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.  

Biotech Company Integral Dental Enters Market for Treatment of Peri-Implantitis

 

WASHINGTON D.C. Oct./30/2024 – Today Integral Dental announces the launch of its first product, OraclePI, the only early diagnostic test for peri-implant disease. The test delivers a disease diagnosis and personalized care plan recommendations based on patient specific data. Dental implants represent an important option for patients with missing teeth. While implant success rates are high, the greatest risk of failure is an infection of the surrounding tissue, called peri-implantitis. Integral’s new product, OraclePI enables clinicians to gain insight into 100% of the bacteria present at the implant site, diagnoses the state of infection, and makes recommendations on most effective antibiotics and other treatments. “This has the potential to improve patient outcomes and drive profitability for dental practices,” said Rachel Raymond, CEO of Integral Dental. “As the demand for implants grows, we’re excited to offer an option for personalized management.” 

By combining cutting-edge genomic sequencing and AI, OraclePI empowers dentists with actionable insights to improve patient outcomes through personalized care. “We’ve worked hard to make sure our processes fit seamlessly into the daily workflow of the dental office,” said Matt Getz, COO of Integral Dental, “our $110/test cost to dentists is part of the innovation we’re bringing to the table.” Earlier interventions in peri-implant disease are often more effective and less invasive than if they are performed at more advanced stages of infection. Performing a diagnostic test as part of routine implant management can help clinicians identify problems early and keep their patients healthy. “The specific antibiotic recommendations give us the opportunity to practice true personalized medicine,” said Dr. Peter Joseph, DMD, Clinical Advisor to Integral Dental, “I plan to integrate this tool into my practice and ask all my referring doctors to do the same. The better the information, the better we can help patients.”  

Diagnosing peri-implant disease is just the beginning for Integral’s technology platform. Integral’s vision extends beyond oral health to addressing systemic diseases triggered by oral pathogens, such as cardiovascular disease, pre-term birth, rheumatoid arthritis, and colon cancer. When we diagnose and treat oral pathogens early and effectively, healthcare costs reduce precipitously, and patient outcomes improve. Integral Dental continues to explore innovative applications for OraclePI, building bridges between oral health and broader medical care.

Call to Action:  OraclePI  is now available for purchase and is being offered in 10 kit packs for a limited time. To learn more and add Integral to the services offering your patients, visit  IntegralDental.bio. 

About Integral: Integral is a biotechnology company dedicated to closing the gap between oral and systemic health. The innovation is based on Next Generation Sequencing and Machine Learning technology and driven by co-founders Rachel Raymond and Matt Getz. The founders bring extensive biotech and healthcare executive experience, MBAs from Harvard Business School, and a passion for preventative medicine to this large, global health problem. Integral is a resident company of Johnson & Johnson Innovation - JLABS, a premier life science incubator program in Washington, DC. 

Dentsply Sirona Provides Update on Byte Aligner Products - Company Suspending Sales of Byte Alingers

Here is some info for any doctors that might have been using Dentsply Sirona Byte Alingers.  This comes from a recent company press release...

Voluntarily Suspends Sales and Marketing of Byte Aligners and Impression Kits

CHARLOTTE, N.C., Oct. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- DENTSPLY SIRONA Inc. (“Dentsply Sirona” or the "Company") (Nasdaq: XRAY), today announced the voluntary suspension of sales and marketing of its Byte Aligners and Impression Kits while the Company conducts a review of certain regulatory requirements related to these products. The Company’s decision was made in consultation with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

In connection with this review, and Dentsply Sirona’s proactive efforts to continuously improve its processes, the Company has suspended shipment and processing of new and recently placed orders for Byte Aligners and Impression Kits.

The Company holds itself to the highest standards of quality and compliance with patient safety at the center of everything we do. To that end, we will continue to work closely with the FDA and other regulatory authorities, while communicating with treating dentists and their patients to support their continued care as appropriate.

Independent of the above matter, the state regulatory environment has adversely impacted our Byte Aligner business model, resulting in declining conversion rates, and new documentation, records and additional requirements (such as evidence of visits to a dentist or patient x-rays). As a result, we had begun to assess our resources at Byte to leverage and/or redeploy infrastructure, talent, and capability elsewhere in our business. Examples include augmenting resources to improve other software platforms, accelerating DS Core functionality, and enhancing the patient experience.

Additional details regarding today’s announcement can be found in the Company’s Form 8-K that was filed today with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Select Preliminary Third Quarter 2024 Results

Dentsply Sirona is also announcing select preliminary financial results for the three months ended September 30, 2024 (“third quarter 2024”). The Company expects to report third quarter 2024 net sales of approximately $951 million and adjusted EPS is expected to be between $0.49 and $0.51. For the third quarter 2024, the Company expects to report year-over-year net sales growth in Essential Dental Solutions, partially offset by

declines in Orthodontic and Implant Solutions and Connected Technology Solutions segments. Wellspect Healthcare net sales are expected to be approximately flat due to timing with a large US distributor. Net sales and adjusted EPS were favorably impacted by a shift in the timing of distributor orders for Essential Dental Solutions products from the fourth quarter into the third quarter of approximately $20 million associated with the Company’s planned fourth quarter ERP implementation in North America. The Company does not provide preliminary estimates of EPS on a GAAP basis as certain information needed to prepare adjustments is not yet available and cannot be reasonably estimated. A description of the adjustments typically made to compute adjusted EPS can be found in Exhibit 99.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on July 31, 2024.

The Company expects to record non-cash charges for the impairment of goodwill within the range of $450 - $550 million, net of tax, pertaining to two of its reporting units, Orthodontic Aligner Solutions and Implants & Prosthetic Solutions, which together comprise the Orthodontic and Implant Solutions segment. The decline in fair value for the Orthodontic Aligner Solutions reporting unit is driven primarily by adverse impacts from state regulatory trends pertaining to the Company’s Byte Aligner business, while the decline in fair value for the Implants & Prosthetic Solutions reporting unit is driven by weakened demand in conjunction with competitive pricing pressures and adverse impacts of ongoing global conflicts in certain markets, as well as lower long-term expectations for volumes of lab materials. These factors contributed to reductions to forecasted revenues, lower operating margins, and expectations for lower future cash flows in the near term, resulting in an impairment during the third quarter for the aforementioned reporting units.  

The Company will evaluate and assess the appropriate next steps for Byte, with the goal of continuing to provide access to quality oral care to underserved populations. In connection with this assessment, the Company may incur additional impairments and write-offs regarding this business, which may be material in the current and future periods.

The preliminary estimates above are based solely upon information available to management as of the date of this press release and are subject to change. The Company’s actual results may differ materially from these estimates due to the completion of its quarter-end closing procedures, final adjustments and developments that may arise or information that may become available between now and the time the Company’s financial results are finalized and included in its Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2024.

Dentsply Sirona will provide further updates on the business and its performance including an update to its 2024 full year outlook during its third quarter 2024 earnings call, which has been scheduled for November 7, 2024.

About Dentsply Sirona

Dentsply Sirona is the world’s largest manufacturer of professional dental products and technologies, with over a century of innovation and service to the dental industry and patients worldwide. Dentsply Sirona develops, manufactures, and markets a comprehensive solutions offering including dental and oral health products as well as other consumable medical devices under a strong portfolio of world class brands. Dentsply Sirona’s products provide innovative, high-quality and effective solutions to advance patient care and deliver better and safer dental care. Dentsply Sirona’s headquarters is located in Charlotte, North Carolina. The Company’s shares are listed in the United States on Nasdaq under the symbol XRAY. Visit www.dentsplysirona.com for more information about Dentsply Sirona and its products.

Forward-Looking Statements and Associated Risks

All statements in this Press Release that do not directly and exclusively relate to historical facts constitute “forward-looking statements.” Such statements are subject to numerous assumptions, risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in such statements, many of which are outside of our control, including those described in Part I, Item 1A, “Risk Factors” of the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023 (the "2023 Form 10-K"), and other factors which may be described in the Company’s other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). No assurance can be given that any expectation, belief, goal or plan set forth in any forward-looking statement can or will be achieved, and readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such statements which speak only as of the date they are made. We do not undertake any obligation to update or release any revisions to any forward-looking statement or to report any events or circumstances after the date of this Press Release or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. Investors should understand it is not possible to predict or identify all such factors or risks. As such, you should not consider the risks identified in the Company’s SEC filings to be a complete discussion of all potential risks or uncertainties associated with an investment in the Company.

Curadont Samba is Here!

The Sambra toothbrush has arrived.  As you may remember, I recently posted about this interesting new brushing device that basically brushes your teeth for you, with little physical effort needed by the user.

I'm happy to say that the company wasted *no* time in getting it to me.  I inquired about a sample unit to try and they were incredibly responsive.  I love follow through!

Samba was developed by Curaprox to provide users with a thorough cleaning without the effort required to manually move the brush into all the proper areas.  Many patients have trouble with accessing all areas of their teeth properly and the idea of Samba is to take that part of the routine out of the process.

The 'U' shaped brush is simply put over an entire arch and then activated to brush every surface simultaneously.  The user holds the brush in position and then presses the 'On' button and Samba does all of the work.  It turns off automatically and then the user flips it over and repeats the process on the opposite arch.

Personally, I've taken a greater interest in helping people with their home care since I saw my dad decline in his later years.   Many older adults lose manual dexterity as they age and brushing their teeth can suffer from that.   There are also many patients who, for many reasons, lose or lack dexterity and I feel that a device like this could be a tremendous benefit for those type of people as well.

Even younger patients often don't understand proper brushing technique and my opinion is that it would be much easier to give them a device such as Samba and *know* things are being taken care of as opposed to educating them in the office and then *hoping* they understand and follow through at home.

I'm going to put the Samba through my own personal home care routine and let you know how it goes.  It is currently charging as I type...

I'm grateful to the good folks at Curaprox in sending me a device to evaluate.  I'll let you all know how it goes...

MUSC Digital Post-grad Program Struggling

 

Occasionally I get some not so great information and today's post is about one of those subjects.  I recently spoke to someone off the record about the profession's first digital dentistry post graduate program.  The program is offered by MUSC (Medical University of South Carolina) College of Dental Medicine.  It is a "two-year clinical program with an emphasis on prosthodontic rehabilitations using multiple digital and analog systems to restore routine to complex patients".  Doctors who complete the program receive a degree "MSD (Master of Science in Dentistry, College of Dental Medicine, Digital Dentistry Track). 

As most of you know, I've been involved with digital dentistry since the very early days of my career and have made it my life's work to  deliver information about it to the profession.  Digital technologies have allowed dentistry to make incredible leaps forward.  Doctors now have the opportunity to provide treatment that is exponentially better than ever before.  Advancements have created 'totally digital workflows' with amazing outcomes.

I was thrilled when I learned that MUSC had started their post graduate program because that is exactly what the profession needs.  Many schools currently teach a mixture of analog and digital systems.  While these current educational programs allow doctors to graduate with a high degree of competency, many new graduates are then in need of learning how to incorporate the true digital aspects of practice.  This normally requires a serious financial investment in continuing education.  While established doctors have the financial wherewithal to do that, recent graduates are saddled with significant student loan debt.  When you add to that the costs of setting up a new office, debt loads can be severe.  Coming up with the money to then educate themselves about all the digital systems is often not possible.

That's why I was so excited about the MUSC program.  It allows doctors to get a post graduate focus on all the digital tools and how to incorporate them together.  The benefits of something along those lines would be a tremendous help to doctors and patients.

Unfortunately what I'm hearing is that the program is struggling... and that is unfortunate.  Digital systems are only advancing and doctors need knowledge and exposure to these systems to be able to integrate them into their practices for maximum benefit and impact.

Hopefully what I'm hearing is only a bump in the proverbial road.  Sometimes good ideas simply take a bit to catch on and any business goes through cycles of expansion and contraction.  I support MUSC in their decision to setup this program and I hope it continues.  The profession needs forward thinking projects like this to help prepare for the future.

I didn't get any specifics in my conversation, but I'm hoping for the best.

Another Post on the Importance of Security and Ways to Help

 

First of all, the way to help.  On Friday November 8th I'll be giving a webinar on data security in the dental office.  However,  while I'm passionate on the subject doctors need an expert to listen to.  That's why the webinar will  be a tag team effort by myself and Gary Salman who is the CEO of Black Talon Security.  As the CEO of a data security firm, Gary knows this subject forwards and backwards.  Click here to register.

The second thing I want to bring up today is about the severe penalties that can be meted out by the federal government *and* affected individuals for violations of HIPAA.  There are many reasons why data security is incredibly important, but if for no other reason, doctors should be concerned about the costs incurred with these types of security situations.

I'm not going to mention the practice by name, but in February 2023 (between the 17th and 22nd), a DSO with over 300 offices experienced a data breach that compromised PHI (Protected Health Information) of patients.  

In addition to the fines, affected business operations, etc that come along with these incidents, there was also a class action lawsuit filed by some of the patients.  Recently the DSO settled the lawsuit filed by the patients for $2.5 million.

I truly think that doctors should look at data security as 'insurance' and not as a 'nice to have'.  No locked door is 100% effective, but becoming a more difficult target certainly means that threat actors will go after less protected systems.

If you'd like to learn how to help avoid these kinds of situations, join Gary Salman and I on November 8th.  

 

A short post today as most of the info will come from the video above.  

Last week, I did a post about the special Compendium issue that has a lot of info about the Philips Sonicare Power Flosser.  It's interesting to me how well these devices work.  Most people tell me they dislike flossing, so I feel that anything the profession can provide them that cleans well between the teeth with greater ease than flossing is definitely a good thing.

After the post went up, I was lucky enough to be able to get the video above that shows how well the device works.  The device uses  Quad Stream technology which allows for greater coverage.  Basically the water exists the tip in an 'X' shape which allows the user to get better coverage without having to work at it.

The direction of the stream is important when using an irrigator and the thing that is nice about Quad Stream is that because the water strikes the teeth and gingival tissues at several angles, it makes it easier for the device to reach into all kinds of difficult to reach areas with less effort.  A single stream will work, but having multiple angles makes it more efficient and less technique sensitive.  You get a really good view of this in the video.

Some offices sell these directly to patients, but they are also available at most major retailers as well.

Don't Miss the Dr. Nate Lawson Webinar Tonight!

 

I mentioned this not too long ago, but I want to re-emphasize this course because I think it's that important.  Tonight at 7:00pm Eastern Time, there is a great webinar being given by Dr. Nate Lawson.

Every doctor works in the anterior region and the profession has all kinds of choices in techniques and materials to provide the best aesthetic results possible.

Dr. Lawson is not only a materials genius, since he runs the UAB Division of Biomaterials, but he also practices clinically so he understands the struggles of being 'in the trenches' with the rest of us.  He's got a great way of explaining things that will quite simply, make your anterior composites better.

The webinar is FREE and you can also get one CE credit for attending.

Follow this link to register.

Here's the course info:  

Materials and Techniques for Anterior Composites

Tue, Oct 22, 2024 7:00 PM EDT

This lecture will cover different types of composites for anterior restorations. We will discuss advantages and limitations of single shade composite. We will also cover injection molding and have a conversation about adapting and polishing anterior composites.

Learning Objectives:

• Learn advantages and limitations of single shade composite.
• Learn about materials for injection molding.
• Learn materials and techniques to adapt and polish composite.

Course Details:

• AGD Subject Code: 250
• CE Credit: Catapult Education, LLC designates this activity for 1 continuing education credit.
• Audience: Dentistry Professionals
• Cost: Free
• Method: Live Webinar Lecture

Sponsored By:  SDI

Meet the Instructor:

Nathaniel Lawson, DMD, PhD, is the Director of the Division of Biomaterials at the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Dentistry and the program director of the Biomaterials residency program. He graduated from UAB School of Dentistry in 2011 and obtained his PhD in Biomedical Engineering in 2012. His research interests are the mechanical, optical, and biologic properties of dental materials and clinical evaluation of new dental materials. He has published over 200 peer reviewed articles, book chapters, and research abstracts. He was the 2016 recipient of the Stanford New Investigator Award and the 2017 Innovative Research Fellowship both from the American Dental Association. He served on the American Dental Association Council of Scientific Affairs and is on the editorial board of The Journal of Adhesive Dentistry and Compendium. He has lectured nationally and internationally on the subject of dental materials. He also works as a general dentist in the UAB Faculty Practice.