Stan Goff is a Managing Editor with MJH Life Sciences, which includes Dental Products Report, Dental Practice Management, Dental Lab Products, Modern Hygienist, and Dentist's Money Digest. He has covered the dental industry since 1999 and can be reached at sgoff@mjhlifesciences.com.  

5Ws* SILENT powerCAM EC | Image Credit: © Renfert USA

SILENT powerCAM EC extraction unit for CAM milling

All dental labs and practices where CAM milling machines are used.

It is best paired with heavily used CAM milling machines running more than 6 hours per day.

The extraction unit features a reliable production process through brushless EC (electronically commutated) motor technology (guaranteed run time of 5000 operating hours). There are no follow-up costs because of its bag-free dust collection with an easy-to-empty dust drawer. However, if users prefer to dispose the milling dust with the help of a waste bag, that is also an option Renfert provides (to place in the dust drawer).

The unit features a high volume flow of approximately 4000 l/min, and a low operating noise of maximum 54.3 dB (A). The automatic filter cleaning increases longevity and provides easy maintenance, and the SILENT powerCAM EC’s long-lasting motor has a guaranteed runtime of 5000 operating hours with easy motor change in a few minutes.

Articles

Renfert’s bag-free extraction unit with automatic filter cleaning and long-life, brushless EC motor technology delivers on power and efficiency.

5Ws* SILENT powerCAM EC

This week's podcast features ProMate EZ-Q from Pac-Dent, Dynamic Duo from Buffalo Dental, OP 3D LX from DEXIS, and NeoScan 2000 from Neoss Group.

Product Bites – September 29, 2023

Welcome to Product Bites, a weekly podcast from Dental Products Report, providing you with a rundown of recently launched and updated dental technologies, materials, instruments and everything else you might use with patients are long running your practice.

I'm your host for this week, DPR Editorial Director Noah Levine and on this week's podcast, we've got new products, including ProMate EZ-Q from Pac-Dent, the Dynamic Duo from Buffalo Dental Manufacturing, the ORTHOPANTOMOGRAPH OP 3D LX from DEXIS, and the NeoScan 2000 from the Neoss Group. So let's jump right into the details on these new innovations.

The ProMate EZ-Q hygiene handpiece from Pac-Dent is designed to enhance procedural efficiency and precision for dental hygienists. This advanced handpiece introduces a quick disconnect mechanism promising a seamless patient flow and simplification of sterilization procedures. Operating it up to 3000 revolutions per minute, the ProMate EZ-Q incorporates an innovative swivel head design, providing clinicians with a 360-degree range of motion for superior control. The handpiece also features a universal prophy angle connection, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of disposable prophy angle styles from a wide range of manufacturers. It's lube free motor reduces maintenance demand and contributes to the handpieces durability. It's crafted with a stainless steel exterior, so the ProMate EZ-Q is able to withstand autoclaving, which adds to its convenience and durability. c

Calling them the Dynamic Duo, Buffalo Dental Manufacturing is now bundling its V35 Electric Handpiece and the ThermoKnife to enhance dental laboratory workflows. This bundle is engineered to save time and money while optimizing bench space, particularly when detailing aligners. The handpiece offers speeds ranging from 14,000 to 35,000 rotations per minute, allowing for precise speed selection for various cutting needs. The high torque motor ensures smooth operation and robust performance reducing operator fatigue. The ThermoKnife is fast heating and the temperature control is fully adjustable for precise cutting action. A switch allows the use of two different thermal pens with ergonomic design and sharp permanent tips.

DEXIS recently introduced the ORTHOPANTOMOGRAPH OP 3D LX, it's the latest generation of its OP 3D series of cone beam imaging solutions. This advanced extraoral imaging system offers an expanded field of view of up to 15 by 20 centimeters. It seamlessly integrates with artificial intelligence-powered DTX Studio Clinic software, providing powerful tools for enhanced diagnosis and treatment planning. The improved patient positioning system and the Embedded Noise Reduction Technology ensure clean, crisp, artifact-free images. Additionally, the cloud connectivity of the OP 3D LX enables remote access, simplifying installation, maintenance and enhancing practice efficiency.

Finally, the Neoss Group recently unveiled the NeoScan 2000. Its latest version of an intraoral scanner is wireless, and it builds upon the success of its predecessor, the NeoScan 1000. The new scanner's wireless technology enhances mobility and makes it easier and more efficient to scan, even in challenging areas. The wireless connectivity works over long ranges and provides smooth data transfer. Scans can be stored in Neoss' free cloud solution for easier data management.

That's our quick look at these four new innovations for this week. As always, you can find the latest information on new dental products at 

dentalproductsreport.com/newdentalproducts

. For Product Bites and Dental Products Report, I'm Noah Levine. Thanks for listening. We'll see you next week on the next episode of Product Bites.

Podcasts

This week's Product Bites podcast features the new ProMate EZ-Q from Pac-Dent, Dynamic Duo from Buffalo Dental Manufacturing, ORTHOPANTOMOGRAPH OP 3D LX from DEXIS, and NeoScan 2000 from the Neoss Group. [4 Minutes]

Ms. Newkirk received her dental hygiene degree from the University of Alaska, Anchorage, in 1981. A recognized key opinion leader in periodontal endoscopy, Suzanne has published numerous articles and co-authored several dental textbook chapters on minimally invasive non-surgical periodontal therapy with use of the dental endoscope.

Ms. Newkirk is the national and international dental endoscopy instructor for Zest Dental Solutions and is a professional speaker. Her website is: 

Lynne Slim is an award-winning dental author who has published extensively in dental/dental hygiene journals including 

Journal of the Western Society of Periodontology

. She was the periodontal columnist for RDH magazine for about 17 years and is now a columnist for 

 and is a member of their advisory board. In 2003, Lynne founded Perio C Dent, a dental practice management company that specializes in the incorporation of non-surgical periodontal therapy into the hygiene department of the general dental practice.

As a key opinion leader in the dental industry, Lynne is frequently asked to review new products and write product reviews. She participates in product development and is consulted about consumer/RDH product awareness. Lynne received the Philips Oral Healthcare “Mentor of Distinction” award at the 2012 ADHA Annual Session.

The Scaling Assistant. Image credit: © Kawee - stock.adobe.com

Back in the late 1970s, Lynne and I can remember our first days in a clinical laboratory setting, learning how to scale teeth, mostly with manual instruments. We were both accepted into academically competitive accredited United States dental hygiene educational programs, and we were excited to be there. Dental hygiene education was a highly respected major for young women at the time and we were motivated to excel. There was so much to pack into the curriculum including general science prerequisites. Entry level programs were either associate or baccalaureate level educational programs.

We practiced on typodonts before working in the mouth because we had no idea how to hold an instrument, how to fulcrum, what a working stroke was, etc. Instrumentation guidance came from instructors and the Esther Wilkins essential book, 

Clinical Practice of the Dental Hygienist.

 Besides practicing on typodonts before working on each other, we also took detailed competency exams. Back then, manual instrumentation was the preferred scaling instrumentation method and powered instrumentation consisted of a large Cavitron box with 1 insert. The insert was mostly used for supragingival scaling due to the thickness of the tip, which was called a P-9 and not much was taught in the way of powered instrumentation. Our curriculum required us to master anterior and posterior sickle instrumentation and gracey instrumentation, which included about 9 types of instruments with each one being practiced to competency.

At the time, it seemed that all our dental hygiene student compatriots, including us, were constantly filled with apprehension and fear. Our fear consisted of not being “enough,” or being unable to find a patient for clinic, or passing an upcoming competency, etc. But the worst fear we faced was something called “preceptorship.” Although most of us had heard about it, we knew little about it other than what our instructors told us. After having completed 2 to 4 years of rigorous study, passing an 8-hour written National Board Examination and a regional or state clinical board examination, it was impossible to understand how a dental assistant in the State of Alabama could become “a dental hygienist” after spending approximately 200 hours in a classroom 1 weekend per month for 10 months, while working full-time as a dental assistant (hygienist trainee) for their sponsoring dentist. In comparison, a 2-year or 4-year CODA Accredited dental hygiene program requires at least 1000 hours of classroom instruction and 700 hours of clinical instruction.

In 1998, the Kansas legislature knocked the dental hygiene world on its heels by passing HB 2724 to address a shortage of dental hygienists in the state. The bill changed the dental practice act to authorize “a specially trained dental assistant” to polish and scale supragingivally, but specified a licensed dentist or dental hygienist was required to complete the rest of the routine cleaning.

 With the passage of the bill, Kansas became the first state to allow dental assistants to perform coronal scaling, and thus began the systematic dismantling of dental hygiene's professionalism by organized dentistry.

In 2007, the Kansas legislature requested a performance audit report from the Kansas Dental Practices Act. The objective of the audit report was to determine the impact of the 1998 practice act changes that authorized dental assistants to perform supragingival scaling. Key points from the Executive Summary of the Performance Audit Report found dental scaling assistants are subject to only minimal oversight by the Kansas Dental Board and unlike dentists and dental hygienists, they are not required to be licensed.

Although the Kansas Dental Board requires scaling assistants to submit a copy of the course completion certificate and report changes in work address, the Board has no power to enforce the requirements. In addition, the Kansas legislature asked how many dental scaling assistants are working in Kansas and if they had affected the availability of dental care in underserved areas.

The Report found that although 400 dental assistants reported completing the course since 1999, the Board had incomplete and dated information on their status because they were unable to determine if everyone submitted their certificate. The Board had no way of knowing if scaling assistants were notifying the Board when they changed jobs or left the profession altogether.

Furthermore, the Dental Board lacks a reliable method for obtaining updated information, as the database on dental scaling assistants is at best an inventory of people who completed the course and where they worked at that time. Of the 400 dental assistants who submitted information to the Board did so within 3 years after the Act was changed 22 years ago. Although 70% of dental scaling assistants initially reported working in underserved areas, it’s impossible to know whether they currently are working in those areas because there is no complete information on their current employment status.

The 2007 Performance Audit Report survey indicated only 158 scaling dental assistants were still working but spent most of their time assisting the dentist instead of scaling and polishing teeth. The survey also indicated that of the responding dentists who regularly used the 158 scaling assistants, only 60% of the dentists stated they worked in shortage areas, and 66% said although they felt they increased the number of patients seen, most described the increase as slight to moderate.

Kansas law requires dentists employing a supragingival scaling assistant who has received a certificate from an educational entity to file a report with the Dental Board within 30 days of employment, or change in employment of the names and business addresses of all dentists who are employing or supervising the non-licensed person. However, as of 2023, when asked how many scaling dental assistants were currently working, the Kansas Dental Board stated “they are a non-licensed person in Kansas, and we do not have a list nor know where they are working.”

In Part 2 of this series, we will examine perceptions from Kansas dental hygienists and scaling assistants on Kansas HB 2724. Specifically, we will address access to care and workforce issues and the “new” and very real threat from scaling assistants to the dental hygiene profession.

Minutes of the House Committee on Health and Human Services. 2001. http://www.kslegislature.org/li/s/historical/committees/minutes/01_02/house/HsHHS3-7-01.pdf

PERFORMANCE AUDIT REPORT. Kansas Dental Practices Act: Determining the Impact of the 1998 Changes to the Act https://www.kslpa.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/r-07-23.pdf

The first part in a 2 part series. The authors take a look at the history of “scaling assistants” and rules that impact what they can and can not do in dental practice.

The Scaling Assistant 

Bruce Bryen is a certified public accountant with over 45 years of experience and is a part of Baratz & Associates CPAs. He specializes in deferred compensation, such as retirement planning design; income and estate tax planning; determination of the proper organizational business structure; asset protection and structuring loan packages for presentation to financial institutions. He is experienced in providing litigation support services to dentists with Valuation and Expert Witness testimony in matrimonial and partnership dispute cases. He is also a financial writer for several dental journals. You may contact him at 609-502-0691 or at 

What Are You Really Getting When You Sell Your Practice to a DSO? | Image Credit: andrey popov - stock.adobe.com

The art of negotiating a contract and what you will earn from it should make you feel terrific based on what the lead people from the dental service organization (DSO) are telling you about your dental practice.

The promises they offer you may keep getting more and more exciting from a practical standpoint. One of the most important things while discussing what you are going to get is what has been written down and promised. This matter can become confusing because there have been so many promises made by those leading the discussions that it is hard to remember what all was said.

There are many opportunities for each type of dental practice. The importance of dental practice advisors is probably the key to making a decision that will be life-changing whether it be for the good or for the bad. The dental practice advisors’ list should begin with the dental CPA. This person should not be a CPA who has an expertise in general business accounting such as someone who has experience with businesses that have a large inventory of a product.

Consider Pros and Cons Before Executing a Dental Practice Partnership Dissolution

The main difference that will affect the dentist is that a general business with a high valuation for inventory typically does not have a good understanding of goodwill. This item is probably the most valuable with the highest value assigned in a dental practice valuation. Goodwill can account for as much as 75% to 80% of the value in a dental practice valuation. Compared to the general business model, the inventory may have 75% to 80% valuation of the business. When selling the general business compared to selling the dental practice, because of the allocation to goodwill, the dental practice transition will typically allow a capital gain tax approach while the inventory valuation will not.

That alone may be the difference in receiving or not getting a 25% tax compared to a 50% tax for the seller of the dental practice when comparing it to the sale of the general business.

The dental practice advisors. Who are they?

When advising a dental practice and the dentist, the most important advisor is almost always the dental CPA. This is a person with experience in evaluating dental practices and in assisting the dentist in acquiring the loan for the dental practice acquisition or start up. The dental CPA will have knowledge of other dental practices that he or she has advised in the past. This person knows what a lender is looking for with financial projections and can make sure that the expense ratio to projection gross revenue is within the guidelines established by national and local experts who compile averages and publish in various well-known professional dental publications. After all the work done by the dental practice advisor to assist in establishing a value for the dental practice, the dentist will surely be happy that he or she chose the dental CPA for this assignment and not the general business CPA. 

A good dental practice attorney will know that he or she should rely on the dental CPA for additional help when drafting contracts and assisting the dentist with other legal matters. There are attorneys who have assisted in helping the dentist interested in joining a DSO and knowing the laws in the states where the DSO has successfully opened their doors and gotten their employees to understand the big picture. It is important for the dentist to retain an attorney who has had experience with DSOs.That attorney as well as the dental CPA probably have contacts with the lenders as well who understand how to lend to a DSO or an individual dentist who may be joining the DSO.

The clinical side and the administrative side of the DSO

Of course, the entire concept of the DSO is the size of the practice, its clinical side as well as its administrative side and making sure the employees are expert at what they are hired to be doing. The DSO does not want a dentist to be working on the administrative side of the practice. The dentist should be at the chair doing clinical work and bringing in the money. The CPA, attorney, and other administrative people should be working on the administrative side of the practice and trying to keep the money that is being earned to remain in the practice. Other administrators will be looking to acquire additional dental practices and will have input into who shall be hired, their compensation and benefits and potentially their rights to buy into the DSO and to become shareholders. Sometimes the founders of the DSO are skilled in administrative details and may join in the nonclinical workings of it for a time in the beginning of the organization until top-notch administrators are hired.

The goal of the DSO is to have the top-producing dentists produce as much as they possibly can. As the DSO becomes stronger financially and its employee base is stable, it will then start to look at other DSOs as well as additional dental practices to increase their cash flow and to make them more attractive to others who may be interested in merging with them or acquiring them. This is the point where the dental CPAs and the attorneys with experience in working with DSOs and their lenders will have an opportunity to shine. The process can start again but with a much higher base of positive cash flow, employees in strategic positions, and without the need to hire more highly-priced personnel.

If the clinicians and administrators stick to their field of expertise and don’t interfere with the overall operation by thinking like they were still involved in a small way rather than the large DSO organization that they have become all the above writings will almost guarantee a blueprint for success, especially for those who were among the original members of the DSO.

If clinicians, administrators, and the proper dental advisors do their homework and work well together, plenty of success can follow.

What Are You Really Getting When You Sell Your Practice to a DSO?

Sonendo to Launch Second Generation CleanFlow Instrument. Image: © Sonendo

GentleWave® developer Sonendo has announced the launch of its second generation CleanFlow™ procedure instrument. This updated release comes with an upgraded design and an enhanced matrix system, marking a significant leap forward in the efficacy and user-friendliness of the GentleWave Procedure, according to a press release from the company. The redesigned matrix is designed to not only streamline the root canal treatment process but also to ensure a secure and enduring seal that is said to guarantee consistency. Altogether, it aims to simplify the experience for both clinicians and patients. The notable improvement in design enables doctors to utilize a single procedure instrument for all teeth, streamlining their workflow and enhancing overall treatment efficiency.

Dr Luis Missura of Precision Endodontics expressed his enthusiasm in the press release, stating, “The CleanFlow Procedure Instrument with the new matrix has been unparalleled in consistency and ease of use. The GentleWave Procedure gives reliable, comfortable, uncompromising disinfection that yields some of the best clinical results I’ve seen.”

Last month, Sonendo announced a pivotal update, indicating that the CleanFlow Procedure Instrument is now approved for use on anterior teeth which will replace the legacy Anterior Pre-Molar Procedure Instrument. This, coupled with the latest matrix system and optimized design, emphasizes Sonendo’s mission to create quality, refined products that boost innovation. This mission and continuous investment in improving the experiences of both clinicians and patients benefits all, according to chief commercial officer of Sonendo Michael Smith.

“Our top priority is our partner clinicians and their patients, so we are pleased to announce further enhancements and the launch of our second generation CleanFlow Procedure instrument,” Smith says in the press release. “Our goal is to help clinicians navigate the challenges of root canal therapy and provide exceptional patient care. We are confident this optimized design and enhanced matrix is the final step towards our goal of simplifying our portfolio through one procedure instrument.”

The GentleWave System, recognized as the sole United States Food and Drug Administration-cleared system for root canal procedures, utilizes a sterilized, single-use procedure instrument. This enables the cleaning and disinfection inside of root canal, leading to safer, more effective procedures, per the press release. Because of the structure of the root canal, and all of the microscopic spaces that can house bacteria inside, it is crucial to ensure effective disinfection and cleaning. With the introduction of the second-generation CleanFlow Procedure Instrument, it becomes the sole instrument needed for the GentleWave System to treat all teeth.

The GentleWave System with CleanFlow Technology aims to be a game-changer for both clinicians and patients, by enabling 1-handed procedures. With this innovative instrument, clinicians are said to be able to boost the efficacy of their root canal procedures and achieve success for their patients by minimizing post-treatment pain and facilitating efficient healing of the site, according to Sonendo. To learn more about the CleanFlow Procedure instrument or the GentleWave System, dental professionals can visit the 

This advancement from Sonendo is said to simplify root canal treatments for clinicians and improve patient experiences by ensuring a secure and lasting seal across all teeth for root canal procedures. 

Sonendo to Launch Second Generation CleanFlow Instrument

Ivoclar’s Direct Restorative Workflow Designed to Deliver Enhanced Efficiency, Great Smiles |

The Ivoclar Group, a global leader in integrated solutions for high-quality dental applications, is proud to announce its cutting-edge Direct Restorative Workflow, designed to optimize chairside time, streamline procedures, and deliver exceptional clinical results. This innovative approach is designed to empower dentists, dental technicians, and hygienists to achieve superior direct restorations while bringing confident smiles to patients' faces.

Selecting the right workflow solution is paramount for achieving enduring and esthetically pleasing direct restorations. Ivoclar's materials for direct restorative procedures are meticulously crafted to support each step of the restorative workflow, thereby enhancing efficiency and esthetics in day-to-day dental care. Covering a wide range of requirements for isolation, restoration, contouring, and superior protection against caries and erosion, the company’s advanced product portfolio is designed to elevate the efficiency of direct restorative procedures in daily practice.

Throughout the clinical treatment journey, Ivoclar offers a harmonized suite of materials to support the various stages of direct restorative dentistry, enabling procedures that are fast, improved, and strong.

 Ivoclar's product portfolio includes reliable solutions that optimize chairside time for posterior restorations, resulting in time savings of up to 51%.

 The Direct Restorative Workflow fosters seamless teamwork, with products that complement each other well, streamlining the workflow within the practice.

 Ivoclar's high-quality dental products not only offer patients outstanding quality and esthetics but are also formulated to enhance the efficiency of the dental team.

Ivoclar has crafted a compelling direct restorative workflow that seamlessly integrates esthetics, quality, and efficiency, ensuring that each step from isolation to preventive care is meticulously coordinated. Key components of this workflow include:

OptraGate®: This latex-free lip and cheek retractor provides effective and rapid relative isolation, ensuring a clear view of the treatment field and patient comfort.

Adhese® Universal: A single-component, light-cured adhesive for direct and indirect bonding procedures, delivered in the user-friendly VivaPen, which offers up to 4 times more applications per ml of content, thus enhancing the practice's economic efficiency.

Tetric® Line: Comprising 4 coordinated composite materials, the Tetric Line ensures an efficient workflow and excellent esthetic results, with time savings of up to 51% in the posterior region, according to Ivoclar. The Tetric Line includes 4-millimeter composites Tetric PowerFill and Tetric PowerFlow, known for their lifelike esthetic properties and reliable curing behavior, as well as universal composites Tetric EvoFlow and Tetric Prime.

OptraSculpt®: Designed for non-stick shaping and contouring of composite resin, these instruments ensure effortless composite contouring.

Bluephase® PowerCure: Offering intelligent light-curing with short exposure times, this curing light is equipped with patented Polyvision technology to actively support dentists during the curing process.

OptraGloss®: A universal polisher suitable for extraoral and intraoral high-gloss polishing, providing smooth and shiny restoration surfaces in just 1 step.

For effective protection of finished restorations, applying a fluoride-containing protective varnish is recommended, strengthening protection against caries and erosion, treating hypersensitive tooth necks, increasing enamel acid resistance, and preventing sensitivities.

For more details from the manufacturer about direct restorative procedures, 

The Ivoclar Group, headquartered in Schaan, Liechtenstein, is a global pioneer in integrated solutions for esthetic, high-quality dental applications. In 2023, the company proudly marks its centennial anniversary under the theme "A Century of Innovation." To read more on the Ivoclar’s 100th anniversary celebration 

The company's success is rooted in its comprehensive portfolio of products, systems, and services, robust research and development capabilities, and unwavering commitment to training and further education. Serving customers in approximately 130 countries, the group comprises 56 subsidiaries and branch offices, with a global workforce of around 3,700 professionals. Ivoclar’s US headquarters are in Amherst, New York.

Company’s workflow and portfolio of dental products said to save time, streamline procedures, and deliver confident smiles to patients.

Ivoclar’s Direct Restorative Workflow Designed to Deliver Enhanced Efficiency,  Great Smiles

Viome Life Sciences recently unveiled Oral Health Pro with CancerDetect, an innovative test designed to provide dental professionals with actionable insights into their patients' health, including early detection of biomarkers associated with oral and throat cancer.

The test has achieved an specificity of 95 percent and sensitivity of 90 percent, backed by clinical validation data recently published in the article “Detecting salivary host and microbiome RNA signature for aiding diagnosis of oral and throat cancer” which was published in the October 2023 issue of

“Viome’s holistic and scientific approach to health will transform how people approach oral hygiene and care,” Viome’s Chief Dental Officer Ed Zuckerberg, DDS, FAGD, says in a press release. “The Oral Health Pro test is ushering in a new era of preventative care that benefits patients and dental professionals. The current standard of oral care is extremely outdated, relying heavily on visual and tactile examinations. Viome is setting a new standard that uncovers the intricate interplay between microbial activities and human gene expression in the development of oral diseases and cancers.”

The Oral Health Pro with CancerDetect test uses Viome’s proprietary RNA sequencing technology and artificial intelligence to measure gene expression of the oral microbiome and human cells in a patient's saliva. This identifies early biomarkers associated with oral and throat cancer. The test has received an FDA Breakthrough Device Designation for accelerated review due to its potential transformative impact on early cancer detection.

Along with the detection of cancer-associated biomarkers, the Oral Health Pro also identifies biomarkers linked to poor gum health, cavities, bad breath, pathobiont activity, fungal activity, and genotoxic activity. Many of these biomarkers are also associated with systemic health risks.

The test requires a saliva sample which can be collected in a dental practice, but can just as easily be collected by the patient at home. The test results can then be used by dentists to guide clinical decision-making and develop personalized treatment plans.

“Viome’s unique technology can see a lot deeper than other tests since we detect the gene expression activity of a wide range of microbial as well as human cells,” says Guru Banavar PhD, Viome’s founding chief technology officer. “We further quantify the molecular pathways associated with oral health issues by applying machine learning on a very large dataset, trillions of nucleotides derived from tens of thousands of saliva samples. These analyses are translated into a simple report that helps dental professionals and patients understand their oral and systemic health risks.”

The clinical validation study of the biomarker for oral and throat cancer involved 1175 individuals and included collaboration with renowned salivary researcher Professor Chamindie Punyadeera, PhD, of Griffith University, Salomon Amar, DDS, PhD, of New York Medical College, and other experts across multiple clinical centers.

“This test represents a novel use of saliva for assays aimed at the improvement in test characteristics of oral cancer screening tools, along with being user-friendly,” says Dr Amar.

Oral Health Pro test results are available through a cloud-based, no-cost software solution with a seamless workflow that can be easily integrated into a dental practice. The test can help with monitoring oral and systemic health of patients without consuming chair time.

Viome Life Sciences is officially launching Oral Health Pro with CancerDetect™, a new test designed to help clinicians provide their patients with oral health insights and early-stage cancer detection.

Viome Makes New Oral Health and Cancer Detection Test Available for Dental Professionals

Designed to drive practice growth with new features, Eaglesoft version 22.00 practice management software is now available from Patterson Dental. Clinicians can take advantage of new features in this upgrade to improve their software performance and keep their Eaglesoft security protocols up to date and in compliance with HIPAA requirements.

By using the software solution you can cut back on manual tasks and save time by letting Eaglesoft 22 maintain and optimize your software. Additionally, this update can help increase treatment acceptance with CAESY Cloud integration. It allows you to conveniently view PDFs and send emails directly in Eaglesoft, and limit user access to Eaglesoft integrations. Featuring unrivaled support and training from Patterson Dental, the transition to Eaglesoft or upgrading to this latest version is said to be made easy. Expert technology advisors can help create a software strategy and business flow that suits unique practice needs. Another plus available is on-site training uniquely tailored to clinicians and their team for practice success. Knowledgeable, highly skilled support specialists are just one call away at the Patterson Technology Center, the company states.

With Eaglesoft version 22.00, SmartDoc has been updated to include a new built-in PDF Viewer where you can conveniently view and save PDFs directly in Eaglesoft without running into any incompatibility issues. You no longer must rely on a third-party application for viewing or saving documents. You will also have the option to Print, Email, and Export documents.

With this new update, users can now easily send emails from their Gmail, Yahoo Mail, or Outlook 365 email address directly from Eaglesoft. Currently, only these email applications have been tested and guaranteed to be supported, Patterson Dental states. The company’s Simple Mail Transfer Protocol (SMTP) helps you avoid compatibility issues by eliminating the need to use another application to send emails. The email configuration is a global setting, so 1 email address will be used to send emails from Eaglesoft for the entire practice on all computers.

Staff can educate patients and drive treatment acceptance with CAESY Cloud that is now integrated within Eaglesoft. With this integration, you can attach presentations to service codes, play CAESY Cloud videos from Chart, Treatment Plan, Informed Consent, and Fast CheckIn. [This integration does require a CAESY Cloud subscription.] Additionally, you can also have Patient Notes updated after viewing CAESY Cloud videos.

Manage Integrated Applications Security Update

Another benefit that comes with the updated software is a security update in the Utilities Zone, now available for Manage Integrated Applications. This enhanced security update is designed to allow you to limit who has access to add, remove, or change settings for integrations such as AutoSDS, CAESY Cloud, and E-mail configuration in Eaglesoft. By not upgrading to this latest version, customers miss important security updates as well as access to other new Eaglesoft features. Because of this Patterson Dental recommends all dental practices using Eaglesoft implement this update. 

Eaglesoft is designed to serve as your entire dental practice management solution, from patient scheduling and insurance claims to paperless charting and digital image manipulation. Its simple and easy-to-use interface streamlines your day-to-day operations and increases your practice’s efficiency.

Patterson Dental’s latest update to its practice management software features improved performances and security protocols.

Eaglesoft Version 22.0 Software Now Available

Midmark Corp has unveiled its latest promotion aimed at optimizing dental mechanical rooms. Until December 31, 2023, dental professionals and facilities have the opportunity to supplement their Midmark air compressor and vacuum purchases with complimentary mechanical room accessories.

In a press release from the company, Mandy Schlater, Midmark's Dental Marketing Manager, emphasizes the reliability and safety features of Midmark mechanical room solutions. "Midmark mechanical room solutions are designed for reliability and safety. With better-than-standard filtration, our air compressors deliver the ultimate in clean compressed air. And with their durable construction and reliable suction, our vacuums help safely evacuate aerosols, saliva, and other liquids during procedures. We hope dental facilities take advantage of this opportunity for free accessories to help elevate their mechanical rooms.”

Often overlooked, yet vital, the mechanical room serves as the beating heart of every dental facility. Its significance cannot be overstated. Its role in maintaining sterility, ensuring safety, enhancing efficiency, and promoting sustainability cannot be underestimated. It is the foundation upon which exceptional patient care and operational excellence are built. Recognizing the importance of the mechanical room is the first step toward elevating the standards of dental practice to new heights. Midmark aims to recognize the paramount importance of this space, through its variety of product offerings and promotions to ensure that every dental practice is equipped with what they need for optimal efficiency and streamlined operations. By offering complimentary accessories with qualifying air compressor and vacuum purchases, Midmark invites dental professionals to enhance their mechanical rooms, fortifying the backbone of their practices and, in turn, elevating the standard of care, per the press release.

Dentists can choose between a Buck Boost or Control Panel as long as this promotion is ongoing, so long as they purchase a Midmark air compressor or vacuum. Alternatively, those opting for the combined power of a vacuum and air compressor can enjoy 2 free accessories choosing between a Buck Boost or Control Panel and an NXT Hg5 Amalgam Separator or Water Filter Bypass.

The last date to invoice and take shipment of products will be January 31st, 2024. To learn more about Midmark’s variety of promotions and products, visit their 

This exclusive mechanical room promotion will enable dental practices to claim free accessories with the purchase of air compressors and vacuums from Midmark. 

New Promotion from Midmark can Bolster Mechanical Room

Biomaterials experts Dr Mohammed Hadis, Professor Josette Camilleri and Professor Will Palin, at the University of Birmingham's School of Dentistry. | Credit: © University of Birmingham

University of Birmingham Enterprise has unveiled the inauguration of the Birmingham Dental and Biomaterials Testing Service, commonly referred to as BiMaTs. This pioneering initiative aims to deliver comprehensive materials testing services and consultancy support tailored to the exacting needs of dental and biomaterial manufacturers.

BiMaTs is a collaborative endeavor led by internationally acclaimed academic luminaries, Professor Josette Camilleri and Professor Will Palin. At the heart of BiMaTs lies its consultancy arm, offering an extensive array of services encompassing the assessment of mechanical and physical properties of materials and the evaluation of biological properties at material-tissue interfaces. These services include the development of customized protocols designed to cater to the unique requirements of each client.

Distinguished for its innovative approach, BiMaTs has been established as an Operating Division, streamlining access to cutting-edge services infused with Birmingham's academic expertise for industry stakeholders.

Camilleri, a prominent figure in the fields of Endodontics and Applied Materials at the University of Birmingham, holds international acclaim as a clinical researcher and materials scientist. She is an esteemed expert affiliated with the British Standards Institution and the International Standards Organization. Professor Camilleri is renowned for her pioneering work in endodontic materials and currently serves as the Chief Specialty Editor for 

Dental Materials in Frontiers in Dental Medicine

. She is also a senior editorial board member of 

 (Nature) and has been elected Vice-president Elect of the Dental Materials Group of the International Society of Oral and Dental Research, set to assume the presidency in 2025.

Co-founder Palin, Chair in Biomedical Materials Science and Director of Research at Birmingham's School of Dentistry, is dedicated to advancing novel biomaterials, medical devices, and technologies for bone, tooth, and injury repair. He is notably recognized for his significant contributions to dental polymer materials and related medical device development, as well as photobiomodulation—a pioneering technique utilizing light to facilitate tissue healing. Palin presently serves as the Editor of the 

European Journal of Prosthodontics and Restorative Dentistry

, in addition to his role as Subject Editor for 

Biomedical Adhesion for the International Journal of Adhesion and Adhesives

BiMaTs boasts access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and an extensive inventory of cutting-edge equipment within the university. The service portfolio offered by BiMaTs includes a diverse range of tests that closely emulate the real-world applications of biomaterials in clinical scenarios. These encompass material characterization, radiometry, thermography, evaluation of endodontic sealer properties, microbiology, cell biology, and clinical assessment of instruments and materials.

"Our bespoke methods and materials development expertise had already attracted interest from top tier companies,” Camilleri states in a press release. “From discussion with existing collaborators, it was clear that there is a lack of testing centers that either offer a full suite of testing capability or that can execute and complete projects in a timely manner, so we decided to formalize our offering by setting up an Operating Division through University of Birmingham Enterprise.”

Palin adds in the press release, "We are now in a position to make our services available, so manufacturers can demonstrate the quality and efficacy of their products through rigorous and reliable testing and make informed decisions during product development. Our highly skilled scientists and technicians will work closely with clients, to ensure accuracy, precision and swift completion of testing.”

University of Birmingham Enterprise is a forward-thinking entity committed to driving innovation and fostering collaboration between academia and industry. It aims to support cutting-edge research and commercialize academic expertise, enabling impactful advancements in various domains.

New endeavor designed to elevate material quality assurance in dental and biomaterial manufacturing.