Dentistry Today — October 2021

Inside this issue

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

1. Page 8

   Celebrate! We are celebrating our 40th year of publishing Dentistry Today. Read Life had a vision of presenting exciting and timely information to dentists and has assembled the top educators over the years in these pages. In the last issue, we featured Dr. Stanley Malamed, an icon in the profession, discussing the 40-year evolution of local anesthetics. It is a great reference (and refresher) about this important part of dental practice that most of us use every day. Don't just put that issue in your "stack." Read it, or at least go online to where we republish every issue. This…

2. Page 10

   Lesson Learned in a Pandemic These are interesting times we are living in. Between a global pandemic, the political climate, and major social issues, we have still had to continue keeping our dental practices open, managing staff, and caring for our patients, no small feat, to say the least. I have had the opportunity to work with many dental practices during this time and one of the biggest lessons I have learned is that every single dental practice needs to implement the role of an infection control coordinator (ICC). You are probably wondering why, or maybe not, since the pandemic…

3. Page 12

   VIEWPOINT continued from page 10 The ICC can streamline protocols such as creating a system that regulates ordering supplies to eliminate overbuy­ing or waste. They can execute protocols that train teams to use supplies more wisely and still maintain compliance. For instance, having clinical team members wear the OSHA-required utility gloves when "turning over" their operatories and reprocessing their contaminated instruments can significantly reduce the number of exam gloves used per patient. With the rising costs of gloves, that one modification can potentially save a dental practice thousands annually. Reason 3. Escape Tempting Disasters Since the pandemic, there has been…

4. Page 14

   What's New on Visit for more exclusive news, expert commentaries, and video interviews with leading clinicians. Here's a look at some recent content: Quick Takes: Dr. Cotca Dr. Feuerstein, Editor-in-Chief of Dentistry Today, discusses an article published last month with its author, Dr. Claudia C. Cotca. The Fundamentals of CHROME GuidedSMILE This eBook is designed for doctors who are interested in digital, full-arch guided reconstruction and want to get started with a preplanned immediate solution. Safer, faster, smaller, and stronger reconstructions are possible with the latest technology in full-arch restorations. CEREC Tessera in the Practice: The Perfect Combination of Speed,…

5. Page 16

   Noise-Induced Hearing Loss Dr. Sam Shamardi discusses why dentists are prone to hearing loss and what they can do about it. Q: How serious an issue is hearing loss in the workforce? A: Believe it or not, hearing loss is actually the most common work-related injury/illness! Q: Then why haven't we heard more about it (excuse the pun)? A: A few reasons. First, hearing loss is not considered a disability. If it was, it would rank as the highest ranked disability in the world, more than any musculoskeletal issue, cardiac issue, cancer, etc. So if tomorrow we would change its…

6. Page 18

   Ergonomic Non-Diode Laser Delivers Predictable, Repeatable Tissue Response BOTHELL, Wash.—The LightScalpel CO2 laser's exclusive flexible-fiber delivery system and pen-like handpieces make it one of the most ergonomic CO2 lasers on the market. The LightScalpel handpiece is held closer to the target tissue than any other CO2 laser brand, which allows for great precision. The laser delivers a predictable and repeatable tissue response, fast ablation, and instant hemostasis. It's the tool of choice for soft tissue procedures, including frenectomies. For more information, call LightScalpel at (866) 589-2722 or visit the website lightscalpel.com. FREEinfo, Camera's Adjustable LED Lighting Matches Specific Clinical Needs…

7. Page 20

   Intraoral Scanner's Software Update Optimizes Performance CHARLOTTE, NC/BENSHEIM, Germany–The latest upgrade of Dentsply Sirona's Connect and CEREC Software, known as 5.2, offers an improved firmware. It provides Primescan and CEREC users with additional options for making treatment more efficient, faster, and more convenient with digital workflows. Primescan intraoral scanner's latest enhancements optimize performance and improve usability as described thanks to its enhanced firmware, which captures up to 1.5 million 3D data points per second. With these enhancements, Primescan is significantly smoother and twice as fast, making it easier to scan successfully, even for relatively inexperienced users (data on file). Important,…

8. Page 21

   To Drill or Not to Drill a suspicious occlusal lesion Ortek A global leader in oral care innovations Introducing the Ortek-ECD™ DENTISTRY TODAY TOP 100 PRODUCTS 2021 Unlike other caries detection systems, the Ortek-ECD measures the conductivity of enamel. The ECD is designed to accurately detect if occlusal lesions have initially breached the dentin-enamel junction, advanced further into the dentin, or are confined to the enamel. The Ortek-ECD is extremely effective in detecting small, incipient lesions that are difficult to diagnose and often go untreated. • Instantly diagnose suspicious occlusal lesions • 100% Sensitivity, 93% Specificity* • Early detection conserves…

9. Page 22

   Cloud Practice Management Software Built Around Modern Workflow HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif.—Asprodentalitis all in one, best-in-class cloud dental practice management software built around a modern and optimized digital workflow. It has all of the same features in other cloud software programs, plus the signature One Page Chart feature, where all clinical information can be seen on a single screen. The software runs in any browser, on any computer and includes scheduling, reporting, charting, practice analytics, appointment reminders, automated messaging/texts, backups, updates, support, and so much more. Software is the command center of one's practice, so it needs to be powerful, yet…

10. Page 23

    Company Applies Progressive Approach to Recycling Dental Metals INDIANAPOLIS–Noble Metal Refining provides peace of mind that goes above and beyond when it comes to properly recycling dental metals. Noble is a fully licensed, industrial refiner of gold, silver, palladium, and platinum, serving many industries nationwide. Noble provides dental professionals and dental organizations with true Chain of Custody and a certificate of destruction, transferring metals directly from one's dental office or organization to Noble's refinery. The company breathes life back into metals by recycling each element into its pure form for repurposing. Noble not only provides relief regarding handling dental metals…

11. Page 24

    Dynamic Navigation and HUD for Endodontic Access INTRODUCTION Directed dentin conservation (DDC) refers to the preservation of dentin structures and may play an important role in increasing the survival rate of endodontically treated teeth. Dynamic navigation uses data from a CBCT scan to provide real-time visual feedback during access cavity preparation. Head-up display (HUD) technology for the surgical operating microscope has been used in different fields of medicine since the 1990s and is reported to enhance ergonomics during surgical procedures. This case report describes the use of dynamic navigation and a surgical operating microscope HUD for contemporary access cavity preparation…

12. Page 25

    ing located apical to the palatal root of tooth No. 3 (Figures 1c and 1d). Tooth No. 3 was diagnosed with pulp necrosis and symptomatic apical periodontitis. Treatment options were discussed, and the patient consented to nonsurgical endodontic treatment with DN guidance using the Navident system (ClaroNav). In order to maintain as much PCD and pulpal root dentin as possible, 3 separate access cavities were planned using the Navident software based on the canal convergence profiles: one to the distobuccal (DB) canal orifice, one to the palatal (P) canal orifice, and one to the mesiobuccal (MB) canal orifice (Figures 1e…

13. Page 26

    Figure 1. (a and b) Preoperative clinical image and periapical radiograph of tooth No. 3. (c and d) CBCT showing an apical finding (white arrows) associated with the palatal root of tooth No. 3. (e) CBCT showing the access cavity to the MB1 orifice is planned virtually on the Navisient software. (f) Navisient software: MB1 (purple), DB (turquoise), and P (orange). (g) The three individual, orifice-directed straightline access cavities were planned in the Navisient software: MB1 (purple), DB (turquoise), and P (orange). or challenges are also limiting factors.24 These limitations are usually not present with DN. Indeed, an access cavity…

14. Page 28

    Innovation in Digital Full-Arch Guided Reconstruction CHROME GuidedSMILE is an innovator in the expanding field of digital full-arch guided reconstruction, recognized for its signature stacking metal guide system adopted by thousands of doctors and institutions across the world. The CHROME family of products provides clinicians with enhanced diagnostics, high-level treatment planning, multi-discipline communication, masterful surgical and restorative protocols, and immediate-load delivery of cutting-edge prosthetics. Fully Guided All-on-X Surgery Guided surgery provides consistent accuracy for implant placement as it controls sensitive variables, such as implant trajectory, depth, and rotational timing. Precision is crucial, and removing variables during treatment that can give…

15. Page 30

    Zirconia Restoration Provides Solutions for Virtually Any Indication NEWPORT BEACH, Calif.- BruxZir Zirconia from Glidewell provides solutions for virtually any indication. Choose BruxZir Full-Strength for functionally demanding cases, or choose BruxZir Esthetic for situations that require a premier appearance. New for 2021, all BruxZir restorations made at Glidewell are now warranted for life. Should a dentist need to replace the BruxZir restoration for any reason over the patient's lifetime, Glidewell will remake the BruxZir restoration at no cost to the dentist. For more information, call Glidewell at (800) 471-9757 or visit glidewell.com. FREEinfo, Endodontic Solution Offers Numerous Components CHARLOTTE, NC-…

16. Page 32

    Heat Dispenser Enhances Composites Prior to Placement DANBURY, Conn.–AdDent's Compex HD Heated Dispenser takes heating to the next level. Research has shown that all composites can be enhanced by heating prior to placement, exhibiting (1) greater depth of cure, (2) color stability, (3) increased physical properties, (4) perfect flow control, (5) less shrinkage, and (6) less microleakage, as well as other features. The Compex HD is a light, handheld, rechargeable device that heats all brands of composites to 155°F (68°C) in 1 to 2 minutes. The composite is brought to the mouth at the optimal temperature. There is no drop…

17. Page 33

    Cleansing Spray Quickly Eliminates Bacteria NAPLES, Fla.-Smilesaver by Soluria, with natural flavors and no artificial ingredients, is a salt and effective cleansing and freshening spray for all oral appliances that eliminates the bacteria that accumulates during use and storage. It contains no sugar, alcohol, or peroxides and is ideal for orthodontic aligners, retainers, dentures, and night guards. Shown to reduce bacteria by up to 99.9% in just 60 seconds in laboratory studies, Smilesaver reduces hidden bacteria and delivers a fresh, minty taste. Keeping these appliances clean and fresh plays an important role in increasing appliance compliance and maintaining good oral…

18. Page 34

    Occlusal Appliance Offers Solution to Poor-Fitting Splints TONAWANDA, NY—The Rhea occlusal appliance from Great Lakes Dental Technologies is the solution to poor fitting, uncomfortable splints. It is fabricated with unique heat softening material and uses an innovative manufacturing process to provide exceptional fit, retention, and patient comfort. The appliances are custom-formed to original models, and, as a result, chairside seating is only necessary to fine-tune fit and adjust for minor variations. Rhea is available as a wearguard, flat occlusal plane or full contact splint with anterior guidance. For more information, call Great Lakes Dental Technologies toll free at (800) 828-7626…

19. Page 35

    INNOVATIONS 35 Aesthetic Composite Eliminates Procedural Steps INDIAN LAND, SC - After the successful launch of VisColor bulk, VOCO now offers its second thermoviscous composite: VisColor. This universal aesthetic composite brings the same innovative 2-in-1 technology with more shade options and indications while keeping it as simple as warm it, flow it, and sculpt it. Once warmed, VisColor delivers the viscosity of a flowable, then rapidly cools to body temperature once placed, which allows for the immediate sculptability of a packable. A controlled, softer consistency enables superior sculptability for the clinician to showcase his or her artistic abilities, re-creating nature…

20. Page 37

    DENTISTRY TODAY 26th ANNUAL FALL PRODUCT SHOWCASE Dentistry Today's 2021 Fall Product Showcase highlights the latest products being offered to dental professionals. The products appear in no particular order. Shofu Dental DIGITAL CAMERA The EyeSpecial is a digital camera made exclusively for dentistry. The unique and innovative camera allows anyone on the dental staff to take a perfect picture every time—no photography skills are needed. Take stress-free, high-quality images by merely pressing one of the 9 preset dental shooting modes. For more information, call (800) 827-4638, visit shofu.com, or schedule a demo at https://www.shofu.com/en/request-demo-eyespecial/. FREEinfo, Ritter Dental USA DENTAL CHAIR…

21. Page 38

    Parkell DESENSITIZER Predicta Bioactive Desensitizer treats dentin hypersensitivity by using elements naturally found in the tooth calcium and phosphate and restoring them to the tooth in the form of hydroxyapatite plugs that continue to form and cause occlusion of dentinal tubules. It treats sensitivity due to exposed dentin, bleaching procedures, scaling, or root planing and gingival recession. For more information, call toll-free at (800) 243-7446 or visit parkell.com. FREEinfo, AdDent SHADE-MATCHING LIGHT The Rite-Lite PRO Shade Matching Light standardizes various lighting environments chairside. This aids in a more accurate matching of teeth and all types of dental restorations, regardless of…

22. Page 40

    Porter Instrument BREATHING CIRCUIT/NASAL HOOD The SILHOUETTE single-use, 3-ft breathing circuit and nasal hood comes in 4 sizes, resulting in the perfect fit for all patients. It can be retrofitted to any nitrous oxide flowmeter. For more information, call (888) 723-4001, visit porterinstrument.com/ dental, or email porterinstrument@parker.com. FREEinfo, Noble Metal Refining DENTAL METAL RECYCLING SERVICE Noble Metal Refining provides peace of mind that goes above and beyond when it comes to properly recycling dental metals. Noble is a fully licensed industrial refiner of gold, silver, palladium, and platinum, servicing many industries nationwide. Noble provides dental professionals and dental organizations with…

23. Page 42

    BrandMax ULTRASONIC CLEANING SYSTEM Tri-Clean Ultrasonic Cleaners deliver the next generation of cleaning power. All BrandMax ultrasonic units include free heat and a stainless steel basket at no additional cost. The all-stainless steel construction and best-in-class product support are second to none in the industry. For more information, call (844) 874-2532 or visit brandmax.us. FREEinfo, Ortek Therapeutics CARIES DETECTION DEVICE The Ortek-ECD caries detection device instantly detects and cavitated lesions that often go undiagnosed by x-ray and visual methods. The patented device is extremely affordable and measures the electrical conductance of enamel. It demonstrated 100% sensitivity and 93% specificity in…

24. Page 44

    Engineering ENDODONTIC BURS The TruGrit Trough Refiner is the perfect companion to the Munce Discovery Burs. Designed by an endodontist for endodontists and endodontic dentists after exploring complex canal systems with Munce Discovery Burs to locate often-hidden canals, the TruGrit Trough Refiner adds an additional element of finesse to your fine work by doing precisely what its name implies—it refines the trough. For more information, call (888) 256-0999 or visit cjmengineering.com. FREEinfo, ILumi Sciences FIBER POST Super Fiber Post provides ultimate light transmission and radiopacity. It delivers photocuring light to the apex and guarantees complete polymerization. Radiopacity at 5x ensures…

25. Page 45

    CHAIRSIDE WITH DR. K THE SECRET TO MORE EFFECTIVE WHITENING No two patients are exactly the same. So why use just one whitening protocol to treat them all? At KoR Whitening, we recognize that each patient presents a different whitening challenge and that's why we developed a full line of whitening systems to meet your patient's individual need. And KoR Whitening is the first whitening system in the world to maintain potency of its entire line of whitening gels by constant refrigeration from the instant of manufacture until being received cold-packed at your office. Dr. Rod Kurthy #1 Proper Product…

26. Page 46

    Dental HANDPIECE The Ti-Max Z95L with switch functionality is NSK's newest 1.5 increasing electric handpiece. Instantly switches between a water spray or a water jet with the world's first 2-way spray technology. When extra safety is needed, just the water jet provides maximum protection while offering optimal cooling. Infection protection comes standard. The DuoDhesive system offers a clean head system that prevents cross contamination of the airlines. For more information, call (888) 675-1675 or visit nskdental.us. FREEinfo, GC America RESIN CEMENT G-CEM ONE is a new self-adhesive resin cement that simplifies all cementation procedures. It brings together high bond strength,…

27. Page 48

    Septodont ROOT CANAL FILLING MATERIAL Hailed as a breakthrough in mineral-based root canal filling materials for permanent canal obturation, BioRoot RCS (root canal sealer) incorporates an easy-to-use cold obturation technique that ensures a long-lasting, leak-free seal, and high pH (> 11). And because it is biocompatible and resin-free, it will not have any impact on human cells in cases of over-obturation. For more information, call (800) 872-8305 or visit septodontusa.com. FREE!info, Millennium Dental Technologies LASER The PerioLase MVP-7 has the first and only scientifically proven FDA clearance for True Bone Regeneration with the LANAP Protocol, which reverses moderate and severe…

28. Page 50

    Preat Corporation ATTACHMENT SYSTEM The O'Ring attachment system is one of the most resilient restorative options available. This attachment system is classified as a Class III in that it allows movement in any plane (vertical, hinge, and rotational movements). This type of omnidirectional, resilient function protects abutments, specifically implants in weaker (maxilla) quality of bone or postcoatings on weaker teeth. For more information, call (800) 232-7732 or visit the website located at preat.com/attachment_systems/o-ring-attachment-system. FREEinfo, KAT Implants IMPLANT SYSTEM The KAT Implants system is built around a single external locking taper platform that allows the same abutments to be used on…

29. Page 52

    Carestream Dental CS 9600 The CS 9600 is Carestream Dental's all-new intelligent CBCT system that combines 2D imaging, CBCT scanning, 3D mode/impression scanning, and 3D facial scanning, along with optional cephalometric images. A SmartPulse guides users through exams while a live positioning assistant utilizes cameras to help properly position the patient for first-time-right imaging and reproducible results. For more information, call (800) 944-6365. FREEinfo, Fairfax Dental DENTAL PIN The Stabilok Pin is designed to achieve 2 criteria: self-shearing with maximal reliability and insertion with maximal ease. The wide-pitch thread provides excellent retention for the pins, which are available in either…

30. Page 54

    Patterson Dental PRACTICE MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE From patient scheduling and insurance claim tracking to paperless charting and digital image manipulation, Eaglesoft is the solution for the entire practice. Thousands of dental practices trust Eaglesoft as their on-premises, server-based practice management solution. It offers seamless integration between practice management and clinical functionality, a single integrated software for practice management and digital imaging, and industry-leading support and service. For more information, call (800) 294-8504. FREEinfo, Henry Schein One PRACTICE MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE Dentrix Ascend moves practice management to the cloud, allowing dentists to access practice data at any time, from any location, on any…

31. Page 55

    Directa USA TRANSPARENT SCREEN CareShield by Orsing is an easy-to-use transparent screen with an integrated HVE suction function that removes droplets and aerosols that harbor potentially dangerous pathogens. During dental procedures, general practitioners, hygienists, dental assistants, and patients are exposed to aerosols and organic fluids, such as blood and saliva. These fluids can spread and contaminate personal protective equipment as well as surfaces around the clinic. For more information, call (203) 491-2273. FREEinfo, Brasseler USA NITI FILE The XP-3D addressed the shortcomings of traditional NITI instrumentation and ushers in a new biologic standard of care in endodontic debridement. Featuring Brasseler's…

32. Page 56

    Convergent Dental LASER Solea provides breakthrough technology that delivers a completely different experience than any laser has before. It is the first all-tissue laser that can cut hard tissue—including all classes of cavity preps—quickly, smoothly, and reliably while doing it anesthesia-free. It can trim transitioning easily to cutting soft tissue without bleeding, sutures, or discoloration. The result is true, single-day dentistry that enables dramatic efficiency gains, better clinical outcomes, and a pain-free experience for your patients that is truly transformational. For more information, call (844) GO-SOLEA (467-6532) or visit convergentdental.com. FREEinfo, Great Lakes Dental Technologies LABORATORY FABRICATOR The MiniSTAR S…

33. Page 58

    Industry News Dental Herb Company Celebrates 25 Years of Success Dental Herb Company celebrates 25 years of helping people improve their oral health with a truly natural therapeutic approach. The company strives to provide highly effective oral health solutions that are free of artificial chemicals. Formulated with essential oils and herbal extracts, these products are a natural choice for dental professionals and patients who are serious about their oral home care. In 1996, founder Dr. Bernard Sechter, DDS, was determined to formulate a natural solution to treat periodontal issues. The result was both & Gums Tonic, an all-natural oral rinse…

34. Page 60

    Imagen Dental Partners Expands Into California With Two Practices Imagen Dental Partners, one of the fastest-growing DPOs in the country, has expanded into its eighth state, California, welcoming Scripps Rock Dental and Schaffer Dental Excellence. In addition, California practices will benefit from the expert mastery of advanced clinical skills. Imagen is at the forefront of true partnership, born from the desire to support doctors performing dentistry at the highest standards. Many DSOs and DPOs focus on short-term profitability intending to sell the practice group in a quick flip. Imagen DPO has a long-term ownership structure with no institutional capital, offering…

35. Page 62

    Sixty Years of Evolution in Dentistry Dr. Paul Feuerstein, editor-in-chief of Dentistry Today, asked Drs. Gordon and Rella Christensen to share their views of the changes in our profession over the past 60 years. What are the characteristics of dentistry going to be in 2022? What are the most profound paradigm changes over that time? What are predictions for changes in the future? DENTISTRY IN 1962 In 1962, dentistry was mainly treatment oriented, but there were observable changes toward preventive concepts, including fluoride in toothpaste, 6-month exams, diet, and the necessity for adequate oral hygiene. Dentists were primarily male. The…

36. Page 64

    Sixty Years of Evolution in Dentistry continued from page 62 just beginning to be available and mostly had feldspathic ceramic fused over base metal. Dental hygiene education was a respected 4-year educational program in many universities. Often, dental hygiene students were taught in the same basic science classes with dental students. The importance of oral hygiene, stimulated by the military services and emphasized by professional hygienists, made significant inroads into the dental profession. Crown and bridge (fixed prosthodontics) procedures were accomplished frequently, usually using cast gold alloy restorations cemented with zinc phosphate cement. PFM Figure 1. Amalgams of unknown origin…

37. Page 65

    RETROSPECTIVE cational and biopsy services. In order for practitioners to use these services, most schools provide specimen bottles with directions on how to send them for identification. 5. Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology. This area has had enormous change with the advent of digital radiography. Most dentists now use digital radiography using either CMOS sensors, phosphor plates, or both. Cone-beam radiographic devices have been revolutionary in providing the ability to see anatomy in many ways never before available (Figure 3). Very few dentists still use analog radiology, but in our opinion, it still has some advantages in the detection of initial…

38. Page 66

    RETROSPECTIVE 9. Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics. Professional orthodontic treatment, which previously was accomplished for only a few severe cases, is now amost a routine procedure for most families as their children go through their teenage years. A significant change in orthodontics has been using aligners for tooth movement, ie, Invisalign (Align Technology) and ClearCorrect (Straumann Group), which are appropriate for most minimal and some difficult cases. This base revolution in treatment planning and implementation. Note that, in recent years, considerable controversy has arisen because some labs and independent companies have promoted the use of aligners without professional orthodontic supervision. We…

39. Page 67

    Air Rotors A majority of American and Canadian dentists use air rotor handpieces, which were introduced in the early 1960s. This type of handpiece was another major paradigm change from belt driven handpieces. Mid west has long been the most popular brand, but Star, KaVo, Bien Air, and others are also excellent brands. Preventive Dental Procedures For years, amalgam and silicate cement dominated direct restorative materials. Later, glass ionomers and resin modified glass ionomers became available. The current generation of user-friendly conventional glass ionomers has provided excellent cariostatic effects and easier use, eg. EQUIA Forte (GC) and Ketac Universal (3M).…

40. Page 68

    Before After Figure 6. One-day-dentistry milled crowns on second premolar and first molar. month. Dentists see patients on a routine basis, and hygienists are also trained in these exams. Seeing most patients at least twice per year, more than our medical brethren, allows a better chance for early detection of oral cancer. The dental profession is the only guardian of the oral cavity. Numerous screening devices, such as VELscope VX (LED Dental) and Identafi (DentalEZ), are availsupervised very carefully to ensure the delivery of quality care. The Internet The internet has provided an enormous amount of information for dental professionals…

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