Henry Schein Announces Launch of Practice Pink Program for Cancer Research. Image credit: © Henry Schein, Inc

Henry Schein, a provider of health care products and services, has announced the launch of the Practice Pink Program for the 17th consecutive year. This philanthropic initiative is designed to raise funds for cancer research and prevention organizations, with proceeds going toward American Cancer Society, Cohen Children’s Medical Center of Northwell Health, and Stony Brook Children’s Hospital, as highlighted in a recent press release from the company. 

The Practice Pink Program, the work of Henry Schein Cares, is set to offer customers a range of curated pink products including practice supplies and apparel. The proceeds generated from the sales of these items will be directed towards advancing research aimed at finding a cure for breast cancer and other cancers. Maureen Knott, Vice President U.S. Supplier Initiatives at Henry Schein and President of the Henry Schein Cares Foundation, expressed the company's commitment to the cause in the press release.

"Through Henry Schein, we strongly believe in the potential of public-private partnerships to contribute to a healthier world, and the Henry Schein Cares Practice Pink program exemplifies this belief," Knott stated in the press release. "Through the combined dedication and generosity of our supplier partners and customers, we will persist in our commitment to advancing cancer research and prevention, all while striving together for a world where cancer is no longer a threat."

The Practice Pink Program, established over 17 years ago, has become a beacon of hope and support for those affected by cancer. By focusing on breast cancer, the initiative has not only raised awareness but has also made substantial contributions to the cause, per the press release. The funds generated through Practice Pink over the years have surpassed an impressive $1.9 million, underscoring the program's enduring impact and unwavering commitment to the fight against cancer.

Collaboration is key in this global fight against cancer. Research institutions, pharmaceutical companies, health care professionals, and advocacy groups can come together in a unified effort to pool resources, share knowledge, and accelerate progress. The interdisciplinary nature of cancer research ensures that diverse perspectives and expertise converge to confront this complex challenge comprehensively.

As part of the larger Henry Schein Cares Foundation, Practice Pink is a testament to the company's dedication to corporate social responsibility and its belief in the power of community-driven initiatives. By engaging supplier partners and customers alike, Henry Schein aims to make a significant impact on cancer research and prevention, working toward a future where the threat of cancer is diminished.

Individuals interested in contributing to this cause or learning more about the Practice Pink Program can visit the 

. Through collective efforts and ongoing support, Henry Schein and its partners are forging a path toward a world where cancer no longer looms large, emphasizing the transformative power of collaboration and compassion in the face of life-altering diseases.

Articles

Practice Pink, Henry Schein’s cancer research support initiative, will allow dental practitioners to purchase pink practice supplies, apparel, and more in support of finding a cure. 

Henry Schein Announces Launch of Practice Pink Program for Cancer Research

Dentsply Sirona’s New Pericardium Membrane Designed for Long-lasting Barrier Effect and Predictable Results | Image Credit: © Dentsply Sirona

Launched recently at Dentsply Sirona World 2023, OSSIX Agile

 is an innovative pericardium-based membrane. OSSIX Agile is powered by the GLYMATRIX® technology, scientifically proven to assure a long-lasting barrier effect and predictable results.

It is the combination of the source material and the GLYMATRIX technology that is said to bring this membrane its strengths, according to Dentsply Sirona. OSSIX Agile is made from decellularized porcine pericardium (collagen type I and III) and powered by GLYMATRIX technology to provide a strong, easy-to-handle, and biocompatible solution for guided bone regeneration (GBR) and guided bone regeneration (GTR) procedures.


The membrane is designed to deliver a lasting barrier with greater resistance to degradation. 

GLYMATRIX technology mimics the natural collagen cycle in the body, a natural biochemical. A key stage of the technology utilizes naturally occurring nontoxic sugar to cross-link collagen molecules, facilitating the longevity and the resistance to exposure that characterize OSSIX® regenerative solutions.
The membrane is designed for easy handling—it conforms well to tissue, defect, or graft; can be applied on both sides of the membrane; the tissue membrane features convenient handling compatible with a range of fixation methods, using sutures, screws, or tacks; has high tensile strength; is easy to trim; and does not stick to itself.

The new product is intended for use in the following cases:

Alveolar ridge augmentation and reconstruction

Alveolar ridge preservation consequent to tooth extractions

Over the window in sinus elevation procedures and for support of the Schneiderian membrane

Guided tissue regeneration procedures for periodontal defects

Other existing and recently launched solutions such as Primescan, Primeprint, Primemill, Axeos, and OmniTaper EV Implant—the latest addition to the company's EV implants family—were also available for hands-on experiences and demonstrations last month at DS World 2023 in Las Vegas.

OSSIX Agile offers longevity and biocompatibility, resulting in low host reactions and a long-lasting barrier effect.

Dentsply Sirona’s New Pericardium Membrane Designed for Long-lasting Barrier Effect and Predictable Results

NSK America Launches Ti-Max Z2 Series of Air Turbine Handpieces. Image credit: © NSK America

Dental equipment manufacturer NSK America has revealed the latest addition to its repertoire —the Ti-Max Z2 Series of Air Turbine dental handpieces. Setting new benchmarks in dental precision and efficiency, the Z2 Series, featuring the powerhouse Z990L aims to reshape the landscape of dental procedures, according to a press release from the company.

The Z2 Series builds on the distinguished Z Series to offer both cutting power and performance. Central to this achievement is NSK's proprietary "DYNAMIC POWER SYSTEM" rotor technology, ensuring a seamless and consistent power delivery, even at high speeds. The incorporation of air turbine technology further reduces vibration and noise which is said to enhance the overall dental experience for both practitioner and patient.

Key features of the Ti-Max Z2 Series include:

44W Power (Z990L): The Z990L boasts 44 Watts of power, thanks to the revolutionary "DYNAMIC POWER SYSTEM," ensuring efficient zirconia removal while prioritizing patient comfort.

Enhanced Chuck Mechanism: The "DURAPOWER CHUCK" guarantees a sustained grip which enables it to reduce bur slipping.

Quick Stop Function: The handpieces feature a quick stop function, halting high-speed rotation in 1 second to enhance safety and efficiency during surgeries.

Improved Cleanability: A water circuit on the turbine head side simplifies cleaning, ensuring optimal performance and hygiene.

User-Replaceable Turbine: Hassle-free turbine replacement ensures minimal interruptions during treatment.

Easy-Access Head Angle: With a 100° angled head, the handpieces provide efficient access to molars, simplifying complex procedures.

DURAGRIP Coating: The non-slip, scratch-resistant surface treatment enhances control and comfort during use.

Lightweight Titanium Body: The high-strength, lightweight design enhances usability for practitioners.

Built-In Water Filter: Prevents water clogging, ensuring a seamless workflow.

Colan Rogers, President/GM, NSK America, said in the press release, "With the launch of the Ti-Max Z2 Series, NSK Dental once again demonstrates its commitment to pushing the boundaries of dental technology. We believe this handpiece will revolutionize dental care by providing dentists with unparalleled power and precision, ultimately enhancing case outcomes and patient satisfaction."

These new air turbine handpieces have a variety of features that aim to offer boosted efficiency and precision. 

NSK America Launches Ti-Max Z2 Series of Air Turbine Handpieces

Yapi Leap Dental Software Now Available | Image Credit: © Yapi 

Dental software solutions company Yapi this week announced the release of "Yapi Leap," an advanced web application designed to set a new benchmark for dental practice administration and patient communication. This product release was part of a strategic capital growth investment in collaboration with M33Growth, a distinguished Boston-based venture and growth-stage investment firm.

The Yapi team designed Leap and its capabilities to focus on improving the experience for dental patients of existing and future clients along with providing better means to optimize efficiency and revenue for those practices. With a completely redesigned user interface/user experience, Leap is described as a better and more intuitive product. The web application’s new features and capabilities are said to address clients' current and future requirements, and its rapid onboarding process provides an accelerated time to value for users.

“Working in conjunction with our broad client base and listening to their growing needs as they evolved as a practice set the foundation for what we knew we needed to deliver in Yapi Leap," Rachel Handschke, senior vice president of technology at Yapi, says in a press release. "I'm excited that Yapi Leap delivered on these vital needs and set the foundation for new capabilities to propel our clients towards even greater success."

: Patients can sign on any device with a browser. Features include drag-and-drop document creation, multi-language support, and zero-click data import.

: A redesigned interface promotes clear, organized communication between practices and patients, showcasing which staff member is conversing.

: Forms can be texted or emailed to patients before their appointment for quicker in-office processing.

: Advanced filters are designed to allow for precise bulk messaging straight from your schedule.

: Comprehensive patient profiles with a holistic communication history ensure optimal patient care.

: Allows practices to offer patients online booking with foolproof features, automatically adding new appointments to the schedule.

: Customized alerts ensure you're always informed and updated.

"Yapi Leap represents not just our commitment to technological excellence but also mirrors our broader vision for Yapi's future," DJ Chhabra, President and CEO of Yapi, adds in the press release. "This groundbreaking platform is a testament to our continuous aspiration to lead, innovate, and elevate the dental software space. We are more aligned and focused than ever, and Yapi Leap is just the beginning of our renewed promise to our users and the industry."

M33Growth is a venture and growth-stage investment firm that partners with founders and CEOs positioned to rapidly scale their companies and break through as market leaders.

Featuring a completely redesigned user interface/user experience, new web application is described as a better and more intuitive product.

Yapi Leap Dental Software Now Available

CAO Group Initiates Program to Attract Patients to Dental Practices at No Cost | Image Credit: © CAO Group 

CAO Group Inc. (CAO) is making waves in the dental industry with the launch of an innovative teeth whitening program aimed at bringing patients to dental practices without any financial burden on the practice itself.

CAO Group Inc. is embarking on a new campaign targeting consumers across the United States, featuring SheerWhite!®—a well-established and groundbreaking teeth whitening strip. Consumers now have the opportunity to request a free SheerWhite! Take-Home Kit via 

 Once the request is made, CAO will promptly deliver the SheerWhite! kit to the dental practice chosen by the consumer. Subsequently, the consumer will be notified to collect their complimentary SheerWhite! kit directly from the dental office. This presents the practice with a unique opportunity to schedule the patient's next appointment or offer a consultation during their visit to pick up the free SheerWhite! kit.

Sheer White! is a peroxide-based whitening strip boasting a distinctive gelatinous viscoelastic composition on a flexible and moldable substrate. Its patented technology empowers patients to "whiten anytime, anywhere"™. SheerWhite! products have achieved great success as the top-selling whitening products within professional dental distribution channels and are readily available to dental practices through all major dental distributors in the U.S., according to the manufacturer.

"Teeth whitening is one of the most desired cosmetic procedures by patients and the dental practice is the most trusted place for whitening," says Densen Cao, PhD, CEO and founder of CAO Group, Inc., commenting on the program in a press release. "Our program brings patients to dental practices, offers professional and effective whitening care to patients through dental professionals, and also helps facilitate the relationship between patients and dental professionals."

Dentists and dental practices are strongly encouraged to register on SheerWhiteSmile.com and become a SheerWhite! Practice. This registration provides enhanced visibility to patients actively seeking providers offering SheerWhite! services within their practice. CAO will also offer comprehensive support to Sheer White! Practices, including exclusive pricing, digital assets, images, and other promotional materials to aid in marketing efforts.

For in-depth information about the program, please visit SheerWhiteSmile.com or call 877-877-9778.

Headquartered in West Jordan, Utah, CAO is a pioneering innovator and manufacturer of dental, medical, forensic, and LED lighting products. CAO Group has introduced numerous groundbreaking technologies that have significantly impacted various industries. Some noteworthy innovations include the development of LED curing lights, modern diode lasers, LED forensic lights, LED light sources for general illumination, advanced teeth whitening solutions, laser curing lights, new caries prevention methodologies, digital vision devices, and many others.

ClearVue™ LED Bulb was named one of the 

Top 10 New Dental Instruments and Supplies in the Top 100 issue of 

Light fixtures attached to dental chairs use halogen bulbs, which are not energy efficient and have relatively short lifetimes when used every day. LED lights consume less energy and have a longer lifetime. ClearVue is said to eliminate the hassle of changing the dental chair’s entire light fixture, as the LED bulb plugs into existing sockets.

New campaign targeting consumers across the United States features free SheerWhite! teeth whitening kits provided by the practices.

CAO Group Initiates Program to Attract Patients to Dental Practices at No Cost

Robert Elsenpeter is a freelance writer and frequent contributor to Dental Products Report and Dental Lab Products. He is also the author of 18 technology books, including the award-winning Green IT: Reduce Your Information System's Environmental Impact While Adding to the Bottom Line. As such, he’s particularly interested in the technological side of dentistry.

Dental Labs by the Decade | Image Credit: Samuel Perales - stock.adobe.com

If one really wanted to be pedantic, it could be argued that the first dental laboratories existed in Mexico, circa 2500 

. That is when the oldest set of false teeth (made from wolf molars) was dated. Although the toothless patient probably was elated to be able to chew again, thanks to a contemporary’s ingenuity, dental labs as we know them today trace their roots to the late 19th century.

Labs have always been on the forefront of technique and technology, all for the patient’s benefit. In the nearly 150 years since then, labs have continued to evolve and innovate—and there seems to be no slowing down.

“The early 20th century is when dental labs emerged,” observes Marybeth Starr, head of brand promise for Harvest Dental Products, based in Brea, California. “They were workshops where skilled artisans crafted dental prosthetics by hand, changing dentistry forever.”

According to the National Board for Certification in Dental Laboratory Technology, in the late 19th century dentistry was evolving and improving. But not every dentist was adept at every skill. Some were better at certain skills than others, creating unexpected opportunities. For instance, some were particularly skilled in fabricating prosthetic equipment. Those dentists found another revenue stream by selling the fruits of their labor to other dentists. And that is where the dental lab that we know today began.

Boston, Massachusetts, dentist William H. Stowe was particularly talented in creating prostheses. In fact, he was so talented in laboratory work that he no longer had time for treating patients. In 1883, he started focusing solely on the laboratory side of his practice, catering to a select few dentists.

But by 1887, business was so good that Dr Stowe opened a dedicated dental lab, which was later joined by his cousin, Frank F. Eddy (the lab was later known as Stowe and Eddy) and is widely regarded as the first commercial dental lab in America.

There have been many milestones in the past 150 years, but which decade has seen the greatest evolution? In the past 20 years we have seen remarkable advances, most of which convince industry leaders that was a key era in dental lab history.

“I’m going out on a limb here and not saying the 2000s; it was really the 1960s that brought about the biggest change in the dental lab industry with the introduction of CAD/CAM technology,” Starr says. “It literally revolutionized prosthetic design and production for many industries, including dentistry.”

Although dental labs have been around since the late 19th century, perhaps the biggest change has occurred in the past couple of decades—in terms of materials and equipment and the business of dental labs. “Probably there wasn’t a whole lot going on in the ’90s,” adds Conrad Rensburg, CEO and president of Absolute Dental Services, headquartered in North Carolina. “It was a lot more of the same. We had better ceramics, but the techniques still required using a lot of highly talented hands to fabricate the prosthetics. I think where things really started changing was after 2010, when we started seeing 3Shape come out, digital design came out, but I don’t think it was really until zirconia became a feasible restorative solution that things really changed in our industry.”

Analog tools are the bedrock of lab work, and it is no secret that although they are still used, the tools have become even more high tech. It is not just the gee-whiz factor of technology that makes things like CAD/CAM appealing. That technology makes the fabrication process more efficient, less expensive, and more consistent.

“Considering the evolution of analog tools over the past 30 years in the industry, I believe technology like induction-heated tools made a big impact and helped dental labs move away from the Bunsen burner,” Rensburg says. “That was one of the biggest shifts in analog tools in my time, in the early 2000s. That’s when you saw a lot of analog tool changes or improvements.”

The human touch is, of course, a valuable and essential part of lab work. However, the ability to automate and streamline processes showed CAD/CAM to be a seismic shift in lab work, having ushered in an era of faster, consistent, and more replicable work.

“Dental lab tools have evolved from traditional hand tools to high-tech CAD/CAM systems, digital scanners, and 3D printers, enabling precision and efficiency in prosthetic fabrication,” Starr says. “We still love analog and handcrafted restorations and [although] the hand tools aren’t as popular, there is still a demand for them, and they have evolved as well.”

From wolf molars to metal to zirconia, materials continue to evolve and advance. Although the current attention to materials tends to focus on CAD/CAM, Rensburg notes that earlier generations of materials and processes led to more esthetic results.

“The ’60s, ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s were all owned by layering ceramics, feldspathic materials, those kind of PFM [porcelain fused to metal] materials,” Rensburg adds. “In 2005, we started seeing zirconia, but it wasn’t really a contender probably until about 2015. And I think between 2010 and 2015, zirconia completely eradicated layering ceramics. So, surprisingly, there hasn’t been a whole lot of different materials. You had PFMs—which really ruled the world for 30 or 40 years—and now the next generation, or the current generation of materials, multilayer zirconia has eradicated layering. And the reason for this is it has a digital workflow. Layering ceramics does not have a digital workflow. You bring in a lot of analog processes and analog mistakes and human interpretation of the data, where as zirconia has eradicated that need for the ceramics to decide how far to build something.”

Materials continue to evolve. Milling and CAD/CAM are reductive processes, meaning a block or puck of material is placed into a mill and then pieces are carved away until the final prosthetic is produced. This is a wasteful, inefficient process, and Rensburg expects 3D printing to be the next phase of lab materials.

“The next revolution or evolution will be printable materials, printable polymers,” he says. “There’s a lot of new materials, like a new graphene that they launched at IDS [International Dental Show] in the spring. That was a big material. A lot of these things are still millable. It’s reductive technologies instead of additive. I’ll stick my neck out and say, within the next 5 years, you’ll start seeing the eradication of reductive technology. It’s going to be the next thing. Milling is slow and it’s dirty and expensive.”

But advances are not just in dental labs’ rearview mirrors. Technology continues to march forward. The latest advancement is artificial intelligence (AI). For example, dental AI company Overjet (

)—already used by many of the largest dental service organizations in the nation—saw growing demand from dental labs. In the laboratory setting, AI has transformed how dentistry operates by making restoration production more accurate and predictable, and Overjet has emerged as a powerful tool for dentists.

AI, like CAD/CAM, is an end-to-end solution, starting at the dental clinic before progressing to the lab, and it also provides the ability for streamlined in-office visits. Last year, Overjet launched a partnership with Glidewell to improve dental diagnoses for patients by enabling easier access to AI-powered x-ray analysis and clinical insights. Glidewell’s customers, such as dental practices, can tap Overjet’s AI technology to help dentists identify areas of concern, such as cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues. In addition, Glidewell uses Overjet’s AI to identify restorative treatment needs, enhance the patient experience, and strengthen the patient-clinician relationship.

In-Office Solution, which offers dentists everything they need to scan, design, mill, and deliver same-day restorations. The

In-Office Solution uses AI technology to create single-visit restorations made from BruxZir NOW fully sintered zirconia and other industry-leading materials. This AI-driven chairside CAD/CAM system gives clinicians full control over the restorative process and makes it simple to provide patients with high-quality, convenient treatment options while increasing practice profitability.
Ultimately, AI improves outcomes for better patient experiences. “Having a consistent and accurate clinical diagnosis is foundational to good patient care,” says Teresa Dolan, DDS, MPH, the chief dental officer at Overjet. “Crowns, bridges, and implant dentistry are more likely to be successful when the dentist accurately diagnoses the patient’s oral health status and develops a comprehensive treatment plan. Artificial intelligence can help guide that assessment and decision-making by providing quantified data. It replaces subjectivity with objectivity.”

In the lab, AI streamlines their fabrication process, making fabrication faster and more efficient. “I think we’ve already seen it with a single-crown design,” Rensburg says. “It’s made a huge difference for us. We use a lot of AI for single crowns. I think it’s going to get better with time. I do believe that AI will eradicate human digital design at some point. Not all of it, but I think at least 80% of it. So, the same as zirconia eradicated ceramics, I think AI will ease digital designers’ responsibilities.”

But, for all the talk about AI, there remains the need for a human’s eye and touch. As such, do not expect the computer to do everything—at least, not yet.

“I believe people are still needed,” Rensburg says. “Our artistry is now the final contour, the line angles, the labial anatomy; those little details are the fine-tuning that I don’t see computers replacing the human touch for probably the next 20 years. That’s very hard to tell, but I don’t see it, hopefully, in my lifetime. It’s changing so fast, but I think for the next 10 years at least, AI will make technicians’ lives easier. It’ll make us more efficient. It will reduce the amount of hand processes needed to do things, but I don’t think AI and technology will be able to replace artistry, not in the next 10 years. I think after that, it’s a free-for-all, but [for the] next 10 years, artistry is still alive.”

But for all the talk about the nuts and bolts of dental labs, it is important not to lose sight of the fact that labs are businesses, and the business of dental labs has changed in the past 150 years as well. “I think it actually became scalable,” Rensburg says. “Starting in 2010 onward—between 2010 and today—it’s become more of a business than an art form. I think before CAD design, before millable zirconia, highly esthetic zirconia, polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), those kinds of things, everything was still pure artistry. It was very expensive. It was almost reserved [for] special technicians and the real artists [who] used ceramics as a canvas. I think after that, the playing field was leveled a little bit more, but I think the labs that still try to bring that artistry into the technology came out better on the back end. It’s more predictable, more consistent products. And I think although the artistry is not from start to finish anymore, the artistry is now applied on the back end. Before you send the case out, that’s when the artistry comes in.”

Dental lab workflows have certainly evolved, especially in the past 30 years. “When I started [in] this industry, I had to do the substructure,” Rensburg remembers. “I had to do the layering, then I had to do the contouring, and then I had to do the glazing. And that’s all done by computer now. And now the ceramacist or the contourer applies the final artistry before it gets glazed and stained and before it gets sent out. So, it’s become more of a scalable business. I think it’s more predictable and I think a little bit more of a business than the starving artist we used to be in the ’90s and 2000s.”

The dental lab industry saw a consistent, steady growth into the early 2000s. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 7863 laboratories and 49,597 employees that peaked in 2004. Unfortunately, since then, laboratories and employees have declined. By 2015, there were 6584 laboratories, a 16% drop from the peak in 2004. Further, the number of employees dropped by 10%. Factors contributing to that decline include globalization of the economy along with offshore laboratories, taking up to 40% of the work away from domestic labs.

Labs went from small studios (many of which still exist, of course) into larger endeavors. “In the beginning, it was small artisan studios. Dental labs have transformed into modern enterprises both large and small with a focus on customer experience, efficient workflows, and online visibility through platforms and social media, elevating the industry’s overall presence and professionalism,” Starr says.

In the grand scheme of things, dental labs are a fairly new industry. For example, Peugeot, founded in 1810, is the world’s oldest automaker. Even AT&T predates the first dental lab (only by about 10 years). Still, since its humble beginnings as a service provided to a select few Boston dentists by Dr W.H. Stowe, dental labs have experienced amazing ups and downs in terms of the equipment and materials they use, but also business. Progressing further into the 21st century, dental labs can expect even more growth, evolution, and opportunity.

What’s changed, from the workspace to the tools and everything else inside today’s dental laboratories.

Dental Labs by the Decade

Tops Unveils DPX Orthodontic Communication Platform. Image credit: © Tops

Orthodontic practice management software Tops has ushered in a new era of streamlined and personalized patient care with the launch of patient engagement platform Tops DPX. This digital platform marks a significant milestone in orthodontic communication solutions, offering a unified, cost-effective solution for orthodontic practices, according to a press release from the company.

Tops DPX is said to integrate a suite of essential communication services into a single platform. Orthodontic practices can now leverage immediate HIPAA-compliant 2-way texting, automatic customized appointment reminders, the gathering and sharing of patient reviews on platforms like Google and Facebook, and pre-built email templates for office newsletters. This comprehensive approach aims to enhance both staff efficiency and patient satisfaction, bringing unprecedented ease to communication within orthodontic practices, per the press release.

Ryan Moynihan, Vice President of Orthodontics for PracticeTek, highlighted the strategic importance of Tops DPX in the orthodontic landscape in the press release. Moynihan says, “For orthodontists, there are an overwhelming number of communication platforms to choose from. Our goal with Tops DPX is to consolidate what may be 3 extra platforms for texting, appointment reminders, reviews, etc., and integrate them inside one practice management system. Creating a seamless communication platform inside Tops will save offices time, reduce login issues, cut back on training and—ultimately—save practices money.”

Existing Tops customers may also benefit from this new platform, as they are said to be able to integrate Tops DPX into their workflow. This will not only consolidate services but also significantly reduces costs, streamlining administrative tasks while simultaneously enhancing patient engagement. By incorporating Tops DPX, practices can benefit from a singular, reliable platform that caters to all their communication needs.

Tops DPX stands as a testament to Tops' commitment to innovation and addressing the evolving needs of orthodontic practices. With this platform, the company aims to elevate patient engagement, simplify communication, and empower orthodontic practices to deliver the best care they can efficiently.

Orthodontic practice management software Tops has launched a brand new patient engagement platform Tops DPX. 

Tops Unveils DPX Orthodontic Communication Platform

Caitlin Parsons is a RDH of 15 years and chronic pain survivor turned Certified Yoga Therapist and Ergonomic Consultant for dental professionals. Caitlin helps dental professionals prevent, reduce and overcome workplace pain, manage stress, and optimize their health so they can thrive in and out of the office. She is passionate about helping dental professionals and teams optimize their health to provide better patient care and become better clinicians through her in-person and online programs, speaking, writing team experiences, and her podcast, The Aligned Hygienist (

Chairside Mindfulness: Reducing Stress and Enhancing Patient Relationships | Image Credit: Tooratanaubol – stock.adobe.com

As dental hygienists, our dedication to patient care is unwavering. However, the demanding nature of our profession often results in high levels of stress, pain, and burnout. These challenges can hinder our ability to provide optimal patient care. In this article, we will explore the practice of mindfulness and its potential benefits for dental professionals. Mindfulness, rooted in ancient wisdom and supported by modern science, can serve as a powerful tool for reducing stress and improving patient relationships.

Let's address the pressing issue of stress within our profession. Dental hygienists are intimately familiar with the physical and emotional toll that our work can take. Recent statistics reveal that a significant percentage of dental hygienists report experiencing pain, high-stress levels, and even burnout. Studies indicate that 91% of dental hygienists have endured, or are currently enduring, work-related pain or injuries, often referred to as musculoskeletal disorders.¹ Furthermore, a survey published in the 

found that 30% of dental hygienists have experienced burnout.² The demands of our profession, combined with long hours of patient care, can lead to an overwhelming sense of stress that impacts our overall well-being.

Stress is not merely a mental state; it is a comprehensive experience that affects our bodies, minds, and emotions. We, as dental professionals, recognize that our bodies are designed to handle stress to some extent. However, chronic stress, which occurs when stress persists over extended periods, can have severe consequences for our physical well-being. Chronic stress can increase heart rate, muscle tension, and even immune system suppression. It can result in anxiety, depression, and cognitive impairments. Chronic stress has been associated with irritability, mood swings, and a pervasive sense of dissatisfaction.³

Stress doesn't just impact our internal state; it also influences our external interactions. It can affect our mood, energy levels, responses, and verbal and nonverbal communication. Recognizing these risks alongside the detrimental effects of stress underscores the urgency of addressing stress to safeguard our physical and mental health. But how can we effectively manage the inherent stressors of our profession?

Mindfulness, an ancient practice rooted in various contemplative traditions, has gained recognition in recent years for its potential to mitigate stress and enhance overall well-being. In essence, mindfulness involves cultivating and maintaining a moment-to-moment awareness of our thoughts, feelings, bodily sensations, and external environment with a gentle and compassionate perspective. Modern scientific research has substantiated the multifaceted benefits of mindfulness, both physically and mentally.

Studies have demonstrated that mindfulness can reduce the production of stress hormones like cortisol while promoting relaxation responses. Mindfulness has been shown to induce positive psychological effects, including subjective well-being, diminished psychological symptoms, and improved behavioral regulation. It enhances emotional regulation and reduces emotional reactivity, thus increasing our capacity to navigate the ups and downs of a demanding workday. Additionally, mindfulness has been linked to heightened focus, improved cognitive function, and enhanced resilience in the face of challenges—an everyday reality in our profession.⁴

Chairside Mindfulness for Stress Reduction

The allure of mindfulness lies in its adaptability to any setting, including the dental office. Chairside mindfulness entails integrating mindfulness practices into your daily routine as a dental hygienist. These practices are straightforward yet profoundly effective in reducing stress and enhancing your overall well-being.

One accessible technique involves mindful breathing. Take a moment between patients or even during patient care to focus on your breath. Simply concentrate on each inhalation and exhalation without judgment or force. You can explore this technique further by inhaling deeply, counting to 4, briefly pausing, and then exhaling slowly to the same count. Opt for a number count that feels comfortable, avoiding additional stress. This simple exercise can immediately alleviate stress levels and help you remain present.

Another mindfulness practice that dental hygienists can incorporate chairside is the body scan. Between patients, take just 30 seconds to pause and engage in a body scan. You can do this while standing or sitting, with your eyes open or closed. To practice, find a neutral posture position. Begin a slow scan of your body from head to toe, progressively becoming aware of and relaxing each area, one at a time. This practice is also beneficial at the end of the day as you transition from work mode to life mode.

Chairside mindfulness not only benefits you as a dental hygienist but also positively impacts your patients. Patient care extends beyond technical proficiency; it encompasses building connections and trust with patients and ensuring their comfort. Mindfulness, particularly mindful communication with our patients, facilitates these essential aspects of dental care.

When hygienists are fully present and engaged during patient interactions, patients can sense it. They feel heard and understood, which helps alleviate their anxiety and fosters trust. Patients are more inclined to adhere to treatment plans and maintain regular appointments when they have a positive and calming experience in the dental chair.

Chairside mindfulness isn't solely about stress reduction; it's also a tool for elevating your professional performance. By integrating mindfulness into your daily routine, you can experience heightened focus, increased energy, and improved communication skills. Instead of dwelling on every detail and schedule change, you can be present with each patient, delivering the highest quality care.

With reduced stress levels and enhanced focus, we can provide more efficient and effective patient care. Patients will value your attentiveness and the quality of your work. Mindfulness can bolster your mental resilience when confronting challenging cases, helping reduce the risk of burnout.

Chairside mindfulness is a transformative practice with the potential to revolutionize your experience as a dental hygienist. By acknowledging the stress epidemic in our profession and understanding the profound impact of stress on our bodies, minds, and emotions, we recognize the pressing need for effective stress management strategies.

Mindfulness, substantiated by scientific research, offers a potent solution. By integrating chairside mindfulness into your daily routine, you can mitigate stress, improve patient relationships, and elevate your overall performance as a dental hygienist. This practice benefits not only you but also your patients and the dental practice as a whole.

So, as you prepare for your next patient, take a moment to breathe deeply, center yourself, and embrace the power of chairside mindfulness. Your well-being and the quality of patient care you provide will undoubtedly reap the rewards of this practice.

1. Saccucci M, Zumbo G, Mercuri P, et al. Musculoskeletal disorders related to dental hygienist profession. 

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Factors Associated with Burnout among Dental Hygienists in California

3. Mariotti A. The effects of chronic stress on health: new insights into the molecular mechanisms of brain-body communication. 

. 2015;1(3):FSO23. Published 2015 Nov 1. doi:10.4155/fso.15.21

4. Keng SL, Smoski MJ, Robins CJ. Effects of mindfulness on psychological health: a review of empirical studies. 

. 2011;31(6):1041-1056. doi:10.1016/j.cpr.2011.04.006

Dental hygienists who take steps in their daily routines can mitigate stress, improve patient relationships, and elevate their overall performance.

Chairside Mindfulness: Reducing Stress and Enhancing Patient Relationships

VITA VIONIC SOLUTIONS Portfolio Expanded with Improved Workflows, Materials | I

VITA North America has expanded its VITA VIONIC SOLUTIONS portfolio and is now offering users even more freedom of choice for workflow and dental materials. Regardless of the hardware and software systems used, the expansion offers new possibilities in esthetics and efficiency for digital dentures.

In addition to the existing available products, users can now choose from an expanded range of products in the series:

 By working with this new disc, users can mill teeth for partial and full dentures via CAD/CAM. Within the VITA VIONIC SOLUTIONS portfolio, you can now choose between prefabricated and individually created teeth. Featuring high-quality composite (inorganically filled PMMA), the new disc is said to be significantly more abrasion-resistant than comparable products. Additionally, the manufacturer is continuing to offer its selection of high-quality analog VITA premium teeth for digitally created dentures as well. The integrated shade gradient also makes the VITA VIONIC DENT DISC multiColor unique on the dental market. VITA North America says the disc was planned to become available in September 2023.

Currently available, this disc for milling the denture base via CAD/CAM offers an improved material formulated to be impact-resistant and more durable than its predecessor. In addition, the BASE DISC HI is available in 3 lively gingiva shades (a fourth shade is being developed), which appear even more natural for full and partial dentures.

VITA VIONIC® DIGITAL VIGO Denture Library: 

The company is revamping its denture tooth library, with 3Shape already involved and exocad to follow. As VITA reorganizes its dental database, in the future, users will be able to digitally design try-in dentures, denture bases and teeth, and then 3D print them or mill them. The database soon will be available for the denture modules of 3Shape and exocad. Dental laboratory technicians and clinicians can choose from a total of 7 predefined setup concepts for partial and full dentures, including crossbite and the recently added setup concepts for straight setup lingualized, straight setup buccalized and Dutch lingualized occlusion. This development means that the VITA VIONIC DIGITAL VIGO denture tooth database enables simple and time-saving digital design and manufacture using all common open CAM and 3D print systems. The denture tooth library for 3Shape became available this past summer, while VITA states it will be available soon for exocad.

VITA offers 2 options for digitally fabricated dentures featuring quality and esthetics:

For full dentures: The digital solution for high-quality demands in esthetics, quality, and function is the VITA VIONIC VIGO denture tooth

For full and partial dentures: A flexible use of milled denture teeth —without compromising esthetics and longevity—the company offers the VITA VIONIC DENT DISC multiColor

VITA, a leading provider of innovative dental products, pioneered the field of tooth shade determination with the development of the world-renowned VITA classical®A1-D4 shade guide and its proprietary VITA SYSTEM 3D-MASTER®, the first and only system of its kind that covers the complete range of natural tooth shades. From premium denture teeth and veneering materials, to digital shade measurement, furnaces, and CAD/CAM restorations, VITA helps laboratory technicians and clinicians deliver high-quality and esthetic results to patients quickly and efficiently.

VITA North America says expanded portfolio provides even more possibilities for esthetics and efficiency in digital dentures.

VITA VIONIC SOLUTIONS Portfolio Expanded with Improved Workflows, Materials 

Universal adhesives are the modern workhorse of the dental office, but with so many iterations by manufacturers the term "universal" has become muddy. Is your adhesive truly universal?

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Dental adhesives have come a long way! Featuring video, infographics and charts, This interactive eBook celebrates the origins, evolution and future of adhesives.