Designed to help shield dental patients from the potential risks dental radiography poses to ocular tissues, the OCU-GUARD offers protection on par with lead aprons.

When a dental patient is lined up for radiographs, the eyes can inadvertently be exposed to radiation, and this is especially true for pediatric patients who have smaller heads, and thus their eyes are closer to their mouths. To address this issue, the patented OCU-GUARD is a flexible eye-mask featuring finely divided lead particles contained within a durable vinyl matrix. The design reportedly offers radiation attenuation greater than 93%, and the vinyl structure prevents the lead particles from any contact with the patient’s skin.

Fabricated in the USA, the masks are designed with an even distribution of the lead within the vinyl matrix to ensure even protection throughout the device. The manufacturing process and finished OCU-GUARD shields pass stringent testing protocols including ASTM, IEC 61331-1, and DIN6857-1.

The flexible shield is designed for durability and requires no maintenance besides cleaning with a disinfectant wipe. With each shield guaranteed to last for at least 500 exams, the cost per use is approximately 10 cents.

Articles

This new patient safety device is designed to help patients minimize the risks to their eyes from ionizing radiation.

Protect Patients’ Eyes From Radiation with OCU-GUARD

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. 

Orthodontic Photobiomodulation Group Launches OrthoPulse in the United States. Image credit: © BioLux Technology


Orthodontic technology company, Biolux Technology has announced the U.S. launch of its updated OrthoPulse product and platform. This new version, OrthoPulse 2.0, reportedly offers enhanced reliability and an expanded pool of clinical evidence to bolster orthodontic care, according to a press release from BioLux Technology.

"OrthoPulse and its platform have become a standard of care, especially for complex adult aligner treatments. We have successfully treated hundreds of patients with OrthoPulse, resulting in significantly reduced refinements. We highly recommend utilizing this innovative technology," said Dr Leone Paola in the press release.

Micheal Hendricks will lead this new phase for OrthoPulse in the U.S., which, according to BioLux, is a commitment to advancing the company’s mission. He expressed enthusiasm in the press release. "Our improved product, combined with robust clinical evidence, positions us to better serve our partner doctors and advance the field of orthodontics. We look forward to establishing our presence and building strong relationships with our clinicians."

OrthoPulse's technology uses photobiomodulation to stimulate the bone surrounding the roots of teeth which enables tooth movement for aligner and bracket patients. Photobiomodulation is a non-invasive treatment option, which may make it appealing to patients who are seeking efficient and comfortable orthodontic care, per the press release.

To learn more about Orthopulse, visit the 

Biolux Technology has launched OrthoPulse 2.0 in the U.S., featuring enhanced reliability and extensive clinical support that aims to improve orthodontic care with advanced photobiomodulation technology.

Orthodontic Photobiomodulation Group Launches OrthoPulse in the United States

Tapered Pro Conical Implants from BioHorizons

quip 360 Oscillating Toothbrush from quip

Renamel Shades from Cosmedent

EzAim™ SoftBite™ from Pac-Dent

DentalLLM from Sikka.ai

M9 and M11 from Midmark

New Dental Products – July 8 - July 12, 2024

All the latest dental product launches from July 8 through July 12, 2024.

Midmark Introduces New M9 and M11 Steam Sterilizers. Image credit: © Midmark Corp.


Midmark has announced the launch of its new Midmark M9 and M11 Steam Sterilizers. These sterilizers are designed with durability and ease-of-use in mind, with features aimed at streamlining instrument processing and documentation compliance, according to a press release from Midmark.

"Effective instrument processing starts with dependable equipment and a simple, standardized workflow," said in the press release by Michael Couch, marketing director at Midmark Dental. "Next generation Midmark M9 and M11 Steam Sterilizers are designed with dental clinicians in mind, providing durability, automation, and easy-to-use operation to deliver safe, efficient care.”

Key features of the new sterilizers include:

A user interface with a clear, fingerprint-resistant 5-inch touchscreen, usable with gloves and containing both a light and dark mode.

Compliance recordkeeping that device reminders, user authentication, and automated cycle recordkeeping help for optimal audit readiness.

A re-engineered chamber that reportedly increases device life to 25,000 cycles, reducing maintenance frequency by more than half.

Lower operating and care costs compared to competitive models.

The dynamic-air-removal steam sterilizers provide preset cycles that meet CDC and AAMI recommendations for wrapped instruments.

Optional Autofill + Auto-Drain enables fresh water for every cycle, easing the burden on staff.

The units are inspected and certified to the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code by a licensed third-party inspector, per the press release. Accessories are available to optimize instrument processing, including a cool hand tool, USB kit, vertical cassette rack, and pouch racks.

The new Midmark Steam Sterilizers are now available. To learn more, visit 

Midmark has launched the new M9 and M11 Steam Sterilizers, designed to enhance durability, ease of use, and instrument processing compliance for dental professionals. 

Midmark Introduces New M9 and M11 Steam Sterilizers

A bite-sized look at all the latest dental product launches. 

Product Bites – July 12, 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 Blue Sky Bio, SDI, and TBS Dental.

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

First up, Blue Sky Bio has just unveiled their new dental implant photogrammetry system, the Blue Sky Bio Grammee. This scanner, powered by Tupel 3D, aims to enhance the way we measure implant positions. It's designed to be accurate, efficient, and affordable. The Grammee scanner is battery-powered and wireless, offering a ±6 micron repeatability with an angular repeatability of ±1/30th of a degree. This incredible accuracy is thanks to Blue Sky Bio's "Iterative Noise Reduction" system, which allows for narrow camera separation and small posts. The scanner also features an LCD display, making it easier to view implant positions. Plus, it boasts Wi-Fi connectivity and supports data transfers via USB 2.0, USB 3.0, or Wi-Fi. According to Blue Sky Bio, the scanner calibrates in just 1 minute and 30 seconds, with a scan time of 20 seconds, depending on the number of posts and CPU cores. The Grammee outputs an STL CAD file for implant positioning, including abutment data and scan bodies, which is crucial for the next steps in implant design. The software also includes auto-calibration, scanning feedback, and an auto-merge feature that can combine up to 10 posts per jaw.

Next, let's talk about the Riva Cem Automix from SDI. This resin-modified glass ionomer cement features the company's revolutionary ionglass™ technology, designed to deliver optimal strength and esthetics. Riva Cem Automix is self-curing, radiopaque, and fluoride-releasing, making it ideal for the permanent cementation of metal and ceramic restorations like zirconia, porcelain, and orthodontic bands. The ionglass technology incorporates a unique blend of differently sized reactive glass particles that harness ion-release to cross-link polycarboxylic acid chains. This results in higher bond strength, improved durability, and more stable esthetic properties. The automix tip attachment adds convenience over traditional hand-mixed cement systems. According to SDI, a 2022 study showed that Riva Cem Automix offers superior enamel/dentin bond strength compared to leading cements. It also boasts superior flexural strength based on the company's internal data.

Lastly, TBS Dental has launched a new collection of regenerative materials called REGEN. This line includes regenerative bone and membrane materials aimed at socket preservation and soft tissue regeneration. The first product in the REGEN line is the TBS Allograft Bone in a syringe applicator. This ergonomic and precise applicator is designed for placing mineralized cortico-cancellous bone particulate, making it ideal for use in the posterior region. REGEN also includes TBS Allograft Powder, a 50/50 blend of cortico-cancellous particulate that supports bone regeneration. This blend provides an osteoconductive scaffold to remodel the host bone effectively. Finally, the REGEN line features TBS Membrane, which boasts a lower occurrence of soft tissue dehiscence, superior tensile strength, and other attractive features due to its unique bio-structure.

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

A bite-sized look at all the latest new dental product launches. This week's episode features launches from Blue Sky Bio, SDI, and TBS Dental.

Lisa Newburger, a master's level social worker supervisor, helps audiences find humor in talking about tough topics. Her "in-your-face" style of presentations and writing will make you smile or just shock you into taking some action. Either way, she is very effective at empowering others to reach their goals and feel better about themselves. Her entertaining workshops are available for national and international audiences. Writing for the dental industry since 2010, she uses an alterego (Diana Directive) to illustrate her points in a sarcastic but effective way. Presentations can be scheduled by contacting Lisa at www.discussdirectives.com/dental.html.

A roundtable discussion on dental care for elderly patients.

Mastermind – Episode 38 – Providing Dental Care for Older Patient Populations

Join Lisa Newburger, LISW-S, Melanie Adelstein, DMD, Rick Adelstein, DDS, Shelley Brown, RDH, BSDH, and John Flucke, DDS, for an enlightening 28-minute roundtable discussion on the best practices for delivering dental care to older patient populations. In this insightful conversation, these experts bring their unique perspectives and expertise to the table, addressing key challenges and solutions for providing optimal oral health care to seniors.

Together, these professionals share a comprehensive, empathetic dialogue, with valuable tips, strategies, and real-world examples to help dental practitioners enhance the quality of care they provide to their older patients. 

Videos

Join Lisa Newburger, LISW-S, Melanie Adelstein, DMD, Rick Adelstein, DDS, Shelley Brown, RDH, BSDH, and John Flucke, DDS, as they have a roundtable discussion on the best ways to deliver dental care to older patient populations. [28 minutes] 

Planet DDS Launches Program to Support Growing Dental Practices. Image credit: © Planet DDS

Planet DDS has announced the release of its new Launchpad Program. This program was created with the specific mission to support new dental and orthodontic groups scale and grow by providing access to Planet DDS’s series of cloud solutions, including Denticon, Cloud 9, Apteryx, and Legwork.

According to a press release from Planet DDS, eligible dental groups will benefit from an 80% savings on management and imaging features in these system. These features include artificial intelligence (AI)-powered clinical recommendations, booking features, automated tools to alleviate administrative stress, and accounts receivable features. Another benefit is education and support resources from the team at Planet DDS

Eric Giesecke, CEO of Planet DDS, expressed in the press release, "The Launchpad Program represents a strategic investment in the future of dentistry. By supporting the growth of practices, we're enhancing the health of communities and driving the industry forward."

The program aims to provide dental and orthodontic practices with the tools needed to achieve excellence in dental care while increasing access to technology. Planet DDS hopes to be the DentalOS™ of the industry by offering this customizable platform, empowering users to make the best decisions for their growth, per the press release.

One of the first participants in the program is Panhandle Pediatric Dentistry, with 5 locations in Panama City. Lorany Vazquez, Director of Operations at Panhandle Pediatric Dentistry, stated in the press release, “We are excited to join the Launchpad Program. The support and advanced tools from Planet DDS will help us streamline our operations, enhance patient care, and propel our organization to the next level.”

Pearl AI has also joined the program, providing members with advanced AI-powered radiologic and case presentation capabilities in Apteryx. Ophir Tanz, CEO of Pearl AI, said in the press release, “Like Planet DDS, we believe that emerging dental groups committed to growth through clinical excellence should be enabled with the most advanced dental technologies available. We’re proud to support this novel initiative to help these practices elevate patient care, recruit leading talent, and grow their value.”

Planet DDS is inviting other industry leaders to participate as well, including Thinc Forward and Optimize Dental Consulting. These leaders will contribute educational content, as well as insight into information and technology systems.

The Launchpad Program is available to eligible dental and orthodontic groups with a minimum of 2 locations and annual revenue between $3M and $25M. The group must be a new Planet DDS customer, and private equity-backed firms are not eligible.

For more information and to sign up, visit the Planet DDS 

Planet DDS has launched the Launchpad Program to support emerging dental and orthodontic groups by providing access to advanced cloud-based solutions and expert guidance.

Planet DDS Launches Program to Support Growing Dental Practices

Described as the most advanced language model developed for the dental industry, Sikka.ai recently launched its DentalLLM artificial intelligence (AI) platform.

The new AI solution is built on the de-identified dental practice data gathered on the Sikka.ai API platform from more than 30,000 practices over 15 years. The new platform can provide dental-specific content more effectively than general-purpose language models such as ChatGPT, according to a press release.

"We are excited to bring DentalLLM to market and the positive impact it will have on the dental industry," Vijay Sikka, founder & CEO of Sikka.ai. says in the press release. "Our goal is to empower dental professionals and app developers with cutting-edge AI tools that enhance their efficiency and improve patient outcomes."

DSOs and other group dental practices can benefit from the new DentalLLM platform through data-driven insights that can be used to drive operational enhancements and other business decisions. With access to data from dental practices from across the country including procedure fees, procedure metrics, and payment data, the platform can be used for tasks including benchmarking, trendspotting, and more. DSOs using the system can query data specifically from their practices, or look at industry-wide information.

Additionally, the Sikka.ai DentalLLM will be accessible to software developers via the Sikka ONE API, allowing them to incorporate dental-specific AI into their offerings. The DentalLLM can also be used as a standalone database of de-identified dental information with data covering scheduling, treatment planning, patient demographics, and billing and insurance information.

Sikka.ai DentalLLM is described as an advanced language model designed specifically to provide dental operations with data and insights that meet their unique needs.

Sikka.ai Announces Dental-Specific Artificial Intelligence Offering

Marketing solutions company UpSwell has announced its acquisition of Dental Marketing. The acquisition was finalized on June 14, 2024, and was strategically done to bolster UpSwell's capacity in the dental marketing industry, according to a press release from UpSwell.

Dental Marketing is recognized for its comprehensive direct mail and marketing services which are designed specifically for dental practices. The company is reportedly known for its campaign tracking and its relationships within the dental industry.

Eric Goodstadt, CEO of UpSwell, expressed excitement in the press release. "We are thrilled to expand our footprint and expertise in the dental industry with the acquisition of Dental Marketing. Welcoming the Dental Marketing team and their clients into the UpSwell family enables us to leverage our collective resources to accelerate growth and deliver superior marketing solutions for our dental customers."

Shawn Rowbotham, President of Dental Marketing, who will stay on as a dental industry lead, also expressed enthusiasm in the press release. "This merger with UpSwell marks an exciting development for Dental Marketing. It allows us to offer our clients expanded products, including digital marketing services, further enriching the value we provide and continuing our commitment to excellence and innovation within the dental marketing landscape."

Marketing solutions company UpSwell has strategically acquired Dental Marketing to expand its marketing capabilities like campaigns in the dental sector. 

UpSwell Acquires Dental Marketing

Feature a number of tools designed to allow dental professionals to manage practice tasks from their mobile devices, Practice by Numbers recently announced the launch of the PbN Grow 2.0 mobile app. The latest version of the app introduces new features designed to add efficiency to practice operations and enhance patient care.

The new version of the app offers a refreshed user interface that is described in a press release as intuitive to navigate. The app allows users to book patient appointments for both existing and new patients, and the enhanced patient messaging functionality allows practice staff to send form invites and manage the status of patient conversations. New patients can be added to the app using the “+” icon on the home screen, and patient payments and stored credit cards can be managed from the patient profiles.

In-app team messaging allows the practice staff to communicate and collaborate using their mobile devices. The app also provides key practice metrics including PracticeIQ and RevenueIQ to help monitor practice operations from anywhere.

The PbN Grow 2.0 app is available for download from the Apple App Store.

Designed for use on devices running Apple’s iOS platform, the app allows dental professionals to manage practice tasks from mobile devices.