Dental Marketing Veterans Mark Ross and Michael Ventriello Team Up Again to Launch PitchIt DDS, An Investor Presentation Service for Dental Start-Ups

 

It's always a good feeling to see your friends do well.  I think that's especially true when your friends are embarking on a new and exciting journey.  I've known Mark Ross and Michael Ventriello for more years than I can remember.  They're both in the dental marketing - ad agency space part of the industry and are truly what I refer to as "quality human beings".  Thy are good guys and both really good at what they do!  

If you are a company who is looking for ways to talk to investors about your product or services, this might be just what you are looking for.  So with that being said, I'm happy to provide today's post with info about their new adventure called PitchIt DDS.  

Here is the info they'd like you to know:

Mark Ross and Michael Ventriello, the veteran dental marketing experts who joined forces in 2023 to launch dentistry’s first virtual focus group platform, The Virtual Dental Team (VDT), recently teamed up again to introduce PitchIt DDS - an investor presentation creation service specifically for dental start-up companies as well as existing healthcare and technology companies planning to enter the oral-care market.

Designed to be a complimentary or combined service with VDT, PitchIt DDS is fueled by the combined 50 years dental product and company launch experience and insights that Ross and Ventriello will apply to each pitch deck they create on behalf of dental industry founders and start-ups.

“Dentistry is entering an exciting era of innovation and investment,” said Ross. “However, because there are so many new companies vying for investor funding, it’s more critical than ever for a dental start-up to make a compelling pitch that will stand out from a crowded field and in turn, persuade angel investors, private equity firms and venture capital firms alike to provide the funding needed to propel next level growth.”   

The PitchIt DDS presentation creation service can also be used for the following applications:

• Investor Pitch Decks

• Sales Presentations

• Strategic Partner Pitch Decks

• KOL Lecture Slides

• Training Presentations

“Mark and I have seen many investor presentations during private fundraising dinners and public “Shark Tank” events where the fund-seeking company’s technology may have had a tremendous potential for improving workflows and patient care, but the pitch fell flat due to a variety of weaknesses in research, branding, messaging, design, and delivery,” commented Ventriello. “Although heavily invested in R&D, many dental start-ups fumble when it comes to making the clear, concise, and compelling pitch needed achieve their fundraising goals. A dynamic investor presentation from PitchIt DDS can help avoid that scenario.”       

For more information about PitchIt DDS visit this link or contact Mark Ross at Mark@RossCommGrp.com.

About Mark Ross:

Mark is the owner and founder of  Ross Communications is a leading brand development and marketing agency with more than 30+ years of experience in developing successful branding and marketing campaigns for some of the dental industry’s most innovative companies. For more information, visit www.RossCommGrp.Com.

About Michael Ventriello:

Widely regarded as the “Dental Product Launch Expert,” Michael is the owner and founder of the PR-forward dental marketing agency Ventriello Communications. He is an award-winning copywriter who specializes in developing strategic marketing communications and public relations programs for game-changing dental products, services, and companies. Michael is also a published author and dental industry pundit. For more information, visit www.Ventriello.com.

Dental Products Report Announces Spring Selection 2024!!!

 

Last year, for the first time ever, DPR (my fave publication) did a bracket competition to determine voters overall favorites of some of the best dental products on the market.  This year, we are at it again!

My good buddy and Editorial Director at DPR is Noah Levine and this thing is all his idea and his hard work.  Last year, Noah basically coded the entire thing himself, which I am incredibly proud of him for.  Suffice it to say it's a good thing the guy has a full head of hair, becuase I'm sure he lost some with all the work. he put into making this happen.

You can reward Noah for his hard work, as well as helping the bracket process, by heading over the DPR Spring Selection and voting for your favorites every week.

Curious who the competitors are?  This is your chance to check out the process and let your voice be heard.  Follow this link to start selecting.  

Join Me Tomorrow for the virtual CE Event Increasing Diagnostic Accuracy With Artificial Intelligence

 

Tomorrow April 25th at 10:00am eastern (9:00am central) plan on taking an hour out of your day to join me for the FREE webinar Increasing Diagnostic Accuracy With Artificial Intelligence.  

I've been involved with using and evaluating AI dental systems for over 8 years and over that time I have gained some incredible experience and I've seen phenomenal progress in what these systems can do.

I can tell you with great confidence that the time to start incorporating AI into your clinical workflows is NOW.   Every day that I am seeing patients, I have a tab open in my browser to access our AI system and I have come to depend on what that system provides me.

We are *much* more efficient from a time management standpoint as our efficiency has increased tremendously through using AI.  However, better diagnostic capabilities is just one piece of what AI can do for you.  We've also seen a huge jump in patient understanding and case acceptance.

At this point in time, you've probably heard tons of info about AI, but you may still have questions about what it can do for you and what changes it can make in your practice.  This one hour event will help answer any questions you may have and will also set you up for success.

You will earn 1 CE credit and the event is FREE!!!

You can register by following this link.  I'm super excited to be presenting and I hope to see many of you there!

Spike in Measles Cases Could Reverse US Elimination Status

The science is overwhelming that vaccines work.  Unfortunately, in these days of instant information people have access to practically anyone's opinion... right or wrong.  These "sources" of information that declare vaccines are evil and cause all kinds of scientifically unproven complications have frightened many parents.  Of course, everyone wants what is best for their children and I salute that.  Caring for our next generations is noble and we should all be focused on making things better for those who follow us.

However, fear mongering about vaccines has led many well meaning families to refuse needed vaccinations for their children.  Due to that, we are seeing a rebound of measles cases here in the Untied States.  At one point in time, measles was more or less eradicated within the US, but no longer.  

The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) puts out a weekly report referred to as MMWR (Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report) and this report dated April 11, 2024 goes into the details of the increase of measles cases here in the US.

The best way to help eliminate measles and the unnecessary suffering that comes with it is by vaccination.  The full report has lots of useful information for those interested.

The report can be accessed with this link.  

However, there is one part of the report that I'd like to provide here:

Summary

What is already known about this topic?

Although endemic U.S. measles was declared eliminated in 2000, measles importations continue to occur. Prolonged outbreaks during 2019 threatened the U.S. measles elimination status.

What is added by this report?

During January 1, 2020–March 28, 2024, a total of 338 U.S. measles cases were reported; 29% of these cases occurred during the first quarter of 2024, almost all in persons who were unvaccinated or whose vaccination status was unknown. As of the end of 2023, U.S. measles elimination status was maintained.

What are the implications for public health practice?

Risk for widespread U.S. measles transmission remains low because of high population immunity. Enhanced efforts are needed to increase routine U.S. vaccination coverage, encourage vaccination before international travel, identify communities at risk for measles transmission, and rapidly investigate suspected measles cases to reduce cases and complications of measles.

Increasing Diagnostic Accuracy With Artificial Intelligence

 

My teaching/lecturing schedule has been busy lately.  It's funny how things like this come in waves.  If you are a practicing dentist, like me you probably have days where it seems like almost every patient on the schedule seems to have a problem with tooth #30 or things like that.  I've always wondered how the stars align to create these things...

Now on to today's post.  Next Thursday, April 25th at 10:00 am EDT, I'm going to be presenting a webinar titled "Increasing Diagnostic Accuracy With Artificial Intelligence".  I'm doing this lecture in conjunction with Dental Products Report where I serve as Chief Dental Editor & Technology Editor.  

The event is one hour and if you attend, you can qualify for one hour of CE credit.  I'll be covering how I use AI in my clinical practice while also discussing how it can improve workflows and provide for better, more predictable patient outcomes.  I hope that many of you can join me!

If you'd like to be part of it, and I be honored if you are, here is the link to register.  

Here is the promotional info that DPR has posted about the event:

Increasing Diagnostic Accuracy With Artificial Intelligence

In the last 5 years, artificial intelligence (AI) has seen explosive growth in our personal and professional lives. As that growth continues, it is imperative that doctors keep abreast of the amazing advancements in diagnostic accuracy and practice efficiency. Using AI-enhanced radiographs helps the doctor and team, and serves as a tremendously powerful tool to help patients better understand their problems and solutions.

Learning Objectives:

• Better understand the evolution of artificial intelligence (AI).

• Learn how AI enhanced radiographs can better aid in diagnosis and education.

• Learn how AI is a necessary tool for doctors and team members to use for every patient.

Course Details:

• AGD Subject Code:010, 730

• CE Credit: Catapult Education, LLC designates this activity for 1 continuing education credit.

• Audience: Dentistry Professionals

• Cost: Free

• Method: Live Webinar Lecture

CDOCS Welcomes Dr. Dan Butterman as New Faculty Chair, Setting Course for Advanced Innovation in Digital Dentistry Education

 

Scottsdale, AZ (April 16, 2024) — CDOCS, the world’s largest community of digital dentists and the leading provider of digital dentistry education, proudly announces the appointment of Dr. Dan Butterman as its new Faculty Chair. With a distinguished career spanning three decades in the dental field, Dr. Butterman brings a wealth of knowledge, experience, and vision to his new role at CDOCS, where he has already been serving as an esteemed member of the Resident Faculty since 2019. During this time, he’s taught thousands of dentists at CDOCS’s hands-on workshops [Hands-On Workshops] and traveled the world as a leading dental KOL.

His appointment marks a pivotal moment for CDOCS as it aims to expand its influence and  continue its mission of transforming dental education through technology and community.  

“I am incredibly honored to take on the role of Faculty Chair at CDOCS,” Dr. Butterman said.  “This opportunity allows me to contribute to a community that is at the forefront of dental education. My goal is to ensure that we not only keep pace with the evolving landscape of modern dentistry but also set new benchmarks for excellence and innovation.”

Under Dr. Butterman’s leadership, CDOCS is set to embark on a well-balanced, integrated path, as his vision includes enhancing the curriculum with a focus on comprehensive education that encompasses both the technological aspects of dentistry and the critical soft skills required for practice management. Dr. Butterman emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to dental education, one that prepares practitioners not just in the technical use of digital tools but also in navigating the challenges of running a modern dental practice.

“One of the aspects I’m most excited about is developing a curriculum that reflects the complete ecosystem of the dental practice. From mastering cutting-edge digital dentistry techniques to navigating patient relations and practice management, our aim is to offer a well-rounded educational experience that supports our members in all facets of their professional development,” Dr. Butterman elaborated.

Dr. Butterman’s approach to education is rooted in the belief that a sense of community and mutual support is fundamental to the learning process. He plans to foster an environment where CDOCS members can share experiences, learn from each other, and collectively push the boundaries of what’s possible in dental practice.

“Innovation doesn’t happen in isolation. It’s the result of passionate individuals coming together, sharing ideas, and challenging each other to think differently. That’s the culture we want to cultivate at CDOCS,” Dr. Butterman added.

To drive this innovation, he firmly believes in the importance of staying clinically active to maintain relevance in education.

“It’s critical that I continue practicing dentistry,” Dr. Butterman said. “It’s amazing to me how quickly you lose touch stepping away for a short amount of time.” This dedication ensures that CDOCS’s curriculum remains not only up to date but also grounded in practical, real-world applications.

Looking forward, Dr. Butterman is committed to expanding CDOCS’s reach and impact. His plans include the introduction of new courses and workshops designed to keep practitioners at the forefront of dental technology and patient care. In addition, he aims to strengthen the community aspect of CDOCS, building an even more vibrant and supportive network of dental professionals across the globe.

For more information about CDOCS and its programs, please visit CDOCS.com.

About CDOCS

CDOCS, a Spear company, is the world’s largest community of digital dentists and the leading provider of digital dentistry education, equipping dental professionals with the clinical training and resources to achieve modern dental excellence. Since 2006, CDOCS has empowered members through specialized educational tracks, hands-on workshops led by experienced faculty, and supported by the world’s largest community of modern dentists. Whether new to digital workflows or a seasoned practitioner, CDOCS offers membership tiers to support continuous skill development and practice growth. As the premier destination for modern dental technology education, CDOCS is committed to helping members thrive in the digital age.

For more, visit CDOCS.com.

ReGen Bioactive Endo Sealer: A Revolution in Root Canal Treatment

 

I recently returned from teaching a hands-on class on Low Stress Endodontics for the General Practitioner at LVI Global.  I absolutely *love* endodontics and I also *love* teaching my peers.  If I can help even one doctor provide better treatment, who knows how many patients that can impact?

At that recent course, I introduced the doctors to a new endo sealer that I have been using for over a year with amazing results.  It's the ReGen Bioactive Endo Sealer which was created and is manufactured by Vista-Apex.

There are several bioactive endo sealers now on the market, but in my opinion, the ReGen sealer offers some notable advantages.

For dentists seeking a root canal sealer that goes beyond basic closure, the Vista-Apex ReGen Bioactive Endo Sealer offers a groundbreaking approach. This innovative product leverages bioactivity to not only seal the canal but also potentially promote healing and strengthen the tooth.

Bioactivity: The Power of Regeneration

Unlike traditional sealers, ReGen Bioactive Endo Sealer incorporates bioglass technology. This unique material releases calcium (Ca) and phosphate (PO4) ions, mimicking the natural components of tooth structure. These ions can potentially stimulate the remineralization of dentin, the hard tissue beneath the enamel.

Benefits of Bioactive Sealing:

The incorporation of bioactivity in ReGen Bioactive Endo Sealer offers several potential advantages:

• Enhanced Sealing: The released ions contribute to a tighter seal at the interface between the filling material and the dentin, potentially reducing the risk of leakage and future problems.

• Promotes Healing: By stimulating dentin remineralization, the sealer may encourage the tooth to repair itself, potentially leading to a stronger and more resilient structure.

• Reduced Microleakage: Traditional sealers can develop microscopic gaps over time. ReGen Bioactive Endo Sealer's bioactive properties may help minimize this issue, contributing to                    long-term treatment success.

Additional Features for Optimal Performance:

Beyond its bioactive properties, ReGen Bioactive Endo Sealer boasts several features that enhance its clinical performance:

• High Radiopacity: Ensures clear visualization on X-rays, allowing for accurate placement, verification, and monitoring.

• Quick Setting Time: Saves valuable treatment time by allowing dentists to move on to the next steps of the procedure efficiently.  Some doctors prefer to perform endo and a crown on the same apportionment and the fast set helps in this regard. 

• Excellent Biocompatibility: Minimizes the risk of allergic reactions or tissue irritation.

• Easy to Use: The user-friendly formula simplifies the application process for smooth integration into existing workflows.

• MST: stands for "Material Saving Tip".  The kit comes with a small cannula that allows for minimal waste while also allowing for accurate sealer placement.

A Leap Forward in Root Canal Treatment:

The ReGen Bioactive Endo Sealer represents a significant leap forward in root canal therapy. By harnessing the power of bioactivity, it offers the potential for:

• Improved Long-Term Outcomes: The combination of enhanced sealing and potential for dentin remineralization may contribute to a more durable and successful root canal treatment.

• Enhanced Patient Care: The biocompatible nature and focus on healing can potentially lead to better patient outcomes and potentially reduced risk of complications.

A Note from myself as a clinician:

As a dentist, I'm always looking for innovative technologies that can improve patient care and clinical outcomes. The ReGen Bioactive Endo Sealer is a product I'm excited about, with its potential to offer a new level of effectiveness and long-term success in root canal treatment. If you have any questions about this product or root canal procedures in general, please don't hesitate to contact me.

Dentists ask court to certify class action in lawsuit against Delta Dental

 

Here's an interesting bit of news from the industry.  For quite sometime this has been discontent from practicing dentists about reimbursement from Delta Dental.  Over roughly the last decade, Delta Dental has been working diligently to lower he amounts it pays to dentists for procedures performed on Delta covered patients.

Costs for dental offices have increased precipitously since the pandemic.  This is especially true when it comes to salaries.  Many dental hygienists and dental assistants left the profession during the pandemic and chose not to return afterwards, moving on to other jobs.  In order to find qualified employees dentists were forced to offer higher wages.  There is also the fact of simple business costs such as professional supplies.  As these costs have increased, Delta Dental continued to strive toward decreasing reimbursements to doctors.  Many doctors are diligently looking for ways to decrease their costs while continuing to provide the best patient care possible.  However, there is only so much cost cutting one can do.

In order to help doctors in this situation, the ADA filed a class action lawsuit alleging that Delta Dental violated antitrust laws by agreeing to reduce reimbursements to participating dentists through territorial restrictions, fixed pr ices for specific dental goods and services, and restricted competition from other competitors in the dental reimbursement industry.

The court’s ruling on whether to certify the case as a class action will be an important milestone in the litigation, according to the ADA’s legal division. Under the court’s current scheduling order, Delta’s response to the plaintiffs’ class certification motion is due on June 18, followed by additional discovery and further briefing to be completed by Dec. 19. At the conclusion of the briefing, the court will set a date for a hearing on the motion for class certification. Following the court’s ruling on the issue of class certification, the court will set a schedule for further pre-trial proceedings.

The story appears in the ADA News and can be found here.

If you would like to read the full class action filing, it can be found here.

Sharper Vision, Smarter Dentistry: The New Kavo Diagnocam Vision Full HD

One of the best parts of my job, outside of clinical dentistry, is getting to work with and try amazing new pieces of technology.  I'm about to start a Test Drive for Dental Products Report on a new device from Kavo.   You can expect a video on the DPR website as well as a written advertorial about the device in the not too distant future.

It was unveiled at the recent Chicago MidWinter meeting in Chicago and now I've got one in my hands and I'm excited to see what it can do in use clinically.  Here's a brief post about it to give all of you an idea of what it is & what it can do.  I will follow up more once my clinical testing and evaluation are completed.

Unveiling Exceptional Detail:

The Diagnocam Vision Full HD takes intraoral diagnostics to a new level with its high-resolution, 5-megapixel sensor. This translates to stunning image clarity, allowing dentists to visualize even the most minute details of the oral cavity. From pinpointing subtle cracks in enamel to examining intricate root canal anatomy, the enhanced resolution empowers a more confident and accurate diagnosis.

Beyond Resolution: A Feature-Rich Powerhouse:

The Diagnocam Vision Full HD isn't just about impressive resolution. It boasts a range of features designed to optimize the workflow and elevate the overall experience:

•Enhanced LED illumination: Ensures consistent and bright lighting across the entire image field, eliminating dark spots that can obscure crucial details.

•Live image optimization: Provides real-time adjustments for color and contrast, allowing you to capture perfect images every time.

•Seamless integration: Works seamlessly with most dental software programs for a smooth workflow.

Benefits for Both Dentists and Patients:

The device offers a multitude of advantages for both dental professionals and their patients:

• The device is a 3-in1 that features an intraoral camera, transillumination, and fluorescence caries detection. 
• Dentists: Experience a new level of diagnostic accuracy and improved communication with patients by being able to capture & show all 3 image types, show them on the patient monitor and save them in the digital chart.
• Patients: Benefit from a more comfortable imaging experience with a smaller head, and potentially earlier detection and treatment of dental issues.

The Future of Intraoral Imaging:

The Kavo Diagnocam Vision Full HD represents a significant advancement in intraoral imaging technology with its 3-in-1 imaging. With its exceptional image quality and the communication it provides, it positions itself as a valuable tool for modern dental practices. Whether you're a seasoned dentist or just starting, the device is a compelling way to both diagnose and communicate with your patients.

 

Dental Laser Coaching Launches On-line Dental Laser Training Portal

 

Virtual Curriculum  Kicks-Off with Free Webinar: "Do More with Your All-Tissue Laser"

As the landscape of laser dentistry continues to evolve, Dental Laser Coaching (DLC) recently launched  its new online dental laser training portal. View available laser courses here. New courses will be added over time.

While traditional live laser training sessions remain valuable, the advent of user-friendly online platforms has democratized access to comprehensive laser coaching. This is why the DLC Portal will feature an innovative online curriculum, designed to empower a wider audience of dental professionals to  effectively optimize their laser technology. Whether a practitioner has owned a laser for one month or one-year, the DLC Portal is designed to guide their journey towards success.

According to Company Founder and CEO Nick Clausen, “Our mission is to ensure that all laser owners maximize the full benefits of their investments.  With over two decades of experience collaborating with major laser manufacturers and dental practices nationwide, the DLC Portal will offer a unique online approach that accelerates the achievement of desired results.”

Laser dentistry provides a host of benefits for patients and practitioners alike. A laser’s precision allows for minimally invasive treatments, reducing discomfort during and after procedures. Moreover, lasers promote faster healing times and preserve healthy tissue and ultimately enhancing the overall patient experience.  It’s easy to see why lasers have become a standard of care in dentistry.

However, despite these advantages, transitioning to laser dentistry presents unique challenges for practitioners accustomed to traditional ‘tactile’ instruments. The non-contact nature of laser applications, coupled with the requirement for precise technique, often leads to underutilization of this advanced technology.  

Clausen added, “The goal of the Dental Laser Coaching Portal is to address the root causes of the common challenges faced by laser owners, irrespective of their experience level, and provide tailored optimization programs for soft tissue lasers, all-tissue lasers, and productivity enhancement using laser technology.”

To register for the free, limited seating webinar "Do More with Your All-Tissue Laser" on Tuesday April 30th, at 5PM PST/ 8PM EST, Click here. 

About Dental Laser Coaching

Established in 2004, by Nick Clausen, one of dentistry’s preeminent laser educators and trainers, Dental Laser Coaching (DLC) is dedicated to optimizing dental laser integration across all wavelengths and manufacturers. With a focus on achieving superior clinical results, enhancing patient experiences, and increasing production, DLC offers personalized coaching programs tailored to the unique needs of each practice.

For more information, please visit https://www.dentallasercoaching.com. Follow Dental Laser Coaching on Facebook, and YouTube for updates and insights.

Join Mike Buckner & Me at Lake Oconee in Georgia for an Event by Atlanta Dental

 

Today's post is regarding an upcoming event I'll be doing sponsored by Atlanta Dental.  On May 3rd, my good friend Mike Buckner and I will be doing an event at the Lake Oconee Ritz Carlton.

Mike, who is with Pearl, will be speaking on Artificial Intelligence: Elevating Patient Care and I'll be covering Technologies that Change Your Practice.

It's a half day event at an amazing location and Mike and I would be honored to have you there.  For more info you can follow this link for a pdf of the event.

For you diehards that just want to jump in a register, this link will take you to the registration page.

Mike is a really dynamic speaker and me... well I'm just me.  However, I can assure you that you will get tons of info at this event as well as having a few laughs.  The topics are ones that can truly help you make positive changes in your practice and improve your patient outcomes.  It's a really gorgeous venue, so I hope to see many of you there.

Double Trouble: Atomic Stealer and Arc Browser's Shady Ads

Surfing the web can expose you to more than just cat videos and informative articles. Two threats have recently emerged that can turn your browsing experience sour: the malicious malware Atomic Stealer and the intrusive adware bundled with Arc browser. Let's delve into what makes these threats concerning and how to stay safe online.

Atomic Stealer: Sticky Fingers in Your Digital Vault

Atomic Stealer is a nasty piece of malware that lives up to its name. It lurks in the shadows, waiting to snatch valuable data from your device. This information can include:

• Login credentials (usernames and passwords) for bank accounts, email, and social media.

• Credit card details and other financial information.

• Personal documents and files.

Atomic Stealer is often disguised as legitimate software, tricking users into downloading it. Once installed, it operates silently in the background, siphoning away your data and sending it to cybercriminals.

Arc Browser: Free Browsing with a Shady Price Tag

Arc browser might seem like a harmless alternative to your usual web browser. However, it comes bundled with unwanted adware. This sneaky software bombards you with intrusive pop-up ads, redirects your searches to generate ad revenue, and can even slow down your device.

Protecting Yourself from These Double Threats:

Don't let these digital bandits spoil your online experience. Here's how to stay safe:

• Download with caution: Only download software from trusted sources. Be wary of freeware or cracked software downloads, as they often harbor malware.

• Read reviews: Before installing a new browser, check online reviews to see if users have reported any adware issues.

• Antivirus and anti-malware software: Keep your security software up-to-date and run regular scans to detect and remove threats.

• Strong passwords: Use unique and complex passwords for all your online accounts. Consider using a password manager to help you create and manage strong passwords.

• Beware of phishing scams: Phishing emails often contain links that can download malware like Atomic Stealer. Be cautious of any emails urging you to click on links or download attachments.

By following these tips, you can browse the web with confidence, knowing you're protected from lurking threats like Atomic Stealer and Arc browser's adware. Remember, a little vigilance goes a long way in safeguarding your online security.

Got Plans for This Weekend? Join Me in Vegas!

 

This Friday & Saturday, I'll be teaching a hands-on course at LVI in beautiful Las Vegas.  The course is titled "Predictable Low Stress Endodontics for the General Practitioner".

I've been a dental GP for since before dinosaurs walked the Earth and early on, I developed a real love of endodontics.  Most GPs have one particular procedure that they really take a shine to and mine was endodontics.  I love the fact that everyone of them is different and to me it's like a puzzle that I love figuring out and putting together.  I tell people all the time that if I was forced to specialize, I'd choose endo.

As a GP, I understand the mindset of what we go through in a busy practice.  I've also been truly blessed to have spent some time with some incredible endodontists who were more than happy to share their knowledge with me.

Through taking a lot of courses, working for hours 'on the bench' with different systems,  the shared knowledge of specialists, and hours of study, I've developed a technique that works.  I'm excited to share my experiences and techniques to help my peers get better at this sometimes difficult treatment.

The event is being hosted at the LVI campus.

If you'd like to join me, you can still sign up.  Just click on this link to go to the signup page.

I'd love to see you there!  Oh, and if you can't make this one, we are planning on other dates as well, so stay tuned!

The Mystery of the XZ Code: Examining a Data Security Conundrum

 

Recently I had a discussion with a friend who is employed by Black Talon Security.  They are a security company that provides cybersecurity services for several industries and healthcare is one of the business sectors they work with.  He was explaining to me what the company does and how they do it.  One of the things I found interesting is that they provide a 'dashboard' that allows clients to login and see the status of the firewalls and other systems.  I thought that was a great idea as so many private healthcare offices are busy enough without trying to find the time to monitor their security profile.

Interestingly, shortly after this call, I read about what is being called the "XZ hack".

The world of cybersecurity is rife with ongoing battles against evolving threats. One such episode, shrouded in a bit of mystery, is the so-called "XZ code" hack. While details remain scarce, here's what we know (and don't know) about this intriguing incident.

The Fog of Details:

Unfortunately, concrete information surrounding the XZ code hack is limited. There's no confirmed date, specific target, or even a definitive answer on whether it was a successful intrusion. The name itself, "XZ code," offers little in terms of clues. It could potentially refer to a:

• Type of encryption used by the targeted system.

• Specific malware variant employed in the attack.

• Internal code name used by the attackers to identify the operation.

Without official confirmation, the true meaning remains speculative.

Whispers in the Dark Web:

Initial mentions of the XZ code hack seem to have originated from chatter on dark web forums frequented by cybercriminals. These discussions, while lacking concrete evidence, suggested a large-scale attack targeting a high-profile organization.

Speculation vs. Reality:

The lack of official confirmation fuels speculation. Here are some possibilities:

• Marketing ploy: Some theorize the XZ code could be a fabricated story by a security vendor to promote their services.

• Genuine, but limited attack: It's possible a smaller-scale intrusion occurred, and details were either exaggerated or misinterpreted on dark web forums.

The Takeaway: Vigilance is Key

While the specific details of the XZ code hack remain elusive, it highlights the ever-present threat of cyberattacks. Regardless of the specific details, it serves as a reminder for organizations to:

• Prioritize robust cybersecurity measures. This includes regularly updating software, utilizing strong passwords, and implementing employee training programs.

• Maintain a proactive approach. Regularly monitor systems for suspicious activity and have a plan in place to respond to potential breaches.

The XZ code hack might remain an enigma, but its shadow serves as a cautionary tale for all organizations operating in the digital age. By prioritizing cybersecurity, businesses can better protect themselves from the ever-evolving threats lurking in the shadows of the internet.

There is a pretty good article on this that I found on Politico that offers much more info that I have here.  If you're interested, check it out.