Dentistry Today — January/February 2025

Inside this issue

Excerpts from the issue. Open the digital edition to read any page in full.

1. Inside Front Cover

   THERE'S NEVER BEEN A BETTER TIME TO ADD SAME-DAY DENTISTRY TO YOUR PRACTICE fastmill.io Pair with your intraoral scanner of choice to mill BruxZir® NOW crowns with no oven needed. • Deliver same-day solutions for a range of case types straight from the mill in under an hour* • Generate AI-enhanced designs in a single click • Access on-demand training and support from a real Glidewell technician MSRP $54,995 Choose your glidewell.io™ bundle for just $99 / month for 12 months¹ Select any combination of glidewell.io™ In-Office Solution products for one low monthly payment. fastscan.io™ SCANNING SOLUTION Get a next-gen…

2. Page 8

   Paperback Writer Happy New Year. Last year finished with a few blockbuster announcements in the dental world. While Patterson Dental being bought by private equity made big news (which I will cover later in the year), I'd like to talk about another announcement in our industry, just before Christmas. Dental Products Report (DPR) ceased operations. All the employees were surprised to hear it was their last day. You might be thinking, why would I report about a competitor? The truth is that dental magazines are part of a community, just like a dental office down the street from yours. We…

3. Page 10

   Is Dentistry Ready to Assume its Rightful Place in Healthcare? Change has changed! The future is not an echo of the past. New science and technologies have finally shown how oral care can impact overall health. This has accelerated the convergence of dentistry and medicine as the consumerization of health care has amplified the both. These facts require a critical rethinking of all clinical and business protocols for dental practices and vendors/suppliers. Dentistry needs a new business model. FIGHTING UNCERTAINTY Does leadership perceive healthcare as being in a state of disruption, creating uncertainty and fear, or does it see the…

4. Page 12

   VIEWPOINT continued from page 8 Medicine 3.0 • Vision is health span, quality of life. It focuses on prevention. • Implementation is utilizing science and technology to diagnose prior to the onset of disease or destruction of tissue. A 3.0 practice is more aligned with professional ethics than a "less for disease" approach, which is forever tied to the rpm's of the handpiece. Recognize the fact that just bolting 3.0 science and technology onto a 2.0 practice will never maximize the full value for the consumer, the practice, or the vendors. HOW DO WE GET THERE? 1. The Absence of…

5. Page 14

   Advanced Education for Dentists Amy Morgan, vice president, practice growth strategy at Spear Education, discusses key strategies to drive dental practice excellence in 2025. Q: What are the most important values for a successful dental practice? A: To ensure the business is viable, it is essential to do an audit on the 4 dental practice pillars every year for continuous growth. The pillars are: 1. Foundational systems: Do you have and maintain the standard procedures and protocols that support great dentistry, like scheduling, continuing care, patient experience, and treatment presentation? 2. Team alignment: Is your team highly engaged, professionally trained,…

6. Page 16

   Streamlined Service and Honest Pricing: The Power of BISCO's Direct-to-You Promise Since 1981, BISCO, Inc. has built a reputation as a trusted innovator in restorative dental products. Under the guidance of founder Dr. Byoung Suh, BISCO has maintained a customer-driven focus, delivering cutting-edge, high-quality materials delivered directly to dental professionals. BISCO takes pride in its Direct-to-You promise, ensuring each product is affordable and delivered straight to one's practice, with everyone's unique needs in mind. BISCO's Direct-to-You Promise: Middleman-Free, Customer Service-Focused From its start, BISCO's mission has remained centered on the customer, a commitment strongly embodied in the Direct-to-You promise. With…

7. Page 18

   DIRECTA ceramir Innovation Beyond the Ordinary. NEW PRODUCTS! Ceramir CAD/CAM i-BLOCK Ceramir i-BLOCKS can be used for screw-retained single abutment crowns, mesostructures, and final crowns. Its antibacterial properties and design help maintain a good mucosal seal, preventing biofilm and bacteria growth. The material also provides a shock-absorbing effect similar to a natural tooth, handling occlusal stress effectively. Ceramir CAD/CAM BLOCKS Ceramir CAD/CAM BLOCKS are a new type of indirect restorative material. They are manufactured using an advanced, patented laser sintering technology which creates a single glass phase material embedded in a hybrid polymer matrix. This results in a block that…

8. Page 20

   America Cutting-Edge Curing Unit Increases Efficiency, Reduces Costs RIDGEFIELD PARK, NJ—The DentaMile Cure RS XL curing unit was engineered to meet the demands of large-scale dental laboratories. Designed for labs with multiple printers seeking to optimize efficiency, it can cure up to 96 dental models simultaneously, making it an ideal solution for high-volume operations. Featuring 360° illumination and advanced vacuum technology, the DentaMile Cure RS XL ensures consistently high-quality curing results. Its vacuum system also reduces operating costs by eliminating the need for inert gas, making it more efficient than conventional units. It integrates seamlessly into existing 3D printing environments…

9. Page 22

   AdDent Composite-Warming Dispenser Reduces Micro-Leakage and Voids DANBURY, Conn.–The latest Compex HD Heated Dispenser takes composite warming to a higher level. Heating composites before placement (1) improves their physical properties and increases flowability, (2) reduces micro-leakage and voids, and (3) provides better adaptation to cavity walls. It is an easy-to-use, handheld rechargeable instrument that heats compules to the ideal 155°F (68°C) temperature in 40 seconds or less. There is no drop in temperature when bringing the composite to the prepared cavity. The unit maintains asepsis with silicone sleeves and barrier bags. It can be used for up to 100 restorations…

10. Page 24

    Dental Savings Club Intraoral Camera Easily Captures Images From Hard-To-Reach Areas MONTREAL—The WolfCam's combination of HD images (1,280 x 720p) and user-friendly features is a game-changer for dental professionals. Its slim design and automatic auto-focus are handy for finding those hard-to-reach areas. With its 105° view angle and automatic autofocus, capturing HD images (1,280 x 720p) sounds like a breeze. The slim, lightweight design is definitely a plus for maneuverability. And the freeze before capturing feature should help with getting the perfect shot without any blur. The WolfCam's sleeves allow it to produce a crystal clear image at an amazing…

11. Page 26

    Directa USA CAD/CAM Blocks Feature Dentin-Like Flexibility NEWTOWN, Conn.–Ceramic CAD/CAM BLOCKS are an innovative material created with advanced patented laser sintering technology, resulting in a single glass-phase hybrid matrix. This gives them the strength of lithium disilicate, the aesthetics of feldspathic ceramics, and dentin-like flexibility (20 GPa) for shock absorption and reduced occlusal stress. Their natural translucency and high-gloss surface mimic natural teeth after minimal polishing. Ideal for crowns, inlays, onlays, and veneers, Ceramir blocks can be milled to thin margins while maintaining edge stability. Crowns require just 1.5-mm thickness in occlusal areas and veneers can be as thin as…

12. Page 28

    Pulpdent Bulk-Fill Restorative Raises Standard of Care by Providing Natural Remineralization Support WATERTOWN, Mass.–ACTIVA BioACTIVE Bulk Flow is a new addition to Pulpdent's flagship ACTIVA line of groundbreaking dental restorative materials. It raises the standard of care for bulk-fill procedures by supporting the natural remineralization process, providing defense against secondary caries, and offering superior esthetics through its ShadeFusion universal shade matching technology. ACTIVA BioACTIVE Bulk Flow also gives dentists a powerful new tool to perform Class II restorations, one of the most common treatments in dentistry. As a next-generation product, ACTIVA BioACTIVE Bulk Flow not only raises treatment standards, but…

13. Page 30

    #1 RECOMMENDED SUPPLEMENT OF IMPLANTOLOGISTS DENTAL IMPLANT AND BONE GRAFT PATIENTS BONE-TITE OSSEOINTEGRATION SUPPORT SUPPLEMENT Bone building vitamins, minerals, and key nutrients Helps fortify bone and soft tissue in preparation for surgery Supports soft tissue healing and implant placement after surgery Assists overall osseointegration To request a complimentary BONE-TITE® sample, patient starter coupons, and more information .bonetite.com/samplerequest bonetite@mediniche.com 888-325-2395 Use a phone camera to scan MediNiche International, Inc.— www.bonetite.com Copyright 2023®MediNiche All rights reserved. INNOVATIONS Solventum 3D Printed Attachments Poised to Alter Treatment ST. PAUL, Minn.–3M Clarity Precision Grip Attachments are designed to solve one of the biggest challenges with…

14. Page 32

    Advantage Dental Products Desensitizer Significantly Increases Bond Strength LAKE ORION, Mich.—Hemaseal & CIDE Desensitizer eliminates post-op sensitivity with its proven 4% chlorhexidine formula. Compatible with all dentin adhesives and soft tissue friendly, it can also significantly increase bond strength while providing as much as 2 times the antimicrobial capability compared to other desensitizers. Safe Hemaseal and CIDE provides daily protection against sensitivity and microleakage. It is available in a traditional bottle (10 mL) or single dose deliveries. For a free sample, visit the website located at advantagedentalinc.com/request-sample. USE FREE info card, Markson Dental Matrix System Delivers Restorations Mimicking Natural Tooth…

15. Page 36

    Air-Driven Handpieces Bien-Air Dental Featuring the smallest head in an air-driven handpiece at 12.1 mm, the Tornado® spins up to 410,000 rpm with 4 asymmetrical mixed spins at only 58 dBA. It incorporates PVD coating externally and Peiton Turbines internally, realizing power and precision. It also contains a sterilizable anti-retraction valve and a patented Cool Touch button with heat-guard technology to maximize patient safety. For more information, call (800) 433-8871 (2436) or visit the website bienair.com. 90L/Z890L one can experience the unprecedented cutting power of one of the industry's best-in-class, 44 W air turbine handpiece as it delivers unprecedented cutting…

16. Page 38

    Industry News Shofu Highlights Third-Year Dental Students on Embark on an inspiring journey with third-year dental students from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine's School of Dental Medicine as they navigate the challenges and triumphs of their dental education. This quarterly article program, to be published on , will highlight the students' personal stories, showcasing their dedication, resilience, and growth. Each post will include reflections on their experiences, offering valuable insights that are meaningful to both younger and older readers, starting with an introduction to the students and their biographies. Whether you're currently studying dentistry or reflecting on your own…

17. Page 40

    Unique Properties of Jaw Stem Cells Could Help Repair Damage Among the bones of the body, the jaw is unique. During embryonic development, jawbones arise from different types of stem cells compared to those of the leg or arm. Even some bone disorders have distinctive characteristics when they occur in the jaw. Now, researchers at Penn Dental Medicine are working to uncover the molecular reasons for these differences, with implications that could help in healing following surgery and in the treatment of defects in the maxillofacial region. "Stem cells isolated from the maxilla and mandible have much higher regenerative properties,…

18. Page 42

    Attend Hinman for World-Class CE and Hospitality The Thomas P. Hinman Dental Meeting will take place from March 20 through March 22 at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta. With more than 200 courses and special events to choose from, there is something for everyone. You can test out new products in the vast exhibit hall or join everyone on Friday night for Hinman's Night Out: Tailgate at the College Football Hall of Fame. Register by February 20 for discounted registration fees. Students are always free. For more information, visit hinman.org. PDA Conference Heads to Texas in March Productive…

19. Page 44

    Carbide Burs Spring Health Products Gold Titanium Nitride-coated carbide dental laboratory burs are the pinnacle of precision and durability. Engineered with cutting-edge technology, these burs feature a robust carbide construction for unparalleled strength. The gold Titanium Nitride coating enhances wear resistance, ensuring prolonged lifespan and consistent performance. Meticulously crafted, these burs deliver superior cutting efficiency, making them essential for dental professionals. The gold coating adds increased longevity while symbolizing the commitment to excellence that defines Spring Health Products. For more information, call toll-free at (800) 800-1680 or visit springhealthproducts.com. USE FREE info card, Microcopy The NeurBur Max2 Metal Cutter is…

20. Page 46

    DENTISTRY TODAY 9th ANNUAL Top Innovative Products Dentistry Today's Ninth Annual Top Innovative Products are selected based on lead generation. These products appeared in our Innovations section throughout the past year. Ultradent Products Universal Composite Provides Unprecedented Shade Matching Transcend universal composite is an innovative dental composite material used for direct and indirect restorations in the anterior and posterior regions. It provides unprecedented shade matching with just one universal body shade due to its patented Resin Particle Match technology that eliminates the need for a blocker or opaqeur to hide darker underlying colors. For anterior cases that demand more aesthetic…

21. Page 48

    Top Innovative Products Premier Dental Diamond Burs Provide More Efficient Workflow and Less Chair Time Experienced dentists know that not all diamond burs are created equal. That's why they've preferred Two Striper ultra-premium diamond burs for more than 40 years. It delivers faster, cooler, more precise cutting than electroplated brands. Two Striper stays sharp longer for multiple preps—and that means a more efficient workflow, less chair time, and happier patients. It is the only bur made from a select grade of natural diamonds with the proprietary PB.S. brazing process, which is the best bonding system in the industry (data on…

22. Page 50

    Top Innovative Products GuruNanda Oral Rinse Merges Ayurvedic Wisdom With Modern Science GuruNanda Oil Pulling Oral Rinse is a groundbreaking, pre-brush rinse that merges ancient Ayurvedic wisdom with modern science. Formulated with fractionated coconut oil (MCT oil), essential oils (such as peppermint, clove, and oregano), and vitamins D3, E, and K2, this oil-based rinse naturally enhances oral hygiene. Clinical studies have shown that using this rinse for just 2 minutes supports gum hygiene. It helps flush away impurities and debris, making it an excellent addition to a pre-brushing routine. It supports natural teeth whitening, promotes gum hygiene, and delivers lasting…

23. Page 52

    Top Innovative Products MouthWatch Intraoral Camera Provides Clear Patient Visuals The MouthWatch Plus+ HD Intraoral Camera offers true 1080p HD intraoral imaging. It captures high-definition images and streams video in more than one billion color shades, allowing for clear, detailed patient visuals that improve patient education and case acceptance. Featuring adjustable LED illumination for glare-free images, a fast, blur-free, 60-GPS video feed, as well as top-and-bottom capture and lighting controls for multiple grasp options, this camera makes it easy to capture exactly what's needed. The clinical-grade, high-strength glass lens guarantees durability and crystal-clear images. The setup process is quick and…

24. Page 54

    Top Innovative Products Ritter Dental Chair Enables Practices to Elevate Operations The Vanguard Dental Unit is a game-changer in dental equipment that combines cutting-edge technology with exceptional value. It enables practices to elevate their operations with a unit designed to deliver performance and style. It stands out with its seamless electric lift, offering a sturdy build that supports more than 400 lbs. Its ambidextrous design, featuring a 330° swivel, ensures effortless access and greater flexibility for the dentist. This versatile unit comes with dedicated delivery systems for both the dentist and the assistant. The assistant's side boasts up to 4…

25. Page 56

    Top Innovative Products Pac-Dent Bonding Agent Ensures Superior Adhesion for Direct Restorations Rodin Bond is a cutting-edge universal bonding agent designed to elevate restorative dentistry to new heights. Built with the same advanced nanohybrid technology that powers the Rodin Rosin's line, it delivers exceptional adhesion in 3D printed and conventional dental restorations. Rodin Bond provides best-in-class bond strength for 3D printed restorative applications and ensures superior adhesion for direct restorations. The Rodin Bond system features Sensiguard, an innovative dual-function primer and densitizer. Sensiguard enhances effectiveness by sealing dentin tubules to prevent postoperative sensitivity while priming the surface for optimal bonding,…

26. Page 58

    Top Innovative Products Dental Plus USA Material Enables Quick Chairside Modifications Every clinic has the same problems with zirconia. The material is extremely hard, brittle, and if the zirconia breaks, it's catastrophic for the patient. The solution is G-CAM, a revolutionary material that is transforming the landscape of restorative dentistry. With FDA approval for final restoration, this innovative, PMMA-based material (nano-reinforced with graphene) offers a wide range of benefits for clinics, laboratories, and patients. The material's ease of use is another major advantage for dental clinics. G-CAM can be easily adjusted without the need for specialized tools, allowing for quick…

27. Page 60

    Top Innovative Products Dentsply Sirona Retainer Features High Level of Strength Without Compromising Effectiveness Help prevent patients' teeth from relapsing by providing SureSmile Retainers once they've completed their orthodontic treatment. These retainers can be used on patients who have had their teeth straightened using any type of orthodontic treatment, not just SureSmile. With SureSmile Retainers, you get the freedom and flexibility to order exactly what your patients need. Whether it's multiple sets of retainers for a patient who just finished his or her orthodontic treatment or a single-arch replacement for a patient that has lost his or her retainer, SureSmile…

28. Page 62

    Top Innovative Products Hiossen Implant Produces Simple Insertion and Maximum Stability The EM Implant is a one-body implant designed for 2 surgical indications, including narrow interradental areas and denture prostheses for edentulous patients. EM Narrow Ridge's optimized design and abutment size enable the creation of prostheses without modification. EM Denture's micro thread distributes mastication force throughout the bone structure, making it a perfect choice for immediate loading. With body and threads intended for simple insertion and maximum stability, the EM implant's ability to correct the implant direction during insertion promotes a high success rate, even in the narrow ridges. For…

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    Top Innovative Products L&R Ultrasonics Ultrasonic Test Strips Measure Multiple Variable of Cleaning Process UltraDose WaveCheck Ultrasonic Test Monitor Strips (UDS1930) make it easier than ever to monitor the peak performance of one's ultrasonic cleaner and solution. Each strip measures multiple variables of the cleaning process at once. Make WaveCheck part of the infection control protocol and give machines a checkup at any time. The strips come with 50 single-use monitor strips in each box and include a holder. For more information, call (201) 991-5330 or visit lrultrasonics.com/solutions/ultrasonic-wavecheck-ultrasonic-test-monitor. ffers Easy Mobility, Quick Setup Designed for easy and affordable mobility, the…

30. Page 66

    Building an Implant Practice by Advancing Your Clinical Skills Timothy F. Kosinski, DDS Dental implants are providing the dental profession the ability to dramatically improve function by eliminating disease and at the same time create exceptional smile design. The requirements for this mode of therapy are specific and the rules to achieve predictable long-term satisfaction are reviewed in this issue of Dentistry Today. Inadequate bone viability in the posterior maxilla can be corrected with surgical procedures certainly within the wheelhouse of the trained practitioner. Modern technology improves the ability to visualize any case finished prior to any surgical intervention. Digital…

31. Page 68

    Predictable Sinus Augmentation: Viable Options for the General Practitioner INTRODUCTION Reconstruction of edentulous areas with dental implants is a viable alternative to conventional dental procedures and has become rather mainstream within the profession and to our patients. Candidates must exhibit adequate quality and quantity of bone prior to any surgical intervention to meet the patient's requirement for emergence profile and tooth design. Anatomical considerations are evaluated, and treatment options are presented to the patient. When procedures are done well, patients receive therapy that is relatively routine and non-stressful, providing both function and aesthetics. The lack of available hard tissue complicates…

32. Page 69

    calcium sulfates, polymers, bioactive glass, and calcium phosphates of various compositions and sintering. Allografts need to be protected from invagination of epithelium to allow for the integration process to proceed physiologically without interference. Many membranes are also available to the practitioner but must be chosen carefully to promote the desired result. The resorbable membrane discussed here resorts in 3 to 4 months and comprises purified intact collagen from porcine peritoneum tissue. It is easily repositioned for precise adjustments and placement (Newport Biologics [Glidewell]). The alloplastic material used is referred to as an OsteoGen Plug (IMPL LTD). It is a homogenous…

33. Page 70

    IMPLANTS tain a space over time. A prime cellular environment is created during the conversion of the material. The OsteoGen allogeneic material is non-sintered, and is not a ceramic. Calcium ions are afforded into the surgical site where boneconversion occurs at an optimal level. CBCT analysis (Vatech America) determines the available hard tissue and vital anatomy, showing the axial, sagittal, and coronal planes. The axial plane is the plane parallel to the ground, thus dividing the face from top to bottom. The coronal plane shows the plane perpendicular to the ground, dividing the face from front to back. Finally, the…

34. Page 71

    IMPLANTS 69 Figures 15 and 16. Four-month tissue healing and new reflection illustrating the bone turnover. Figures 17 and 18. Two dental implants were strategically placed and torqued to an impressive 45 Ncm in the edentulous maxillary posterior. Figures 19 and 20. The site was sutured, and the implants were allowed to integrate for an additional 4 months. Figures 21 to 23. After integration, the implants were uncovered and impressed, and the 3-mm healing abutment was placed. This created a healthy gingival cuff prior to implant-retained crown seating. Figure 24. Final sagittal view of the integrated implant and implant-retained crown.…

35. Page 72

    Anatomical considerations are evaluated, and treatment options are presented to the patient. or masses within the sinus itself; very eral plate was slowly and carefully thick or very thin sinus walls; or vital elevated, creating a new cortical floor anatomy that may inhibit proper for the augmentation material (Figure 6). technique, including impingement Figures 7 and 8 illustrate how of the septum.11 The posterior lateral the first layer of OsteoGen Calcium nasal artery, the infraorbital artery, Apatite material had enough firm and the posterior superior alveolar substance to carefully lift the sinus artery are present in the surgical envifloor. Pioneer…

36. Page 74

    The Quaternary Axiom: Implantology Conformity System INTRODUCTION When it comes to implant dentistry, it is proposed that there are 4 key treatment axioms that should be prioritized for long term success: implant location, design, guided surgery, and timing (Figure 1). Together, these 4 core principles form the cornerstones of dental implantology and help to ensure successful implant solutions with fewer complications. Each factor is important on its own, but when taken together, they provide an optimization-comprehensive approach to tooth replacement therapy. In this article, we will explore how each of the core principles work together to promote longevity and success…

37. Page 76

    Figure 1. It is self-evident that where, what, how, and when you perform tooth replacement solutions is important. In short, the need for prudent clinical judgment in any of these 4 critical decisions on clinical success cannot be overemphasized. Figure 2. The implant in the No. 9 position was placed too facially and distally, resulting in a less-than-ideal PFM solution, as well as ugly show-through in the gingival one third. Figure 3. Cantilever prosthetic solutions like this create food traps, increase the risk for caries on natural teeth on the abutment, and increase damaging rotational forces. The distance from the…

38. Page 77

    Figure 8. (a) An implant with a thread pitch of 1 mm needs only 5 mm of implant length engaging native bone to meet the 5-thread guideline for stability. (b) An implant with a 2 mm pitch and only 4 to 5 total threads requires the entire implant length engaging native bone to meet the 5-thread criteria. custom fit guides to direct dental implants into bone with precision and accuracy. Lastly, type 4 fully guided surgery minimizes positional errors and helps reduce any risk of future complications. This procedure accounts for the nonhomogeneous anisotropic nature of bone and offers greater…

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    Simplifying Restoration for the Full-Arch Implant Patient A Complete Digital Workflow in Two to Three Patient Visits INTRODUCTION A very large population exists in the United States with at least one edentulous dental arch. More than 36 million Americans are completely edentulous.¹ In addition to that, a significant segment of the population has failing complete dentitions. These patients, when seeking care, are most commonly found in the general dentist's office. The fixed, implant-supported, full-arch restoration has been found to provide a measurable improvement in quality of life for the edentulous patient, as well as having long-term survival rates.²⁻⁴ As dental…

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    Simplifying Restoration for the... continued from page 76 rently used multi-unit abutments in North America can be used for the Nexus solution. There are workflows for the patient with a fixed provisional restoration on multi unit abutments as well as workflows for patients with removable prostheses seated over multi-unit abutments. Figure 1. The Nexus PP-3 restoration includes a gold-anodized, milled titanium bar supporting a monolithic zirconia overlay with a pink-glazed gum. Porcelain highlights may be added to the zircoma overlay. Figure 2. The FP-1 Nexus restoration includes a gold-anodized bar milled directly to the multi-unit interface with a tissue interface…

And 28 more pages — read the whole issue.