Kellie Nock is the assistant editor for Dental Products Report. She graduated from Kent State University in 2018 with a Bachelor's in Journalism. Kellie enjoys multimedia content creation with a focus on audio and video storytelling. 

A bite-sized look at dental product launches. 

Product Bites – October 8, 2024

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 or while running your practice.

I’m your host for this week, DPR Editor Kellie Nock, and on this week’s podcast we’ve got 3 new products with launches from Great Gums and BioHorizons.

So let’s get to it and learn about these newly launched dental products.

First up, Great Gums One. This toothbrush just launched in the U.S. and is priced under $30. What makes it stand out? It features patented bioelectric technology. Instead of traditional brushing, it creates an electromagnetic field around the bristles, sending out 10 million waves per second. This helps remove plaque from those tricky areas—whether it's braces, implants, or dentures—without relying on physical movement.

Then, there’s Great Gums Clinical Grade, available for pre-order. It’s priced at $200, but this model packs more power for patients who need enhanced care, for example post-surgery recovery or those dealing with gum disease. It’s rechargeable, comes with 3 brush heads, and offers the same bioelectric technology for gentler, more effective cleaning.

Finally, we have SmartShape Healers from BioHorizons. These new healing abutments are designed for scannability and esthetic improvements, making the workflow smoother. They offer site-specific configurations for gingival contouring and are compatible with both traditional and digital impressions. With 6 anatomical profiles and a 4-step workflow, these healers ensure better tissue contouring and reduced chair time, making them a solid addition to any dental practice.

That does it for this week's Product Bites from Dental Products Report. Stay up to date on all the latest dental product news by visiting dentalproductsreport.com/newdentalproducts.

I'm Kellie Nock saying thanks for listening. And we'll be back next week with all the latest new dental products on Product Bites from Dental Products Report.

Podcasts

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.  

Bluephase EasyCure is the Latest Curing Light from Ivoclar | Image Credit: © The Ivoclar Group

Ivoclar’s new Bluephase EasyCure curing light is the latest addition to the company’s Bluephase family.The Ivoclar Group, a leading manufacturer of integrated solutions for high-quality dental applications with an extensive product and systems portfolio for dentists, dental technicians and dental hygienists, introduced the new curing light today.

This device combines quality and ease of use, offering dentists an optimal solution for efficient light-curing. High reliability, intuitive operability and extensive material compatibility – the Bluephase EasyCure provides added comfort to both practitioners and patients in the daily workflow of dental practices, Ivoclar states.

Adequate curing in direct and indirect restorations is crucial, as it affects the mechanical strength, durability, functionality and esthetics of a dental restoration. Proper curing ensures that the material achieves its full strength, enabling it to withstand chewing forces and other mechanical stresses effectively.

Materials that are insufficiently cured can wear and fracture prematurely, thus reducing the service life of a restoration significantly. Properly cured materials form a stronger bond to the tooth structure, reducing gaps that could lead to caries or secondary caries, Ivoclar explains. Complete curing is also essential for the esthetics of the restoration, as it ensures a smooth surface and precise fit, preserving the natural appearance of the tooth.

For these reasons and more, a curing light is required that provides the correct wavelength and sufficient intensity to fully cure the material, significantly enhancing the quality and longevity of the restorations. Proper curing is a critical step in the overall restorative process. With the new Bluephase EasyCure, Ivoclar has introduced an effective and user-friendly addition to its family of curing lights.

The Bluephase EasyCure is designed for the intraoral polymerization of light-cured dental materials, offering a sleek yet effective solution thanks to its easy-to-use, 1-button operation.

The reliability of this curing light is ensured by its high light intensity of 1200 mW/cm², which guarantees efficient and uniform polymerization for all types of restorations, according to Ivoclar. This high light intensity ensures that the device can cure materials quickly and reliably, achieving uniform and complete polymerization. The homogeneous light distribution across the entire emission window of the light guide ensures that restorations are treated uniformly, which significantly enhances the quality and durability of dental restorations.

Another key benefit of the device is its highly intuitive and effortless operation, the company states. The 1-button functionality makes it highly convenient for everyday use, allowing dentists to fully focus on their work without being distracted by complex settings. The intuitive design helps minimize stress in the day-to-day workflow, creating a more relaxed work environment and improving patient comfort.

Additionally, the Bluephase EasyCure features material compatibility that emphasizes the device's versatility. It is suitable for curing all common light-curing dental materials and covers the full wavelength spectrum from 385 to 515 nm. Bluephase EasyCure is designed to integrate seamlessly into the existing workflows from Ivoclar and is compatible with all common light-curing dental materials. 

With the devices of the Bluephase family, the company offers every dental practice the right solution for professional curing as part of direct restorative treatments. Dentists can count on proven quality and ease of use, knowing that they are integrating a reliable and efficient device into their daily practice, Ivoclar says. To meet every requirement and application, Ivoclar offers 2 additional curing lights in its portfolio alongside the new Bluephase EasyCure.

The Bluephase PowerCure is the flagship of Ivoclar's Bluephase family, offering intelligent curing at the press of a button. It stands out with its cutting-edge technology, allowing for particularly fast and efficient curing. With exposure times starting at just 3 seconds and a light intensity of up to 3000 mW/cm², the device ensures precise and uniform curing of light-curing dental materials. The integrated, patented Polyvision technology is designed to continuously monitor the curing process in real-time and automatically adjust the exposure time to prevent errors. Its ergonomic design and wireless operation offer maximum comfort and flexibility. Additionally, it features 4 curing programs tailored to different applications and full compatibility with all common light-curing dental materials.

The Bluephase G4 features the patented Polyvision technology to enable real-time monitoring of the curing process, and automatically detects different materials and layer thicknesses, adjusting the curing time accordingly, which significantly enhances the quality of results. With a light intensity of up to 1200 mW/cm² and flexible, wireless operation, it is designed to ensure fast, precise and reliable curing. Users can choose between 2 curing programs, and the Bluephase G4 is available in 4 different colors and various configurations.

for more information about Ivoclar's Bluephase EasyCure.

Articles

The company expands its Bluephase family with new, high-quality, easy-to-use light-curing unit designed for modern dentistry.

Bluephase EasyCure is the Latest Curing Light from Ivoclar

VITA Expands VITABLOCS Product Lines, Launches Eco-Friendly Packaging. Image credit: © VITA


To mark its 100th anniversary, VITA has added new shades to 2 of its top CAD/CAM block lines: VITABLOCS® TriLuxe forte and VITABLOCS® Mark II. These new options offer dental professionals more flexibility in color matching for restorations, according to a press release from VITA.

VITABLOCS TriLuxe forte now includes 9 VITA classical A1-D4® shades, with 5 new additions: B1, B2, B3, C2, and C3. The blocks feature a 4-layer gradient to mimic the natural color variations of teeth, allowing for quick, single-session treatments. Known for their fine structure, they are reportedly easy to mill polish, with proven durability according to clinical studies. VITABLOCS Mark II has also expanded to include the shade B1C, adding to its existing range. This fine-particle ceramic block, which closely matches natural enamel in translucency and wear, has been used in over 20 million restorations.

In addition to the product updates, VITA has introduced new eco-friendly packaging. The CAD/CAM blocks will now come in standardized folding boxes, reducing the use of foam and plastic. Instructions will be accessible via QR code. For disc packaging, plastic and foam have been replaced by sustainable cardboard and molded fiber inserts, per the press release.

VITA has added new shades to its VITABLOCS CAD/CAM block, as well as introduce new eco-friendly product packaging. 

VITA Expands VITABLOCS Product Lines, Launches Eco-Friendly Packaging

Dr Kurtzman has completed over 4,500 hours of continuing education in the areas of implant dentistry, cosmetic dentistry and other dental topics. A graduate of The AAID / Howard University College of Dentistry Implant Maxi Course, he has been trained in all aspects of Implant Dentistry. He has achieved fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), Pierre Fauchard Academy (PFA), International Congress of oral Implantologists (ICOI), the American College of Dentists (ACD) and the Academy of Dentistry International (ADI). Holds mastership in the AGD and the Implant Prosthetic Section of the ICOI. He also has achieved diplomate status in the ICOI and the American Dental Implant Association (ADIA). He is a former Assistant Program Director for an university based Implant Maxi-Course and a former Assistant Clinical Professor at University of Maryland, Baltimore School of Dental Surgery in the department of Endodontics, Prosthetics and Operative Dentistry. An International lecturer, he has been recognized annually since 2006 as on of the "Top Dental Lecturers" by 

. Dr Kurtzman has published over 180 dental articles in national and international dental journals and is a consultant to multiple dental manufacturers.

Crown preps (and the unexpected challenges they can present) are among my favorite procedures. I love the test of turning my focus to a single tooth for an hour or 2. In our office, we commonly talk about striving to make each one the “best crown ever”—prep design, hemostasis, impressions, temporaries, crown fit, occlusion, and cement all play a role in trying to achieve this.

Implant selection may influence overall clinical success, especially when immediate loading is required. As implants under function have the predominance of load in the crestal portion of the ridge, the bone thickness plays a significant factor in maintenance of that aspect of the bone-to-implant contact (BIC).

 The majority of loading under function occurs at the crestal portion of the implant.

 The thicker the crestal bone around the implant, the better the load handling and preservation of this critical bone over time. Frequently, the thin buccal crestal aspect of bone adjacent to the implant resorbs, which may contribute to soft tissue recession and resultant esthetic compromise. Given time, this may progress to peri-implantitis and compromise the health of the implant. The thicker the crestal bone at the buccal/lingual dimension and between implants or the implant and adjacent natural teeth, the easier it is to preserve that critical crestal bone long term.

 Typically, when the tooth has been or will be lost to periodontal disease or the site has healed, the ridge width at the superior aspect of the ridge is narrower.

 This often results in thin bone thickness adjacent to the implant’s coronal aspect, which has the potential to resorb over time, or is related to homecare issues leading to peri-implantitis and other complications. Soft tissue thickness crestally also plays a factor in bone maintenance with a higher incidence of crestal bone loss reported in
thin biotypes.

Implant design plays a factor with how thick the crestal bone and soft tissue are following implant placement. Platform switching between the implant and abutment has been used to increase soft tissue thickness and aid in preservation of both the hard and soft tissues long term. Traditional implants may result in thinner tissue whereas an implant design that has a platform switch within the crestal portion of the implant will be apical to the implant’s platform. Maintenance of crestal bone is important to long-term success of the implant.

Clinical Benefits of the PRAMA Implant

The PRAMA implant (Sweden & Martina, Due Carrare, PD, Italy) addresses these issues by design, positioning the implant’s platform more coronal than traditional bone level implants (

). This decreases the potential for peri-implantitis by placing the platform more coronal to the biofilm and, therefore, associated bacteria are further from the crestal bone. The PRAMA implant is available in 3 body types designed for use in different bone densities (

). The PRAMA style has a flat self-tapping apex allowing better penetration ability with excellent primary stability. The PRAMA RF (root form) has a rounded apex with a tapered morphology designed specifically for the maxilla and lower density bone clinical situations to create maximum stability due to osseocompression upon insertion into the osteotomy. It is suitable when a crestal sinus elevation will be performed as part of implant placement. The PRAMA SL has deeper, more aggressive threads and is designed for use in less-dense bone (type 3) or in immediate placement into extraction sites to achieve higher BIC and implant stability. The design of the PRAMA neck being parallel in profile allows thicker bone crestally than standard designs with a flared neck (

Bone density plays a factor and correlates to the implant’s thread design. This is especially true in the less-dense bone of the maxilla. Immediate implant placement at the time of extraction has the potential for less BIC, so that thread design plays an important factor in initial implant stability.

 The implant’s thread design correlates to bone density at the time of placement and the deeper the threads, the greater the contact with the socket walls in immediate placement situations. This also plays a factor in implant placement in healed sites, especially in the less-dense bone of the maxilla. Sharper threads provide a self-tapping feature in bone of any density, increasing initial stability with higher insertion torque, permitting immediate loading.

The PRAMA implant is available in 3.8-mm, 4.25-mm, and 5.0-mm diameters with a platform switch to 3.40 mm at the top of the platform in each of the
3 diameters. The hyperbolic curve of the neck has different dimensions, according to the implant diameter (

). This standardizes the restorative components used. With maximizing crestal bone around the implant’s platform in mind, the PRAMA implant is designed with a slight platform switch at bone level or slightly subcrestal upon placement. The neck design provides the surgeon with the option as to placement depth depending on the clinical situation that presents with available neck heights of 1.80, 2.80, and 3.80 mm (

). The concave neck design provides what has been termed bone platform switching, to preserve additional marginal bone beyond the platform switch.

The neck design preserves a ring of marginal bone, reducing stress on the crestal cortical bone. This prevents vascular compression while preserving the peri-implant soft tissue. The implant-abutment connection additionally provides a platform switch with a smaller diameter coronal to the crestal bone. This provides increased space for biologic width, limiting potential bone resorption while stabilizing the soft tissue, ensuring papilla esthetics and its maintenance.

The PRAMA neck has microthreads, which are ideal for soft tissue attachment following healing and also permits osseointegration when in contact with hard tissues, thus making tissue management easier in post-extraction sockets and irregular crests (

). Moreover, it offers the option of a deeper insertion of the implant when needed. Those microgrooves provide mechanical stimulus to help preserve marginal bone, increase the surface area of the implant, and offer the ability of an implant to resist axial loads. The addition of microgrooves on the concave neck provides a bone-preservation strategy, serving a biomechanical purpose to increase implant surface area, reducing stress while promoting crestal bone maintenance under functional loading.

 The enhanced bone volume cervically provides greater resistance to bone resorption, reducing overall stress on the crestal cortex. The strategy of a platform switch and thicker crestal bone around the neck optimizes bone resorption resistance, stabilizing both hard and soft tissue. Additionally, when placing adjacent implants and the mesial-distal space is limited, the concave neck allows for thicker soft tissue, aiding in preservation of the interdental papilla and esthetic maintenance. A frequent occurrence when implants are placed at bone level may present with crestal bone loss over time following restoration of the implants (

). When compared with standard implants, the platform switch afforded by the PRAMA’s design provides thicker hard and soft tissue crestally, which will improve the stability of those delicate tissues (

 Implants with a convergent abutment profile favor axial development of peri-implant connective tissue. Moreover, the microthreaded surface of that convergent neck has been associated with denser and greater connective tissue organization, which may improve the peri-implant soft tissue seal.

Bone loss may result crestally depending on the position of the implant in relation to the crestal bone. Factors that influence that are implant-abutment connection design, implant geometry, implant position, bone density, surface finish material of the implant, and micro gap. Subcrestal implant placement results in greater distance from the implant platform to the crestal bone coronally on the implant. A study reported that mean crestal cortical bone thickness values at the dental implant sites were 0.93 ± 0.75 mm in maxilla and 1.44 ± 1.15 mm
in mandible.

Gingival stability around the implant relates to several factors, including gingival health related to the absence of inflammation and gingival thickness. Thin soft tissue crestally has a tendency to recede (migrate apically) and this becomes more important in patients with thinner soft tissue biotypes. That thinner soft tissue is also more prone to gingival inflammation. The goal to soft tissue maintenance and its underlying hard tissue crestally is creating a thicker gingival cuff to provide tissue stability.

RAMPA (Italian for ramp) refers to the soft tissue’s coronal migration during healing related to the concave (convergent) neck of the PRAMA implant. The convergent neck permits development of thicker gingival soft tissue as healing occurs following implant placement (

). The PRAMA’s microthreads on its neck give the collagen fibers of the gingival tissue an anchorage point on the implant, providing tissue stability. The result is coronal migration of the gingiva, a “ramping” up the convergent neck of the implant (

). The design of the neck allows maintenance of biological width due to the thicker soft tissue and crestal bone long term (

). Thus, esthetics is maintained long term.

Marginal bone loss is also minimized due to the thicker crestal bone when the implant has a convergent neck.

 This decreases the potential for peri-
implant changes that may result when thinner crestal bone is present at the implant’s coronal aspect. A study reported that less peri-implant bone loss occurs around supracrestal implants with convergent transmucosal morphology than implants with parallel or divergent transmucosal morphology.

The use of PRAMA’s transmucosal implant creates a shift of the inflammatory cell infiltrate away from the crestal bone level, thereby decreasing peri-implantitis potential and resulting in better long-term stability of hard and soft tissues.

 Results of a cohort study of 66 PRAMA implants during the 3-year follow-up showed that the implants were stable and free from complications. They indicated a high pink esthetic score and low percentage of bleeding on probing.

 This was supported by another study of 120 implants placed in 53 patients where the PRAMA implant exhibited less peri-implant bone loss than bone level implants regardless of the type of prosthesis used.

A patient presented with a maxillary lateral incisor with failing endodontic treatment performed in the past and hypereruption of the tooth (

). The tooth was extracted, and an immediate PRAMA SL implant (4.25 mm x 10 mm) was placed. Sufficient insertion torque was achieved. A healing abutment was placed and radiograph taken to document placement in relation to the adjacent anatomy (

). An immediate provisional restoration was fabricated, and the soft tissue positioned in a more coronal direction to correct the recession that had been present on the natural tooth (

). The provisional restoration was adjusted to be out of occlusion in all positions to avoid any hampering of osseointegration.

Following a 4-month osseointegration period, the patient was deemed to be ready for fabrication of the final restoration. The patient presented with healthy soft tissue with elimination of the pretreatment recession (

). Removal of the provisional restoration noted healthy soft tissue around the implant’s neck and RAMPA effect had occurred (

). An impression was taken and the lab fabricated the final restoration. Upon insertion of the final restoration, a periapical radiograph was taken demonstrating stability of the crestal bone as compared to the radiograph taken at insertion (

A patient presented with a coronally fractured maxillary premolar following loss of the existing crown. A radiograph was taken to evaluate the tooth (

). The tooth had prior endodontic treatment and was deemed structurally inadequate to restore the tooth due to lack of any coronal tooth structure. The patient was recommended immediate implant placement following extraction. If adequate insertion torque was achieved, an immediate provisional restoration would be placed.

The tooth was extracted under local anesthetic and a PRAMA implant (3.8 x 10 mm with a 2.85-mm neck) was placed at the level of the crest post extraction following osteotomy preparation (

). Although 45 Ncm insertion torque was achieved, it was decided not to provisionalize the implant and a healing abutment would be placed and a radiograph taken (

). A healing abutment was placed, and a radiograph taken to confirm full seating of the healing abutment at the implant’s platform (

). Allograft that was 50% cortical/cancellous graft material was placed into the coronal aspect of the socket around the healing abutment and the site sutured to contain the graft material (

). An OsseoGuard RCM membrane (ZimVie) was placed over the extraction socket with poncho technique using healing abutment.

The patient presented at the 4-month recall appointment and the implant was deemed ready to restore. The healing abutment was removed, and a healing gingival cuff was noted with RAMPA effect present (

). An impression was taken and sent to the lab for fabrication of the restoration. The final restoration was returned to the practice and inserted into the patient. A radiograph was taken to verify restoration seating at the implant’s platform (

). When the radiographs taken at implant placement are compared with the post-restoration radiographs, the crestal bone is noted to have maintained the same position, demonstrating the stability the PRAMA neck provides to hard and soft tissues.

The concave design of the PRAMA implant with its microgrooves allows for thicker crestal bone and soft tissue that improves maintenance of those surrounding tissues.

Robinson D, Aguilar L, Gatti A, Abduo J, Lee PVS, Ackland D. Load response of the natural tooth and dental implant: a comparative biomechanics study. 

. 2019;11(3):169-178. doi:10.4047/jap.2019.11.3.169

Oliveira H, Brizuela Velasco A, Ríos-Santos JV, et al. Effect of different implant designs on strain and stress distribution under non-axial loading: a three-dimensional finite element analysis. 

. 2020;17(13):4738. doi:10.3390/ijerph17134738

Patil SM, Deshpande AS, Bhalerao RR, Metkari SB, Patil PM. A three-dimensional finite element analysis of the influence of varying implant crest module designs on the stress distribution to the bone. 

Kim JJ, Ben Amara H, Chung I, Koo KT. Compromised extraction sockets: a new classification and prevalence involving both soft and hard tissue loss. 

. 2021;51(2):100-113. doi:10.5051/jpis.2005120256

Kadkhodazadeh M, Amid R, Moscowchi A. Effect of soft tissue condition on peri-implant health and disease: a retrospective clinical study. 

. 2022;42(2):e51-e58. doi:10.11607/prd.5690

Isler SC, Uraz A, Kaymaz O, Cetiner D. An evaluation of the relationship between peri-implant soft tissue biotype and the severity of peri-implantitis: a cross-sectional study. 

. 2019;34(1):187-196. doi:10.11607/jomi.6958

Pellicer-Chover H, Rojo-Sanchís J, Peñarrocha-Diago M, Viña-Almunia J, Peñarrocha-Oltra D, Peñarrocha-Diago M. Radiological implications of crestal and subcrestal implant placement in posterior areas. A cone-beam computed tomography study. 

. 2020;12(9):e870-e876. doi:10.4317/jced.56652

Carinci F, Brunelli G, Danza M. Platform switching and bone platform switching. 

. 2009;35(5):245-250. doi:10.1563/AAID-JOI-D-09-00022.

Yalçın M, Kaya B, Laçin N, Arı E. Three-dimensional finite element analysis of the effect of endosteal implants with different macro designs on stress distribution in different bone qualities. 

. 2019;34(3):e43-e50. doi:10.11607/jomi.7058

Cabanes-Gumbau G, Pascual-Moscardó A, Peñarrocha-Oltra D, García-Mira B, Aizcorbe-Vicente J, Peñarrocha-Diago MA. Volumetric variation of peri-implant soft tissues in convergent collar implants and crowns using the biologically orientedpreparation technique (BOPT). 

. 2019;24(5):e643-e651. doi:10.4317/medoral.22946

Canullo L, Giuliani A, Furlani M, Menini M, Piattelli A, Iezzi G. Influence of abutment macro- and micro-geometry on morphologic and morphometric features of peri-implant connective tissue. 

. 2023;34(9):920-933. doi:10.1111/clr.14118

Nimbalkar S, Dhatrak P, Gherde C, Joshi S. A review article on factors affecting bone loss in dental implants. 

. 2021;43(part 2):970-976.. Accessed September 9, 2024. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2214785320355383

Canullo L, Menini M, Covani U, Pesce P. Clinical outcomes of using a prosthetic protocol to rehabilitate tissue-level implants with a convergent collar in the esthetic zone: a 3-year prospective study. 

. 2020;123(2):246-251. doi:10.1016/j.prosdent.2018.12.022

Valente NA, Wu M, Toti P, Derchi G, Barone A. Impact of concave/convergent vs parallel/divergent implant transmucosal profiles on hard and soft peri-implant tissues: a systematic review with meta-analyses. 

. 2020;33(5):553-564. doi:10.11607/ijp.6726

Agustín-Panadero R, Martínez-Martínez N, Fernandez-Estevan L, Faus-López J, Solá-Ruíz MF. Influence of transmucosal area morphology on peri-implant bone loss in tissue-level implants. 

. 2019;(34):947-952. doi:10.11607/jomi.7329

Ceruso FM, Ottria L, Martelli M, Gargari M, Barlattani A Jr. Transgingival implants with a convergent collar (PRAMA); surgical and screwed prosthetic approach. A case report. 

Barlattani A Jr, Martelli M, Ceruso FM, Gargari M, Ottria L. Convergent implant transmucosal collar and healing abutment: aesthetics influence on soft tissues. A clinical study. 

Prati C, Zamparini F, Canullo L, Pirani C, Botticelli D, Gandolfi MG. Factors affecting soft and hard tissues around two-piece transmucosal implants: a 3-year prospective cohort study. 

. 2020;35(5):1022-1036. doi:10.11607/jomi.7778

Agustín-Panadero R, Bermúdez-Mulet I, Fernández-Estevan L, et al. Peri-implant behavior of tissue level dental implants with a convergent neck. 

. 2021;18(10):5232. doi:10.3390/ijerph18105232

Critical to an implant’s long-term success is tissue stability. We take a deep dive into implant design and how to improve maintenance for implant success.  

Clinical Benefits of the PRAMA Implant for Improved Soft and Hard Tissue Maintenance 

Plenty has been written about Shofu Dental Corporation’s bioactive Giomer Technology in the past years, but many clinicians may not yet know exactly what it is and why materials incorporating these benefits can be a great way to restore patients’ smiles and to do so for a long time.

The dental company has released a line of products featuring Giomer Technology, including Beautifil II Nano-Hybrid Universal Composite, BeautiLink SA, and Beautifil KIDS SA. Here, Shofu answers a series of questions from 

designed to explain how this unique technology benefits dental materials and patients and to answer any questions clinicians may still have about Giomer Technology.

Explain what Giomer Technology is and why it helps Shofu products stand out compared with other products available in the market.

 Giomer products have been proven in numerous clinical and laboratory studies to reduce secondary caries, neutralize acid, minimize sensitivity,and strengthen tooth structure. | Image Credit: © Shofu Dental Corp.

Shofu: Giomer Technology is a proprietary filler particle engineered and manufactured by Shofu Dental for use in our restoratives, preventatives, and cements. Unlike inert products created by other name-brand competitors, Giomer products have been proven in numerous clinical and laboratory studies to reduce secondary caries, neutralize acid, minimize sensitivity, and strengthen tooth structure through their release and recharge of fluoride and 5 other healthful ions for the life of the restoration. For decades, Shofu has been the leader in the advancement of bioactive dental materials to fulfill our mission of helping clinicians to “create healthy and beautiful smiles all over the world.”

Giomer products have been proven in numerous clinical and laboratory studies to reduce secondary caries, neutralize acid, minimize sensitivity,and strengthen tooth structure. | Image Credit: © Shofu Dental Corp.

Tell us about the process and the research and development of this technology.

, or teeth blackening, was common in Japan from the 1600s to the mid-1800s. It is believed that the ingredients used in this practice effectively prevented tooth decay, making it the pioneer of bioactive materials. By the mid 1800s, Japanese people no longer practiced this treatment, but still had the desire to have healthy teeth. Over the decades, many dental companies have tried various technologies and additives to achieve this purpose. Fast forward to the 1990s, when Nakatsuka, et al of Shofu’s Research and Development Department created the Giomer particle, which could be used as part of the filler for resin-based dental materials to offer clinicians a healthful alternative to numerous inert competitors.

Why does Shofu Dental feel it is important to offer products that provide a bioactive and therapeutic alternative to other, traditional restoratives?

Shofu: Since Shofu’s mission is to “create healthy and beautiful smiles all over the world,” we enable dentists who use Giomer products to enhance their patients’ smiles and promote the longevity of their teeth. Secondary decay, which is caused by bacterial infiltration and accumulation at the restorative margin, is the main cause of restorative failure.

 Before and after images of a case using Beautifil II Gingiva from Frank Milnar, DDS, AAACD. 

Clinicians who choose products that are clinically proven to significantly reduce secondary decay also reduce the likelihood of restorative failure, thus improving the durability of their work.

In recent years there is a greater acceptance that good oral health contributes to good systemic health. Chronic health conditions such as endocarditis, cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer disease, diabetes, and many others are statistically linked to poor oral health.

 This “oral-systemic link” continues to be proven stronger every year as additional studies are released. This is why it is so important for clinicians to consider these materials for clinical use.

These ions have been clinically proven to inhibit plaque, neutralize acid, and eliminate secondary decay. Please share any key findings from clinical studies as well as Shofu research explaining the bioactive and therapeutic benefits of Giomer Technology products.

Shofu: Based on the technical knowledge of each element, the bioactivity of each ion listed below is well known in dentistry and medicine. Here is a list of the individual ions released and recharged by the Giomer particle with the healthful features of each.

. Minimal bacterial colonization (Giomer Technology).

. Advanced bacterial colonization (conventional composites).

During the initial stage of developing Giomer, it was assumed that each ion would independently produce the bioactive effect listed above. However, after exhaustive clinical research, additional bioactive effects were realized due to the synergistic effect of the 6 ions. We have resources listed on our website, Shofu.com, or you can Google Giomer studies to review the studies and learn more about the healthful benefits of Giomer.

How many Shofu products include this technology and what cases are these materials indicated for?

Shofu: Shofu’s composites all feature bioactive Giomer Technology. We also offer cements, a desensitizer, and a sealant that incorporate this innovative technology.

There are 2 nano-hybrid universal composites: Beautifil II and Beautifil II LS. Both offer superior strength and polishability. The unique filler structure combines the light transmission and diffusion properties of both dentin and enamel to blend with the surrounding dentition. The esthetics make them ideal for anterior restorations, and the high filler load, wear resistance, and low shrinkage make them strong enough for posterior restorations. The main difference between the 2 universal composites is the handling: Beautifil II has a smooth consistency, while Beautifil II LS has a firm consistency.

Beautifil II Gingiva is a specialty composite available in 5 gingiva shades, which can be layered and blended to create custom gingival shades for all ethnicities. This composite is designed to improve gingival symmetry, repair recession, and disguise exposed crowns and bridges margins and implant abutments. Additionally, Giomer Technology may enhance tissue response and periodontal health in Class V restorations and noncarious cervical lesions.

 Flavio Henriques, DDS, MS, PhD, used Beautifil II LS for this restoration.

Beautifil II Enamel is a specialized nano-
hybrid universal composite offered in 4 unique translucent shades. It is suitable for esthetically restoring cases involving incisal edges, naturally translucent dentition, enamel loss, composite veneering, and other complex cosmetic cases.

Shofu has 2 nano-hybrid flowable composites, Beautifil Flow Plus and Beautifil Flow Plus X. These products are quite similar and are for all restoration classes, including occlusal and cusp. Beautifil Flow Plus was the first flowable composite to receive FDA approval for use on restorative Classes I to V. Both composites offer better compressive strength and wear resistance than many leading universal composites. They also have similar light transmission and diffusion properties to our universal composites.

Beautifil Flow Plus and Beautifil Flow Plus X are available in 2 viscosities: Zero Flow and Low Flow. The Zero Flow (F00) provides excellent shape retention and accurately restores occlusal morphology without slumping, while the Low Flow (F03) thoroughly wets the cavity walls and offers superior adaptation. The main difference between the 2 is that Beautifil Flow Plus X is the newest version, which features improved polishability and handling.

There are 2 self-adhesive flowable composites: Beautifil Kids SA and FIT SA. Both have eliminated the technique-sensitive bonding procedure. Beautifil Kids SA is ideal for preventive resin restoration and small Class I restorations, while FIT SA F10 is used as a liner.

BeautiSealant is a pit and fissure sealant that does not require acid etching, saving time and money. It offers superior bond strength for long-term durability and features BPA- and HEMA-free chemistry.

BeautiLink SA is our newest addition to the line of Giomer products. This unique self-adhesive resin cement is a dual-cured product specifically designed for zirconia restorations, which are the standard material for today’s crowns. Giomer Technology reduces the caries-causing bacteria in the preparation or infiltrating the margins, greatly reducing the No. 1 cause of crown failure.

Finally, PRG Barrier Coat is a light-cured, resin-based desensitizer that is the ultimate solution for prolonged desensitization. It blocks occludes and protects the dentin tubules from external irritants for up to 6 months.

What has been the feedback from clinicians using these products?

Shofu: The doctors who use our products have given very positive feedback. They have mentioned that the products are easy to use [and] look great, and their patients do not experience postoperative sensitivity. They appreciate the bioactive Giomer Technology, which significantly reduces secondary decay and the need for redoing their restorations due to failure from bacterial infiltration. In addition, Giomer Technology products have received multiple awards and recognition from independent organizations, including The Dental Advisor, Catapult, and Dental Product Shopper.

Beautifil Flow Plus X case from Paiman Lalla, DDS, AEGD, FICOI, FAAIP. 

This technology appears primed to have a significant impact on dental restorations going forward. What does Shofu see with this technology going forward and just how impactful might these materials be in the future?

Shofu: Shofu’s R&D constantly explores how Giomer Technology can be used in other products. We anticipate a few new products coming in the next few years. As time goes by and the benefits of the bioactive Giomer Technology continue to be more recognized and accepted, it will become increasingly clear why doctors should use these types of products that benefit their patients.

Elaborate on some of the esthetic benefits and how the unique filler structure gives Giomer restoratives the light transmission and diffusion properties of both dentin and enamel to blend well with surrounding dentition without the need for complex layering techniques required by many competitors.

Shofu: With its exceptional light transmission and diffusion properties, this material offers superb shade-matching capabilities. The chameleon effect successfully replicates the internal structure of natural teeth, virtually eliminating complex layering techniques to simplify the placement of composite restorations. Clinicians have told us that the reduced procedure time and reduction of composite inventory has made their practices more efficient. This is especially beneficial to dental service organizations, health centers, dental schools, and practices who accept insurance.

In conclusion, Shofu believes that Giomer products should be available and affordable for all dentists; therefore, they are available from virtually every dental distributor at prices that are typically 30% less than most other name brands.

1. Mjör IA, Moorhead JE, Dahl JE. Reasons for replacement of restorations in permanent teeth in general dental practice. 

2000;50(6):361-366. doi:10.1111/j.1875-595x.2000.tb00569.x

2. McMains V. Healthy mouth, healthy body. National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research News. May 8, 2024. Accessed September 5, 2024.
https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/news-events/nidcr-news/2024/healthy-mouth-healthy-body

The dental company has a comprehensive line of products that take advantage of this materials technology to assist clinicians striving to deliver good-looking, long-lasting restorations.

A Close Look at the Benefits of Shofu’s Giomer Technology

Ultradent Products, Inc has joined the many efforts to help the Red Cross assist in relief efforts by those affected by the deadly Hurricane Helene.

The company—a leading developer and manufacturer of high-tech dental materials—is donating 5% of total sales from orders placed tomorrow (Tuesday, October 8) to the Red Cross to support relief efforts for those affected by Hurricane Helene. Helene, the deadliest hurricane to hit the mainland U.S. since Katrina in 2005, has claimed more than 225 lives after the storm ravaged the Southeast and killed people in 6 states. About half the victims were in North Carolina, while dozens more were killed in Georgia and South Carolina.

"The devastation caused by Hurricane Helene has deeply impacted countless lives and we are inspired by the compassion we’ve seen from so many people working to help those in need,” says Ultradent President and CEO Dirk Jeffs in today’s press release. “We invite the dental community to join us in supporting these communities through the Red Cross.”

Additionally, Ultradent is offering dental supplies to affected care providers to assist in their recovery. For more information about Ultradent, visit 

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The nonprofit organization depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. If interested in more information on the organization’s efforts, visit 

The dental company is donating 5% of total sales from orders placed on October 8 to the Red Cross to support relief efforts for those affected by the deadly storm.

Ultradent Products Supporting Red Cross for Hurricane Helene Relief

DWX-53D Milling Solution from Roland DGA

V-Print DT is a 3D print resin designed for highly esthetic permanent denture teeth.

V-Print DT from VOCO America 

Lewie offers a variety of oral care products including the Lewie Whitening Wand

Whitening Wand from Lewie

Microcopy’s NeoSpiral burs are designed to direct water flow and debris removal with unprecedented efficiency.

NeoSpiral Burs from Microcopy

New Dental Products – September 30 - October 4, 2024

All the latest product launches from the week of September 30 through October 4, 2024.

John Flucke, DDS, is in private practice in Lee’s Summit, Mo. He also serves as chief clinical editor and technology editor for 

® and keeps an active blog filled with thoughts and tidbits on the world of technology at blog.denticle.com.

has a section devoted to coverage of the 2024 Cellerant Best of Class Technology Awards. You’ll find a full listing of the winners along with descriptions of the products as well as some reasons from the panelists on why they voted as they did.

However, you may be asking yourself, “Why does one more dental award matter?” and I’d like to take some time this month to explain just that. After all, there are several awards given out in the profession each year, so why are the Cellerant Best of Class Technology Awards special? Allow me to explain.

The program began back in 2009 when Cellerant Consulting Group founder and CEO Lou Shuman, DMD, CAGS, had a vision for an award to provide recognition to companies that were developing leading-edge products for the profession. Originally it was called the Cellerant Best of Class Technology Award, and the focus was tech centric. However, shortly after the award’s inception, the group quickly realized that there were many other companies and products that deserved recognition for cutting-edge materials and devices that fell outside of the technology category. This gave birth to the current wide scope of product considerations.

The panel is composed of prominent technology leaders in dentistry. They are Dr Shuman, Paul Feuerstein, DMD (editor in chief of 

), Pamela Maragliano-Muniz, DMD (chief editor of 

), Marty Jablow, DMD (“America’s Dental Technology Coach”), Chris Salierno, DDS (chief dental officer of Tend), and myself.

As both technophiles and doctors, the panel members approach the voting process by considering what we would purchase for our practices to help give our patients the best care and best results possible. By putting ourselves in the shoes of the doctors who benefit from our selection, we hope to help the profession and the patients we serve.

The awards require a rigorous nonprofit, impartial process and that is exactly the way it happens.Every year the panel meets to talk about products that have impressed them. There are no guaranteed categories, ensuring the panelists are free to bring up any product they feel has made or is poised to make a significant impact on the profession. Each product is discussed and debated. Not all nominees win, even if they are the only product considered for a category they cover.

Occasionally a product from the previous year continues to impress and again is recognized with an award. This lets the industry know that the product has still met expectations and has a track record of success.

Throughout the year, the panelists scour the dental landscape to find products to discuss.Some of them are from companies with a major industry footprint, while others are from small start-ups that are just beginning to find their way into the dental landscape.

Chief dental and technology editor John Flucke, DDS, gives an in-depth look at the annual Cellerant Best of Class Awards, from their history to the decision-making process.