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.

Video Test Drive by John Flucke, DDS: Riva Cem Automix from SDI 

Video Test Drive: Riva Cem Automix from SDI

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Riva Cem Automix features SDI’s revolutionary ionglass technology. This unique blend of different sized reactive glass particles harnesses ion-release to cross-link polycarboxylic acid chains. [4 minutes]

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.  

The Modern State of Minimal Dentistry | Image Credit: © Kristen Morabito / MJH Life Sciences Using AI

The concept of minimally invasive dentistry (MID) means different things to different clinicians, and it’s far from a new idea.

Some 3 decades ago when cosmetic dentistry first took off, many people wanted a Hollywood smile and were not concerned about how much tooth structure was removed to achieve those extreme makeovers. Veneers—some procedures of which today would seem plenty invasive—were popular in the 1990s. Also, everyone seemed to be pushing tooth whitening lights and materials, some of which worked better than others and some of which caused patients to experience sensitivity issues.

Fast forward to today and many things have changed, but the concept and the importance of providing MID is more important than ever. Patients expect to keep their teeth longer while they live longer. They expect procedures and treatments to prevent caries, reduce the need for surgeries, and to provide care with as little pain as possible.

Thanks to advances in materials, techniques, and technology, all these expectations can and should be met today. Improved early diagnostic methods can better fend off caries and tackle periodontal issues, and technological advances in terms of imaging, lasers, and even rotary instrumentation have had positive impacts as well. The awareness that minor tooth movements can prevent the need for major treatments later, coupled with clear aligner therapy advances in software, technique, and materials, means more general practitioners (GPs) can deliver more efficient orthodontic care to their patients.

In addition to all the new developments, lessons learned years ago by organizations such as the World Congress of Minimally Invasive Dentistry (WCMID)—which used to meet annually to showcase topics such as how materials and research on caries risk assessment can help prevent them and how lasers can play a role—planted seeds that have an impact today.

Now, many material companies offer products designed to remineralize tooth structure and others offer prescription-formula toothpaste and rinses geared toward preventing caries for at-risk patients who need a little extra tooth protection.

Chris Walinski, DDS, a longtime consultant and educator in laser dentistry, was the WCMID president many years ago. Back then, air abrasion was more common than it is today, but early caries detection systems were just taking hold, and dental materials geared specifically for MID protocols also were in their early stages.

“Twenty years ago, I was president of the [WCMID],” he says. “The hot topics were wet vs dry air abrasion, ozone therapy, early caries detection systems, and biomimetic restorations. If I had to boil it down, the emphasis was [on treating] our patients using a medical model to treat disease rather than the surgical model we still employ today. In other words, treat bacterial infections including dental caries so that we could stop excavating or amputating portions of our patients’ teeth.”

While some clinicians may argue that not enough of today’s dentists implement adequate minimally invasive methods in their everyday care, great strides in awareness, expectations, and follow-through have made for better results and happier patients.

“Many of the philosophies and techniques we implemented back then are now staples in our treatment regimens,” adds Dr Walinski, now the dental director for a dental service organization. “An example would be caries management by risk assessment (CAMBRA), which is taught in every dental school in the country. I am proud of how instrumental the WCMID was in bringing [MID] into the mainstream.”

CAMBRA protocol consists of analyzing the dental patient’s profile by assessing their risk and protective factors and assigning a risk level to the patient to develop an individualized treatment plan. This protocol combines restorative treatments with preventive chemical therapy.

Like Dr Walinski, V. Kim Kutsch, DMD, was a fixture at WCMID conferences years ago and a pioneer in the CAMBRA protocol. The longtime dentist, who was frustrated about the lack of effective options for cavity-prone patients, worked with researchers and world-renowned experts to find a solution. He launched CariFree products in 2004 and his company, Oral BioTech, has a line of products geared toward cavity prevention with a blueprint that includes antibacterial and acidity reduction, proprietary pH+ technology, fluoride for remineralization, and nano-hydroxyapatite.

The CariFree products are just some of many dental solutions available today designed to help prevent cavities, remineralize tooth structure, limit the removal of as much healthy tooth structure as possible, and provide the least invasive, longest-lasting optimal care for patients.

“In regard to the biomimetic movement, I feel personally that this was originally referred to as minimally invasive dentistry almost a decade or so ago,” says Gregor Connell, VOCO Canada/America Inc, North American Director of Clinical Education. “To speak to this movement, I published an article in the southern hemisphere journal, 

 back in 2023. The article introduced the reader to the 6 key material tests that composites undergo that really matter once the material is placed in the mouth.”

These tests were termed key clinical performance indicators (KCPI), and if a material could achieve tooth-like values the material could have a very positive impact on long-term marginal integrity and success of direct restorations, he adds.

 REVEAL provides the visual information to support decision making and treatment options. | Image Credit: © Designs For Vision

“Minimally invasive dentistry is only one half of the equation—if you are placing a non-tooth-like material into the MIP [maximum intercuspal position], you cannot expect an optimal outcome. VOCO created a family of restorative materials over the past decade that focus on having ‘tooth-like’ properties, offering a more synergistic restorative medium to promote longevity and function,” Connell adds.

VOCO’s product line includes GrandioSO, GrandioSO Xtra, and GrandioSO Heavy Flow materials formulated to deliver function and long-lasting results.

Jeff Rohde, DDS, and Katrina Sanders, RDH, are each passionate about providing the best, minimally invasive care to their patients. Dr Rohde lectures on a variety of topics, including clear aligner therapy and dental lasers, while Sanders too is an international speaker and a co-host of the 

, in partnership with The Sanders sisters.

Dr Rohde is all in on using his Solea all-tissue laser from Convergent Dental, maintaining as much healthy tooth structure as possible, and keeping his patients happy and comfortable.

Technology has a major impact here, as lasers can mean less painful injections, and same-day digital dentistry can mean fewer visits to the office for patients getting a crown milled chairside. Many patients will tell you an intraoral scan is less invasive than placing trays with impression material in their mouths, so there again technology is a plus.

But one thing Dr Rohde is adamant about is using orthodontics to move teeth and eliminate the need for more extensive surgeries.

“There are 2 ways where you can say minimally invasive,” explains Dr Rohde, who has lectured on behalf of Dentsply Sirona and its SureSmile aligner therapy. “One is, if you are going to do work, you’re aligning the teeth first. Any esthetic case where you can get the roots in the right position first means more conservative preparations, right?”

A veneer prep when teeth are not properly aligned can be the opposite of minimally invasive because the first thing you must do in that situation is “cut everything off that’s not in the right spot,” he says. “So, you’re amputating all this tooth structure unnecessarily, when if you just move it into position now, you can do your ultraconservative treatment, right?”

Another aspect with MID in mind is to avoid certain procedures in the first place. Correcting a patient’s bite with aligner therapy can improve the periodontal health of the patient and prevent incorrect wear on the teeth.

“Rather than waiting for the destruction, gradually having the slow decline of teeth and incorrect wear and periodontal disease, the minimally invasive part is, why wait until the problem has just gotten worse? You’re going to fix it on the front end. When someone’s teeth and bite are all in the correct position, then your need for maintenance goes way down. You’re fixing the potential [problems] that way,” Dr Rohde adds.

Many lessons have been learned since the cosmetic explosion decades ago. One, says Dr Rohde, is that veneers should not be placed as a temporary cosmetic fix that leaves long-term problems in the mouth.

 Using systems such as Dentsply Sirona’s SureSmile can prevent severe situations. | Image Credit: © Dentsply Sirona

“If someone has good teeth [but] they’re just in the wrong spot, why are you doing veneers?” he asks. “If there is no restorative need, there’s no size discrepancy, no unsightly old restorations, there’s no previous fracture traumas…they just maybe have teeth in the wrong position. No one should be prepping those for veneers anymore. That’s ortho[dontics]. You may do something conservative; you align, do some whitening, and you’re done. Then maybe a little bit of bonding, so I guess the third way [to practice MID] is that you may not need any restoration on the front end when you’re doing it for a cosmetic case like that.”

The materials, software, and number of options available for clear aligner therapy have exploded over the past decade. While many GPs may not have been interested or confident in straightening their patients’ teeth in the past, today they are doing themselves and their patients a disservice if they don’t offer some type of clear aligner therapy. Clinicians must understand the idea of a multidisciplinary mindset.

“Not every patient who comes in your door needs orthodontics. Let’s be clear,” Dr Rohde says. “But orthodontics should be part of your treatment planning, at least when considering something like occlusion. If you can look at a patient and go, here’s what’s going on, and you have a mindset that includes perio[dontal], restorative, ortho…if someone comes in with destructive occlusion because the teeth are not in the right position and you’re like, ‘Well, I guess I’ll just do a filling here and not consider ortho, or not treat that, or not make a recommendation,’ [then] yes, you’re failing that patient.”

Dental lasers have not eliminated the need fordentists to reach for their handy handpiece. In fact, some manufacturers were discredited a bit years ago by overpromising how they could end the need for anesthetic injections. No-drill dentistry had a nice ring to it, but the technology early on couldn’t deliver on all the hype.

Things have changed for the better and all-tissue lasers such as the Solea, the PerioLase MVP-7 from Millennium Dental Technologies, and the BIOLASE Waterlase iPlus Premier Edition are just a few of the available options that can indeed handle more procedures and usually do so with less trauma and faster healing.

“No one should be doing extension for prevention anymore,” Dr Rohde says, referring to the early dental practice of removing a large amount of tooth structure to allow for amalgam restorations. “You should be treating just the decay. And, worst case, any given tooth could have part filling, part preventive resin restoration, or part sealant all on the same molar. You’re just treating what needs to be treated and sealing it back up. I’d be so bold as to say no one should be doing extension for prevention anymore—no one should be cutting teeth unnecessarily.

“Now add the laser to it. The laser allows you to conservatively treat. It essentially removes decay and stops at that healthy enamel. It kills bacteria and removes all biomatter from the grooves for more adequate sealing. It’s also minimally invasive if you use a hard tissue laser such as Solea because you’re not injecting the patient. So again, minimally invasive doesn’t mean just the tooth. It means, what experience does the patient have?”

Over time, the advent of better bonding systems means clinicians can predictably bond, add to teeth, and maintain them in ways that produce long-lasting results. Improvements in materials science have led to better and stronger materials that don’t have to be as thick. Add in topical anesthetics and other new products that hygienists can give patients to keep them comfortable, including during minimum scaling and root planing. This can help patients avoid getting injections, yet another plus delivered by MID concepts.

 VOCO’s restorative materials focus on having toothlike properties and longevity. | Image Credit: © VOCO America

Previously, periodontal issues were heavily treated through integrating cutting edges, scraping teeth, and curetting diseased cellular epithelium, says Sanders, who added that those methods were a big focus for a long time.

“To me, minimally invasive periodontics started to see pivots when we integrated things such as growth factors like PRP [platelet-rich plasma] or PRF [platelet-rich fibrin], where now we’re leveraging the patient’s own body to help us with this,” she says. “There is an intervention, but that intervention is really leveraging the use of the host response, right? How is the body going to take its own cells and utilize that as scaffolding, etc? Which I love.

“That’s one piece to the puzzle. I think that really paved the way for periodontics to expand beyond scraping teeth. Patients don’t want flap surgeries anymore where they’re getting flipped open and then sewn shut. They don’t want gingival grafts with giant slices from the palate getting sewn into places. They want minimally invasive, and that terminology indicates to the patient that it’s likely going to be less painful. And minimally invasive also means that we’re going to be leveraging the patient’s own body in a lot of ways.”

Many products are helping deliver this form of care to patients, and Sanders has a few she believes dentists and hygienists should consider implementing.

Designs for Vision’s REVEAL utilizes a blue excitation headlight with specially filtered eyewear to provide hands-free vibrant fluorescence visualization in real time. This wearable fluorescence guide dentistry solution allows clinicians to visualize the byproducts of bacteria associated with caries, calculus, and peri-implantitis without the use of any pharmaceutical, chemical, or dye. Designs for Vision adds that REVEAL allows users to control and conform the complete removal of mature biofilm during prophylaxis.

Sanders says this technology has been used in the medical space for a long time with strong results during brain surgeries, foot surgeries for diabetics, and in other treatments where it’s important to remove unhealthy tissues while leaving behind as much healthy tissue as possible.

“If you’re removing healthy tissue, that is just far more work the body of a diabetic patient who may have delayed wound healing or immunocompromised status is going to have to do, right?” she explains. “So, then we take this technology and let’s go ahead and plop it into dentistry. What we’re doing in dentistry is we’re utilizing this technology to see infected tissue. We’re also using this technology to see calculus. Now the areas where the clinician is scaling are only those sites where we see calculus, but we’re leaving behind healthy tooth structures.”

This technology prevents hygienists from intentionally removing cementum, which is important to preserve so that you can get gum attachment for healing. “That REVEAL technology is really an interesting bridging of the gap between our health care colleagues and the dental colleagues in saying, ‘Hey, we’re going to take this minimally invasive case, and it’s going to allow us to target or be precise,’” Sanders says.

Another product that fits this mold is the Perio Protect noninvasive Perio Tray therapy that holds medication deep below the patient’s gums.

“This tray, when loaded with an appropriate medicament and seated in the patient’s mouth, pushes that medicament underneath the gum line area, and it pushes it such that now the gum tissue is in an interaction with that medicament,” adds Sanders, who says the product does wonders with wound healing and has led to several cases where bleeding scores have been reduced.

Probiotics is another area in which breakthroughs have shown promise in helping to maintain healthy flora in both the oral microbiome and the gut. StellaLife, with itsPre+Post+Probiotics Kit, and BioGaia are just 2 of many brands offering products designed to promote healthy gums and deliver a minimally invasive, preventive approach to both oral and overall health.

With so many technologies and techniques now available, clinicians can and should take a minimally invasive approach whenever possible. Researchers, manufacturers, and organizations such as the WCMID laid the groundwork decades ago, and today’s patients are seeing and feeling the benefits.

When these patients get more involved with their health and know more about what their dentist’s office is doing for them by delivering the best, most comfortable care, everyone wins. They’re more inclined to floss and brush better, maybe wear their Perio Protect trays or aligner trays more frequently, and certainly not be as afraid to see a dentist or hygienist who they know is taking steps to be minimally invasive with their care.

“Not only are the patients now kind of taking charge and being in control, but they’re also more comfortable,” Sanders says. “You remember [the dentist scene in] 

? We don’t want to do that. We don’t want to be that. We don’t want patients to sit down and say, ‘I hate going to the dentist.’ This is a huge opportunity [to change those perceptions].”

1. Coelho A, Amaro I, Iunes T, et al. CAMBRA protocol efficacy: a systematic review and critical appraisal. 

2. Elsenpeter R. Do patients less harm. Dental Products Report. 2021;55(4):24. https://www.dentalproductsreport.com/view/do-patients-less-harm

Articles

A look at the evolution of minimally invasive dentistry, and the products, technologies, and techniques behind it.

The Modern State of Minimal Dentistry

Product Innovation, Partnerships, and Increased Revenue Power Planet DDS to a Strong 2024 | Image Credit: © Planet DDS

Planet DDS has had a strong 2024 in terms of product developments, partnerships, and revenue, the cloud-based dental practice management solutions company announced this week.

With several landmark accomplishments this year—from new product improvements and partnerships to fast-growing revenue and more—Planet DDS is poised for another record-breaking year.

“2024 has been a banner year for us, with our sights set on accelerating the future of dental practice management,” Eric Giesecke, CEO of Planet DDS, says in a press release. “We’re going beyond innovating our technology—we’re reshaping the dental industry as we know it by setting a new standard of how DSOs [dental service organizations] work and delivering a roadmap to the future. These key milestones have proven our cloud-based technology is driving the industry forward.”

One of the standout achievements of 2024 was the launch of DentalOS, the industry’s first dental operating system, designed to address the pressing issues facing DSOs. According to Planet DDS, many traditional dental software solutions are broken—with inefficiencies, data silos, and a lack of flexibility that limits DSOs’ ability to scale and adapt. DentalOS is designed to fix this by creating a customizable ecosystem through its open API platform, enabling seamless integration of third-party software and allowing DSOs to tailor-make their technology stack. This approach eliminates the restrictive nature of closed, proprietary systems and supports DSOs in achieving scalable, future-proof operations, the company states. In addition, Planet DDS released a comprehensive DentalOS eBook that introduces the new platform and its key benefits.

Unveiled Comprehensive and Open API Program:

 Planet DDS introduced its new open API program, to help DSOs enhance interoperability between tools, provide workflow customization, and improve security. Because the program allows DSOs and partners to seamlessly integrate various applications and facilitates synchronized data sharing, DSOs can realize new operational efficiencies.

Enhanced Denticon and Added New Features:

 launching a reimagined version that enhances practice management, patient communications, analytics, and marketing. 

In addition, the platform grew revenue by over 40% year over year, and the company announced that it recently surpassed $100 million in annual committed revenue. Planet DDS became the first dental practice management solution provider to achieve SOC 2 Type 2 certification across all its products. It also launched Denticon’s single sign-on (SSO) feature to streamline access and improve security.

: The new partnership with VideaHealth makes Planet DDS the first dental imaging solution provider to integrate with all 3 major artificial intelligence (AI) companies—Overjet, Pearl, and VideaHealth. This integration is designed to enable dental practices to choose their preferred provider and leverage AI for enhanced imaging capabilities and improved diagnostic accuracy.

Revenue Cycle Management (RCM) Enhancements

: In partnership with DentalXChange, Planet DDS integrated the XConnect APIs earlier this year into Denticon to streamline insurance processes. The enhanced RCM workflow improves efficiency in claims processing, eligibility verification, and payment posting.

New Programs Introduced to Support Dental Groups of All Sizes:

: Notable DSOs, including SEVA Dental, Smile Doctors, DecisionOne Dental, Five Points Dental Specialists, and Chord Specialty Dental Partners, have all adopted Planet DDS solutions this year. Smile Doctors has surpassed 400 locations using Cloud 9, while DecisionOne Dental and Chord Specialty Dental Partners have implemented Denticon and Cloud 9 across their practices, the company says. Additionally, Imagen Dental Partners, a dental partnership organization with over 100 locations, recently joined as a new customer.

New Launchpad Program For Emerging Groups Scale

: Planet DDS unveiled its Launchpad Program, a unique initiative designed to democratize access to cloud solutions for emerging dental and orthodontic groups looking to scale and grow. Available to new customers, eligible groups have access to the best-in-class practice management and imaging solution features at 80% savings, plus education and support from a team of growth experts.

Additionally, Planet DDS has received significant recognition for its sustained growth trajectory. The company climbed to No. 1599 on the Inc. 5000 list, a significant leap from No. 3376 in 2023 and No. 2489 in 2022, and earned the #3 spot for Fastest Growing Medium Sized Companies with the 

 For the second consecutive year, Planet DDS has earned a spot on the prestigious 2024 Deloitte Technology Fast 500 list, securing spot #352 with a 333% growth rate over the past 3 years.

The company remains committed to transforming the dental industry with cloud-based solutions that drive growth, efficiency, and improved patient outcomes.

With 2025 approaching, the cloud-based dental practice management solutions company celebrates significant achievements and key milestones.

Product Innovation, Partnerships, and Increased Revenue Power Planet DDS to a Strong 2024

Josh DeVries is the CEO and co-founder of Intiveo, patient engagement software designed to empower dental practices to enhance patient experiences. He is also the co-host for The Patient Blueprint Experience podcast. For 15 years, he’s worked with healthcare professionals to improve processes and drive efficiency. Through his experience, Josh recognized there were a lot of patient communication services on the market, however none of them focused on healthcare specialists where patient communication is the most critical to their treatment's success.

5 Trends Your Dental Practice Needs to Know in 2025 | Image Credit: © Iryna - stock.adobe.com/generated with AI

As 2024 draws to a close, many dental practices are looking ahead to the future and what 2025 will bring. The world is full of new innovations, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and other technologies, and consumers and businesses alike are considering ethical and logistical questions about how they consume and operate. For dental and oral surgery practices everywhere, big questions about how they run their practices, how they manage their staff, and whether to invest in technology have to be answered.

While no one source has exactly the right answer for every dental or oral surgery practice, we can make some key predictions about what trends we can expect to see impact our industry in 2025.

Like many other industries, dental and oral surgeons are also embracing AI. We will continue to see 

 both clinical practice and the patient experience in these areas, among others: diagnosis, image analysis, treatment planning, patient management and engagement and operational tasks (like inventory management).

People are getting more and more used to highly personalized customer engagement that supports them throughout their whole experience. They are looking for easy ways to receive instructions and reminders, fill out forms, and give feedback.

Cosmetic dentistry is increasing in popularity and leading the way when it comes to innovation. In fact, a recent study indicates that this market is projected to experience an annual growth rate of 7.1%. The top ways people are embracing innovative cosmetic dentistry are through digital smile design, gum contouring, teeth-whitening w/nanotechnology, ultra-thin and durable veneers, and by exploring more biocompatible materials.

#4 Dental Service Organization (DSO) Sales Increase

 indicates that the market will be worth $454.7 billion by 2030, for an impressive growth rate of 15.8% a year. Understanding this, we know that it’s likely that in 2025 we will continue to see an increase in DSO sales. 

 indicated staffing recruitment was their top challenge, and we expect this to stay true in 2025. While the staffing shortage may not be solvable overnight, mitigating the effects of the staffing shortage is possible. Practices will need to leverage digital dentistry and other technologies that can help their staff save time while still ensuring their patients’ expectations are being met.

Next year promises to be an exciting, challenging year for dental and oral surgery practices everywhere. Whether you’re considering implementing AI at your practice, or selling to a DSO, there are big questions to consider and it will be important to keep a pulse on what’s to come.

Intiveo is a preferred communication partner for oral surgeons and other dental specialists. The company helps over 14,000 providers communicate the important requirements of their procedures to over 18 Million patients annually.

CEO and co-founder of Intiveo shares his thoughts on what the dental industry can expect in the new year.

5 Trends Your Dental Practice Needs to Know in 2025

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.

Editor's Note: This article was originally published in December 2020. When the author wrote it, the pandemic was on the minds of eveyone. As we approach the holiday season this year, however, many of the points she made are very much a part of our lives.

It's always important to stay as positive and grateful as positive and Thanksgiving week is a good time to be extra mindful of this.

Thanksgiving is over and I have a burning question for you. What are you grateful for? This question has more importance than in previous years. Why? Because the pandemic has rocked so many of our worlds. In this time where we are challenged more than ever, it is important to look at what you are grateful for.

I have coworkers who are better than family

I feel safe going into our dental practice

I feel that I can trust my dentist to not cut corners on safety

I have a home and can go outside whenever I want

My kids are managing and dealing with the topsy turvey world we are living in

I have learned new computer skills—Call me the Zoom whiz

I am not wasting money on going out to eat or buying things I do not need

I see my family on Zoom every Sunday for a family dinner

People that I have not talked to in years are reentering my life via the phone

My spouse is being incredibly careful to not put us at risk for COVID-19

I have learned what boredom is—Never had time for that before

I am more creative with finding things to do with my time

I appreciate the grocery store workers and the Amazon truck drivers

I appreciate the doctors and medical personnel who took care of me during my illness

People are more friendly when I am out on my walks

Dogs have become more like family for so many people

People made me soup when I was sick last month

People have stepped up to help me when I ask for help

Time with my family is more valuable than ever before

Keeping my warped sense of humor has helped during challenging times

These are the things that come to mind when I think about what is important in my life. What about you? What are you grateful for? Is it people? Health? Your job? Your work family? The next step is, let the people in your life know how you feel about them. If you appreciate someone, tell them. Tell them now. Time is a precious commodity. Life happens very quickly. You may think that you have all the time in the world to tell someone how you are really feeling…and then you find out you were terribly mistaken. Life can and does change in a split second.

Try living your life without regrets. Do not feel that you should have done something or said something that you did not. Instead, live in the moment. Today, I was shoveling snow. We got hit hard here in Cleveland, Ohio. I shoveled for 2 hours to move 12 to 18 inches of snow off my driveway. I did not even get halfway done before I gave up. A truck has been stuck blocking my driveway for the past 6 hours. They cannot move. They are waiting for a tow. I offered food and drink, but they declined. If they had asked to use the bathroom, I would not have said no. Even with a pandemic, how can you say no to the basic needs? Luckily, they never asked.

While shoveling, I saw a young 21-year-old college kid get stuck in someone’s driveway. I walked down and helped dig him out. He was delivering food with Door Dash. What struck me was how this kid could not believe that I was helping to dig him out. He was stuck in the driveway and then in the street as the city had not plowed. When he pulled away, I told him to pay it forward. That is the only way that he can repay me for helping him…by helping someone else.

This is why it is important to look at what you have in your life that you are grateful for. It puts life in perspective. Even though this has been a rough year for so many of us, there are still things worth being grateful for. Please give it some thought.

Remember, you are not alone. We are in this together. Things are going to get better. Do not give up hope. And, most importantly, do not forget what you are grateful for.

Happy Holidays! Also, wear a mask and stay safe!

Taking a few moments to think about all the things worth being grateful for right now can help put a challenging year in perspective.

What are you grateful for?

OrthoNu has extended its product portfolio to include the new Oral Relief Kitz™ product line designed to alleviate common discomforts experienced by orthodontic patients.

The company, a pioneer in orthodontic care innovations, unveiled the new products during an exclusive webinar earlier this month, where industry leaders gathered to learn how these innovations can redefine patient care in orthodontics.

The Oral Relief Kitz product line includes 4 innovative, patient-centric solutions aimed at improving the orthodontic treatment experience. These products complement OrthoNu’s well-established Tweakz™ toolkit, introduced last year, which has already changed how orthodontic emergencies can be managed. Sima Yakoby Epstein, DMD, CEO and Founder of OrthoNu, emphasized the significance of this launch.

“The Oral Relief Kitz products, alongside our Tweakz tools, mark the creation of a completely new category in orthodontic care. Never before has the orthodontic industry focused on solutions that are exclusively designed for patients to ensure better health outcomes,” she says in a press release. “These innovations are a vital part of improving the patient experience but also helping doctors optimize the efficiency of their practices by reducing unnecessary in-office emergencies.”

In April of this year, the team at OrthoNu unveiled 4 additional products aimed at alleviating the discomfort commonly associated with wearing braces or aligners. From soothing irritated gums to providing instant relief for achy teeth, these innovations aim to enhance the orthodontic journey for both young and adult patients, the company stated then.

Chillin' Strips formulated with ingredients specifically chosen to soothe inflamed gums and comfort sensitive enamel. They are designed to provide relief while still maintaining a pleasant flavor for patients.

Made with natural ingredients, ComfortTape reportedly provides instant relief for irritated teeth and gums caused by braces or aligners. Its ease of use makes it a go-to solution, and its compatibility with mouth guards adds to its appeal.

Mouth-Aid—This innovative formulation targets irritation in the mouth, including inner lips and cheeks, providing relief for orthodontic patients. Its functional application ensures targeted relief where it's needed, enhancing the orthodontic care routine.

Unlike silicone chews that can harbor bacteria, OrthoChewz are made with beneficial ingredients to maintain oral health. Offering relief from discomfort and dry mouth, these chews dissolve in the mouth, providing long-lasting comfort and a mint flavor for taste.

The latest Oral Relief Kitz products are designed to provide immediate relief for patients experiencing pain or discomfort during treatment, keeping patients comfortable at home and reducing the need for last-minute visits, the company states.

“We are committed to advancing the science of oral health in a way that not only benefits the patient, but also supports the orthodontist in their mission to streamline care and improve efficiency,” adds Dr Epstein. “With these new products, doctors can focus on in-office care, knowing that their patients are well cared for outside of office visits.”

Looking to the future, OrthoNu states plans to continually develop products focused on patient care that will further solidify its status as a leader in orthodontic innovations. OrthoNu is widely distributed in the US and is planning to expand distribution to the UK and Europe in 2025.

The company’s new Oral Relief Kitz offering alleviates common discomforts experienced by orthodontic patients.

Orthodontic Care Company OrthoNu Launches New Product Line

’s Product Solution Center Returns at the 100th GNYDM

The 100th Annual Greater New York Dental Meeting (GNYDM) returns next week as one of the largest dental congresses in the United States convenes at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York. The meetings kick off on Nov. 29, 2024 with the exhibit dates set for Dec. 1-4.

 is partnering with GYDM to provide continuing education courses in the exhibit hall. The daily, 30-minute sessions begin on Sunday, the first day the exhibit hall opens.

 for the 2024 Product Solution Center at the Greater New York Dental Meeting. Enjoy eight 30-minute accredited sessions each day of the show, covering exciting topics presented by top minds from across the industry. Check out the latest course lineup and pre-register for the show today by 

. No pre-registration is required for these courses.

At last year’s meeting, GNYDM hosted over 30,000 healthcare professionals featuring over 1,600 technical exhibits demonstrating the newest dental technology. This is the only major dental meeting with no pre-registration fee.

The GNYDM has again planned an unparalleled educational program featuring some of the most highly regarded educators in the field of dentistry. There is a choice of full-day seminars, half-day seminars, and hands-on workshops that are sure to excite and educate even the most discriminating dentist and staff.

Attendees are urged to partake in the many educational programs and to visit the exhibitors on the expansive exhibit floor. An integral part of the experience for attendees is to interact with the over 600 exhibitors who are there to demonstrate and teach you about new products and technology from around the world. Attendees have the opportunity to touch, use and compare the newest materials and technology.

 will have a booth on the trade show floor, so stop by Booth #2521. The DPR Team will be reporting on GNYDM and filming videos with the speakers from the 2024 Product Solution Center.

For 2024, GNYDM is offering a greatly expanded World Implant Expo, Annual Global Orthodontic Conference, 3D Printing Conference, Oral Health Symposium, Pediatric Summit, Women's Program, Public Health Program, Special Needs programs and Dental Laboratory Education. Staff members can also take advantage of the many educational opportunities available. This will enable the dental team to excel in delivering the finest dental care in the world.

The event is made possible by the assistance of many volunteers from 2 sponsoring societies—the Second District Dental Society and the New York County Dental Society. Every year, these men and women help make this meeting a success by taking time from their private practices to assist attendees and answer their questions throughout the meeting.

It’s a good time to bring your family and staff to the GNYDM to see New York City during the holiday season.

Each year many leading dental manufacturers introduce new products and technologies at the GNYDM. So, make sure to stay tuned for information on product launches that will be published in DPR and online at 

The GNYDM returns next week at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York, with the Exhibit Hall Open Dec. 1-4.

Dental Products Report’s Product Solution Center Returns at the 100th GNYDM

Registration is now open for the 2025 Chicago Dental Society (CDS) Midwinter Meeting. One of the biggest dental shows each year, the highly anticipated dental meeting attracts tens of thousands of dental professionals each February from across the country and worldwide. The CDS Midwinter Meeting will once again be held in Chicago at McCormick Place West from February 20-22, 2025.

“When I was scouting for the Midwinter Meeting, I wanted to find the most engaging speakers, topics and exhibitors,” 2025 CDS President Denise Hale, DDS, says in a press release. “It’s not just dentists at our meeting. A lot of staff and hygienists come too, and that is super important. As much as the dentist is the head of the team, we couldn’t do anything without our staff, so we want to make sure the Midwinter Meeting provides value to the entire dental team.”

In its 160th year, the 2025 Midwinter Meeting will once again strive to deliver on its reputation as the place to access the best continuing education courses available, test drive the latest dental innovations in an exhibit hall that features hundreds of companies, and enjoy fun networking opportunities and events – all in 1 convenient location. The February meeting will provide attendees with more than 240 CE-accredited courses, including 46 interactive hands-on workshops, 34 free courses as well as a new partnership with The Pankey Institute, a renowned institution for dental education and professional development. The Pankey Institute will provide a 3-day course, “The Pankey Institute Essentials 1: Aesthetic & Functional Treatment Planning,” which will be held from 7:30 am to 4:30 pm on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, February 20-22, 2025.

“We’re thrilled to partner with The Pankey Institute this year to bring more high-quality continuing education opportunities to Midwinter Meeting attendees. It’s a natural fit for the leader in dental continuing education to collaborate with such a respected institution in dental education,” adds CDS Director of Scientific Programs Cheryl Mora, DDS. “The Pankey Institute will present a comprehensive 3-day course focused on examination, precise diagnosis, and treatment planning across 5 critical areas: esthetics, occlusion, restorative techniques, biological considerations, and patient-centered care. This program is ideal for both early career and experienced dentists, providing 24 hours of CE while covering practical topics that attendees can immediately implement in their practices.”

In addition to the tens of thousands of dental professionals, the Midwinter Meeting will also convene over 400 hundred companies, from large brands to small, up-and-coming companies, the CDS states. The 2025 Midwinter Meeting will host more than 37 first-time exhibitors who are brand new to the annual event. The exhibit hall will be full of energy as attendees explore aisle after aisle of back-to-back companies showcasing their latest products, technologies, services and innovations. Dental teams will be provided with the opportunity to explore, touch and test cutting-edge innovations to see how new technologies may help provide a better patient experience, optimize their practice or solve an unmet need for the practice.

“The CDS team works extremely hard every year to bring the Midwinter Meeting to all dental professionals and the industry, which results in the premier event of the year. For 159 years, the CDS volunteer and staff team has created the best event experience in the dental industry,” says CDS CEO Heather Nash. “They are going to do it again for the 160th Midwinter Meeting and include a few new innovative ideas. Where else can you find hundreds of the best speakers and clinicians, tens of thousands of peers and hundreds of exhibiting companies all in 1 convenient location?”

Returning to the Midwinter Meeting is Yoga for Midwinter Mindfulness, the Dental Student Networking Event, the Early Career Dentist Networking Event, Sips, Suds & Sales, and the Keynote Session, featuring 3 Michelin-starred Alinea Chef Grant Achatz. The 2025 Midwinter Meeting will debut new events, such as the Garrett’s Popcorn ‘Pop-In’ in the exhibit hall from 2 to 2:30 pm on Thursday, February 20, the Friday Night Bash: A Night of Beats & Bites from 7 to 9 pm on Friday, February 21, as well as the Smile & Shine Hygienist Luncheon from 11:30 to 1:30 pm on Saturday, February 22. In addition to the Midwinter Meeting-exclusive events, general networking opportunities will be held onsite at McCormick Place and other great venues across the City of Chicago.

Attendees can register now for the 160th Midwinter Meeting at 

 for more information on this year’s events, registration fees, course program, list of exhibitors and other pertinent Midwinter Meeting information.

The historic 160th Midwinter Meeting returns to Chicago, Feb. 20-22, 2025, at McCormick Place West.
 


Registration is Now Open for CDS’ 160th Midwinter Meeting

The new Panthera Fusion BarTM is the first splitting protocol on the market that allows in-lab milling of the overlay while Panthera manufactures the implant bar. It is designed to deliver unrivaled strength and durability for restorations in zirconia, PMMA, or any other material.

Featuring an engineered shape, form and function based on dental science, the Panthera Fusion Bar is a fusion of a unique low-profile implant bar with a seamless, synchronized workflow. While Panthera mills the bar, you can simultaneously mill the superstructure in zirconia or any other material. The result is the PFBTM effect, states Panthera Dental.

The solution’s benefits include implant compatibilities (700+ analog / 130+ digital workflow) and splitting files made easy—ready to mill .STL overlay.


Guarantee a perfect seating position with all the hygiene benefits.


Design of the bar will always follow your soft tissues, setup and implant position; precisely designed to replicate to your patients’ planned intaglio contours.


Cement gap is always constant and within the bar profile.


The implant bar and overlay splitting protocol ensures a straight milling line without undercut that facilitate your production and insertion. The cement gap is controlled on the bar and not on the overlay.


Panthera’s proprietary technology ensures that every detail of your final setup (physical or digital) is preserved for an exact copy.


Temporary or final prosthesis. Users can choose zirconia or printed or milled PMMA. There’s even an option to have Panthera mill it for you.

Cantilever tests showed that the fracture resistance of the zirconia supported by a titanium implant bar was 30% higher than that of unsupported zirconia, according to Panthera Dental.

Providing a synchronized workflow, the Panthera Fusion Baris designed for less time on overall production and more time for the art of the restoration.

Designed to deliver unrivaled strength and durability for restorations, the splitting protocol means less time on overall production and more time for the art of the restoration.

Panthera Dental Introduces New Panthera Fusion Bar

3M™ Clinpro™ Clear Fluoride Treatment is a water-based, rosin-free formula that’s ready to apply and provides protection to enamel and dentin surfaces. This ﬂuoride treatment features a ready-release formula that enables eﬀective ﬂuoride uptake with a minimum contact time of just 15 minutes, making it easy for your patients to say “yes”.


Complete the form below to download the Whitepaper.