I Told You this AI Thing was Going to be Big, but I was wrong... It's Going to be HUGE

 

About a week ago, Google announced the launch of its first Multimodal AI model, named Gemini.  I've done a bit of nosing around to learn more about it.  A bit of the excitement has been captured in the launch video Google has posted.  You can view that video here: 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jV1vkHv4zq8

What the folks in the video discuss seems really amazing and powerful, but I think if you are like most of us, it is tough to take those words and those brief explanations and really gather the proper concept of what this thing can do.  So, if you are like I was and am a little overwhelmed and underwhelmed with an understanding of what this all means, I advise you to watch another video that Google released that shows a great deal about what Gemini can do.  That video is at this link:

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=78-zzPeE_dM

Now that you have a better understanding, here is a post that I had the AI system create, just for all of you...

Google Gemini: Unleashing the Power of Multimodal AI

The world of artificial intelligence took a giant leap forward with the introduction of Google's Gemini. This revolutionary model, released in December 2023, has captured the imagination of researchers and the public alike. But what exactly is Gemini, and what makes it so special?

Unprecedented Multimodal Capabilities:

Unlike previous AI models, Gemini isn't limited to understanding and generating text. It's truly multimodal, meaning it can handle various forms of information seamlessly. Text, code, images, audio, and video are all within its grasp. This opens up a vast array of possibilities, enabling Gemini to tackle tasks that were previously impossible for AI.

Performance Beyond Compare:

Gemini's performance is simply phenomenal. It outperforms state-of-the-art results on a staggering 30 out of 32 widely-used academic benchmarks. And on the massive multitask language understanding (MMLU) benchmark, it even surpasses human experts, achieving a score of approximately 90%. This remarkable feat showcases Gemini's exceptional problem-solving abilities and its capacity for combining world knowledge with complex reasoning.

Scaling to Meet Your Needs:

Gemini isn't just powerful; it's also incredibly versatile. It comes in three different sizes to cater to diverse needs:

• Gemini Ultra: This powerhouse tackles highly complex tasks on data centers.

• Gemini Pro: Ideal for a broad range of tasks, offering exceptional performance and adaptability.

• Gemini Nano: This lightweight version delivers optimal performance on mobile devices, ensuring efficient resource utilization.

Transforming the Future of AI:

Gemini's potential is truly transformative. It can revolutionize various fields, including:

• Healthcare: Imagine a future where AI can analyze medical images and patient data with unparalleled accuracy, leading to faster diagnoses and more effective treatments.

• Education: Personalized learning experiences tailored to individual student needs become a reality with AI tutors that can understand and respond to diverse learning styles.

• Creative Industries: Artists and designers gain access to powerful tools that can generate new ideas, translate their visions into reality, and collaborate with AI in new ways.

The Future is Here:

With Gemini, Google has opened a new chapter in the history of AI. This groundbreaking model paves the way for a future where intelligent machines can understand and interact with the world in ways that were previously unimaginable. The possibilities are endless, and it's an exciting time to be witnessing the birth of this remarkable technology.

Are you ready to experience the power of Google Gemini? Explore its capabilities and witness the future of AI unfold.

Canadian Dental Hygienists Association Applauds Launch of Canadian Dental Care Plan

The Canadian Dental Hygienists Association (CDHA) welcomes the launch of the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) as a historic step for oral health care in Canada. Representing more than 31,000 dental hygienists across the country, CDHA commends the government's commitment to enhancing access to oral health care but also cautions there’s a need for ongoing consultation to support the long-term implementation given the complexities involved in getting things right with this transformational investment.  

Oral health care is health care. Ensuring timely access to high-quality oral care for those who need it most is imperative to combatting oral diseases and conditions that may detrimentally affect an individual’s health and well-being. The CDCP is a significant investment on the part of the federal government in providing accessible oral health care for eligible Canadians. 

"We appreciate the progress that this historic announcement represents, but we also recognize the need for ongoing collaboration to fine-tune certain aspects of the plan," said Francine Trudeau, president of CDHA. "Our commitment to the oral health and well-being of Canadians remains unwavering, and we look forward to working together to build a robust and inclusive oral health care plan." CDHA is dedicated to advancing the dental hygiene profession and will continue to actively engage with the government and stakeholders to enhance the CDCP. 

As the government moves to fully implement this plan by 2025, CDHA looks forward to continued collaboration with Health Canada, Health Minister Mark Holland, and his federal colleagues.

“Preventing oral disease before it happens is essential to improve oral health outcomes for Canadians,” adds Trudeau. “And dental hygienists are experts in oral health education and prevention.” 

CDHA encourages eligible Canadians to enroll in the plan and dental hygienists look forward to supporting improved access to oral health care to an estimated 9 million people. 

About the Canadian Dental Hygienists Association (CDHA):

CDHA is the national voice of dental hygienists in Canada. Representing over 31,000 dental hygienists across the country, CDHA advocates for the advancement and promotion of the dental hygiene profession while maintaining a commitment to the public's oral health. Dental hygiene is the sixth largest regulated health profession in Canada with professionals working in a variety of settings, including independent dental hygiene practice, with people of all ages, addressing issues related to oral health. For more information on oral health, visit dentalhygienecanada.ca. For more information on the work of CDHA, visit cdha.ca.  

State of California State Laws Still Require Lead Aprons for Radiographs

 

It's interesting how sometimes it takes a while to really accomplish change.  Over the last 5-10 years, testing and expert opinions have come to the conclusion that lead aprons are not needed for dental x-rays.  As dentistry has gone digital for radiographic imaging, the radiation required to create a diagnostic radiograph has decreased exponentially.  This is a combination of more sophisticated x-ray generating devices as well as the accuracy and sensitivity of the sensors used to acquire the images.  Radiation is now considered negligible. 

Yet, legislatures can be slow to make changes and that includes laws governing healthcare providers as well.   Currently if you are a dentist practicing in California, state law requires the use of a lead apron.

And just so you understand the *why* on not using a lead shield, read on for my take...

Ditch the Apron: Why You Don't Need Lead During Dental X-Rays

For years, we've seen patients donning heavy lead aprons every time they stepped into the dentist's office for an X-ray. But is this cumbersome protection really necessary anymore? The answer, according to a recent announcement by the American Society for Dental Radiology (ASDR), is a resounding no.

Modern Technology Minimizes Radiation

The ASDR now recommends not using lead aprons during routine dental X-rays, citing significant advancements in dental X-ray technology. These advancements include:

• Collimated x-ray beams: These beams are focused on the area of interest, minimizing exposure to surrounding tissues.
• Digital sensors: These sensors are more sensitive than traditional film, requiring less radiation to produce high-quality images.
• Faster exposure times: Modern X-ray machines use fast exposure times, further reducing radiation dose.
• Lead Aprons Can Be Counterproductive

In some cases, lead aprons can even be counterproductive. The apron's collar can interfere with the X-ray beam, requiring multiple exposures and potentially increasing radiation dose. Additionally, lead aprons are bulky and uncomfortable, which can discourage patients from getting necessary X-rays.

Benefits of Ditching the Lead Apron

Eliminating lead aprons during dental X-rays offers several benefits:

• Reduced anxiety and discomfort for patients
• Improved patient compliance with X-ray recommendations
• Reduced environmental impact of lead waste
• More efficient workflow for dental professionals

Who Still Needs Lead Aprons?

While the ASDR recommends not using lead aprons for most patients, there are a few exceptions. Pregnant women, children, and individuals with certain medical conditions may still require lead protection. Your dentist will use their professional judgment to determine if a lead apron is necessary in your case.

The Bottom Line

Thanks to modern technology, lead aprons are no longer necessary for most dental X-rays. This shift offers a safer, more comfortable, and environmentally friendly experience for patients. So, the next time you visit the dentist, you can leave the lead apron at home and relax knowing you're receiving the best possible care.

Owandy Launches Ground-Breaking Intraoral Scanner

 

The AI-Enhanced Owandy-IOS is Affordable, Precise and Robust

Owandy Radiology Inc., a global leader in the manufacture of dental radiology hardware and imaging software, recently launched its AI-enhanced digital intraoral scanner, The Owandy-IOS.

The Owandy-IOS was designed to reshape dentistry’s digital imaging landscape. According to the company’s VP of Sales and Marketing, Boris Loyez. “By combining our state-of-the art optic and imaging technology, we have created a new standard in digital imaging.” 

The key features and benefits of the Owandy-IOS include the following:

• Precision: The Owandy-IOS boasts unparalleled accuracy in capturing detailed intraoral images. Equipped with advanced optics and imaging 

technology, it ensures precise and high-resolution scans, enabling dental 

professionals to provide the best possible care for their patients. The precision of the Owandy-IOS significantly enhances diagnostic capabilities and treatment planning.


• Ease-of-Use: There is no calibration or warm-up time required. In addition, a dual scan button, long battery life and two tip sizes make it more comfortable for dental professionals and their patients.  AI-enhanced Fast-

Scan technology assists with soft tissue removal and overlap correction, while exceptional transmission speed can scan a full arch in 20 seconds.

• Durability: The Owandy-IOS is engineered to withstand the demands of busy dental practices. Its durable construction ensures longevity, and consistent performance, making it an ideal investment for dental professionals seeking a long-lasting intraoral scanning solution. 

• Affordability: In its ongoing mission to make advanced dental technology accessible to all practitioners, Owandy has developed the Owandy-IOS to be an affordable solution without compromising on quality. Dental practices of all sizes can now benefit from state-of-the-art intraoral scanning technology without breaking the bank.

• Versatility: Owandy-IOS software integrates with Exocad and other CAD/CAM systems. What’s more, the Owandy-IOS is available in wireless and wired versions.

Practice owners can take advantage of a combo launch promotion of the Owandy-IOS and the I-Max 3D Pro CBCT for $59,900 USD until December 31st, 2023. A year-end special booklet is also available for all Owandy Products:   

www.owandy.com/offers. For additional information, 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 Roslyn, 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.

Researchers at UCLA School of Dentistry Announce the Development Game-Changing Implant Technology

 

Today's post is something that could prove to be a true changing moment in dental implants.  It is truly amazing to me how much progress has been made in the field of dental implantology in the last 20 years or so.  Early in my career, dental implants were an acceptable choice for replacing a missing tooth.  However, back then it was more of a "hit or miss" treatment.  By that I mean, when they worked, they worked really well, but sometimes they would fail.  For the non-dentists reading this, an implant needs to have the body attach bone to it and this stabilizes the situation.  This is referred to as "osseointegration".  Unfortunately, in some cases, the body would not build new bone around the implant and there would be a failure of osseointegration.

Over the years, implants have become more and more predictable as the field of implantology has evolved.  Now comes some incredibly interesting news from the UCLA School of Dentistry about a new technique involving the use of UV light to aid in the integration process.

A team of researchers at the UCLA School of Dentistry has developed a new technology that could revolutionize dental implants. The new technology, which uses ultraviolet (UV) light to treat dental implants, has been shown to significantly improve the success rate of implants and reduce healing times.

How does the new UV technology work?

The new UV technology works by removing hydrocarbons from the surface of dental implants. Hydrocarbons are organic molecules that can prevent bone from attaching to the implant. By removing hydrocarbons, the UV technology allows bone to grow directly onto the implant surface, which improves the success rate of implants and reduces healing times.  This is an aid to osseointegration.

What are the benefits of the new UV technology?

The new UV technology has several potential benefits for patients, including:

• Increased success rate of dental implants

• Reduced healing times

• Reduced risk of complications

• Improved quality of life

What are the next steps for the new UV technology?

The researchers are currently conducting clinical trials to test the safety and efficacy of the new UV technology. If the trials are successful, the technology could be commercially available within a few years.

Conclusion

The new UV technology is a promising breakthrough that could improve the lives of millions of people who have lost teeth. The technology has the potential to make dental implants more successful, more affordable, and more accessible.

In addition to the benefits mentioned above, the new UV technology could also:

• Reduce the need for bone grafting

• Make it possible to place dental implants in patients who have previously been considered unsuitable for implants

• Improve the long-term success rate of dental implants

The new UV technology is a significant advancement in dental implant technology. It has the potential to revolutionize the way that dental implants are placed and to improve the lives of millions of people.

For the full article regarding this new technology via the UCLA School of Dentistry website, here is the link.  

Maine's Only Dental College at UNE Part of $4.4M Harvard-led Research Network

 

The funding, from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, will establish UNE’s Oral Health Center as a clinical research site for approximately 40 dental medicine students as they look for predictors of pain in patients recovering from oral surgery.

PORTLAND, Maine — The University of New England College of Dental Medicine (CDM), Maine’s only dental school, is among seven collaborators sharing a $4.4 million grant from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) to launch a novel clinical practice-based research network to train future clinician-scientists.

 Known as the Collaborative Clinical Practice-based REsearch Program for DENTal Schools (H-CREDENT), the five-year grant from NIDCR, a division of the National Institutes of Health, is being led by the Harvard School of Dental Medicine (HSDM) and will establish UNE’s Oral Health Center, home to the CDM, as a clinical research site for approximately 40 dental medicine students throughout the grant period.

 The goal of the collaborative research project is to look for predictors of pain in patients as they recover from oral surgeries like root canals or tooth extractions. Participating students will collect saliva samples from patients and monitor their post-operative pain as they heal.

Mohamed ElSalhy, B.D.M., Ph.D., M.Sc., M.P.H., assistant clinical professor of dentistry, will serve as principal investigator for UNE on the project. Through the research process, he said, students and faculty will develop a system for identifying patients who experience higher-than-normal levels of pain to aid clinicians in making evidence-based decisions for treating post-operative pain.

“The project aims to train dentists to have a good research background so that they can do research in whatever setting they choose, including private practice,” ElSalhy said.

 Nicole Kimmes, D.D.S., dean of the College of Dental Medicine, will oversee the facilitation of administrative, academic, and clinical logistics. She said students who participate in the program will benefit from a Harvard-developed research curriculum in addition to early, pre-career research opportunities and mentorship by skilled faculty from the CDM and from across the research network.

 “This opportunity will provide participating students and faculty with valuable research training using the curriculum that Harvard has created. The data gathered from training sites will contribute to our understanding of the risk factors that contribute to patient pain development following invasive dental procedures,” she said. “This research project perfectly aligns with UNE’s mission and the mission of the College of Dental Medicine to improve the health of Northern New England, and we are grateful to collaborate with colleagues across the consortium.”

 Additional collaborators on the project include Cambridge Health Alliance, Charles River Community Health, Harvard Catalyst, Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, and Meharry Medical College. H-CREDENT will leverage the consortium’s collective expertise and encourage scientific partnerships between students and research faculty across collaborating sites. 

Kimmes noted that the H-CREDENT program is a great example of the profession’s efforts to expand the practice-based research network.

 “For practicing dentists who aren’t affiliated with the university setting, practice-based research is a vital way to contribute to the science and scholarship of dentistry,” Kimmes said. “By giving dentists that foundation while they’re students, we’re setting them up for success in their own practices with conducting their own research studies or collaborations with other colleagues.”

 HSDM Dean William Giannobile, D.D.S., M.S., said partnering with UNE will advance both institutions’ “shared vision” of enhancing research in the dental health sphere. 

 “We are delighted to have the opportunity to work with the University of New England College of Dental Medicine and our other regional partners to advance our shared vision of fostering a new generation of clinician-scientists and scientifically astute clinicians,” Giannobile said. “We look forward to trainees in the program going on to make an impact here in New England as well as widely across the profession.”

About the University of New England

The University of New England is Maine’s largest private university, with two beautiful coastal campuses in Maine, a one-of-a-kind study-abroad campus in Tangier, Morocco, and an array of flexible online offerings. In an uncommonly welcoming and supportive community, we offer hands-on learning, empowering students to make a positive impact in a world full of challenges. We are the state’s top provider of health professionals and home to Maine’s only medical and dental colleges, a variety of other interprofessionally aligned health care programs, and nationally recognized programs in the marine sciences, the natural and social sciences, business, the humanities, and the arts. Visit www.une.edu.

1,4-DPCA: A Potential Game-Changer for Dentists

 

While the term "game changer" is, at least in my opinion, a bit overused these days, it certainly *does* have applications, especially in healthcare.  Today I'd like to provide some info that will hopefully inform, but also stimulate some thought on cutting edge developments in dentistry.   Now, before we start here I want to add a word of caution.  This post is about a drug that is being studied.  There will need to be all kinds of tests and trials to see if it truly works as promised, but I think this is a truly interesting topic and should be on practitioners radar.  This kind of work is needed to improve our quality of life.  These are the kinds of things that are "many strikeouts with the occasional home run".

Dentists are always on the lookout for new and innovative ways to treat their patients. One such treatment that is currently in the experimental stages is 1,4-DPCA. This drug has the potential to be a game-changer for dentists, as it could be used to treat a variety of conditions, including:

• Periodontal disease: 1,4-DPCA could be used to help prevent the progression of periodontal disease by inhibiting the growth of bacteria in the mouth.

• Gingivitis: 1,4-DPCA could be used to treat gingivitis, which is inflammation of the gums.

• Dental caries: 1,4-DPCA could be used to prevent dental caries, which is more commonly known as tooth decay.

How Does 1,4-DPCA Work?

1,4-DPCA works by inhibiting the activity of an enzyme called prolyl 4-hydroxylase. This enzyme is responsible for the hydroxylation of collagen, which is a protein that is found in connective tissue. By inhibiting the activity of prolyl 4-hydroxylase, 1,4-DPCA can help to reduce the production of collagen. This can be beneficial for treating periodontal disease, gingivitis, and dental caries, as these conditions are all associated with excessive collagen production.

What are the Benefits of 1,4-DPCA?

There are several potential benefits of 1,4-DPCA for dentists:

• It could be used to treat a variety of conditions.

• It could be more effective than traditional treatments.

• It could have fewer side effects than traditional treatments.

What are the Risks of 1,4-DPCA?

There are some potential risks associated with 1,4-DPCA, including:

• It could cause skin irritation.

• It could cause allergic reactions.

• It could interact with other medications.

What is the Future of 1,4-DPCA?

1,4-DPCA is still in the experimental stages of development, but it has the potential to be a valuable tool for dentists. More research is needed to determine the safety and efficacy of 1,4-DPCA, but it is a promising new treatment option for a variety of dental conditions.

The Philadelphia Inquirer has a really good article that discusses the long journey of Ellen Heber-Katz who has been working on wound healing advancements for over 20 years.  The best part of these discoveries is that this may not *just* be an advancement for dentistry.  It seems to hold promise for regenerating nerves... among other benefits.