access to dental services.  This transformative program affords patients access to exams, triage, treatment, planning, and referrals in a way they didn't have previously and can conveniently occur in the convenience of the patient's home, place of work, or car rather than having to travel to the dental clinic. 

Dental Hygiene Innovator  | Smiles Across Montana  | Crystal Spring, BSDH, RDH, LAP, FADHA

Smiles Across Montana (SAM) is a non-profit organization bringing access to care for children of all ages across the state. Hygienist Crystal Spring created this program to serve underinsured and uninsured children who deserve essential preventive dental services. Teledentistry enables this program to reach any and all locations who need its preventive care, while helping those who need more extensive care to a dentist as soon as possible. 

Dental Innovator | New York State Dental Association |Tony Mendicino Jr., DDS, Chief Dental Officer

Dr. Mendicino is a prominent community dental health educator and provider for the New York State Dental Association. He has played a significant role in promoting the integration and utilization of teledentistry in NYSDA’s support of Head Start Programs which perform screenings on school aged children, capture intraoral images and apply SDF fluoride varnish when prescribed. In order to provide approval for the application of SDF fluoride varnish, a dentist uses teledentistry to review intraoral images, then recommends treatment and/or provides approval for SDF placement. Follow-up synchronous video calls are also scheduled to further extend access to care. Dr. Mendicino's efforts have significantly increased the acceptance and growth of teledentistry for New York State.

Dental Education Innovator  | Idaho State University | Crystal Kanderis Lane, RDH, MS

Crystal Kanderis created an oral health program that expanded the use of teledentistry by utilizing Idaho State University nursing students. To date, Crystal, a nursing faculty member, and a trained dental hygienist have trained 112 nursing students across three cohorts to use MouthWatch Intraoral Cameras and TeleDent. These students have since participated in over 23 rotations with 8 to 16 students per rotation. During these rotations, they provided over 140 oral health screenings, and appropriate referrals.  In addition, they have applied over 110 fluoride varnish treatments. These quantifiable outcomes underscore ISU's commitment to enhancing access to preventive oral healthcare services for underserved communities across Idaho.

Dental Industry Innovator: Montshire Pediatric Dentistry| Dr. Jonathan Norris

Dr. Norris is a Board-Certified pediatric dentist practicing in southwest New Hampshire. His practice, Montshire Pediatric Dentistry, has 8 locations which have implemented a comprehensive set of innovative workflow solutions that enhance their approach to minimally invasive care while maximizing the scope of practice for their dental hygiene team. Montshire utilizes teledentistry as part of their innovative approach by enabling dentists to supervise hygienists and authorize the delivery of invasive care services to patients regardless of a doctor’s location. The result is a new standard for pediatric patient care. 

"This year's Tellie Award recipients are true pioneers, not only advancing oral healthcare but also overcoming the unique challenges that come with pioneering new care delivery models," said Brant Herman, Founder and CEO of MouthWatch and Dentistry.One. "By embracing teledentistry, technology and the persistence required to make an impact, these innovators are leading the charge at the forefront of change, breaking down barriers and redefining access to essential dental care for those who need it most."

To learn more about the Teledentistry Innovation Awards and this year’s winners, visit teledentistryinnovationawards.com.

Photo Caption: Pictured left-to-right are Dr. Jonathan Norris, Montshire Pediatric Dentistry; Tony Mendicino Jr., DDS, Chief Dental Officer, New York State Dental Association; Crystal Kanderis Lane, RDH, MS, Idaho State University; Crystal Spring, BSDH, RDH, LAP, FADHA, Smiles Across Montana; Liz Flores, RDH and Dr. Meredith Hudson, Peak Vista Community Health Centers.

About MouthWatch, LLC:

 MouthWatch, LLC, is a leader in developing digital technology solutions that drive success for dental professionals, improve oral health care, and enhance the overall patient experience.

Headquartered in Metuchen, New Jersey, MouthWatch is widely known for its intraoral cameras that help engage patients in treatment planning through high-quality, affordable imaging technology, and its TeleDent software that provides practices and organizations with a teledentistry option to engage patients with providers remotely. 

MouthWatch launched Dentistry.One, a virtual-first care network that addresses the expectations of today’s modern healthcare consumers, the need for greater efficiency in healthcare, and the proven connection between good oral health and total health. Dentistry.One features on-demand dental consultations, personalized care coordination, and oral health coaching for prioritizing oral health. 

MouthWatch hardware and software are in use at over 40,000 practices, over 40 leading Dental Service Organizations (DSOs), and over 100 dental and hygiene schools. The company has been recognized three times in the Inc. 5000.  For more information, visit mouthwatch.com. or dentistry.one.

Join Dr. Simon McDonald for Great CE on the QuickConnect Matrix Solution

 

As a lot of you probably know, I'm a big fan of outside the box thinkers.  Often incredible solutions keep coming from a few sources.  People like Leonardo DaVinci have a unique ability to imagine things that solve problems by coming at them in a way no one else would consider.

There are some people like that in dentistry... and one of them is Dr. Simon McDonald.  I've known Simon for probably two decades and I'm always impressed with his ideas.  Probably a lot of you don't recognize his name, but you'll recognize his designs and products.  He was the mastermind behind the Triodent (also known as the Palodent) sectional matrix system.

He is a dentist who lives in New Zealand and comes up with some of the best outside the box solutions I've ever seen and used.  I love hanging out with him because he's one of those people who you listen to and always come away with some incredible nuggets of knowledge.

On December 10th at 8:00pm you can have a chance to hang out with Dr. McDonald and be able to see exactly what I'm talking about.  He's going to present a webinar on his QuickConnect matrix system and I think you'll find the system something you, for sure, want to consider bringing into your routine.

The webinar is being sponsored by the good people at Goldendent and is hosted by another of my friends, Dr. Lorne Lavine.  Even if you can't attend, if you register the folks at Goldendent will send you a link to watch the event at your leisure.

This link will take you to the registration page.  

Dental Marketing Veterans Michael Ventriello and Mark Ross Join Forces to Form Personify Group, Dentistry’s Brand Growth Partner

 

I've had the good fortune to meet a lot of great people in my career.  Two of those people are Michael Ventriello and Mark Ross.  They are both involved in the marketing aspect of the dental industry.  Now they've combined forces to create Personify Group.  Read on for all the details:

Mark Ross and Michael Ventriello, the veteran dental marketing experts who introduced dentistry’s first virtual focus group platform; The Virtual Dental Team, as well as dentistry’s leading investor pitch deck service; PitchIt DDS, recently launched their most ambitious initiative to date;  Personify Group – Dentistry’s Brand Growth Partner.

According to Personify Group Co-Founder and Chief Marketing Officer, Mark Ross, “The dental industry is being disrupted by companies introducing new technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, 3D Printing, Robotic Surgery, Teledentistry and advances in Implant Dentistry. In order for these brands to succeed and thrive in a competitive marketplace, there needed to be a new non-traditional marketing partner – willing to disrupt alongside them with non-traditional growth solutions.”

Personify Group is built on six integrated pillars of brand growth acceleration. Its service offerings will include the following solutions categories: 

• Brand Development:  Audits, Corporate Identity, Story Creation, Virtual Focus Groups and Website development.
• Product Launch Services:  Beta Testing, KOL Unboxing Videos, Advertising, Public Relations, Return-On Branding™ Analysis.
• AI-Powered Technology: Lead Funnel Automation, Customer Journey Automation and Sales Conversion. 
• Investor Marketing: Investor Pitch Decks, Investor Introductions and Marketing Support for Venture Capital Portfolio Companies.
• -more-
• Training & Education: Dental Educator Network,  Future KOL Training, Virtual and On-Site CE Programs.  
• Content Development & Syndication: Blog, Podcast, Articles, Newsletters, Whitepapers and Social Media.

“Although there are many self-proclaimed disruptors entering the dental market, their marketing is very often yawn-inducing,” states Personify Group Co-Founder and Chief Communications Officer, Michael Ventriello.  “So much of the dental brand marketing that we see today not only lacks a creative spark, it simply isn’t memorable. This can be fatal when you consider that the average person is bombarded with 4,000 t 10,000 ads a day. Our goal is to help our clients rise above the noise.”

At the present time, the following dental industry experts have joined Personify Group as Advisor Partners: Amber Auger RDH, Dental Hygiene; Dr. John Flucke, Dental Technology; Dr. Thomas Jackson, Dental Implants; Tonie Koenig, Digital Automation; Dr. Jeremy Krell, Venture Capital; Paige Mead, Corporate Culture; Fred Pesce, Web/UX Development; Jim Shavel,  DSO Data Strategies Advisor.

For more information, visit www.personifygroup.com, or connect on LinkedIn.

About Personify Group: Founded by dental marketing experts Michael Ventriello and Mark Ross, Personify Group is redefining dental branding, marketing, and communications with an integrated mix of disruptive and dynamic solutions specifically designed to accelerate growth for dentistry’s disruptors – from startups to upstarts!

Founded by dental marketing veterans and creative strategists Michael Ventriello and Mark Ross, Personify Group is redefining best practices in story-telling, creative development, marketing technology, digital media, demand generation, influencer relations, product development, public relations, and investor marketing, in order to amplify the impact and growth potential for dentistry’s next generation of innovators. 

At GNYDM 2024: Owandy Radiology Disrupts Cone Beam Market with The AI-Enhanced I-Max 3D XPro

For those of you who are attending the Greater New York Dental Meeting, here's some important info about a new product announcement from Owandy.  This new device will be available to see and purchase at the meeting.  If you happen to be there, be sure to check it out and tell the Owandy folks I said hi! 

4-in1 Compact CBCT Unit Features AI Processing, Reduced Radiation, 16x11 FOV, Improved Resolution and Wall or Column-Mounted Options    

Owandy Radiology Inc., a global leader in the manufacture of dental radiology hardware and digital imaging software, will be unveiling the l-Max 3D XPro CBCT unit in booth #3614 at the Greater New York Dental Meeting in New York City. 

“The new, I-Max 3D XPro is the most advanced and versatile CBCT unit on the market, and like all Owandy innovations, it’s an outstanding value,” explained Owandy Radiology’s General Manager, Boris Loyez. “Available as a wall or column-mounted option that can fit in virtually any space, I-Max 3D XPro is redefining the cone beam x-ray category with its 2D, 3D, and CAD/CAM capabilities and other advanced features - making it the perfect choice for any dentist’s budget or office size.” 

I-Max 3D XPro also includes the following sophisticated features:

• AI Processing: Improves image quality up to 52%.
• Larger 16x11 Field of View: Enables full-jaw radiographs which are very useful for the diagnosis and treatment of TMJ and sleep apnea.
• New Smart Sensor Technology: Improved resolution up to 70 microns.
• Focus Scintillator Technology: Reduces radiation and increases
•  patient safety.
• QuickVision 3D Software: Ideal for guided implant surgery. Seamlessly imports STL. files from labs or digital scanners. 
• TruView Art Technology:  Produces sharper diagnostic images for more accurate treatment plans.
• Interoperability – Easily integrates with all practice management programs. 

“The Owandy I-Max 3D XPro is the sound year-end investment that will provide superior ROI and expanded clinical capabilities for years to come,” added Loyez. “See it for yourself at booth #3614 during the Greater New York Dental Meeting.”  

As part of this new product release, the first 25 buyers of the brand-new and innovative I-Max 3D XPRO CBCT will receive $10,000 off the regular price. To order, visit  https://www.imax3d.us

For more information about Owandy's full line of radiology and digital imaging products, visit www.Owandy.com, call 516-858-5695, or send an e-mail to sales@owandyus.com.  Distributor and DSO inquiries are always welcome.

About Owandy Radiology, Inc.: 

Headquartered in France, and serving North America from its newly-expanded sales, distribution and training facility in Garden City, New York, Owandy Radiology is a global leader in the manufacture of dental radiology hardware and imaging software. Its products are distributed through dental dealers across the USA, and in more than 100 countries world-wide, on every continent. For more information, visit www.Owandy.com.

Big Sale from Mouthwatch!

 

In keeping with my effort to let readers know about cost savings as the end of year approaches, here's a good one from the good people at Mouthwatch.

The company makes good great affordable intraoral cameras.  I happen to own use them every day.  The company is now making 'bundles' available for a short time, so if you're interested, click fast!  The promotions are as follows:

• Essentials Bundle:  includes 3 intraoral cameras, 1000 OptiClear  Sleeves, and 3 Wall Brackets.  You can save over $250
• Plus+ Pack: includes 1 Plus+ HD Intraoral camera, 1 intraoral camera, 500 pack of OptiClear Sleeves, and 2 wall brackets
• Build-Your-Own-Bundle: This deal gets you 15% off everything you order.

Remember, this is a limited time chance for savings, so make sure you follow the link to the deal you want.  Mouthwatch is a great company, great people, and great products.  Over the years I've gotten to know a few of the people there and I've always been impressed with them.  I also credit them with turning the intraoral camera market on its head.  The company was the first in the industry to come to market with intraoral cameras that were truly affordable *and* provided nice images.  I've been a customer for years.

Ultradent Halo Section Matrix Continues to Impress

 

If you are a restorative dentist, you're always looking for  a way to get great contacts on your posterior restorations.  We all occasionally struggle with getting good contacts and proper contours.  The idea, of course, is to recreate what nature provided, but that can sometimes be challenging.

Earlier this year, I got a chance to start working with Ultradent's new  Halo Sectional Matrix System and I've been using it for a few months now.

The Halo is a complete restorative sectional matrix system.  The kit comes with everything you need to take it out of the box and start using it right away.  

One of the really nice features is the 'pin tweezers'.  The bands have a small hole on both ends as well as on the top tab at the midpoint.  The pin tweezers are self-closing with a small pin in the jaws that allow them to engage the hole and securely hold the band for both delivery and removal.  It makes using the system incredibly easy.

The rings are stackable for multiple surface restorations.  They are nickel titanium and are engineered to be used over 1000 times.  They provide great separation and their grips hold the bands securely in place.

I also like the wedges which are V-shaped on the bottom.  That allows them to compress at the slimmest point in the interproximal box and expand across the entire gingival margin for a great finish line.

If you are looking for a new system or want to deliver your restorations with higher quality and lower stress, I think you should check out the Ultradent Halo.

You can  get more info on Halo by clicking this link.  

After clinical testing, this system is *highly recommended*.

Get 50% OFF Acuity X-Ray Sensor from AMD

 

The end of the year is rapidly approaching!  As I like to say, for some of us "Objects in calendar are closer than they appear".

With that in mind, some of my posts this month are going to be letting you know about sales being offered by manufacturers.  I know a lot of my fellow private practitioners are looking to take advantage of Section 179 for tax savings.  Because of that, I want to make sure that if you are looking to take advantage of the savings you'll be able to find some good ones sprinkled here until the end of the year.  I promise to give you my regular type of posts too, but saving money can be important.  Especially for private practices or recent graduates with significant student loan payments.

Today's post is a about great deal from AMD on their new Acuity digital x-ray sensor.  However the company is also offering some great deals on other items as well.

• Picasso Lasers
• Monet Laser Curing Light
• ZaPro Surface Disinfectant
• Laser Protective Glasses
• ClearView Blue LED Bulbs
• Picasso White Tooth Whitening Gel
• A few other items

Here is what the company is saying about the Acuity:

Acuity's Direct X-ray Photon Detection technology offers unparalleled precision, speed, and patient comfort. REALITY Ratings & Reviews, a leading dental products evaluation provider, described Acuity’s image quality as, “significantly better than the sensor we have been using,” and also stated, “Acuity produced … much more detailed and diagnostic images.”

Key Benefits of Acuity:

• Crystal-Clear Images: Highly detailed X-rays for confident diagnoses.
•  Faster Imaging: Streamline your workflow and see more patients.
•  Patient Comfort: Ergonomic design for a less invasive experience.

Black Friday Savings:

Take advantage of this phenomenal offer—50% OFF Acuity! According to REALITY Ratings & Reviews, “...with the Black Friday discount, we’re not sure why anyone would still opt to purchase a high-priced sensor.” 

Use code BLKFRI2024 at checkout to save big!

Don't miss this opportunity to upgrade your practice and provide exceptional patient care.

If you are interested, this link will take you to the page for the promotion on all four items.   

Get a $1,000 Rebate on DEXIS Scanners & More!

Heres some big savings news from DEXIS.  The end of the year is rapidly approaching and I know that a lot of doctors are wanting to take advantage of Section 179 savings before December 31.

To  help those of you who are interested, DEXIS has some really special pricing happening now.  

• Get a $1000 rebate of the DEXIS 2800W intraoral scanner
• Save $20,000 on the Orthopantomograph™ OP D™ EX
• Save over $200 on the Nomad™Pro 2
• Save over $500 on the DEXIS Ti2 intraoral Sensor

All of these deals can be found by clicking this link.  Enjoy the savings!

Planet DDS Accelerates Growth in 2024 With Product Innovation, New Partnerships, and Record-Breaking Revenue

 

-Planet DDS, a leading provider of cloud-based dental practice management solutions, is announcing several landmark accomplishments in 2024, cementing its position as a trailblazer in the dental industry. From new product improvements and partnerships, to fast-growing revenue and more, Planet DDS is poised for another record-breaking year.

Planet DDS made significant strides in product development throughout 2024, continuing to enhance its cloud-based solutions. Key developments included:

• Introduced DentalOS™: One of the standout achievements of 2024 was the launch of DentalOS, the industry’s first dental operating system, designed to address the pressing issues facing DSOs. Traditional dental software is broken—with inefficiencies, data silos, and a lack of flexibility that limits DSOs’ ability to scale and adapt. DentalOS is built to fix this by creating a customizable ecosystem through its open API platform, enabling seamless integration of third-party software and allowing DSOs to tailor-make their technology stack. This approach eliminates the restrictive nature of closed, proprietary systems and supports DSOs in achieving scalable, future-proof operations. In addition, Planet DDS released a comprehensive DentalOS eBook that introduces the new platform and its key benefits.

• Unveiled the Most Comprehensive and Open API Program: Planet DDS introduced its new open API program, to help DSOs enhance interoperability between tools, provide workflow customization, and improve security. Because the program allows DSOs and partners to seamlessly integrate various applications and facilitates synchronized data sharing, DSOs can realize new operational efficiencies.

• Enhanced Denticon and Added New Features: Planet DDS continued to advance its flagship product Denticon, launching a reimagined version that enhances practice management, patient communications, analytics, and marketing. In addition, the platform grew revenue by over 40% year over year, and the company is excited to announce that it recently surpassed $100 million in annual committed revenue. The company became the first dental practice management solution provider to achieve SOC 2 Type 2 certification across all of its products. It also launched Denticon’s single sign-on (SSO) feature to streamline access and improve security.

“2024 has been a banner year for us, with our sights set on accelerating the future of dental practice management,” said Eric Giesecke, CEO of Planet DDS. “We’re going beyond innovating our technology—we’re reshaping the dental industry as we know it by setting a new standard of how DSOs work and delivering a roadmap to the future. These key milestones have proven our cloud-based technology is driving the industry forward.”

Planet DDS has continued to forge key partnerships in 2024, expanding its technological capabilities:

• VideaHealth Integration: The new partnership with VideaHealth makes Planet DDS the first dental imaging solution provider to integrate with all three major AI companies—Overjet, Pearl, and VideaHealth. This integration enables dental practices to choose their preferred provider and leverage AI for enhanced imaging capabilities and improved diagnostic accuracy.

• Revenue Cycle Management (RCM) Enhancements: In partnership with DentalXChange, Planet DDS integrated the XConnect APIs earlier this year into Denticon to streamline insurance processes. The enhanced RCM workflow improves efficiency in claims processing, eligibility verification, and payment posting.

Throughout 2024, Planet DDS has continued to expand its customer base, while also introducing programs to support dental groups of all sizes:

• New Notable Customers: Notable DSOs, including SEVA Dental, Smile Doctors, DecisionOne Dental, Five Points Dental Specialists, and Chord Specialty Dental Partners, have all adopted Planet DDS solutions this year. Smile Doctors, in particular, has surpassed 400 locations using Cloud 9, while DecisionOne Dental and Chord Specialty Dental Partners have implemented Denticon and Cloud 9 across their practices. Additionally, Imagen Dental Partners, a dental partnership organization with over 100 locations, recently joined as a new customer.

• New Launchpad Program to Help Emerging Groups Scale: Planet DDS unveiled its Launchpad Program, a unique initiative designed to democratize access to cloud solutions for emerging dental and orthodontic groups looking to scale and grow. Available to new customers, eligible groups have access to the best-in-class practice management and imaging solution features at 80% savings, plus education and support from a team of growth experts.

Accolades Highlight Remarkable Growth and Industry Leadership

Additionally, Planet DDS has received significant recognition for its sustained growth trajectory. They climbed to No. 1,599 on the Inc. 5000 list, a significant leap from No. 3,376 in 2023 and No. 2,489 in 2022, and earned the #3 spot for Fastest Growing Medium Sized Companies with the Orange County Business Journal. For the second consecutive year, Planet DDS has earned a spot on the prestigious 2024 Deloitte Technology Fast 500 list, securing spot #352 with a 333% growth rate over the past three years.

With these accomplishments, Planet DDS is well-positioned for continued success throughout 2024 and beyond. As the company scales its client base, elevates its product offerings, and leads in technological innovation, it remains committed to transforming the dental industry with cloud-based solutions that drive growth, efficiency, and improved patient outcomes.

About Planet DDS:

Planet DDS is the leading provider of cloud-enabled dental software solutions, serving over 13,000 practices in the United States and having over 118,000 users. The company delivers a complete platform of solutions for dental practices, including Denticon Practice Management, Apteryx Cloud Imaging, Cloud 9 Ortho Practice Management, and Legwork Practice Marketing. Planet DDS is committed to creating value for its dental practice clients by solving the most urgent challenges facing today’s dental practices nationwide. To learn more, visit: Planet DDS.

TXPROS Announces New Partnership with Pac Dent

 

I've been using PacDent products for years and I've always been impressed by their quality, not to mention their affordability.  Here's some new info about their partnership with ITXPROS

ITXPROS, a leading provider of digital dentistry solutions, is proud to announce its latest collaboration with Pac Dent, a leading manufacturer of advanced 3D printing resins. This partnership allows ITXPROS to distribute Rodin Resin products in USA including Rodin Titan and Sculpture 2.0: game-changing resins specifically engineered for dental prosthetic design applications.

“We are incredibly excited and proud to partner with Rodin 3D Resin,” said Ahmad “AK” Khater, CEO at ITXPROS. “This collaboration enhances our ability to provide dental professionals with cutting-edge materials for their prosthetic design needs, reinforcing our commitment to advancing digital dentistry.”

• Rodin 3d Resins offer several key benefits:
• Superior detail resolution for precise dental models
• Excellent durability and stability
• Biocompatible formulation
• Optimized for rapid printing with minimal shrinkage

This strategic partnership strengthens ITXPROS’s position as a one-stop solution for dental practitioners while increasing Pac Dent’s reach to provide their advanced 3D printing resins to more dental professionals.

About ITXPROS

ITXPROS is a leading digital dentistry provider. Based in Tampa, FL, ITXPROS offers innovative technology solutions for implant treatment planning and CAD/CAM design. Founded by a team of dentists, CAD engineers, and executives, ITXPROS combines over 150 years of collective experience to provide unique solutions for dental practices and laboratories, elevating the standard of care through advanced technology.

https://www.itxpros.com

About Pac Dent

Founded in 1992, Pac-Dent, Inc. is a leading manufacturer and wholesale distributor of high-quality dental products. With a strong commitment to excellence, the company has built a solid reputation for delivering superior products and exceptional customer service. Pac-Dent continually adapts to meet the evolving needs of its customers, offering the latest technologies and innovations in the dental industry. Focused on quality and cost-effectiveness, Pac-Dent ensures its products help customers succeed while maintaining competitive prices. Dedicated to customer satisfaction, the company is known for going the extra mile to support its clients’ business growth.

www.pac-dent.com

Dental Products Report Courses at the Upcoming Greater New York Meeting

 

If you are planning on attending the upcoming Greater New York Dental Meeting, there is more information for you!  I won't be attending this year, but in addition to the great list of speakers the meeting has put together, the gang at DPR has also got some great CE for you as well.

DPR has put together a list of four great speakers that will be there.  Here is that list...

To register for the Greater New York Dental Meeting, follow this link.

Join Me on Thursday Night for 3D Printing Webinar from DPR

 

As I've posted here previously, this year I have done a 'deep dive' into the world of 3D printing. 

I've worked with several companies and several resins to see just how far we've come with 3D printing... and we've come *a long way*.  I remember seeing a 3D printer in about 2017 at a major meeting and, as a geek and tech lover, I was impressed.

I even went so far as to order an extrusion printer (which is NOT recommended for dentistry), and built it from a big box of unassembled parts.

However, as I took the time back then to really look into it, I saw some limitations.  Now, those limitations are off!  Fabricating things in-office has made tremendous advances in the last couple of years and it is only getting better.  As I type this, I'm currently printing an orthodontic retainer and a flexible (soft) occlusal guard.

3D printing is an amazing technology and now, at long last, it's easy!  Trust me, if I can do this anyone can.

So if you can, join me on Thursday night at 7:00pm Eastern for a webinar on 3D printing.  I'm going to cover the basics and hopefully encourage some of you to explore what this tech has to offer.  I'm having a blast doing things in-office on a regular basis and you can too!  

Just click this link to register.  It's going to be a fun 60 minutes!

You can earn one CE credit and it's being provided free of charge.  I hope a lot of you can make it.

Attention Students: NASA Launches Power Systems Student Essay Contest

 

Twelve-year-old, Aadya Karthik of Seattle, Washington; nine-year-old, Rainie Lin of Lexington, Kentucky; and eighteen-year-old, Thomas Lui, winners of the 2023-2024 Power to Explore Student Writing Challenge observe testing at a NASA Glenn cleanroom during their prize trip to Cleveland. Photo Credit: NASA 

Growing up as a kid who always loved science, was doing chemistry experiments in the basement, and taking things apart just to see how they worked, I've always loved NASA.  Along those lines, our society *needs* kids who are interested in STEM to continue to move things forward.

That's why today's post is about a chance for kids to engage with science and NASA!  Any of you who know a youngster who might be interested, be sure to pass this along to them.  It's a tremendous opportunity for students with a dream of working on the journey into space.

I'm a NASA fan and this a *great* opportunity for students looking to engage with them.

You can also check out the following links:

• RPS Launch video
• RPS Technology Explainer
• Official challenge graphics
• More info on the RPS visit
• NASA Press Release

Below is the information about the program straight from the folks at NASA:

NASA’s fourth annual Power to Explore Student Challenge kicked off November 7, 2024. The science, engineering, technology, and mathematics (STEM) writing challenge invites kindergarten through 12th grade students in the United States to learn about radioisotope power systems, a type of nuclear battery integral to many of NASA’s far-reaching space missions.   

Students are invited to write an essay about a new nuclear-powered mission to any moon in the solar system they choose. Submissions are due Jan. 31, 2025. 

 With freezing temperatures, long nights, and deep craters that never see sunlight on many of these moons, including our own, missions to them could use a special kind of power: radioisotope power systems. These power systems have helped NASA explore the harshest, darkest, and dustiest parts of our solar system and enabled spacecraft to study its many moons.  

 “Sending spacecraft into space is hard, and it’s even harder sending them to the extreme environments surrounding the diverse moons in our solar system,” said Nicola Fox, associate administrator, Science Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters in Washington. “NASA’s Power to Explore Student Challenge provides the incredible opportunity for our next generation – our future explorers – to design their own daring missions using science, technology, engineering, and mathematics to explore space and discover new science for the benefit of all, while also revealing incredible creative power within themselves. We cannot wait to see what the students dream up!” 

 Entries should detail where students would go, what they would explore, and how they would use radioisotope power systems to achieve mission success in a dusty, dark, or far away moon destination.  

 Judges will review entries in three grade-level categories: K-4, 5-8, and 9-12. Student entries are limited to 275 words and should address the mission destination, mission goals, and describe one of the student’s unique powers that will help the mission.  

 One grand prize winner from each grade category will receive a trip for two to NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland to learn about the people and technologies that enable NASA missions. Every student who submits an entry will receive a digital certificate and an invitation to a virtual event with NASA experts where they’ll learn about what powers the NASA workforce to dream big and explore.  

 Judges Needed 

NASA and Future Engineers are seeking volunteers to help judge the thousands of contest entries anticipated submitted from around the country. Interested U.S. residents older than 18 can offer to volunteer approximately three hours to review submissions should register to judge at the Future Engineers website.  

 The Power to Explore Student Challenge is funded by the NASA Science Mission Directorate’s Radioisotope Power Systems Program Office and managed and administered by Future Engineers under the direction of the NASA Tournament Lab, a part of the Prizes, Challenges, and Crowdsourcing Program in NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate.  

 To learn more about the challenge, visit:  https://www.nasa.gov/power-to-explore/  

 

Garrison Dental Solutions Launches Loop™ Curing Light with Closed Loop Technology

 

Here is a super interesting idea for a curing light.  The new Garrison Loop™ promises to give you the right cure by calibrating the distance between light and target.  For years I've been a fan of putting a sleeve on the curing light, not only for infection control (which is critical), but also because then you can put the light directly onto the target tooth without getting bits of bonding agent stuck to the lens. 

I've been in a lot of offices in my career and I've watched a lot of other doctors work.  Many times the light will be applied and then the operator will turn away to protect their eyes.  Often times when the operator turns, the light moves off the target (sort of like drifting in your lane when checking your blind spot.)  Of course, when the light moves away from the target, the intensity of the cure drops.

The Loop™ has a sensing technology that gauges the distance and increases intensity which compensates for the distance.

I received one on Friday and I will start putting it through it's clinical paces in the next few days.  I'll report back after some clinical experience.

In the meantime, here is the press release from Garrison Dental...

 

SPRING LAKE, Michigan –– Garrison Dental Solutions, a pioneer in dental innovation, is proud to introduce its latest breakthrough in light curing technology: the Loop™ Curing Light. This state-of-the-art curing light brings groundbreaking precision and consistency to restorative dentistry, enhancing clinician confidence with every cure.

The Loop™ Curing Light features a revolutionary closed-loop algorithm that dynamically adjusts light output to deliver the exact energy needed for a perfect cure every time. Loop ensures that the right dose of energy reaches the tooth, minimizing the risk of under-curing or over-curing. By continuously measuring and adjusting power output more than 500 times per second, Loop eliminates guesswork and allows for consistent curing across all restoration surfaces, regardless of hand positioning or distance.

Loop offers multiple modes, including Direct Restorative Mode with three power levels (1,000, 2,000, and 3,000 mW/cm²) for varied curing times and a specialized Tack Mode for securing materials. The built-in LED display provides intuitive real-time feedback, enabling seamless navigation through settings while confirming selected modes and remaining cure time at a glance. This streamlined control empowers clinicians to work with accuracy and efficiency.

The Loop™ Curing Light is equipped with a broad-spectrum dual-wavelength LED system that ensures consistent spectral beam homogeneity. This guarantees thorough activation of all photo initiators, covering a wavelength range from 390nm to 480nm, regardless of the material being cured. The expansive 9.7mm lens diameter and real-time adjustments maintain uniform irradiance even as the distance between the light and tooth surface varies, resulting in an effective beam diameter of 13 mm at 10 mm distance from the target.

Loop simplifies maintenance with a self-calibration feature. Daily lens checks and monthly full calibration cycles ensure optimal performance, preventing issues such as lens debris or LED degradation. The Loop system includes a calibration and charging base, protective sleeves, and other accessories, backed by a 3-year limited warranty.

About Garrison Dental Solutions

Established in 1996, Garrison Dental Solutions is a privately held company dedicated to advancing the quality and efficiency of dental care. As a global leader in sectional matrix systems and other dental innovations, Garrison’s products are trusted by clinicians worldwide. For more information, visit www.garrisondental.com

 

Thomas Jackson, DDS Introducing Smyles Above Innovations During “The Great Oral Health Pitch” at GNYDM 2024

 

In advance of the Greater New York Dental Meeting later this month, here's a new company that is making their debut at this year's GNYDM.  I received this info recently and thought I'd pass it along...

Thomas Jackson, a practicing periodontist, prosthodontist, and successful inventor recently founded Smyles Above Innovations Inc., a company dedicated to developing and commercializing leading-edge dental devices and oral care products that support the continuum of dental implant success from placement to maintenance, and advanced flossing tools for hard to access oral appliances.

Dr. Jackson will formally introduce Smyles Above Innovations during The Shils Entrepreneurial Fund’s “Great Oral Health Pitch,” which is taking place at the 2024 Greater New York Dental Meeting on Monday, starting at 2:30 PM.

According to Dr. Jackson, “Smyles Above was established to incorporate my two existing products IrriGUIDE and The AutoFlosser under one corporate umbrella to create more effective synergy and salability across our branding, operations and sales and to make our company more efficient and more attractive to investors.”

Dr. Jackson’s goal for additional funding is to invest in additional product development and to expand the sales and marketing support of his two existing and well-received product innovations:

IrriGUIDE: An easy-to-install retrofit adapter developed by Dr. Jackson for any dental implant surgical guide system. IrriGUIDE enables saline to flow through the guide and directly irrigate and cool the implant osteotomy to keep it below the critical temperature threshold of 47°. 

The AutoFlosser: A unique dental floss solution specifically designed by Dr. Jackson to alleviate flossing difficulties for all-on-X patients and anyone who has been fitted with connected or solid appliances such as implants, bridges, braces, and bonded retainers.

Philips and Aspen Dental Launch multi-year Sonicare-brand Partnership

 

Here's some info on an interesting development in the industry.  Philips Sonicare and Aspen Dental have formed a collaboration to bring Sonicare products into Aspen Dental offices.  Aspen is one of the largest DSOs in the industry with over 1,100 offices.

Industry leaders collaborate to offer Philips clinically proven tools and resources to Aspen Dental patients, providing better care for more people

Royal Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA), a global leader in health technology, today announced a partnership with Aspen Dental®, the largest group of branded dental offices, to bring Philips Sonicare, the No.1 dental professional-recommended sonic toothbrush brand worldwide, to Aspen Dental's national network of over 1,100 locations. Aspen Dental's clinicians will now be able to offer Philips Sonicare solutions in office, including Philips Sonicare ExpertClean, which uses built-in smart sensors to guide a patient's brushing. Practices will also spotlight Philips Sonicare Cordless Power Flosser and Philips Sonicare Teeth Whitening Kits, the brand's latest offerings in power interdental cleaning and at-home teeth whitening, providing patients with a full suite of at-home solutions and expanding access to comprehensive oral care.

Philips and Aspen Dental share a mission to empower dental professionals to deliver better care to more people. The Philips Sonicare portfolio of clinically proven power toothbrushes and interdental cleaners are trusted solutions to help patients achieve a healthy smile between dental visits.

"Our purpose is to improve people's health and well-being through meaningful innovation and Aspen Dental is the perfect partner to help continue to make that vision a reality," says Matina Vidalis, Senior Marketing Director, Consumer & Professional Oral Healthcare, Philips North America. "We're committed to working with Aspen Dental's network of dental professionals to introduce our evidence-based solutions to their patients. Together, we can help provide more people with access to the quality dental care they need both in and out of the chair." 

Chairside education will also be at the center of this collaboration, with Philips introducing their new Path to Health Toolset to all Aspen Dental practices. Developed in partnership with behavioral scientists and dental professionals, the toolset seamlessly integrates into the natural workflow of dental practices. It is designed to help quickly learn a patient's health goals, drive case acceptance through patient education and support dental professionals and patients on a path towards health together.

"Making sure Americans have access to quality dental care is a priority for Aspen Dental that extends well beyond a visit to one of our offices," says Cameron Jones, RDH, BSDH, Vice President of Hygiene Operations at Aspen Dental. "We are proud to offer new solutions from Philips Oral Healthcare to our patients nationwide and pair them with the work our best-in-class practitioners provide on a daily basis."

Philips Sonicare products are available now at Aspen Dental. Visit PhilipsOralHealthcare.com and AspenDental.com to learn more.

Don't Miss the Cyber Security Webinar this Friday!

 

This Friday, I'll be partnering with Gary Salman, CEO of Black Talon Security, on a webinar we've titled "Winning the Cyber War: A Battle Plan to Protect Your Practice".

There are a lot of myths and misconceptions surrounding security and best practices.  Just like, as a dentist, I'm not qualified to perform an appendectomy, many doctors trust their security to either themselves or 'computer guys' that are really great with helping offices run, but are woefully under skilled to evaluate and perform security against threats.

The unfortunate truth is that the people who deal in ransomware, encryption attacks, and data theft are highly skilled professionals.  Many of them have college degrees in Computer Science and they are incredibly good at what they do.

Cyber Security requires vigilance and experts that have your back.  Gary and I are going to go over some best practices and recommendations to decrease your likelihood of having to deal with these types of threats.  I've been at the tech game for quite a while and I've seen a lot of changes.  The current environment requires offices to be vigilant about their security.

Join Gary and I this Friday to learn how you can do more to prevent a security disaster from happening!

You can read more about the course and register here.  

Delta Dental of Massachusetts Partners with Smile Generation to Launch Novel Program Using Saliva-Based Screenings to Detect Periodontal Disease Earlier

 

Here's some interesting news about an effort being made by Delta Dental of Massachusetts.  I recently received this press release and thought it was something readers should be aware of.  If you are a Delta Dental provider, assuming it performs as promised, you may be hearing more about this as other Delta state offices implement it...

 Delta Dental of Massachusetts (DDMA), the largest dental insurance carrier in Massachusetts, is introducing a groundbreaking program aimed at early detection of periodontal (gum) disease using saliva-based screenings. This novel initiative, running through July 2025, offers patients a more holistic approach to oral health by identifying disease risk early, with the goal of preventing serious systemic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes.

In a first-of-its-kind effort for a dental insurer, DDMA is collaborating with six Smile Generation offices in Massachusetts to offer these chairside saliva screenings at no additional cost to its members. The program’s goal is to use saliva to educate patients on their periodontal health risks and offer personalized care to mitigate those risks.

As part of the “Healthy Body Enhanced Benefit Program,” eligible members will not only receive the saliva-based screenings but also additional benefits such as extra dental cleanings, personalized education, and take-home medications — all designed to address their specific periodontal disease risk at no extra out-of-pocket cost. This initiative represents a proactive approach to oral health care by focusing on prevention rather than treatment.

“Gum disease is far too prevalent and is largely preventable,” says Anthony Falone, DMD, MS, owner and practicing dentist at Waltham Modern Dentistry, one of the participating dental practices. “This program allows us to intervene earlier with personalized treatments, using non-invasive saliva screenings to catch disease progression before clinical signs of disease are visible to the naked eye.” 

Nearly half (42%) of all adults aged 30 years and older have some form of gum disease, with severe periodontitis affecting about 8% of adults (CDC, 2024). Research continues to demonstrate a strong connection between oral health and overall health. Periodontal disease, if left untreated, can exacerbate systemic conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease, significantly increasing overall health care costs. Early detection, through the use of these saliva screenings, is crucial in reducing those risks.

The saliva-based test measures levels of active matrix metalloproteinase-8 (aMMP-8), a biomarker that indicates active collagen breakdown in the gums—a key sign of periodontal disease. Identifying elevated aMMP-8 levels allows dentists to detect gum disease progression earlier than clinical symptoms appear, enabling timely, personalized interventions to prevent the progression of both oral and systemic diseases.

The program is available at six Smile Generation-trusted offices in Massachusetts, including Arsenal Modern Dentistry, Burlington Dentistry, Dentists of Attleboro, Milford Dentist Office, Shrewsbury Dentistry, and Waltham Modern Dentistry. These saliva screenings, typically not covered by dental insurance, will be available at no additional cost for DDMA adult members at these participating offices.

DDMA hopes the learnings from this innovative program will enable a greater focus on patient-centered care for all stakeholders and will ultimately inform our approach relative to covered benefits and reimbursement.  

“We are committed to enabling optimal oral health for our patients through the adoption of innovative solutions and collaboration with our participating dentists. By working together, we can improve our patient oral health outcomes and more broadly their overall health,” says Kirill Zaydenman, Vice President of Product Strategy and Transformation Delta Dental of Massachusetts.