Ultradent becomes exclusive Triodent distributor in US

February 28, 2012.- Triodent Corporation and Ultradent Products, Inc. are delighted to announce that on April 1, 2012, Ultradent will be the exclusive distributor of Triodent products in the United States.
“Ultradent is highly regarded for its progressive approach and ways of doing business, and I too have admired them for a long time,” Triodent founder and CEO Dr. Simon McDonald said. “We believe there are things we can do, and do much better, with Ultradent as our partner. I very much look forward to seeing this synergy develop.”
The partnership with Ultradent is the result of careful consideration. The greatest emphasis was finding a partner that could maintain the type of service Triodent has provided to date.
“In the end,” said Dr. McDonald, “Ultradent and its direct business model was preferred because our business philosophies are very similar, as are the aspirations for our customers and business in general.”
“We’re very excited about our partnership with Triodent,” said Dr. Dan Fischer, President and CEO of Ultradent Products, Inc. “We’ve maintained a history of innovative products with the end goal of making our dentist partners more efficient and benefiting patients with quality treatment. Triodent’s offerings provide a nice complement to our existing line of direct restorative materials.”
Triodent’s flagship product, the V3 Sectional Matrix System which features the V3 Ring, has won multiple awards from Reality, The Dental Advisor and Dentaltown’s Townies as a top sectional matrix system.
www.triodent.com
Triodent Corporation
4431 Corporate Center Drive Suite 107
Los Alamitos, CA, 90720
Other key Triodent products include:     Triotray Pro and now Triotray Low Wall – two rigid and accurate dual-arch
impression trays with single-use inserts;     the non-stick and ultra-contoured SuperCurve matrix;     the 360° Cervical Matrices for composite and glass ionomer;     and WedgeGuard, the interproximal protector with detachable guard.
P 1-800-811-3949 F 206-339-5270 E sales@triodent.com
Dr McDonald added that both companies have taken exceptional measures to ensure a smooth transition for customers who currently work directly with Triodent or their distributors. The existing structure will remain in place until April 1, when Ultradent will take over as the exclusive distributor.
“I’m confident our customers will be well looked after,” said Dr. McDonald. “All of them will be contacted by us directly, and Ultradent is committed to ensuring they are not inconvenienced. We try to maintain very high standards of service, and I know Ultradent does the same.”
Dr McDonald said Triodent would continue to develop new and innovative products. “We never tire of finding new ways to make the dentist’s job easier, more profitable and more fun.”
About Triodent
Triodent was founded in 2003 with the vision of finding simple solutions to everyday dental problems, making the dentist’s job easier with better outcomes for the patient. Triodent now designs and manufactures a range of award-winning products that set new standards for clinical performance. These products are sold in more than 60 countries. For more information about Triodent, call 1-800-811-3949 before April 1, or visit www.triodent.com.
About Ultradent
Ultradent Products, Inc. is a leading developer of high-tech dental materials, devices and instruments worldwide. Ultradent’s mission is to improve the level of dental healthcare and to make dental procedures more predictable and hassle-free. Consistent with its mission, Ultradent works to improve the quality of life and health of individuals through financial and charitable programs. For more information about Ultradent, call (800) 552- 5512 or visit www.ultradent.com.
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3M ESPE Introduces RelyX™ Ultimate Adhesive Resin Cement

Dental cement delivers high bond strength and simplicity

ST. PAUL, Minn. – (Feb. 23, 2012) – 3M ESPE introduces the newest breakthrough in dental cements: 3M™ ESPE™ RelyX™ Ultimate Adhesive Resin Cement.  RelyX Ultimate cement delivers industry-leading high bond strength, ease of use and world-class esthetics.  Used in combination with Scotchbond Universal Adhesive, 3M’s newest dental adhesive introduced in October 2011, the two provide exceptional strength and simplicity.  Approved for a wide range of indications, RelyX Ultimate dental cement is ideally suited for CAD/CAM and glass ceramic restorations.

Requiring fewer working steps, RelyX Ultimate cement’s unique formulation includes an integrated component that activates the dark cure function of the adhesive and eliminates the need for an additional activator.   3M ESPE’s new adhesive, Scotchbond Universal Adhesive functions as a silane agent for glass ceramics, as well as a zirconia and metal primer. Together, RelyX Ultimate dental cement and Scotchbond Universal adhesive require fewer components and offer dentists easier handling and reduced inventory.   Additionally, RelyX Ultimate cement provides versatility that lets you choose a total-etch, selective-etch or self-etch technique.

RelyX Ultimate cement ensures confidence in cementing restorations.  Studies show that RelyX Ultimate cement delivers stronger or comparable bond strength to tooth enamel and dentin than leading competitive cements. 

RelyX Ultimate cement is available in four fluorescent shades that provide life-like fluorescence as well as superior color stability. RelyX Ultimate cement trial kits (available in A1 and Translucent shades) include a variety of mixing tips—regular, wide and intraoral - to ensure precise placement.   The dual-barrel syringe contains 8.5-grams of cement paste – enough material for approximately 16 applications.

RelyX Ultimate Adhesive Resin Cement brings a new level of strength, simplicity and innovation to the industry.

For more information about RelyX Ultimate cement, visit www.3MESPE.com/RelyXUltimate or call 1-800-634-2249.

###

Factors affecting the cement–post interface

 Dental Materials
Volume 28, Issue 3 , Pages 287-297, March 2012

Abstract 

Objectives

To evaluate the effect of different factors on the push-out bond strength of glass fiber posts luted in simulated (standard) root canals using different composite cements.

Methods

Three types of glass-fiber root-canal posts with a different matrix, namely an epoxy resin (RelyX post, 3M ESPE), a proprietary composite resin (FRC-Plus post, Ivoclar-Vivadent), and a methacrylate resin (GC post, GC), and three types of composite cements, namely an etch-and-rinse Bis-GMA-based (Variolink II, Ivoclar-Vivadent), a self-etch 10-MDP-based (Clearfil Esthetic Cement, Kuraray) and a self-adhesive (RelyX Unicem, 3M ESPE) cement, were tested. Posts were either left untreated (control), were treated with silane, or coated with silicated alumina particles (Cojet system, 3M ESPE). Posts were inserted up to 9-mm depth into composite CAD-CAM blocks (Paradigm, 3M ESPE) in order to solely test the strength of the cement–post interface, while excluding interference of the cement–dentin interface. After 1-week storage at 37°C, three sections (coronal, middle, apical) of 2-mm thickness were subjected to a push-out bond-strength test.

Results

All three variables, namely the type of post, the composite cement and the post-surface pre-treatment, were found to significantly affect the push-out bond strength (p<0.001). Regarding the type of post, a significantly lower push-out bond strength was recorded for the FRC-Plus post (Ivoclar-Vivadent); regarding the composite cement, a significantly higher push-out bond strength was recorded for the self-adhesive cement Unicem (3M ESPE); and regarding the post-surface treatment, a significantly higher push-out bond strength was recorded when the post-surface was beforehand subjected to a Cojet (3M ESPE) combined sandblasting/silicatization surface pre-treatment. Many interactions between these three variables were found to be significant as well (p<0.001). Finally, the push-out bond strength was found to significantly reduce with depth from coronal to apical.

Significance

Laboratory testing revealed that different variables like the type of post, the composite cement and the post-surface pre-treatment may influence the cement–post interface, making clear guidelines for routine clinical practice hard to define. Further long-term durability testing may help to clarify, and should therefore be encouraged.

PerioPatch® Hydrogel Wound Dressing for Oral Pain

MIS Implants/PeriZone^™ Video Explains Mechanism of Action for its PerioPatch^® Hydrogel Wound Dressing for Oral Pain and Inflammation

Fair Lawn, NJ (February 14, 2012) – MIS Implants Technologies, a leading manufacturer of dental implants and superstructures, recently created an animated video that clearly displays the mechanism of action for its oral wound management product, PerioPatch^®, the first product from its newly-established  brand within the oral health division, PeriZone™.

The PeriZone PerioPatch was created to provide relief from the signs and symptoms of oral inflammation and trauma, as well as protect oral wounds from further irritation. The patch, with a unique combination of herbal ingredients, securely adheres to moist intraoral tissues upon contact, providing a gentle, shielding barrier. PerioPatch absorbs wound exudates, and in turn promotes natural healing.

MIS Implants Technologies, Ltd. created the video to identify the appropriate patient profile, demonstrate proper application, and display the healing process with assistance from PerioPatch in a format that is visually compelling and easy to understand. In the length of one minute and ten seconds, the company intends to provide this information to dental professionals quickly and clearly.

The video can be found on PeriZone’s website (www.periopatch.com), or by clicking here, and will officially be introduced to the dental community at the upcoming Chicago Midwinter Meeting, booth #4727.

The PeriZone brand is new to the dental landscape, having launched in June of 2011, and strives to provide dental professionals and patients with state-of-the-art oral healthcare products that are unparalleled in quality and performance.

About MIS Implants Technologies, Ltd.

MIS Implants Technologies, Ltd., headquartered in Israel, was founded in 1995 and has served as a leading high-tech research and dental implant production company for many years. The company spans the globe, with distribution in almost 70 countries worldwide, and specializes in the complete cycle of production – including the design, development, manufacturing, and marketing of an advanced comprehensive range of dental implants, superstructures, surgical kits, and tools, as well as the newly developed line of oral health products. MIS has been committed to providing the dental community with significant research and top-of-the-line products that continually keep their customers smiling. The 2011 launch of PeriZone™, reflects this same commitment to dental professionals and consumers worldwide. The oral health division’s goal is to provide dental professionals with superior, innovative products to ensure the greatest level of patient care.

The World’s First Android™-based Control Screen in the Dental Laser Industry PerioLase® MVP-7™ for the LANAP® protocol brings together advanced science and developing technology. Cerritos, CA (February 27, 2012) Millennium Dental Technologies announces the first laser in the dental industry to incorporate an Android-based digital display and control system. The PerioLase MVP-7 for the LANAP protocol combines its advanced laser components with the latest LCD display technology for the optimum operating experience. The enhanced display integrates the absolute latest developments in the tablet industry into the PerioLase MVP-7 digital dental laser, and also provides a consistent platform to continually take advantage of the explosive growth and development in the electronics industry. Millennium Dental Technologies is breaking the paradigm of the planned obsolescence built into the manufacturing of capital equipment within the dental industry. By integrating the open-platform Android operating system, the PerioLase MVP-7 will enable new display device integration and upgrades without the purchase of a new laser. “Currently, in the industry, a device upgrade means a completely new laser at high cost. Millennium’s constant practice of ‘Kaizen’ has allowed us to break through this paradigm and provide true device upgradability,” remarks Robert H. Gregg II, DDS, president and co-founder of Millennium Dental Technologies. The new streamlined user interface increases usable display space to allow the doctor to focus on the clinical procedure, with intuitive operating controls and engaging graphics. The 360-degree mounting system increases clinician comfort during the procedure, with a wide range viewing angle and increased flexibility of laser placement in the operatory. “Operating system upgrades can be done in the field through encrypted hardware authentication, with less downtime to the clinician,” explains Patrick McCormick, CFO of Millennium Dental Technology. “This enables to the clinician to maintain patient treatment schedules and efficiency, while giving them the power to stay abreast of the exploding high-resolution, flat screen display technology.” Chief Technical Officer, Delwin McCarthy, DDS explains, “The transformation to the Android-based platform is fully backward compatible. All existing PerioLase MPV-7 laser devices can be merged with the advanced display and control, an important benefit to our LANAP-trained clinicians.” Millennium Dental Technologies is exploring forward compatible upgrades including evolution to Electronic Medical Records (EMR), the Obama initiative for integration of electronic dental records and systems, and seamless communication with case management software. The PerioLase MVP-7, a free-running pulsed Nd:YAG laser was developed specifically to support the LANAP protocol and, through product relevancy and a dedicated management team, is the longest-lasting laser system still being sold today in the history of the dental laser device industry. The LANAP protocol is a patient-accepted, evidence-based laser gum disease surgery, developed with the purpose of helping patients save their natural teeth and avoid the fear and pain associated with traditional gum surgery. ABOUT MILLENNIUM DENTAL TECHNOLOGIES, INC. Headquartered in Cerritos, Calif., Millennium Dental Technologies, Inc. is the developer of the LANAP® protocol for the treatment of gum disease and the manufacturer of the PerioLase® MVP-7™ digital dental laser. By providing a simple and comfortable experience with unique bone-building clinical results, MDT’s FDA-cleared LANAP protocol removes the fear from gum disease treatment, offering a vastly less painful and less invasive regenerative treatment alternative to conventional scalpel/suture flap surgery; its PerioLase® MVP-7™ is a 6-watt free-running variable pulsed Nd:YAG dental laser featuring digital technology and 7 pulse durations—the most available on the market—giving it the power and versatility to perform a wide range of soft- and hard-tissue laser procedures. Established in 1990, the company’s founding clinicians, Robert H. Gregg, II, D.D.S. and Delwin K. McCarthy, D.D.S., continue to operate the company with a shared vision and purpose: To create better clinical outcomes in periodontal disease patients—and to remain true to the guiding principle—“It’s all about the patient.” For more information, visit www.LANAP.com.

The World’s First Android™-based Control Screen

in the Dental Laser Industry

PerioLase^® MVP-7^™ for the LANAP^® protocol brings together advanced science and developing technology.

Cerritos, CA (February 27, 2012) Millennium Dental Technologies announces the first laser in the dental industry to incorporate an Android-based digital display and control system. The PerioLase MVP-7 for the LANAP protocol combines its advanced laser components with the latest LCD display technology for the optimum operating experience.

The enhanced display integrates the absolute latest developments in the tablet industry into the PerioLase MVP-7 digital dental laser, and also provides a consistent platform to continually take advantage of the explosive growth and development in the electronics industry.

Millennium Dental Technologies is breaking the paradigm of the planned obsolescence built into the manufacturing of capital equipment within the dental industry. By integrating the open-platform Android operating system, the PerioLase MVP-7 will enable new display device integration and upgrades without the purchase of a new laser.

“Currently, in the industry, a device upgrade means a completely new laser at high cost. Millennium’s constant practice of ‘Kaizen’ has allowed us to break through this paradigm and provide true device upgradability,” remarks Robert H. Gregg II, DDS, president and co-founder of Millennium Dental Technologies.

The new streamlined user interface increases usable display space to allow the doctor to focus on the clinical procedure, with intuitive operating controls and engaging graphics. The 360-degree mounting system increases clinician comfort during the procedure, with a wide range viewing angle and increased flexibility of laser placement in the operatory.

“Operating system upgrades can be done in the field through encrypted hardware authentication, with less downtime to the clinician,” explains Patrick McCormick, CFO of Millennium Dental Technology. “This enables to the clinician to maintain patient treatment schedules and efficiency, while giving them the power to stay abreast of the exploding high-resolution, flat screen display technology.”

Chief Technical Officer, Delwin McCarthy, DDS explains, “The transformation to the Android-based platform is fully backward compatible. All existing PerioLase MPV-7 laser devices can be merged with the advanced display and control, an important benefit to our LANAP-trained clinicians.”

Millennium Dental Technologies is exploring forward compatible upgrades including evolution to Electronic Medical Records (EMR), the Obama initiative for integration of electronic dental records and systems, and seamless communication with case management software.

The PerioLase MVP-7, a free-running pulsed Nd:YAG laser was developed specifically to support the LANAP protocol and, through product relevancy and a dedicated management team, is the longest-lasting laser system still being sold today in the history of the dental laser device industry. The LANAP protocol is a patient-accepted, evidence-based laser gum disease surgery, developed with the purpose of helping patients save their natural teeth and avoid the fear and pain associated with traditional gum surgery.

ABOUT MILLENNIUM DENTAL TECHNOLOGIES, INC. Headquartered in Cerritos, Calif., Millennium Dental Technologies, Inc. is the developer of the LANAP^® protocol for the treatment of gum disease and the manufacturer of the PerioLase^® MVP-7^™ digital dental laser. By providing a simple and comfortable experience with unique bone-building clinical results, MDT’s FDA-cleared LANAP protocol removes the fear from gum disease treatment, offering a vastly less painful and less invasive regenerative treatment alternative to conventional scalpel/suture flap surgery; its PerioLase^® MVP-7^™ is a 6-watt free-running variable pulsed Nd:YAG dental laser featuring digital technology and 7 pulse durations—the most available on the market—giving it the power and versatility to perform a wide range of soft- and hard-tissue laser procedures. Established in 1990, the company’s founding clinicians, Robert H. Gregg, II, D.D.S. and Delwin K. McCarthy, D.D.S., continue to operate the company with a shared vision and purpose: To create better clinical outcomes in periodontal disease patients—and to remain true to the guiding principle—“It’s all about the patient.”  For more information, visit www.LANAP.com. 

MicroDental’s Impression Free ProgramProvides an Attractive Rebate forNew and Existing Sirona Digital Impression Users

Charlotte, NC (February 20, 2012)–Sirona Dental Systems, LLC announced today that MicroDental Laboratories is now providingCEREC^® and CEREC^® AC Connect users with an attractive rebate program. 

Named the Impression Free program, both new and existing Sirona Digital Impression users who chooseMicroDental Laboratories for any laboratory serviceshave a choice to earn generous monthly rebatestowards their lab bill to help cover the cost of their CEREC AC Connect digital impression system.They can also have the rebates applied to a debit card that can be used toward all MicroDental products and services, or to spend however they choose. 

Rebates range in size, based on each client’s monthly MicroDentallab bill. The rebates can cover all CEREC AC Connect financing costs.  MicroDental’s Impression Free rebate program is not only based on incremental CEREC business done with MicroDental, but can apply to any business conducted with MicroDental. 

“One of our goals at MicroDental is to provide the most innovative and technologically advanced products to our clients,” according to Randall Leininger, National Sales Director for Dental Technologies, Inc.  “By providing CEREC lab services and including the CEREC AC Connect in our Impression Free program, we are helping dentists experience the benefits of digital dentistry while gaining an attractive financial incentive.” 

“Much like Sirona, MicroDental is a proponent not only of digital impression technology, but also acts as a support systemfor each dental practice it works with,” remarked Jonathan Hill, Laboratory CAD/CAM Marketing Manager for Sirona.  “By providing this attractive rebate to Sirona Digital Impression dentists, MicroDental ishelping to elevate the level of dental care withefficient, innovative, and esthetically pleasing solutions.  We are very satisfied to team up with MicroDental.”

For more information,please contact MicroDental at 800-229-0936, call Sirona at 855-465-2248, or visit www.inLab.com.

About Sirona Dental Systems, LLC

Recognized as a leading global manufacturer of technologically advanced, high-quality dental equipment, Sirona has served equipment dealers and dentists worldwide for more than 125 years.  Sirona develops, manufactures, and markets a complete line of dental products, including CAD/CAM restoration equipment (CEREC^® and inLab^®); digital and film-based intraoral, panoramic, and cephalometric X-ray imaging systems; dental treatment centers; and handpieces.  Visitwww.sirona.comfor more information about Sirona and its products.

About MicroDental Laboratories

MicroDental is a member of the Dental Technologies Inc. (DTI) network of dental laboratories.  DTI is the only dental laboratory network that provides innovative, full-practice growth support to dentists who want to excel above the status quo.  Strategically located throughout North America, DTI is a laboratory network that extends beyond simple dental laboratory support, as each laboratory represents an epicenter of innovation and artistry for the benefit of each practice served.  Visit www.dtidental.com for more information

Carestream Dental Announces Five Solutions at Chicago Dental Society Midwinter Meeting

New Product Offerings Provide Huge Benefits for Dental Practitioners;

Streamline Workflow and Improve Doctor-to-Patient Communication

ATLANTA – Carestream Dental today introduced five of the newest additions to its intraoral imaging system, intraoral camera and software suites – all streamline workflow and improve doctor-to-patient communication. The products will debut at the 147th Annual Chicago Dental Society Midwinter Meeting, held through Saturday, February 25, at McCormick Place West in Chicago.

During the Chicago Midwinter Meeting, the Carestream Dental team will showcase new solutions, which include:

·         The compact CS 7600 digital intraoral radiography system reinvents imaging plate technology by improving usability, productivity and security. This cost-effective system’s patented intelligent workflow technology prevents plate mix-up and reduces operation time. The CS 7600 is fully automated and as easy to use as film – with all the benefits of digital imaging.

·         The CS 1600¹ is a multi-use intraoral camera that combines exclusive, patented caries detection technology with Carestream Dental’s industry-leading image quality. With the widest focus range on the market (1mm to infinity), this easy-to-use camera marks a leap forward in dental care; as dentists typically must rely upon traditional, more subjective methods of caries detection. This camera features the same unique liquid-lens autofocus technology as Carestream Dental’s 1500 Intraoral Camera as well as a sophisticated 18-LED illumination system and an optional polarizer filter to reduce glare.

·         An additional new intraoral camera, the CS 1200, is easy to use and provides practitioners with an affordable entry point into digital imaging. The CS 1200 captures crisp, clear images. The camera’s wide focus range captures a variety of images including macro, single teeth, arches and smiles, and it has the ability to store up to 300 images within the camera itself.

·         Logicon Caries Detector^TM Software, the only FDA-approved caries detection software, is now available in an automatic version. This software serves as a computer-aided detection tool that is clinically proven² to help dentists find more interproximal caries on intraoral radiographs. This new version of Logicon Software improves practice efficiency with the ability to automatically run the detection algorithm on all applicable tooth surfaces within a radiograph and immediately display the results, with a single click.

·         For use with Carestream Dental’s RVG 6500 System, the RVG Mobile application enables dentists to review images chairside on an iPad^®3, improving patient communication and case acceptance. RVG Mobile also provides remote access to dental imaging software files, so stored images can be easily transferred to practice computers for diagnosis and archiving. This solution cuts practice equipment costs since extra monitors are no longer needed.

“Carestream cares about our customers, and we are dedicated to developing and producing high-quality solutions that help – not hinder – workflows and optimize patient care,” said Edward Shellard, D.M.D., chief marketing officer and director of business development for Carestream Dental. “We’re excited for practitioners to experience our new solutions and the huge time savings they provide.”

The Annual Chicago Midwinter Meeting is one of the largest dental exhibitions in the United States, with more than 600 manufacturers, dealers, suppliers and labs participating every year. The 2012 event is under way at the McCormick Place West Building in Exhibit Hall F on Level 3.

Carestream Dental welcomes all Chicago Midwinter Meeting attendees to visit the booth, number 3217, to get a hands-on demonstration of its suite of products during the show. For more information on Carestream Dental’s innovative solutions or to request a product demonstration, call (800) 944-6365 or visit www.carestreamdental.com.

¹Work in Progress – Not for sale in the U.S.

²Gakenheimer, David C. “The Efficacy of a Computerized Caries Detector in Intraoral Digital Radiography.” Journal of the American Dental Association 133 (2002): 883-890

³iPad is a trademark of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

About Carestream Dental

Carestream Dental provides industry-leading imaging, software and practice management solutions for dental and oral health professionals. With more than 100 years of industry experience, Carestream Dental products are used by seven out of 10 practitioners globally and deliver more precise diagnoses, improved workflows and superior patient care. For more information or to contact a Carestream Dental representative, call (800) 944-6365 or visit www.carestreamdental.com.

About Carestream Health

Carestream Health is a worldwide provider of dental and medical imaging systems and healthcare IT solutions; molecular imaging systems for life science research and drug discovery/development; X-ray film and digital X-ray systems for non-destructive testing; and advanced materials for the precision films and electronics markets.

For more information about the company’s broad portfolio of products, solutions and services, please contact your Carestream Health representative or visit www.carestream.com.

Dentirx News

Dentrix G5 is now shipping

Henry Schein started shipping Dentrix G5, the latest version of the Dentrix practice management
system, as part of a phased release that will take several months. Although the official launch
announcement will not be made until the Hinman Dental Meeting in March, Henry Schein is
delivering Dentrix G5 to new Dentrix buyers, as well as a restricted number of Dentrix customers
as part of a controlled launch. “By extending the release over multiple months, we can ensure all
users receive quality technical support if needed during software installation,” said Howard
Bangerter, Dentrix Product Manager. “However, if a Dentrix user on a current customer plan wants
immediate delivery of Dentrix G5, they can call Dentrix Technical Support and we’ll send it,”
Bangerter added.

     New to Dentrix G5 is a new SQL database with encryption capabilities that improves performance
and security of patient data (see attached whitepaper), as well as new Electronic Explanation of
Benefits (eEOB), eClaim Attachment Notifications, Dentrix Dentalink secure instant
messenger, and other features. If you are attending Chicago Mid-Winter or Hinman, please feel
free to stop by the booth to see a Dentrix G5 demo.
     For more information on Dentrix G5, visit: www.dentrix.com/products/dentrix/g5

Dentrix Business of Dentistry Conference set for July 12-14 in Las Vegas

The Dentrix Business of Dentistry Conference,  Henry Schein’s annual Dentrix user training
conference, will be held July 12-14 in Las Vegas. The conference offers training for the entire team,
with more than 40 training sessions on Dentrix, practice management strategy, dental technology
and practice marketing – all delivered by consultants and product experts. [Thanks to those of you
who are presenting this year.] New this year is a full clinical track highlighting the latest dental
technologies and treatments.

     If your clients act now, they can save $400. Early Bird pricing for the conference is $595 for previous
attendees, $695 for new attendees, and $595 for each additional team member.
     For more information about the conference, visit: www.businessofdentistry.com

Restorative material and other tooth-specific variables associated with the decision to repair or replace defective restorations: findings from The Dental PBRN

Journal of Dentistry

Available online 8 February 2012

Abstract

Objectives

Using data from dentists participating in The Dental Practice-Based Research Network (DPBRN), the study had 2 main objectives: (1) to identify and quantify the types of restorative materials in the existing failed restorations; and (2) to identify and quantify the materials used to repair or replace those failed restorations. Methods: This cross-sectional study used a consecutive patient/restoration recruitment design. Practitioner-investigators recorded data on consecutive restorations in permanent teeth that needed repair or replacement. Data included the primary reason for repair or replacement, tooth surface(s) involved, restorative materials used, and patient demographics.

Results

Data for 9,875 restorations were collected from 7,502 patients in 197 practices for which 75% of restorations were replaced and 25% repaired. Most of the restorations that were either repaired or replaced were amalgam (56%) for which most (56%) of the material used was direct tooth-colored. The restorative material was 5 times more likely to be changed when the original restoration was amalgam (OR = 5.2, p<.001). The likelihood of changing an amalgam restoration differed as a function of the tooth type (OR = 3.0, p<.001), arch (OR = 6.6, p<.001); and number of surfaces in the original restoration (OR = 12.2, p<.001).

Conclusion

The probability of changing from amalgam to another restorative material differed with several characteristics of the original restoration. The change was most likely to take place when (1) the treatment was a replacement; (2) the tooth was not a molar; (3) the tooth was in the maxillary arch; and (4) the original restoration involved a single surface.

Antioxidant Oral Care Products at Chicago Midwinter 2012

PerioSciences Showcases its AO ProVantage Family of Antioxidant Oral Care Products at Chicago Midwinter 2012

Dallas, TX – February 13, 2012 – Exhibiting for the first time at the Chicago Midwinter Meeting at booth # 4236, PerioSciences, LLC (www.periosciences.com) will be launching the dental industry’s first antioxidant-based, topically-applied oral care products.

Specifically, the company will be presenting its AO ProVantage family of products, which contain the novel combination of antioxidants Phloretin and Ferulic.  Phloretin and Ferulic have been shown in university based studies to neutralize free radicals which lead to oxidative stress commonly caused by dental materials, alcohol, nicotine, and the hydrogen peroxide used in teeth whitening products. Case studies reveal reduced inflammation and bleeding as well as accelerated wound healing in soft oral tissue. The AO ProVantage product line is as follows:

·       AO ProVantage: An antioxidant-infused gel designed for application on soft oral tissue is available in both a 30 ml and 15ml travel size delivers antioxidant to tissue and is extremely soothing upon application. Also contains antibacterial agents such as xylitol, menthol and thymol.  

·       AO ProVantage BLAST: A higher concentration antioxidant gel is designed to be applied after tobacco use delivering the most advanced combination of antioxidants.  The unique and strong combination of essential oils, and xylitol will freshen breath even after nicotine use.   Package contains three .17ml airless bottles which are easy to carry.

·       AO ProRinse: An alcohol-free, mouth rinse that contains a proprietary antioxidant combination with the added power of catechins from Green Tea.  This great tasting mouth rinse is extremely effective against general halitosis and also contains xylitol.

According PerioSciences Founder and CEO Russell Moon, “The AO Pro family of products

have been proven to be well tolerated and highly effective by patients with extreme cases of halitosis and oral sensitivity, even when caused by serious conditions, such as bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw, post-oral surgery, and cancer treatments.”

PerioSciences and its AO Pro product line are the result of more than 20 years of experience in the topical application of antioxidants. Company CEO Russell Moon’s earlier venture, SkinCeuticals, which commercialized topically-applied antioxidant skincare, paved the way for PerioSciences with strong anti-inflammatory results from Duke University testing. SkinCeuticals was acquired by L’Oréal in 2005.

PerioSciences was founded in 2008, when additional research at Baylor College of Dentistry and UNC Chapel Hill School of Dentistry further confirmed that specific combinations of antioxidants neutralize free radicals / oxidative stress in the oral cavity. Antioxidants naturally occur in saliva, and abnormally low levels of salivary antioxidants have been associated with oral disease, such as oral lichen planus (OLP), temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), periodontal disease (PD), and even oral cancer. 

For more information about PerioScinces and its AO Pro family of products, please visit www.PerioSciences.com or call 1-800-915-8110.

About PerioSciences:

PerioSciences researches, formulates, and markets topically applied, antioxidant-based oral care and oral hygiene products. The company markets to dental professionals, hygienists, and other health care professionals such as cardiologists, rheumatologists, and medi-spas. Founded in 2008 and headquartered in Dallas, Texas, PerioSciences' objective is to establish a new category of products – antioxidant-based oral care. PerioSciences will provide the most advanced products for patients and a state-of-the-art business model for practitioners while maintaining a long-term commitment to research.

Toothbrush Can Chip Teeth and Cause Choking

When using your electric toothbrush, you don’t expect parts of the device to pop off and chip your tooth, fly into your eyes or get stuck in your throat.
But that’s exactly what has happened to some users of the battery-powered Arm & Hammer Spinbrush—or the Crest Spinbrush, as it was called before 2009.
“It’s important that consumers know how to avoid the risks associated with using the Spinbrush,” says Shumaya Ali, M.P.H., a consumer safety officer at the Food and Drug Administration. “We’ve had reports in which parts of the toothbrush broke off during use and were released into the mouth with great speed, causing broken teeth and presenting a choking hazard.”
FDA regulates toothbrushes—whether manual or electric—as medical devices that are intended to help prevent tooth decay. Safety precautions should be taken with all kinds of electric toothbrushes.
“Electric toothbrushes can be very effective in removing dental plaque, and so they can help prevent dental decay and gum disease,” says Susan Runner, D.D.S., chief of FDA’s dental devices branch. “At the same time, it’s important to supervise children when they use these brushes, and to look out for any malfunctions of the toothbrush that might cause an injury.”
Injuries reported from using the Spinbrush powered toothbrush include

• chipped or broken teeth
• cuts to the mouth and gums
• swallowing and choking on broken pieces
• injury to the face and eyes

FDA is alerting the public about the potential for injury while using the following models of Spinbrush:

• Spinbrush ProClean
• Spinbrush ProClean Recharge
• Spinbrush Pro Whitening
• Spinbrush SONIC
• Spinbrush SONIC Recharge
• Spinbrush Swirl
• Spinbrush Classic Clean
• Spinbrush For Kids
• Spinbrush Replacement Heads

Parts Popping Off

The Spinbrush handle contains batteries and a motor that operates the brushes, which are attached to a brush head. In the models of Spinbrush made for adults, the brush head is removable and can be replaced.
But the brush head should not pop off during normal use, says Ali. “In some cases, the brush head popped off to expose metal pieces underneath that can—and have—poked individuals in the cheek and areas near the eyes, causing  injuries.”
The “Spinbrush for Kids” models, which have different handle designs, such as Spiderman and Thomas & Friends, do not have removable brush heads.  Nonetheless, problems with the Spinbrush for Kids have also been reported, such as cut lips, burns from the batteries, and bristles falling off and lodging in a child’s tonsils.
“FDA’s concern is that the unexpected release of any part of this battery-powered toothbrush during use poses a risk of injury,” says Steven Silverman, director of the Office of Compliance in FDA’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health. “And the risk is higher in children or adults who may need assistance but are not supervised while using the toothbrush.”
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FDA Actions

FDA’s inspection last year of Church & Dwight Co. Inc., which manufactures the Spinbrush, uncovered evidence that there had been numerous consumer complaints that had not been reported to the agency. On May 16, 2011, FDA warned the company of its violations of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, including failure to report—within a reasonable time frame—serious injuries.
After further discussions with Church & Dwight about the risks of the battery-powered Spinbrush, the company has taken some actions:

• improved the labeling to caution consumers to change the brush head every three months or sooner if the brush is worn or parts are loose
• added bristles that change color with wear to give consumers a visual reminder of when to replace the brush head
• issued a safety notice about Spinbrush in television and print ads; the safety notice also appears on the Spinbrush website and the interactive voice response to consumers who call the company’s toll-free telephone numbers.

Safety Notice: Please remember to replace your brush head after 3 months of use, or if the brush is damaged, or if parts become loose. Extended usage, loose parts or excessive wear could lead to brush head breakage, generation of small parts and possible choking hazard. Inspect brush for loose parts before use.

Advice to Parents, Caregivers and Consumers

• Before using the Spinbrush, inspect it for any damage or loose brush bristles. If you find any, do not use the brush. Report it to Church & Dwight, which can be reached toll-free at 1-800-352-3384 or 1-800-561-0752.
• Make sure the brush head is connected tightly to the brush handle, and test the brush outside of your mouth before using. If the connection feels loose or the brush head easily detaches from the handle, do not use the brush. Report it to Church & Dwight.
• Use care not to bite down on the brush head while brushing.  
• To prevent injuries, always supervise children and adults who may need assistance when using the Spinbrush.
• Follow the instructions and recommended replacement guidelines included with the Spinbrush.
• Report injuries or problems with the Spinbrush to MedWatch—FDA's Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program either online, by regular mail, by fax or by phone.
  • Online
  • Regular Mail: Use postage-paid, pre-addressed FDA form 3500
  • Fax: 800-FDA-0178
  • Phone: 800-332-1088

This article appears on FDA's Consumer Updates page, which features the latest on all FDA-regulated products.
Feb. 16, 2012

Store-A-ToothTM Dental Stem Cell Preservation Service

Provia Labs Makes Chicago Midwinter Meeting Debut and Launches its Store-A-Tooth^TM Dental Stem Cell Preservation Service

Dentists can be at the Forefront of the Emerging Field of Regenerative Medicine

Lexington, MA – February 13, 2012 – Provia Laboratories, LLC will be exhibiting during the Chicago Midwinter Meeting at booth # 3346 to showcase its Store-A-Tooth^TM dental stem cell preservation service.

The Store-A-Tooth^TM service enables families to save their own adult stem cells – from baby teeth ready to fall out; teeth pulled for orthodontic reasons; and wisdom teeth being extracted.  Dental professionals play a role in making patients aware of this option, giving families the choice to safely and securely store their stem cells today – in a convenient and affordable way – so that they can take advantage of future therapies in regenerative medicine and dentistry.

The company partners with dental offices to make it easy to educate and inform patients about the option to preserve their family’s dental stem cells. For those interested in the service, Provia works with the dental team to provide high-quality tooth collection, and arranges for the sample to be sent overnight to the lab, where the stem cells are harvested, tested, and cryopreserved for future potential use. 

“New stem cell therapies are going to change medicine as we know it, and dentists will play a leading role in enabling this transformation,” states Howard Greenman, Provia Labs’ CEO. “There’s been a lot of media buzz about stem cell research in general, but most people are unaware that a very potent and plentiful source of viable stem cells exits in the dental pulp of healthy teeth.”

Dental stem cells have already been used successfully in people to regenerate alveolar jaw bone and to treat periodontal disease. “One of the first routine applications in the oral cavity for the use of mesenchymal stem cells from teeth will be to promote bone growth around implants so they integrate more quickly, similar to how cellular bone matrix products are used today,” says Dr. Nicholas Perrotta, DMD, who started providing the Store-A-Tooth service in 2011.   

“In addition to potential applications in regenerative dentistry, dental stem cell research may lead to new treatments for a wide range of medical conditions, including type 1 diabetes, stroke, cardiovascular disease, spinal cord injuries, and Parkinson’s disease, to name a few,” explains  Peter Verlander, PhD, Chief Scientific Officer for Provia Labs. “Dental stem cell collection and preservation gives parents the peace of mind that they are now equipped to take advantage of the breakthroughs in stem cell therapies that will arise from the research community.”

“Store-A-Tooth is less expensive than collecting stem cells from umbilical cord blood. In fact, we hear from many of our customers that they are thankful to have this opportunity to store their stem cells, especially if they missed the chance to save cord blood,” states Greenman. “Our mission is to make stem cell banking accessible to the millions of children losing teeth
every year.”

There are no fees or costs to dentists who wish to become an authorized Store-A-Tooth provider; in fact, dentists can generate incremental revenue for assisting with tooth collection. Provia Labs supplies all participating practices with patient education materials, practice tools, and dedicated support; training is simple, and there is minimal impact to existing workflow.

Dental professionals share Store-A-Tooth educational materials with their patients, who enroll directly with Provia Labs. The day of the appointment, the dentist simply places the extracted tooth into the Store-A-Tooth collection kit, which includes a proven transport device called Save-A-Tooth^®. In use by thousands of dentists for over 20 years, the Save-A-Tooth is an FDA-approved and ADA-accepted device for transporting avulsed teeth for reimplantation. The Store-A-Tooth collection kit is shipped overnight to the Provia Laboratories facility, where the stem cells are processed and stored.

The Store-A-Tooth service is currently available to dental offices throughout the United States and internationally. To become a provider, visit www.store-a-tooth.com or call 877-867-5753.

About Provia Laboratories, LLC

Headquartered in Lexington, MA, Provia Laboratories, LLC (www.provialabs.com) is a healthcare services company specializing in high-quality biobanking (preservation of biological specimens). The company’s Store-A-Toothä service platform enables the collection, transport, processing, and storage of dental stem cells for potential use in future stem-cell therapies. The company advises industrial, academic, and governmental clients on matters related to the preservation of biological specimens for research and clinical use.  In addition, Provia offers a variety of products for use in complex biobanking environments to improve sample logistics, security, and quality. For more information on dental stem cells, call 1-877-867-5753, visit www.store-a-tooth.com  or www.facebook.com/storeatooth, or follow via twitter @StoreATooth

Diabetes screening at the periodontal visit: patient and provider experiences with two screening approaches

 Rosedale, M. and Strauss, S. (2012), Diabetes screening at the periodontal visit: patient and provider experiences with two screening approaches. International Journal of Dental Hygiene. doi: 10.1111/j.1601-5037.2011.00542.x

Abstract:  Objectives:  This study examined patient and dental provider experiences during the periodontal visit of diabetes screening approaches involving the collection of gingival crevicular blood (GCB) and finger stick blood (FSB) for haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) testing.

Methods:  At a large, urban, US periodontics and implant clinic, FSB samples from 120 patients and GCB samples from 102 of these patients were collected on special blood collection cards and sent to a laboratory for HbA1c testing, with test results sent to the patients from the laboratory. Quantitative and qualitative data from patients and qualitative data from providers were collected and analysed.

Results:  Quantitative and qualitative data support the feasibility and acceptability of the approaches described. Themes that arose from the interviews with providers and patients include ‘a good chance to check’, ‘patient choice’, ‘FSB versus GCB testing’ and ‘a new way of interacting and viewing the dental visit’.

Conclusion:  Periodontal patients and dental providers believe that the dental visit is an opportune site for diabetes screening and generally prefer GCB to FSB collection. HbA1c testing is well tolerated, convenient and acceptable to patients, and GCB testing reduces time and liability obstacles for dental providers to conduct diabetes screening.

Clinical study of the relationship between implant stability measurements using Periotest and Osstell mentor and bone quality assessment

Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology, Oral Radiology
Volume 113, Issue 3 , Pages e35-e40, March 2012

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between subjective bone quality assessments and objective implant stability values using Periotest and Osstell Mentor, which are widely used clinically, to assess the correlation between these 2 measurements.

Study Design

A total of 211 dental implants (114 in the maxilla and 97 in the mandible) were placed in 162 patients (89 males and 73 females). Bone quality type was classified according to the Lekholm and Zarb classification. After implant placement, implant stability was measured using Periotest and Osstell Mentor. Implant stability was represented by the implant stability quotient (ISQ) values and periotest values (PTVs). All of the procedures were performed by 1 operator to reduce potential errors.

Results

The ISQ values were higher in the mandible (72.77 ± 8.77) than in the maxilla (65.72 ± 8.65), whereas PTVs were lower in the mandible (−3.02 ± 2.63) than in the maxilla (−0.17 ± 2.82). A statistically significant correlation was found between bone quality type and both ISQ values and PTVs. A significant negative correlation was found between the ISQ values and PTVs (P < .01).

Conclusion

Both measurements seem to be useful in predicting implant placement prognosis and in determining loading protocols.

THE CASE OF THE FORGOTTEN TOOTHBRUSH INTRODUCTION:

Venkatasubramaniam, D Tennant, and SM Kelly International Journal of Surgery Case Reports. 10.1016/j.ijscr.2012.01.008

Although foreign body ingestion is relatively common, toothbrush swallowing is rare. A diagnosis of small-bowel perforation, caused by a sharp or pointed foreign body, is rarely made preoperatively because the clinical symptoms are usually nonspecific and can mimic other surgical conditions, such as appendicitis and diverticulitis. PRESENTATION OF CASE: We report a case of a swallowed toothbrush which passed past the pylorus and perforated the terminal ileum. The patient however presented with a fluctuant mass in the left iliac fossa, pyrexia and generalised tenderness mimicking a diverticular abscess. DISCUSSION: Ingestion of a foreign body is commonly encountered in the clinic among children, adults with intellectual impairment, psychiatric illness or alcoholism, and dental prosthetic-wearing elderly subjects. However, toothbrush swallowing is rare, with only approximately 40 reported cases. CONCLUSION: Bowel perforation by foreign bodies can mimic acute appendicitis and should be considered in differential diagnoses. Clinically, patients often do not recall ingesting the foreign body, which makes the clinical diagnosis more challenging, and a correct diagnosis is frequently delayed. Several radiological investigations, such as small- bowel series, ultrasonography, and computed tomography scans, may lead to the correct diagnosis, but in most patients, the diagnosis is not confirmed until the surgical intervention has been performed. A Sewpaul, F Shaban, AK

I use an Aribex Nomad which is an FDA approved hand held x-ray unit which is FDA approved. MJ

Date Issued: Feb. 10, 2012
Audience:

• Health care providers including dentists, dental care professionals and veterinarians who have purchased or are considering purchasing a hand-held dental X-ray unit.

Device:
A small, hand-held device intended for dental X-ray examinations.
Purpose:
The FDA is issuing this communication to alert health care providers, including dentists, dental care professionals and veterinarians, about the illegal sale of hand-held dental X-ray units that have not been reviewed by the FDA. The FDA is concerned that these devices may not be safe or effective and could potentially expose the user and the patient to unnecessary and potentially harmful X-rays.
Summary of Problem and Scope:
In order to be legally marketed in the U.S., hand-held dental X-ray units must comply with FDA’s radiation safety and medical device requirements. Manufacturers of these devices must submit premarket notifications for evaluation by the FDA for safety and effectiveness before the product is cleared for sale in the U.S. Manufacturers of these devices are required to register annually with the FDA in addition to other requirements.
The FDA is aware of hand-held dental X-ray units that do not meet these requirements being sold online by manufacturers outside the U.S. and directly shipped to customers in the U.S.
All hand-held dental X-ray units that have been certified by the manufacturer to meet the FDA’s radiation safety standards bear a certification label/tag, a warning label, and an identification (ID) label/tag on the unit's housing. All labels/tags should be in the English language and permanently affixed or inscribed on each product so that they are legible and readily accessible when the X-ray unit is fully assembled for use.
The CERTIFICATION LABEL should state: "This product complies with 21 CFR 1020.30 - 1020.31", "This product complies with 21 CFR Subchapter J" or other similar language.
The WARNING LABEL must be on the x-ray panel of the unit and state these exact words: "This X-ray unit may be dangerous to patient and operator unless safe exposure factors, operating instructions and maintenance schedules are observed."
The IDENTIFICATION (ID) LABEL must contain:

• The full name and address of the manufacturer of the unit.
• The place of manufacture
• The month and year of manufacture

Recommendations:
To ensure that you purchase and use hand-held dental X-ray units reviewed and tested to meet the FDA’s standards for radiation-emitting electronic products:

1. Verify that your device bears certification, warning and ID labels as described above.
2. Ask your vendor whether the device has been reviewed and cleared by the FDA.
3. Access the FDA Medical Device Approvals and Clearances searchable database to verify that the X-ray unit you are using has been reviewed by the FDA.

For additional information on state requirements applicable to hand-held X-ray systems, refer to your state’s radiation control program regulations.
If you become aware of a device that you think is hazardous or does not meet FDA’s radiation safety or premarket clearance requirements, contact your state regulatory agency, which will then notify the FDA. The Conference of Radiation Control Program Directors (CRCPD) website has a list of contacts for each state.
FDA Activities:

• The FDA is notifying state regulatory authorities, dental professional organizations, veterinary medical associations, and other health organizations about the safety risks associated with use of these devices.
• The FDA will continue to monitor this problem and keep the public informed as new information becomes available.
• The FDA will forward any substantive information that appears criminal in nature to the FDA’s Office of Criminal Investigations.

Contact Information:
If you have questions about this communication, please contact the Division of Small Manufacturers, International and Consumer Assistance (DSMICA) at DSMICA@FDA.HHS.GOV, 800-638-2041 or 301-796-7100.
This document reflects the FDA’s current analysis of available information, in keeping with our commitment to inform the public about ongoing safety reviews of medical devices.