Dentistry Today — November/December 2023

Inside this issue

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

1. Page 8

   Your Smiling Face It's that time of year again when the throngs of dental professionals look to see if, and where, their photos appear in our annual collage. The front covers will be posted at least 20 times on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, and other social media platforms. It is an almost impossible task to have everyone on these pages as there are so many great educators in our field. This year, there are many familiar faces, but they are surrounded by some new stars. If you have viewed this year, you have noticed a change in some of the…

2. Page 10

   Revolutionizing Dentistry: The Power of Point-of-Care Salivary Testing Almost a decade into my private dental practice, I had an epiphany. Despite running a highly ranked dental practice in San Diego, something felt amiss. My patients desired transparency and a personalized approach to their oral health. Although I strived to meet their expectations, I felt there was a crucial element missing—a tool that could truly customize dentistry and make it more patient-centric. Through my years as a dentist, I spent a significant amount of time fixing teeth with a drill. I witnessed mothers puzzled by why one child had more cavities…

3. Page 12

   VIEWPOINT continued from page 8 point of care dental saliva test that delivers easily understandable results and recommendations. Oral Genome revolutionizes the dental practice workflow by collecting saliva in a vial, placing it on a test card, taking a photo skin to mobile check deposits, and providing results and recommendations in less than 10 minutes. Simplifying Saliva Testing in a Dental Practice The seamless integration of Oral Genome within a typical dental practice is remarkable. Patients can take the Oral Genome test during their visits, alongside routine procedures such as x-rays, intraoral photos, cleanings, and examinations. Dentists and hygienists then…

4. Page 14

   Treating People, Not Patients In his new book, Michael Sonick, DMD, talks about his mission to improve the quality of patients' lives as well as the lives of everyone he meets. Q: What inspired you to write Treating People, Not Patients? A: My motivation for writing this book stemmed from my personal journey as both a patient and a professional. A traumatic bike accident at 8 left me with 2 broken front teeth that remained unrepaired until I turned 18. This experience as a patient deepened my empathy and led me to develop a keen interest in anterior reconstruction with…

5. Page 16

   Digital Dentistry Unveiled: Advancements, ROI, and the Power of Technology Richard J. Martin, DDS, discusses some of the latest happenings involving CBCT. Q: The field of dentistry is experiencing rapid changes in response to a fast-changing world. What are your thoughts on the noteworthy shifts and emerging trends within dentistry? A: When we look at dentistry today as it relates to digital technology and digital dentistry, it's obvious that there is a shift. If you look at the ads in magazines and journals, there are a lot of new companies that are all offering digital solutions and amazing articles. Also,…

6. Page 18

   Smart CAD Dental Studio Digital Dental CAD Design Center Offers High-Quality Products ZHUHAI CITY, Guangdong Province, China-Smart Dental CAD Studio (SDS) is a digital dental CAD design center that works with dental laboratories, dentists, and milling centers around the world. It offers same-day design service and high quality. SDS is a startup that was created by Jerry Liu in 2013. Its designers have rich experience in designing full-contour crowns and bridges on exocad and 3Shape software, among others. All designers have good command of dental technology and anatomy. It can design full contours, veneers, custom implants, implant bars, aligner designs,…

7. Page 20

   Leading Dental Equipment Made in the United States Aseptico manufactures a comprehensive line of dental motor systems for oral surgery, implant placement, restorative dentistry, and endodontics. The new i7000 Series Implant Motor is designed to simplify dental implant procedures by providing the features most desired by today's implant dentists. Aseptico has developed the most comprehensive line of mobile and portable dentistry equipment in the world, including its award-winning GO Portable System, which weighs only 32 lbs and can operate via external battery power. The Penguin II Implant Stability Monitor provides the dentist with real-time implant placement for greater confidence determining…

8. Page 22

   Jazz Imaging Sensor Subscription Service Allows for Correct Sensor-to-Provider Ratio SAN JOSE, Calif.–Jazz Imaging designed a new sensor, manufacturing it in its own Silicon Valley factory. It is sold directly to dentists for a low upfront cost with reasonable monthly subscription fees, which include an unlimited, no deductible warranty and support. In 2017, Jazz Imaging launched the first sensor subscription model in the industry. To date, thousands of offices have adopted the subscription service as their preferred method to add and replace sensors. The subscription model also overcomes the common problem of not having the correct sensor-to-provider ratio. Jazz Imaging…

9. Page 26

   America Composite System Offers Maximum Shade Combinations RIDGEFIELD PARK, NJ–The new Ecosite Elements nanohybrid universal composite shade system is DMG's latest breakthrough. It can be used to master composite restorations, especially aesthetically challenging cases. It is the result of countless discussions and workshops with leading clinicians, coupled with innovative research conducted by scientists. The nanohybrid composite is intended for dental professionals to deliver aesthetically exceptional restorations quickly and efficiently. The keys to Ecosite Elements' unique capabilities are as follows: (1) a compact range of shades across 3 modules (True, Layer, and Flght light) that represents a much more manageable selection…

10. Page 28

    Dental Handpieces Set New Benchmark for Precision and Efficiency HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill.-There have been updates to the all-new Ti-Max Z Series of air turbine dental handpieces. Redefining the standards of dental care, the Ti-Max Z Series 2990L boasts a full 44 W of power for enhanced functionality, setting a new bench mark for precision and efficiency in dental procedures. The Ti-Max Z2 Series—which includes the Z990L, Z890L, and Z micro—inher its the DNA of the renowned Z Series and undergoes an evolutionary leap to deliver unprecedented cutting power and performance. All 3 handpieces are equipped with NSK's "DYNAMIC POWER SYSTEM"…

11. Page 30

    DENTISTRY TODAY 14th ANNUAL READERS' CHOICE TOP 50 TECHNOLOGY PRODUCTS Dentistry Today's 14th Annual Readers' Choice Top 50 Technology Products, selected on the basis of lead generation, represent some of the profession's most innovative technology products. The products appear in no particular order. Shofu Dental Digital Dental Camera The EyeSpecial digital dental camera that is made exclusively for dentistry is back. This unique and innovative camera allows the entire dental team to take perfect pictures every time—no photography skills are needed. Easily take stress-free, high-quality images for case documentation, lab collaboration, and patient communication by merely pressing one of the…

12. Page 32

    READERS' CHOICE TOP 50 TECHNOLOGY PRODUCTS Ultradent Products Laser The Gemini EVO laser leverages its high, 100W peak power and dual-wavelength versatility. Its 100% super-pulsed power ensures swift, low-heat, and precise incisions in soft tissue. It offers 2 wavelengths (810 nm + 980 nm) that can be used individually or together, producing 3 wavelength modes. The Gemini EVO laser boasts 16 preset procedures, categorized for efficient, user-friendly operation. Integrated Wi-Fi simplifies software updates and technical support, syncing with the dash board to furnish vital machine and procedure data. Included are 3 photobiomodulation adapters (3, 7, and 25 mm) for maximum…

13. Page 34

    READERS' CHOICE TOP 50 TECHNOLOGY PRODUCTS Solmetex Isolation System DryShield is the ideal dental isolation solution, combining a high-suction evacuator, bite block, tongue shield, cheek retractor, and oral pathway protector in one efficient device. This innovative approach streamlines procedures, saving 25% to 40% of your time while improving outcomes. With DryShield, you can work on 2 quadrants simultaneously, ensuring optimal retraction, moisture control, and enhanced visibility. This eliminates the need for 4-handed dentistry, resulting in higher-quality work. A study showed that 95% of dentists surveyed find DryShield simplifies their restorative procedures. DryShield provides hands-free isolation, replacing traditional tools like cotton…

14. Page 35

    DryShield Work faster, work better: DryShield empowers excellent dentistry Without DryShield With DryShield Superior access, simplifies and improves outcomes. That's the DryShield Difference! DryShield is isolation simplified, performing all the tasks of a high-suction evacuator, bite block, tongue shield, cheek retractor, and oral pathway protector in one easy-to-use device. 85% of dentists said DryShield improved their patients' experience by increasing comfort and reducing chair time.* Complete procedures 25-40% faster while achieving optimal results* [Chart showing procedure times for Fillings, Veneers, Crowns, Inlays/Onlays, and CEREC Crowns with corresponding time measurements] Reduced costs Improved procedure quality 82% savings in consumables costs with…

15. Page 36

    READERS' CHOICE TOP 50 TECHNOLOGY PRODUCTS Zest Dental Solutions Removable Attachment System The LOCATOR R-Tx offers 25% greater wear resistance and up to 60° of total implant divergence, eliminating the need for pre-angled abutments. Its pivoting technology allows patients to easily align and properly seat their overdentures. The system also offers enhanced customizable retention for every patient with low-, medium-, and high-retention inserts for standard-range and limited-range inserts. LOCATOR R-Tx makes it easy with a standard .050 in./1.25 mm hex drive mechanism, as well as one vent, all-in-one packaging that includes the abutment, denture attachment housing with processing insert, retention…

16. Page 38

    READERS' CHOICE TOP 50 TECHNOLOGY PRODUCTS AMD Lasers Curing Light Monet is the world's first handheld curing laser. From the inventor of LED curing lights comes the future of composite curing. Laser technology provides consistent dispersion of energy and intensity at any distance, meaning the cure is not only instant, but you'll also be confident it's complete. The collimated beam evenly cures deep through composite, allowing for bulk-fills with just an extra click or 2. Soft cures and uneven bonding are a thing of the past. With a faster, better cure than any other curing light (data on file), it's…

17. Page 40

    READERS' CHOICE TOP 50 TECHNOLOGY PRODUCTS Meisinger USA Video Camera The starCam by starMed provides high-resolution recordings compliant with medical standards, a resolution of up to 13 million pixels, 30 FPS, and digital image stabilization. The lightweight starCam enables one to record treatments and operations from the practitioner's view while delivering outstanding footage for presentations, training, and quality assurance. For more information, call (303) 268-5400. al Shade Analyzer Level up your aesthetic workflow with a digital shade guide. The Rayplicker Quick-Shade Cobra shade analyzer uses innovative spectrophotometry that produces accurate and detailed shade-matching data. With a click of a button,…

18. Page 42

    READERS' CHOICE TOP 50 TECHNOLOGY PRODUCTS Hiossen Digital X-Ray Imaging Unit T2 reconstructs 2D and 3D images by converting xray signals into digital signals to analyze the oral and maxillofacial region anatomically. T2's metal artifact reduction function reduces the noise caused by metal materials, resulting in clear images. Supporting multiple fields of vision, from 5 x 5 to 8 x 9, 10 x 9, 12 x 9, 15 x 9 (standard), and 15 x 15 (stitching). T2 is specifically designed for orthodontic treatment, tooth impaction required for implant placement, and sinus analysis to determine the arch morphology. With an 80-µm…

19. Page 43

    READERS' CHOICE TOP 50 TECHNOLOGY PRODUCTS Designs for Vision Loupes The paradigm-shifting REVEAL system allows one to visualize mature biofilm in real time without the use of any pharmaceutical, chemical, or dye. The REVEAL headlight uses a narrow spectrum excitation light to stimulate the byoproducts of the bacteria that are associated with carries, calculus, and periimplantitis, causing them to emit endogenous fluorescence. The REVEAL eyewear filters out the excitation wavelengths to allow clear visualization of the fluorescence. REVEAL enables detection and management of peri-implantitis, as well as confirming successful treatment. The system helps identify and differentiate between active and arrested…

20. Page 44

    42 . 1 READERS' CHOICE TOP 50 TECHNOLOGY PRODUCTS CHROME GuidedSMILE Surgical/Restorative Guide Unlock your practice's potential and take implant cases to the next level with CHROME GuidedSMILE, which is a game-changing All-on-X guide system. As the leading patented stackable guide on the market (data on file), CHROME GuidedSMILE has become the go-to solution for general dentists, specialists, and institutions seeking faster, safer, and more predictable full-arch restorations. CHROME was engineered to provide a cutting-edge approach to immediate surgical and restorative solutions, allowing you to pre-plan and guide each step, from strategic bone reduction to seamless implant placement to delivering…

21. Page 45

    READERS' CHOICE TOP 50 TECHNOLOGY PRODUCTS Glidewell Digital Dentistry System TRY GLIDEWELL.IO™ FOR 90 DAYS RISK FREE CHOOSE THE DIGITAL WORKFLOW THAT DESIGNS CROWNS FOR YOU Team members are able to complete crown designs in minutes, and 90% of the time our doctors don't even need to touch the mouse. -- Cary LaCouture, DDS | Parker, CO Graduate of the Baylor College of Dentistry glidewell.io™ user since 2018. The glidewell.io In-Office Solution makes same-day dentistry simple and affordable to clinicians everywhere. An open system design provides the flexibility to pair the CAD/CAM system with an intraoral scanner of your choice…

22. Page 46

    READERS' CHOICE TOP 50 TECHNOLOGY PRODUCTS Dentis USA Digital Guide Center The dental implant landscaping rapidly as guided surgery makes placing implants safer, faster, and more predictable. With the ability to digitally pre-plan the implant angulation and depth, risk is greatly reduced, and restorations can be planned ahead of time. DENTIS Digital Guide Center is making it easier than ever for doctors to utilize this game-changing innovation without having to invest in the equipment or take time to design the guides. For more information, call (323) 677-4363 or visit guide.zenith3d.co.kr/eng. nologies Laser The PerioLase MVP-7 has the first and only…

23. Page 47

    READERS' CHOICE TOP 50 TECHNOLOGY PRODUCTS BrandMax Ultrasonic Cleaning Unit Tri-Clean Ultrasonic Cleaners deliver the next generation of cleaning power. All BrandMax ultrasonic units include a free heating element, a free stainless steel basket, industry-leading cleaning power, cycle time controller, and superior customer service at no additional cost. BrandMax's all-stainless steel construction and "best in class" product support are second to none in the industry. BrandMax offers 5 desktop models and 4 recessed models ranging in size from 1 to more than 5 gal. Combine the BrandMax Tri-Clean Ultrasonic Cleaner with the company's triple enzyme-based enzymatic cleaners for the ultimate…

24. Page 48

    READERS' CHOICE TOP 50 TECHNOLOGY PRODUCTS Align Technology Patient Photo Uploader App The Invisalign Photo Uploader in the Invisalign Practice App simplifies the creation of new Invisalign patient treatment records, captures quality photos, and uploads directly to the Invisalign Doctor Site. It guides Invisalign patients and providers through a step-by-step process to take perfect patient photos without special training. The Invisalign Practice App is a new mobile companion to the Invisalign Doctor Site (iOS) that streamlines practice workflow by putting many of the Invisalign treatment features that doctors use daily, such as photo capture, Invisalign Virtual Care, Invisalign Virtual Appointment,…

25. Page 49

    READERS' CHOICE TOP 50 TECHNOLOGY PRODUCTS AdDent Shade-Matching Light Rite-Lite PRO Shade Matching Light with Hi-CRI LEDs has 3 color temperatures plus a black light spectrum. The operator takes the shade with 5,500 K and then verifies the shade match under incandescent (3,900 K), ambient (3,200 K), and black light. The chosen shade should match all 4 wavelengths. Based on metamerism, this provides a more accurate matching of teeth and dental restorations, regardless of the lighting environment. Rite-Lite PRO has 3 levels of light intensity for better visualization and a fluorescent setting for matching positions to natural dentition fluorescence. It…

26. Page 50

    Digital Impression Systems Align Technology The iTero Element 5D Plus is a powerhouse of capabilities. It's designed to improve the practice and patient experience with state-of-the-art computing power, as well as an elegant design and ergonomics. Enhanced visual visualizations with wider viewing angles provide an unmatched patient experience. Powerful computing advancements enable a smoother and faster scanning experience. The system's NIRI (near infra-red imaging) technology aids in diagnosis and monitoring of interproximal carious lesions above the gingiva. The imaging system is designed to take the patient experience to the next level, helping to grow practices. For more information, call toll-free…

27. Page 51

    DIGITAL IMPRESSION SYSTEMS 49 Glidewell The fastscan.io Scanning Solution combines the speed, accuracy, and light weight of the Medit i700 with a seamless connection to Glidewell for a smooth and user-friendly scanning experience. The fastscan.io is an attractive solution not only to digital dentistry newcomers but also to those looking to expand their clinical possibilities with an additional scanner. It features no monthly fees and comes complete with a portable cart, laptop, and monitor. For more information, call (888) 683-2063 or visit the website glidewell.io/fastscan-io. USE FREE info card, CHOOSE THE SCANNER THAT SIMPLIFIES DIGITAL IMPRESSIONS Scanning with the fastscan.io™…

28. Page 52

    Industry News Timothy F. Kosinski Received Distinguished Dental Editor Award Timothy F. Kosinski, DDS, with ADA president George Shepley, DDS. The American Association of Dental Editors & Journalists (AADEJ) named Timothy F. Kosinski, DDS, as the recipient of the 2023 ADA and AADEJ Distinguished Dental Editor Award for his work as editor of the Academy of General Dentistry publications, General Dentistry and AGD Impact. The award was presented at the AADEJ's 2023 annual meeting on October 5 in a ceremony at the Hyatt Regency Orlando. Dr. Kosinski is also editor of Implants Today at Dentistry Today. AAID Awards Jim Glidewell…

29. Page 56

    Rocky Mountain Dental Convention to be Held in January The Rocky Mountain Dental Convention will take place from January 13 through January 30, 2024, at the Colorado Convention Center in Denver. Attendees will be able to take part in various educational sessions, as well as interactive exhibits and hands-on workshops. There will also be plenty of time to network with industry peers. The Rocky Mountain Dental Convention offers up to 18 hours of continuing education credits. For more information, visit rmcdonline.com. Concord Seminars Presents Seminar for Treating Older Adults "Successfully Treating Older Adults: Techniques for the Entire Dental Team" will…

30. Page 58

    Intraoral Video Cameras DentiMax The TPC Advance CAM intraoral camera makes dental imaging easy and uses the latest in video technology. Its lightweight and excellent optics make it a valuable tool for treatment planning, patient education, and improving case acceptance. It features a large capture size, and its 6-pixel LED lights produce bright, clear video images that are perfect for educating patients on their treatment plans. It has a high-speed direct USB connection and perfectly integrates into DentiMax Software, Aperyx XoVision, Patterson Eaglesoft, Professor Surni, CLINPRO, and more. For more information, call (800) 704-8494 or visit dentimax.com/product-category/sensor-supplies. tch Intraoral Camera…

31. Page 61

    NATIONWIDE LABORATORIES to consider in 2024 Drake Precision Dental Laboratory's Commitment to Quality and Innovation Drake Precision Dental Laboratory is a Charlotte, NC-based, premier full-service dental laboratory. Since 1956, it has proudly delivered uncompromising quality, innovation, and aesthetics to dental practices across the nation. Its dedication to precision-crafted, high-quality, custom-made dental restorations is evident in its work, and the lab is committed to continually exceeding expectations and helping clinicians meet the oral needs of patients. Technology Drake Precision Dental Laboratory embraces the latest advancements in the industry, utilizing state-of-the-art equipment to deliver superior dental solutions. Commitment Drake Precision Dental Laboratory…

32. Page 62

    NATIONWIDE LABORATORIES to consider in 2024 Redefining Partnership in Dentistry Glidewell is one of the world's leading providers of custom restorative services, dental materials, continuing education, and cutting-edge dental technologies. Founded in 1970 in Orange County, Calif, Glidewell is dedicated to driving innovations that simplify treatment and improve lives. The company offers a wide array of restorative, implant, and preventive services created with CAD/CAM workflows that enhance quality and maintain affordability for dentist and patient alike. Backed by decades of experience, Glidewell empowers practitioners with high-quality laboratory services, resources, and customer support. For more information, call (800) 854-7256 or visit…

33. Page 63

    NATIONWIDE LABORATORIES to consider in 2024 dental laboratories, Glidewell has unparalleled insight into the needs and challenges of practitioners. The company's engineers and scientists rely on these insights as they create and evaluate new materials, ensuring that they yield benefits applicable to everyday dentistry. Glidewell's most famous creation to date is BruxZir Zirconia, the No. 1 brand of monolithic zirconia. 3. Technology Alongside its new and ever-changing material solutions, Glidewell also has a dedicated team of computer scientists and engineers who strive to create advanced systems for labs and dentists. Recently, the company has made significant progress with in-office CAD/CAM…

34. Page 64

    Complex Dental Restoration Using Cutting-Edge Technology and a Patient-Centric Approach INTRODUCTION In the realm of contemporary dental practice, intricate cases often provide opportunities to demonstrate the integration of innovative technology and comprehensive clinical management. This case study presents a nuanced account of a patient who presented with a challenging dental scenario necessitating a multifaceted approach to restoration. The primary aim of this study is to illuminate the diagnostic process, treatment planning, and execution of a complex dental reconstruction supported by state-of-the-art techniques and equipment. CASE REPORT Patient Presentation A female patient sought dental care at our clinic with a notable…

35. Page 66

    Complex Dental Restoration... continued from page 62 sive records that provided us with invaluable insights. High-quality clinical photography, supplemented by intraoral x-ray images, allowed for a detailed assessment of the patient's oral condition. However, the key to precision lies in the utilization of advanced imaging modalities. CBCT scans provided intricate 3D reconstructions, granting a deeper understanding of the patient's bone structure and aiding in implant placement planning. The integration of CAD/CAM technology was pivotal. Diagnostic wax-ups were meticulously crafted, facilitating visualization and communication of the intended treat- Figure 1. Preoperative patient smile. Note the high smile line and fractured teeth…

36. Page 67

    Figure 12. Final bridge. Figure 13. Postoperative smile. ...each component seamlessly contributed to a patient-centered and efficient treatment journey. facilitated by the collaborative use of lab technologies. The final product seamlessly married form and function, delivering an exceptional final result (Figures 12 and 13). CONCLUSION In conclusion, this intricate and multifaceted treatment journey underscores the power of technology-enabled dentistry. The judicious integration of advanced imaging, CAD/CAM systems, 3D printing, and collaborative lab technologies not only facilitated precision and efficiency but also contributed to patient confidence and acceptance. The seamless orchestration of each step under a single practitioner's guidance exemplified our…

37. Page 68

    Managing Pediatric Sleep Apnea INTRODUCTION Our nation, our world, is facing an epidemic of unhealthy, disturbed sleep. It is not just overweight, middle-aged adults. Sleep issues run through our society. Three to 12% of children suffer from sleep-disordered breathing (SDB). This encompasses a spectrum of breathing abnormalities that occur during sleep in children. The condition ranges from primary snoring, characterized by noisy breathing without significant airflow obstruction, to more severe forms, such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and central sleep apnea. Prevalence and Risk Factors Risk factors for pediatric SDB include obesity, adenotonsillar hypertrophy, craniofacial abnormalities, neuromuscular disorders, and a…

38. Page 70

    AIRWAY [FIGURE 1: AG was a 6-year-old female who was seen during a routine hygiene exam. Mom reported sleep and behavioral concerns.] [FIGURE 2: An intraoral exam revealed tonsils that were enlarged and inflamed and contributed to airway obstruction.] [FIGURE 3: The intraoral exam showed narrow buccal corridors and constricted and crowded upper and lower arches.] nose, and throat (ENT) doctor for tonsil evaluation. Diagnostic PSG was done, which resulted in a diagnosis of mild obstructive apnea. Tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy were recommended by the ENT. Imaging studies included x-rays and CBCT scans (Figure 4). Some improvement in sleep symptoms was…

39. Page 71

    Figure 9. Increased airway volumes were noted on CBCT after expansion was completed. Children with sleep-disordered breathing present very differently than adults with sleep disturbances do. ENT surgeons, and other healthcare professionals is essential for comprehensive management. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial to prevent complications and optimize a child's health and quality of life. In conclusion, pediatric SBD encompasses a range of breathing disturbances during sleep in children. Early recognition, accurate diagnosis, and tailored treatment plans can significantly improve outcomes and promote healthy development in affected children. Dr. Dassani is an internationally educated dentist practicing in Houston. She…

40. Page 72

    Utilization of 3D Printing With a Ceramic Crown Resin for Long-term Restorations INTRODUCTION Three dimensional printing is being used increasingly for the fabrication of various restorations, and utilization for treatment with crowns, onlays, inlays, and veneers has been the subject of many articles in the general dental practice, where single restorations are frequently performed. This technology allows treatment in a single appointment, eliminating lab fees and decreasing the time required by the patient to be present in the office to complete the treatment, which normally is done in 2 visits that are usually separated by 2 weeks. A resin Ceramic…

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